Everyday Wealth Podcast Past Episodes
We answer your questions!
Season 2 Episode 39
In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planners Isabel Barrow and Andy Smith answer listeners’ questions. Topics include: life insurance, tax-efficient planning strategies, inherited IRAs and Roth IRAs and the potential tax implications of each, long-term care, emergency funds, reliable retirement income streams and more! And remember, if you have a question you’d like answered on the podcast, just go to EverydayWealth.com, scroll down to the “Ask the host” box, type in your question and submit.
Broken ties: The impact of family estrangement on estate planning
Season 2 Episode 38
According to a survey by the Cornell Family Reconciliation Project, 27% of Americans, approximately 68 million people, are now estranged from their family. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planner Andy Smith address the financial side of estrangement and the estate planning challenges for changing family dynamics including multigenerational wealth transfer. Later in the episode, Erin Smith, a director of estate planning at Edelman Financial Engines, joins the conversation to explain the main components of an estate plan and why everyone should have one, especially those with complicated family situations.
Protect your wealth against scams
Season 2 Episode 37
Fraud and scams are on the rise. Last year, Americans lost a record $3.82 billion to investment fraud - an increase of 128% from the previous year. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planners Andy Smith and Isabel Barrow share how to identify the different types of scams, how to keep personal and financial information more secure, and what to do if you or someone you know falls victim to a scam.
The urgent need for tax planning right now
Season 2 Episode 36
There’s a very good chance that your taxes are about to go up. That’s because the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, a massive overhaul of the tax code for both businesses and individual taxpayers that reduced taxes for many people, may expire if Congress doesn’t act to extend it. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planner Isabel Barrow discuss ways to start planning for the possibility of higher taxes, including different strategies that could help reduce your tax burden. Then, Jean interviews Howard Gleckman, a senior fellow at the Urban Institute, about how the political climate will affect the outcome of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and what the fiscal ramifications could be. Next, Jennifer Chomicki, senior director of advanced planning strategies at Edelman Financial Engines, joins Jean and Isabel to discuss new tax technology that helps identify ways to potentially reduce your taxes.
The future of personal finance and artificial intelligence
Season 2 Episode 35
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has raised concerns for some when it comes to their personal finances. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planner Andy Smith discuss the ins and outs of AI, including ChatGPT, and the opportunities and risks that it may present. Then, David Goldberg, senior vice president and chief data and analytics officer at Edelman Financial Engines, joins Jean and Andy to talk about what AI technology is and what it can and can’t do.
Your 100-year life and how to plan for it
Season 2 Episode 34
In this special episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, we’re revisiting three of our most popular guest interviews, all focused on living longer and how to plan for it. First, Jean speaks to Ken Dychtwald, founder of Age Wave, about how retirement is changing and what retirees can do to prepare both financially and mentally for a longer life. Then, Jean welcomes Michael Clinton, author of Roar: into the second half of your life (before it's too late), about the importance of finding purpose and connection in our later years. Later, Erin Smith, a director of estate planning at Edelman Financial Engines, joins Jean to discuss the essentials of an estate plan and how an advisor can help.
Retirement strategies for singles
Season 2 Episode 33
There’s a growing trend of people going through retirement alone. Whether it’s because of the loss of a spouse, the rise in divorces among baby boomers, or entirely by choice, more and more retirees are going through their golden years solo. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean is joined by wealth planners Andy Smith and Isabel Barrow to talk about the challenges of retiring alone and what you can do to prepare for a less stressful solo retirement. Then, Jean is joined by Rodney Weaver, a director of estate planning at Edelman Financial Engines, to discuss options for solo retirees to help prepare financially for the rest of their lives.
Is it a good time to buy a house?
Season 2 Episode 32
With a rapidly changing housing market and soaring mortgage rates, many people are questioning if now is the right time to buy. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planner Isabel Barrow explore that question by dissecting today’s housing climate and weighing in on the factors you need to consider before buying a home. Then, they talk to Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist and vice president of research at the National Association of Realtors, about new and existing home sales, home builder trends and predictions for the second half of the year.
Is college worth it?
Season 2 Episode 31
These days, fewer students are enrolling in colleges and the ones who enroll are graduating at lower rates. And with the cost of college on the rise, many people are asking if it’s worth it. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean is joined by wealth planner Andy Smith to talk about college savings options, such as 529 plans, and alternatives to a traditional college education. Later, Jean and Andy talk to Ryan Craig, managing director at Achieve Partners, and author of the upcoming, Apprentice Nation: How the “Earn and Learn” Alternative to Higher Education Will Create a Stronger and Fairer America, which will be released in November. The book is about the importance of apprenticeship as an option for education and its potential impact on the American workforce.
The psychology of retirement
Season 2 Episode 30
When it comes to making plans for retirement, many people focus their time and energy on the financial aspects – investments, taxes, insurance, estate plans, health care and more. But what about the psychological impact of retiring? In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planners Isabel Barrow and Andy Smith explore the stressors of retirement and what you can do to help reduce stress and live the comfortable retirement you deserve. Then, Dr. Riley Moynes, retired educator and author of The Four Phases of Retirement: What to Expect When You’re Retiring, joins the conversation to shed light on what the four phases are and how to help navigate them in a healthy way.
Estate planning for people with disabilities
Season 2 Episode 29
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 out of every 36 children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean is joined by wealth planner Isabel Barrow and a director of estate planning Erin Smith, to detail the financial and legal challenges that families of children with special needs face and discuss options to consider to help navigate them. Later in the episode, Jean talks to Gordon Hartman, the founder of Morgan’s Wonderland, the world’s first fully accessible and inclusive theme park, which was inspired by his daughter Morgan, who lives with special needs.
Insurance policies that you do and don’t need
Season 2 Episode 28
This episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™ is, as Jean describes it, “everything you ever needed to know about insurance but didn’t know enough to ask.” Jean is joined by wealth planner Isabel Barrow and insurance expert Rob Bain from Edelman Financial Engines, to break down which policies you should have, like long-term care, life insurance and disability. And which ones you probably don’t need. They also cover lesser-known policies, like umbrella insurance, and bust a few myths along the way.
How to foster financial intimacy
Season 2 Episode 27
One of the most important aspects of a relationship is honesty, especially when it comes to money. That’s because being honest about your finances can lead to a new type of affection – financial intimacy. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean is joined by wealth planners Isabel Barrow and Andy Smith to talk about all the ways a planner can help couples overcome challenges, improve communication and create intimacy. Later in the episode, Kathleen Burns Kingsbury, a wealth psychology expert and author, joins the conversation to discuss how couples can break the money silence and help improve relationships by identifying and comparing money beliefs.
2023 summer trends and financial tips
Season 2 Episode 26
Summer is in full swing and this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™ is filled with advice on how to help maximize your summer vacation, fun budget and wealth. From travel hotspots to home renovations that can give you the best return on investment, Jean and wealth planner Andy Smith talk about how to make the most of your summer without breaking the bank. Later in the episode, Emily Kaufman – aka The Travel Mom – joins Jean and Andy to discuss current trends, like multigenerational travel, vacationing with a purpose and how to help make your money go further.
Who do you call when life comes calling?
Season 2 Episode 25
Why would you hire a financial planner? In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean is joined by wealth planner Andy Smith to discuss the known and lesser-known reasons. From getting married and having a baby to divorce and retirement, learn how a planner can help you. Then, Jean interviews Ryan Frederick, the founder and CEO of Here (Formerly Smart Living 360), about how to help improve your lifespan, health span and wealth span.
What you need to know about 401k management
Season 2 Episode 24
Whether you are considering retiring, unretiring or changing jobs, deciding what to do with the money in your 401k is a big decision. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, wealth planner Isabel Barrow joins Jean to discuss your options and the pros and cons of each. Then, Jessica DeBold, director of advanced planning strategies and tools at Edelman Financial Engines, gives insight into potential ways to implement a tax-efficient withdrawal strategy to generate income in retirement from an IRA.
Investment and market insights
Season 2 Episode 23
With the recent firestorm in the news claiming the U.S. dollar is losing its status as the world’s primary reserve currency, many people are questioning their investments. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planner Andy Smith talk about where the dollar stands on a global scale and why there’s no need to panic. Later, Neil Gilfedder, chief investment officer of Edelman Financial Engines, joins the discussion to shed light on what’s really going on in the economy and the philosophy behind our unique approach to investing.
Everyday wealth in America
Season 2 Episode 22
Now more than ever, your financial life is deeply connected to your everyday life. To explore how Americans define wealth in the context of the world around them, Edelman Financial Engines partnered with Greenwald Research to examine critical topics that sit squarely at the intersection of life and money, such as family relationships, retirement goals and wealth transfer. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean talks with Jason Van de Loo, executive vice president and co-chief client officer at Edelman Financial Engines, about the results of the Everyday Wealth in America 2022 Report, and the challenges that Americans face when it comes to having discussions about money. Later in the episode, wealth planner Isabel Barrow joins Jean and Jason to discuss why 83% of survey respondents said they stress less because of their financial planner and the tactical ways in which a planner can help.
We need to talk about annuities
Season 2 Episode 21
When approaching retirement, there are many big questions you must answer. One of the most important is how do you create reliable income from your savings and investments without running out of money? For an increasing number of people, this means including annuities as part of a retirement income plan. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planner Isabel Barrow define what annuities are and if they’re right for everyone. Then, Kelly O’Donnell, executive vice president, and co-chief client officer at Edelman Financial Engines, joins the conversation to provide insight on annuities in the workplace and the SECURE 2.0 Act. Later, Jean talks with Robert Bain, who leads the insurance team at Edelman Financial Engines, about the pros and cons of equity-indexed annuities and the complex details that surround them.
What’s wrong with health care?
Season 2 Episode 20
May is National Nurses Month, and this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™ is all about health care. Jean and Erin Smith, the director of estate planning at Edelman Financial Engines, answer an email from a nurse who wants clarity on naming a health care power of attorney. Then, Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Isabel Barrow joins Jean to break down different options for health care coverage, including Medicare, and ways a financial planner can help reduce costs. Later, Jean interviews hospice physician and author Jordan Grumet, aka Doc G, about physician burnout and what physicians, nurses and others working in health care can do to lessen their stress and develop new income streams to supplement their income.
How much insurance do you need?
Season 2 Episode 19
Buying insurance can be confusing, but it’s an important process to help protect yourself and your loved ones. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planner Andy Smith discuss how to determine how much life insurance you may need using a simple formula. They also dive into disability insurance and the types of policies and costs associated with it. Later, Robert Bain, the insurance senior manager at Edelman Financial Engines, joins the podcast to explain the ins and outs of long-term care insurance and why it’s so important to have, given that more than 55 million Americans are expected to require long-term care in the next 30 years.
6 retirement income strategies
Season 2 Episode 18
You spent your lifetime working hard, diligently saving and investing money to secure your financial future. But when it’s time for retirement, how do you schedule your income in a way that preserves your wealth as long as you need it to? The right strategy can help you manage taxes and maintain the standard of living you’ve been planning for. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planner Isabel Barrow discuss the potential risks to your retirement income. Later in the episode, Jean and Isabel are joined by Jessica DeBold, the director of advanced planning strategy and tools with Edelman Financial Engines, to explain strategies that may help optimize your retirement income plan.
What is a backdoor Roth IRA?
Season 2 Episode 17
Along with retirement plans at your workplace like a 401(k) or 403(b), IRAs have become the cornerstone of modern retirement. There are two types of IRAs - traditional and Roth - and the goals of these two accounts are similar - save for and fund your retirement - but they differ in some important ways. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean breaks down what those differences are and how a backdoor Roth may be a valuable tool to help with estate planning and wealth transfer. Later in the episode, Jean is joined by wealth planner Andy Smith to answer a listener’s question about when to do a backdoor Roth conversion and how it could help reduce her tax bite.
The perils of eschewing estate planning
Season 2 Episode 16
Even though 2 out of 3 people believe you should have a will by age 55 or sooner, less than half of people 55 or older actually have one, according to Caring.com’s 2023 Wills Survey. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planner Isabel Barrow discuss why it's essential to have plans in place in order to pass on your wealth and legacy to the next generation and some common pitfalls to avoid. Later in the episode, Jean and Isabel answer an email from a listener about gifting, and are then joined by Erin Smith, the director of estate planning at Edelman Financial Engines, to talk about what specifically your estate plan should include and how often it should be updated.
Cash is trash. Or is it king?
Season 2 Episode 15
Over the last decade, because of the zero interest rate policy set by the Federal Reserve, you weren't paid anything to hold cash since ZIRP ensured cash yielded essentially nothing. In fact, after subtracting for inflation, you were losing money if you held cash, hence the phrase – cash is trash. But with the Fed increasing short-term interest rates over the last 12 months and yields on cash-equivalent investments as high as they’ve been in more than a decade, is cash king again? In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planner Isabel Barrow tackle that question and discuss what to do and not do with your cash reserves. Later in the episode, Bill Tracy, portfolio manager for Edelman Financial Engines, weighs in on what’s going on with the recent bank collapses and how to help protect your investments.
Are your taxes going up?
Season 2 Episode 14
Unfortunately, the end of some pandemic-era tax breaks is likely the beginning of tax hikes over the next few years. The big reason is because the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act begins sunsetting next year and many of its provisions are scheduled to expire in 2025. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean is joined by wealth planner Isabel Barrow to explore who may face tax increases and to share 11 strategies to start using right now to help reduce your tax burden in the years ahead. Later in the episode, Jessica DeBold, director of advanced planning strategy and tools with Edelman Financial Engines, joins the conversation to discuss tax-smart withdrawal strategies for your retirement accounts designed to help improve your tax situation.
Financial planning for single people
Season 2 Episode 13
Single people face a unique set of challenges when it comes to financial planning. Jean is joined by wealth planner Rose Niang in this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, to discuss those challenges, including health care, emergency funds and retirement planning, and how to help navigate them. Later in the episode, Erin Smith, director of estate planning at Edelman Financial Engines, joins the conversation to explain the biggest considerations that single people have to make when it comes to estate planning, and which important documents are essential to have in place when you’re single.
4 Risks of retirement
Season 2 Episode 12
You work hard saving and investing most of your adult life so that you can have the retirement of your dreams, but there are financial risks that could derail your plans. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planner Rose Niang explain what those risks are and how to help protect your retirement. Then, Jean is joined by Dr. Ken Dychtwald, the country's foremost expert on aging and author of 19 books on the subject, including his memoir, Radical Curiosity: One Man's Search for Cosmic Magic and a Purposeful Life, to discuss the risk of outliving your money and how having a financial advisor can help.
A deep dive into when to claim Social Security
Season 2 Episode 11
When it comes to claiming Social Security benefits, there are many questions with no easy answers. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean is joined by wealth planner Andy Smith to help break down how to get the most out of Social Security and when might be the best time to claim. Later in the episode, Jean interviews Marcia Mantell, author of What's the Deal with Social Security for Women? and Cooking Up Your Retirement Plan, about how claiming is a critical financial decision for women and why it’s essential to consider spousal benefits when claiming.
The role of finances in gray divorce
Season 2 Episode 10
Divorce rates have been steadily declining since the ‘90s for all age groups except for one – the baby boomers. This phenomenon of rising rates is referred to as gray divorce, and one of the main reasons for the rise is financial differences. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planners Andy Smith and Isabel Barrow explore what these financial differences are, including financial infidelity, and how a planner can help.
Last-minute tax tips
Season 2 Episode 9
The filing deadline to submit 2022 tax returns or an extension and pay taxes owed is Tuesday, April 18 and along with some important changes that you need to know about, there are also tax strategies you can still use to potentially help reduce your taxes. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean is joined by wealth planner Andy Smith to discuss last-minute tax tips to help you through this tax season. Later in the episode, Jean and Andy answer an email from a listener with a question about I bonds and taxes.
How to choose a financial advisor
Season 2 Episode 8
Despite the many reasons to get help from a financial advisor – especially in today’s climate – only 35% currently work with a financial professional. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planner Isabel Barrow talk to a listener who wants to choose the right financial advisor after going through a litigious divorce. Later in the episode, Jean and Isabel discuss considerations to make when you’re looking for a wealth planner and questions to ask to help you choose the right one.
Is the 60/40 portfolio dead?
Season 2 Episode 7
“Is the 60/40 portfolio dead”? That was a topic making big financial headlines in 2022. But so far this year, media outlets have been walking back on that sentiment. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean talks to Christine Benz, Morningstar's director of personal finance, about portfolio construction, the 4% rule, and what it all means for you. Later in the episode, wealth planner Isabel Barrow joins to discuss the ins and outs of sticking with a diversified portfolio.
Should we re-imagine retirement?
Season 2 Episode 6
When most people think of retirement, they think of slowing down. But it doesn’t have to be this way. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean talks with Michael Clinton, author of ROAR: into the second half of your life (Before It’s Too Late), about how to re-imagine retirement and make the most of it. Later in the episode, wealth planner Isabel Barrow joins the show to discuss what to consider when you change jobs later in life.
Retirement security and the SECURE 2.0 Act
Season 2 Episode 5
Retirement security has long been a top concern for this country. This past December, Congress passed the SECURE 2.0 Act, which contains a number of ways for Americans to save more for their retirement. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean is joined by wealth planner Andy Smith and Dr. Wei Hu, vice president of financial research for Edelman Financial Engines, to discuss retirement security opportunities and how they may help you save more for retirement, wait longer to take distributions, and even possibly utilize some tax-smart strategies.
REPLAY: Investing vs. speculation
Season 2 Episode 4
As markets continue their bumpy ride, some investors are looking to make back losses during the potential upswings – possibly taking on some excessive risk. In this episode of Everyday Wealth™, Jean Chatzky is joined by wealth planner Andy Smith to discuss the differences between speculation and investing, and how a wealth planner can help mitigate your risks. They also discuss whether it’s better to lease or buy a car in the current economy, and later in the episode, Dr. Wei Hu, vice president of financial research at Edelman Financial Engines, joins Jean and Andy for Investing Sense, where they talk about mental reference points that impact investing.
Navigating a challenging housing market
Season 2 Episode 3
As home prices and interest rates traveled through the roof this past year, many people want to know where the real estate housing market is headed next. This week on Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean is joined by economist Mark Zandi from Moody’s Analytics to do a deep dive on the housing market and to discuss what it will take for homebuying to feel manageable again. Later in the episode, Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner John McCafferty joins the conversation to talk about what a homebuyer should consider doing now and if renting might be a better idea.
Starting a small business or a side gig
Season 2 Episode 2
When you’re starting a small business or a side gig, there are many important factors to consider in order to help make it a success. This week on Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean is joined by Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Andy Smith as she shares her journey from side gigs to becoming a small-business owner and what she learned along the way. Later in the episode, Rich Lahijani a director, tax advisory and planning at Edelman Financial Engines, joins the conversation to talk about tax considerations, including what you typically can and can’t write off when you’re starting a small business or side gig.
Keeping your financial New Year’s resolutions
Season 2 Episode 1
It’s a new year, which also means it’s time for New Year’s resolutions and according to a recent survey, for 66% of Americans, the resolutions they made were financial. This week on Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean is joined by Sarah Newcomb, director of financial psychology at Morningstar, to talk about making financial New Year’s resolutions and how to stay on track when your will is tested. Later in the episode, Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Isabel Barrow joins Jean to provide some key areas that you may want to focus on that can help you with building wealth in this new year.
REPLAY: Aging: A family matter
Season 1 Episode 53
In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines' Everyday Wealth, Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky are joined by Nora Super, the executive director of the Milken Institute Center for the Future of Aging, to discuss the link between healthy longevity and financial wellness. Later in the episode, Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Jason Cowans joins Jean and Soledad to continue the theme of aging, with discussions on planning for future health-care costs and living trusts.
REPLAY: What type of investor are you?
Season 1 Episode 52
For most people, 2022 has been a perfect storm of high inflation, aggressive rate hikes, volatile markets, worries of recession… and just about everything else that makes investors run for the hills. This week on Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Soledad, Jean and wealth planner Andy Smith will put the markets into context, and – hopefully – provide a bit of perspective about what we’re experiencing right now in the economy. Later in the episode, the hosts discuss two types of investors – those who chase returns and those who work toward a clear set of goals, and why one typically leads to better outcomes. They’ll also explore what to do at different stages and phases of life to help protect your wealth.
Tying up loose financial ends
Season 1 Episode 51
With so many priorities competing for our attention, it’s easy to overlook opportunities that come up this time of the year that can help with your financial plan. This week on Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, wealth planner Jason Cowans joins Jean and Soledad to review a few important financial steps you can consider taking before ringing in the new year. Also in this episode, when a loved one passes away, financial decisions can often make the grieving process even more challenging. The hosts discuss the emotional and financial aspects of losing someone you love, and steps you can take to help make the process a little easier.
Financial considerations for the holiday season
Season 1 Episode 50
We’re quickly approaching the holiday season, which means time for family, friends, shopping … and scams. According to the FBI, every year, thousands of people become victims of holiday scams, which can rob you of hard-earned money, personal information and your festive mood. This week on Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean, Soledad and wealth planner John McCafferty talk about the different scams to be aware of and how to help protect yourself against them. Later in the episode, since it’s near year-end and many people have questions about minimizing potential tax liability, the hosts and wealth planner Isabel Barrow take a call from listener Bernie, who has a question about using a Qualified Charitable Donation to his alma mater. Then, it’s the season for gift giving, and Soledad, Jean and Edelman Financial Engines planner Jason Cowans discuss how your holiday purchases can serve a bigger purpose – specifically, with gifts that support charities or help a loved one with important financial goals.
Facing financial challenges
Season 1 Episode 49
According to a recent industry survey, Americans today think they’ll need roughly $1.25 million to retire comfortably. But the average amount of savings in retirement accounts has actually dropped by 11% over the same time frame. So how much do you need to retire? This week on Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean, Soledad and wealth planner Rose Niang discuss why chasing a number is never a good idea and how a planner can help you figure out what’s best for you. Later in the episode, the hosts talk about caring for an aging parent and the benefit of having a trusted advisor to help you navigate the difficult conversations that the scenario brings. Then, Jean, Soledad and Rose dive into the unique set of financial challenges facing couples who are cohabiting but not married.
REPLAY: Building First Generation Wealth
Season 1 Episode 48
According to recent studies, the majority of millionaires in the U.S. are self-made. They didn’t inherit their money, they earned it, and most are the first generation in their family to do so. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean, Soledad, and wealth planner Brian Leslie discuss the unique challenges of first-generation wealth and how you can pass on the traits that helped build it to future generations. Later, many people retired during the pandemic and are now regretting their decision because they didn’t take into account how the down markets, inflation, and higher interest rates would affect their retirement plans. Now some are thinking about taking their social security early. The hosts break down why that could be a costly mistake. Finally, Dr. Wei Hu, vice president of financial research at Edelman Financial Engines, joins the hosts for Investing Sense, to talk about what hindsight bias is and how it could be affecting your assessment of your investments.
How bad is it REALLY out there?
Season 1 Episode 47
There’s a lot of hype in the news about 2023 and the economic turmoil we may be facing. However, another way to think about it is that we actually may be on the path to normalization. This week on Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean, Soledad, and wealth planner John McCafferty will discuss the economic forces that are impacting all of us right now, and shed some light on why it may not be as ominous as we think. Later in the episode, Christopher Jones, chief investment officer for Edelman Financial Engines, joins the hosts to discuss how EFE factors in market swings when constructing its portfolios – which can help clients through these periods of uncertainty.
What type of investor are you?
Season 1 Episode 46
For most people, 2022 has been a perfect storm of high inflation, aggressive rate hikes, volatile markets, worries of recession… and just about everything else that makes investors run for the hills. This week on Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Soledad, Jean and wealth planner Andy Smith will put the markets into context, and – hopefully – provide a bit of perspective about what we’re experiencing right now in the economy. Later in the episode, the hosts discuss two types of investors – those who chase returns and those who work toward a clear set of goals, and why one typically leads to better outcomes. They’ll also explore what to do at different stages and phases of life to help protect your wealth.
REPLAY: You’re retired (or almost retired) … now what?
Season 1 Episode 45
When you’re approaching retirement, you have to make many decisions that will affect your finances – either positively or negatively. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planner Isabel Barrow discuss some of the most important decisions that could cost you if you don’t plan for them, including what to do with your mortgage, and what to consider before traveling . Later, the end of the year is coming and so are opportunities to harvest some of your losses to help save you money on taxes. Jean and Isabel talk about what tax-loss harvesting is and how it may help you.
Is everything broken?
Season 1 Episode 44
Record inflation, aggressive rate hikes and a gloomy financial forecast for 2023 – not much seems to be going right in today’s economic climate. So what effect do these financial headwinds have on our own “personal economies”? This week on Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Soledad, Jean and wealth planner Isabel Barrow will be talking about why you should consider sticking with a diversified portfolio through unsettling times. Later in the episode, with midterms around the corner and the markets weighing heavily on our minds, investors may be wondering if they should be adjusting their portfolios to prepare for election results. The hosts discuss the historical impacts of the elections on the markets and what to do and not do to help protect your wealth.
End-of-year ‘to-do’s’ – Medicare and charitable giving
Season 1 Episode 43
During Medicare enrollment, there are many decisions to make that could cost you a lot if you don’t choose wisely. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean, Soledad and wealth planner Rose Niang explain the intricacies of Medicare plans and what you need to know to help you make the best decisions. Later in the episode, charitable giving is good for charities and it also could be good for your personal economy. The hosts discuss giving in a tax-efficient way and how a donor-advised fund can help.
Leaving a legacy
Season 1 Episode 42
There are plenty of ways that inflation may have a negative impact on our finances, but there may be a silver lining. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines' Everyday Wealth™, Jean, Soledad and Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Isabel Barrow break down what may be some positive news when it comes time to pay your taxes. Next, the hosts tackle the challenges of leaving a legacy from first generation wealth – from how to know if you have enough to where to start once you do. Later, Dr. Wei Hu, vice president of financial research at Edelman Financial Engines, joins Soledad, Jean and Isabel for Investing Sense, to talk about what hindsight bias is and how it could be affecting your assessment of your investments.
Building First Generation Wealth
Season 1 Episode 41
According to recent studies, the majority of millionaires in the U.S. are self-made. They didn’t inherit their money, they did it the hard way. They earned it, and most are the first generation in their family to do so. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean, Soledad, and wealth planner Brian Leslie discuss the unique challenges of first-generation wealth and how you can pass on the traits that helped build it to future generations.
You’re retired (or almost retired) … now what?
Season 1 Episode 40
When you’re approaching retirement, you have to make many decisions that will affect your finances – either positively or negatively. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Jean and wealth planner Isabel Barrow discuss some of the most important decisions that could cost you if you don’t plan for them, including what to do with your mortgage, and what to consider before traveling . Later, the end of the year is coming and so are opportunities to harvest some of your losses to help save you money on taxes. Jean and Isabel talk about what tax-loss harvesting is and how it may help you.
Sudden wealth: a blessing or a curse?
Season 1 Episode 39
Even in the toughest financial times, you can get a windfall of money and have no idea what to do with it. In this episode of Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Soledad, Jean and wealth planner Jason Cowans talk about what to do if you’re one of those lucky people who come into sudden wealth – either through an inheritance, a divorce or lawsuit settlements, or even the lottery – to help make the most of your money.
Fear of Missing Out
Season 1 Episode 38
As fall approaches, many people are feeling the need to do something before the end of the year, both personally and financially. This week on Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday WealthTM, Jean, Soledad and Edelman Financial Engines’ planner John McCafferty discuss the opportunities you don’t want to miss out on on your financial planning checklist heading into the final stretch of the year including your year end financial review, open enrollment, 401k contributions, and what to do if you’re offered an early retirement package. Later in the episode, there’s a sneak peek of Edelman Financial Engines’ upcoming webinar “The Economic Storm of 2022 and Your Wealth” hosted by Jean Chatzky, where you’ll get timely insights into today's market situation.
Why you should be interested in interest rates
Season 1 Episode 37
The fed continues to work on lowering inflation rates, using interest rate hikes as a method for cooling the economy. As a result, markets tumbled. Now analysts and investors are trying to predict the size of the next Fed hike coming later in September, and the market will move day to day as it tries to price in those potential hikes. This week on Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday WealthTM, Jean, Soledad, and Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Rose Niang will be discussing why we should be interested in rising interest rates and what the upsides are, if any. They’ll also discuss lump sum pensions, when to buy big ticket items, and whether or not buying a second home can help hedge against inflation.
How to plan to retire in a bear market
Season 1 Episode 36
Given the current state of the economy, with high inflation, market volatility, and overall financial stress, many retirees are reconsidering their retirement out of fear that they may outlive their wealth. In this encore presentation of Everyday Wealth™ from July 30, 2022, Jean and Soledad are joined by Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Isabel Barrow to discuss how retirement is changing and what considerations to make when retiring in a bear market, including partial retirement, withdrawal strategies, and more.
Moments that matter
Season 1 Episode 35
Many times in life, people have a sound financial plan – and then BOOM – something unexpectedly disrupts it. From positive experiences like the birth of a new child or changing jobs later in life, to the not so positive ones, like unexpected health scares, these are the times where having your financial house in order matters most. This week on Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth™, Soledad, Jean and Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Jason Cowans walk through these moments and demonstrate how a wealth planner can help you better prepare for the unexpected.
Investing vs. speculation
Season 1 Episode 34
As markets continue their bumpy ride, some investors are looking to make back losses during the potential upswings – possibly taking on some excessive risk. In this episode of Everyday Wealth™, Jean Chatzky is joined by wealth planner Andy Smith to discuss the differences between speculation and investing, and how a wealth planner can help mitigate your risks. They also discuss whether it’s better to lease or buy a car in the current economy, and later in the episode, Dr. Wei Hu, vice president of financial research at Edelman Financial Engines, joins Jean and Andy for Investing Sense, where they talk about mental reference points that impact investing.
Recession or recession-ish? Bear markets or bear-ish?
Season 1 Episode 33
The true definition of a recession is technically two back-to back quarters of gross domestic product contraction. In our last episode, we settled on “recession-ish” because, while there was a contraction of the economy, other inputs, like jobs numbers, are still strong. Jean Chatzky and Soledad O’Brien are joined by William Lee, chief economist with the Milken Institute, to discuss what’s really going on and how a white-collar recession could differ from a blue-collar recession. And it’s that time of year when parents are sending their kids off to college, maybe for the first time. Erin Smith, director of estate planning at Edelman Financial Engines, walks Jean and Soledad through what you shouldn’t forget to send with your kids to college.
Can money buy happiness … even in a recession?
Season 1 Episode 32
The word recession has been all over the news lately. Inflation is high, our purchasing power is not, and we're all looking for a solution that can help us spend smarter or at least spend in a way that doesn't make us cringe. In this episode, Jean and Soledad are joined by Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Rose Niang to talk about what a recession would mean for investors and how to not get distressed by the headlines. Later in the episode, Soledad and Jean interview Michael Norton, co-author of Happy Money: The Science of Happier Spending, about how you can get more happiness for your money.
How to plan to retire in a bear market
Season 1 Episode 31
Given the current state of the economy, with high inflation, market volatility, and overall financial stress, many retirees are reconsidering their retirement out of fear that they may outlive their wealth. In this episode of Everyday Wealth™, Jean and Soledad are joined by Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Isabel Barrow to discuss how retirement is changing and what considerations to make when retiring in a bear market, including partial retirement, withdrawal strategies, and more.
Taking advantage of bear markets
Season 1 Episode 30
With all of the economic turmoil and volatility lately, many investors are left wondering what to do with their wealth. In this episode of Everyday Wealth™, Soledad O’Brien is joined by analyst Jake Novak to share what’s happening in financial news and what it actually means for investors. Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Brian Leslie joins Soledad to provide tactical steps people can take in a bear market. Later in the episode, as a part of our new monthly segment called Investing Sense, Dr. Wei Hu, vice president of financial research for Edelman Financial Engines, explains how behavior such as narrow framing can get in an investor’s way.
Conquering financial stress and anxiety
Season 1 Episode 29
Given the current state of the economy, all of the talk about a potential recession, rising inflation and interest rates, as well as market volatility, it’s no wonder that financial stress is on the rise. So how do we conquer it? In this episode of Everyday Wealth™, Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Andy Smith joins Jean and Soledad to discuss how a wealth planner can help lessen the stress. Later, Jean and Soledad talk to financial therapist Amanda Clayman about how to feel more balanced and less stressed when it comes to your finances.
