Capitalist Investor

What happens when one spouse is ready to retire… and the other hasn’t even thought about what retirement actually looks like yet?In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, the team breaks down the retirement conversations couples often avoid until it’s too late. From retirement timelines and spending habits to travel plans, Social Security decisions, healthcare costs, and lifestyle expectations, this discussion highlights why planning together matters just as much as saving money.The conversation also covers common financial personality clashes between savers and spenders, why retirement can create unexpected stress inside relationships, and how building a shared vision early can help avoid major surprises later. Plus, Tony and Derek discuss the importance of having a financial roadmap in place years before retirement so couples can approach the next chapter with confidence instead of uncertainty.If you’re within 5 to 10 years of retirement, this episode is packed with practical insights that can help you start the right conversations now instead of reacting later.

What happens when the market drops right as you need your money most? In this episode, we break down one of the biggest retirement planning mistakes people make: being overexposed to the stock market without a true cash safety net. Using real-world market scenarios like the 2020 crash, we discuss sequence of returns risk, retirement income planning, and why liquidity matters more than most investors realize. We also explore how having accessible cash reserves can help retirees avoid selling investments during market downturns, reduce stress during volatile periods, and create more flexibility in a long-term financial strategy. If you’re approaching retirement, already retired, or simply trying to build a smarter financial plan, this conversation highlights the importance of balancing growth, protection, and income in uncertain markets.

Are Social Security increases actually helping retirees or quietly falling behind?In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, we break down why a recent 2.8% cost of living adjustment may feel more like a loss than a gain. When rising costs for healthcare, groceries, and energy outpace government adjustments, retirees are left asking a simple question: is this really enough?We also explain how COLA is calculated and why it may not reflect the real expenses people face every day. From inflation to Medicare increases, this conversation highlights the growing gap between perception and reality in retirement income.More importantly, we walk through what you can actually do about it. From building additional income streams to understanding the role of the stock market as an inflation hedge, this episode focuses on practical steps to prepare for retirement beyond relying on Social Security alone.If you’re planning for retirement or already living it, this is a conversation you need to hear.

Most people think they understand retirement planning… but the reality is, small decisions today can completely change your future. Whether you’re contributing to a 401k, exploring a Roth IRA, or just starting to think about saving for retirement, this conversation breaks down what actually matters.We cover how everyday spending habits impact your ability to save, build retirement income, and reach true financial freedom. From understanding what is a 401k to comparing 401k vs Roth IRA, this is about simplifying financial planning so you can make better long-term decisions.You’ll also hear how strategies like roth 401k, roth ira investing, and long-term investing play into a real retirement strategy, along with how tax planning, retirement accounts, and wealth building all connect. This isn’t theory… it’s practical personal finance that helps you build real savings over time.We also touch on how distractions like lifestyle creep, the housing market, and even real estate investing can either support or hurt your plan if you’re not intentional. Because at the end of the day, retirement investing isn’t just about the market… it’s about behavior.If you’re trying to improve your financial literacy, understand how to make money, and build a smarter approach to finance, this is a must-watch.Whether you’re a beginner looking into a roth ira for beginners or someone refining your current strategy, the goal is simple… build a plan that actually works.

Building your nest egg is great, but remember that "Uncle Sam" is a silent partner in your retirement planning. The government collects taxes on individual retirement account funds through required minimum distributions (RMDs).This ensures that funds are taxed before your death, making proper tax planning and understanding taxes in retirement crucial for your financial future. 💰 

For those nearing retirement, the absence of a clearly defined financial plan can create significant risk, regardless of accumulated assets. This episode examines the consequences of delayed planning and the challenges that arise when key factors such as longevity, healthcare costs, inflation, and spending are not properly accounted for.The discussion explores why individuals often avoid planning, the importance of understanding personal financial behavior, and how structured planning can reveal gaps and provide direction. Through practical examples, including a late-stage retirement scenario, the episode illustrates how early decisions and consistent planning can materially affect long-term outcomes.This conversation is intended to offer a measured perspective on the role of planning in supporting sustainable retirement strategies.

In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony Zabiegala speaks with Sam Petitjean about earning the Certified Financial Planner designation and what that process reveals about the depth of financial advice.They discuss the discipline required to complete the CFP, the difference between basic investment management and true financial planning, and why coordination across tax, legal, and investment strategy matters for long-term outcomes.For investors with significant assets, understanding how advisors are trained and how they think can play a major role in the quality of guidance they receive.

As retirement approaches, the margin for error narrows. What helped build wealth may no longer be appropriate once income replaces accumulation, and poorly managed risk at this stage can have lasting consequences. In this episode, the discussion centers on how portfolio structure should evolve before and after retirement. The conversation explores the impact of market downturns at the wrong time, the importance of rebalancing, the risks of concentrated positions, and why relying on past performance can create blind spots. It also highlights practical frameworks like gradual allocation shifts and the use of structured investment buckets to support income needs. This episode is intended as a perspective on how thoughtful planning, disciplined adjustments, and risk awareness can shape a more stable retirement strategy.

For investors with significant assets, geopolitical events can introduce uncertainty that extends beyond short-term market movement. Energy prices, inflation pressures, and supply chain disruptions all play a role in shaping the economic landscape.This episode examines how current conflict in the Middle East is affecting markets, with a focus on energy dependency, market volatility, and sector-level impacts. The conversation highlights how rising fuel costs can influence inflation, how different industries respond to these shifts, and why a measured, long-term perspective remains essential.The discussion is intended to provide context and clarity for those evaluating how external events may influence their broader financial strategy.

Many experienced investors question whether recent market volatility reflects a deeper structural issue or simply a shift in expectations.In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Dave discuss the difference between headline driven volatility and fundamental market deterioration. They explore how geopolitical developments can influence energy markets, why employment and earnings growth remain important indicators of stability, and how the rapid investment cycle surrounding artificial intelligence may eventually require companies to demonstrate tangible returns.The conversation offers perspective for investors assessing whether current market movements represent genuine concern or the natural fluctuations that occur within longer term market cycles.

Debt can be a powerful financial tool, but it can also become a major obstacle as retirement approaches.In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Derek Gabrielsen and Jack Root explore how debt affects retirement planning and why managing liabilities becomes increasingly important as earning years begin to shrink.The conversation covers how business owners should approach debt tied to their companies, why exit planning matters for entrepreneurs, and why not all debt needs to disappear before retirement. They also explain the difference between mortgage debt and lifestyle debt such as credit cards or home equity lines.If you are thinking about retirement or planning your financial future as a business owner, this discussion offers practical perspective on how debt fits into a sustainable retirement strategy.

For investors nearing retirement, decisions surrounding pension elections and portfolio discipline require careful analysis. In this episode, we examine two foundational areas of retirement planning.First, we discuss the mechanics of portfolio rebalancing and its role in maintaining intended risk levels over time. Second, we analyze a real world pension scenario involving a $60,000 lifetime annuity versus a $1.2 million lump sum. The conversation explores income durability, estate impact, Monte Carlo outcomes, liquidity considerations, and how a personal pension strategy can alter long term results.This episode is intended to provide structured perspective for those evaluating significant retirement decisions.Learn more at swpconnect.com

If you are approaching retirement, investment risk is no longer just about chasing higher returns. It becomes about whether you have enough time to recover from market declines and how volatility can affect your ability to retire when planned. In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Diamond Hands - Derek and Jack Root discuss how risk tolerance evolves as retirement nears and why preserving capital, managing allocation, and maintaining discipline become more important than outperforming the market. They explain how drawdowns require significantly larger gains to recover, why the “lost decade” illustrates sequencing risk, and how rebalancing portfolios can help manage exposure as markets shift. The conversation focuses on building a plan that aligns investments, income strategy, and retirement timing rather than reacting to trends, momentum trades, or short-term performance. 

In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Derek and Tony break down how California’s tax system can impact professional athletes, even after winning a championship.They also examine whether consumer spending is truly slowing, reviewing retail growth data, job creation numbers, wage trends, and what higher tax refunds in 2026 could mean for the economy.Finally, they discuss the streaming wars and whether cutting cable has actually saved consumers money, or simply replaced one high bill with many smaller ones.If you want a grounded discussion on taxes, economic momentum, and consumer behavior, this episode delivers practical perspective without hype.

In this episode, Tony and Derrick open with a practical warning about identity theft and financial fraud, sharing real client stories and simple steps you can take today, including changing passwords, freezing credit, and using identity monitoring services.They then shift into recent market volatility, breaking down gold and silver swings, Bitcoin’s technical patterns, and the surprising connection to the McRib. The conversation explores why timing matters, why emotional reactions hurt returns, and how long-term ownership differs from short-term speculation.The episode closes with an honest discussion about today’s new investors, instant gratification versus steady strategy, and why having a plan, setting limits, and avoiding panic are essential when markets move quickly.This is a straightforward, real-world conversation about protecting your finances and staying grounded during uncertain markets.

In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Derek and Tony deliver rapid fire hot takes on what’s really driving today’s markets and what investors should be watching as 2026 approaches.They break down why Costco selling physical gold is grabbing headlines, what soaring gold and silver prices may signal, and why Bitcoin isn’t reacting the way many expected. The conversation also covers the “Big Beautiful Bill,” including who actually benefits from the proposed tax relief and how an estimated $150+ billion back into consumers’ pockets could impact the economy.Derek and Tony then shift to their 2026 market outlook, discussing sector rotation, why consumer discretionary and industrials could outperform, and why markets are moving beyond just a handful of tech stocks. They also walk through potential black swan events, including a possible government shutdown, geopolitical tensions, and volatility tied to election season.If you want practical perspective on where opportunities may be emerging and what risks could derail markets, this episode delivers straightforward insight without the noise.

You worked hard to build your wealth. Now comes the real challenge: making sure it lasts.In this episode, Derek and Tony break down legacy planning strategies to help families preserve wealth across generations. You’ll learn how Roth conversions, estate taxes, trust structures, and family meetings play a role in long term wealth transfer and how to prepare heirs to responsibly manage inherited assets.This conversation covers practical estate planning concepts, retirement income considerations, and ways high net worth families can reduce taxes while protecting their legacy. If you are thinking about generational wealth, succession planning, or how to pass assets on with intention, this episode gives you a clear framework to start.Subscribe for weekly investing and financial planning insights designed to help you make smarter long term decisions.

If your retirement plan still relies on the same stock and bond playbook, you may be taking more risk than you realize.In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, we break down how gold, silver, and cryptocurrency actually fit into a modern retirement portfolio and why more investors are rethinking diversification as inflation, government debt, and global uncertainty reshape the financial landscape. We discuss the real role of gold as a store of value, silver’s dual purpose as both a monetary and industrial asset, and how crypto has evolved from speculation into a legitimate alternative asset class.You’ll also hear a practical conversation about allocation mistakes investors make, why chasing headlines can backfire, and how small, intentional exposure to alternatives can help protect long-term retirement plans without gambling on volatility. This episode is designed to help investors understand risk, stay disciplined, and think strategically about portfolio construction heading into 2026.

Many investors feel pressure at the start of a new year to make big portfolio changes. In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Derek and Tony break down the most common investing mistakes people make early in the year and why activity is often confused with progress.They discuss why overreacting to early market moves can create unnecessary risk, how chasing last year’s winners often backfires, and why simple rebalancing is usually more effective than drastic changes. The conversation also covers market volatility, mean reversion, discipline after strong multi year market performance, and how investors should think about positioning portfolios moving into 2026.This episode is focused on long term thinking, risk management, and staying aligned with a plan instead of reacting emotionally to headlines or calendar changes.

Last week Tony and D kicked off a two part series on four areas your advisor should have on their radar to help maximize your growth. In part two they cover the next two and get very practical about what real planning looks like when your life changes fast.First they talk about alignment. Your portfolio should match your lifestyle, your income needs, and your real world transitions, especially if you are a business owner selling a company, changing jobs, or moving into retirement. They explain why a plan cannot be rigid, why returns are not linear, and why you want someone you can treat like a personal CFO to help take emotion out and run the numbers when big decisions show up.Then they close with a simple question. Is your advisor a specialist or a generalist. If the advice feels generic, the investments look like a one size fits all model, or the answers sound like they are going in circles, that is a signal to ask better questions and demand a strategy built around your situation.

Have you heard the saying what got you here might not get you there. In this episode Tony and D kick off a two part series based on a white paper from Mark and break down the first two areas your advisor should have on their radar to help maximize your wealth.First they talk about the big picture. Investing matters, but taxes, estate planning, and business strategies matter too and missing them can cost you opportunities you cannot rewind. Then they shift to how a real plan handles major economic and world changing events, from COVID to market shocks to the current AI wave, and why your advisor’s job is to pull emotion off the table and stay disciplined when headlines get loud.If you want a smarter framework for year end planning, legacy thinking, and staying ready for whatever the market throws next, this episode is for you.

In part two of this two-part series, Tony and Derek break down the remaining five retirement surprises that catch most people completely off guard. From boredom-driven overspending and down markets early in retirement to required minimum distributions, caring for aging parents, and why your money still needs to grow, this episode focuses on the real-life challenges retirees actually face.This conversation goes beyond market returns and dives into planning realities that can derail even the best-looking retirement accounts. Whether retirement is around the corner or still years away, this episode highlights why having a real plan matters more than chasing performance.

Today on The Capitalist Investor, Tony is back in the saddle as we kick off a special two-part series on the biggest surprises people face in retirement. We break down the first five unexpected challenges retirees run into, including rising taxes, health insurance gaps, sequence-of-returns risk, inflation shocks, and longevity risk. These are the issues most people never plan for, but absolutely should. Tony and the team share real examples, practical perspectives, and the “cheat codes” you need to retire with confidence. Join us next week for part two, where we cover the remaining five surprises no one warns you about.

Having $5 million or more saved for retirement doesn’t mean you’re financially secure. In this episode, Dave and Derek break down the hidden risks wealthy retirees face — from tax drag and Medicare surcharges to concentration risk in tech, bond exposure mistakes, and long-term-care costs. They explain why planning ahead matters more at higher net-worth levels and share practical ways to reduce portfolio stress while maintaining growth. If you want to protect your retirement lifestyle, avoid over-hedging, and understand income strategies designed for big portfolios, this episode is for you. 👉 Schedule a conversation with the team at Strategic Wealth Partners to strengthen your retirement strategy: swpconnect.com

In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Derek and Dave break down what smart philanthropy really looks like inside a long–term wealth plan. Giving isn’t just something you do at the end of the year. When you build giving into your plan with intention, it can lower taxes, support causes you believe in, and shape the legacy you want your family to carry on.They walk through donor advised funds, qualified charitable distributions, the warm hands vs cold hands conversation, and the timing mistakes that cost families impact and control. If you’re nearing retirement or already in it, and you’ve ever wondered how giving fits into the big picture, this episode is a great place to start.

Derek and Dave take over this week and break down five retirement truths most people never hear from their advisor. They start with the difference between average returns and real returns, and why volatility matters more than the headline number on your statement. They unpack sequence-of-returns risk, explain how taxes quietly drain retirement savings, and walk through why a tax-diversified portfolio can make your money last much longer. Derek and Dave also hit inflation, over-lapping mutual funds, and the mindset shift every retiree needs to enjoy their next chapter. This is one of the clearest, most practical retirement conversations we’ve released all year.

