Real Secrets of Money Podcast

What is estate planning really about? After a season spent discussing wills, probate, powers of attorney, beneficiary designations, and trusts, our co-hosts step back and tackle the bigger question that sits underneath every estate plan: If something happened to you tomorrow, who would need money — and how much? In this season finale, Jeff and Andy explore why estate planning is ultimately about p...

Trusts are one of the most misunderstood tools in estate planning. Some people assume they’re only for the wealthy. Others think they’re overly complicated or only necessary for large estates. The truth is, trusts are simply tools — and when used correctly, they can provide flexibility, privacy, and control over how your assets are managed and distributed. In this episode, our co-hosts break down...

In this episode of the Real Secrets of Money Podcast, our co-hosts clear up misconceptions on how assets actually transfer after death. You’ll learn which assets bypass probate entirely, how beneficiary designations work, why life insurance and retirement accounts transfer differently, and the costly mistake people make when naming their estate as a beneficiary Plus, we explain how proper setup ca...

What happens to your finances if you’re still alive, but unable to manage them Who pays your bills? Who has access to your accounts? And how much control do they really have? In this episode, our hosts break down financial power of attorney: what it is, how it works, and why it’s one of the most important (and often overlooked) parts of an estate plan. You’ll learn what a financial power of attorn...

Estate planning isn’t just about what happens after you die. It’s also affects happens if you’re still alive but unable to speak for yourself. In this episode, our hosts walk through one of the most overlooked and most important parts of any estate plan: healthcare directives and medical power of attorney. What would happen if you were in a hospital and couldn’t communicate your wishes? Who would...

What happens if you die without a will? It’s more common than you might think, and the consequences can be bigger than most people realize. In this episode, Jeff Lehman and co-host Andy Cowan break down what it really means to die "intestate" and how it can leave some of the most important decisions of your life in the hands of the court. Tune in now to understand what’s at stake — and w...

A will is one of the most important pieces of an estate plan — but it’s not the whole story. In this episode, our hosts break down what a will actually does, how it works, and what happens after it’s put into motion. From distributing your assets to navigating the probate process, we walk through the realities most people don’t fully understand. We also cover some key considerations, including why...

In this episode of The Real Secrets of Money Podcast , we're joined by Senior Director of Sales Andy Cowan to kick off the Estate Planning season by breaking down what an estate plan really is and why it matters for people at every stage of life. You’ll learn why estate planning is about more than just money, the common myths that keep people from getting started, and how even a simple plan c...

You’ve worked hard to get what you have — your home, your car, your valuables — and protecting those assets is key to lasting financial security. In this episode of the Real Secrets of Money Podcast, we’re exploring how to safeguard what’s yours through homeowners, renters, and auto insurance. We’ll break down why asset protection matters, what kind of coverage you really need, and practical steps...

Life is unpredictable, but your finances don’t have to be. In this episode of the Real Secrets of Money Podcast, we explore how to build a strong financial safety net! Learn why an emergency fund is the foundation of protection, how to combine savings and insurance for comprehensive coverage, and why financial protection deserves a permanent spot in your budget. If you want to face life’s surprise...

Credit cards can be helpful tools — but they can also become one of the most expensive forms of debt if you’re not careful. With average interest rates now over 20%, carrying a balance can cost you more than you realize. In this episode, we explore the pitfalls of credit card debt and how to avoid them, tips to lower your balances and interest rates, and simple habits for responsible credit use. W...

Where do you even start when it comes to paying off debt? Well, in this episode, we’ll walk you through how to organize and prioritize your debts, the difference between the snowball and avalanche repayment methods, and how to set realistic goals you can actually stick to. Because debt doesn’t have to control your life — with the right plan in place, you can take steady steps toward freedom. Start...