Rethinking estate planning
Season 1 Episode 28
Today’s headlines are full of what the markets are doing due to inflation, rising interest rates and the possibility of a recession. We’re also in the midst of the biggest wealth transfer in history and we need to pay attention to the longer-term items that are important to help build and preserve wealth, like estate planning. In this episode of Everyday Wealth™, Jean and Soledad are joined by estate planning attorney and author David York to examine wealth transfer through a new purpose-driven lens. Later in the episode, Jean and Soledad are joined by Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Rose Niang to discuss considerations to make when you’re leaving an inheritance.
Are we headed for a recession? (Rebroadcast from 6/4/22)
Season 1 Episode 27
With all of the market volatility in recent weeks, along with inflation and interest rate increases, lots of people are wondering if we’re headed for a recession and how to protect their wealth. In this encore episode of Everyday Wealth™ from June 4, 2022, Jean and Soledad are joined by Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics, to discuss how likely a recession is, and how to consider investing during a recession. Later in the episode, Jean and Soledad talk to John McCafferty, a wealth planner at Edelman Financial Engines, about whether preparing for a recession means moving investments to cash.
Is the 60/40 portfolio dead? And obstacles to building wealth.
Season 1 Episode 26
With recent inflation and interest rate increases and continuing market volatility, more and more people have been predicting a recession. In this episode of Everyday Wealth™, Jean and Soledad are joined by Christopher Jones, chief investment officer at Edelman Financial Engines, to discuss what investment strategies are working in these volatile times and if the 60/40 portfolio is dead. Later in the episode, Jean and Soledad are joined by Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Brian Leslie to talk about the obstacles that can get in the way of building wealth.
Understanding inflation and what you can do
Season 1 Episode 25
It seems like everything is more expensive these days – from gas to groceries, and it’s all due to inflation. In this episode of Everyday Wealth™, Jean and Soledad are joined by Christopher Jones, chief investment officer at Edelman Financial Engines, to discuss why prices are so high and what consumers and investors can do to help protect their wealth. Isabel Barrow, a wealth planner from Edelman Financial Engines, also joins Jean and Soledad later in the episode to discuss personal inflation rates and strategies to consider as consumers and investors.
Housing: The market forecast, renovating and taxes
Season 1 Episode 24
For more than a year it’s been a crazy seller’s market. But now interest rates are rising, and we are starting to hear murmurings of the potential “heat of the market” cooling just a bit. Or maybe it’s not. In this episode of Everyday Wealth™, Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics, joins Jean and Soledad to discuss the housing market forecast and what buyers and sellers should consider. Later in the episode, Brian Leslie, a wealth planner from Edelman Financial Engines, joins the show to discuss home improvements and renovations and potential tax deductions.
Is a recession inevitable?
Season 1 Episode 23
Since the beginning of the year, we’ve seen the markets go down, and there’s some speculation that we may be headed for a recession. In this episode, Jean and Soledad are joined by Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics, to discuss how likely a recession is, and how to consider investing during a recession. Later in the episode, Jean and Soledad talk to John McCafferty, a wealth planner at Edelman Financial Engines, about whether or not preparing for a recession means moving investments to cash.
Aging and Partial retirement
Season 1 Episode 22
In this episode of Everyday Wealth, Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky interview bestselling author and founder of Age Wave, Dr. Ken Dychtwald about life’s third age and how retirees can make the most of their time. Later in the episode, Jean and Soledad dig into the topic of partial retirement with Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner John McCafferty.
Financial and estate planning for blended families
Season 1 Episode 21
Nearly half of U.S. families are blended – where at least one of the partners has been married before and is bringing children into their new relationships. So it’s quite common but can also be quite complex when it comes to finances and figuring out what’s “yours, mine and ours.” In this episode of Everyday Wealth™, Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky are joined by Erin Smith, director of estate planning, and wealth planner Jason Cowans, from Edelman Financial Engines to discuss the financial obstacles that blending families create and how to help navigate them. Later in the show, Jean, Soledad and Jason discuss whether it’s a good time to buy the dip.
Planning and saving for college
Season 1 Episode 20
We’re approaching graduation season so, in this episode of Everyday Wealth, Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky explore the topic of planning and saving for college. Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Rose Niang joins the conversation to discuss financial aid, scholarships and the best and worst ways to pay for college. Later in the episode, Jean, Soledad and Rose talk to a caller who has a question about 529 plans, and then Jean walks through her book How to Money.
Inflation, I bonds, HSAs and inherited IRAs
Season 1 Episode 19
In this episode of Everyday Wealth, Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky are joined by Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Brian Leslie to discuss different investment vehicles for your money, including I bonds, Treasury Inflation-Protected Security bonds, health savings accounts and more. Later in the episode, Jean, Soledad and Brian talk to a caller who has a question about what to do with an inherited IRA.
Small business: The backbone of our economy
Season 1 Episode 18
This week’s episode of Everyday Wealth celebrates Small Business Week, with Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky sharing their personal experiences of building their own small businesses, including great tips and lessons they’ve learned and mistakes they’ve made along the way. Later in the episode, Jean and Soledad are joined by Director of the Retirement Plans Division at Edelman Financial Engines, Jim Marx, and Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Isabel Barrow to discuss 401(k)s and retirement plans for small-business owners.
The impacts of climate on economies and ESG investing
Season 1 Episode 17
In honor of Earth Day, the topic of climate change is tackled in this episode of Everyday Wealth. Listen as Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky talk about how different sectors are affected by the current crisis and what it means for investors. Later in the episode, Jean and Soledad are joined by Senior Vice President of Portfolio Management at Edelman Financial Engines Neil Gilfedder and Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner John McCafferty to discuss ESG investing.
