The Field Guide: Simplify, Navigate and Elevate Your Financial Life

RMDs can be a retirement game-changer, and not always in a good way. In this episode, we break down what they are, when they hit, and smart moves to keep them from wrecking your tax bill. Learn how to make RMDs work for you instead of against you.  

Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/required-minimum-distributions

To learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com

Disclosure: https...

Think your old insurance policy is still doing its job? Think again. In this episode, we break down why a quick insurance review could save you thousands, boost your coverage, and bring your protection strategy into the present.  

Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/insurance-review

To learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com

Disclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/discl...

The Big Beautiful Bill Act brought major tax changes, but also big planning opportunities. In this episode, we break down what retirees and near-retirees need to know to make the most of the new rules, tax cuts, and optimize their strategy.  
Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/big-beautiful-bill-tax-cuts

To learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com

Disclosure: https://www...

Thinking about investing in CDs but not sure if they’re worth it? In this episode, we break down what CDs are, how they work, and how strategies like laddering can help you stay flexible while growing your money with less risk.

Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/investing-in-cds
To learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com
Disclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disc...

Life insurance can feel a bit overwhelming, and honestly, a little shady. Brian dives into the real difference between permanent life insurance and term life insurance, why term often makes more sense, and how to avoid getting sold on fear instead of facts.  

Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/permanent-vs-term-life-insurance

To learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com
Discl...

In this episode, Medicare specialist Andrew Mersereau breaks down the critical decisions around Medicare enrollment, including why your initial choice could be permanent, and how to avoid costly mistakes. Whether you're nearing 65 or helping a loved one, this is a must-listen.

Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/medicare-choice

To learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com
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Think Social Security doesn’t matter if you’re wealthy? In this episode, Brian explains why it does, and how to maximize your Social Security benefits so your kids or favorite charity will thank you.  

Full show notes:  https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/maximize-your-social-security-benefits

Get your Social Security Cheat Sheet: https://www.bonfire.financial/social-security-medicare-cheat-sheet  

To learn more about Bonfire Financi...

Most people think Roth conversions are just a retirement tax move. In reality, they can be one of the most powerful estate planning tools available. In this episode, we break down how a well-timed Roth conversion can help your family avoid a massive tax bill, and why paying a little now could save your family a lot later. If you’re serious about leaving a legacy (not a tax mess), this one’s for you.

Full show notes:  https://www.bon...

The word gets thrown around a lot. But what does it really mean to work with a fiduciary? In this episode, Brian breaks down what a fiduciary is, why it matters, and how it impacts your financial life. He shares real-life examples and explains how to tell whether your advisor is truly putting your interests first. 
Full show notes:  https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/fiduciary-financial-advisor
To learn more about Bonfire Finan...

Most investors think they understand their risk tolerance until markets drop or an opportunity knocks. In this episode, Brian breaks down why risk tolerance is more art than science, how asymmetric risk fits into a smart investment strategy, and how to take calculated risks without putting your long-term goals at risk.  Full show notes:  https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/asymmetric-risk
To learn more about Bonfire Financial, please v...

In this episode of The Field Guide, Brian breaks down the basics of private equity and why it can be a smart move for business owner. From common misconceptions to different ways to invest (without running a company yourself), he covers how private equity works, who it’s suited for, and how it can play a meaningful role in your long-term wealth strategy.  

Full show notes:  https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/investing-in-private-equit...

It’s not flashy. It’s not fun. But it works. Brian dives into the boring strategy that could be the difference between a smooth retirement and a financial freakout. Spoiler: it’s diversification, and it matters way more than you think.  

Full show notes:  https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/diversification  

To learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com

Disclosure: https://www.bonfirefinanc...

Markets are down, nerves are up, but this isn’t the time to panic. In this episode, Brian shares why the dollar-cost averaging investment strategy isn't so average. Tune in to learn how a steady hand and a solid plan can turn market dips into long-term wins.

Full show notes:  https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/dollar-cost-averaging-in-down-markets

To learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial...