Q&A: Debt and Condos

In this Friday Q&A episode, Don answers a wide range of listener questions, covering everything from market timing behavior and condo pitfalls to portfolio simplification and strategic debt repayment. He offers heartfelt financial guidance with his usual mix of candor and compassion—including a personal confession about his own Social Security decision. Plus, he pleads (just a little) for positive Apple Podcast reviews to combat the crypto bros and insurance hawks. 0:04 Friday Q&A intro and how to submit voice questions 1:40 What do market-timing traders actually do with their cash during volatility? 4:25 Are condos and co-ops really “the devil”? Why Don’s skeptical 9:46 Listener shares Don sparked his investing journey in the ‘90s 11:15 Should a friend drop her advisor for a robo-platform—or go DIY with VT/BND? 17:32 Why Don prefers AVGE over VTI for broader, smarter diversification 18:15 Tiny differences in fees can mean big long-term results 18:58 Active-duty military caller: Should I pay off debt using savings and ditch whole life? 24:08 Listener nearing 70: Should I freeze my Social Security or just enjoy it now? 26:46 Don’s honest confession about his own SS filing decision 27:52 Why good reviews matter (and how to fight the crypto/insurance trolls) 29:43 Call live on Saturdays while Tom vacations… again Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices