The Financial Answer with Nathan O’Bryant

Are you guilty of putting all your eggs in one financial basket? The latest episode of our podcast delves into the critical topic of investment diversification. We discuss everything from common mistakes Nathan sees to historic examples of when the financial bubble burst. What does true diversification look like and how can you achieve it in your portfolio?   Here’s some of what we discuss in this...

While the stretch IRA has been gone for a few years now, a new tweak in the rules has added some confusion. On today’s episode, we discuss what this may mean for inherited IRAs and look at a recent article from CNBC to break it down. Currently, there is a 10-year rule to withdraw from an inherited IRA account, but the IRS is allowing a penalty relief in 2024 to certain heirs considered “non-eligib...

Are you ready for a reality check when it comes to retirement? Today we wade through the myths and truths of post-career life, where the expectations of endless cruises clash with the reality of budgeting for healthcare. Learn why setting realistic goals and being adaptable are the keys to a successful retirement.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Life happens. Be ready to adjust....

It’s almost derby time! But what does it take to take home the crown? On today’s show, we talk about the things you’ll want to keep in mind to win big when it comes to your financial plan. From training for the moment in the best way to understanding the kinds of bets you’re making, what financial lessons can be learned from such a famous horse race?    Here’s some of what we discuss in this episo...

No matter what generation you’re in, you likely have questions when it comes to retirement. In this multi-part series we will discuss the different questions common among different generations. Today we talk through how to best prepare for that life transition if you are a Baby Boomer.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What are the big retirement questions Baby Boomers are asking?...

Sometimes technology and innovation can help simplify and streamline things, but other times it can cause more of a headache than before. Today, we talk about what can become more complex and what is improved when you introduce technology into your financial planning.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Can you Google it? When should you use robo-advisors? Online calculators are ever...

How have things changed since when your grandparents were planning for retirement? So many things have gone up in cost! Instead of pretending things are still like they used to be or avoiding the topic, it’s important to face some of these facts head-on. Listen in as we wrap up our conversation about how retirement planning can be harder than it used to be.     Here’s some of what we discuss in th...

We’ve all heard our parents or older generations say, “Well, back in my day…” Some things that were harder in the past have been eased with technology and other advances. But other things have become overcomplicated or more difficult. Today, we talk about the ways retirement planning has changed and potentially gotten more challenging than it used to be.     Here’s some of what we discuss in this...

We’re living in a fast-food world, but sometimes it’s worth waiting for the good stuff. Making financial sacrifices can be hard, but today we talk about when the delayed gratification is worth it. From saving for your future to having what you need in retirement, you’ll want to be strategic about your money.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Passing on the 401(k) match. Leveraging...

More and more people are getting an inheritance these days. In today's show, we answer some of the common questions people face when receiving, or planning on one day receiving, an inheritance. Hearing these questions may help you prepare ahead of time for a smooth transition of assets when the time comes.   Here are some of the questions we discuss in this episode: Should mom sign the house over...

As we near the holidays, you might be scrambling for last-minute gifts and preparing for a festive celebration. For many of us, the gifts in the stocking cover a range of everything from practical to absurd. Today, we talk through some of the fun financial things you might want to stuff in your metaphorical (or literal!) stocking.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What about crypto...

‘Tis the season for a bit of holiday cheer! What can we learn about financial planning from some classic Christmas songs? These tunes we sing along to every year carry some great metaphors and lessons if you know where to look. For instance, we all know Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer was made fun of and overlooked, but turned out to be a great asset on Christmas Eve. What kind of financial decisio...

Ready for an adventure? Sometimes climbing a mountain is full of adventure, and sometimes it’s more about being prepared. You have to get the proper gear, get used to using it, and practice before you summit a major mountain. Doing something step by step over time may be boring at times, but it helps you get to the goal. The same is true with saving for retirement.   Here’s some of what we discuss...

What can we learn about retirement planning from browsing the cereal aisle at the grocery store? We love finding relatable ways to teach about financial topics, so let’s scoop up a few bites of financial understanding on today’s show.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What in the financial world is hard to resist but not all that good for you? What seems good on the surface but isn...

It’s always better to learn from the mistakes of others so you don’t have to make them yourself. In this episode, we talk through some common financial mistakes people make and share what you can do to avoid them. Remember, thinking through these situations now can help you steer clear of costly problems down the line!   Here's what we discuss in this episode: Taking an early IRA withdrawal. Spend...

Let’s look at some of the hidden questions that come up when retirement planning. Whether you have put them off to the side or would rather focus on something else, all of these things are important components of your retirement plan. Talking through these questions with a financial advisor can help better position yourself in the long-run and cover you for what you need.   Here are the questions...

Radio talk show host turned TikTok user, Dave Ramsey, is known for doling out financial advice to a wide audience. Today, we talk through some quotes from Ramsey to see what Nathan thinks as a financial advisor. Be it investing from a place of knowledge to relying on delayed gratification to make decisions, there’s a lot we can learn from him. Ultimately though, you have to have a strategy and a p...

When we look toward the future, what’s ahead? Whether you take more of an optimistic or pessimistic view of things, it’s important to know what to expect. In this episode, we talk about what Americans may face when it comes to retiring in the years ahead. Listen in as we discuss Social Security, healthcare, tax rates and more.   Here’s what we discuss on today’s show: Social Security has been stro...

In a shocking turn of events, we’re going to spend some time bashing the Roth today. Inspired by an article we found on Yahoo Finance , Nathan shares his thoughts on a Roth. Is it really the right thing for you? Instead of basing your decisions on some one-size-fits-all financial advice, it’s important to consider your unique and personal financial situation.   Here’s what we talk about on today’s...

We’re back for another segment where we see what lessons we can learn from popular quotes. Join us as we delve into the world of fiction and explore the valuable financial lessons we can learn from the beloved character Ron Swanson, portrayed by Nick Offerman, in the iconic TV series “Parks and Recreation.”   Here are some key takeaways from this episode: Be cautious of financial advisors who may...

Welcome back to part two of our discussion on resolving financial tension between couples. In this episode, we'll explore five more common areas of financial strain: emergency fund size, charitable contributions, handling inheritances, insurance needs, and financial management style. Stay tuned to learn how advisors like Nathan work to resolve conflicts in these areas as they arise.     Here’s wha...

Money can't buy love, but it can certainly start some spicy debates between you and your better half. In this episode, we're digging into the financial face-offs that make Monopoly fights look like child's play and exploring some money minefields that can test even the most solid relationships. Listen in as we explore how to resolve some of the most common financial sources of tension between coup...

For many people, their 401(k) is one of their main investment vehicles. While it can be a fantastic choice, today we highlight the reasons why it might not be the right fit for everyone. There are times when you might not want to invest in a 401(k) or invest as much into it.   Here are the reasons we talk through on today’s show: Are you worried about having enough in your retirement account? (4:2...

When you have a party, you want it to be a success! A party should be full of fun, joy, and festivity! In fact, Nathan just celebrated 20 years with his clients with a party. But what ruins a party? Things like procrastination and poor planning can be a recipe for disaster. On today’s show we talk about the bad money habits that could spoil the party that is your retirement.   Here are the bad hab...

Following the wedding of Nathan’s son, we wanted to discuss the many things retirement planning and wedding planning have in common. From financial management in the planning process to preparing for the needs and wants of multiple people, there’s a lot to think about. Everybody hopes it will be perfect, but you know that life is going to throw you curveballs. Having a plan will help you prepare a...