The Real Money Pros
Money: you make it, you want more of it, and you want to protect it. We are The Real Money Pros, a show hosted collaboratively by experts who specialize in investing, financial and estate planning, taxes, insurance, and any other way to grow wealth. Plus, we make it fun! We help you know good advice from bad – especially when everyone seems to want a piece of your money.
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Must Do's Before Dec. 31st: Taxes, Markets, & Planning Deep Dive (11/22/2025)
11/24/2025
Must Do's Before Dec. 31st: Taxes, Markets, & Planning Deep Dive (11/22/2025)
This last weekend, Jeremiah and Nic walk through everything investors should be thinking about heading into year-end. They open with the uptick in market volatility and why short-term swings (especially after years of strong returns) should be expected rather than feared. From S&P 500 movement to speculation-driven selloffs and margin trading, the guys explain what’s actually happening under the hood. They then shift into the biggest year-end priorities: maxing out 401(k) contributions, coordinating Roth strategies, and using HSAs the right way—including the little-known double catch-up rule for couples over 55. The advisors outline practical moves for self-employed listeners too, especially when SEP IRAs unintentionally reduce their Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction. Listener calls round out the show with questions on spending down windfalls, tax-efficient Roth funding, managing debt, and how to plan confidently when you feel “behind.” In hour two, the conversation turns to 1031 exchanges and Delaware Statutory Trusts—how they work, who they’re right for, and the real trade-offs behind tax deferral. They finish with retirement psychology, planning clarity, and why understanding your strategy matters more than timing the market. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Hosts: Jeremiah Bates & Nic Daniels ————————————————————— Ataraxis PEO Tree City Advisors of Apollon: Apollon Wealth Management: —————————————————————
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Why the Market Feels Crazy: Insights from Profitscore
11/18/2025
Why the Market Feels Crazy: Insights from Profitscore
This week’s Money Hour dives into one of the most volatile stretches the market has seen in months — and why investors are reacting the way they are. Brian welcomes Richard Davila of Profitscore Capital Management to break down the real drivers behind the market sell-off: stalled Fed rate cuts, a crypto crash shaking retail investors, shaky labor data, and sky-high expectations for Nvidia’s upcoming earnings. From there, the conversation shifts to what volatility actually signals, how ProfitScore uses “volatility regimes,” and why the current neutral regime makes investing especially confusing for DIY investors. Brian and Rich also dig into the emotional side of investing — why behavior, sentiment, and over-concentration are hurting more portfolios than bad stock picks. They walk listeners through long-term strategy, diversification, and how to avoid chasing AI or crypto without a plan. The second half of the show widens the lens: the economic pressure on Idaho families, cost-of-living concerns, wage stagnation, health-care subsidy worries, and why newcomers with cash are reshaping Idaho’s housing reality. Plus, they unpack the boom in AI, robotics, nuclear innovation, and quantum computing — including why the next decade will determine who leads the global economy and what investors can realistically expect. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley Guest: Richard Davila, CTA | Profitscore Capital Management
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Roth Conversions, ACA Subsidy Changes, & Smart Real Estate Decisions (11/15/2025)
11/17/2025
Roth Conversions, ACA Subsidy Changes, & Smart Real Estate Decisions (11/15/2025)
This episode tackles some of the biggest financial decisions listeners are facing right now. Brian starts with a breakdown of upcoming ACA subsidy changes—why many families may see higher health insurance premiums next year and what planning steps to consider before open enrollment closes. We also cover challenges around financing a CBD/hemp-related business, why traditional banks often won’t lend, and what alternative paths may still be available. From there, we dive into real listener questions. One caller wants to know whether a Roth conversion makes sense alongside pension income and future retirement withdrawals. Brian walks through how conversions really work, the tax traps people overlook, and how withholding decisions impact your final bill. Plus, a question about pulling equity from a four-plex to refinance or reinvest. Brian explains the pros and cons of HELOCs, traditional refinances, and VA loan options in the current interest-rate environment. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Hosts: Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates ————————————————————— SPONSORS: Ataraxis PEO Tree City Advisors of Apollon: Apollon Wealth Management: —————————————————————
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50-Year Mortgages: Debt Until Death
11/11/2025
50-Year Mortgages: Debt Until Death
You've heard the controversial new idea making headlines — the 50-year mortgage. What started as a proposal from national homebuilders sparks a bigger conversation: Are we solving housing affordability, or just stretching debt for another generation? Brian breaks down how amortization works, why stretching payments can look appealing but cost hundreds of thousands more in interest, and how it impacts the broader economy. He also shares personal stories about real estate mistakes, mortgage decisions, and how inflation and rising rates are reshaping homeownership for Millennials and Gen Z. Listeners call in with their own real-life experiences — from first-time homebuyers juggling tight budgets to the emotional payoff of finally owning a place you can call your own. Along the way, Brian explains the math behind mortgage length, how income growth changes affordability over time, and why some debts may not be as “bad” as you think. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley
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Social Security Secrets, Home Sale Tax Breaks, & Hidden Money You Forgot About (11/8/2025)
11/10/2025
Social Security Secrets, Home Sale Tax Breaks, & Hidden Money You Forgot About (11/8/2025)
This week, Jeremiah and Alex tackle the questions that real retirees are actually asking. From how to file for Social Security the smart way to how to unlock forgotten retirement money hiding in old accounts. They dig into Social Security myths and strategies, including how to decide when to file, the difference between spousal and survivor benefits, how income limits affect your payments, and what happens when SSDI converts to regular benefits. Callers share real-world dilemmas: a 64-year-old in cybersecurity weighing when to claim; a woman in California discovering a secret credit card in a community property state; and a couple debating whether to sell or rent a second home and how to avoid capital gains taxes using the Section 121 exclusion. The unstoppable duo wrap with tips on finding unclaimed 401(k)s, old accounts, and missing funds, plus why year-end is the perfect time to revisit tax strategies and portfolio moves. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Hosts: Jeremiah Bates & Alex Lundgren ————————————————————— SPONSORS: Ataraxis PEO Tree City Advisors of Apollon: Apollon Wealth Management: —————————————————————
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Roth Conversions: You May WANT To Pay Taxes
11/06/2025
Roth Conversions: You May WANT To Pay Taxes
Pay taxes now or later? It’s one of the biggest decisions in retirement planning and the Roth conversion strategy sits at the center of it. We break down how Roth conversions work, why timing is critical, and how they can transform your retirement strategy. They explain how to move pre-tax dollars into a Roth account, what the short-term tax hit really means, and how to avoid common pitfalls such as triggering Medicare surcharges or penalties under the five-year rule. We also touch on how to use Roth conversions strategically for long-term tax savings, including how they help protect surviving spouses from higher tax brackets and reduce required minimum distributions later in life. Understand how Roth conversions can turn your biggest liability—taxes—into your greatest long-term advantage! Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Hosts: Jeremiah Bates & Nic Daniels
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Government Shutdowns, Paycheck Panic, & the Power of Planning (11/1/2025)
11/03/2025
Government Shutdowns, Paycheck Panic, & the Power of Planning (11/1/2025)
Brian Wiley takes on one of the most frustrating issues facing Americans today — the ongoing government shutdown — and what it reveals about our collective financial vulnerability. With nearly two-thirds of Americans living paycheck to paycheck, Brian explores how even a short-term disruption in income can send households into crisis mode. Through candid listener calls, including a 29-year-old air traffic controller working without pay and a retired veteran frustrated with misuse of social benefits, the show dives into the human side of financial resilience. Brian connects it all back to planning, explaining the BetterBuckets™ strategy for building liquidity, stability, and long-term growth. He also explains why having at least three years of cash reserves can turn chaos into confidence! Plus, Brian discussed more on the rise of AI and job security risks, offering practical steps to stay financially adaptable no matter what comes next. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley ————————————————————— SPONSORS: Ataraxis PEO Tree City Advisors of Apollon: Apollon Wealth Management: —————————————————————
