Common Sense Financial Podcast
by Brian Skrobonja
The Common Sense Financial Podcast is all about finances, mindset and personal growth. The goal is to help you make smart choices with your money in your home and in your business. Some of the podcasts here are historical in nature. They aired before July 1, 2022 and were previously approved by Kalos Capital. The views and statistics discussed in these shows are relevant to that time period and may not be relevant to current events. This is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual's situation. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Any references to protection, safety or lifetime income, generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investments. Insurance guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying abilities of the issuing carrier.
Episodes
-
Special Announcement: 3 Insights Every Investor Needs to Help Secure Their Financial Future
Brian Skrobonja closes out the year with a milestone episode that marks the final episode of 2025 and the conclusion of this version of the show. He shares the gratitude he feels for the listeners who have supported the mission, the team whose work brought each idea to life, and the recognition…
more -
Tax Deferred to Tax Free: Navigating Taxes in Retirement - Replay
In this milestone 100th episode of the Common Sense Financial Podcast, host Brian Skrobonja delves into the critical topic of managing taxes in retirement. The episode focuses on strategies for minimizing tax liabilities, especially for retirees with tax-deferred accounts facing potential hefty…
more -
Are You Prepared for the Evolution of Retirement? - Replay
In this podcast episode, Brian Skrobonja takes us on a thought-provoking journey through the evolving concept of retirement. As we dive into the past, present, and future of retirement, Brian helps us unravel the complexities of this modern-day concept which, though deeply ingrained in our…
more -
The Three Retirement Mindsets That Could Have A Negative Impact On Your Retirement Plans - Replay
In this episode, Brian Skrobonja goes over the three main retirement mindsets that could negatively impact your retirement plans. He sheds light on what most retirees get wrong about retirement planning, why being confident doesn't eliminate investment risks, and what to consider when hiring a...
-
Investing with Guardrails: The Rise of Defined Outcome ETFs and Structured Income Notes
Brian Skrobonja sits down with Phon Vilayoune to unpack buffered ETFs and income notes. Phon is the Founder and CEO of VETA Investment Partners, where they currently oversee over $5.5 billion in assets. They discuss the benefits of positioning your portfolio for growth and safety, how to protect...
-
My Story - Replay
In this podcast episode, Brian shares his remarkable journey from his parents' middle-class immigrant background to achieving financial freedom through decades of learning and building businesses. He recounts his early aspiration for an opulent lifestyle and the pivotal moment when he realized…
more -
The 5 Key Performance Indicators To Help Measure The Health Of Your Retirement Plan - Replay
In this episode we talk about the importance of using key performance indicators beyond just investment performance to gauge the health of one's retirement plan. There are five crucial data points that form the foundation of a successful retirement strategy: passive income, effective tax rate…
more -
Certificates of Deposit: What to Consider and How to Use Them - Replay
In this episode on Certificates of Deposit (CDs) as investments, we talk about the nuanced decision-making involved in purchasing CDs and whether or not CDs are good investments, particularly in a rising interest rate environment, and we explain why interest rates are the only factor you need to...
-
The Midlife Shift: How To Go from Surviving to Thriving
Brian Skrobonja talks about the hidden trap of survival mode: that quiet, familiar mindset that keeps you safe but small. He explains why so many people in midlife mistake control for security, and how shifting from a scarcity mindset to a mentality of abundance changes everything about how you...
-
Exploring Alternative Investments and Building a Long Term Vision - Replay
In this episode, Brian Skrobonja explains what alternative investments are and why they are the fastest route to growing your assets or retirement savings. He sheds light on how the most successful investors in the world keep getting wealthier and how to use an endowment like strategy to position...
-
How to Create Retirement Confidence - Replay
In this episode, we delve into the link between overall retirement quality and the confidence you have in your financial plan. We emphasize how a well-designed retirement strategy tailored to your needs, not solely reliant on market performance, is pivotal for boosting confidence and making your...
-
3 Factors to Consider Before Taking Your Social Security Benefits - Replay
The complexity of Social Security calculations can cause some confusion around when someone eligible should file and claim their benefit. There are a lot of variables to consider and acronyms to decipher that can make Social Security feel like a confusing hedge maze. Let's cut through some of the...
-
Rising Long-Term Care Costs: Strategies to Safeguard Your Retirement
Brian Skrobonja talks about one of the most overlooked pieces of retirement planning — long-term care. He explains why preparing for care isn't about being gloomy, it's about protecting your freedom and keeping control over the life you've worked so hard to build. Expect to learn how to help...
-
The 7 Indispensable Steps in Building Your Wealth Strategy - Replay
If you tune into social media, there are a lot of influencers and gurus peddling one-size-fits-all financial advice and unfortunately plenty of investors base their strategies on what these people recommend. Find out why basing your investment decisions on what's trending on TikTok is short…
more -
Top 2 Questions Answered - Replay
In this episode, Brian Skrobonja answers the top questions he receives from people looking for help with their financial plan. He sheds light on why a plan is more than just picking stocks, what most people get wrong about passive income, and the benefits of knowing how much tax liability you'll...
-
Hidden Tax Strategies, with CPA Tanner Adams - Replay
Most business owners come into the financial game as the quarterback. They're telling their CPA and financial advisor what they need and when they need it instead of working as a team to plan out a cohesive strategy. This needs to change. Listen to the latest episode of the podcast to learn why...
-
The 5 Billionaire Habits That Unlock Real Freedom
Brian Skrobonja talks about the five habits billionaires live by, habits you can use to create your own financial freedom. Tune in to hear the benefits of having ruthless focus, how frugality with purpose can actually give you more freedom, and why you need to start looking at your life in…
more -
Four Big Financial Planning Mistakes Business Owners Make - Replay
Entrepreneurs by nature are continuously occupied with running their business and wearing multiple hats throughout the day just to keep things running smoothly. Unfortunately, that leads entrepreneurs into making a number of common mistakes. Mistakes that damage the long-term success and…
more -
How SDLI Can Provide Flexibility - Replay
High income professionals face a unique situation when it comes to their retirement. You have the dual challenge of having your money tied up in your investments and also looming tax burdens once you retire. Listen to the latest episode of the podcast to learn about a Specially Designed Life...
-
Who Should Consider An Annuity? - Replay
The concept of investing is often associated only with money and the pursuit of wealth, but this Annuities are a popular thing these days… why is that the case? And are they a valid option for those planning their retirement? In this new episode of the Common Sense Financial Podcast, host Brian...
-
The Shocking Cost of College: How to Be Smart and Avoid a Tuition Trap
Brian Skrobonja talks about the real cost of college—and why most families are dangerously unprepared. Tune in to learn how to fund your child's education without sacrificing your retirement. Expect to hear eye-opening numbers, smarter strategies than 529 plans, and a flexible approach that keeps...
-
Defining A Diversified Portfolio - Replay
In this episode, Brian Skrobonja breaks down ways to save, grow, and invest your money. He sheds light on what a well-diversified portfolio looks like, the true definition of financial freedom, and why you need different mindsets for spending versus investing money. We all want the same thing…
more -
Investing in Your Ideal Future Self - Replay
The concept of investing is often associated only with money and the pursuit of wealth, but this fails to capture the true essence of investing. An ideal future isn't encapsulated by a stack of $100 bills. The true essence of investing is not about building wealth, but about building the...
-
An In-Depth Breakdown of Privatized Banking aka Build Banking - Replay
Many people accumulate their wealth in a bank or a long-term investment, and this may create problems. But there is a different strategy. In this new episode of the Common Sense Financial Podcast, host Brian Skrobonja goes over the Build Banking strategy and how you can consider a different…
more -
Top 10 Legacy Planning Mistakes That May Be Sabotaging Your Family's Future
Brian Skrobonja talks about the essentials of building a multi-generational legacy that lasts. He breaks down a blueprint rooted in time-tested principles and inspired by the same structural thinking used by families like the Rockefellers. Tune in to hear the assumptions that leave heirs...
-
Retirement Requires a Shift in Mindset - Replay
Time is your most precious resource, but how you use it is up to you. The shift from earning to retirement can be quite challenging, as you have to thread the needle between income, growth, and time. In this new episode of the Common Sense Financial Podcast, host Brian Skrobonja goes over the…
more -
Settling An Estate As An Executor - Replay
In this episode, Brian Skrobonja sheds light on the complex and often overwhelming process of managing an estate after the loss of a loved one. This is a step-by-step guide from the initial steps you need to take after a loved one passes, to the intricate details of settling an estate. Brian…
more -
Avoid Making These 5 Retirement Mistakes - Replay
"The more money you have, the bigger the mistakes," someone once told Brian… How does that translate into retirement planning? And how can you help ensure you approach your financial planning for your "golden years" in the best possible way? In this new episode of the Common Sense Financial...
-
Social Security: Understanding the Numbers and What Happens When One of You Passes?
Brian Skrobonja breaks down two retirement curveballs that most people don't see coming until it's too late. He covers how your Social Security decisions can make or break your retirement, and what really happens to your income when your spouse passes away. From the math behind claiming early...
-
6 Tips For Choosing the "Right Fit" Financial Advisor - Replay
Are you part of that 68% of people who would like to have a personalized financial plan, but aren't sure where to find a financial advisor? What should you pay attention to when trying to get a financial planning expert to help you, and you're evaluating different options? In this new episode of...
-
Make Health Planning Part of Your Retirement Planning, with Regan Archibald - Replay
You feel healthy so everything is okay, right? Have you ever thought that health planning should be part of your retirement planning efforts? If you've answered 'yes,' pay close attention to Regan Archibald! Regan joins host Brian Skrobonja to discuss how people should approach health planning…
more -
11 Tax Strategies for Business Owners That Ought Not Be Ignored
Brian Skrobonja breaks down 11 small business tax tips that could help you keep more of what you earn. He explains how the wealthy leverage these strategies, ways to apply them to your own business, and how being proactive now can save you thousands down the road. Tune in to discover practical...
-
The 4 Biggest Obstacles to Effective Estate Planning - Replay
Life when you're gone… an uncomfortable conversation most people prefer to avoid. Why isn't that a good idea? How can estate planning help you ensure that things are taken care of once you aren't around anymore? Listen to learn about big mistakes people make, the different elements that make up…
more -
Longevity: The Retirement Problem No One Is Discussing - Replay
Did you know that a good part of American households haven't thought about retirement planning? When it comes to planning for retirement, there are some key concepts to understand and three traps you should do your best to avoid. Listen to learn why a money increase doesn't always equal a…
more -
Different Approach of Financial Planning Addresses 'the Missing Middle' - Replay
Emergencies and retirement. This is what we're taught to save for. But what if you created a different system, which allowed you to pay for the expenses you will incur between now and retirement age – without losing the ability to build wealth? Find out why you may need to rethink your financial...
-
The Missing Link in Retirement Planning: Why Purpose Matters
Brian Skrobonja talks about the true meaning of purpose in retirement. He shares why aligning your financial strategy with your life's purpose is key to a fulfilling retirement and how purpose, not just money, impacts your longevity and satisfaction. Tune in to discover practical insights on...
-
An Innovative – and Life-Changing – Way to Look at Retirement, with Dean Jackson - Replay
What comes to mind when you think about retiring? Is it enjoying your "golden years?" That's an outdated approach, says today's guest Dean Jackson! He joins host Brian Skrobonja to discuss a new way to think about retirement – and how doing things this way will change your life – the concept of...
-
In Financial Planning, Consider Your 'Fuel Tank of Capability' - Replay
You can live without saving money, and you can live with debt, but you cannot live without cash flow. In fact, if you want your personal finance to flourish, cash flow is a key element you need to focus on – passive income too. Why is that the case? Find out about critical personal financing...
