The Novice and The Nerd

Most of us in Generation X/Y learned about money management and finances from our parents. Well, times have changed and so have our finances! No longer should we rely on our parents for financial literacy…if you’re looking to better navigate your financial life, this podcast is for you! Join Laura Bard and Derek Amey from StrategicPoint Investment Advisors (AKA, the “novice” and the “nerd”), where two 40-somethings in the financial services industry (but with very different roles) discuss every day financial topics. Our podcast helps you make sense of your finances and gives you actionable steps to keep your financial life on track. Find complete show notes and links on our website, StrategicPoint.com. Follow us on Twitter, like StrategicPoint on Facebook, and feel free to contact us any time via email [email protected] with feedback, questions or comments, including ideas for future podcast topics!

Spousal Social Security and Second Marriages 03/10/2025

Spousal Social Security and Second Marriages In our most recent episode, the Novice and the Nerd discuss two different topics: extra Social Security benefits for state and municipal workers, and the financial issues that can arise with second marriages. Find complete show notes and links on our website, . Follow us on , like StrategicPoint on , and feel free to contact us any time via email [email protected] with feedback, questions or comments, including ideas for future podcast topics! The information contained in this podcast is not intended as investment, tax or legal advice. StrategicPoint Investment Advisors (SPIA) assumes no responsibility for any action or inaction resulting from the contents herein. Derek and Laura’s opinions and comments expressed on this site are their own and may not accurately reflect those of the firm. Third party content does not reflect the view of the firm and is not reviewed for completeness or accuracy. It is provided for ease of reference. Certain statements contained herein may be statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on SPIA’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. In addition to statements which are forward-looking by reason of context, the words “may, will, should, expects, plans, intends, anticipates, believes, estimates, predicts, potential, or continue” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. SPIA assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained herein. /episode/index/show/c54c1f08-470f-448a-b101-9cc2c2857a6b/id/35605830

Questions and Misconceptions about Social Security 02/03/2025

Questions and Misconceptions about Social Security In this episode, the Novice and the Nerd discuss two separate client questions about social security and the Nerd warns listeners to not fall prey to generic advice from social media. Find complete show notes and links on our website, . Follow us on , like StrategicPoint on , and feel free to contact us any time via email [email protected] with feedback, questions or comments, including ideas for future podcast topics! The information contained in this podcast is not intended as investment, tax or legal advice. StrategicPoint Investment Advisors (SPIA) assumes no responsibility for any action or inaction resulting from the contents herein. Derek and Laura’s opinions and comments expressed on this site are their own and may not accurately reflect those of the firm. Third party content does not reflect the view of the firm and is not reviewed for completeness or accuracy. It is provided for ease of reference. Certain statements contained herein may be statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on SPIA’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. In addition to statements which are forward-looking by reason of context, the words “may, will, should, expects, plans, intends, anticipates, believes, estimates, predicts, potential, or continue” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. SPIA assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained herein. /episode/index/show/c54c1f08-470f-448a-b101-9cc2c2857a6b/id/35133345

Is It Time to Make a Budget? 11/04/2024

Is It Time to Make a Budget? In our most recent podcast, the Novice and the Nerd discuss the importance of creating and sticking to a budget, and how taking a closer look at your finances could help find opportunities to take advantage of savings. Find complete show notes and links on our website, . Follow us on , like StrategicPoint on , and feel free to contact us any time via email [email protected] with feedback, questions or comments, including ideas for future podcast topics! The information contained in this podcast is not intended as investment, tax or legal advice. StrategicPoint Investment Advisors (SPIA) assumes no responsibility for any action or inaction resulting from the contents herein. Derek and Laura’s opinions and comments expressed on this site are their own and may not accurately reflect those of the firm. Third party content does not reflect the view of the firm and is not reviewed for completeness or accuracy. It is provided for ease of reference. Certain statements contained herein may be statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on SPIA’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. In addition to statements which are forward-looking by reason of context, the words “may, will, should, expects, plans, intends, anticipates, believes, estimates, predicts, potential, or continue” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. SPIA assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained herein. /episode/index/show/c54c1f08-470f-448a-b101-9cc2c2857a6b/id/33775072

