Real Personal Finance

Curious about your retirement savings? Our How Much Do I Need To Retire? quiz gives you an idea of where you stand and a starting point to think about your long-term planning.— There's a tab a lot of tech professionals have open right now. It's from Fidelity or E-Trade, it shows how much company stock they're sitting on, and most of them close it without doing a thing. Because the moment you start thinking about selling, it gets complicated.In this episode, Scott and Nick break down what to actually do when a big chunk of your net worth is tied to your employer's stock, whether that's RSUs, ISOs, ESPPs, or some combination of all three.They walk through why concentration happens quietly and compounds fast, especially when you're getting promoted, the stock is climbing, and new grants keep coming in. And they explain why "just diversify" is technically correct advice that leaves out everything that actually matters.The real conversation is about sequencing. How to unwind a concentrated position across multiple years, in a tax aware way, without triggering a bill you didn't plan for. That means looking at your income year by year, understanding which shares to sell first, knowing how to stop feeding the position, and factoring in the unvested shares that don't show up on your balance sheet yet but still count.If more than 10 to 20% of your net worth is sitting in a single stock, and especially if you're within five to ten years of retirement, this episode is for you. Scott and Nick close with a clear framework for building a plan before, during, and after, and why the clients who act earlier always walk a little lighter.Concentration isn't the problem. Concentration without a plan is.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell FinancialLeave us a question! Money can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Swell Financial. 

Curious about your retirement savings? Our How Much Do I Need To Retire? quiz gives you an idea of where you stand and a starting point to think about your long-term planning.— You did everything right. You maxed your 401(k) for decades, watched the balance grow, and felt good about where you were headed. Then someone showed you a tax projection for retirement and it was a lot bigger than you expected.In this episode, Scott walks through why a large, traditional 401(k) balance can quietly become a future tax trap. He breaks down a real world example of how required minimum distributions (RMDs), Social Security, and Medicare premiums can stack up in ways most people never saw coming and what a surviving spouse could face alone.But this isn't a story about regret. It's about having a window of time to act before the IRS starts making decisions for you.If 70 to 80% of your investable wealth sits in pre-tax accounts, this episode is for you. Scott walks through four practical levers: savings direction, Roth conversions, taxable bridge accounts, and asset location and closes with three concrete steps you can take right now to get clarity on where you actually stand.Your401(k) isn't the issue, having one that is overly concentrated without a plan is.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Leave us a question! Money can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.

Curious about your retirement savings? Our How Much Do I Need To Retire? quiz gives you an idea of where you stand and a starting point to think about your long-term planning.— Most people don’t actually want retirement, but they do want relief.Relief from the schedule. Relief from the pressure. Relief from feeling like they can’t step off the treadmill.But what if the question isn’t “When can I retire?” and it’s “What would I do if I knew I wasn’t trapped?”In this conversation, Scott and Nick explore the tensions so many professionals feel but almost never say out loud: the golden handcuffs, the benefits package, the identity wrapped up in a title. And underneath all of it, another question: do I actually need this job… or am I just afraid to look?Retirement doesn’t always have to mean stopping work. Sometimes it means choosing work, some others it’s testing something new, and every once in a while it means building enough cushion that you walk into Monday differently.If you’ve ever felt stuck in a role you’ve outgrown, this episode of Real Personal Finance might open a door you didn’t realize was already unlocked.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell FinancialLeave us a question! Money can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.

There’s a common belief people have about money: you build it, you protect it, and whatever’s left gets passed on at the end.But what if the timing matters more than the total?As lifespans stretch into the 90s and portfolios grow beyond what many families will realistically spend, the question starts to change. Would a gift mean more when your kids are buying their first home, raising young children, or launching something meaningful? Would you rather see the impact while you’re here to experience it? And how do taxes, fairness, and family dynamics shape that decision?This conversation invites you to switch your thinking into a more intentional approach. The big takeaway? Giving isn’t just about numbers, but about when the help lands, how it changes someone’s life, and whether you want to be part of that moment.If you’ve ever wondered whether to give now or later, this episode of Real Personal Finance will stretch how you think about your legacy.— Mentioned in this episode:Die With Zero by Bill Perkins on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Die-Zero-Getting-Your-Money/dp/0358567092— Curious about your retirement savings? Our How Much Do I Need To Retire? quiz gives you an idea of where you stand and a starting point to think about your long-term planning.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell FinancialLeave us a question! Money can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.

