The Financial Answer with Nathan O’Bryant

There’s no single definition of what makes a “great’ retirement plan. It’s a deeply personal season of life that can look wildly different for each person. In this episode, Nathan explores what retirement really means for different people and why your plan should reflect your personal vision. For some, retirement means constant travel, bucket-list adventures, and new hobbies. For others, it’s abou...

Today, we’re talking about Type A personalities. If you’re driven, competitive, and goal-oriented, then you’re likely part of the club that struggles during difficult markets. When things get tough, your instinct is to work harder, push more, and fix the problem. But, as Nathan reveals in this conversation, when it comes to investing, that instinct can sometimes backfire.   Here’s some of what we...

What drives your financial decisions: cold hard numbers, or the way you feel? In this episode, Nathan kicks off a financial book club series with a look at The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel, one of his favorite reads. This widely acclaimed book doesn’t just focus on dollars and decimals; it unpacks how emotions, personal history, and mindset shape the way we spend, save, invest, and plan fo...

When the market drops, anxiety at home may rise. In this episode, Nathan explores how couples can navigate fear, miscommunication, and different emotional reactions to investing during downturns. You’ll hear why involving both spouses in planning meetings makes a measurable difference in confidence and calm. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 💬 Why couples react differently to market...

Market headlines are screaming and your portfolio is bouncing around. You’re tempted to “do something,” but what actually makes sense when volatility kicks in? In this episode, Nathan breaks down four practical strategies for navigating downturns without losing your cool (or your long-term plan). If you’re feeling shaken by the market dip or wondering what to do the next time one rolls around, we’...

April Fool’s Day is all about jokes and pranks, but when it comes to retirement planning, getting fooled can cost you real money. Today, we’re uncovering the beliefs that fool retirees and pre-retirees into making bad financial moves. We’ll cover some of the most common myths that can derail your retirement plans and explain why they might not be as true as they seem. Here are some of the common b...

Ever wonder what other people talk about with their financial advisors? A new survey of nearly 400 experienced advisors reveals the biggest concerns, challenges, and financial goals their clients are facing today. From retirement planning to healthcare costs to working longer than expected, we’re breaking down the key takeaways and how they compare to what we see in our own client conversations....

Valentine’s season is all about love, but let’s be honest, money plays a huge role in any relationship. Whether you’ve been together for decades or are just starting out, financial stress can put a strain on even the strongest partnerships. So, how do you talk about money without killing the romance? In today’s episode, we’re looking at the questions every couple should ask about finances and reti...

The day President Trump took office, he announced plans to implement a 25 percent tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada. Additional tariff conversations have exploded since that day. How might this impact your personal finances and the economy? In this episode, we’ll take a closer look at the backstory of tariffs - what they are, why governments impose them, and the historical context of them. We...

Inflation has been a hot topic in recent years and continues to be as we navigate through 2025. With rising prices affecting everything from healthcare to everyday expenses, its effect on long-term financial strategies is arguably more significant than ever. In this episode, we’ll explore how to adjust your retirement strategy to stay ahead. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: How infl...

Brrr, it’s cold out there! Winter has a lot of people thinking about warmer weather. For some, that just means an annual vacation down south. But for certain retirees, they choose to live elsewhere through the brunt of winter, becoming “snowbirds.” Is snowbird life for you? Join Nathan as he discusses the factors that drive people into the snowbird lifestyle, how remote work plays a role in doing...

Is rebalancing your portfolio a December tradition, a January jumpstart, or something triggered by a big life event or even the economy? Let’s explore the when, why, and how of rebalancing. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What is rebalancing and why it’s important. How life events can trigger a need to rebalance your portfolio. What is threshold rebalancing? When market conditions...

Did you know most Americans retire earlier than planned? This is often due to unexpected health issues, job changes, or financial surprises. These challenges can force people out of work early, leaving them unprepared for decades of retirement. In this episode, we’ll explore recent research highlighting the importance of planning for early retirement, even if it’s not in your current plans. Here’s...

Election season has officially wrapped up, and with the results in, we now have a clearer picture of what the future may hold. In today’s episode, Nathan and Marc dive into several important topics that could be shaped by the new administration. Listen in as they discuss the potential extension of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, government spending and tariffs, and how the outcome of presidential elect...

Whether you’re anticipating a year-end bonus this December, recently received an inheritance, or even won the lottery (hey, we’re all allowed to dream), figuring out what to do with a large financial windfall can feel overwhelming. No matter how you’ve come into this newfound wealth, it’s important to approach it thoughtfully. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Don’t rush your decisio...

Wondering if dividend investing is still the best approach for your retirement? Based on a recent article , we dive into what incidental income is and how it may change your strategy around dividends. Nathan talks about how it generates cash flow from portfolio turnover rather than relying solely on dividends.  Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: How incidental income compares to divid...

The financial landscape is changing rapidly, and if you’re focused on retirement, these shifts can’t be ignored. In today’s episode, we break down the trends that will define the rest of 2024 and their implications for your retirement plan.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Nathan’s big getaway. Market volatility and how much an election changes that. Shifts in housing and the real...

Retirement planning as a couple can come with its share of challenges. You aren’t planning for the financial future of just one person, but two! Often, each person comes with their own set of fears, feelings, and feedback. In today’s podcast, Nathan delves into why retirement planning should be a team effort and how couples can work together to avoid common pitfalls.   Here’s some of what we discu...

As we celebrate National Financial Planning Month, there's no better time to take control of your financial future. In today’s podcast, Nathan discusses the ins and outs of building a personalized financial plan. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your strategy, Nathan's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to secure their financial future.   Here’s some of what we discuss...

Recently, the IRS provided some much-needed clarity on the Secure Act changes, specifically regarding Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). In today’s podcast, Nathan breaks down these updates and explains their implications for your financial strategy. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: An overview of the Secure Act. Clarity on the RMD rules. The impact on your financial plan. Marke...

Market volatility can be a nerve-wracking experience for any investor. Recent fluctuations have left some questioning the future of their investments. Nathan outlines which crucial strategies to follow in order to help you manage your investments, no matter how turbulent the times. From staying invested to rebalancing your portfolio, these tips are designed to keep you on track toward your financi...

In the ever-evolving landscape of financial products, BlackRock has recently introduced a stock ETF with a 100% downside hedge. This announcement has generated a buzz among investors, but what does it really mean? In our latest podcast, Nathan breaks down the complexities of this new offering and provides crucial insights for investors.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Understandi...

As we navigate through the year, the economic and political landscape remains a topic of concern and speculation. Are there still predictions of a recession looming over us? If so, how can you shore up your financial position, no matter what the future may hold?   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Reduce your debt. Stress-test your finances. Boost emergency savings. Stay informed abo...

Should you get into cryptocurrency? Cryptocurrency has been a hot topic for years, often seen as the Wild West of the financial world. However, recent developments suggest that this once-fringe investment is moving into the mainstream. One of the most significant milestones is the SEC's approval of a spot for Ethereum as an ETF. Nathan shares how he views this form of investing and how it may or m...

In this special Father's Day episode, Nathan dives into classic “dadisms” to draw out valuable financial lessons from them. We discuss the importance of avoiding knee-jerk financial decisions, understanding the true weight of financial burdens, and the dangers of chasing that "better parking spot" in your investment portfolio.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Dad joke, “Do I need...