-
Q&A: Your Pressing Finance and Investing Questions Answered
Brian Skrobonja answers some of the most frequently asked questions about finances and investing. He covers how successful people approach liquidity, why traditional emergency funds may not be the best strategy, and how to store money with a purpose. Tune in to hear him challenge common financial...
-
2024 Pension Reforms: The Removal of WEP and GPO
Brian Skrobonja breaks down the repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). He covers how retirees can strategically use their lump sum to create long-term financial stability, the impact of the repeal on spousal and survivor benefits, and the…
more -
Create A Formula To Help Reduce Risk and Simplify Your Finances
Brian Skrobonja discusses the crucial role a well-defined investing strategy plays in making smarter financial decisions. He covers ways to create an investing framework you can follow, why blindly taking investing risks is a recipe for disaster, and ways to navigate financial decisions with...
-
How Prepared Are You For Retirement?
Brian Skrobonja goes through the five questions you need to answer to gauge how prepared you are for retirement. He covers the benefits of having a detailed income plan, how to design a comprehensive tax strategy, and what it takes to enjoy your retirement without constantly second-guessing your...
-
Year-End Tax Strategies
Brian Skrobonja shares practical tips on year-end tax planning so you can make informed decisions and take control of your financial future. He explains why now is the perfect time to assess your financial situation and the type of strategic moves you can make to reduce your tax liabilities,...
-
The Potential Ripple Effects of Taxing Unrealized Capital Gains
In this episode, Brian Skrobonja breaks down Kamala Harris' proposed tax plan and how it aims to tax unrealized capital gains for the ultra-rich. He sheds light on how the tax plans will affect all Americans regardless of their income level, what to do if Kamala Harris is elected president, and…
more -
Identity Theft: How to Protect Yourself and Take Action if You're Targeted
In this episode, Brian Skrobonja shares tips and insights on how to help protect yourself against identity theft. He sheds light on the best identity theft tools in the market, what to consider when someone steals your identity, and ways to minimize the risk of your data ending up in the dark…
more -
7 Essential Questions to Ask When Choosing a Financial Advisor
In this episode, Brian Skrobonja breaks down the seven key questions you must ask your advisor before choosing to work with them. He sheds light on why selecting a financial advisor is crucial for your financial well-being, the benefits of working with an experienced financial advisor, and why…
more -
A Framework For Multiplying Wealth
In this episode, Brian Skrobonja breaks down a simple framework everyone can follow to build and multiply wealth. He sheds light on what most people get wrong about wealth building, the benefits of having multiple appreciating assets, and how wealthy people use other people's money to build…
more -
The Three Retirement Mindsets That Could Have A Negative Impact On Your Retirement Plans
In this episode, Brian Skrobonja goes over the three main retirement mindsets that could negatively impact your retirement plans. He sheds light on what most retirees get wrong about retirement planning, why being confident doesn't eliminate investment risks, and what to consider when hiring a...
-
Exploring Alternative Investments and Building a Long Term Vision
In this episode, Brian Skrobonja explains what alternative investments are and why they are the fastest route to growing your assets or retirement savings. He sheds light on how the most successful investors in the world keep getting wealthier and how to use an endowment like strategy to position...
-
Top 2 Questions Answered
In this episode, Brian Skrobonja answers the top questions he receives from people looking for help with their financial plan. He sheds light on why a plan is more than just picking stocks, what most people get wrong about passive income, and the benefits of knowing how much tax liability you'll...
About this show
The Common Sense Financial Podcast is all about finances, mindset and personal growth. The goal is to help you make smart choices with your money in your home and in your business. Some of the podcasts here are historical in nature. They aired before July 1, 2022 and were previously approved by Kalos Capital. The views and statistics discussed in these shows are relevant to that time period and may not be relevant to current events. This is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual's situation. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Any references to protection, safety or lifetime income, generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investments. Insurance guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying abilities of the issuing carrier.
Hosted by
Brian Skrobonja