Episodes

5 hours ago
5 hours ago
The Big Beautiful Bill Basics Explained | Keep It Simple Podcast with Joey Bottinger
📌 Description
In this episode of the Keep It Simple Podcast, host Joey Badingerbreaks down the recently passed Big Beautiful Bill Act and what it means for taxpayers, families, seniors, business owners, and high-net-worth individuals. Recorded at Asset Builder headquarters in Plano, Texas, this short episode cuts through the complexity to give you clear, actionable takeaways in about 10 minutes.
You’ll learn how the new law affects:
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Income tax brackets, deductions, and credits
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Seniors’ tax benefits and enhanced deductions
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Estate and gift tax exemptions for high-net-worth individuals
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Business owners and the Section 199A deduction
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Families, education planning, 529 plans, and ABLE accounts
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“Trump Accounts” (Treasury Accounts) created for newborns
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No tax on tips & overtime (through 2028)
👉 If you have questions or want personalized guidance, contact our team at podcast@assetbuilder.com or visit assetbuilder.com.
⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 – Disclaimer & Introduction – Host Joey Badinger, Asset Builder Podcast
01:00 – Overview of the Big Beautiful Bill Act
02:00 – Tax provisions for all taxpayers (standard deduction, SALT cap, AMT, child tax credit, charitable deductions)
04:00 – Senior benefits: $6,000 enhanced deduction through 2028
05:00 – High-net-worth individuals: estate & gift tax exemption increases
06:00 – Business owners: Section 199A 20% QBI deduction made permanent
07:00 – “Trump Accounts” (Treasury Accounts) for children born 2025–2028
09:00 – Comparing Trump Accounts vs 529 Plans & Roth IRA options
10:30 – Updates to 529 Plans & ABLE Accounts
12:00 – No tax on tips and overtime pay (through 2028)
13:00 – Final thoughts & how to get advice from Asset Builder
🔑 Keywords for Discovery
Big Beautiful Bill Act explained, Joey Badinger podcast, Asset Builder Keep It Simple Podcast, tax changes 2025, Trump Accounts explained, SALT deduction 2025, estate tax exemption 30 million, Section 199A business deduction, 529 plan updates 2025, ABLE accounts tax benefits, no tax on tips 2028