Curious about your retirement savings? Our How Much Do I Need To Retire? quiz gives you an idea of where you stand and a starting point to think about your long-term planning.— Deferred compensation tends to enter the picture when work is going well and income has outgrown the basics. Cash flow feels stable, taxes start to sting, and suddenly there’s a new option on the table that promises flexibility later.Scott and Nick explore what sits underneath that promise. Deferred comp changes the timing of income, but it also ties future choices to today’s assumptions. Employer stability matters. Payment schedules matter. So does the simple reality that once income is deferred, access and control look very different than they do inside a traditional retirement account.This episode of Real Personal Finance is an opportunity to slow down before checking the box. To think about how much certainty you actually have about your career path, your tax brackets, and the version of retirement you’re planning toward. Deferred compensation can play a useful role in the right situation, but only when it fits the rest of the picture you’re building.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell FinancialLeave us a question! Money can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.

Curious about your retirement savings? Our How Much Do I Need To Retire? quiz gives you an idea of where you stand and a starting point to think about your long-term planning.— Taxes tend to fade into the background until something feels off, like a larger bill than expected, a penalty you didn’t see coming or a moment where you wonder whether you handled the year correctly or just got lucky.In this episode of Real Personal Finance, Scott and Nick talk about how the tax system actually works and why the idea of making one payment on April 15 simply won’t cut it. For example, did you know there’s a pay-as-you-go structure? Or that different types of income can change your tax reality? Scott and Nick go through salaried employees, executives with bonuses or stock compensation, small business owners, and retirees whose income has started to shift.When you understand what the IRS is looking for and how to build a simple system around it, taxes can stop being a surprise and become something you can manage with less stress throughout the year.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell FinancialLeave us a question! Money can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.

Curious about your retirement savings? Our How Much Do I Need To Retire? quiz gives you an idea of where you stand and a starting point to think about your long-term planning.— There’s a moment many people reach at the start of a new year where the question shifts. It’s no longer just about saving more, earning more, or optimizing the plan, but it becomes something deeper. Is the life you’re building actually working for you?In this episode of Real Personal Finance, Scott and Nick step back from tactics and spreadsheets to explore how money fits into a much bigger picture. They talk about time, energy, talent, and purpose, and how financial decisions tend to fall into place more naturally when you start with the life you want to live instead of the rules you’ve been handed.You’ll hear a framework that helps clarify what matters most, especially during seasons of change, and why alignment often leads to better financial outcomes anyway. This conversation is about permission, intentionality, and designing a plan that supports the person you want to be, not just the balance you’re chasing.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell FinancialLeave us a question! Money can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.

Curious about your retirement savings? Our How Much Do I Need To Retire? quiz gives you an idea of where you stand and a starting point to think about your long-term planning.— Retiring early sounds simple when you only look at the balance sheet… until it doesn’t. In this episode of Real Personal Finance, Scott and Nick walk through why the real question isn’t “Is two million enough?” but “What does your life actually cost?”They use a clear and approachable framework to cover the spending patterns, healthcare realities, tax traps, Social Security timing, and withdrawal strategies that can shape whether your plan holds up over decades or falls apart a few years into the future.They also explore the levers you can pull if the math is close, like part-time work, test-driving lower spending, or optimizing which accounts to pull from. The goal? Invite you to think intentionally about what you're retiring to rather than just what you're retiring from.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell FinancialLeave us a question! Money can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.

