Simply Money

Simply Money

For more than 20 years, the Simply Money radio show has provided straightforward and entertaining explanations of how the economy and stock market affect your wealth. Join Allworth advisors Bob Sponseller and Brian James from our Cincinnati team as they offer unique financial perspectives—along with smart tax and estate planning strategies—to help you make the most of your money. The information presented is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a comprehensive analysis of the topics discussed. It should not be interpreted as personalized investment advice or relied upon as such. The information is not intended to convey any implicit or explicit guarantee or sense of assurance that, if followed, any investment strategies referenced will produce a positive or desired outcome. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. There can be no assurance that any investment strategy or decision will achieve its intended objectives or result in a positive return. It is important to carefully consider your investment goals, risk tolerance, and seek professional advice before making any investment decisions.

Episodes

October 17, 2025 40 mins
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian break down the recent crypto flash crash that wiped out billions in minutes—what caused it, and what it means for your money. Then, they explore the psychology behind checking your portfolio balance too often. Cybersecurity expert Dave Hatter joins to explain how an outdated home router could be the weak link in your financial safety net. Plus, Bob and B...
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On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian break down what Fed Chair Powell’s latest comments mean for rates, inflation, and your money. They also dig into the 2026 tax brackets, smart Roth conversion moves, and the truth about “tax-free” Social Security.Plus, the guys answer listener questions on trusts, risk, and estate updates. Finally, Brian wraps with key year-end tax strategies to protect y...
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On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian celebrate the third birthday of the latest bull market — and reflect on what an 85% rise in the S&P 500 since 2022 really teaches long-term investors. Then, they explore a hidden risk for high-net-worth investors: complacency. When your wealth grows, it’s easy to think it’ll manage itself. Bob and Brian share how rebalancing, tax strategies, and proa...
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On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian talk with Allworth’s Chief Investment Officer Andy Stout about what caused Friday’s market sell-off — from tariff saber-rattling to China’s rare earth restrictions — and why none of it is truly “new.” Andy shares what to watch in the week ahead, including CPI data, earnings season, and a government shutdown. Plus, why separate portfolios in marriage migh...
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On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian James reveal how trillions in family wealth could quietly end up with the IRS instead of your heirs. They explain why a will isn’t enough, how advanced estate planning tools like trusts and gifting strategies can protect your legacy, and why communication among family members matters just as much as the money.
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On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian warn against the “paper wealth trap” — mistaking market highs for lasting financial security. They break down how to turn temporary gains into durable wealth with proper liquidity, diversification, and planning. You’ll also hear why buffered ETFs are drawing billions from investors — and when they actually make sense. Plus, real estate pro Michelle Sloan...
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On today’s episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian explain why your emergency fund might be the most powerful part of your financial plan — no matter your net worth. Then, learn how to keep the IRS from eating away at your stock gains with smart cost-basis and timing strategies. Plus, Better Business Bureau President Jocile Ehrlich warns about new scams — from fake tax refund texts to “ghost tapping” ...
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On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian dig into the ongoing government shutdown and the financial ripple effects it could cause. Then, they expose the four-letter word quietly eating away at your wealth and how to make sure you’re actually getting value for what you pay. Plus, real estate expert Michelle Sloan shares whether Cincinnati’s housing market is cooling or heating up, and the guys t...
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On today’s episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian discuss the government shutdown, and dive into how diversification in the S&P 500 is quietly making a comeback as the so-called "Magnificent Seven" lose steam. Then, they explore how two families with the same wealth can have totally different outcomes—because of planning. Plus, your questions answered: structured notes, gold as a safe haven, and ...
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On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian bust some of the biggest money myths that could sink your financial future — from “I’ll just work forever” to “downsizing my house will give me a windfall” to “Medicare will cover long-term care.” They’ll explain why these assumptions can derail even the best-laid retirement plans and how to replace wishful thinking with solid math. Plus, are we already ...
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On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian tear into the latest batch of financial fear-mongering—those breathless headlines about shutdowns, gold spikes, Bitcoin surges, and the so-called "Wall Street fear index." They explain why these narratives often lack critical context and what really moves markets long term. Plus, they tackle open enrollment with smart, high-net-worth strategies for your ...
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On today’s episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian explain why most of the government keeps running during a shutdown—and why investors shouldn’t panic. Plus, wealthy Americans are giving less to charity. We unpack the reasons and show you smarter ways to give using donor-advised funds and IRAs. And—what’s the best financial advice people ignore? We share the simple strategies that too many high-net-w...
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On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian unpack the “smart-sounding” money advice that can quietly sabotage your future—from skipping Roth conversions and “going broke safely” in cash, to one-fund DIY investing without a plan, estate-planning myths that lead to probate messes, and being sold permanent life insurance instead of building a tax-smart strategy. They also dig into FINRA’s move to lo...
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September 30, 2025 41 mins
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian unpack why the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge (core PCE) near 3% and surprisingly strong GDP make additional rate cuts tricky. They challenge one-size-fits-all Roth conversions—“pay taxes when you’ll pay less”—and mark 50 years of index funds, noting both their low-cost power and today’s concentration risks. Plus: listener questions on backdoor Roths, c...
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September 26, 2025 38 mins
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian unpack four hidden forces that quietly drive high-stakes money choices—even when the spreadsheet says “go.” They share real “financial confessions” from successful investors, outline costly divorce mistakes, and tackle a rapid-fire Ask the Advisor on wash sales, annuities, private credit, and the #1 mistake for households with a few million saved.
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September 25, 2025 38 mins
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian explain why inflation and interest-rate cycles look scarier in headlines than they are for long-term investors—zooming out from Volcker to near-zero rates to today to show how markets normalize. They turn that history into action: how to position cash and bonds as rates shift, match time horizons to risk, and avoid headline chasing. Plus, the Social Secu...
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September 25, 2025 38 mins
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian share the biggest regrets wealthy retirees face — and how to avoid them. They also cover how to turn severance into strategy, ways to protect your privacy from Google, listener questions on direct indexing and estate planning, and Brian’s bottom line on the Secure Act 2.0.
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September 24, 2025 39 mins
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian break down the looming government shutdown and what it could mean for your investments in the short term. They also dive into why investors are holding a record $7.7 trillion in money market funds, and whether that’s a smart move in today’s market. Plus, they unpack the real cost of the American Dream—homes, kids, health care, and more—and how planning c...
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September 22, 2025 39 mins
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian get Allworth Chief Investment Officer Andy Stout’s take on the Fed’s latest rate cut and what it really means for investors. They also cover new IRS rules pushing high earners’ 401(k) catch-ups into Roths, why HSAs are the most overlooked tax break, and how to protect your retirement from sequence of return risk. Plus, real listener questions on private ...
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September 19, 2025 38 mins
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian share the “financial deep clean” every high-net-worth investor should do. They break down an Ohio company’s surprise move to cut its 401(k) match, and ask if billionaires really follow through on their giving pledges. Plus, they answer your questions.
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