Wednesday Sep 03, 2025
Keys to the Future: Navigating Today’s Housing Market Together
Wednesday Sep 03, 2025
Wednesday Sep 03, 2025
Keys to the Future: Navigating Today’s Housing Market Together
In this Keep It Simple Podcast episode, host Joey Badinger joins advisors Adam Morse and Tommy Williams at AssetBuilder’s Plano HQ to unpack what’s really going on in today’s housing market—and how families can work together to help Gen Z and Millennials become homeowners.
They trace the arc from early 20th-century mortgages to post-WWII suburbia, the 1970s rate shock, 2000s subprime bubble, post-COVID surge, and today’s challenging mix of higher rates, compressed affordability, insurance spikes, student debt, and constrained supply.
What You’ll Learn
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Housing history in a hurry: From 5-year loans and big down payments to the 30-year mortgage, GI Bill suburbs, the 1970s rate peak, the subprime crisis, and COVID-era price jumps.
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Why affordability is strained now: Home-price-to-income ratios, higher mortgage rates vs. locked-in low-rate owners, insurance costs, and student debt.
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Supply vs. demand realities: Aging-in-place, building restrictions, private investors in starter homes, and why listings can rise even as affordability falls.
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Programs that help first-time buyers: Where to look for down-payment assistance, reduced-rate programs (e.g., HomeReady, Home Possible), and local buyer education courses.
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Family strategies that work: How grandparents/parents can gift earlier, reframe big-ticket events (e.g., weddings) vs. down payments, and coach smart savings habits.
Episode Highlights
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Rates matter—but so does the price base. A 6–7% mortgage is tough; the bigger problem is prices outpacing wages.
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Locked-in effect: Owners with 2–3% mortgages aren’t moving—tightening the starter-home pipeline.
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Costs beyond the mortgage: Insurance premiums and maintenance have significantly outpaced wages.
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Education pays: City/county first-time buyer classes can prevent costly surprises (inspections, foundation/piping, etc.).
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Timing gifts can change trajectories: Front-loading support (within a plan) can beat waiting for inheritances.
Chapters
00:00 – Disclaimer & intro
00:18 – Welcome from Plano HQ + today’s topic
01:02 – Why this matters to Gen Z & Millennials
02:04 – Housing history in 5 minutes (setup)
03:02 – Early 1900s: short loans, big down payments
03:40 – Post-WWII & GI Bill: the suburban boom
04:48 – 1970s shock: inflation & 18% mortgage rates
06:20 – 1990s–2000s: innovation → subprime bubble
08:08 – 2006–2012: crash, foreclosures, recovery
10:40 – 2020–2022: ultra-low rates, 40% price surge
11:50 – Today’s landscape: rates ~6–7%, slower demand
12:35 – Affordability math: price-to-income has doubled
13:45 – “Locked-in” owners with 2–3% mortgages
14:38 – Insurance & maintenance costs outpacing wages
15:28 – Student debt + wages: the squeeze on buyers
16:35 – Supply constraints, regs, and investor buyers
18:10 – What helps first-time buyers (overview)
18:38 – Down-payment assistance: HomeReady & Home Possible
19:30 – City/county first-time buyer education (why it matters)
20:28 – Family strategies: earlier gifting, matching, trade-offs
22:05 – Process over outcome: SMART savings goals
23:10 – Weekly money check: kill leaks, automate saving
24:12 – Build a “buy box”: price, payment, area, size
25:06 – Portfolio & plan check for parents/grandparents
26:02 – Action checklist (6 quick wins)
27:05 – Closing thoughts & how we can help
27:40 – Contact: podcast@assetbuilder.com & site info
Practical Action Steps
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Run a “buy box.” Define target price, area, size, and monthly payment limit; set SMART goals for savings.
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Automate contributions to a down-payment fund; track “leaks” (unused subscriptions, lifestyle creep).
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Explore assistance: Check local/state down-payment and rate-reduction programs; look into Fannie Mae HomeReady and Freddie Mac Home Possible eligibility.
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Take a first-time buyer class through your city/county or housing nonprofit.
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Family plan: If you’re a parent/grandparent, talk openly about earlier gifting, matching funds, or custodial/earmarked accounts—after confirming your own retirement plan is solid.
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Reframe trade-offs: A slightly smaller wedding or car today could mean faster home equity tomorrow.
đź“© Questions for Joey, Adam, or Tommy? Email podcast@assetbuilder.com or visit assetbuilder.com to meet with an advisor.
SEO Keywords & Hashtags
Keywords: housing market 2025, first-time homebuyer tips, home affordability, mortgage rates vs prices, down payment assistance, HomeReady, Home Possible, starter homes shortage, budgeting for a house, Gen Z home buying.
Hashtags:
#HousingMarket #FirstTimeHomebuyer #HomeBuyingTips #MortgageRates #Affordability #PersonalFinance #WealthBuilding #GenZ #Millennials

Thursday Aug 21, 2025
3 Budgeting Techniques to Help You Take Control of Your Finances
Thursday Aug 21, 2025
Thursday Aug 21, 2025
Struggling to get control of your money? In this episode of The Keep It Simple Podcast, Joey Bodinger shares three proven budgeting techniques that will help you manage your money, eliminate financial stress, and reach your goals faster. Whether you’re brand new to budgeting or looking for a smarter system, you’ll learn about:
The 50/30/20 Rule a simple framework to balance needs, wants, and savings. The 80/20 Rule the “pay yourself first” mindset that ensures you save consistently. Zero-Based Budgeting – the most powerful way to give every dollar a purpose. Joey breaks down each method, explains how to apply it in real life, and shares tips to avoid common money leaks like forgotten subscriptions or overspending. By the end of this episode, you’ll have practical steps to take control of your finances today.
👉 If you’re serious about building financial stability, growing your savings, and investing wisely, this episode is for you.
Timestamps:
[00:00] Disclaimer & Welcome
[01:00] Why budgeting matters for financial stability
[01:20] The 50/30/20 Rule explained [03:00] Why saving and debt repayment are critical
[04:00] The 80/20 Rule: Pay yourself first [05:00] Automating savings, debt payments & investments
[06:00] The power of Zero-Based Budgeting
[07:30] How to stay disciplined with weekly money check-ins
[09:00] Tools for budgeting (Monarch Money, YNAB)
[10:00] Final thoughts & how to connect
Resources & Links: Visit us: AssetBuilder.com
Email questions: podcast@assetbuilder.com
Budgeting apps mentioned: Monarch Money , You Need a Budget (YNAB)
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Thursday Aug 07, 2025
Surviving the Storm: What Recent Bear Markets Taught Us
Thursday Aug 07, 2025
Thursday Aug 07, 2025
In this episode of the Keep It Simple Podcast, host Joey Badinger is joined by advisors Adam Morse, Tommy Williams, and Janet Griffith as they dive into discussions aimed at simplifying investment strategies for listeners. The episode kicks off with light-hearted banter about the summer heat and everyone's plans for the weekend, including Adam's hunting trip and Janet's upcoming family getaway to Big Cedar Lodge with her grandson. The group emphasizes the importance of spending quality time with loved ones and the joy of engaging in activities like fishing. Tune in for insights on how to destressify your investment approach while enjoying life's adventures!
[00:02:01] Recent bear markets overview.
[00:04:24] Psychological impact of bear markets.
[00:07:50] Bear markets and investment strategy.
[00:10:24] Market recovery times after downturns.
[00:16:15] Herd mentality in investing.
[00:17:23] Market strategies for investing.
[00:20:33] Market recovery after Black Monday.
[00:25:34] Missing the best market days.
[00:30:41] Working with financial advisors.
[00:32:30] Importance of working with advisors.