Billionaires Selling Stock 10/18/2024

Billionaires Selling Stock Should you be concerned when you see that billionaires are selling stocks in large quantities? In our latest podcast episode, our Nerd answers a client’s question about the headlines and puts the activity in perspective. Find complete show notes and links on our website, . Follow us on , like StrategicPoint on , and feel free to contact us any time via email [email protected] with feedback, questions or comments, including ideas for future podcast topics! The information contained in this podcast is not intended as investment, tax or legal advice. StrategicPoint Investment Advisors (SPIA) assumes no responsibility for any action or inaction resulting from the contents herein. Derek and Laura’s opinions and comments expressed on this site are their own and may not accurately reflect those of the firm. Third party content does not reflect the view of the firm and is not reviewed for completeness or accuracy. It is provided for ease of reference. Certain statements contained herein may be statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on SPIA’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. In addition to statements which are forward-looking by reason of context, the words “may, will, should, expects, plans, intends, anticipates, believes, estimates, predicts, potential, or continue” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. SPIA assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained herein. /episode/index/show/c54c1f08-470f-448a-b101-9cc2c2857a6b/id/33515062

The Fed Has Started to Cut Rates…Now What? 09/24/2024

The Fed Has Started to Cut Rates…Now What? Now that the Fed has started to cut interest rates, our Nerd discusses how this can impact the economy, CDs Mortgages, savings accounts and more. Find complete show notes and links on our website, . Follow us on , like StrategicPoint on , and feel free to contact us any time via email [email protected] with feedback, questions or comments, including ideas for future podcast topics! The information contained in this podcast is not intended as investment, tax or legal advice. StrategicPoint Investment Advisors (SPIA) assumes no responsibility for any action or inaction resulting from the contents herein. Derek and Laura’s opinions and comments expressed on this site are their own and may not accurately reflect those of the firm. Third party content does not reflect the view of the firm and is not reviewed for completeness or accuracy. It is provided for ease of reference. Certain statements contained herein may be statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on SPIA’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. In addition to statements which are forward-looking by reason of context, the words “may, will, should, expects, plans, intends, anticipates, believes, estimates, predicts, potential, or continue” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. SPIA assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained herein. /episode/index/show/c54c1f08-470f-448a-b101-9cc2c2857a6b/id/33188097

The Novice and The Nerd RETURN! 09/09/2024

The Novice and The Nerd RETURN! The Novice and The Nerd RETURN, with a timely discussion about some changes coming in 2025 that may impact Required Minimum Distributions, ROTH IRAs, company 401k matches and much more. Find complete show notes and links on our website, StrategicPoint.com. Follow us on Twitter, like StrategicPoint on Facebook, and feel free to contact us any time via email [email protected] with feedback, questions or comments, including ideas for future podcast topics! The information contained in this podcast is not intended as investment, tax or legal advice. StrategicPoint Investment Advisors (SPIA) assumes no responsibility for any action or inaction resulting from the contents herein. Derek and Laura’s opinions and comments expressed on this site are their own and may not accurately reflect those of the firm. Third party content does not reflect the view of the firm and is not reviewed for completeness or accuracy. It is provided for ease of reference. Certain statements contained herein may be statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on SPIA’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. In addition to statements which are forward-looking by reason of context, the words “may, will, should, expects, plans, intends, anticipates, believes, estimates, predicts, potential, or continue” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. SPIA assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained herein. /episode/index/show/c54c1f08-470f-448a-b101-9cc2c2857a6b/id/32971622

Inverted Yield Curve 12/04/2023

Inverted Yield Curve What is an inverted yield curve? How is it helping all of us make more money in our savings accounts? Will current money market rates last? Listen to our latest episode where the Novice and the Nerd break down a listener’s question about the inverted yield curve, the Fed and potential outlooks for savings rates in 2024. Find complete show notes and links on our website, StrategicPoint.com. Follow us on Twitter, like StrategicPoint on Facebook, and feel free to contact us any time via email [email protected] with feedback, questions or comments, including ideas for future podcast topics! The information contained in this podcast is not intended as investment, tax or legal advice. StrategicPoint Investment Advisors (SPIA) assumes no responsibility for any action or inaction resulting from the contents herein. Derek and Laura’s opinions and comments expressed on this site are their own and may not accurately reflect those of the firm. Third party content does not reflect the view of the firm and is not reviewed for completeness or accuracy. It is provided for ease of reference. Certain statements contained herein may be statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on SPIA’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. In addition to statements which are forward-looking by reason of context, the words “may, will, should, expects, plans, intends, anticipates, believes, estimates, predicts, potential, or continue” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. SPIA assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained herein. /episode/index/show/c54c1f08-470f-448a-b101-9cc2c2857a6b/id/28921238