Should you be saving for a rainy day, a dream vacation, or retirement? The answer: yes, to all. In this episode of the Real Secrets of Money Podcast, we break down the difference between short-term and long-term savings — and how to prioritize both. Learn how to balance today’s needs with tomorrow’s goals, set savings timelines that make sense, and choose the right account for each type of saving....

Want to save more money without giving up everything you love? In this episode, we break down smart, sustainable ways to boost your savings rate. You’ll learn how to automate your savings, reduce spending painlessly, and align your money with what really matters. No shame, no guilt — just simple, realistic strategies to help you reach your goals faster! --- Want to learn more? Visit RealSecretsOfM...

Freelancer? Contractor? Seasonal worker? If your income goes up and down, your budget needs to flex with it. In this episode, we explore how to budget confidently with inconsistent income. You’ll learn why you should budget based on your lowest monthly income, how to build a “bare-bones” budget for the lean months, how to create a buffer that smooths out financial ups and downs, how to prioritize...

The real secret to budgeting? Finding a system that actually works for you. In this episode, we explore the tools that can make your budgeting life easier, smarter, and more sustainable. Tune in for the best digital apps for budgeting, the benefits of spreadsheets and pen-and-paper tracking, and practical tips for choosing a system you’ll actually stick with Whether you're a spreadsheet super...

What happens if your income disappears before your bills do? In this episode of the Real Secrets of Money Podcast, we explore why disability insurance might be the most important financial protection you’ve never considered. Learn how it works, the difference between short– and long–term coverage, and what features to look for when choosing a plan that protects your most valuable asset — your payc...

Life insurance is a powerful tool to protect the people you love most. In this episode, we break down the fundamentals of life insurance: what life insurance is and why it matters; the key differences between term, whole, and universal life insurance; and how to figure out the right coverage for your goals and budget. If someone depends on your income, this episode is for you. Learn how to safegua...

Life is unpredictable, but your finances don’t have to be. In this episode of The Real Secrets of Money Podcast, we break down what financial protection really means and why it’s a critical part of your overall financial health.  Learn how to protect your income, your health, and your legacy from life’s unexpected curveballs. We’ll cover common misconceptions, real-world examples, and how financia...

Wondering what lenders are actually looking at when you apply for a loan? In this episode of the Real Secrets of Money Podcast, we break down the two key numbers that determine your borrowing power: your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) and your credit score. Learn how to calculate your DTI, what makes up a credit score, and what you can do right now to improve your standing — even while you’re still pa...

Think your loan’s only costing you your monthly payment? Think again. In this episode of the Real Secrets of Money Podcast, we break down the real cost of borrowing — interest, APR, compounding, and hidden fees — so you can stop overpaying and start making smart financial decisions. Whether it’s a credit card, car loan, or personal loan, this episode helps you understand the true price of debt—and...

Debt touches nearly every part of modern life — but how well do you actually understand it? In this episode, we break down the basics of debt: what debt really is, the difference between secured, unsecured, revolving, and installment debt, how interest works (and why it can make your debt grow faster than you expect), and why understanding your debt is the first step toward financial freedom   If...

In this episode of The Real Secrets of Money Podcast , we break down the different types of savings accounts, like traditional savings, high-yield accounts, money market accounts, and CDs, so you can choose the one that fits your financial goals. We also cover what features to look for in an account and how to match your savings strategy with the right tools! Whether you’re just starting an emerge...

Could you cover a $1,000 emergency expense without going into debt? If not, you’re not alone — 60% of Americans would struggle to do so. That’s why an emergency fund is essential. In this episode of The Real Secrets of Money Podcast , we cover why you need an emergency fund, how much to save for unexpected expenses, and practical tips to start building one today, even on a tight budget Don’t wait...

Saving money is the foundation of financial security and freedom from financial stress and anxiety. In this episode of The Real Secrets of Money Podcast , we explore why saving money is an essential habit, how it gives you financial power and the differences between short-term and long-term savings goals. If you’ve ever felt like saving is too hard, or something you’ll “get to later,” this episode...