Thursday Jul 24, 2025
Personal Reconstitution: Realign Your Goals, Finances, and Life with Purpose
Thursday Jul 24, 2025
Thursday Jul 24, 2025
Have you ever felt your goals slipping away or wondered if your financial plan still matches your life? In this insightful episode, Joey Boding, alongside Adam Morris and Tommy Williams, discusses the concept of personal reconstitution—a valuable method inspired by passive investment strategies that helps you recalibrate your personal and financial goals. Learn why regular check-ins can significantly boost your chances of success, keep you aligned with your priorities, and help you celebrate meaningful progress.
For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:
[0:00] Introduction
[1:00] Understanding financial reconstitution and its purpose
[3:00] Potential downsides of passive fund reconstitution
[6:30] Tax implications and volatility during reconstitution
[10:00] Benefits and simplicity of periodic financial reconstitution
[12:30] Why investors should regularly review fund holdings
[15:00] Transition to personal reconstitution
[16:30] Mid-year goal check-in and personal reflections
[19:00] How frequent personal evaluations can keep you aligned
[21:30] Questions to help you stay on track and aligned with values
[24:00] Budgeting: the foundation of effective personal reconstitution
[27:00] Identifying and eliminating financial leaks
[30:00] Adjusting strategies and goals when life changes
[32:00] Setting SMART goals and realistic expectations
[35:00] Final tips for personal and financial success
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For more information on Asset Builder, visit our website: https://assetbuilder.com

Monday Jun 02, 2025
Most Popular Questions from Google
Monday Jun 02, 2025
Monday Jun 02, 2025
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.
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We discuss:
- Cryptocurrency Investing: Understanding the risks, practical platforms like Coinbase, and the emergence of Bitcoin ETFs.
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- 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.
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- Initial Investment Amounts & Strategies: Prioritizing an emergency fund, consistent investing habits, and the benefits of diversified index funds over individual stocks.
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- Passive Investing Explained: A deep dive into long-term investment strategies that aim to capture market growth rather than attempting to time the market.
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- Calculating Return on Investment (ROI): A clear explanation of how ROI is determined, including the significance of total return versus price return.
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- 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.
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- Saving vs. Investing: Clarifying when to save (emergency fund, short-term goals) and when to invest (long-term growth).
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- 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

Wednesday May 07, 2025
Financial Wisdom from the Pros
Wednesday May 07, 2025
Wednesday May 07, 2025
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:
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Learn more about AssetBuilder: https://assetbuilder.com
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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

Friday Apr 11, 2025
The Benefits of a Financial Plan
Friday Apr 11, 2025
Friday Apr 11, 2025
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

Friday Mar 07, 2025
Tax Strategies
Friday Mar 07, 2025
Friday Mar 07, 2025
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:Â https://assetbuilder.com/.

Wednesday Feb 05, 2025
Setting SMART Goals: A Guide to Financial Well-being in 2025
Wednesday Feb 05, 2025
Wednesday Feb 05, 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:
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The importance of goal setting
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Understanding SMART goals
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Strategies for paying off debt
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Creating and maintaining a budget
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The benefits of regular saving and investing
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Tips for increasing financial literacy
👉 Connect with Team at Asset Builder: https://assetbuilder.com/.