It’s wild how fast a year goes by, and when you finally look back, the gap between what you meant to do and what actually happened is bigger than anticipated. The trick is that most financial progress relies less on skill and more on removing willpower from the equation.In this episode of Real Personal Finance, Scott and Nick sit down to talk through the small systems that can move your money in the right direction, even on the busiest weeks.They walk through the everyday automations that meaningfully change how much you save, how smoothly cash flows through your accounts, and how confidently you can stick to your plan. Key topics:How setting contributions as a percentage keeps your 401(k) aligned with future raisesWhy automated brokerage transfers turn good intentions into actual investmentsA simple bank-flow setup that keeps spending predictable and stress-freeHow automation supports higher earners with RSUs, taxes, and rebalancingWhy “what gets automated gets done” becomes your biggest financial advantageCurious about your retirement savings? Our How Much Do I Need To Retire? quiz gives you an idea of where you stand and a starting point to think about your long-term planning.— Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick CovyeauSwell FinancialLeave us a question! Money can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.

The holidays have a way of bringing money and meaning into the same conversation. In this episode of Real Personal Finance, Scott and Nick lean right into that. Between family gifting, charitable giving, donor-advised funds, and changes to deduction rules, this episode walks you through the most practical ways to support the people and causes you care about. It’s a great moment to pause, think about what matters, and check in on how generosity fits into your financial life.Key Takeaways • How gift tax exclusion limits really work when supporting family and loved ones • The benefits of donating appreciated stock instead of cash • Why donor-advised funds and QCDs can make year-end giving more impactfulReady to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell Financial Curious about your retirement savings? Our How Much Do I Need To Retire? quiz gives you an idea of where you stand and a starting point to think about your long-term planning.https://www.stonestepsfinancial.com/howmuch Leave us a question! Money can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.

Most people wait until tax season to think about taxes, but by then, the window’s closed. Scott and Nick talk about how the best planning happens now, when there’s still time to adjust what’s already in motion.They get into some of the details that help shape your future: RMD timing, Roth conversions in the “golden window,” how bunching charitable gifts really works, and what happens when you accidentally nudge your income above a Medicare bracket.A friendly reminder that a little attention before December 31 can go a long way toward starting next year lighter, clearer, and better positioned.Curious about your retirement savings? Our How Much Do I Need To Retire? quiz gives you an idea of where you stand and a starting point to think about your long-term planning.https://www.stonestepsfinancial.com/howmuch— Ready to learn more? Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell FinancialScott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Leave us a question! Money can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.

A lot of people are under-utilizing their corporate benefits, unintentionally leaving money on the table. Open enrollment is a great opportunity to review your company’s benefits plan to ensure that you’re taking full advantage of everything they offer. In this episode, we walk through some of the most common areas you can optimize your benefits, such as HSAs, FSAs, life insurance, disability, ESPPs, and more. Curious about your retirement savings? Our How Much Do I Need To Retire? quiz gives you an idea of where you stand and a starting point to think about your long-term planning.— Get in touch with us!Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps FinancialNick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell FinancialLeave us a question! How Much Do I Need To Retire? Quizhttps://www.stonestepsfinancial.com/howmuchMoney can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act has some pretty great enhancements for business owners, but you have to know what you’re looking for in order to get them. Whether it’s the extension of Qualified Business Income, the 100% Bonus Depreciation, or Enhanced Qualified Small Business Stock, the bill has something for businesses of any size.In this episode, we walk you through six key provisions of the OBBBA that every business owner should be aware of, then we look at how you can take action now to reduce tax liability and boost cash flow.Curious about your retirement savings? Our How Much Do I Need To Retire? quiz gives you an idea of where you stand and a starting point to think about your long-term planning.— Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Leave us a question! How Much Do I Need To Retire? Quizhttps://www.stonestepsfinancial.com/howmuchMoney can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.

“How much money do I need to save in order to retire – what’s my number?” It’s one of the most common questions financial advisors get, and we understand why. People want a goal, something they can work toward to help them feel more at peace about how they’re saving.As is often the case in financial planning, when people ask for their number, the answer goes deeper than dollars and cents. It’s not just how much you save, but where you save and what you prepare for. Tune in as we look beneath your number to understand everything that goes into preparing for retirement. Curious about your retirement savings? Our How Much Do I Need To Retire? quiz gives you an idea of where you stand and a starting point to think about your long-term planning.— Get in touch with us!Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps FinancialNick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell FinancialLeave us a question! How Much Do I Need To Retire? Quizhttps://www.stonestepsfinancial.com/howmuchMoney can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.

People often think of their 401(k) as the set-it-and-forget-it retirement account. You set your contribution amount, get your employer match, and leave it alone. But what if your company gives you pre-tax, after-tax, and Roth IRA options? It’s a nice problem to have, but things can get complicated pretty quickly.In this episode, we’re answering a listener question from someone in just such a predicament, which is pretty common in the world of tech. Listen in as we get practical and break down the max contributions, pre-tax vs after-tax vs Roth, and much more. Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Leave us a question! How Much Do I Need To Retire? Quiz:https://www.stonestepsfinancial.com/howmuchMoney can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.

Whether you know him as “The Sketch Guy” from his decade-long run as a NY Times columnist or you’ve heard him on a podcast, if you’re interested in the world of finance, you probably know who Carl Richards is. He has also written multiple books, including The Behavior Gap, The One-page Financial Plan, and his forthcoming book of sketches, titled simply Your Money. In this episode, we sit down to talk through a few of Carl’s favorite sketches, how he came up with the ideas, and what he hoped to communicate with each. Whether it’s learning to be “less wrong tomorrow” or finding out what is on the other side of complexity, Carl’s sketches and insights will leave you feeling inspired.About our guestCarl Richards started The Sketch Guy column in The New York Times from the hills of Utah, crafting clear, relatable insights about money with just card stock and a Sharpie. The column ran weekly for a decade. This journey began when Carl applied for what he thought was a job as a “security guard,” only to find out the ad actually said “securities.” That slight misstep sparked a lifelong dedication to reshaping how we think about money.Resources mentioned in the episodePre-order the book on AmazonYour Money: Using Money, Energy, Time, and Attention to Build Your Best Life by Carl by Carl RichardsBulk orders of Carl’s booksYour Money - BulkbooksSupport local bookstoresBookshop.orgReady to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Carl Richards on LinkedInCarl Richards on XCarl Richards on InstagramBehavior Gap

Disclaimer:At approximately 12:09 in this episode, the income thresholds were misstated. The correct information is that the phase-out applies to incomes above $500,000 for single and married filing jointly, and $250,000 for married filing separately.With the OBBBA now signed into law, we’re sitting down to walk through the good, the bad, and the ugly. The biggest takeaway is that the new bill has opened the door to some great tax planning opportunities, but you have to act soon! Most of the OBBBA’s changes expire in four years, so you have a little time and space to consider doing a Roth conversion or realize some capital gains. We explore the impact on tax rates, estate and gift tax, deductions, tax credits, and more. After that, we dive into how Congress will pay for the OBBBA, which I guess you could say is where things go from “good” to “bad” – or even “ugly.”Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell Financial PartnersLeave us a question! Money can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Swell Financial Partners.

Do you ever feel like you're behind on retirement? A 41-year-old listener with over $230,000 saved and a 50%+ savings rate, certainly did. In this episode, we explain why starting late doesn't mean finishing last, especially when you're making such incredible strides! We dive into the numbers, the idea of being "behind" and the importance of the right mindset during this prep-for-retirement journey.You will hear a little debate about Roth versus traditional 401(k), how your tax bracket should guide your choices, and why leaning too heavily on dividend funds might hold back your growth in the long term. After listening, you will have a question stuck in your head: “Is that intense saving strategy keeping me from living today?”Key takeaways:You can make huge progress even if you start “late”Mindset matters almost as much as numbersChoosing between Roth and traditional 401(k) contributionsDividend investing might not be the best strategyReady to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell Financial PartnersLeave us a question! Money can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Swell Financial Partners.

We all know we should probably save some more, but when we pass the piggy bank phase and have larger amounts of money, things get a little more complicated than just dropping some coins every once in a while. In this episode of Real Personal Finance, Scott and Nick get into a little detail that most people skip: “where” and “how” matter as much as “how much” when it comes to saving.Key takeaways:The emergency fund is not optional; it’s the foundation of savingThe 401K match is free money you shouldn't leave behindSequence matters: there’s a smart way to allocate moneyReady to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell Financial PartnersLeave us a question! Money can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Swell Financial Partners.