Time to review your 529? 09/25/2023

Time to review your 529? Using a 529 to save for college? Is your child in high school? It might be time to revisit your 529! Listen to Derek and Laura talk about the importance of reviewing how the 529 is allocated and if you should still save in a 529. Find complete show notes and links on our website, . Follow us on , like StrategicPoint on , and feel free to contact us any time via email with feedback, questions or comments, including ideas for future podcast topics! The information contained in this podcast is not intended as investment, tax or legal advice. StrategicPoint Investment Advisors (SPIA) assumes no responsibility for any action or inaction resulting from the contents herein. Derek and Laura’s opinions and comments expressed on this site are their own and may not accurately reflect those of the firm. Third party content does not reflect the view of the firm and is not reviewed for completeness or accuracy. It is provided for ease of reference. Certain statements contained herein may be statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on SPIA’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. In addition to statements which are forward-looking by reason of context, the words “may, will, should, expects, plans, intends, anticipates, believes, estimates, predicts, potential, or continue” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. SPIA assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained herein. /episode/index/show/c54c1f08-470f-448a-b101-9cc2c2857a6b/id/28133066

Top Things We Wish RI Teachers Knew About Their Retirement 08/28/2023

Top Things We Wish RI Teachers Knew About Their Retirement Rhode Island Teachers have unique options when it comes to saving for retirement. In our latest episode, we discuss these options and Derek gives some advice on how best to navigate the opportunities to save. Find complete show notes and links on our website, . Follow us on , like StrategicPoint on , and feel free to contact us any time via email with feedback, questions or comments, including ideas for future podcast topics! The information contained in this podcast is not intended as investment, tax or legal advice. StrategicPoint Investment Advisors (SPIA) assumes no responsibility for any action or inaction resulting from the contents herein. Derek and Laura’s opinions and comments expressed on this site are their own and may not accurately reflect those of the firm. Third party content does not reflect the view of the firm and is not reviewed for completeness or accuracy. It is provided for ease of reference. Certain statements contained herein may be statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on SPIA’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. In addition to statements which are forward-looking by reason of context, the words “may, will, should, expects, plans, intends, anticipates, believes, estimates, predicts, potential, or continue” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. SPIA assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained herein. /episode/index/show/c54c1f08-470f-448a-b101-9cc2c2857a6b/id/27868581

Should You Have a ROTH IRA? 08/07/2023

Should You Have a ROTH IRA? Hey Gen-X, should you have a ROTH IRA? Think you may not be eligible to use one so never bothered? In our latest episode, Derek discusses why some may be getting one soon and why a ROTH can be helpful as you plan for your retirement. Find complete show notes and links on our website, . Follow us on , like StrategicPoint on , and feel free to contact us any time via email with feedback, questions or comments, including ideas for future podcast topics! The information contained in this podcast is not intended as investment, tax or legal advice. StrategicPoint Investment Advisors (SPIA) assumes no responsibility for any action or inaction resulting from the contents herein. Derek and Laura’s opinions and comments expressed on this site are their own and may not accurately reflect those of the firm. Third party content does not reflect the view of the firm and is not reviewed for completeness or accuracy. It is provided for ease of reference. Certain statements contained herein may be statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on SPIA’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. In addition to statements which are forward-looking by reason of context, the words “may, will, should, expects, plans, intends, anticipates, believes, estimates, predicts, potential, or continue” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. SPIA assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained herein. /episode/index/show/c54c1f08-470f-448a-b101-9cc2c2857a6b/id/27682425

