Mark's Money Mind

In this episode Mark shares his comprehensive approach to a semi-annual financial review. Covering essential personal finance practices, Mark outlines steps for calculating net worth, tracking spending, evaluating annual achievements against the one-page financial plan, and preparing for future financial goals. 

Mark provides insights on Roth conversions, social security benefits, and...

In this episode Mark discusses significant updates to the Capital One Venture X and Chase Sapphire Reserve credit cards, affecting lounge access, benefits and annual fees. 

He elaborates on how these changes will impact frequent travelers, comparing the benefits and drawbacks of both cards, and considers whether to keep or cancel these cards in light of the updates. 

He also touche...

In this episode Mark delves into his personal approach to post-retirement asset allocation, expanding on a discussion from his appearance on the BiggerPockets Money podcast. Mark shares his journey from a 100% equities portfolio during his accumulation years to his current 80% equity and 20% fixed income allocation. 

He explains the rationale behind this transition, influenced by vari...

Mark shares insights on achieving financial independence and preparing the next generation for financial freedom. Returning from his trip to French Polynesia and Hawaii, Mark delves into strategies for setting up children and the next generation for financial success using Roth IRAs, 529 plans and custodial accounts. 

He also answers a listener's question about whether to contribute t...

In this episode Mark discusses recent market volatility triggered by the administration’s tariff implementation and subsequent policy reversal, detailing a sharp drop and rebound in stock values. 

Mark explains bear markets and corrections, referencing historical data on market crashes included in a recent Morningstar article. Key insights from Warren Buffet and the late Charlie Munge...

In this episode Mark discusses the importance of understanding market valuation to navigate the current financial landscape. Mark explains the differences between being a shareholder and a bondholder and dives deep into the concept of the Price to Earnings (PE) ratio and its significance in evaluating stocks. 

He explains how to calculate the PE ratio of the S&P 500 Index and comp...

In this episode Mark discusses the pros and cons of paying off a low-interest mortgage with Doug Cunnington from the Mile High FI podcast. They address a listener's question about whether to pay off a 2.5% mortgage or invest the money elsewhere. 

The discussion includes various approaches, potential returns, and risk mitigation strategies. Mark and Doug also delve into scenarios relat...

In this episode, Mark co-hosts an episode of the Mile High FI podcast with Doug Cunnington where they explore the concept of loosening the purse strings in 2024. Recorded at Doug Cunnington's Basement Studio in Longmont, Colorado, the conversation delves into overcoming frugal habits within the financial independence community. 

They discuss personal experiences, like Doug's indulgenc...

In this episode Mark discusses the crucial role of an Investment Policy Statement (IPS) in guiding investment decisions and maintaining a long-term perspective during market volatility. 

He references a detailed article from the Bogleheads and explains the benefits of an IPS, including setting investment goals, asset allocation, risk tolerance, and rebalancing strategies. Mark also sh...

In this episode Mark shares his approach to starting the new year with a solid personal financial plan. He covers how to reflect on the past year's financial activities, organize income and expenses, and prepare a comprehensive one-page financial plan for the upcoming year. 

Topics include tracking income and expenses, calculating net worth, preparing for tax season, optimizing health...

In this episode of Mark's Money Mind, host Mark Trautman broadcasts from the FI Freedom Retreat in Bali co-hosting this ChooseFI podcast with Brad Barrett. They share their personal journeys and interview participants about their financial independence experiences. 

Mark and Brad discuss the challenges and triumphs of the FI community. Special guests like Sean discuss negotiating sabb...

In this heartfelt episode Mark broadcasts from the Bass Strait off the coast of Australia delving into reflections on life's ups and downs while sailing the rough seas. Mark shares his personal Thanksgiving reflections and discusses the importance of gratitude and giving back. 

Highlighting the efforts of the PKP Community Center for disadvantaged women and children in Indonesia, he e...

In this episode Mark broadcasts from the cruise ship Silver Nova off the coast of Australia. 

Mark addresses the critical steps to take if you or someone you know is laid off. Topics include understanding severance packages, health insurance options like COBRA, applying for unemployment benefits, managing emergency funds, consolidating retirement accounts, and reassessing financial pr...

This episode takes place at the FI Freedom Retreat in Bali, Indonesia. Speakers Alan & Katie Donegan and Rachel Richards (Money Honey Rachel) share insights aligning personal identity with life vision. 

Discussions include the impact of self-perception on achieving goals, the benefits of financial freedom during life's challenges, and practical exercises to align one's identity wi...

In this week's episode Mark broadcasts from Bali, Indonesia, sharing his travel experiences and providing a comprehensive guide on organizing international trips both financially and logistically. 

He discusses using platforms like Booking.com for lodgings, redeeming points for flights and accommodations, and the benefits of eSIMs for cell phone usage. Mark also covers the importance ...

In this episode Mark broadcasts one last time from Crested Butte, Colorado, before embarking on a two-month journey to Bali, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand. This episode focuses on essential aspects of estate planning, such as the importance of wills, powers of attorney, healthcare directives and possibly a trust. 

Mark shares personal experiences, including updating his estate...

In this episode of Mark dives into the ‘Fun Bucket' strategy with Kevin Sebesta, exploring how retirees can transition from a saving to a spending mindset. Originally discussed on the Forget About Money podcast hosted by David Baughier, the concept involves allocating funds specifically for enjoyable activities to facilitate guilt-free spending. 

The episode covers practical steps to ...

In this episode Mark responds to a listener's email about how to teach financial literacy to high school students and children. Mark emphasizes the importance of simplifying finance concepts, highlighting his motto: 'Make Some, Save and Invest, Live on the Rest.' 

He recounts personal stories to illustrate industriousness, saving, investing, and conscious spending as vital components ...

In this episode, Mark and special guest Kevin Sebesta discuss retirement planning strategies after attending a Rock Retirement Club event in Grapevine, Texas. 

The discussion emphasizes the concept of secure retirement income as an alternative to the 4% rule commonly discussed in the FI/RE (Financial Independence/Retire Early) community. 

Key topics include the importance of secure...