Stacking Up

This episode examines popular seasonal investing ideas—like "sell in May," the January effect, and the Santa Claus rally—and asks whether these patterns are real or just noise. Using historical data and behavioral finance insights, the host explains why calendar-based timing often fails, how markets evolve, and why long-term fundamentals, diversification, and staying invested usually matter more than trying to time the market.

Chris Harris breaks down April’s surprising market rebound, explaining how stocks surged despite geopolitical tensions, higher oil prices, and uncertainty around the Federal Reserve. Key data covered: S&P 500 up ~10%, NASDAQ and small caps posted larger gains, volatility fell, and oil and inflation risks remain elevated. Takeaways: markets can recover quickly in uncertain times, avoid market timing, prioritize diversification and a long-term financial plan, and keep an eye on oil, inflation, and Fed policy.

Chris Harris explains why recent headlines make markets feel fragile but that this uncertainty is normal during bull markets. He walks through the rise since late 2022, why markets follow earnings and expectations, and why trying to time short-term moves often harms long-term returns. Key takeaways: expect volatility, stay diversified, watch oil, labor, and AI risks, and keep your portfolio aligned to a clear financial plan.

Chris Harris breaks down current housing market data—rising 30-year mortgage rates, scarce existing-home supply as owners stay locked into low rates, and mixed signals from builders and price indices. He explains how affordability, new construction, and the wealth effect interact and what that means for the broader economy and individual financial plans. This episode gives a concise look at what buyers, sellers, and planners should watch: mortgage costs, lending standards, household debt service, and how supply and demand dynamics may shift prices and opportunities in the months ahead.

In this episode, Chris Harris walks through Medicare basics and dives into IRMAA surcharges—one of the most overlooked costs in retirement planning. Learn how income impacts your premiums and strategies to help keep more of your money working for you.

In this episode, Chris Harris covers how the U.S.–Iran conflict is impacting markets, primarily through rising energy prices. While higher oil prices have pushed inflation up, core inflation remains stable—suggesting the impact may be temporary if conditions improve. The job market is slowing, with weaker job growth and lower workforce participation, though unemployment remains steady. Despite this, corporate earnings remain strong, supporting markets during uncertainty. The key takeaway: short-term volatility is normal, but long-term investors benefit from staying disciplined and focused on fundamentals.

Chris Harris breaks down Q1 market and economic highlights, covering the impact of the Middle East conflict on oil prices, quarterly returns for major indexes, inflation and interest-rate snapshots, and shifts in the labor market. He discusses how energy-driven supply shocks, trade policy changes, and upcoming Fed and political events could influence the rest of the year, and stresses the value of staying invested and maintaining a long-term financial plan.

Chris Harris breaks down how rising gas and diesel prices—fueled by geopolitical tensions—are squeezing household budgets, raising costs for goods, and pushing headline inflation higher. He explains what this means for the Fed’s rate decisions, investor expectations, and long-term portfolios, and offers a clear case for staying invested with a well-constructed financial plan.

On this episode Chris Harris breaks down the Fed's decision to hold rates steady, the market impact of escalating tensions in Iran and rising oil prices, and how those shocks are driving sector-level volatility. We also explore the growing debate around AI's impact on tech and SaaS businesses, the recent rotation into energy and defensive sectors, and simple takeaways on portfolio diversification and financial planning.

Host Chris Harris examines how the conflict in Iran and shipping risks in the Strait of Hormuz have driven oil from roughly $70 to around $100 per barrel, creating market volatility and renewed stagflation concerns. The episode explains the supply-driven (cost-push) effects on gasoline and consumer prices, the potential Fed response on interest rates, and how U.S. shale production and diversified investment plans can help cushion the impact.

Chris Harris breaks down the Federal Reserve's Jackson Hole signal that interest-rate cuts may be near and explains what that could mean for stocks, bonds, inflation, and jobs. He reviews corporate yields, market confidence, tariff-driven risks, and cooling payrolls, and emphasizes a disciplined, long-term asset-allocation approach over trying to time the market.

In this episode of the Stacking Up Podcast, host Chris Harris delves into a significant piece of legislation recently passed by Congress and signed into law by President Trump. Dubbed the "One Big Beautiful Bill," this new tax and spending package is examined for its comprehensive changes and long-term planning benefits it offers taxpayers. Chris provides an overview of the bill’s major components, including the extension of certain tax brackets, alterations to standard deductions, and consequential impacts on strategies for charity contributions and itemized deductions. He also discusses changes affecting high-income earners, significant updates on state and local tax deductions, as well as new credits for auto loans and renewable energy projects. The podcast offers insights into how these legislative adjustments provide much-needed clarity and stability, valuable for both personal and business financial strategizing. Chris emphasizes the importance of working closely with tax professionals to navigate the complexities of these changes and make informed financial decisions moving forward.

In this episode of the Stacking Up Podcast, host Chris Harris delves into the complex dynamics of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran. As tensions rise in the Middle East, Chris explores the implications for global financial markets and the importance of maintaining a long-term investment perspective. Learn how recent geopolitical events, including Israeli attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities and the potential for international escalation, are influencing market volatility and oil prices. Chris emphasizes the significance of disciplined investing and historical market patterns in understanding the current economic landscape. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this episode provides valuable insights on navigating financial uncertainty during these turbulent times.

Welcome to "Stacking Up," where host Chris Harris delves into the crucial financial mistakes business owners frequently make and shares strategies to avoid them. Drawing from his extensive experience as a wealth manager and former business owner, Chris provides insights applicable to both new and seasoned entrepreneurs. This episode focuses on essential financial practices, from separating business and personal finances to tracking key metrics and planning for tax liabilities. Take the guesswork out of managing your business's finances and ensure sustainable growth with these actionable tips. Whether you're struggling with budgeting, pricing, or hiring, discover how strategic planning can transform your business operations and secure your financial future.

Join Chris Harris, a Certified Financial Planner® and owner of Harris Wealth Management, in this episode of the Stacking Up Podcast, as he delves into the investment principles and philosophies of the legendary Warren Buffett. With Buffett stepping down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway after over five decades of remarkable leadership, Chris reflects on the timeless strategies and wisdom that have made Buffett an iconic figure in the world of economics and finance. Discover key lessons such as maintaining emotional control during market ups and downs, understanding the intrinsic value beyond stock prices, and embracing a long-term perspective. Chris shares how these principles have shaped his approach to investment and urges listeners to integrate these insights into their financial strategies. Don't miss the opportunity to gain valuable understanding of market dynamics and the importance of patience, analysis, and fundamental evaluation from one of the greatest investors of all time. Tune in to equip yourself with the tools to make informed and confident investment decisions.

In this insightful episode of the Stacking Up Podcast, host Chris Harris takes listeners on a journey through the vital aspects of retirement planning. Addressing common fears and misconceptions, Chris emphasizes the significance of starting early and being proactive in preparing for your retirement to achieve peace of mind. Exploring essential questions like what retirement looks like for you and how to achieve it, Chris provides guidance on creating a realistic vision of retirement. Whether it's about maintaining your current lifestyle or adjusting to new realities, listeners will discover actionable strategies to align their financial goals with their retirement dreams. With a focus on budgeting, investment strategies, and understanding income sources like Social Security and 401(k)s, this episode provides a comprehensive roadmap. Chris explains the importance of evaluating medical costs, taxes, and potential changes in lifestyle to build a solid retirement plan. Rich in practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to fortify their financial future and make the most out of their golden years.

Welcome to Stacking Up — the show where we talk money, health, and relationships, because the small things you do every day? They compound. I’m Chris Harris, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® who believes wealth is more than numbers — it’s habits, connection, and growth. Let’s stack up the stuff that really matters-one episode at a time.