Your brain can make or break your wealth. In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Derek and Tony explore the battle between dopamine and discipline — why we chase quick wins, how emotional investing can sabotage your portfolio, and what it takes to build lasting wealth with patience and a plan. From meme stocks and NFTs to panic selling and loss aversion, they unpack the psychological traps that derail smart investors and how to train your brain to stay the course. Learn how to set goals, reward yourself the right way, and rewire your mindset for long-term success.Keywords: investing, wealth, dopamine, discipline, financial planning, retirement, mindset, meme stocks, emotional investing, money habits

If you’re in your 50s and wondering how to retire within the next decade, this episode is for you. Tony and Derek pick up where last week’s discussion left off, revealing the final five tips to strengthen your financial plan and protect your retirement dreams.They dive deep into practical strategies—protecting against inflation, managing healthcare costs, optimizing insurance, stress-testing your plan, and building a retirement lifestyle that’s both realistic and rewarding.You’ll learn how to: ✅ Hedge your nest egg against inflation’s hidden impact ✅ Maximize HSA and health-care planning strategies ✅ Reevaluate insurance coverage and eliminate unnecessary costs ✅ Stress-test your plan for market downturns and tax changes ✅ Build a bucket-list lifestyle without breaking your budgetIt’s not just about retiring—it’s about retiring right.📧 Questions or want a personalized plan? Contact the team at [email protected].

Imagine you’re in your mid-50s — the kids are grown, the mortgage is nearly gone, and you’re wondering if retirement within the next decade is possible. Tony Zabiegala and Derek Gabrielsen from Strategic Wealth Partners break down five practical steps to prepare for retirement without panic, drastic lifestyle changes, or confusion.From tightening your budget to eliminating bad debt, maximizing tax-advantaged accounts, adjusting your investment mix, and building a second income stream — this episode gives you real-world strategies you can act on today.👉 Part 2 drops next week, covering the next five tips to help you retire confidently and stress-free.📩 Questions or topic ideas? Email [email protected]

This week on The Capitalist Investor, Derek Gabrielsen and Dave Abate break down why even the most disciplined do-it-yourself investors are realizing that professional financial guidance isn’t a weakness—it’s wisdom.They explore the psychological and practical pitfalls of managing money alone, from behavioral biases to tax inefficiencies. Derek and Dave discuss how proper retirement income planning, tax strategy, and risk diversification can extend the life of your portfolio by up to 20%.Plus, they share stories from real-world client experiences—highlighting how “doing it yourself” can sometimes mean missing opportunities for smarter, long-term gains.Whether you’re nearing retirement or already there, this episode will help you rethink what true financial independence really means.#TheCapitalistInvestor #RetirementPlanning #WealthManagement #FinancialAdvice #DIYInvesting #TaxStrategy #FinancialPlanning #BehavioralFinance

For decades, retirement has been marketed as the finish line—a time to coast and relax. But what if that’s the wrong way to think about it? In this episode, Tony and Derek challenge the old idea of “retirement” and unpack how today’s retirees can turn uncertainty into opportunity.They discuss the fears many people face—like outliving your money, losing purpose, or feeling unsure what’s next—and share how smart financial planning can replace anxiety with confidence. From dynamic planning strategies that adapt to market volatility, to redefining wealth as time, freedom, and experience, this conversation is packed with real-world insights from advisors who see it every day.Whether you’re approaching retirement or already there, you’ll learn how to build a plan that works for your lifestyle—and your peace of mind.

YouTube and Google are full of self-proclaimed “financial experts” predicting the next market crash — but should you really listen to them?In this episode, Tony Zabiegala and Derek Gabrielsen from Strategic Wealth Partners break down the YouTube investing trap and explain why fear, FOMO, and flashy predictions can lead investors astray.They cover:Why fear-driven content gets more clicks than factsHow COVID fueled the rise of fake online “experts”The red flags to look for when watching YouTube financial contentHow to separate education from entertainmentWhy “get rich slow” still beats “get rich quick” every timeFrom AI-generated content to vague crash predictions, Tony and Derek explain how to stay grounded, focus on your real goals, and avoid falling for bad financial advice online.🎙️ The Capitalist Investor delivers candid conversations about money, markets, and mindset — cutting through the noise to help you think like a real investor.