The road to empty nesting
Season 1 Episode 16
This episode of Everyday Wealth with Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky is a journey through the different phases of having an adult child. Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Brian Leslie joins the conversation to answer a listener’s question about 529 plans and how to prepare for boomerang kids after college. Later in the show, Jean and Soledad explore downsizing your home after the kids finally leave with Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Rose Niang.
Aging: A family matter
Season 1 Episode 15
We’re continuing our series on aging in this episode of Everyday Wealth, Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky are joined by Nora Super, the executive director of the Milken Institute Center for the Future of Aging, to discuss the link between healthy longevity and financial wellness. Later in the episode, Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Jason Cowans joins Jean and Soledad to continue the theme of aging, with discussions on planning for future health-care costs and living trusts.
Aging: Reinventing retirement
Season 1 Episode 14
In this episode of Everyday Wealth, Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky kick off a new series on aging, starting with an interview with bestselling author and founder of Age Wave, Dr. Ken Dychtwald. Later in the episode, Jean and Soledad dig into the topic of phased retirement with Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner John McCafferty.
Preparing and prospering
Season 1 Episode 13
Interest rate hikes have everybody talking lately and wondering what to do to prepare. In this episode of Everyday Wealth, Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky, along with Edelman Engines wealth planner Rose Niang, discuss what preparations to make and not make in this rising interest rate environment. Later in the show, they discuss the ins and outs of tax-loss harvesting, as well as tips on changing jobs later in life.
Discipline and courage in changing times
Season 1 Episode 12
With talk of a recession on the rise, Everyday WealthTM hosts Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky, along with Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner Brian Leslie, CFP®, discuss how to deal with concerns and help protect your wealth in these uncertain times. Listen as they also address the rise of social influencers and the impact they have on the financial world. Later in the show, Edelman Financial Engines Vice President of Financial Research Wei Hu joins the conversation to offer a sneak peek into the March webinar, 6 tax-smart investment strategies.
Navigating through uncertain times
Season 1 Episode 10
In this episode of Everyday Wealth, Wei Hu, vice president of financial research at Edelman Financial Engines, joins hosts Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky to explore the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on the current economic situation and how it affects us here at home. Also, Edelman Financial Engines wealth planner John McCafferty joins the conversation to discuss investing tips for women as well as Roth conversions.
The intersection of love and money
Season 1 Episode 9
Is money the key to happiness or is it open communication about money? Edelman Financial Engines planner John McCafferty joins hosts Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky to talk about money and how it can impact every aspect of a relationship – from the first date to financial infidelity. Plus, a look at the latest geopolitical news and how much stock is too much stock?
Protecting your wealth
Season 1 Episode 8
In this episode of Everyday Wealth, hosts Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky are joined by FBI Special Agent Wayne Jacobs to talk about elder fraud and how to help protect your loved ones from being scammed. Later, Edelman Financial Engines planner Jason Cowans joins the conversation to explore how to help protect your wealth using tax-efficient withdrawal strategies.
Financial planning for special needs
Season 1 Episode 7
The topic of financial planning for families with special needs is tackled in this episode of Everyday Wealth. Listen as Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky talk with Director of Estate Planning Rodney Weaver and financial planner Jennifer Staben from Edelman Financial Engines, to address this important issue, along with exploring the ins and outs of Social Security.
Managing financial stress in volatile times
Season 1 Episode 6
This episode of Everyday Wealth is dedicated to helping you deal with financial stresses, like market volatility. Listen in as Soledad O’Brien, Jean Chatzky and Edelman Financial Engines Planner Rose Niang address this important issue, with a focus on the potential for a bear market, taming our lizard brain and tax planning.
Market volatility and what it means for you
Season 1 Episode 5
It’s been a roller coaster of a month so far and hosts Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky bring in Dr. Wei Hu, vice president of financial research at Edelman Financial Engines, to tell us what we need to know about inflation, interest rates, tech stocks and more. Also in this episode, Edelman Financial Engines Planner Isabel Barrow joins the show to shed some light on charitable donations and building a legacy for your family.
An economist’s take on what’s happening today
Season 1 Episode 4
In this week’s episode, Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky talk to economist and bestselling author Larry Kotlikoff about inflation, when to take social security and when to invest, all of which might surprise you. Then later in the episode, Edelman Financial Engines Planner Brian Leslie talks to Jean and Soledad about homeownership and different approaches to mortgages, how much life insurance you actually need and more.
Investing: The importance of diversification
Season 1 Episode 3
Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky, along with Edelman Financial Engines Planner John McCafferty, talk about the risks of going it alone when it comes to investing on this episode of Everyday Wealth. Listen as they discuss topics, such as investing trends, caring for aging parents and what to do with a year-end bonus.
Growing and protecting wealth goes beyond the markets and the economy
Season 1 Episode 2
Soledad O’Brien and Jean Chatzky, accompanied by Edelman Financial Engines Planner Andy Smith, take on perception vs. reality when it comes to helping grow and protect everyday wealth. Listen as they also discuss retirement withdrawal strategies and the do’s and don’ts of estate planning and making a will.
New year, new financial opportunities
Season 1 Episode 1
Soledad O'Brien and Jean Chatzky kick off 2022, accompanied by Edelman Financial Engines planner, Jason Cowans, on the inaugural episode of Everyday Wealth. Listen as they discuss areas that could impact your wealth, from the Great Resignation and inflation to creating tactical New Year’s financial resolutions.