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Alternative Investments: What They Are, Who Qualifies, & When They Matter
10/30/2025
Alternative Investments: What They Are, Who Qualifies, & When They Matter
Alternative investments have become a buzzword—but are they really the secret weapon of the ultra-wealthy, or just another tool in a diversified portfolio? In this podcast, Jeremiah and Nic unpack what “alternatives” actually mean—from private equity and private credit to other non-public market opportunities. They explain who qualifies as an accredited investor under Regulation D, what the income and net worth thresholds are, and why not everyone needs to chase these investments right away. They break down the trade-offs: potential for higher returns and less daily market volatility—but also illiquidity, limited transparency, and the need for careful due diligence. Learn how alternative investments work, who they’re for, and how they can (or can’t) fit into your financial plan! Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Hosts: Jeremiah Bates & Nic Daniels
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Open Enrollment Shock: How 2026 Could Upend Health Insurance Costs
10/28/2025
Open Enrollment Shock: How 2026 Could Upend Health Insurance Costs
Jeremiah Bates and Alex Lundgren team up with Steve Marsh from Medical Plans of Idaho to unpack a huge issue looming over millions of Americans — the potential expiration of enhanced premium tax credits under the American Rescue Act. With these provisions set to sunset after 2025, many could see premiums spike by 75–80% going into 2026! They explain what the “400% federal poverty level” threshold means for your wallet, who’s most at risk, and what you can do now to prepare. The discussion dives into both individual health plans and Medicare, including the major changes to Advantage plans in Idaho — from disappearing zero-premium options to how retirees can use this year’s guaranteed issue window to upgrade coverage. The hosts also share proactive tax and income planning strategies — from HSA contributions and 401(k) deductions to managing self-employment income — that could make or break your eligibility for crucial tax credits. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Hosts: Jeremiah Bates & Alexandra Lundgren
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Speculation, Strategy, and Self-Control: Today’s "Bubble" Market & Investor Behavior (10/25/2025)
10/27/2025
Speculation, Strategy, and Self-Control: Today’s "Bubble" Market & Investor Behavior (10/25/2025)
Brian and Jeremiah pull back the curtain on what’s really driving the markets—and investors themselves. From the emotional highs of stock speculation to the discipline required for sound planning, they explore why behavior often matters more than economic headlines. The guys unpack how market optimism and consumer frustration can coexist, what it means when valuations outpace fundamentals, and why following “the herd” can lead to regret. They also dive into practical, real-world planning topics: a listener’s question about COBRA vs. ACA health insurance, LLC deductions, and tax-smart strategies for the self-employed. Finally, they tackle risk from a new angle—how to see it not as something to fear, but as something to understand and manage. It’s a blend of market analysis, financial insight, and straight talk about the psychology behind money decisions. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Hosts: Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates ————————————————————— SPONSORS: Ataraxis PEO Tree City Advisors of Apollon: Apollon Wealth Management: —————————————————————
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Dr. David Kelly of JP Morgan | Full Interview
10/23/2025
Dr. David Kelly of JP Morgan | Full Interview
The economy might feel uncertain, but according to JPMorgan’s Chief Global Strategist Dr. David Kelly, there’s more stability and opportunity than the headlines suggest. In this exclusive, uncut interview with The Real Money Pros, Dr. David Kelly joins Brian Wiley and Jeremiah Bates to unpack the big picture: from AI’s real economic impact to the sustainability of market highs, Federal Reserve independence, and what investors should be watching next. He discusses the growing gap between perception and reality, the rise of bubbles in U.S. equities, and why international diversification might be the smartest move going forward. The conversation spans the future of technology, cryptocurrency skepticism, gold’s misunderstood value, and how robotics and biotech could transform productivity. But it’s not all numbers—Dr. Kelly also tackles how media polarization and political volatility shape investor psychology more than data ever could. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Guest: Dr. David Kelly Chief Global Strategist, J.P. Morgan Asset Management Hosts: Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates Hosts, Wealth Management Advisors
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Beef, Budgets, & Behavioral Finance: What Argentina and Furloughs Teach Us About Money