Big changes are coming to retirement planning—and they may hit you sooner than you think. In this week’s episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek break down new rules that eliminate a key 401(k) tax break for employees over age 50 making more than $150,000Congress is now forcing these catch-up contributions into Roth accounts, removing the upfront tax deduction many workers rely on. While this may sound like bad news, Tony and Derek explain why having a Roth “bucket” might actually strengthen your long-term tax strategy.You’ll learn:Why losing this deduction isn’t as catastrophic as it soundsHow building three “buckets” (cash, tax-deferred, and tax-free) gives you flexibility in retirementWhat the new rules mean for Medicare surcharges and health care costsWhy the government is really making this change—and how it could affect your futureThey also share frustrations with the complexity of the Secure Act 2.0, including catch-up age rules, savers’ matches, and automatic enrollment requirements. Is it smart policy—or just another mess for workers and employers?👉 If you’re over 50 and planning for retirement, this episode is a must-listen.

With all the market noise and new policy changes in 2025, many experts are calling this the smartest year to retire. In this week’s episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek break down why this moment could represent the perfect storm for retirement planning.From locking in market gains after a massive run-up, to taking advantage of favorable tax brackets, to new rules for contributions and deductions—this episode uncovers the key opportunities retirees shouldn’t overlook. The guys also discuss healthcare and Medicare alignment, Social Security timing, and how lifestyle trends are reshaping what “retirement” looks like.Whether you’re one year away or still in the planning phase, this conversation will help you think strategically about your retirement timing.Stay tuned until the end for a quick bonus chat on the Ryder Cup and why the U.S. vs. Europe matchup is about more than just golf.👉 Questions or topic suggestions? Reach out to the show—we love hearing from listeners who want to take control of their financial future.

Are you underspending in retirement? Many retirees save diligently for decades but struggle to flip the switch from saving to spending. In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek reveal why so many people spend less than they could — and how to enjoy retirement without fear of running out of money.We’ll cover:Why retirees underspend even with strong financial plansHow a Monte Carlo simulation shows what you can safely spendThe difference between saving for legacy vs. enjoying life todayWhy the first 10 years of retirement are the most importantPractical financial planning strategies to spend confidently while protecting your futureIf you’ve ever wondered “How much can I safely spend in retirement?” or worried about outliving your savings, this episode will give you clarity and confidence. You worked hard for your wealth — now it’s time to enjoy it.

Remember the supply chain mess of 2020 or the sudden market drop of 2022? Those so-called “black swan” events hit hard and fast — and they’re not as rare as you think. In this week’s Capitalist Investor, the team dives into how unpredictable market shocks can devastate unprepared portfolios, why retirees are especially vulnerable, and the strategies you can use to safeguard your wealth. Don’t miss this candid conversation on protecting your retirement from the unexpected.#Investing #Retirement #Wealth #Markets #BlackSwans #Economy #FinancePodcast #FinancialPlanning

Dividend stocks have long been considered a safe haven for investors seeking steady income. But in today’s market—where interest rates are rising and economic conditions are shifting—are dividend stocks really the reliable play they used to be? Or are they luring investors into a trap with unsustainable yields and hidden risks? In this week’s episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony Zabiegala and Derek Gabrielsen break down the reality of dividend investing. They explore the history of dividends, the impact of inflation and interest rates, how to evaluate companies with strong vs. weak dividend policies, and what role dividends should play in a balanced portfolio. Whether you’re chasing income, planning for retirement, or simply trying to protect your capital, this discussion will help you separate facts from myths and build a strategy that actually works. 📩 Questions or want help building a strategy? Email us at [email protected].

On this episode of The Capitalist Investor, hosts Tony Zabiegala and Derek Gabrielsen unpack the rise of thematic investing. From meme stocks and AI ETFs to clean energy and crypto, investors are piling into trendy themes hoping to “get rich now.” But is thematic investing a smart long-term strategy — or just a dangerous distraction? Tony and Derek explore the psychology driving this movement, the risks of chasing hype, how to evaluate ETFs, and why balanced portfolios still matter most. 👉 Got questions or want to discuss your investment strategy? Email us at [email protected]

On this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony Zabiegala is joined by Dave Abate to tackle the dangerous “one-size-fits-all” advice that floods financial media—from TV personalities to radio shows and podcasts. They break down three of the most common myths they hear from clients: Annuities that promise 8–9% returnsFear-based Medicaid planning strategies that can destroy your retirement planHot tips about crypto, gold, and stocks that sound exciting—but rarely make sense in a real portfolioTony and Dave share the behind-the-scenes truth about how these recommendations are sold to the public and why you need a personalized strategy built around your specific goals—not media hype. They also share their “apple pie” analogy that simplifies how real planning works. 🎯 Have a financial idea you’ve been pitched recently? Bring it to your advisor before you implement it. 📬 Questions or topic ideas? Email [email protected]

The 60/40 portfolio (60% stocks, 40% bonds) has been called everything from the cornerstone of retirement planning to a relic of the past. With the Fed signaling multiple rate cuts, could bonds finally regain their place in balanced portfolios?In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony Zabiegala and Derek Gabrielsen discuss the history of the 60/40 model, why bonds collapsed in 2022, and whether alternatives like private credit, real estate, and annuities deserve a spot in your retirement plan. They also share practical strategies for creating a custom portfolio that aligns with your income needs and risk tolerance.

In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, we reveal three powerful investment strategies used by top-tier financial planning firms to help build diversified, long-term wealth—beyond stocks and bonds.These are not your typical 401(k) options. We break down:How private credit can deliver treasury-like risk with higher yieldWhy private real estate (not your average REITs) can provide steady income and long-term stabilityThe power of private equity and how it can scale businesses behind the scenesWhether you’re a high-net-worth investor or looking to build smarter retirement strategies, this episode covers what most advisors don’t tell you—because they can’t offer these investments.📧 Got questions or topic ideas? Email us: [email protected]#PrivateEquity #PrivateCredit #AlternativeInvestments #WealthStrategy #FinancialPlanning

Ohio’s move to a flat tax is making headlines, but the real story is what it means for your money. In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Mark and Tony explore how this shift could impact business owners, high-income earners, and retirees—and why it might open the door to smarter tax planning.From reducing tax drag to creating new opportunities for portfolio growth, we’ll show you how to turn a policy change into a financial advantage.👉 CTA: If you’ve got $3M+ invested and haven’t reviewed your tax strategy lately, it’s time. Feel free to email us at [email protected] for more information.

Is crypto becoming too regulated to be worth the risk—or is government oversight exactly what it needs? In this episode, Derek and guest host Dave break down the recently passed GENIUS Act and its impact on the future of cryptocurrency, from stablecoins and decentralization to government regulation and retirement planning. They explore whether retirees (and pre-retirees) should still consider crypto in their financial plans—and how to think about crypto beyond just Bitcoin. Plus, tips on how to get started without betting the farm. 

 Retirement isn’t just about reaching the finish line—it’s about making sure your money lasts as long as you do. In this week’s episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek break down five critical retirement moves that often get overlooked:✅ Recheck your withdrawal strategy ✅ Lock in healthcare coverage costs ✅ Review and adjust your tax strategy ✅ Simplify and consolidate accounts ✅ Establish a realistic monthly spending plan. Plus, they wrap things up with their picks for this year’s British Open. If you’re in or approaching retirement, this episode covers real-life insights and strategies to help you stay on track. 🔗 Have a question or show idea? Email us: [email protected] 🎧 Subscribe to get new episodes every week. 

