The Financially Fit Couple

Host Matthew Gray welcomes Carine Keenan, a marriage and family therapist, and Joe Keenan, a CFP and CPA, to discuss why money commonly fuels conflict in busy marriages and how couples can turn disagreements into growth. They explain that money issues often connect to safety and security, with saver–spender differences frequently rooted in childhood “money classroom” experiences and personal values like status or future security. Communication breaks down through avoidance, poor timing, and stress (HALTS: hungry, angry, lonely, tired, stressed), which amplifies anxiety. Tools include building self-awareness, using I-statements, scheduling regular “money talks,” creating a fun routine, and using timeouts with a commitment to resume within a day. They distinguish coaching (forward-focused planning and mindset) from therapy (healing deeper, compulsive or impairing behaviors) and describe their Keenan Financial Coaching work with couples across life transitions.00:37 Meet the Guests04:46 Why Money Peace Matters07:00 Why Couples Fight About Money08:38 Savers vs Spenders Explained10:56 Why Communication Breaks Down14:24 Avoidance and Better Timing16:44 Owning Your Money Fears20:22 Early Money Classroom Exercise22:45 Retail Therapy and Awareness Hacks24:16 Money Talks and Timeouts32:17 Make Meetings Fun33:47 Agenda And Prep System36:10 Keep Growing Together40:00 When To Get Help42:55 Coaching Vs Counseling46:30 Who Their Coaching Serves50:05 Final Takeaways And WrapResourcesCarine & Joe Keenanhttps://keenanfinancialcoaching.com/Matthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

Matthew Gray hosts an episode of the Financially Fit Couple with guest Sarah Carr, a CFP® and certified financial therapist, to discuss how couples communicate about money. Sarah explains financial therapy as the convergence of financial planning and mental health, clarifying she is not a licensed mental health clinician and does not diagnose or create treatment plans, but helps identify emotional barriers that block follow-through on financial plans. They explore why money is a top source of conflict, how it can represent many different piece of our identity, and how subconscious “money scripts” formed in childhood shape behavior. The discussion emphasizes shared goals, curiosity, and creating emotional safety, using values-based planning to align spending with what matters. Also covered in the conversation are regular money check-ins, worksheets, and the Financial Therapy Association directory to find help.00:38 Meet Sarah Carr02:33 What Is Financial Therapy05:18 Emotions Block Action07:16 Why Money Talks Are Hard09:26 Money Scripts And Origins13:23 Healthy Couple Communication26:48 Finding Your Values27:48 Reconciling Different Values30:16 Curiosity Over Conflict33:28 Creating Safety in Money Talks36:03 Internal Scripts and Trauma45:58 Practical Tools and Money Check Ins49:44 When to Seek Financial TherapyResourcesSarah CarrMoney Histories Worksheet (file:///S:/Shared%20Files/Podcast/Sarah%20Carr/Money%20Histories%20Sarah%20Carr%20Financial.pdf) https://sarahcarrfinancial.com/ Matthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

Matthew Gray hosts and welcomes repeat guest Rick Williams, a licensed Virginia realtor with Kline May Realty, to explain the home-selling process. Rick emphasizes that selling is more than listing and waiting, and outlines common seller mistakes such as doing major renovations without advice, waiting for “perfect timing,” and leaning on friends instead of professionals. He describes how he prices homes using comparative market analysis with AI tools plus manual MLS review and broker input, and why pricing too high or too low can deter buyers. They discuss preparing a home, listing steps, evaluating offers beyond price, and how AI helps communications and marketing. They also touch on how AI can’t replace local expertise, judgment, or negotiation.00:38 Meet Rick Williams03:07 Why Selling Is Complex05:22 Common Seller Mistakes10:32 Goals and Strategy Fit13:32 How to Price Right18:11 Prep and Repairs23:52 Listing and Marketing Plan27:09 Evaluating Offers30:01 Contingencies Explained35:31 From Contract to Closing38:45 AI Tools and Pitfalls43:23 Final Advice and Wrap UpResourcesRick Williamshttp://realestatewithrick.net/[email protected] Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

