Your Money & Your Life Podcast

A new tax bill has officially passed (you’ve probably heard it mentioned as the “Big Beautiful Bill”). In this episode, Don breaks down what the newly signed bill actually means for retirees, pre-retirees, and anyone planning for their financial future. While the bill made headlines for its timing and optics, the real story lies in the planning opportunities it creates. Don walks through key updates, including the extension of curr...

There’s a lot happening in the world right now- but quietly moving through Congress and the Senate is a major new tax bill. If passed, it could have a significant impact on retirees, investors, and families with larger estates. In this episode of Your Money and Your Life, Don breaks down the key provisions you need to know.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

📉 Proposed tax breaks for retirees over 65

🧾 Why Social Sec...

We’ve all heard of FOMO: fear of missing out. But in 2025, a new investor emotion is taking center stage: FOGI, the fear of getting in. After watching market volatility, political headlines, and wild swings in interest rates, many investors are stuck sitting on the sidelines, afraid to buy back in, afraid to buy too late, and most of all, afraid of looking foolish. It’s not just about risk anymore. It’s about regret.

In this episod...

In this eye-opening episode, Don and Marc tackle one of retirement’s most overlooked traps: double taxation on retirement income. From after-tax 401k contributions to state tax rules that sneak up on unsuspecting savers, they break down how easily your hard-earned money can get taxed more than once, and what to do about it.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

💰 What “double taxation” actually means

⚠️ How NJ tax rule...

What if taxes on your Social Security benefits disappeared entirely? That’s one of several proposals being floated in Washington, and in this episode, Don and Marc break down what it could mean for retirees. They explain how Social Security benefits became taxable, why outdated income thresholds are causing more people to pay taxes today, and explore the possible reforms being discussed.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this epi...

With headlines full of tariffs and political drama, it’s easy to miss a major win for New Jersey homeowners, especially retirees. In this episode of Your Money & Your Life, Don and Marc shine a spotlight on the 2025 NJ property tax relief programs that could save residents thousands of dollars. From the long-standing Property Tax Freeze program to the more recent ANCHOR rebate and the brand-new Stay NJ benefit, the guys break d...

Tariffs, tariffs, tariffs- they’re dominating the headlines. With new tariffs implemented across nearly 90 countries, market volatility has surged, investor anxiety is rising, and confusion is everywhere. Don brings clarity to the chaos by explaining what tariffs actually are, who really pays them, and why the market is reacting the way it is.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

📦 What tariffs are and who’s really foot...

Today we’re piggybacking off last episode’s conversation about market volatility and the emotion that sets in for investors. Is this time different than market corrections of years past? People feel inclined to panic during turbulent times, so Don will explore that fear by breaking down what’s actually happening, investor fears, and what history can teach us about managing uncertainty.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode...

In this episode, Don Cash tackles the pressing question on everyone’s mind: Should we panic about recent market drops? With the stock market experiencing sharp fluctuations and fears of a recession looming, he breaks down the economic landscape and provides a clear perspective on what really matters for investors.

💰 Don covers inflation to the "Magnificent 7" stocks—including the dangers of market concentration and why diversifica...

In this episode, Don and Marc explore smart tax moves to consider before the April 15th deadline. They focus on ways to take advantage of accounts like IRAs and HSAs, as well as important deductions that often go overlooked. The conversation highlights opportunities to maximize savings for the 2024 tax year, covering everything from retirement contributions to charitable donations.

They also explore how certain tax moves can help y...

We knew this year would bring plenty to talk about, and so far, it's certainly living up to that expectation. In this episode, Don and Marc dive into the key economic issues making headlines: government spending, tariffs, and the DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency).

With a new administration in office, they break down important economic indicators like inflation and employment, and discuss how tariffs impact both inflation a...

Just this month, Los Angeles was ravaged by unprecedented, devastating wildfires. These catastrophic events have left thousands of homeowners grappling with total losses, denied claims, underinsurance, and unexpected coverage gaps. In the wake of these tragedies, it’s important to ask: Could this happen to you? Are you truly covered, or do you just think you are?

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• The basics of ho...

Happy 2025! It’s hard to believe that 25 years have passed since the world braced itself for the so-called “Millennium Bug.” For those old enough to remember, it was a time filled with fear, speculation, and intense efforts to prevent potential chaos.

This week, Don and Marc explore the parallels between then and now and reflect on the lessons learned from that era of uncertainty.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

As the holiday season approaches, many of us find ourselves gathering with loved ones, sharing stories, laughter, and sometimes, unexpected topics. In this holiday edition of the show, Don brings a fascinating mix of cheer and wisdom to the table by helping you with three vital financial conversations you can have with loved ones this holiday season.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• What does Don think about the...

December is here, so in this episode, Don and Marc take a moment to look ahead at what changes may be coming in 2025, particularly when it comes to IRA planning and potential tax shifts. Listen in as they break down the key factors to consider when deciding whether to convert your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA, including tax rates, the timing of your conversion, and how it fits into your overall retirement strategy.

Throughout the ...

After months of political debates and campaign ads, the election season has finally come to a close. While some of our clients are celebrating the results, others are feeling disappointed. However, the reality is that many of the key financial issues we faced before remain unchanged. Taxes, investing, Medicare, long-term care, estate planning—these are the areas we’ll continue navigating regardless of the election outcome.

In today...

Medicare Open Enrollment is upon us! Running from October 15th to December 7th, this window allows you to make important changes to your healthcare coverage. So, what should you be on the lookout for and what mistakes should you avoid during this time?

Today, we’re excited to welcome the one and only Ray Martin, the owner of Martin & Associates Insurance Services in Irvine, California. who will help us navigate this process. He...

In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, many are grappling with the devastation these powerful storms have caused. Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to understand how to safeguard our homes and finances against such natural disasters.

In today’s episode, Don offers a comprehensive guide on protecting your assets through homeowners and flood insurance. He and Marc also share some ways that you can support those affected by Hurr...

As the leaves turn and we embrace the fall season, it's the perfect time to turn the page on your financial planning and get updated on the latest news that could impact your retirement. In this episode, we’re going to update you on the projected Social Security cost of living adjustment (COLA) for 2025 and the trip tax benefit for those residing in New Jersey.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• What the 2.5% inc...