Retirement is supposed to be the reward after decades of hard work, but for many, the hardest part is learning how to actually spend the money they’ve saved. In this episode, we explore why that transition feels so uncomfortable and how creating a retirement paycheck can help make spending feel safe and sustainable. We talk through the natural phases of retirement spending, the risks of being too conservative, and how to align your money with what really matters to you.Key takeaways:Retirement spending happens in phases, and your plan should evolve with themA "retirement paycheck" can bring structure and confidence to your financial lifeBeing overly cautious can hurt more than help, especially when it comes to inflationReady to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell Financial PartnersLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Swell Financial Partners.

Why do some people delay retirement when they’re more than ready, while others want out the moment they hit the financial edge? In this episode, we explore the emotional weight behind retirement decisions, from the fear of losing identity to the overlooked value of early, healthy retirement years. You’ll hear how flexible paths like consulting or “dialing down” can offer purpose and freedom without the pressure of full-time work. If you’ve ever asked yourself whether to push through one more year or step into your next chapter, this conversation is your guide.Key takeaways:Retirement isn’t just a financial decision—it’s an emotional one and an identity shift.Early retirement years are more valuable than later ones due to health and opportunity.Flexible transitions like part-time work or consulting can bridge the gap between burnout and full retirement.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell Financial PartnersLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Swell Financial Partners.

What should you do with extra cash when markets feel shaky? In this episode, we break down why your savings rate is the real engine of wealth, and how understanding the purpose behind your money brings clarity to every financial decision. You’ll learn why market downturns can be golden opportunities, but only if your foundation is solid and your timeline matches the risk. We also share how investment certainty grows with time, helping you shift your mindset from fear to long-term confidence.Key takeaways:Know your savings rate and aim for 10–20% of total compensation.Build financial stability before pursuing market opportunities.Match investment decisions to your money’s purpose and timeline.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell Financial PartnersLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Swell Financial Partners.

Is market volatility really all about tariffs? In the wake of the unexpectedly aggressive “Liberation Day,” headlines would have you believe so. But the bigger culprit isn’t trade policy—it’s uncertainty. While U.S. markets have taken a noticeable hit, international developed markets are down only about 1.3% as of this recording. So what’s really going on? In this episode, we break down what investors need to keep in mind when the market gets shaky, including:Why portfolio diversification is your best defense in turbulent timesWhy volatility tends to cluster and why that makes timing the market so difficultThe reality behind trade balances: population size and competitive advantage matterHow using tolerance bands for rebalancing can help you make rational, not emotional, decisionsReady to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell Financial PartnersLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Swell Financial Partners.

Balancing today’s lifestyle with tomorrow’s goals isn’t easy, but it’s doable. In this episode, we answer a listener's question about 401(k) contribution limits and employer matching, which opens up a broader conversation about financial flexibility and smart savings strategies.We break down 2025 contribution limits, including catch-up provisions for those over 50, and clarify what counts toward those limits. Nathan, who works in higher ed and saves 21% of his income, offers a great example of blending tax-advantaged retirement accounts with a brokerage account for added flexibility.This episode offers practical insights to help you build a plan that supports both your future and your life today.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell Financial PartnersLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Swell Financial Partners.

Major financial transitions don't have to be binary choices – testing your assumptions before making big moves can prevent costly mistakes and regrets. In this episode, Nick and Scott talk about test-driving potential life transitions to help guide your decisions. • Looking at buying a home? Try setting aside the difference between rent and projected homeownership costs• Practice living on expected retirement income while still employed• Try extended stays in potential retirement locations during different seasonsBreak down big transitions into small, actionable steps, and remember that major life goals often involve both financial and lifestyle adjustments.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell Financial PartnersLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Swell Financial Partners.