Matthew Gray interviews attorney Michael Sharp about the risks and process of leaving stable employment to start a business while married with young children. Sharp, owner of Sharp Litigation, PLC in Harrisonburg, Virginia, describes moving from associate to partner and managing partner at a larger firm, then realizing partnership has a different vision of ownership, values, teamwork, and strategic business focus he expected. After clarifying essentials such as connected teamwork, a narrowed civil-litigation focus, and a supportive culture, he planned the transition with his wife—including a detailed financial/time presentation—and launched his firm in January 2024 with two colleagues. He discusses early infrastructure challenges, managing time with family, hiring operational support to free him for revenue-generating legal work, building and formalizing systems as the team grows, unexpected community support, and a client-as-hero philosophy applied to intake and communication.00:37 Meet Michael Sharp02:20 From Associate to Partner05:05 What Partnership Really Means08:22 Essentialism and Values11:18 Building a Team Vision13:53 The Leap and Family Buy In18:35 First Months in Business21:02 Time Freedom and Hiring Help23:49 Systems Growth Pains27:49 Unexpected Wins and Advice32:25 Client as the Hero37:19 Who They Serve and Wrap UpResourcesMichael Sharphttps://www.sharplitigation.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-sharp-279013288/https://www.amazon.com/Essentialism-Disciplined-Pursuit-Greg-McKeown/dp/0804137382Matthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

Host Matthew Gray, welcomes personal finance professor and behavioral economist Jeff Hulett to discuss why people struggle to make good financial decisions even when they know what they should do. Jeff contrasts objective business decision-making with common consumer behavior and explains three drivers of poor decisions: human neurobiology, short-term thinking, and an American “buy now, pay later” commercial culture. He describes “choice architecture” as a structured, repeatable decision process supported by technology that helps people define and weight their personal criteria, consider alternatives, reduce confirmation bias, and improve confidence—especially for major decisions like buying a house, including helping couples reconcile preferences. Jeff introduces his “Five Nots” (the “not to seek” framework) to build the mindset needed to live below one’s means: not luxury, not ignorance (failure to update beliefs), not vanity, not immediate gratification, and not risk avoidance. Jeff shows how misinformation and unexamined beliefs can lead to harmful outcomes. The episode closes with resources including Jeff's book “Making Choices, Making Money,” access to decision-making software (Definitive), and guidance on using generative AI as a thinking partner rather than a crutch.00:37 Today’s Topic: Why Money Decisions Feel So Hard02:03 Meet Jeff: Behavioral Economist + Banker Perspective05:13 The $16 Million Retirement Path (and Why Most Miss It)08:38 Why Bad Money Decisions Happen: Brain, Culture, and the Information Age14:49 What Is Choice Architecture? A Repeatable Decision-Making System19:57 Values vs Feelings: Using Structure to Beat Confirmation Bias22:29 Couples Example: Reconciling Priorities When Buying a Home26:33 The “Five Nots” Framework: A Mindset for Living Below Your Means30:21 Not Seeking More: Diminishing Returns on Luxuries (Morgan Housel Tie-In)31:11 Money, Income & Happiness: The Curve That Flattens Out33:52 The 5 “Not-Seeking” Rules (Football Field Boundaries)35:30 Not Luxury: Beating FOMO (The $17,000 Bike ‘Faux Pro’ Trap)41:52 Opportunity Cost Reality Check: What That Upgrade Really Costs43:55 Not Ignorance: Updating Beliefs, Habits & Confirmation Bias51:39 From Framework to Life Decisions: The “Good Decision Road”55:34 Tools to Apply It: Book, Choice Architecture Software & GenAI59:10 Parenting & Quiet Wealth + Wrap-Up, DisclosuresResourcesJeff Huletthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffhulett/https://www.financerevamp.com/Making Choices, Making Money BookThe Art of Spending BookMatthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

In this episode of the Financially Fit Couple, host Matthew Gray, a certified financial planner, is joined by Jordan Tucker from Impax Asset Management to discuss ethically screened investing. The conversation covers the history, principles, and current practices of sustainable investing, emphasizing how investors can align their investments with their values without sacrificing performance. Jordan explains the rigorous screening process used by Impax, the importance of ongoing due diligence, and how they engage with companies to drive positive change. The episode also addresses common misconceptions about sustainable investing and provides actionable steps for those interested in incorporating ethically screened investments into their portfolios.00:00 Welcome to the Financially Fit Couple00:38 Introduction to Ethically Screened Investing01:42 Guest Introduction: Jordan Tucker01:55 The Evolution of Ethically Screened Investing04:14 Impax Asset Management's Approach06:45 Screening Process and Criteria25:14 Engagement and Advocacy Efforts32:32 Addressing Misconceptions39:01 Getting Started with Ethically Screened Investing40:44 Final Thoughts and DisclosuresJordan Tuckerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-tucker-cfp%C2%AE-29016371/Jordan Tucker and Impax Asset Management are not affiliated with or endorsed by LPL Financial.Matthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

