On The Mark: Financial Literacy with Mark Zinman

This week kicks off a special multi-part series as Mark sits down with Ed MacConnell to break down the essentials of medical care coverage. Together, they unpack Medicare Parts A through D, explain why Medicare matters, who it’s designed for, and when you become eligible—giving you a clearer understanding of how to navigate your options with confidence.

In our final estate planning episode, we cover probate complexities, including out-of-state property, when to establish a trust, and balancing a loved one’s wishes with legal obligations. We also touch on taking time before big decisions, pros and cons of naming multiple executors or trustees, and how prenups can factor into your decisions.

In Part 2 of Estate Planning with Mark Zinman, Mark explores what happens after filing an inheritance tax return, including selling inherited property and managing estates and trusts. He also covers the roles of executors of wills, considerations for dependents and guardians, and the consequences of not following trust rules.

In part one of this multi-part series, Mark dives back into estate planning and the often-confusing world of gifting assets, a relevant topic for this current tax season. As questions surge about the tax implications, he breaks down what you need to know in a clear, practical way. Tune in to understand the importance of responsibly reporting when receiving or gifting estates and assets.

In part two of Capital Gains, Mark takes a closer look at how investments generate profit and what those gains really mean for investors. He explains the key difference between realized and unrealized gains and why that distinction matters when it comes to taxes. The episode also examines how tax laws apply to profits from collectibles and antique items.

On this week’s episode of On the Mark Financial Literacy with Mark Zinman, we kick off Part 1 of a two-part series on capital gains. Mark breaks down what capital gains are, how to calculate them, and when you may need to make tax payments. We also cover the Net Investment Income Tax, different types of assets, and what qualifies as a capital improvement. Tune in to build confidence and clarity around this important financial topic.

In Part 2 of our Medical Coverage Options series, Mark Zinman and Jeff Weiner continue the conversation with a deeper dive into today’s healthcare landscape. They discuss different types of benefits, including voluntary benefits and Social Security, along with practical strategies for shopping policies and saving money on health insurance.

In this week’s episode, Mark is joined by Jeff Weiner to break down employer-sponsored health insurance options. They cover COBRA, how many plans an employer can offer, different types of insurance, handling out-of-network doctors, managing coverage across multiple states, student health plans, and what happens if a COBRA payment is missed. A practical, easy-to-understand guide to navigating today’s medical coverage landscape.

In this third and final segment, Mark Zinman and Steven Bowles discuss the importance of buy-sell agreements and their role in business planning. The conversation stays high level, focusing on preparation, clarity, and why having agreements in place helps business owners plan for the future with confidence

In part two of this three-part series, Mark and Steven Bowles continue to break down the essentials of Buy-Sell Agreements. In this segment we pick up where we left off about valuation methodologies, what happens if a partner becomes disabled and can no longer contribute to revenue generation, what professionals are involved in the process of drafting a buy-sell agreement.

In this three-part series, Mark is joined by Steven Bowles, owner of Catalyst Advisory, to break down the essentials of Buy-Sell Agreements. Mark and Steven cover the basics—what a Buy-Sell Agreement is, who needs one, the events that trigger it, and how value is determined. A concise, practical introduction to why every business owner should understand this critical planning tool.

In part two of this two-part series, Mark picks up where he left off on tax planning—staying informed on current and future tax bills, eliminating surprises, sharing key information with your consultant to support informed decisions, and putting money aside to prepare for estimated payments.

This week, Mark gets real about The Reality of Paying Taxes. In Part 1 of this 2 part series, Mark breaks down best practices for: making estimated tax payments, when and how you can defer what you owe, what’s truly within your control (and what isn’t), and how smart tax planning can save you stress—and money.  Tune in for practical insights, a few laughs, and a much clearer picture of how to navigate your tax responsibilities.

In part two of this two-part series, Mark and Mike Bell dive deeper into fiduciary responsibility and what it really means to work with a dual agent. They also explore the impact of proper staging, digital layouts, and the role open houses play.

In this episode, Mark is joined by real estate broker and author Mike Bell.  Mike share his expertise on residential real estate sales, including the role of AI in home sales, how to choose the right agent, and what dual agency really means. It’s a practical, insight-packed conversation for both buyers and sellers.

As we enter Q4, this new multi-segment series explores two key topics that often come up this time of year: tax planning strategies and year-end bonus options for employees. In the third and final segment of this multi-part series, we wrap up our discussion on year-end bonus options for employees and Q4 tax planning strategies.

As we enter Q4, this new multi-segment series explores two key topics that often come up this time of year: tax planning strategies and year-end bonus options for employees. In this second segment, we’ll dive into cost-saving models for subscriptions, reimbursable expenses, and year-end bonus tips to help you make the most of the final quarter.

As we enter Q4, this new multi-segment series dives into two common topics of concern this time of year:  tax planning strategies and year-end bonuses options for employers.  In this first segment, we’ll kick off the discussion with practical insights and expert tips to help you make the most of the final quarter.

In this episode we discuss how couples with different spending habits and financial goals can successfully manage their money together. This episode brings to light some financial topics that many couples avoid discussing, but by having a partnership mentality, such discussions can help create financial harmony within the household.

In this week’s episode, Mark sits down with Dr. Loren Genetti for a candid conversation about what it’s really like to acquire a small business. Dr. Genetti shares her personal journey — the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and the advice she wishes she had when starting out. She also breaks down the steps she took to avoid surprises throughout the process. Whether you’re planning to buy a business or simply curious about what the process entails, this episode is full of honest insights and practical guidance for aspiring business owners.

In this week's episode, Mark sits down with Rudy and Mara Berzins of Apex Benefit Group for an insightful conversation about generational business ownership. Rudy shares his experience as a long-time business owner and what it’s been like preparing the next generation to take the reins. Together, they dive into the challenges, lessons, and rewards of succession planning, and what it really takes to build a lasting family legacy in business.

This week, Mark breaks down essential tax planning tips for W-2 employees, independent contractors, and gig workers. He explains the key differences in tax responsibilities, deductions, and filing strategies for each group. Whether you're earning a steady paycheck or juggling multiple gigs, this episode will help you prepare smarter for tax season.

In this week's episode, Mark dives into a topic that many young individuals and families are facing: student loan debt. He shares practical insights and smart strategies to help lighten the financial load of saving for school. Whether you're a student, a parent, or just looking to get ahead financially, this is something everyone can benefit from hearing!

In this week’s episode, Mark breaks down how your credit score may be impacted when shopping for an auto loan (and any other time there is a hard pull or hard inquiry to your credit report), plus advantages and disadvantages of auto financing and auto leasing.  Want to learn more about credit scores?  Want help making auto purchase v lease decisions?  Check out this episode.

This week on the podcast, we’re diving into the essential types of insurance every business owner should know about. Whether you're just starting out or looking to strengthen your existing coverage, we break down what you need, why it matters, and how the right policies can protect and empower your business.

In this episode, we break down the different types of Power of Attorney and explain when and why each is used. Whether you're planning ahead or helping a loved one, this episode will help you make informed choices with confidence. Be sure to stay tuned in until the end of the episode for bonus content!

In part two of our Interviewing & Resume series, we dive into your questions and explore key tips hiring managers can use to improve their process. Whether you're curious about the ins and outs of interviewing, pre-employment testing, or the 80/20 rule, we've got you covered on that and more!

This week's episode serves as part one of a two part series! Join Mark and Monica as they dive into key concepts to keep in mind before and during the interview process—whether you’re the applicant or the interviewer.

In this episode, we dive into the essential factors every aspiring entrepreneur should consider before launching a startup. Whether you're just brainstorming or ready to take the leap, this episode will help you start smart. 

In this episode, we explore how tariffs are shaping global business strategies, from supply chains to pricing pressures. Stick around for bonus content from guest speaker Aaron Nicklaus at Exact Solar, who shares how his company is navigating these challenges.

In this week's episode, we explore key differences between wants and needs, the various budgeting methods you can use, and the different types of pay frequencies like weekly, biweekly, and monthly.

Mark breaks down the key changes in the newly passed "Big Beautiful Bill" and what they mean for your finances. He covers updates on Social Security, the Child Tax Credit, auto loans, SALT, taxes on tips, charitable deductions, and business tax changes. Tune in for a quick, clear look at how these reforms could impact your wallet.

In this episode, Mark dives into the ins and outs of gift tax, while briefly touching on becoming familiar with AI. Whether you're planning a large gift or just curious about the rules, this episode breaks down what you need to know to stay informed and avoid surprises.

This week’s episode, brought to you by Managed Services IT, features Mark exploring the pros and cons of buying vs. renting — a topic many of today’s younger generation are actively struggling to navigate.

In this episode, Mark dives into the often-overlooked tax implications of real estate investing. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or just curious about the financial side of property ownership, Mark breaks down key tax considerations you need to know. 

This week, Mark shares the definitions of both wills and trusts, when and how they can be utilized, and the benefits they may offer.

Join Mark as he discusses key considerations and essential tips every first-time investor should keep in mind.

Mark shares his thoughts on the current volatility of the stock market, and its impact upon non-professional investors.

Join Mark as he provides a definition of financial literacy and its importance at different stages of our personal and professional lives.