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

August 28, 2025 41 mins
On today’s episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, the President takes aim at the Fed, Kroger announces 1,000 job cuts, and Bob and Brian break down why your “diversified” portfolio might not be as safe as you think. Plus, the rise of elder scams, and your questions on taxes, retirement planning, and charitable trusts.
Mark as Played
On today’s episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian explore why even beloved companies like Cracker Barrel can stumble, why Nvidia now makes up such a huge piece of the S&P 500, and what past giants like GE and Enron teach us about diversification. They’ll also cover the latest Social Security COLA estimate, the buzz around private equity in retirement plans, and how to future-proof your career in ...
Mark as Played
On today’s episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian sit down with Allworth’s Chief Investment Officer, Andy Stout, to break down the Fed’s next move on rate cuts. They also dive into how retail investors are driving markets, smart strategies for unwinding concentrated stock, and which travel rewards cards actually deliver real value.
Mark as Played
Life is full of trade-offs—and nowhere is that more true than in financial planning. On today’s episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian put a fun twist on tough money questions with a special “Would You Rather?” edition. Should you sell highly appreciated stock now and pay taxes, or hold and pass it to heirs with a step-up in basis? Is a bucket strategy better than a total-return approach? Would you m...
Mark as Played
What happens when the person you trusted most with your money turns out to be the one stealing it? On today’s episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian unpack the stunning story of former Northwestern Mutual advisor John Kersey, accused of running a multi-million-dollar fraud right here in Cincinnati. Bob and Brian break down how the alleged scam worked, and—most importantly—how you can protect yourself...
Mark as Played
Mark as Played
S&P reaffirms the U.S. credit rating, Jerome Powell takes the stage at Jackson Hole, and mortgage rates spark a refinancing boom. On today’s episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian explain what it all means for your money, why cashing out a 401(k) can wreck your retirement, and answer listener questions on Roth conversions, direct indexing, and Social Security.
Mark as Played
On today’s episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob, Brian and Allworth Chief Investment Officer Andy Stout explain what investors can learn from Warren Buffett’s latest buy in UnitedHealth. They also break down strong retail sales numbers, what they say about consumer spending, and the potential inflationary hit from new semiconductor tariffs — plus how Intel’s massive Columbus project fits in. Finally, Bob and...
Mark as Played
On today’s episode of Simply Money, Bob and Brian dive into the estate tax drama that could upend retirement plans — and how to prepare so your wealth stays in the family, not in Washington’s hands. Then, in a special “Would You Rather?” edition, they tackle tough money dilemmas that every high-net-worth household eventually faces: lump-sum pension or monthly checks? Buffered ETFs or total market indexing? Live off dividends or sel...
Mark as Played
On today’s episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian dig into the headlines shaping the rest of 2025 — from what could keep markets moving higher to how U.S.–China relations may quietly influence your portfolio. Plus, the guys tackle big-money listener questions on RMD strategies, falling municipal bond yields, and preparing for a future business sale.
Mark as Played
On today’s episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian break down what an extended U.S.–China trade truce really means for your money — from Wall Street to your wallet. They explore the economic ripple effects, where the opportunities (and risks) might be for investors with serious assets, and why patience might pay off in this uncertain climate.
Mark as Played
On this episode Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian break down the latest July inflation report and explain why the Fed might finally be ready to cut rates in September. They also dissect investor fears of stagflation and clarify why today's market isn't the 1970s all over again. Later, they dig into why now might be the right time to lock in short-term yields for your cash, whether direct indexing makes sen...
Mark as Played
Is a recession around the corner—or just more noise? On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian are joined by Allworth's Chief Investment Officer Andy Stout to dissect Moody’s latest warning about the U.S. economy. Does the data really back that up?
Mark as Played
On today’s episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian mix serious financial wisdom with a little “Would You Rather?” fun. They challenge each other—and you—with quirky retirement scenarios that spotlight real planning trade-offs: Would you rather retire at 55 with $2 million, or work until 70 with $5 million? The answers might surprise you.
Mark as Played
On today’s episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian dig into why more countries are pushing retirement later—and what that signals for your financial future. You’ve built a nest egg, maybe refinanced your home, maxed out your retirement accounts… but have you thought about when to retire? With governments around the globe delaying official retirement ages, is longevity becoming your most important asse...
Mark as Played
Is crypto finally growing up? On today’s Simply Money podcast presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian look at whether the rise of regulation and adoption means it’s here to stay — or still too risky. Plus, if you're thinking about retiring soon, here's how to start shifting your investments to get ready.
Mark as Played
On today’s Simply Money podcast presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian dig into fresh research from both Vanguard and BlackRock claiming we might be heading into an era of lower stock market gains. Plus, estate planning mistakes you might not realize you’re making—and how to fix them.
Mark as Played
Has the stock market finally hit choppy waters? Bob and Brian unpack what the latest jobs report tells us about the economy—and what it means for your portfolio. From resilient job numbers to a surprising rate pause by the Fed, there's a lot to navigate.
Mark as Played
On today’s Simply Money show presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian lay out the five ethical standards every financial advisor should meet. Plus, they tackle rising home insurance costs as State Farm makes a big move. What Ohio homeowners can learn—and how you to proactively protect your budget.
Mark as Played
The U.S. economy grew more than expected last quarter—what does that mean for your investments and financial plan? On today’s episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian dig into the latest GDP numbers and explain why the American consumer remains so resilient.
Mark as Played

The Latest News

Popular Podcasts

    Season Two Out Now! Law & Order: Criminal Justice System tells the real stories behind the landmark cases that have shaped how the most dangerous and influential criminals in America are prosecuted. In its second season, the series tackles the threat of terrorism in the United States. From the rise of extremist political groups in the 60s to domestic lone wolves in the modern day, we explore how organizations like the FBI and Joint Terrorism Take Force have evolved to fight back against a multitude of terrorist threats.

    Dateline NBC

    Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

    NFL Daily with Gregg Rosenthal

    Gregg Rosenthal and a rotating crew of elite NFL Media co-hosts, including Patrick Claybon, Colleen Wolfe, Steve Wyche, Nick Shook and Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic get you caught up daily on all the NFL news and analysis you need to be smarter and funnier than your friends.

    Stuff You Should Know

    If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.

    The Breakfast Club

    The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!

Advertise With Us
Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.