In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek dig into a hot economic debate: Are tariffs inflationary or deflationary? They break down the political and economic implications of Trump’s proposed tariff policies, explore historical lessons, and discuss which industries are most likely to win or lose.Then, the guys shift gears to tackle a listener question about the “Big Beautiful Bill” and whether it actually helps retirees. Spoiler: If you’re under 65 or earning over a certain threshold, don’t expect much help.You’ll also hear some real talk on:Made in America vs. cheap importsWhy the market isn’t panicking (yet)Tomato inflation?!Who actually pays for tariffs—and how it could affect your walletWhether you’re a business owner, investor, or someone trying to make sense of the headlines, this episode delivers a no-fluff, practical look at what really matters for your financial future.📩 Got questions? Email the show at [email protected]

This week on The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek ask a big question: Can Gen X really retire? From inflation and rising healthcare costs to underfunded savings and Social Security uncertainty, they break down the biggest threats to the 45–60-year-old crowd’s financial future.They also dive into how pop culture has influenced Gen X's spending habits, the impact of Trump headlines on the market, and a few favorite things from their week. As always, it's real talk, practical insight, and a few hot takes you won’t want to miss.📩 Got a question or a topic idea? Email us at [email protected]#GenX #Retirement #Investing #SocialSecurity #CapitalistInvestor #FinancialPlanning

On this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek break down the 5 most common financial mistakes they see from DIY investors—and why avoiding professional guidance can cost you big time in the long run. From waiting too long to save, to misusing your 401(k), to failing to plan for taxes and estate issues, they walk through how each mistake impacts retirement.They also share real-world case studies, client stories, and practical strategies to help you avoid these traps. Whether you’re just starting out or closing in on retirement, this episode will help you rethink your financial strategy with clarity and confidence.📩 Got questions? Reach out at [email protected]

This week on The Capitalist Investor, we dive into how Warren Buffett’s timeless investing principles apply in today's AI-driven market. Joined by special guest Dave Abboud, we break down why Buffett’s long-term strategies still matter—and how investors can use AI tools to think like the Oracle of Omaha. We cover:Buffett’s biggest bets (Coca-Cola, Apple) and what made them geniusHow to cut through the noise in today’s tech-fueled marketsThe role of AI in identifying future winners (and why it’s just a tool)Lessons from Charlie Munger’s “Too Hard” pileWhy discipline always beats hype in investingBuffett may have underperformed in flashy bull markets—but his long game wins. Tune in to hear how you can apply these insights to build smarter portfolios in 2025 and beyond. 👉 Got questions or feedback? Reach out at [email protected]. 

This week on The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek break down what’s really driving the latest wave of retail investor behavior. From the return of meme stocks like GameStop and AMC to the AI-fueled obsession with Nvidia, they unpack why FOMO is creeping back into the markets—and why that’s a red flag. They cover: 🚨 Why meme stocks aren’t coming back like 2021💸 The danger of piling into overvalued AI stocks📊 Retail investors vs. institutional strategy📉 Signs we may be nearing a market top again💡 Smarter strategies: Dollar cost averaging, 80/20 risk planning, and staying the coursePlus, they throw in a bonus U.S. Open golf preview, including picks for Bryson, Scottie, and a bold Rory take. 🎯 Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just getting started, this episode will help you separate hype from smart investing—and avoid getting burned by retail mistakes. Have questions or a topic idea? Email the show at [email protected] #Investing #RetailInvestor #MemeStocks #AIFOMO #StockMarket #FinancialPlanning #TheCapitalistInvestor

Inflation Isn’t Going Anywhere — Now What? | 5 Key Takeaways for Investors This week on The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek dig into one of the most stubborn challenges in today’s economy: inflation. From what’s fueling it to how investors can respond, they unpack practical strategies for protecting and growing your wealth in today’s high-cost environment. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: Why inflation remains sticky and why the “new normal” might be here to stay.How the Fed’s interest rate decisions continue to impact housing, lending, and investor behavior.Which sectors perform best during inflation, including gold, energy, and dividend stocks.If real estate is still a safe hedge, or if a market correction could be coming.Why emotional investing is dangerous, and how to build a steady, long-term plan.Whether you're navigating your personal portfolio or managing wealth for others, this episode offers insights to help you stay grounded—and strategic—amid the noise. 📩 Have a question or a topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out at [email protected] #Investing #Inflation #InterestRates #RealEstate #FinancialPlanning #StockMarket