Johnson Brunetti Money Wisdom

Global conflicts are casting a long shadow over the U.S. economy, and the Federal Reserve is officially sounding the alarm. With energy shocks and persistent inflation, businesses across the country are facing heightened uncertainty. But while the corporate world adopts a "wait-and-see" approach, retirees can’t afford to stand still. In this episode, host Mark Elliott and Financial Advisor Eric Hogarth unpack the Fed’s latest warnings and reveal why taking proactive steps today can help protect your life savings. The two also dive into the listener mailbag and go over a few questions you’ve submitted!

On today’s episode, Eric Hogarth and Mark Elliott dive into the essentials of 401k plans and share practical strategies to help you make sure your retirement savings last as long as you do. Whether you’re just starting out or nearing retirement, tune in as our experts break down tips for maximizing your 401k, avoiding common pitfalls, and planning wisely so you can enjoy financial security in your golden years.

In this episode, Eric Hogarth and Mark Elliott dive into some of the most common money habits holding Americans back from reaching their financial goals. With only 36 percent of Americans having a written financial plan, many are “winging it” when it comes to spending and saving. The discussion covers practical ways to break habits like living without a budget, neglecting your emergency fund, carrying credit card balances, and not maximizing your savings accounts.

Join Financial Advisor Eric Hogarth and co-host Mark Elliott on this eye-opening “best-of” episode about legacy planning—because protecting your loved ones isn’t just for the wealthy; it’s for everyone. Discover how a clear estate plan can prevent costly mistakes, minimize emotional stress, and ensure your wishes are honored.

With rising tensions and ongoing global conflicts making headlines, many are wondering what this uncertainty could mean for their finances – especially retirees living on their life savings. In this episode, Eric Hogarth and Mark Elliott discuss the realities of investing during times of conflict and strategies to help keep your money preserved through the chaos.

This episode Eric Hogarth and Mark Elliott will explore the surprising gaps in Americans’ retirement and financial literacy, focusing on findings from The American College of Financial Services.

Deciding when to retire involves more than just hitting a certain age or savings number. It's a complex decision with financial, emotional, and social dimensions. This week, Jake Doser joins Mark Elliott to help you find answers to the most important question: “Am I truly ready to retire?”

Retirement planning goes well beyond collecting financial tools—it's about having a blueprint built for confidence, security, and adaptability. In this episode, we break down the critical differences between simply owning investment products (like 401(k)s and IRAs) and having a true retirement plan designed to last through market shifts, inflation, and changing tax laws. Eric Hogarth and Mark Elliott tackle common misconceptions—like the idea that Social Security is always tax-free—and share tips on what to ask when evaluating your current plan or seeking a second opinion.

What could the stock market do in 2026? While many Americans remain concerned about the economy, most analysts are forecasting a positive year for the markets. This week, Jake Doser joins Mark Elliott to break down some of the top factors when it comes to investing in 2026, from the role of AI to the importance of diversification.

On this episode, we dive into the essentials of estate and legacy planning, breaking down why it’s important for everyone—regardless of wealth or background.

What could the stock market do in 2026? While many Americans remain concerned about the economy, most analysts are forecasting a positive year for the markets. This week, Jake Doser joins [HOST NAME] to break down some of the top factors when it comes to investing in 2026, from the role of AI to the importance of diversification.

“Do you think you’d make the grade when it comes to financial literacy? Most Americans between the ages of 50 and 75 scored low marks when it comes to a retirement income literacy quiz, according to The American College of Financial Services. Jake Doser and Mark Elliott what goes into America’s Financial Literacy Score and some areas we could improve upon”

Do you think you’d make the grade when it comes to financial literacy? Most Americans between the ages of 50 and 75 scored low marks when it comes to a retirement income literacy quiz, according to The American College of Financial Services. Jake Doser and Mark Elliott discuss what are the things we should consider in order to improve our financial literacy.

With 2026 finally here, new changes to retirement accounts, Social Security, and Medicare are taking effect. This week, Eric Hogarth joins Mark Elliott for the 2026 Retirement Forecast, breaking down the key updates you need to know and what they mean for your financial future.

Most Important Conversations Ever

 Life can have its awkward moments, especially when money enters the equation. Eric explains how he's helped clients navigate various awkward situations that he's encountered over the years.

If you have a 401k but don't spend much time thinking about it, Eric is here to highlight what you should be thinking about. Or if you do think about it a lot...are you thinking about it in the right way?

Clients (or soon to be clients) all seem to be concerned about a handful of the same issues right now. Eric tackles some of these common concerns and questions that we're hearing several times a week.

In honor of this year's NFL draft, we're hosting a financial draft, with Eric serving as the GM of the retirement planning team. Which tools and strategies should be considered a first round pick, what should go in a later round, and what shouldn't be drafted at all?

Different types of clients come with all sorts of varying questions, concerns, and stories. Eric talks about the many different types of conversations that unfold with different types of people.

What can we learn about retirement planning from the great Steve Martin? Well, probably more than you think...