10/21/2025
Beef, Budgets, & Behavioral Finance: What Argentina and Furloughs Teach Us About Money
Brian dives into an unexpected connection between global trade, the cattle industry, and personal finance. With news of the U.S. considering deals to import Argentinian beef, Brian explores how capitalism, protectionism, and politics shape the prices we pay at the grocery store, and ultimately what that means for American ranchers and consumers alike. Also, how economic shifts ripple through your household budget, why government shutdowns and furloughs are wake-up calls for financial preparedness, and how to build resilience through smart, behavior-based money decisions. Drawing from 25 years of experience helping clients weather every market cycle, he shares timeless lessons on staying disciplined through uncertainty, keeping emotion out of investing, and protecting your financial “herd” when times get lean. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley
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Dr. David Kelly of JP Morgan: Markets, AI, and the Future of Opportunity (10/18/2025)
10/20/2025
Dr. David Kelly of JP Morgan: Markets, AI, and the Future of Opportunity (10/18/2025)
In this very special episode, we have a powerful conversation with Dr. David Kelly, Chief Global Strategist at JP Morgan Asset Management, to unpack some of the biggest forces shaping today’s markets. From artificial intelligence and robotics to interest rates, government debt, and investor behavior, Dr. Kelly explains where he sees opportunity—and where caution is warranted! The discussion covers how rapid technological advances could drive productivity growth and transform the workforce, why Federal Reserve independence remains crucial, and how rising U.S. debt and political volatility affect investor confidence. All of them take on portfolio diversification, international markets, and how long-term strategy can keep investors steady through cycles of fear and excitement. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates Guest: Dr. David Kelly, Chief Global Strategist J.P. Morgan Asset Management ————————————————————— SPONSORS: Ataraxis PEO Tree City Advisors of Apollon: Apollon Wealth Management: —————————————————————
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When the Music Stops: Why Investors Need a Reality Check
10/14/2025
When the Music Stops: Why Investors Need a Reality Check
This week on The Money Hour, Brian Wiley uses a clever metaphor — musical chairs — to describe today’s high-anxiety markets. With stocks soaring and Micron hitting near-record highs, investors are sliding around nervously, waiting for the music to stop. Brian digs into how emotions like greed and fear can dictate our financial behavior, from cashing out 401(k)s for new toys to missing chances for growth out of hesitation. He also tackles bigger themes: tariffs, nationalism, and how politics, trade wars, and human behavior all intertwine in this volatile financial climate. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley
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The Cost of Fear: Why Investors Keep Missing Market Opportunities (10/11/2025)
10/13/2025
The Cost of Fear: Why Investors Keep Missing Market Opportunities (10/11/2025)
This week, Brian and Jeremiah unpack one of the biggest forces shaping today’s markets—fear. They talk about how investor emotions can cloud judgment, why so many people are sitting in cash despite record market highs, and what “waiting for the right time” actually costs over years or even decades. They also dig into the Fed’s latest comments, interest rate expectations, and how inflation psychology keeps consumers—and investors—on edge. Plus, listener stories about retirement regret and post-pandemic investing lessons prove one thing: discipline beats drama every time. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates ————————————————————— SPONSORS: Ataraxis PEO Tree City Advisors of Apollon: Apollon Wealth Management: —————————————————————
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Beef Prices, Grocery Inflation, & How Your Choices Shape the Market
10/07/2025
Beef Prices, Grocery Inflation, & How Your Choices Shape the Market
This week, Brian Wiley breaks down the skyrocketing cost of beef and grocery inflation—and what it means for your wallet. From $6+ per pound for ground beef to $9 steaks, Brian talks practical tips for saving money, like grinding your own meat or shopping store specials. He also dives into the bigger picture: how supply shortages, post-COVID herd recovery, and trade impact prices, and how your spending choices actually shape the market. Plus, listeners share their strategies for coping with rising costs. If you’ve been feeling the pinch at the grocery store, this episode is packed with real-world advice, economic insights, and a reminder that your wallet is your vote. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley
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Building Wealth Without the Gaps: 401ks, Real Estate, & Risk (9/27/2025)
09/29/2025
Building Wealth Without the Gaps: 401ks, Real Estate, & Risk (9/27/2025)
On this episode, we draw surprising parallels between woodworking mishaps and managing your 401(k)—showing how even tiny mistakes can turn into big problems over time. We dive into the hidden impact of investment fees, the importance of planning for risk versus reward, and how small tweaks in fund selection can make a massive difference for your retirement. The conversation goes into the evolving value of homeownership in today’s economy, exploring whether renting might make more sense for some families. A live caller joins to ask about leveraging equity in a fourplex, sparking a deep discussion about refinancing, HELOCs, self-directed IRAs, and building long-term rental income. In the second hour, we also tackle financial fraud and scams targeting everyday investors (and seniors) and share cautionary tales about self-directed IRAs, gold schemes, and annuity traps. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates ————————————————————— SPONSORS: Ataraxis PEO Tree City Advisors of Apollon: Apollon Wealth Management: —————————————————————
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Politicians Can’t Fix Your Finances (9/20/2025)
09/22/2025
Politicians Can’t Fix Your Finances (9/20/2025)
Over the weekend, Jeremiah and Brian go into the realities of America’s rising debt and why politics alone won’t fix the problem. The hosts challenge common assumptions about government spending, inflation, and taxation—breaking down how these big-picture issues actually trickle down to everyday households. Instead of waiting on Washington, they focus on what individuals can do now: understanding the real impact of debt, how taxes may shift depending on policy changes, and why relying solely on campaign promises is a dangerous financial strategy. Plus, Their conversation also explores investing in uncertain times, from opportunities in technology and AI to evaluating where future growth could come if the U.S. reduces its reliance on foreign goods. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates ————————————————————— SPONSORS: Ataraxis PEO Tree City Advisors of Apollon: Apollon Wealth Management: —————————————————————
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457 Plans: Hidden Benefits, Early Retirement Strategies, & Crucial Pitfalls
09/18/2025
457 Plans: Hidden Benefits, Early Retirement Strategies, & Crucial Pitfalls
457 plans may look like 401(k)s, but they come with powerful benefits—and costly pitfalls if misunderstood. Jeremiah Bates and Alex Lundgren explain how to maximize contributions, avoid penalties, and use 457s to unlock early retirement strategies. Plus, not all 457s are built the same... Work for a non-profit? These are the things you MUST know. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Hosts: Jeremiah Bates & Alex Lundgren
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Should You Pay Off Debt First, Invest In The Market, Or Buy Gold? (9/13/2025)
09/15/2025
Should You Pay Off Debt First, Invest In The Market, Or Buy Gold? (9/13/2025)
This week, Brian and Jeremiah tackle some of the toughest money choices listeners face. Should you use an inheritance to pay off a low-interest mortgage or invest for growth? Is gold really the “safe haven” people believe it to be or just another speculative bet? And how do you plan ahead for long-term care costs without draining your family’s savings? Real-world calls drive the conversation, with questions about paying down debt, structuring investments, and balancing family responsibilities. The guys break down the math and the mindset, showing why the “obvious” answer isn’t always the best financial move. Plus, they also zoom out to cover big-picture topics: the role of insurance in retirement, why cash alone isn’t a strategy, and how to think about risk when the markets feel uncertain. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates ————————————————————— SPONSORS: Ataraxis PEO Tree City Advisors of Apollon: Apollon Wealth Management: —————————————————————
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Inherited IRAs: A Beneficiary’s Need-to-Knows
09/11/2025
Inherited IRAs: A Beneficiary’s Need-to-Knows
The largest wealth transfer in history is happening right now, as baby boomers pass on trillions of dollars in retirement assets. But if you inherit an IRA, the rules aren’t as simple as many think, with recent legislation making them even more complex. The team explains the new landscape of inherited IRAs under the Secure Act 1.0 and 2.0. They cover the differences between spouse and non-spouse inheritance, how the 10-year withdrawal rule works, and the major tax consequences you need to prepare for. From required minimum distributions (RMDs) to special exceptions for minors, disabled individuals, and trusts, we show what beneficiaries must know to avoid costly mistakes. Plus, Jeremiah and Nic share planning strategies to reduce the tax hit, like coordinating withdrawals with your income or leveraging Roth accounts for long-term growth. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Hosts: Jeremiah Bates & Nic Daniels
