Keep it Simple

Most Popular Questions from Google

Welcome back to the Keep It Simple Podcast! In this episode, your host, Joey Bottinger, alongside Adam Morris and Janet Griffith, takes on the most popular investment questions searched on Google in 2024. From the complexities of cryptocurrency to the foundational steps of starting your investment journey, we break down essential financial concepts in an easy-to-understand way.

 

We discuss:

• Cryptocurrency Investing: Understanding the risks, practical platforms like Coinbase, and the emergence of Bitcoin ETFs.
   
• Getting Started with Investing: The importance of employer-sponsored retirement plans (401k), setting up brokerage accounts with traditional banks or online platforms like Robinhood, and the power of education.
   
• Initial Investment Amounts & Strategies: Prioritizing an emergency fund, consistent investing habits, and the benefits of diversified index funds over individual stocks.
   
• Passive Investing Explained: A deep dive into long-term investment strategies that aim to capture market growth rather than attempting to time the market.
   
• Calculating Return on Investment (ROI): A clear explanation of how ROI is determined, including the significance of total return versus price return.
   
• Choosing a Financial Advisor: Key factors like fiduciary duty, transparency in fees, and the critical role of trust and personal connection in a long-term financial relationship.
   
• Saving vs. Investing: Clarifying when to save (emergency fund, short-term goals) and when to invest (long-term growth).
   
• Retirement Savings Goals: Discussing how to forecast your future spending needs and the limitations of general rules like the 4% rule.

Tune in for practical advice that will help you "Keep It Simple" and navigate your financial future with confidence.

Keywords: investing, cryptocurrency, financial advisor, retirement planning, passive investing, ROI, budget, emergency fund, 401k, ETFs, Bitcoin, wealth management, personal finance, investment tips, asset builder, Keep It Simple podcast.

Connect with Us:

• Email your questions: podcast@assetbuilder.com
• Visit our website: assetbuilder.com
• Watch us on YouTube: Asset Builder YouTube Channel

Financial Wisdom from the Pros

What do Warren Buffett, John Templeton, and Dave Ramsey have in common? They're all quoted in this spontaneous Q&A session with the AssetBuilder advisor team. In this episode, host Adam Morris surprises Joey Badinger, Janet Griffith, and Tommy Williams with unscripted prompts on famous financial advice.

Tune in to hear the team reflect on timeless wisdom, modern market challenges, budgeting fears, and how lifestyle inflation can derail your plan. They also explain why even savvy investors may still benefit from a trusted advisor.

Links:

• Learn more about AssetBuilder: https://assetbuilder.com

• Email us your questions: podcast@assetbuilder.com

Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro & disclaimer
01:10 – Warren Buffett: Should you be “greedy when others are fearful”?
06:40 – “This time it’s different”: Is it ever true?
12:30 – Dave Ramsey’s take on budgeting
15:45 – Why clients resist budgeting and how we help
20:15 – Social pressure, lifestyle inflation, and Coachella tickets
26:00 – How to find meaning beyond money
28:00 – “Fire your advisor?” Why a fiduciary still matters
32:30 – Wrap-up: Consistency and psychological support

The Benefits of a Financial Plan

In this episode of Keep It Simple, host Joey Badinger is joined by Janet Griffith (Certified Financial Planner) and first-time guest Tommy Williams (Associate Advisor) from Asset Builder. Together, they break down the real-world benefits of having a financial plan — from achieving clarity and peace of mind to understanding spending goals and preparing for the unexpected. Whether you're planning for retirement, mapping out education savings, or just want to feel more confident about your next step, this conversation helps you understand how planning can shape your financial future. Topics include: How a financial plan gives you a 360° view of your finances Building confidence during market volatility Knowing when (and how) to spend or give Uncovering hidden risks and overlooked opportunities Why peace of mind is the ultimate outcome

🎧 Learn more at assetbuilder.com/podcast Timestamps

[00:34] What is a Financial Plan? [06:45] The Role of a CFP and What They Cover

[08:24] The 360° View: Bringing Everything Together

[12:11] Building Confidence and Reducing Stress

[15:00] Permission to Spend (and Give!)