In this episode of the Financially Fit Couple podcast, host and certified financial planner Matthew Gray welcomes financial coach Lindsey Scott to discuss the practical and emotional aspects of financial coaching and planning. The conversation explores their different yet complementary roles, with Lindsey emphasizing the importance of understanding personal finance basics and building good habits, while Matthew discusses the more technical side of financial planning. They dive into the process of working with clients, defining success, and finding the right financial support. Key topics include budgeting, debt management, building wealth, and the significance of communication and readiness in financial coaching.00:00 Welcome to the Financially Fit Couple00:38 Introducing Lindsey Scott: Financial Coach01:54 Lindsey's Journey to Financial Coaching04:02 The Impact of Financial Coaching05:49 Understanding Financial Coaching12:17 The Coaching Process15:24 Who Benefits from Financial Coaching?19:42 Financial Coaching vs. Financial Planning24:02 Finding the Right Financial Coach28:18 Costs and Getting Started34:41 Final Thoughts ResourcesLindsey Scotthttps://www.lindseyscottfinancialcoach.com/Matthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

In this episode of the Financially Fit Couple podcast, host Matthew Gray interviews John and Alexis Stevens, a married couple from Harrisonburg, Virginia, who share their unique career journeys and the financial implications of making significant career changes. John recounts his transition from a high school math teacher to a meteorologist and then to an IT trainer, while Alexis discusses her stable career as a university professor. They explore the challenges and rewards of pursuing one's dream job, the importance of family values in career decisions, and the financial strategies that helped them navigate these changes. The episode offers valuable insights for couples considering career changes and emphasizes the importance of aligning career choices with personal values and family well-being.00:00 Welcome to the Financially Fit Couple00:42 Meet John and Alexis Stevens02:29 Childhood Dreams and Career Paths08:06 The Journey to Becoming a University Professor10:40 John's Teaching Career and Challenges14:07 Pursuing a Dream in Meteorology19:45 The Big Career Change27:54 Financial Implications of the Career Move29:42 Starting a New Career: The First Year Experience32:41 Adjusting to a New Lifestyle35:07 The Toll on Family and Health36:54 Realizing the Need for Change44:15 Searching for a New Path46:00 Finding the Perfect Fit49:02 Reflecting on the Journey56:32 Final Thoughts and AdviceMatthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

In this episode of the Financially Fit Couple podcast, host Matthew Gray, a certified financial planner, speaks with Mackensie Ellis from Grad Fin about financing education through student loans. The discussion covers key points such as the difference between federal and private student loans, the application process, and various repayment and forgiveness options. The episode also delves into upcoming changes to student loan programs, refinancing strategies, and how Grad Fin provides free consultation services to help borrowers navigate these complex topics. The conversation aims to empower listeners with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about managing student loans.00:00 Welcome to the Financially Fit Couple00:38 Introducing Mackensie Ellis and the Topic of Student Loans01:28 Mackensie's Journey into the Student Loan Space04:27 Understanding Federal vs. Private Student Loans08:23 Navigating the FAFSA and Loan Options16:20 Grad Fin's Role in Student Loan Consultation19:00 Exploring Student Loan Forgiveness Options28:04 Understanding Recertification Dates29:29 Repayment Options Overview31:02 Income-Driven Repayment Plans40:07 Changes in Repayment Plans46:02 Refinancing Private Loans51:19 Grad FIN's Free Consultation Process53:40 Conclusion and DisclosuresResources:https://gradfin.com/studentaid.govUnderstanding the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA): What You Need to Know | Laurel RoadOne Big Beautiful Bill FAQs - Gradfin - Achieve your financial ​goalsPublic Service Loan Forgiveness | Federal Student AidIncome-Driven Repayment Plans | Federal Student AidMatthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

In this episode of the Financially Fit Couple podcast, host Matthew Gray welcomes Teri Janes from LD&B Insurance to discuss essential insurance policies for married couples. They delve into the intricacies of home and auto insurance, including dwelling coverage, personal property, liability, comprehensive, and collision coverages. Teri explains various endorsements like guaranteed replacement cost, water coverage, and the importance of reviewing policies during life events. The conversation also explores umbrella insurance, detailing its benefits and real-life scenarios where it becomes crucial. Listeners will gain valuable insights into making informed decisions about their insurance needs.00:38 Introduction to Home and Auto Insurance02:18 Understanding Home Insurance Basics05:34 Diving Deeper into Home Insurance16:41 Exploring Auto Insurance Essentials24:58 The Importance of Umbrella Insurance30:24 When to Review Your Insurance Policies32:25 Choosing the Right Insurance Agent35:56 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationResourcesTeri [email protected]://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-janes-31313b87/LPL Financial and LD&B Financial are separate entities. Matthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

In this episode of the Financially Fit Couple, Matthew Gray welcomes Raymond Brown to discuss the importance of consistency and community in achieving fitness and financial goals. Raymond shares his personal journey growing up in an unhealthy environment and how he turned to sports and fitness as a vital outlet. Now, as a dedicated husband and father, Raymond emphasizes integrating movement into daily life and making fitness a core family value. He discusses the impact of routine and habits, especially in challenging times like the pandemic, and how community support plays a crucial role in staying motivated. Raymond also draws parallels between fitness and financial health, highlighting the importance of taking small steps and seeking help from others to achieve long-term success. The episode concludes with actionable advice for listeners to incorporate fitness and financial well-being into their lives.02:34 Guest Introduction and Fitness Journey03:33 The Importance of Movement and Fitness06:33 Fitness Regimen07:31 Family and Fitness During the Pandemic10:22 The Power of Community and Consistency17:43 Mindset and Overcoming Barriers35:01 Incorporating Fitness into Daily Life41:05 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysRaymond Brownhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/raymondabrown/Matthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

In this episode of the Financially Fit Couple, host Matthew Gray is joined by Josiah Rider from Atlantic Union Bank. They discuss the value of building a strong relationship with your banker, especially for busy married couples managing their finances. Key topics include the significance of having a personal banker, the advantages of home equity lines of credit, how major life events should prompt financial discussions, and the importance of creating a strategic plan for financial stability. The episode underscores that proactive communication with a banker can help couples navigate financial decisions, manage debt, and prepare for unexpected changes, ultimately contributing to a financially healthier marriage.00:38 Meet Our Guest: Josiah Rider03:36 The Importance of a Personal Banker05:58 Building a Strong Financial Relationship17:10 Understanding Home Equity Lines of Credit24:56 Proactive Financial Planning for Life Events27:47 Enhancing Spousal Communication Through Banking37:41 How to Find and Work with a Personal BankerJosiah Riderhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/josiah-rider-583198a4/[email protected] Matthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

In this episode of the Financially Fit Couple, Matthew Gray is joined by Beth Driver, an attorney specializing in estate planning at Evans Driver in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Together, they explore the importance of estate planning for married couples aged 30 to 50 with children at home. Beth shares her personal journey into estate planning and discusses key elements such as wills, power of attorney, advanced medical directives, and trusts. The conversation highlights the potential pitfalls of DIY estate planning, the importance of tailoring documents to individual needs, and the ongoing nature of estate planning. Beth also emphasizes why consulting a professional can save time and money in the long run, and outlines the client-friendly approach of her firm which includes free consultations and flat-fee pricing.01:37 Beth Driver's Journey into Estate Planning05:35 The Importance of Estate Planning for Young Families07:38 Steps to Creating an Estate Plan15:17 Understanding Key Estate Planning Documents17:35 The Role and Benefits of Trusts in Estate Planning25:29 Managing Assets for Minor Children31:34 Reviewing and Updating Estate Plans37:36 Pitfalls of DIY Estate Planning42:35 Steps to Start Estate Planning44:35 Cost Transparency in Legal Services47:16 Final Thoughts and EncouragementResourceshttps://www.evansdriver.com/540-410-1553Matthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