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How Tariffs, Shopping, and Investing Are Changing Fast
09/09/2025
How Tariffs, Shopping, and Investing Are Changing Fast
This week on Newstalk KBOI, Brian takes a step back to look at how the way we shop, spend, and invest has completely transformed—from Sears catalogs to Amazon’s overnight delivery. But convenience comes with new challenges: tariffs on small packages, global supply chain shifts, and questions about whether “buying American” is realistic in today’s economy. Brian also digs into the big-picture investing takeaways. What industries will benefit from reshoring manufacturing? Will AI make some jobs (and workers) obsolete—and what does that mean for investors? And when it comes to gold, is it really a currency, a collectible, or just a heavily-taxed gamble? Plus, Brian wraps it all up with our team's approach to the “bucket strategy,” showing how a disciplined approach could even rescue Social Security—and why the hardest part is simply getting started. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley
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Chasing Gold, Chasing Wealth: What History Teaches Us About Risk (9/6/2025)
09/08/2025
Chasing Gold, Chasing Wealth: What History Teaches Us About Risk (9/6/2025)
This week, Brian and Jeremiah draw a line straight from the California Gold Rush to today’s Wall Street. Why? Because the way people chase wealth really hasn’t changed. From miners risking it all for a nugget of gold to investors jumping on the latest market trend, the patterns of greed, fear, and opportunity repeat over and over. The guys break down what history can teach us about investing today: why discipline outlasts hype, how to balance risk and reward, and how to avoid letting emotion wreck your financial plan. They also touch on the bigger picture—like what “wealth” really means and why legacy and values matter just as much as returns. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates ————————————————————— SPONSORS: Ataraxis PEO Tree City Advisors of Apollon: Apollon Wealth Management: —————————————————————
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SEP IRAs Explained: A Smart Retirement Tool for the Self-Employed
09/04/2025
SEP IRAs Explained: A Smart Retirement Tool for the Self-Employed
If you’re self-employed or running a small business, saving for retirement doesn’t have to be complicated. One of the most powerful but often overlooked tools available is the SEP IRA—a plan designed to help business owners put away significantly more than a traditional IRA, while also providing tax benefits. Jeremiah and Nic walk through the ins and outs of SEP IRAs. You’ll learn how they work, who qualifies, and why flexibility makes them a great option for many entrepreneurs. From contribution rules (up to 25% of wages, capped at $69,000) to employee eligibility requirements, they break down what business owners need to know—whether you’re trying to reduce taxable income, reward loyal employees, or simply build your own retirement nest egg. You’ll also hear why SEP IRAs can be easier to manage than a 401(k) and how employees benefit from immediate vesting and full control over their investments. Is a SEP right for you? Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Hosts: Jeremiah Bates & Nic Daniels
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Don’t Get Left Behind: Preparing For The AI Investment Boom (8/30/2025)
09/01/2025
Don’t Get Left Behind: Preparing For The AI Investment Boom (8/30/2025)
Artificial intelligence is moving faster than most people realize, and it’s about to change everything from jobs to investing. Over Labor Day weekend, Brian Wiley and Jeremiah Bates open up the topic of the AI revolution and ask the big question: is this the next great wealth-building opportunity, or another dot-com style bubble? From massive data centers and trillion-dollar tech investments to the risk of widespread job disruption, the hosts break down what AI means for markets, the economy, and everyday investors. They highlight how companies like Nvidia, Microsoft, and Meta are positioning themselves, and how government policies could shape the outcome. Most importantly, they explain how the bucket strategy can help you stay protected if the hype collapses, while still giving you a chance to benefit if AI drives the next major boom. Do you want to be left behind? Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates ————————————————————— SPONSORS: Ataraxis PEO Tree City Advisors of Apollon: Apollon Wealth Management: —————————————————————
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Structured Notes: A Better Annuity Alternative?
08/28/2025
Structured Notes: A Better Annuity Alternative?