In the face of the uncertainty of life, it’s difficult knowing that many things are out of your control. Focusing on your financial well-being can often feel daunting, especially with the unpredictability of markets. In this episode, we discuss aspects of your financial journey that you can control, like…- The importance of having a structured financial plan- Cash flow: savings, spending, debt, and taxes- Strategies for managing investments and understanding risk- An emergency fund in your financial security- A personal financial roadmap that adapts to life changesReady to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell Financial PartnersLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Swell Financial Partners.

This week, we welcome new co-host Nick Covyeau, a Certified Financial Planner and owner of Swell Financial Partners, to discuss safe retirement spending strategies. We talk about the different approaches to withdrawal rates and the factors that can impact these decisions including retirement timing, portfolio balance, navigating market changes and planning for big purchases. We cover all this and more to give you the tools for a worry-free, fulfilling retirement!Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Nick Covyeau on LinkedInSwell Financial PartnersLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with me at Stone Steps Financial.

The S&P 500 was up 25% in 2024, so is that all you need for a strong financial future? Not so fast. Putting all your money in one place—even a good one—is risky.Smart investors look beyond the U.S. to global markets, small-value stocks, and international giants like Toyota and Taiwan Semiconductor. More variety = less risk.Join us to see just how staying broadly diversified means so much more than simply investing in the S&P 500.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Flow Financial PlanningLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with me at Stone Steps Financial.

If you’re tired of checking on your portfolio every day, we’ve got good news! In this episode, we go back to Investing 101 to look at the basic principles of a healthy outlook on the markets.Join us for this quick overview of how to avoid the traps that others fall into and keep your financial plan on target!Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial  Leave me a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with me at Stone Steps Financial.

The new year is a great time to do an annual review. In this episode, we look at five things to look at regarding your investments to help you make the most of your money. Join us as we look at some of the simplest ways you can help keep your financial plan on track!Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Flow Financial PlanningLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Flow Financial Planning. 

New year, new you, new episode! Failed New Year’s resolutions are so cliche. How can you achieve lasting results, whether you’re trying to get healthy, save more money, or something else?Tune in to hear how you can set yourself up for success – as well as our favorite financial habits for the new year!Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Flow Financial PlanningLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Flow Financial Planning. 

What does your most fulfilled life look like? If you’re not sure, then this episode is for you. Join us as we discuss three questions to help you uncover what is most important to you!Resources mentioned in this episode:Goals for Life WorksheetKinder’s 3 QuestionsReady to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Flow Financial PlanningLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Flow Financial Planning. 

To be a home owner or not to be a home owner, that is the question – and the answer is anything but simple!Tune in as we discuss when home ownership makes sense and when it may be better to rent. Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Flow Financial PlanningLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Flow Financial Planning. 

Roth conversions can be a great tool for minimizing your tax burden, but you don’t want to jump in blind. If you have a 401(k) and/or an IRA, you don’t want to miss this episode.Join us as we look at the what, when and why of Roth conversions.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Flow Financial PlanningLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Flow Financial Planning. 

Ever wonder what exactly a financial advisor does? In our latest episode, we’re going beyond investments and insurance to look at the big picture of everything we do as advisors.Join us as we pull back the curtain on what we do, how we think about it, and how we help our clients.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Flow Financial PlanningLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Flow Financial Planning. 

Sitting down to do a tax projection can make a huge impact on the amount of taxes you pay – but you have to do it before December 31!Whether you’re expecting next year to be a high- or low-income year, join us as we discuss how a tax projection can help minimize your tax burden.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Flow Financial PlanningLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Flow Financial Planning. 

We’re back with another look at open enrollment decisions! This time, we’re talking life insurance, disability coverage, 401(k)s and more.Join us as we discuss which options make sense, and which you could probably ignore.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Flow Financial PlanningLeave us a question! Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Flow Financial Planning. 

Open enrollment season is almost here! Do you know what you’ll need for health insurance next year? Join us as we look at the most important factors to consider when choosing your plan. Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Flow Financial PlanningMoney can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Flow Financial Planning. 

