113: Cutting Through the Noise To Make Better Investment Decisions in 2026

It’s that time of year when everyone talks about getting “in shape”—but with nonstop fear-mongering headlines, economic uncertainty, and market volatility, the more important question is: how much risk are you willing to take when the outlook feels tenuous and unstable?  In this episode, Ed and LeAnne cut through the noise and explain why your long-term plan matters more than ever. Ed unpacks what’s driving the current environment—from tariffs and geopolitical tension to interest rates, inflation, and the national debt—and explains why the market often moves ahead of what the Federal Reserve says it will do.  By the end, Ed brings the conversation home by reminding everyone to focus on what you can control: building a diversified portfolio that matches your risk, defining the true purpose of your money, and creating a plan that helps you stay confident through volatility. In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:  How “doom scrolling” can distort your view of the economy and your retirement decisions. How inflation, GDP growth, and interest rates interact and why rates don’t always fall when the Fed cuts. What servicing the national debt means for long-term fiscal pressure and market expectations. Why Ed believes a well-balanced portfolio is more important than ever right now. How to define your “purpose” for money and use it to determine the right level of risk for your plan. How Fit Is Your Retirement Plan?  We can help you manage your finances so you can pursue your goals. To learn more, visit EGSIFinancial.com