The Fed’s 2% Inflation Target 07/25/2023

The Fed’s 2% Inflation Target Have you ever wondered why the Federal Reserve aims to hit a 2% inflation rate? In this episode of The Novice and The Nerd, Derek explains why that number is typically the goal and how not hitting that target could affect the markets. Find complete show notes and links on our website, . Follow us on , like StrategicPoint on , and feel free to contact us any time via email with feedback, questions or comments, including ideas for future podcast topics! The information contained in this podcast is not intended as investment, tax or legal advice. StrategicPoint Investment Advisors (SPIA) assumes no responsibility for any action or inaction resulting from the contents herein. Derek and Laura’s opinions and comments expressed on this site are their own and may not accurately reflect those of the firm. Third party content does not reflect the view of the firm and is not reviewed for completeness or accuracy. It is provided for ease of reference. Certain statements contained herein may be statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on SPIA’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. In addition to statements which are forward-looking by reason of context, the words “may, will, should, expects, plans, intends, anticipates, believes, estimates, predicts, potential, or continue” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. SPIA assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained herein. /episode/index/show/c54c1f08-470f-448a-b101-9cc2c2857a6b/id/27565443

Commercial Real Estate 06/06/2023

Commercial Real Estate On this episode, Derek examines the current state of the commercial real estate market and how fears of changing work habits are large office buildings across the US. Find complete show notes and links on our website, . Follow us on , like StrategicPoint on , and feel free to contact us any time via email with feedback, questions or comments, including ideas for future podcast topics! The information contained in this podcast is not intended as investment, tax or legal advice. StrategicPoint Investment Advisors (SPIA) assumes no responsibility for any action or inaction resulting from the contents herein. Derek and Laura’s opinions and comments expressed on this site are their own and may not accurately reflect those of the firm. Third party content does not reflect the view of the firm and is not reviewed for completeness or accuracy. It is provided for ease of reference. Certain statements contained herein may be statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on SPIA’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. In addition to statements which are forward-looking by reason of context, the words “may, will, should, expects, plans, intends, anticipates, believes, estimates, predicts, potential, or continue” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. SPIA assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained herein. /episode/index/show/c54c1f08-470f-448a-b101-9cc2c2857a6b/id/27060240

Used Cars and Maturing Leases 05/30/2023

Used Cars and Maturing Leases On this episode, we discuss the Novice’s realization that her new, “used” car payment may be just a little more expensive than she was planning for. Separately, Derek discusses how maturing 2020 leases may put owners in an advantageous position at the time the contracts mature. Find complete show notes and links on our website, . Follow us on , like StrategicPoint on , and feel free to contact us any time via email with feedback, questions or comments, including ideas for future podcast topics! The information contained in this podcast is not intended as investment, tax or legal advice. StrategicPoint Investment Advisors (SPIA) assumes no responsibility for any action or inaction resulting from the contents herein. Derek and Laura’s opinions and comments expressed on this site are their own and may not accurately reflect those of the firm. Third party content does not reflect the view of the firm and is not reviewed for completeness or accuracy. It is provided for ease of reference. Certain statements contained herein may be statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on SPIA’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. In addition to statements which are forward-looking by reason of context, the words “may, will, should, expects, plans, intends, anticipates, believes, estimates, predicts, potential, or continue” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. SPIA assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained herein. /episode/index/show/c54c1f08-470f-448a-b101-9cc2c2857a6b/id/26989209

Current State of the US Housing Market 05/12/2023

Current State of the US Housing Market On this episode of the Novice and the Nerd, Derek and Laura discuss the current state of the housing market and the dramatic differences Derek sees between now and 2008. Find complete show notes and links on our website, . Follow us on , like StrategicPoint on , and feel free to contact us any time via email with feedback, questions or comments, including ideas for future podcast topics! The information contained in this podcast is not intended as investment, tax or legal advice. StrategicPoint Investment Advisors (SPIA) assumes no responsibility for any action or inaction resulting from the contents herein. Derek and Laura’s opinions and comments expressed on this site are their own and may not accurately reflect those of the firm. Third party content does not reflect the view of the firm and is not reviewed for completeness or accuracy. It is provided for ease of reference. Certain statements contained herein may be statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on SPIA’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. In addition to statements which are forward-looking by reason of context, the words “may, will, should, expects, plans, intends, anticipates, believes, estimates, predicts, potential, or continue” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. SPIA assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained herein. /episode/index/show/c54c1f08-470f-448a-b101-9cc2c2857a6b/id/26821779