[20:00] Staying Steady During Market Volatility

[22:20] Reality Check: Can You Retire When You Want?

[25:59] Uncovering Hidden Opportunities and Risks

[29:55] The Overarching Benefit: Peace of Mind [32:58] Where to Ask Questions or Learn More

Tax Strategies

Welcome to the Keep It Simple Podcast! In this episode, hosts Adam Morse, Janet Griffith, and Joey Badinger break down essential tax strategies to help you maximize savings and stay ahead in 2025.

Join us as we explore key tax planning techniques, including maximizing deductions and credits, understanding tax-efficient investing, and navigating the latest IRS updates. We discuss why proactive tax planning is crucial, how to optimize retirement contributions for tax benefits, and strategies for minimizing capital gains taxes.

Additionally, we provide practical tips on organizing tax documents, avoiding common filing mistakes, and leveraging tax-advantaged accounts to keep more of your hard-earned money. Whether you're a business owner, freelancer, or individual taxpayer, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you simplify tax season and make smarter financial decisions.

Connect with Team at Asset Builder: https://assetbuilder.com/.

Setting SMART Goals: A Guide to Financial Well-being in 2025

Welcome to the Keep It Simple Podcast! In this episode, hosts Joey Badinger, Adam Morris, and Janet Griffith dive into the essential topic of goal setting for the new year.

Join us as we explore the SMART goals framework—Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound—and discuss how to effectively apply these principles to your personal and financial goals. We share insights on why setting specific and measurable goals is crucial for success, the importance of aligning your goals with your values, and how to create a budget that works for you.

Additionally, we provide practical tips on paying off high-interest debt, the benefits of saving and investing monthly, and the significance of increasing your financial literacy. Whether you're looking to improve your financial situation or simply want to set meaningful goals for the year ahead, this episode is packed with valuable advice to help you stay motivated and on track.

Tune in to learn how to make 2025 your best year yet!

Topics Covered:

• The importance of goal setting

• Understanding SMART goals

• Strategies for paying off debt

• Creating and maintaining a budget

• The benefits of regular saving and investing

• Tips for increasing financial literacy

👉 Connect with Team at Asset Builder: https://assetbuilder.com/.

Market Volatility

In this episode of Keep It Simple, hosts Joey Badinger and Adam Morse dive into the recent fluctuations in the market.

Market volatility is an inherent aspect of investing, characterized by fluctuations in asset prices over short periods. These fluctuations can be unsettling for investors, often leading to emotional reactions that result in poor decision-making and potential financial losses. 

 

[00:02:04] Market reactions and investor psychology.

[00:05:12] Rates in Japan's impact.

[00:07:48] Margin loans and market dynamics.

[00:12:23] Panic and decision-making in finance.

[00:14:39] Recognizing emotional states for decisions.

[00:18:04] Market volatility and withdrawal strategies.

[00:22:50] The enemy is ourselves.

[00:24:40] Market recovery time analysis.

[00:28:53] Bear markets as buying opportunities.

[00:31:50] Importance of staying invested.

[00:34:24] Control and fear in investing.

[00:38:23] Long-term investment strategies.

Make Good Easy, Make Bad Hard

Tune in to 'Keep It Simple' with host Adam Morris and Joey Badinger from Asset Builder to discuss strategies for building good habits while eliminating bad ones. They delve into methods inspired by 'The Soul of Wealth' by Daniel Crosby and share practical advice for achieving financial and personal goals using the SMART and EAST models. Highlights include discussions on financial planning, fitness, mental health, and the importance of intentionality in achieving long-term success.

 

[00:00] Introduction and Podcast Purpose

[01:39] The Concept of Make Good Easy, Make Bad Hard

[12:50] SMART Goals and the EAST Framework

[23:54] The Importance of Intentionality and Discipline

[16:25] Real-Life Examples and Applications

[24:49] Impacts of Good Habits on Health and Finances

[38:32] Mental Health Benefits and Therapy

[42:45] Final Thoughts and Encouragement

 

👉 Connect with Team at Asset Builder: https://assetbuilder.com/.

 

Marriage & Finance

In this episode of 'Keep It Simple,' host Adam Morris, Janet Griffith and the team at Asset Builder, including special guest Director of Operations, Hannah Vickery, delve into the intersection of marriage and finance. They share personal experiences, advice, and techniques to help couples manage their finances effectively and reduce stress. Topics include the importance of open communication, different budgeting methods, the role of premarital counseling, and strategies to handle financial disagreements. The episode underscores the importance of being on the same financial team with your spouse to achieve shared goals while navigating life's unexpected challenges.

 

[00:34] Marriage and Finance: Today's Topic

[16:08] Combining Finances: Joint Accountability

[23:57] Handling Financial Stress and Goals

[31:18] Implementing Personal Budgets: The Burn Pile Method

[37:14] Choosing the Right Partner for Financial Harmony

[39:28] Common Financial Disagreements and Resolutions

[42:44] Planning for Retirement and Reducing Expenses

[53:10] The Importance of Open Communication in Budgeting

[54:05] Best and Worst Aspects of Working in Financial Services

[56:43] Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Young Investors

 

👉 Connect with Team at Asset Builder: https://assetbuilder.com/.

The Power of Roth Conversions

Tune in to 'Keep It Simple' with host Adam Morris, Janet Griffith, and Joey Badinger from Asset Builder to explore the intricacies and advantages of Roth conversions today!

 

The discussion covers the fundamentals of what a Roth conversion is, the benefits, including tax optimization and managing required minimum distributions (RMDs), and its strategic advantages in certain market conditions. The team also challenges common myths about Roth conversions and emphasizes the importance of planning and asset location. They provide actionable insights for both novice and experienced investors, underscoring the significance of financial planning in securing a tax-efficient future.

 

01:07 Demystifying Roth Conversions: What You Need to Know

03:45 Roth IRA Basics: Understanding the Fundamentals

09:13 The Advantages of Roth Conversions for Future Planning

11:59 Inherited IRAs and the Impact of Recent Legislation

16:57 Maximizing Lifetime Wealth Through Strategic Tax Planning

18:32 Leveraging Roth Conversions in a Down Market

22:54 Exploring Asset Location in Investment Strategies

27:03 Debunking Myths Around Roth Conversions

29:17 Optimizing Roth Conversions for Different Tax Brackets

36:02 Strategic Planning: Roth Accounts and Estate Planning

40:22 Investment Wisdom and Financial Literacy Evolution

 

👉 Connect with Team at Asset Builder: https://assetbuilder.com/.

 

 

Tax Planning for the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act Sunset

In this episode of 'Keep It Simple,' the team discusses strategies for tax planning in anticipation of the expiring provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, set to phase out by the end of 2025.

 

Joined by advisors Adam Morris, Janet Griffith, and Joey Badinger, they explore potential changes in tax rates, deductions, and credits, emphasizing the need for individuals and businesses to plan ahead. The discussion extends to the implications for estate and gift taxes, and the episode offers insights into making strategic decisions to optimize tax positions. The advisors remind listeners that while they are not tax professionals, their insights aim to prompt thoughtful consideration and consultation with tax experts.

 

Key topics include maximizing tax brackets, leveraging charitable donations, understanding the shifting landscape of deductions, and the importance of early planning for estate taxes.

 

00:34 Special Topic: Tax Planning for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017

01:09 Understanding the Sunset of Tax Provisions

04:08 Strategies for Tax Optimization Before 2026

12:25 Estate and Gift Taxation Changes

14:11 Long-Term Tax Planning Strategies

23:31 Utilizing Capital Gains and Loss Harvesting

26:35 Conclusion and Next Steps