Annuities are one of the most heavily marketed financial products—and often one of the most misunderstood. They promise growth without loss, guaranteed income, and peace of mind. But behind the sales pitch lies high commissions, long surrender periods, and frustrating caps on growth. In this podcast, Jeremiah and Nic pull back the curtain on annuities and introduce a compelling alternative: structured notes. These innovative investments offer downside protection, defined outcomes, and the potential for enhanced upside—all without the commission-heavy baggage that comes with most annuities. You’ll learn: The hidden costs and pitfalls of annuities. How structured notes provide flexibility and clarity. What “soft protection” really means for your portfolio. Why defined outcome investing may align better with your long-term goals. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Hosts: Jeremiah Bates & Nic Daniels
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Should the U.S. Bail Out Intel? The High Stakes of America’s Chip Future
08/26/2025
Should the U.S. Bail Out Intel? The High Stakes of America’s Chip Future
This Money Monday, Brian goes into one of the biggest economic and controversial question today: Should the U.S. government invest billions into Intel to keep semiconductor innovation and manufacturing on American soil? Drawing parallels to the auto bailouts of 2009 and other government rescues, Brian unpacks the risks of “socializing” industries, the potential dilution of Intel shares, and the broader implications for investors, taxpayers, and global competition. From China’s aggressive tech strategies to the exploding demand for AI and quantum computing, the conversation asks whether a government stake in Intel is a smart safeguard—or a dangerous precedent. Is this a necessary move to secure America’s technological edge, or another slippery slope where taxpayers foot the bill for failing companies? Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley
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Business Owners & The Gig Economy: How Do We Save? (8/23/2025)
08/25/2025
Business Owners & The Gig Economy: How Do We Save? (8/23/2025)
This week on The Real Money Pros, Brian and Jeremiah take on some of the hottest )and trickiest) money questions hitting households today. They unpack the pros and cons of investing in gold, the reality of inflation’s impact on retirement, and why “gig work” is changing how people save for the future. Listener questions bring the conversation to life, covering everything from the risk of holding too much cash, to how small business owners can build wealth without losing tax efficiency. The guys also highlight common traps investors fall into when chasing safety, and why long-term planning still beats short-term reactions—even in unpredictable markets. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates ————————————————————— SPONSORS: Ataraxis PEO Tree City Advisors of Apollon: Apollon Wealth Management: —————————————————————
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Spousal Benefits, Tax Code Changes, & AI in the Workplace
08/19/2025
Spousal Benefits, Tax Code Changes, & AI in the Workplace
Artificial intelligence isn’t just a buzzword anymore. It’s driving market highs, reshaping industries, and sparking debate about whether it’s a bubble or a lasting revolution. In this week's Money Hour, Jeremiah and Nic talk about how AI could impact investments, jobs, and even wages. They explore where AI already outperforms humans and why emotional intelligence may be the skill that keeps you relevant in the workplace. The guys also unpack the latest updates on Social Security, clarifies common misconceptions about spousal and survivor benefits, and explains why relying on the SSA for advice could cost you. Plus, they highlight big changes coming out of the “Big Beautiful Bill,” including new opportunities with 529s, the rollout of “Trump Accounts” for kids, and tax code updates that could save retirees thousands. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Jeremiah Bates & Nic Daniels
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The Ripple Effect: Inflation, Housing, & the Future of Money (8/16/2025)
08/18/2025
The Ripple Effect: Inflation, Housing, & the Future of Money (8/16/2025)
This week, Brian and Jeremiah break down three issues that are hitting Americans the hardest right now: inflation, housing, and the future of money. They talk through why prices keep climbing, how higher rates are shaping the housing market, and what it all means for families trying to balance today’s costs with long-term planning. The conversation then shifts to stablecoins and new legislation in Congress that could bring digital dollar-backed assets into the mainstream—changing how we bank, invest, and even make everyday payments. Plus, listener questions spark discussions on retirement withdrawals, whether holding too much cash is really a smart move, and how to sidestep the emotional traps that can derail a portfolio. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! Host: Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates ————————————————————— SPONSORS: Ataraxis PEO Tree City Advisors of Apollon: Apollon Wealth Management:
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