If your financial goals always feel like they’re just out of reach, you’re not alone! In this episode, we talk about the dissonance between your financial plan and real life – and how to put your advisor’s best advice into action more consistently.Join us as we discuss the stories and strategies that make financial planning such a dynamic and important journey.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Flow Financial PlanningMoney can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Flow Financial Planning. 

Should you join an exchange fund? Can they really minimize taxes? What are the potential downsides? What are your other options? Do we recommend them?Join us as we talk through the pros and cons of exchange funds, plus a few alternatives that could provide added protection without all the complexity. Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Flow Financial PlanningMoney can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Flow Financial Planning. 

It’s election time again and right on cue, everything feels a little out of control. But should it? What does history have to say about market behavior around elections? Join us as we consider the influence of Democrats vs. Republicans, presidents vs. senators, the Fed vs. the DOJ, and more as we seek to find where politics and economics overlap (and where they don’t).Plus, we’ll zoom in to see how you can seek to maintain financial stability, even when the news seems hell-bent on trying to make you panic. Whether you're a retiree needing balanced asset allocation or someone in your prime earning years looking to capitalize on market dips, you’ll find relevant, actionable steps to guide you through uncertainty and help you focus on your goals.Election Stats MentionedReady to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Flow Financial PlanningMoney can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial or Flow Financial Planning. 

How do financial advisors mix stocks, bonds, and cash to achieve the best returns to meet each person’s financial needs? In today’s episode, Scott Frank and Meg Bartelt discuss the unique risks and potential returns each one offers; focusing on these primary asset classes can lead to a more stable and profitable investment strategy. They dive into the various types of bonds—government, municipal, and corporate—and their role in your portfolio, while delving into the importance of credit ratings, bond maturity, and global currency risks, offering you insights on how to navigate these complexities. Scott and Meg provide tailored investment strategies for different financial goals and timeframes, whether you're saving for a short-term goal like a home down payment or a long-term objective like retirement. Learn the pitfalls of short-term stock market investments and the benefits of safer options like high-yield savings accounts for immediate needs. For long-term goals, they discuss leveraging the historical growth of the stock market while balancing intermediate-term objectives with a well-thought-out plan. Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial. 

People say it’s just business, it’s not emotional, but that’s really not the case. In this episode of Real Personal Finance, Scott Frank, founder of Stone Steps Financial, and Meg Bartelt, founder of Flow Financial Planning, LLC, tackle the psychological minefield of investment decisions and uncover how recent trends, like the meteoric rise of big tech stocks, can warp your perspective. They delve into the cognitive biases, specifically recency bias, that often stand in the way of sound financial strategies and illustrate how structured systems can safeguard your portfolio against these mental pitfalls. Past performance, while tempting to rely on, is not a reliable predictor of future success. Learn how to use tolerance bands to maintain a balanced portfolio by adhering to timeless principles like "buy low, sell high." Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial. 

How prepared are you for a financial crisis when job security feels more fragile than ever? In today's episode, Scott Frank and Meg Bartelt break down the essential steps to creating a strong emergency plan able to withstand the tech industry’s volatile job market. Learn how to navigate financial instability with actionable strategies. In order to save money, people are often advised to cut small expenses, but that’s not enough. We discuss why that practice isn’t enough and how managing major costs can protect your financial future. We provide a clear, step-by-step guide to maintaining a balanced investment mix. Tune in for these essential tips to safeguard your financial future in uncertain times.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial. 

How do you secure your retirement against an uncertain future? In this episode of “Real Personal Finance,” Scott Frank, founder of Stone Steps Financial, and Meg Bartelt, founder of Flow Financial Planning, LLC, explore strategies to predict future expenses and ensure financial readiness, even if retirement is decades away. They address a listener question about preparing 26 years ahead, covering how to assess current expenses and plan for changing costs like mortgages. Estimating future medical expenses is crucial yet challenging, but informed planning brings peace of mind.Our discussion extends to the importance of ongoing financial reassessment, considering life's unexpected events—such as starting a business or caregiving—that impact your finances. Regularly reviewing and adjusting financial plans is key to staying on course. Join the conversation, submit questions, and engage with our community for insights that strengthen financial resilience and align with long-term goals.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial. 

Rethink  your charitable giving and maximize your tax benefits with Donor-Advised Funds. Discover how this streamlined and tax-efficient alternative to traditional donation methods might just be a game-changer to your financial strategy. Scott and Meg contrast DAFs with conventional giving methods like checks and credit cards, to paint a clearer picture of their advantages. They also address common myths surrounding DAFs, especially the idea that they're only a tool for tax avoidance. Learn from real-life examples about when a DAF is the best choice and why genuine charitable intent is crucial to take advantage of its full potential.DAFs allow you to separate the tax event from the actual act of giving. This can be particularly beneficial during high-income years, letting you maximize your tax benefits while taking the time to thoughtfully select the right charities. Scott and Meg also tackle the concept of "bunching" donations for optimal itemized deductions and discuss how DAFs can facilitate family involvement in your philanthropy, turning giving into a shared family mission. Tune in to discover how integrating DAFs into your financial planning can lead to both personal fulfillment and community support.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial. 

Are you using your Health Savings Account to its full potential? HSAs are great for covering immediate healthcare costs, but with careful planning, they can also become a strategic part of your long-term wealth plan. This week, Scott Frank, founder of Stone Steps Financial, and Meg Bartelt, founder of Flow Financial Planning, LLC, take on HSAs, sharing the ins and outs of eligibility, their triple tax benefits, and how it can become a vital nest egg for end-of-life care later on.  HSAs were created to help offset the cost of healthcare, so start letting your account do the work! Scott and Meg’s insights help clear the confusion around HSAs, giving listeners actionable advice to help them decide on future plans. Let’s face it—the world won’t get any cheaper. Investing in an HSA is an opportunity to protect your financial future. Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial. 

Deciding what to do with your stocks can prove to be a problem, challenge, and opportunity all at once. With a huge portfolio in front of you, what can you do to slim it down? This week, Scott Frank, founder of Stone Steps Financial, and Meg Bartelt, founder of Flow Financial Planning, LLC, provide insights on how to cut down on your stocks to achieve the life you’ve dreamed of. We have emotional ties to our investments—but that shouldn’t stop you from pursuing a more financially sound future. Scott and Meg swap tales of market highs and lows, illustrating why, sometimes, letting go of stock can safeguard your portfolio and your future security. This episode is more than just a discussion—it’s a blueprint for aligning your stocks with your broader financial aspirations.Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.

Is your cash currently sitting under your mattress, withering away with inflation? While stashing your cash seems like a safe bet, it limits your access to investment opportunities. With inflation rising, the value of your cash may not have the longevity you hoped for. If you currently have a pile of cash and are asking yourself, “Well…what now?” this week’s episode of “Real Personal Finance” guides you through aligning your resources with the life you want to lead. Scott Frank, founder of Stone Steps Financial, and Meg Bartelt, founder of Flow Financial Planning, LLC, share strategies that steer you clear of the hoarding trap and onto the road to smart investment.The conversation covers the “Have-To’s,” “What-To’s,” and “Need-To’s” of personal finance, giving listeners insights on how to make your cash work for you. The journey doesn't stop there; Scott and Meg address the pressing need for retirement savings, even if you're coming late to the party, and how to employ tax location strategies to invest more in your future. Don’t let your cash waste away; use it to make your ideal life possible. Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial. 

What does being financially independent mean to you? Those chasing FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) are choosing to live frugally now to achieve early retirement. FIRE is a means to unlock a life where work is optional and the freedom of choice reigns supreme. Scott Frank, founder of Stone Steps Financial, and Meg Bartelt, founder of Flow Financial Planning, LLC, discuss the movement's evolution and how people are applying FIRE principles to their daily lives. With the concept of Coast FIRE, early retirement is more attainable than it seems—even for those starting later in life. The conversation explores the spectrum of financial independence, sharing how different stages of life can strive towards obtainable goals. As you grow, your level of autonomy should move with you. Achieving your version of FIRE requires more than just an understanding of numbers and compound interest; it requires understanding the life you want to live. Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.