In this episode of the Financially Fit Couple podcast, host Matthew Gray welcomes Billy Hay to discuss the latest changes in tax legislation and what they mean for busy married couples with kids. They dive deep into key topics such as adjustments in charitable giving, state and local taxes (SALT), auto loan interest deductions, clean energy credits, tip and overtime taxation, bonus depreciation, and the new Trump accounts for kids. They also clarify misconceptions surrounding Social Security taxation and the standard deduction. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to stay ahead of their taxes and understand the implications of recent legislative changes.00:38 Introduction to Today's Topic: Tax Legislation Changes01:53 Guest Introduction: Meet Billy Hay, CPA04:31 Charitable Giving: New Tax Benefits09:04 State and Local Taxes: SALT Deduction Changes15:41 Clean Energy Credits: Act Now Before They Expire20:02 Overtime and Tips: New Tax Rules26:07 Bonus Depreciation: What Business Owners Need to Know30:22 Trump Accounts for Kids: What We Know So Far35:04 What's Not Changing: Common Misconceptions40:03 Final Thoughts and AdviceResourceshttps://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/clean-vehicle-and-energy-creditshttps://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/smart-money/standard-deductionhttps://www.dykema.com/news-insights/landmark-tax-legislation-of-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-act-what-it-means-for-you.html#:~:text=For%202025%2C%20the%20deduction%20is,tax%20credit%20is%20made%20permanent.Matthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

In this episode of the Financially Fit Couple, Matthew Gray engages with Tessa Von Lossberg from LD&B Financial to delve into the often-overlooked yet crucial topic of life insurance. Tessa shares her unexpected journey into life insurance and emphasizes its importance in a comprehensive financial plan. They discuss the basics of life insurance, distinguish between term and permanent policies, and explore common misconceptions and mistakes couples make regarding coverage. The conversation also covers how to assess life insurance needs, the potential inadequacy of employer-provided plans, and the significance of reassessing coverage after major life events. Tessa provides practical advice on how to start the conversation with a partner about life insurance and outlines the steps to get adequate coverage. Real-life examples illustrate the profound impact life insurance can have on families. Listeners are encouraged to take timely action to ensure financial protection for their loved ones.00:38 Introduction to Life Insurance with Tessa 01:18 Tessa's Journey into Life Insurance03:17 Understanding Life Insurance Basics06:58 Types of Life Insurance Policies10:22 Employer-Provided Life Insurance13:44 Determining Your Life Insurance Needs19:44 Common Mistakes and Real-Life Examples28:45 Taking Action and Next Steps32:06 Conclusion and Contact InformationTessa's Contact Infohttps://www.ldbfinancialgroup.com/meet-our-team/(540) [email protected] Financial and LD&B Financial are separate entities. Matthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

In this episode, host Matthew Gray speaks with Aaron Cosner, Upper School Principal at Redeemer Classical School in Harrisonburg, Virginia. They delve into the complex topic of investing in education, both primary and secondary, discussing the nuances between public and private schooling. Aaron shares his personal journey through different educational landscapes and provides insights on how various educational approaches align with family values and future goals. They also cover considerations for college applications, the evolving career landscape, the resurgence of trade professions, and practical steps for parents evaluating private school options. The episode concludes with actionable takeaways for parents.00:36 Introducing Our Guest: Aaron Costner00:54 The Value of Investing in Education01:27 Aaron's Educational Journey03:05 Public vs. Private Education05:15 The Bigger Picture: Goals of Education11:13 College Admissions Insights18:17 The Changing Landscape of College and Trades23:36 The ROI of Private School Education35:58 Actionable Steps for Parents38:02 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationResourcesRedeemer Classical WebsiteAaron's ProfileCal NewportMatthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

In this episode of the Financially Fit Couple podcast, host Matthew Gray dives into the intricacies of financial planning for young married couples with guest Malachi Bontrager, a financial advisor at LD&B Financial. The discussion covers the principles of balancing immediate financial desires with long-term goals, emphasizing the importance of intentional planning and the concept of delayed gratification. Key topics include effective tax planning strategies such as Roth IRAs and capital gains harvesting, practical advice for funding college education and navigating the housing market. The episode also explores actionable steps for saving, the emotional factors involved in financial decisions, and how to align financial planning with personal values and goals.00:40 Introducing Malachi Bontrager01:07 Balancing Now vs. Later in Financial Planning05:40 Understanding the Debt Crisis10:14 The Benefits of Paying Taxes Now18:48 Roth Conversions and Tax Strategies21:04 College Planning and Saving Strategies for Education32:36 Navigating the Housing Market: Rent vs. Buy35:36 Current Housing Market Trends41:23 Balancing Financial and Emotional Decisions in Home Buying44:19 Concluding Thoughts on Financial PlanningResourcesTuition TrackerRent vs. Buying Home CalculatorMalachi Bontragerhttps://www.ldbfinancialgroup.com/meet-our-team/[email protected] Financial and LD&B Financial are separate entities. Matthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

In this episode of the Financially Fit Couple, host Matthew Gray talks with Bryce Rogers about his journey from being a professional drummer to owning multiple rental properties. Bryce shares his experiences, the resources he used to educate himself, the challenges and benefits of self-managing versus hiring a property manager, and how he and his wife have worked together in their investment endeavors. He provides valuable insights and advice for listeners considering real estate investing. Additionally, Bryce discusses the importance of setting financial parameters, building a support network, and managing fear when starting out. This episode offers a real-life look at the path to becoming a successful real estate investor.00:42 Introducing Bryce Rogers01:35 Bryce's Journey into Real Estate04:34 First Steps: Resources and Learning06:39 First Property Purchase and Management12:25 Expanding the Portfolio: Second Property15:33 Current Portfolio and Management Strategies21:25 Advice for Aspiring Real Estate Investors25:29 Conclusion and Contact InformationEpisode ResourcesBigger Pockets Podcast Rich Dad, Poor Dad Book RentRedi Property Management App Bryce [email protected] Matthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

In this episode of the Financially Fit Couple podcast, host Matthew Gray is joined by disability insurance expert Grayson Owen. They discuss the importance of disability insurance, the types of coverage available, and how to determine the right plan for your needs. The conversation covers key factors like elimination periods, benefit duration, and premium costs, emphasizing the need for proactive financial planning. Listeners are encouraged to evaluate their current coverage, especially if they are self-employed or unsure about their employer-provided benefits. Grayson also addresses common misconceptions and provides practical steps for securing adequate disability insurance.00:39 Introducing Grayson Owen: Disability Insurance Expert01:29 Understanding Disability Insurance07:56 Key Components of Long-Term Disability Insurance19:33 Evaluating Your Coverage Needs26:54 Action Steps for Ensuring Adequate Coverage32:35 Final Thoughts and Professional AdviceGrayson OwenFind Grayson on [email protected] Income Protection PodcastMatthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

In this episode Matthew Gray is joined by Rick Williams, a seasoned real estate expert, to discuss the intricacies of the home buying process. They cover various aspects from determining readiness to engage with a realtor, the importance of pre-approval, to understanding buyer beware states. Rick also sheds light on the benefits of having a dedicated real estate agent, the timeline from offer to closing, and strategies for competitive markets. The episode concludes with insights into current market conditions and advice for potential buyers. 05:36 Getting Started: Preparing to Buy a Home10:57 Understanding Realtor Relationships and Pre-Approval20:51 Navigating the Home Search Process30:23 Making an Offer and Negotiations38:29 Closing the Deal and Final Steps52:47 Final Thoughts Rick Williams, [email protected]://realestatewithrick.net/Matthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 

In this episode of the Financially Fit Couple podcast, host and CFP® Matthew Gray sits down with real estate financing expert Annie King to discuss various aspects of buying a home. They cover crucial topics including financing a first home, purchasing a second home or vacation property, and house hacking. Annie also explains the myths around the 20% down payment, the nuances of PMI, and the ins and outs of home equity loans and lines of credit. Additionally, they delve into scenarios like selling an existing home to build a new one, keeping your old house as a rental, and financing home renovations. The episode wraps up with practical advice for couples considering investment properties and the importance of early preparation in the home-buying process.00:00 Welcome to the Financially Fit Couple01:05 Annie King's Journey in Mortgage Lending03:05 Understanding Loan Programs for First-Time Home Buyers05:55 Debunking the 20% Down Payment Myth08:48 Navigating the Process of Selling and Buying a New Home12:54 Building a New Home: Land and Construction Loans16:21 Exploring House Hacking17:49 Understanding Down Payments for Second Homes19:57 Financing Home Additions and Renovations21:32 Home Equity Loans and Lines of Credit Explained27:11 Pros and Cons of Moving vs. Renovating28:05 Getting Started with Investment Properties31:22 Preparing for the Home Buying Process33:53 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsAnnie [email protected] https://www.pvfcu.org/mortgage/Matthew Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-cfp%C2%AE-5a2144134/https://schrockfin.com/Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC