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# The Money Guy Show: Putting the personal in personal finance. Get simple yet powerful ideas that changed our lives. Watch episodes, get free resources, and join our community today!

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## Articles
- [Top College Degrees in 2026](https://moneyguy.com/article/top-college-degrees-in-2026/): The median college graduate makes 68% more than the median high school graduate, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea for everyone to go to college. If you don’t choose the right major, you could end up with a mountain of student loan debt and no increase in earning potential.
- [How Much Do You Need To Retire With an Average Income?](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-much-do-you-need-to-retire-with-an-average-income/): It’s easy to become discouraged if you have an average or below average income. Saving for retirement is normally more difficult with a lower income; a greater portion of your income is going to necessities like shelter, transportation, and food, and less is available to be invested for retirement.
- [The Best Tools for Filing Your Taxes in 2026](https://moneyguy.com/article/the-best-tools-for-filing-your-taxes-in-2026/): Have you filed your taxes yet? You still have ample time left until the April 15th deadline, but it’s probably best not to procrastinate too long. 26% of Americans plan to wait until the last minute to file - which means filing during tax week or requesting an extension.
- [Should You Be Spending More in Retirement?](https://moneyguy.com/article/should-you-be-spending-more-in-retirement/): It’s difficult to overstate the risk of spending too much in retirement (or saving too little for retirement). Running out of money means moving in with your children, going back to work, or surviving solely on Social Security.
- [How To Use a Roth Conversion Strategy in Retirement](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-use-a-roth-conversion-strategy-in-retirement/): Do you have a substantial amount of assets in pre-tax retirement accounts like a traditional IRA or 401(k)? If so, it could make sense to convert some or all of those pre-tax assets to Roth before you are required to take retirement distributions.
- [How To Get Affordable Health Insurance in 2026](https://moneyguy.com/article/affordable-health-insurance-2026/): Health insurance premiums may make up a significant portion of your budget. How can you find more affordable health insurance? Is it ever worth going without health insurance? Here’s how to handle this ever-growing expense.
- [All About the New Trump Accounts for Kids](https://moneyguy.com/article/trump-accounts-for-kids/): In the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) passed last year, a new type of account called a 530A account or Trump account was authorized. These accounts launch officially later this year, and an account can be opened for anyone under the age of 18 with a valid Social Security number.
- [6 Financial Changes To Make in 2026](https://moneyguy.com/article/6-financial-changes-to-make-in-2026/): There is no need to wait until an arbitrary date on a calendar to make positive changes in your financial life, but if you are looking to improve your finances in 2026, there are some small (and large) changes you can make.
- [Are 50-Year Mortgages a Good Idea?](https://moneyguy.com/article/are-50-year-mortgages-a-good-idea/): The Trump administration recently proposed offering homebuyers the option to choose a 50-year term for their mortgage, which they said would be a “complete game changer” for homebuyers. Stretching out a mortgage almost twice as long, from the traditional 30-year to 50-year, would make payments lower, but would mean buyers that choose the longer term pay significantly more than if they had chosen a 30-year mortgage. Why is there now a push to offer longer-term mortgages, and if they are implemented, is it a good idea to take a longer term and lower monthly payments?
- [The IRS Just Announced 2026 Tax Changes!](https://moneyguy.com/article/the-irs-just-announced-2026-tax-changes/): Each year, the IRS adjusts retirement account contribution limits, standard deductions, marginal tax rate brackets, and more for inflation. I’m happy to announce that it is once again the most wonderful time of the year: the IRS released their annual inflation adjustments. Let’s take a look at what changed and get a head-start on setting your retirement account contributions and tax planning for next year.
- [Are Index Funds Still Better Than Active Funds in 2025?](https://moneyguy.com/article/are-index-funds-still-better-than-active-funds-in-2025/): Over longer periods of time, index funds tend to outperform actively managed funds in most categories. Recently, total assets in index funds have surpassed the amount of assets in active funds and the gap is now widening. Index funds are more popular than ever.
- [How To Build Wealth With an Average Income](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-build-wealth-with-an-average-income/): Americans aren’t feeling good about their finances. Last year, 16% of Americans said they believed their financial situation would be worse in a year. Now, 28% of the country says they will be worse off in 2026 than they are today.
- [Sports Betting: Side Hustle or Threat to Your Financial Future?](https://moneyguy.com/article/sports-betting-side-hustle-or-threat-to-your-financial-future/): In 2018 the Supreme Court struck down a law that prohibited most states from allowing sports betting. Gambling on sports is now legal in most states and has increased at an alarmingly fast pace. In 2019, the first full year after the Supreme Court paved the way for legalized sports gambling, bettors in the US wagered just over $13 billion on sports. Last year, they gambled $149 billion, and are on pace to shatter that number this year (almost $80 billion has been gambled through June, and most betting takes place during football season).
- [5 Insights from Successful Retirees](https://moneyguy.com/article/5-insights-from-successful-retirees/): What do you think of when you hear the word “retirement?” Our imaginations, and actual outcomes, vary wildly when it comes to retirement.
- [Millionaire Habits Revealed (2025 Client Survey Data)](https://moneyguy.com/article/millionaire-habits-revealed-2025-client-survey-data/): Each year we conduct an annual survey of our millionaire clients. Some of the data is not too surprising. Yes, they have much higher than average household incomes ($330,132 this year). Their average home value is just over a million dollars. But other habits of millionaires are surprising and aren’t usually thought of as millionaire habits. In this article, I want to cover some millionaire habits and traits that you can implement in your own life without an extremely high income or net worth.
- [College Enrollment Is Falling. Is Higher Education No Longer Worth It?](https://moneyguy.com/article/college-enrollment-is-falling-is-higher-education-no-longer-worth-it/): Attitudes about college have shifted dramatically over the past decade. In 2015, Gallup found that 57% of Americans had a “great deal” or “quite a lot” of confidence in higher education. When Gallup surveyed Americans last year, they found the share of Americans with a great deal of confidence in our higher education system had dropped from 57% in 2015 to 36%.
- [The Biggest Problem Facing Young Adults (and How To Avoid It)](https://moneyguy.com/article/the-biggest-problem-facing-young-adults-and-how-to-avoid-it/): As a millennial, it’s been difficult to adjust to no longer being the token young adult. It felt like for decades “millennial” was used as a generic term for “young person I don’t like.”
- [How To Build a Healthy Relationship With Money](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-build-a-healthy-relationship-with-money/): Money is a basic need, just like food, water, and shelter. Money may be an even greater need since you can normally not eat, drink, or have a safe place to sleep without it.
- [5 Best Side Jobs To Earn Extra Income in 2025](https://moneyguy.com/article/5-best-side-jobs-to-earn-extra-income-in-2025/): About 45% of people in the US have a side hustle or second job. Most Americans with a side hustle aren’t making a life-changing amount of money; only 10% make more than $1,000 per month.
- [How To Buy an Affordable and Reliable Car in 2025](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-buy-an-affordable-and-reliable-car-in-2025/): The pandemic broke the car market, causing prices of both new cars and used cars to skyrocket. Prices are still working their way back to a new normal; used car prices have declined sharply over the last few years, but are still well above pre-pandemic trends, and new car prices have stopped increasing sharply but aren’t going down. Vehicle prices have not yet been impacted by tariffs, but analysts say that if tariffs go into effect as proposed, car prices would go up by about 15%. Even US auto manufacturers would be hit hard because the proposed tariffs apply to all imported car parts. While it is common for cars to be assembled in the US, parts come from all over the world, and tariffs on car parts would impact all car manufacturers.
- [How To Buy a Home in 2025](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-buy-a-home-in-2025/): As mortgage rates have held relatively steady over the past few years, with average fixed 30-year rates between 6% and 8% since September of 2022, housing supply has steadily increased. We now have more homes for sale than at any point since the pandemic. Inventory could be at levels we consider “normal” very soon.
- [Why Credit Cards Can Be a Dangerous Weapon (or a Powerful Tool)](https://moneyguy.com/article/credit-cards-weapon-or-powerful-tool/): Some financial influencers say you should never use credit cards, while others believe credit cards can be a beneficial tool in your financial life. Are credit cards harmful or are they good? The truth is more complex than simply “credit cards are good” or “credit cards are bad.”
- [5 Potentially Catastrophic Estate Planning Mistakes](https://moneyguy.com/article/5-potentially-catastrophic-estate-planning-mistakes/): There’s not a great way to say it: estate planning requires you to think about what happens when you die. That’s not a pleasant thing to think about for most of us, which may be why 67% of Americans have no estate plan. Before we get started, I want to emphasize that there is no wrong time to think about estate planning. As you get older it becomes more imperative, but life is unpredictable and there’s no such thing as estate planning too early in life (just make sure you update it regularly, especially with major life changes and events).
- [4 Keys to Starting a Successful Business](https://moneyguy.com/article/4-keys-to-starting-a-successful-business/): The desire to become an entrepreneur is alive and well in the United States. 62% of Americans wish to be their own boss, and among younger generations, whose top aspirations now include YouTuber and TikTok creator, becoming an entrepreneur is still near the top of the list. Being your own boss is very much part of the American Dream for many people. It is typically riskier than working for someone else, but those that are successful have the potential to earn more and control, to a certain degree, when, where, and how much they work.
- [The 5 Best Tools To Cover Life’s Greatest Financial Risks](https://moneyguy.com/article/the-5-best-tools-to-cover-lifes-greatest-financial-risks/): Money is a ubiquitous stressor. 71% of Americans say that money is a significant cause of stress in their lives. Financial stress is frequently caused by a lack of money, but almost 60% of high income earners making over $175,000 annually still worry about money. There are some money-related stressful events that you can’t predict or prevent, but there are great tools available to reduce your financial stress and lessen the impact of those unexpected events.
- [What To Do When the Stock Market Is Down](https://moneyguy.com/article/what-to-do-when-the-stock-market-is-down/): The S&P 500 is down nearly 15% from its highs earlier this year, inching closer to bear market territory. While it may not be wise to make major changes to your portfolio in anticipation of a bear market, there are opportunities that present themselves when the market is down. Here’s how to take advantage of those opportunities and what not to do when the stock market is down.
- [Featured in MarketWatch: Navigating the World of Financial Advice on Social Media](https://moneyguy.com/article/featured-in-marketwatch-navigating-the-world-of-financial-advice-on-social-media/): The Money Guy Show was featured in MarketWatch, spotlighting the growing trend of financial influencers and the potential risks of sourcing money advice from social platforms. Co-hosts Brian Preston and Bo Hanson weighed in on how to spot red flags, emphasized the importance of professional credentials, and shared their insights on separating quality guidance from viral hype. With a commitment to fiduciary standards and evidence-based strategies, The Money Guy Show continues to be a trusted voice in the personal finance space.
- [How Large Should Your Emergency Fund Be?](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-large-should-your-emergency-fund-be/): Emergency funds: everyone needs one, but few Americans have one, and even less have the amount of savings they actually need. According to a recent Bankrate survey, 59% of Americans would not be able to pay for an unexpected $1,000 expense with savings.
- [How To Prepare for a Bear Market in 2025](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-prepare-for-a-bear-market-in-2025/): The Nasdaq stock market index is in correction territory, down over 10% from recent highs. The other major US indexes, the S&P 500 and Dow, are down 8% and 7% over the last month, respectively. The recent stock market selloff has prompted fears of a bear market and recession in 2025. The CNN Fear and Greed Index, designed to show what emotions are currently driving the stock market, is currently in “extreme fear” territory.
- [How To Pay Off High-Interest Credit Card Debt](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-pay-off-high-interest-credit-card-debt/): Credit card debt should be avoided at almost all costs. The average interest rate on credit cards is currently 24.20%, which means for every $1,000 you have in credit card debt you will owe, on average, $242 in interest each year the balance remains unpaid. In the Financial Order of Operations, paying off high-interest credit card debt falls in Step 3, High-Interest Debt, behind only covering your deductibles and getting your employer match.
- [The Best Tools for Filing Your Taxes in 2025](https://moneyguy.com/article/the-best-tools-for-filing-your-taxes-in-2025/): I’ve had years in college where I only had one job and only had one form to worry about at tax time. Those were the days. Now, I have an entire stack of 1099s, W-2s, and other miscellaneous correspondence I need to file my taxes. It seems like a new form comes in the mail everyday. I’m certainly not looking forward to the work of filing our taxes, but it can be made easier and less stressful. I’ve compiled the top resources for filing your taxes, starting with resources for those with simple returns and gradually building to more advanced tax situations.
- [How To Plan Great Vacations on a Budget](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-plan-great-vacations-on-a-budget/): “Vacations on a budget” doesn’t sound like an appealing term. When I think of planning a vacation on a budget, I imagine staying in a rat-infested motel near an eroding beach filled with litter. It’s probably wintertime and extremely cold, and raining everyday. Vacationing on a budget sounds like an oxymoron. Trips should be a luxurious experience, not something that you do as cheaply as possible, right? It is actually very possible to save money, even a lot of money, while having incredible experiences. My best vacations have been those done on a budget (to be fair, all of my vacations at this point in my life have been done on a budget). Here’s how to plan incredible trips without destroying your finances.
- [Here’s Why Roth Isn’t Always Better Than Pre-Tax](https://moneyguy.com/article/heres-why-roth-isnt-always-better-than-pre-tax/): We’ve been known to refer to Roth accounts as the apex predator of building wealth. They have the incredible ability to grow tax-free and qualified withdrawals are entirely tax-free in retirement. We believe that everyone, regardless of income, should use Roth accounts as a retirement planning tool. While it is difficult to overstate the benefits of Roth accounts, it isn’t always better to contribute to Roth over pre-tax.
- [How Much Do You Actually Need To Retire?](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-much-do-you-actually-need-to-retire/): Believe it or not, the concept of saving for your own retirement is a fairly recent creation. Brian, our Money Guy, predates the 401(k) plan. Previous generations either worked until they died, relied on Social Security, or were fortunate enough to have a pension that covered most or all of their retirement expenses. These days, only 15% of private company employees have access to pensions. The burden of retirement saving shifting from employer to employee has not been taken in stride. 83% of Americans believe everyone should have a pension, 79% say we have a retirement crisis, and 55% are concerned about their own retirement.
- [This Is What Tax Planning Really Means](https://moneyguy.com/article/this-is-what-tax-planning-really-means/): There is at least one political issue that the vast majority of both major political parties are in agreement on: taxes. No, we don’t agree on whether or not everyone else is paying enough taxes, but Americans all agree that they are paying enough (or too much) in taxes. Proactive tax planning doesn’t sound exciting, and I almost fell asleep just typing it, but paying less in taxes is something that we can all get excited about.
- [How To Get Your Financial Life Together in 2025](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-get-your-financial-life-together-in-2025/): The majority of Americans live paycheck to paycheck, but nobody really wants to be living paycheck to paycheck. If you are spending everything you make, or more than you make, that means you have nothing left over to invest or save for emergencies. It means you will have to use high-interest debt to cover unexpected expenses or big purchases. It means you are more stressed, which can affect not only your financial life but your emotional well-being, relationships, and more.
- [Mortgage Rates Could Be Higher for Longer. Here’s How That Could Affect You.](https://moneyguy.com/article/mortgage-rates-could-be-higher-for-longer/): After a brief reprieve from 7% mortgage rates in August and September, 30-year fixed rates have surged back above 7%. We first hit 7% rates over two years ago, in the fall of 2022, and rates have bounced between 6% and 8% since.
- [The IRS Just Announced 2025 Tax Changes!](https://moneyguy.com/article/the-irs-just-announced-2025-tax-changes/): It’s my favorite time of year: the weather is getting cooler, the leaves are changing, football is in full swing, and most importantly, the IRS just announced 2025 tax changes! Every year around this time, the IRS announces inflation-adjusted numbers for the next calendar year, including retirement account contribution limits, standard deductions, tax brackets, and more. Here are the most notable changes for 2025.
- [This Might Be the Best Retirement Account. Only 10% of Americans Have One.](https://moneyguy.com/article/best-retirement-account-hsa/): Health Savings Accounts, or HSAs, just might be one of the best retirement accounts available to Americans. These accounts were created in 2003 to help Americans save for ever-growing medical expenses, but have morphed into something few saw coming: one of the most powerful retirement accounts available. The stats show just a small percentage of the population is fully taking advantage of HSAs - more on that later - so an explainer about the benefits of HSAs, how to properly use them, and how to get access if you don’t already have an HSA is clearly needed.
- [Do I Need a Bridge Account for Early Retirement?](https://moneyguy.com/article/do-i-need-a-bridge-account-for-early-retirement/): If you plan on retiring before normal retirement age, or before you can take penalty-free distributions from your retirement accounts, you may be wondering if you need a bridge account to retire. A bridge account is exactly what the name implies - an account that bridges that gap between when you retire and when you have access to traditional retirement accounts. 
- [Brian Preston Featured on the RIA podcast with Seth Greene!](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-featured-on-the-ria-podcast-with-seth-greene/): Brian Preston was recently featured as a guest on the RIA Podcast, a show dedicated to registered investment advisory firms and the professionals who support them. Hosted by Seth, the conversation was both insightful and engaging. During the interview, Brian discussed a range of topics centered around empowering clients and enhancing financial education. Key highlights include:
- [How To Save for Retirement When You Have a Pension](https://moneyguy.com/article/save-for-retirement-pension/): A pension plan is a retirement plan that provides a certain amount of income every month in retirement. Also called defined benefit plans, if you have a pension you will receive income from the plan from the day you retire until you die (or beyond, if you choose a survivorship option). Pension plans have become much more uncommon over the last few decades and have been replaced primarily by defined contribution plans, which includes 401(k) plans. While it’s estimated that less than 13 million private sector workers have pensions, there are over 20 million government employees in the US, the vast majority of which have pension plans.
- [Brian Preston Featured by GQ!](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-featured-by-gq/): Brian Preston, host of The Money Guy Show, is making waves once again with his latest feature in GQ's "31 Ways to Get Your Life Together." Highlighted for his experience with building wealth and financial independence, Brian shares a crucial tip for anyone looking to secure their financial future: automate your savings and investments. By setting up automatic contributions, even small amounts, Brian explains how you can harness the power of compound interest to grow your wealth over time.
- [Fox 5 DC Features Brian Preston on Election Worries!](https://moneyguy.com/article/fox-5-dc-features-brian-preston-on-election-worries/): Brian Preston was recently featured on Fox 5 DC's Good Day DC for a segment about personal finance and the upcoming election. Brian reminded the audience that elections should not make any major shift in your financial plan. Brian used colors to drive the point home in reminding the audience, "Your money is not red. Your money is not blue. Your money is green."
- [How Will the Next President Affect the Stock Market?](https://moneyguy.com/article/next-president-stock-market/): As a huge politics nerd, election years have always been special for me. When I was younger, I remember staying up late on election night and printing out different maps showing who had won each state in previous elections to try to “predict” the next winner. Elections are very important and seem to get more stressful every four years. There are real consequences to elections that are felt well beyond finance, let alone the stock market. However, for this article, let’s focus on financial planning and zoom in on how the next president could affect the stock market and your personal investment strategy.
- [What Type of Health Insurance Plan Is Right for You?](https://moneyguy.com/article/health-insurance-plan-is-right-for-you/): Health insurance is a financial necessity for everyone, regardless of age or how healthy you are. About 25 million Americans don’t have health insurance, which means if they experience a medical emergency they could be in severe financial trouble. It is not uncommon for medical bills to negatively affect a family’s finances, and the country as a whole carries over $220 billion in medical debt. Medical debt isn’t talked about as often as student loans or auto loans, but it is a huge problem that is often easily avoidable. Here’s how health insurance can protect you from the unexpected and how to choose the right plan for you and your family.
- [Is Paying Off Your Mortgage Early a Good Idea? The Truth Is Complicated](https://moneyguy.com/article/paying-mortgage-early-good-idea/): “Should I pay off my mortgage early?” is probably a question you’ve asked yourself at some point if you have extra cash flow. This question, like almost every question in the personal finance world, isn’t a simple “yes” or “no” and is highly dependent on your personal situation. For the first time in over two decades, though, external factors may be having a big impact on whether or not you should pay off your mortgage early.
- [Top 10 Traits of a Financial Mutant](https://moneyguy.com/article/top-10-traits-of-a-financial-mutant/): Being a Financial Mutant is not about having a certain amount of money in the bank or invested for retirement. It’s not even about always making the best financial decisions possible (even Financial Mutants make mistakes from time to time). We coined the term “Financial Mutant” to describe those who make their dollars stretch a little bit further than their peers. Financial Mutants don’t think about money the same way everyone else does and their financial lives are vastly different from the average American.
- [Inflation Unexpectedly Reversed Last Month. Here’s What That Means.](https://moneyguy.com/article/inflation-unexpectedly-reversed-last-month/): We hit a major milestone in the fight against inflation last month: prices actually declined month over month for the first time since the early days of the pandemic in May of 2020 (as measured by the Consumer Price Index). That’s right, the last time we experienced a decline in prices we had a different president in the White House and many of us across the country were under lockdown orders and unable to go about our daily lives. Does the latest inflation data represent a turning point in the long battle against higher prices or is it still too early to tell? Let’s take a closer look.
- [Mega Backdoor Roth: What Is It and When To Use It](https://moneyguy.com/article/mega-backdoor-roth-what-is-it-and-when-to-use-it/): As the name implies, the Mega Backdoor Roth strategy is a way to build a very large amount of tax-free Roth dollars for retirement. While a traditional “Backdoor” Roth allows high-income earners to contribute to their Roth IRA, the Mega Backdoor Roth allows those with qualified employer plans, such as a 401(k), to funnel more money through their plan into a Roth IRA. In 2024, you may be able to get up to $46,000 extra into a Roth IRA, beyond your typical employee contribution limit. Sound too good to be true? Well, there are several catches, and this strategy isn’t right for everyone. Read on to find out if a Mega Backdoor Roth could work for you.
- [USA Today Features Brian Preston!](https://moneyguy.com/article/usa-today-features-brian-preston/): "Meet the millionaires next door. These Americans made millions out of nothing." USA Today recently featured Brian Preston in their article and highlighted his success story! Brian shares how he got to where he is at today and some important key events that took place in his life that helped give him the motivation to create The Money Guy Show.
- [How To Pay Off High-Interest Debt](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-pay-off-high-interest-debt/): High-interest debt is very harmful to your financial life, and the magic of compounding interest can work against you just as much as it can work for you. It can feel like an uphill battle that you have no chance of winning, and high-interest debt takes both a financial and psychological toll. However, there is a light at the tunnel and you can work towards building your more beautiful tomorrow regardless of your debts. We want to help you develop a plan of attack for getting rid of extremely harmful debt.
- [Is Homeownership Really A Good Investment? (Can I Rent Forever?)](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-homeownership-really-a-good-investment-can-i-rent-forever/): In this episode, we discuss if it's ever a good idea to rent forever. Download our free Home Buying Checklist today!
- [How To Choose the Right Online Bank for You](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-choose-the-right-online-bank-for-you/): A place to live. Food. Water. A banking relationship. What do all of these things have in common? You can’t live without them. It is impossible to live and spend money in the United States without a bank of some sort. Unlike other financial products, such as life insurance, a Roth IRA, or even credit cards, you cannot live without a bank. The first financial account you ever had may have been a checking account at your local bank. Choosing the right bank is essential to starting your financial life out on the right foot, or, if you are switching banks, building a stronger foundation underneath your finances.
- [Financial Residency Podcast Features Brian Preston’s FOO!](https://moneyguy.com/article/financial-residency-podcast-features-brian-prestons-foo/): Financial Residency is all about helping those in the medical industry simply be better with money! When they invited Brian on the show to share about our Financial Order of Operations, we were honored. In this episode, Brian breaks down our Financial Order of Operations and gives practical advice for those in the medical industry on on how they can be better with money.
- [Can I Break the 25% Rule While House Hacking?](https://moneyguy.com/article/can-i-break-the-25-rule-while-house-hacking/): Is it ever wise to break the 25% rule when buying a home? What are some exceptions to this rule? In this episode, Brian and Bo discuss what you need to consider first before buying a home and potentially making a huge financial mistake!
- [The Millionaire’s Perspective on Money (And What You Can Learn)](https://moneyguy.com/article/the-millionaires-perspective-on-money-and-what-you-can-learn/): The millionaire's perspective on money may not be what you think. In this episode, Brian and Bo share what you can learn about having a healthy perspective on money!
- [Brian Preston Makes The USA Today Bestseller List!](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-makes-the-usa-today-bestseller-list/): Millionaire Mission made the USA Today Bestseller List and ranked #84 overall bestselling book! Wow, what an honor. We can’t thank everyone enough for the support. Every copy of Millionaire Mission that was purchased helped us achieve this amazing accomplishment. You’ve heard Brian say leading up to the book’s launch he was nervous. He put his heart in those pages and on the line by publishing Millionaire Mission. We’ve got the best supporters in all of personal finance and it’s not even close. Brian was hoping Millionaire Mission would make a difference in people’s lives - and we’re already seeing that happen.
- [Brian Preston Shines on Fox 5 Atlanta!](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-shines-on-fox-5-atlanta/): Renowned financial advisor Brian Preston, host of The Money Guy Show, took the stage on Fox 5 Atlanta to share tips to level up your finances and unveil invaluable insights from his latest book, ‘Millionaire Mission.’ New York Times best-selling author Brian Preston's new book is aimed at giving readers advice on how to tackle competing financial priorities. We were honored that Fox 5 invited us to share a little bit about Millionaire Mission and our passion for helping others be better with money!
- [5 Great Ways To Earn Extra Money on the Side](https://moneyguy.com/article/5-great-ways-to-earn-extra-money-on-the-side/): Chances are, especially if you are early on in your financial journey, you could use a little extra jingle in your pocket. Whether you want to invest more for retirement, save up for a home down payment more quickly, put away more for the kids’ college funds, or whatever other financial goal you have, extra income would help you achieve it. After all, there are only two ways to create extra margin in your financial life: decrease your spending or increase your income. Increasing your income is a great option for those who aren’t able or aren’t willing to further reduce expenses to meet their financial goals.
- [Go Banking Rates Shares Brian Preston’s Financial Lesson!](https://moneyguy.com/article/go-banking-rates-shares-brian-prestons-financial-lesson/): "I’m a Self-Made Millionaire: Here’s the Luxury Car I Bought (and Regret)" - Go Banking Rates recently highlighted Brian Preston's story of buying a luxury vehicle and then later regretting it. Here's what Brian had to say:
- [Her Money Podcast Features Brian Preston!](https://moneyguy.com/article/her-money-podcast-features-brian-preston/): "If you own a business, you know exactly how important it is to have the right team in place — but that need doesn’t end with your day-to-day staff and contractors. Successful leaders understand the importance of finding the kind of trusted professionals and advisors who can help navigate the road ahead, a personal board of directors if you will."
- [Brian Preston Shines on The Stacking Benjamins Show!](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-shines-on-the-stacking-benjamins-show/): "Learning a new language is difficult, and the language of money is no exception. Brian Preston from The Money Guys has created shortcut words and phrases like “financial mutant” to help you focus on what’s important and ignore the rest. We’ll discuss how to get started, the key moves to reach long-term goals, how to avoid making costly mistakes, and more. Whether you’re someone just beginning your journey or a seasoned investor, there’s a little something for everyone every time we speak with Brian."
- [Brian Preston is Featured on Frugal Friends Podcast!](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-is-featured-on-frugal-friends-podcast/): "We love convenience, who doesn’t? We love anything that will make our lives faster and easier; hence, we love cashless transactions but we have forgotten how significant it is to have cash. In this episode, Jen and Jill join Brian Preston of The Money Guy to discuss the importance of having saved cash, whether as emergency funds or for opportunities."
- [BiggerPockets Highlights The Financial Order of Operations!](https://moneyguy.com/article/biggerpockets-highlights-the-financial-order-of-operations/): "If you follow these nine steps, you will reach financial independence. How do we know? Well, The Money Guy Show’s Brian Preston and Bo Hanson have tested it hundreds of times! Using this simple but extremely powerful “financial order of operations,” anyone from any background can achieve FIRE, even starting with nothing. From free money to becoming easily debt-free, building a solid financial foundation, and even paying off your mortgage early, Brian and Bo break down the exact route to financial freedom anyone can take."
- [Brian Preston Highlights New Book On Financially Independent Teachers Podcast!](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-highlights-new-book-on-financially-independent-teachers-podcast/): The Financially Independent Teachers Podcast featured our very own Brian Preston on their show. Brian shares insights of his own personal story and shares what he has learned along the way in order to own your time and become financially independent! Brian shares about his brand new book, Millionaire Mission and the heart behind the book.  We had a blast having an open discussion about teachers and the practical tips they can implement in order to reach their own financial goals. Thank you, Financially Independent Teachers podcast for having us!
- [Brian Preston Shines on Marriage Kids and Money Podcast!](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-shines-on-marriage-kids-and-money-podcast/): Marriage Kids and Money recently had Brian Preston on their podcast to share all about how to become a millionaire by investing now! Brian highlights his new book, Millionaire Mission and gives practical steps on how to make smart financial decisions.
- [ABC Talk of Alabama Highlights Brian Preston’s New Book!](https://moneyguy.com/article/abc-talk-of-alabama-highlights-brian-prestons-new-book/): Brian joined Talk of Alabama to discuss his brand new book, Millionaire Mission. In this episode of Talk of Alabama, financial advisor Brian Preston shared key insights on cultivating a millionaire mindset and gives practical tips on how to build wealth to ultimately own your own time. This interview serves as a timely reminder that it is never to late to start your own wealth building journey.
- [Brian Preston Featured on Yahoo Finance: Millionaire Mission Author Discusses Wealth Building](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-featured-on-yahoo-finance-millionaire-mission-author-discusses-wealth-building/): Yahoo Finance featured The Money Guy Show in their most recent article discussing how investing from an early age along with an optimistic mindset can set you on a journey to become a millionaire.
- [Does It Ever Make Sense To Break the Money Guy Rules?](https://moneyguy.com/article/does-it-ever-make-sense-to-break-the-money-guy-rules/): Rules are made to be broken, right? In the case of our Money Guy rules that is absolutely not the case, but there are some circumstances where breaking a Money Guy rule may be an option you are considering. After all, the Financial Order of Operations is not linear and you will find yourself going forwards and backwards and forwards again.  Just like going backwards in the FOO, there may be some situations in life where it makes sense to bend or break a Money Guy rule. Here’s what you should be thinking about when it comes to some of our most popular rules and if you should ever consider breaking them.
- [How Do We Avoid Being House Poor?](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-do-we-avoid-being-house-poor/): In this episode, we discuss how to buy a house the smart way to avoid common pitfalls such as becoming "house poor."
- [Are There Financial Guidelines for Home Renovation?](https://moneyguy.com/article/are-there-financial-guidelines-for-home-renovation/): When it comes to renovating your home, you want to be careful to avoid common financial mistakes! In this episode, we discuss clear guidelines to help keep you on track financially while renovating your home.
- [Yahoo Finance Highlights Brian Preston in Latest Article!](https://moneyguy.com/article/yahoo-finance-highlights-brian-preston-in-latest-article/): When you come from humble beginnings, achieving millionaire status is an incredible accomplishment. But getting there requires focus, discipline and learning from those who have walked the path before you. We were honored to see that Go Banking Rates highlighted Brian's journey to millionaire status. In this article, Brian gives the three key ingredients for building wealth along with practical ways to build wealth..
- [Brian Preston is Featured on The More Money Podcast!](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-is-featured-on-the-more-money-podcast/): Jessica Moorhouse from The More Money Podcast recently featured our very own Brian Preston on her show. Brian shared the system he used to become a millionaire. He offers a clear guide on building wealth, emphasizing that financial education is key to making smart decisions. Brian's roadmap provides a straightforward path to help you achieve your financial goals and potentially joining the millionaire club.
- [Abound Wealth Recognized by USA Today & Statista as a Best Financial Advisory Firms 2024](https://moneyguy.com/article/abound-wealth-recognized-by-usa-today-statista-as-a-best-financial-advisory-firms-2024/): USA Today and Statista created their inaugural list of Best Financial Advisory Firms 2024, which featured our very own Abound Wealth! The top registered investment advisory (RIA) firms in the United States were selected based on recommendations (from financial advisors, clients, and industry experts) and Development of Assets under Management (AUM).
- [How To Invest for Retirement the Right Way](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-invest-for-retirement-the-right-way/): Our Financial Order of Operations lays out what to do with every dollar, including when to pay off debt, when to build an emergency fund, and when and where to invest for retirement. Investing for retirement can be confusing for newcomers because the steps of the Financial Order of Operations don’t fit neatly into everyone’s financial life. Not everyone has an employer plan, which means steps 2 and 6 may be impossible to achieve. Not everyone can contribute to an HSA or Roth IRA, which eliminates step 5. No matter what retirement plans you have access to or don’t have access to, here’s how to think about investing for retirement.
- [What Should I Count Towards My 25% Investing Rate?](https://moneyguy.com/article/what-should-i-count-towards-my-25-investing-rate/): This highlight discusses what should count towards our 25% savings rule and the power of saving 25%. Your money has incredible value – use our Wealth Multiplier Calculator to see for yourself.
- [When Does It Make Sense to Pause Investing?](https://moneyguy.com/article/when-does-it-make-sense-to-pause-investing/): The highlight discusses the financial complexities of maximizing employer benefits, emphasizing the importance of disciplined savings, especially for high-income earners, to secure a comfortable retirement and avoid lifestyle inflation pitfalls. Want to know what to do with your next dollar? You need this free download: the Financial Order of Operations. It’s our nine tried-and-true steps that will help you secure your financial future.
- [Brian Preston featured on Go Banking Rates: I’m a Self-Made Millionaire: 3 Things I Never Buy With Credit](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-featured-on-go-banking-rates-im-a-self-made-millionaire-3-things-i-never-buy-with-credit/): Go Banking Rates featured Brian Preston on their recent article highlighting things self-made millionaires never buy with credit!
- [Average 401(k) Balance For a 30 Year Old (2024 Edition)](https://moneyguy.com/article/average-401k-balance-for-a-30-year-old-2024-edition/): This highlight discusses the importance of being purposeful with your savings in your 30s, recommending a 25% savings rate to maximize financial growth and secure future stability. By the end of the decade, individuals should aim to have their investments established, which can be achieved with focused financial planning and discipline.
- [What Should Investing Look Like During Retirement?](https://moneyguy.com/article/what-should-investing-look-like-during-retirement/): In this highlight we provide valuable insights into how investing strategies change as you transition from accumulating wealth to living off your assets in retirement. Learn about the importance of risk management, glide paths, and maintaining the right balance between opportunity and caution to ensure a successful retirement.
- [Why Forecasting the Future of Inflation (and Interest Rates) Is So Difficult](https://moneyguy.com/article/why-forecasting-the-future-of-inflation-and-interest-rates-is-so-difficult/): We are not in the business of making predictions at The Money Guy Show. In fact, if you’ve watched or listened to the show for any amount of time, you know we stay far away from predicting the direction of the stock market, economy, and other leading financial metrics. The last several years, inflation has been about the only financial metric on everyone’s minds. If inflation continues to drop, interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve seem more likely. Interest rate cuts are stimulative to businesses, households, and the overall economy since they make borrowing money cheaper and encourage people to buy houses, businesses to hire employees and take risks, and more.
- [Unveiling America’s Top Wealth Killers: Wealth Killer #1 – Everyone is Talking About This!](https://moneyguy.com/article/unveiling-americas-top-wealth-killers-wealth-killer-1-everyone-is-talking-about-this/): Discover how inflation can impact your wealth and learn effective strategies to protect your finances. Understand the factors driving inflation, its effects on everyday costs, and how to make informed decisions when it comes to housing and major expenses.
- [How Do You Invest Across Different Account Types?](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-do-you-invest-across-different-account-types/): Learn how to optimize your investments across different account types, including Roth, taxable, and 401(k) accounts, with tailored strategies for each. Discover how to maximize growth potential while minimizing taxes and ensure your portfolio is set up for long-term financial success.
- [Can You Have Too Much Money in a Roth Account?](https://moneyguy.com/article/can-you-have-too-much-money-in-a-roth-account/): We explore the advantages and potential downsides of holding a substantial amount of money in a Roth account. Learn the intricacies of tax planning, optimal asset allocation, and the emotional benefits of managing Roth accounts for long-term wealth and legacy building.
- [What Is Considered Critical Mass During Wealth Building?](https://moneyguy.com/article/what-is-considered-critical-mass-during-wealth-building/): We discuss when to diversify your investments and recognize critical mass in your portfolio. Learn strategies for maximizing your savings rate and achieving financial success as you navigate your wealth-building journey.
- [Brian Preston Breaks Down Tax Tips for 2024 on Good Day NY](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-breaks-down-tax-tips-for-2024-on-good-day-ny/): Renowned financial advisor Brian Preston, host of The Money Guy Show, took the stage on Fox 5's Good Day NY to shed light on essential Tax Day strategies and unveil invaluable insights from his latest book, 'Millionaire Mission.' With years of experience empowering audiences with practical financial wisdom, Preston's appearance offered viewers actionable advice to navigate tax season with confidence while embarking on their own millionaire journey.
- [7 Lessons I Learned From Buying My First House](https://moneyguy.com/article/7-lessons-i-learned-from-buying-my-first-house/): There is no replacement for hands-on experience. You can read all you want to about Roth IRAs, 401(k)s, starting your own business, or buying a home, but the experience of actually doing these things cannot be replicated in any other way. My wife and I recently closed on our first home and I now know so much more now about the home-buying process than I did last year. If you are about to start the home-buying process or will be in the coming years, I hope learning from my experience can make things a little bit smoother for you. Here is everything I’m glad I did - or wish I would have done differently - when buying my first home.
- [Financial Planning 101 for 30-Year-Olds – Guide to Financial Success](https://moneyguy.com/article/financial-planning-101-for-30-year-olds-guide-to-financial-success/): When we think of financial planning, we might think of budgeting, investing, or estate planning. The truth is your financial plan needs to include all of that and more.
- [Is a High Yield Savings Account Still the Best Place to Keep an Emergency Fund?](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-a-high-yield-savings-account-still-the-best-place-to-keep-an-emergency-fund/): Jay has a 6 month emergency fund in a high-yield savings account. With interest rates likely to drop this year, Jay wants to know our thoughts on decreasing to a 3 month emergency fund and putting that money in a treasury bond/CD ladder.
- [Brian Preston Amplifies the ‘Loud Budgeting’ Movement on LifeUpswing](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-amplifies-the-loud-budgeting-movement-on-lifeupswing/): In a recent feature on LifeUpswing, financial advisor Brian Preston sheds light on the growing "loud budgeting" trend, emphasizing the importance of transparent money conversations. Preston's insights highlight how vocalizing financial boundaries can lead to healthier spending habits and long-term financial stability, steering individuals away from debt and toward their financial goals.
- [Are We Financial Misers for Investing 60% of Income in Your Mid-20s?](https://moneyguy.com/article/are-we-financial-misers-for-investing-60-of-income-in-your-mid-20s/): Here at The Money Guy Show, we want to help you invest in your financial future through different investment vehicles (like your 401k). With that being said, we don't want you to become a miserable financial miser.
- [Earn & Invest Highlights Brian Preston’s Millionaire Mission!](https://moneyguy.com/article/earn-invest-highlights-brian-prestons-millionaire-mission/): The Earn & Invest podcast featured financial advisor Brian Preston, who shared his 9-step system for maximizing your "army of dollar bills," known as the Financial Order of Operations. In this episode, Brian emphasizes the importance of balancing spending today with saving for tomorrow to create the life you want. He also discusses strategies that have brought success for his clients over decades of financial planning.
- [How Everyday 30-Year-Olds Can Stay on the Path to Becoming Millionaires!](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-everyday-30-year-olds-can-stay-on-the-path-to-becoming-millionaires/): For most people, your 30s are a time refer to called "The Messy Middle." Your time is limited and difficult to prioritize. Your money is being pulled in many different directions. That's why we're using our case study of Manny and Maddie the Financial Mutants to show how to handle this challenging time.
- [Why Are Credit Card Interest Rates So High?](https://moneyguy.com/article/why-are-credit-card-interest-rates-so-high/): Average interest rates on credit card accounts assessed interest last year rose to a record high of 22.75%. If you never carry a balance on your credit card this rate doesn’t matter, but only 35% of credit card users say they always pay their balance in full every month. Like it or not, the average credit card APR matters significantly to most credit card users. We take it for granted that credit card interest rates are extremely high, but has it always been this way? And does it have to be this way?
- [How to Become a Millionaire By Age (30-Year-Olds): 2024 Edition](https://moneyguy.com/article/why-should-you-prioritize-roth-in-the-financial-order-of-operations/): This highlight discusses financial habits and strategies for individuals in their 30s to achieve millionaire status, emphasizing the importance of avoiding consumption traps such as excessive car payments, high-interest debt, and overcommitting to housing costs, while also prioritizing saving and emergency funds. It provides savings benchmarks for different age groups and underscores the significance of making incremental financial decisions to secure long-term wealth.
- [Does the 25% Gross Mortgage Rule Still Apply in 2024?](https://moneyguy.com/article/does-the-25-gross-mortgage-rule-still-apply-in-2024/): Regarding the 25% gross mortgage rule listed: I believe Dave Ramsey has recommended 25% net pay. Do you find that variance from net to gross ever being a concern when deciding on a future mortgage?
- [Where Should You Invest? (A Beginner’s Guide to Investing in 2024)](https://moneyguy.com/article/where-should-you-invest-a-beginners-guide-to-investing-in-2024/): Just like your checking account is held at a bank, your investment accounts (Roth IRAs, 401(k)s, etc.) are held with a custodian. We love using custodians that have been around for a long time and are established, credible providers. Some include Fidelity, Schwab, and Vanguard.
- [What Is The Best Way To Buy A Home In An Expensive State?](https://moneyguy.com/article/what-is-the-best-way-to-buy-a-home-in-an-expensive-state/): My wife and I are saving for our 1st home in an expensive state. Should we look for starter homes that we'll outgrow or "stretch" for a more expensive home that we can commit to for 10+ years?
- [My Experience Using You Need a Budget (YNAB)](https://moneyguy.com/article/my-experience-using-you-need-a-budget-ynab/): Popular personal finance app Mint was shut down in 2024. Here Money Guy reviews YNAB, aka "You Need a Budget" as a popular budgeting app and potential alternative vs. Mint.com (now creditkarma by Intuit).
- [Why Is Diversification Safer Despite 100% Stock Success?](https://moneyguy.com/article/why-is-diversification-safer-despite-100-stock-success/): I used the historical simulations of retirement you've mentioned and 100% stocks always had better "success rates" than diversifying into cash and bonds. If that's true, why is diversification safer?
- [I Have $120,000 In Stocks. Can I Pull Out Money For A Down Payment?](https://moneyguy.com/article/i-have-120000-in-stocks-can-i-pull-out-money-for-a-down-payment/): d
- [30-Year-Olds’ Guide to Wealth: The 3-Bucket Strategy (2024 Edition)](https://moneyguy.com/article/30-year-olds-guide-to-wealth-the-3-bucket-strategy-2024-edition/): You might not have a lot of extra money or time in your 30s - but contributing to retirement accounts should be a priority. If you can stretch your dollars to work harder than your peers, you can build the foundation for a wonderful financial future.
- [Is Cash Now Trash Again? Federal Reserve Signals Intent to Lower Rates](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-cash-now-trash-again-federal-reserve-signals-intent-to-lower-rates/): Now that the Federal Reserve has signaled that they intend to drop rates, is cash now trash again? If so, where should I park my money if I need it in 3 – 5 years? This is a clip from one of our Q&A livestreams.
- [How To Pay Off Debt the Right Way](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-pay-off-debt-the-right-way/): The median debt of the typical American family is just over $80,000, which includes car debt, home debt, student loans, credit card balances, and more. This is down from a peak of around $96,000 during the Great Recession, but up from $75,350 the last time the survey was conducted. Inflation-adjusted credit card balances are actually at their lowest level since 1992, while student loans per household are near an all-time high. Unless you are retired, chances are you have some type of debt, whether that’s car debt, mortgage debt, student loan debt, credit card debt, or other debt.
- [How to Win Financially Making $100,000 a Year!](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-win-financially-making-100000-a-year/): $100,000 sounds like a lot on paper, but chances are you could be starting to progress in your career with a lot of new life obligations. Get ahead by recognizing your blind spots and rebuilding good habits. Want to know how much you should save to build your wealth? Use our FREE resource to answer that question for you!
- [I Am 28 With $120,000 Invested (Can I Slow Down Investing?)](https://moneyguy.com/article/i-am-28-with-120000-invested-can-i-slow-down-investing/): I am 28 with $120,000 invested. Can I let off the gas on investing? I would like to quit my job to stay home with the new baby but that’s only possible with lowering investing.
- [What Is the Current State of Real Estate Investing? with Dave Meyer of BiggerPockets](https://moneyguy.com/article/what-is-the-current-state-of-real-estate-investing-with-dave-meyer-of-biggerpockets/): We are so excited to welcome Dave Meyer of BiggerPockets joins us to discuss tips for investors, the housing market, and his new book.
- [Brian Preston Shines on WCCB Charlotte with Exclusive Tips for Couples on How To Save Money Together!](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-shines-on-wccb-charlotte-with-exclusive-tips-for-couples-on-how-to-save-money-together/): Brian Preston, financial advisor and host of The Money Guy Show, recently appeared on WCCB Charlotte to discuss navigating financial conversations in relationships. In a segment titled "Tips For Couples On How To Save Money Together," Preston offered seasoned guidance on tackling tough money talks and working towards a shared financial future. He provided valuable insights for couples looking to build a secure financial foundation together, unveiling practical strategies for achieving financial harmony.
- [When Is It Okay to Lower Your Investing Rate Below 20%?](https://moneyguy.com/article/when-is-it-okay-to-lower-your-investing-rate-below-20/): What exactly is required for you to get comfortable with someone backing down their savings rate below 20%? Wait until a certain age? Know your number? Monte Carlo and scenario analyses? What else?
- [Exclusive Sneak Peek of Millionaire Mission by Brian Preston](https://moneyguy.com/article/exclusive-sneak-peek-of-millionaire-mission-by-brian-preston/): An exclusive interview with the Money Guy himself! He dives into the writing process, his path to wealth, and everything you need to know about his book, Millionaire Mission.
- [How To Become a Financial Advisor](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-become-a-financial-advisor/): This will sound like bragging, but it isn’t uncommon for others to want to do what we do for a living at Money Guy and Abound Wealth Management. Helping others make sound financial decisions is an attractive career path for those that love personal finance and want to help others. Unfortunately, not everyone that becomes a financial advisor ends up helping others and some even take advantage of others. Here’s how advisors at our firm got to where they are and how you can start on your own path to becoming a financial advisor.
- [Do Married People Build Wealth Quickly?](https://moneyguy.com/article/do-married-people-build-wealth-quickly/): Discover the secrets to financial success in marriage! Dive into fun conversations, compromise with your partner, and use tools like the Financial Order of Operations. Get ready for a journey towards financial harmony!
- [Brian Preston Advises Couples on Fox 26 Houston’s Morning Show!](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-advises-couples-on-fox-26-houstons-morning-show/): This morning on Fox 26 Houston's Morning Show, financial advisor Brian Preston tackled the sensitive topic of couples dealing with hidden debt purchases. Joining host Heather Sullivan, Preston offered essential guidance on addressing and resolving challenges that arise when financial secrets strain relationships. Viewers learned practical tips and strategies to foster open communication and financial transparency within their partnerships. This crucial discussion could be the key to building financial trust and creating a stronger, more united future for couples facing hidden debt dilemmas.
- [What’s the Best Bridge Account for Early Retirement?](https://moneyguy.com/article/whats-the-best-bridge-account-for-early-retirement/): Wife and I are debt free (+ home), and are looking to retire early in 15 years. Are there any options beside HYSAs to bridge between 52 and 59.5?
- [Should We Switch to S&P Before Hiring a Financial Advisor?](https://moneyguy.com/article/should-we-switch-to-sp-before-hiring-a-financial-advisor/): My wife and I are 20+ years from retirement. We are close to where we hire a financial advisor within 2 years. All $250k is in same target index fund. It has underperformed the S&P. Why not switch to S&P before hiring a financial advisor?
- [If I’m Anticipating a Market Crash in 2024/2025, Where Do I Keep My Assets?](https://moneyguy.com/article/if-im-anticipating-a-market-crash-in-2024-2025-where-do-i-keep-my-assets/): If I'm anticipating a market crash in 2024/2025 and I have substantial assets, what is your advice for where I should keep my assets? Also, how much money/cash should I keep if I’m anticipating a crash?
- [How to Calculate Your Savings Rate for FINE By Age (Financial Independence, Next Endeavor)](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-calculate-your-savings-rate-for-fine-by-age-financial-independence-next-endeavor/): Here’s how you can achieve FINE (Financial Independence, Next Endeavor) by age and how much of your income you need to invest to maintain your current lifestyle, by the age you want to move on to your next endeavor.
- [Brian Preston Delivers Tips About Taxes on Fox 7 Austin!](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-delivers-tips-about-taxes-on-fox-7-austin/): Brian Preston recently graced the screen on Fox 7 Austin's Good Day Austin, providing viewers with a succinct yet insightful breakdown of the distinctions between tax avoidance and evasion. Known for his experience in the financial realm, Preston seamlessly guided the audience through essential concepts, offering practical tips on how to ethically minimize tax liabilities.
- [What Should I Do With $400,000 Cash?](https://moneyguy.com/article/what-should-i-do-with-400000-cash/): How do you decide what to do with large sums of money? I have about $400k sitting in an HYSA. I want to buy a home in the future, but my current rent is low so I’ve been putting it off. Should I keep it in the high-yield savings account?
- [Brian Preston (from The Money Guy Show) Featured on News Channel 5!](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-from-the-money-guy-show-featured-on-news-channel-5/): We're thrilled to announce that Brian Preston, founder of the Money Guy Show, recently made a captivating appearance on News Channel 5 Nashville's popular program, Talk of the Town. Known for his insightful financial expertise and engaging personality, Brian took the stage to share valuable insights on wealth-building at any age.
- [Is Renting Actually the Best Way to Build Wealth Instead of Buying?](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-renting-actually-the-best-way-to-build-wealth-instead-of-buying/): Almost every financial person I listen to says buying a home is one of the best ways to build wealth. But for me, at least right now, renting is so much cheaper. Wouldn't it be better to just rent and invest the difference?
- [How Much ‘Hyper Accumulation’ Is Enough?](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-much-hyper-accumulation-is-enough/): ​Y’all have addressed the difference between Steps 6 & 7 of the FOO many times, but what’s the difference between Steps 7 & 8? How do I know when enough “hyper accumulation” is enough?
- [Should I Treat Roth and Traditional Assets Equally in My Net Worth Statement?](https://moneyguy.com/article/should-i-treat-roth-and-traditional-assets-equally-in-my-net-worth-statement/): Roth and traditional retirement assets aren't treated the same for tax purposes, so should you treat them the same on your net worth statement? Here's how we think you should treat Roth and traditional retirement assets.
- [Top College Degrees in 2024](https://moneyguy.com/article/top-college-degrees-in-2024/): The college landscape is constantly evolving, and the top college majors for new college students and graduates change as much as technology is changing the world around us. 10 years ago, degrees in artificial intelligence didn’t even exist; now, the top universities in the country offer AI programs. With the cost of college over 8x more expensive today as it was in 1980, are the increased options students have worth the additional cost?
- [Brian Preston Unveils Expert Tips for Growing Your Wealth in 2024 on WBC Charlotte News Rising!](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-unveils-expert-tips-for-growing-your-wealth-in-2024-on-wbc-charlotte-news-rising/): The Money Guy Show's Brian Preston recently took center stage on WBC Charlotte News Rising, offering viewers an exclusive glimpse into the key strategies and tips for growing wealth in 2024.
- [How Should the 25% Savings Rate Be Allocated?](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-should-the-25-savings-rate-be-allocated/): In this highlight, we discuss the importance of financial planning and allocation of savings in retirement accounts, cash, and taxable brokerages. Are you ready to take your finances to the next level? Check out our Financial Order of Operations resource that outlines the nine steps anyone can take to build wealth and reach financial abundance.
- [The Money Guy Show Featured on Go Banking Rates: 9 Ways To Avoid Paying Taxes in 2024!](https://moneyguy.com/article/the-money-guy-show-featured-on-go-banking-rates-9-ways-to-avoid-paying-taxes-in-2024/): Go Banking Rates featured The Money Guy Show on their recent article highlighting our highlight episode called, "How to Avoid Paying Taxes in 2024!"
- [Average Net Worth of a 30 Year Old! (2024 Edition)](https://moneyguy.com/article/average-net-worth-of-a-30-year-old-2024-edition/): In your 30s, you should be making solid progress to actually increasing your assets (things you own) and decreasing your liabilities (things you owe). It isn’t easy to get it all right in the Messy Middle, but if you work to invest 25% of your gross income for retirement, your net worth will blossom in the coming decades!
- [The Money Guy Show Featured on Yahoo Finance: Should You Move to Another State To Save on Taxes?](https://moneyguy.com/article/the-money-guy-show-featured-on-yahoo-finance-should-you-move-to-another-state-to-save-on-taxes/): Yahoo Finance featured yet another article highlighting The Money Guy Show!
- [The Money Guy Show Featured on Yahoo Finance: Should You Prioritize Retirement Savings or Student Loans?](https://moneyguy.com/article/yahoo-finance-features-the-money-guy-show/): Yahoo Finance featured The Money Guy Show in their most recent article discussing if you should prioritize retirement savings or student loans!
- [At Age 50, Did Brian Pay Off His Mortgage or Does He Still Have a Mortgage?](https://moneyguy.com/article/at-age-50-did-brian-pay-off-his-mortgage-or-does-he-still-have-a-mortgage/): Brian recently turned 50 years old. Did he pay off his mortgage or does he still have a MORTGAGE at age 50?!
- [Brian Preston Appears On Fox 32 Chicago!](https://moneyguy.com/article/brian-preston-appears-on-fox-32-chicago/): Brian Preston recently took center stage on Fox 32 Chicago, sharing expert insights on how to strategically build wealth at different stages of life. Renowned for his expertise in personal finance and financial planning, Brian engaged audiences with valuable tips and practical advice on achieving financial success by age.
- [Mortgage Rates Are Falling. Should You Buy a House Now?](https://moneyguy.com/article/mortgage-rates-are-falling/): The housing market is currently full of fear. Buyers are afraid of buying at the top of the market, or not buying before prices go up even more, depending on how you view the short-term future of housing. Many potential sellers are locked into their homes at low mortgage rates or are having trouble finding a buyer, with rates making their home unaffordable for many. I have a friend who recently sold his home, not long after listing, but after cutting the price. He is afraid that home prices are about to collapse and was relieved to sell it. A record share of Americans, 85%, say that it’s a bad time to buy a home.
- [Is It Possible To Save TOO MUCH For Retirement?](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-it-possible-to-save-too-much-for-retirement/): Is it possible to save TOO MUCH for retirement? This couple is on-track to have over $20 million by retirement and are concerned there is too much saving and not enough living in the present.
- [Why Should You Invest 20-25% Instead Of 10-15%?](https://moneyguy.com/article/why-should-you-invest-20-25-instead-of-10-15/): Several years ago, Brian initially suggested younger investors save 10-15% for retirement. In recent years, that has risen to 20-25%. Why did it change and why should we be saving more now?
- [How Much Money Do You Need To Be Happy?](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-much-money-to-be-happy/): Is there an amount of money you could receive today that would make you happy? If so, how much money would you need to be happy? Americans are divided over this question: 59% believe that money can buy happiness, according to a recent survey. The generational divide over the amount of money we believe would make us happy is stark. Millennials feel they need the most money, at almost $1.7 million, and the generation right below them, Gen Z, believe they need less than $500,000 to be happy. Gen X and Baby Boomers fall in the middle.
- [Should I Maximize My Wife’s Roth IRA Before My 401(k)?](https://moneyguy.com/article/should-i-maximize-my-wifes-roth-ira-before-my-401k/): In the Financial Order of Operations, maximizing your retirement accounts is right after maximizing your Roth IRA and HSA. Where does maximizing your spouse’s Roth IRA fall in the FOO? Check out our new 401(k) Ultimate Guide.
- [If You’re Not Rich Yet, Are You Doing It Wrong? (Money Guy vs the Internet)](https://moneyguy.com/article/if-youre-not-rich-yet-are-you-doing-it-wrong-money-guy-vs-the-internet/): If you aren’t rich yet, are you doing it wrong? We often see a sentiment on social media that if you aren’t currently rich, you are doing it wrong. Is that actually the case?
- [We Are investing Over 30% of Our Income But We Still Feel Behind!](https://moneyguy.com/article/we-are-investing-over-30-of-our-income-but-we-still-feel-behind/): It’s still possible to feel behind on your retirement savings goals even if you are investing a very high percentage of your income for retirement. How do you ever feel like you are caught up?
- [Is It Truly EASY to Become Rich? (Money Guy vs. the Internet)](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-it-truly-easy-to-become-rich-money-guy-vs-the-internet/): Is it easy to become rich? We often hear about passive income and how simple it is to create a stream of income that can replace your full-time job. Is it actually that easy?
- [Does The 25% Investing Rate Apply To High Income Earners? (I Make $460,000)](https://moneyguy.com/article/does-the-25-investing-rate-apply-to-high-income-earners-i-make-460000/): Since higher income earners typically pay more in taxes, do they still need to invest 25% for retirement? Or is it only low and middle-income workers who need to invest the full 25%?
- [Are 401(k)s the Biggest Scam in America? (Money Guy vs. the Internet)](https://moneyguy.com/article/are-401ks-the-biggest-scam-in-america-money-guy-vs-the-internet/): Are 401(k)s actually a SCAM?! We hear that high fees take up half your money, you barely beat out inflation, and funding your 401(k) is like putting your money in a prison. We’ll separate the fact from fiction and tell you the truth about 401(k)s.
- [How to Prioritize Financial Goals When You Can’t Pursue Them All](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-prioritize-financial-goals-when-you-cant-pursue-them-all/): Sometimes we don’t have enough margin to accomplish every financial goal we have at once. For example, you may not be able to invest 25% for retirement AND pay for a new car in cash. If this is the case, which one do you sacrifice?
- [How Drastically Should You Tackle $60,000 in High-Interest Debt?](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-drastically-should-you-tackle-60000-in-high-interest-debt/): High-interest debt is extremely damaging to your financial life. How far should you go to get out of high-interest debt? Does it make sense to sell assets you own to pay off high-interest debt?
- [I Have a Lot of Money, but I Don’t Feel Wealthy!](https://moneyguy.com/article/i-have-a-lot-of-money-but-i-dont-feel-wealthy/): The amount you have invested for retirement might tell you that you’ve made it, but in your head you could feel differently. Is it normal to not feel wealthy when you are on paper?
- [Is Disability Insurance a Necessity? (And How Much Do You Need?)](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-disability-insurance-a-necessity-and-how-much-do-you-need/): Became disabled, either temporarily or permanently, is significantly more likely to occur than an early death. Yet many Americans have life insurance but not disability insurance. Is disability insurance a necessity and how much coverage should one look for?
- [Is There Such a Thing as GOOD Debt?](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-there-such-a-thing-as-good-debt/): Is there such a thing as “good debt” like Robert Kiyosaki says? Is all debt bad? Or is debt more nuanced than that?
- [How to Set Up Your Kids For a Great Financial Future](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-set-up-your-kids-for-a-great-financial-future/): If you are Financial Mutants with kids, you might be wondering exactly what you can do to set them up for a great financial future. If you’ve already saved for their college and helped them start retirement accounts, where do you go from there? How much help is too much help?
- [Abound Wealth Management Recognized As One of UGA’s Bulldog 100!](https://moneyguy.com/article/abound-wealth-management-recognized-as-one-of-ugas-bulldog-100-3/): If you are familiar with the show, you know our love of UGA Athletics and our pride in being UGA alumni. That’s why we’re so excited to be recognized as one of UGA’s Bulldog 100 for 2024. This award recognizes the top 100 fastest-growing organizations owned and operated by UGA alumni. Abound Wealth Management is honored to be among them. We are thankful for our Money Guy family and friends that made this possible. You can read more about this award in the article below. Go Dawgs!
- [Can You Use a Taxable Brokerage Account to Max Out Your Roth?](https://moneyguy.com/article/can-you-use-a-taxable-brokerage-account-to-max-out-your-roth/): If you don’t have the cashflow to maximize your Roth IRA, should you use money in your taxable brokerage account to max out your Roth?
- [Can I Withdraw Retirement Funds Early if I’ve Invested Well Since My 20s?](https://moneyguy.com/article/can-i-withdraw-retirement-funds-early-if-ive-invested-well-since-my-20s/): If you save really well while you are younger, can you start to pull money from your retirement accounts earlier than normal or should you still wait until retirement?
- [Do The Money Guy’s Housing Rules Change in High-Cost Areas?](https://moneyguy.com/article/do-the-money-guys-housing-rules-change-in-high-cost-areas/): Do The Money Guy’s housing rules change for those that live in high cost of living areas? Download our free Home Buying Checklist today!
- [Do You Still Have to Pay Off a Low-Interest Car Loan in 3 Years?](https://moneyguy.com/article/do-you-still-have-to-pay-off-a-low-interest-car-loan-in-3-years/): If you have locked in a low-interest rate on a car, does it make sense to NOT pay it off in three years? Especially if you can currently earn more in a high-yield savings account, it might seem hard to pay it off as a Financial Mutant.
- [How to Prioritize Investing versus Making Memories Now](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-prioritize-investing-versus-making-memories-now/): How do you prioritize investing for retirement and making memories and experiences now? It can feel difficult to prioritize all of life’s needs and have enough left over to lead a fulfilling life.
- [Is 100% Equity Allocation Wise in Retirement?](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-100-equity-allocation-wise-in-retirement/): Some financial gurus are against adjusting your portfolio to a more conservative allocation as you get older. Does it make sense to maintain a 100% equity allocation as you enter retirement?
- [Should I Invest More Than 25% if My Income Doubles in the Next 10 Years?](https://moneyguy.com/article/should-i-invest-more-than-25-if-my-income-doubles-in-the-next-10-years/): Should I Invest More Than 25% if My Income Doubles in the Next 10 Years?
- [Is it Worth Moving to Another State Just to Save Taxes?](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-it-worth-moving-to-another-state-just-to-save-taxes/): Tax laws vary wildly from country to country and even state to state. Choosing where you live could save you a tremendous amount in taxes, and may even make relocating worth considering.
- [Should You Diversify Retirement Assets Beyond Pre-Tax Investments?](https://moneyguy.com/article/should-you-diversify-retirement-assets-beyond-pre-tax-investments/): Does it make sense to diversify retirement assets if you are primarily invested in pre-tax assets?
- [The IRS Just Announced 2024 Tax Changes!](https://moneyguy.com/article/the-irs-just-announced-2024-tax-changes/): I was really excited about last year’s inflation-adjusted IRS numbers because they were the biggest changes we’d seen in years. The changes this year aren’t as large, percentage-wise, but I think they’re even more exciting. Last year, inflation was running pretty hot, and many of the IRS adjustments just kept up with inflation. Currently, inflation is only 3.2%, so many of the IRS inflation adjustments feel bigger this year. I think that’s something we can all be thankful for. So what is changing next year?
- [Secrets of the 1%: Wealth Building and Tax Strategies for Business Owners](https://moneyguy.com/article/secrets-of-the-1-wealth-building-and-tax-strategies-for-business-owners/): Owning your own business can not only be an amazing wealth-building tool, but also a way to lessen your tax burden. Here’s the strategies the 1% of business owners use to avoid taxes and build wealth.
- [Retirement Savings vs. Student Loans: Which Should You Prioritize?](https://moneyguy.com/article/retirement-savings-vs-student-loans-which-should-you-prioritize/): If you have little or no savings for retirement, does it still make sense to prioritize higher interest student loans or should you invest for retirement?
- [The Best Tax Benefits Of Real Estate Investing](https://moneyguy.com/article/the-best-tax-benefits-of-real-estate-investing/): Real estate is not only a popular way to invest, but there are also special tax laws created to encourage investing in real estate. Learn how you can avoid taxes by investing in real estate, whether you are a homeowner or seasoned investor!
- [How to Influence Your Employer’s 401(k) Plan for Optimal Benefits](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-influence-your-employers-401k-plan-for-optimal-benefits/): Not all employer 401(k) plans are created equal. If you are able to influence your employer’s decision, what should you tell them to do?
- [How to Avoid Paying Unnecessary Taxes While Investing](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-avoid-paying-unnecessary-taxes-while-investing/): Not all investing vehicles are created equal, and some investments are more tax-efficient than others. Here’s how you can invest for the future and avoid unnecessary taxes at the same time.
- [Should I Purchase a $240,000 Car to Impress Potential Clients?](https://moneyguy.com/article/should-i-purchase-a-240000-car-to-impress-potential-clients/): If you are young and just out of college starting a job with a high earning potential, you might feel the need to buy a fancy new care to impress your clients and peers. Is this something you should do and how should you think about it?
- [How to Legally Avoid Paying Taxes in Retirement!](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-legally-avoid-paying-taxes-in-retirement/): Did you know that there are perfectly legal strategies you can use to AVOID paying taxes in retirement? Contributing to these accounts can minimize your tax burden when it comes time to hang ‘em up.
- [Is It a Good Idea to Use Permanent Life Insurance for Long-Term Care Expenses?](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-it-a-good-idea-to-use-permanent-life-insurance-for-long-term-care-expenses/): Is it ever a good idea to use permanent life insurance for long-term care expenses as opposed to self-insuring or purchasing long-term care insurance?
- [What Should I Do With A $100,000 Inheritance?](https://moneyguy.com/article/what-should-i-do-with-a-100000-inheritance/): If you are fortunate enough to inherit a large sum of money, what should you do with it? Purchase a house, if that is your goal, or invest the funds for retirement?
- [How Do I Best Utilize a 10% Company Match and Other Investments?](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-do-i-best-utilize-a-10-company-match-and-other-investments/): Some very generous companies offer dollar-for-dollar matches on a high percentage of employee compensation. How should you look at your overall savings rate if you get a very generous employer contribution.
- [How to Manage Uncontrollable Financial Stress](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-manage-uncontrollable-financial-stress/): How do you handle financial stressors you can’t control? The price of housing and cars can make you feel defeated as prices just keep going up and up with no end in sight.
- [Abound Wealth is Named One of The Fastest-Growing Fee-Only RIAs of 2023](https://moneyguy.com/article/abound-wealth-is-named-one-of-the-fastest-growing-fee-only-rias-of-2023/): InvestmentNews recently featured our very own Abound Wealth Management as one of Fastest Growing RIAs of 2023! According to InvestmentNews, "the Fastest-Growing Fee-Only RIAs of 2023 are celebrated for attracting new assets since July 2020. While all 75 winners are trusted and reliable partners for their clients, each firm has its own unique strategy and operating methods." We were honored to be featured!
- [How to be Wealthy in Your 50s (2024 Edition)](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-be-wealthy-in-your-50s-2024-edition/): By the time your are in your 50s, there are no less than 1,000 reasons for why you might be behind. However, the importance of righting the ship at this stage is probably more important than any other decade as it’s not a something you “should” do, but it is rapidly approaching something you “have” to do.
- [How to Convince Your Spouse That Investing for Retirement Is a High Priority](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-convince-your-spouse-that-investing-for-retirement-is-a-high-priority/): Not everyone is always on the same page in a marriage. How do you convince your spouse to view investing for retirement as a higher priority?
- [How to be Wealthy in Your 40s (2024 Edition)](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-be-wealthy-in-your-40s-2024-edition/): If you are behind in your 40s, you may have been a rudderless ship. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t time left to turn the ship around! Here’s what you need to do (and avoid) in your 40s to build wealth.
- [What Are the Best Accounts and Strategies for New Investors?](https://moneyguy.com/article/what-are-the-best-accounts-and-strategies-for-new-investors/): If you are new to investing, where should you open an account and contribute to? For someone who made mistakes investing, it can be difficult to start back again.
- [How to be Wealthy in Your 30s (2024 Edition)](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-be-wealthy-in-your-30s-2024-edition/): We call the decade of your 30s the messy middle for a reason. You might be having kids, buying a house, and getting busier with your career. With time and money both at a premium, how can you invest for retirement?
- [I Broke the 20/3/8 Rule! (What Are My Options?)](https://moneyguy.com/article/i-broke-the-20-3-8-rule-what-are-my-options/): If you haven’t been following our 20/3/8 rule for purchasing a car, should you pay your car off as quickly as possible or over the normal term of the loan (even if it’s longer than 3 years)?
- [How to be Wealthy in Your 20s (2024 Edition)](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-be-wealthy-in-your-20s-2024-edition/): Here’s how to get ahead (and stay there) when building wealth in your 20s. Many of your peers struggle with credit card debt, a new car, or death by a thousand paper cuts. If you can save just a little today, you can get closer to creating your more beautiful tomorrow.
- [When You Hit Your Retirement Number, Should You Keep Investing?](https://moneyguy.com/article/when-you-hit-your-retirement-number-should-you-keep-investing/): If you Know Your Number for retirement and reach that goal, does it make sense to continue investing even when you don’t need to be anymore?
- [Why Are Backdoor Roth and Mega Backdoor Roth ‘Loopholes’ Allowed?](https://moneyguy.com/article/why-are-backdoor-roth-and-mega-backdoor-roth-loopholes-allowed/): If Roth accounts are so good that the government limits who contributes and how much they can contribute, then why do we have “loopholes” like the backdoor Roth and mega backdoor Roth that allow people to contribute when they shouldn’t be able to?
- [High-Yield Savings vs. 0% APR Financing for Large Purchases](https://moneyguy.com/article/high-yield-savings-vs-0-apr-financing-for-large-purchases/): With high-yield savings accounts earning 4% to 5% in interest, does it make sense to finance large purchases like furniture at 0% APR to keep more of your cash working for you?
- [Is Having ZERO Debt the Fast Path to Wealth? (Money Guy Reacts to Dave Ramsey)](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-having-zero-debt-the-fast-path-to-wealth-money-guy-reacts-to-dave-ramsey/): Is having no debt at all truly the quickest path to wealth? Debt can be extremely dangerous, but we believe it can actually be a wealth-building tool when used for good.
- [4 Ways To Actually Save Money on Black Friday in 2023](https://moneyguy.com/article/4-ways-to-actually-save-money-on-black-friday-in-2023/): Believe it or not, Black Friday was not a holiday invented by retailers to encourage consumers to spend more. The day after Thanksgiving being referred to as “Black Friday” began in the 1950s, and it initially referred to the practice of workers calling out sick on that Friday - completely unrelated to shopping! By the 1980s, stores had adopted a new meaning. “Black Friday” has come to mean, for them, the beginning of the period of the year where they enter into “the black” and generate profits for the year.
- [The Messy Middle: Balancing 25% Investment Amid Life Changes!](https://moneyguy.com/article/the-messy-middle-balancing-25-investment-amid-life-changes/): Investing 25% for retirement when you are trying to buy a home, are getting married, or having kids (or all three!) can be very challenging. How should you think about investing 25% in the Messy Middle?
- [Are Credit Scores a Scam? (Money Guy Reacts to Dave Ramsey)](https://moneyguy.com/article/are-credit-scores-a-scam-money-guy-reacts-to-dave-ramsey/): Are credit scores a scam? Debt can be chainsaw dangerous, but it is possible to maintain a great credit score while having a healthy relationship with debt.
- [Is It Wise to Withdraw from Your 401(k) to Pay Off Student Loans Early in Your Career?](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-it-wise-to-withdraw-from-your-401k-to-pay-off-student-loans-early-in-your-career/): If you are early in your career, you may have both a 401(k) and student loans. Does it ever make sense to take money out of your 401(k) to pay off those student loans?
- [Will You REGRET Paying Off Your Home Early? (Money Guy Reacts to Dave Ramsey)](https://moneyguy.com/article/will-you-regret-paying-off-your-home-early-money-guy-reacts-to-dave-ramsey/): Is it ever possible for someone to REGRET paying off their home early? Dave Ramsey doesn’t think so. We discuss if there is ever a situation where it may not be prudent to pay off a mortgage as quickly as possible.
- [How to Balance the Trade-Off Between Current Spending and Future Retirement](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-balance-the-trade-off-between-current-spending-and-future-retirement/): Investing more for retirement means you are spending less now. What’s the point of investing so much now when you may not be spending much at all in retirement? Isn’t it better to spend more now and enjoy life a little?
- [The Money Guy Show Reacts to Dave Ramsey’s 8% Withdrawal Rate](https://moneyguy.com/article/the-money-guy-show-reacts-to-dave-ramseys-8-withdrawal-rate/): When projecting how much you should be investing for retirement, your expected rate of return and withdrawal rate in retirement are two of the most important factors of the equation. Dave Ramsey believes it is reasonable to expect 12% returns and withdraw 8% every year in retirement. Is this a solid strategy?
- [Should You Invest in a Roth 401(k) Even if You Are in a High Tax Bracket?](https://moneyguy.com/article/should-you-invest-in-a-roth-401k-even-if-you-are-in-a-high-tax-bracket/): If you are in a high tax bracket, does it ever make sense to make Roth 401(k) contributions? Or is it always better to save on tax now?
- [Should Young People Always Choose High-Deductible Health Insurance?](https://moneyguy.com/article/should-young-people-always-choose-high-deductible-health-insurance/): If you are young and healthy, is there any reason to NOT choose a high-deductible health insurance plan so you have access to an HSA?
- [What Should I Do with an Unwanted Whole Life Policy?](https://moneyguy.com/article/what-should-i-do-with-an-unwanted-whole-life-policy/): Whole life insurance policies may not be the optimal way to protect against risks. What should you do if you have a whole life insurance policy that you’ve paid on for years? Cancel it or keep paying it?
- [Should You Invest More if You Plan to Substantially Increase Your Income?](https://moneyguy.com/article/should-you-invest-more-if-you-plan-to-substantially-increase-your-income/): If you expect your income to increase significantly throughout your career, how should you approach investing for retirement? Is it okay to invest 25% or do you need to be investing more?
- [Is Investing in the Stock Market Really Worth the Risk?](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-investing-in-the-stock-market-really-worth-the-risk/): Investing in the stock market is not risk-free. The market does not go up every year, and some years it goes down significantly. Here’s why we believe investing in the stock market is a risk worth taking.
- [Stock Market vs Real Estate: Where Should Your Wealth be Allocated?](https://moneyguy.com/article/stock-market-vs-real-estate-where-should-your-wealth-be-allocated/): When it comes to wealth, is someone that has most of their wealth in the stock market better than someone with most of their wealth in real estate? Is the stock market a better investment than real estate?
- [Why Investing in Education Can Pose a HUGE Risk!](https://moneyguy.com/article/why-investing-in-education-can-pose-a-huge-risk/): The cost of a college education has increased significantly since 1980, at a much greater rate than inflation. No matter whether you decide college is right for you or turn to alternatives, education is one of the best tools to climb the ladder and move up.
- [Is a Roth IRA a Great Place to House an Emergency Fund?](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-a-roth-ira-a-great-place-to-house-an-emergency-fund/): Is a Roth IRA an appropriate vehicle for an emergency fund? Since you can access basis penalty and tax-free, some advocate for using it as an emergency fund. Learn why Roth IRAs are so powerful and why they might be the perfect next step on your wealth building journey with our Roth IRA Guide.
- [Why Real Estate Investing Isn’t For Everyone…](https://moneyguy.com/article/why-real-estate-investing-isnt-for-everyone/): Real estate investing isn’t for everyone. It is not a passive activity, if you are managing property, and your returns can be impacted by the housing market, the quality of your tenants, the property itself, and much more. Here’s why you might consider investing in real estate anyway. Want to know what to do with your next dollar? You need this free download: the Financial Order of Operations. It’s our nine tried-and-true steps that will help you secure your financial future.
- [How to Start Investing Again After a Bad Investment Experience](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-start-investing-again-after-a-bad-investment-experience/): If you are young and start investing at an inopportune time, it may leave a sour taste in your mouth. How do you get back up on the horse after a bad experience investing? Learn why Roth IRAs are so powerful and why they might be the perfect next step on your wealth building journey with our Roth IRA Guide.
- [What People Don’t Tell You About Being an Entrepreneur…](https://moneyguy.com/article/what-people-dont-tell-you-about-being-an-entrepreneur/): Being an entrepreneur and starting your own business is often seen as glamorous and lucrative. However, most small businesses end up failing in the first 10 years. Here’s when it may make sense to start your own small business.
- [What Does The Money Guy Show Think About HELOCs?](https://moneyguy.com/article/what-does-the-money-guy-show-think-about-helocs/): Are you able to finance home upgrades through a HELOC while still following the Money Guy guidelines? Download our free Home Buying Checklist today!
- [How Can I Diversify When My Compensation Is Tied to the Stock Market?](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-can-i-diversify-when-my-compensation-is-tied-to-the-stock-market/): How should you think about investing if your compensation is tied directly to the stock market? Does it make sense to diversify into other assets such as real estate?
- [Government Pension: Does It Have a Bond-Like Impact on the Portfolio?](https://moneyguy.com/article/government-pension-does-it-have-a-bond-like-impact-on-the-portfolio/): How should you think about a government pension as part of your portfolio? Does it count as a bond and allow you to be more aggressive with the rest of your portfolio?
- [When is a Car Considered a “Luxury” Car?](https://moneyguy.com/article/when-is-a-car-considered-a-luxury-car/): What does the Money Guy consider to be a luxury car and when does a car become luxury? Want to know how to buy a dependable car that won’t break the bank? Check out our Car Buying Checklist. See also, our free Car Affordability Calculator which is based on Money Guy's 20/3/8 rule of thumb.
- [Are Adjustable-Rate Mortgages the Key to Buying a House in 2023?](https://moneyguy.com/article/adjustable-rate-mortgages-2023/): What a strange time for housing. Average 30-year mortgage rates are hovering around 8%, the highest reading since the year 2000. If you don’t remember much about the year 2000, gas was $1.51 a gallon, Faith Hill’s “Breathe” was the Billboard #1 song of the year, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas with Jim Carrey was the highest-grossing movie of the year. Oh, and Enron, Lucent, and Sears were among the biggest companies in the United States. The average first-time homebuyer, age 36, was only 13 years old the last time mortgage rates were this high. They probably weren’t thinking about buying a house back then.
- [Follow These Rules If You Want to Win Financially in the Messy Middle](https://moneyguy.com/article/follow-these-rules-if-you-want-to-win-financially-in-the-messy-middle/): Our Money Guy rules are designed to give you the flexibility and freedom you need without derailing your finances. Especially in the messy middle, following these rules is very important to ensuring you are able to invest 25% of your income for retirement. Watch the full episode called “How to Win Financially in the Messy Middle!”
- [Should You Prioritize Roth Contributions Even with a High Income?](https://moneyguy.com/article/should-you-prioritize-roth-contributions-even-with-a-high-income/): If you’ve been saving in pre-tax accounts your entire working life, you may have little to no Roth assets by the time you retire. Should you prioritize Roth even if you have a high income? Learn why Roth IRAs are so powerful and why they might be the perfect next step on your wealth building journey with our Roth IRA Guide.
- [What is the Messy Middle?](https://moneyguy.com/article/what-is-the-messy-middle/): The Messy Middle is what we call that period in-between high school or college and middle age. It’s when your responsibilities and obligations are many and your time and money are few. You may be purchasing your first home, having children, and getting married in the messy middle. Watch the full episode called "How to Win Financially in the Messy Middle!"
- [Mutual Funds vs. ETFs: What Are the Tax Implications in a Taxable Account?](https://moneyguy.com/article/mutual-funds-vs-etfs-what-are-the-tax-implications-in-a-taxable-account/): ETFs and mutual funds look pretty similar, but they have a few distinct differences. Does it matter if you invest in mutual funds or ETFs in taxable accounts or do they both work the same?
- [The Power of Investing 25%](https://moneyguy.com/article/the-power-of-investing-25/): Not everyone is able to invest 25% for retirement in their 20s, but by the time you are in your 30s you should be aiming to invest 25% of your gross income for retirement. Here’s exactly what investing that 25% can do for you.
- [Is a $1,000 Car Payment Okay If It Doesn’t Break The 20/3/8 Rule?](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-a-1000-car-payment-okay-if-it-doesnt-break-the-20-3-8-rule/): If you are purchasing a car with a payment over $1,000, but can fit it into the 20/3/8 rule, is that still a bad decision?
- [How to Prioritize Your Time in the Messy Middle](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-prioritize-your-time-in-the-messy-middle/): Time is one of your most valuable resources, especially in the messy middle. How you allocate your time between your different responsibilities and obligations can have a big impact on your happiness. Want to know what to do with your next dollar? You need this free download: the Financial Order of Operations. It’s our nine tried-and-true steps that will help you secure your financial future.
- [Should I Participate in My Company’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)?](https://moneyguy.com/article/should-i-participate-in-my-companys-employee-stock-purchase-plan-espp/): Some employers offer employee stock purchase plans which give employees a discount on company stock. Are these worth taking advantage of or is investing in company stock too risky? Want to know what to do with your next dollar? You need this free download: the Financial Order of Operations. It’s our nine tried-and-true steps that will help you secure your financial future.
- [How to Balance Generosity and Investing 25%](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-balance-generosity-and-investing-25/): It can feel difficult to be generous with your money AND invest 25% at the same time. How does one balance generosity while maintaining a healthy savings rate at the same time? Want to know what to do with your next dollar? You need this free download: the Financial Order of Operations. It’s our nine tried-and-true steps that will help you secure your financial future.
- [Is a 5% Student Loan Debt Considered High-Interest? (Pay It Off ASAP?)](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-a-5-student-loan-debt-considered-high-interest-pay-it-off-asap/): If you are in your 40s, how should you think about paying off a student loan with an interest rate over 5%? Does that still count as high-interest in an environment when savings accounts can earn over 5%? Want to know what to do with your next dollar? You need this free download: the Financial Order of Operations. It’s our nine tried-and-true steps that will help you secure your financial future.
- [How to Win Financially in the Messy Middle!](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-win-financially-in-the-messy-middle/): The Messy Middle is what we call that period in-between high school or college and middle age. It’s when your responsibilities and obligations are many and your time and money are few. You may be purchasing your first home, having children, and getting married in the messy middle.
- [70% of Home Buyers Under 30 Receive Financial Help From Their Parents?!](https://moneyguy.com/article/70-of-home-buyers-under-30-receive-financial-help-from-their-parents/): 7 out of 10 home buyers under 30 are getting help from family with the down payment. How should you think about helping your children out, if at all? Want to know what to do with your next dollar? You need this free download: the Financial Order of Operations. It’s our nine tried-and-true steps that will help you secure your financial future.
- [Is a Backdoor Roth Important for Everyone?](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-a-backdoor-roth-important-for-everyone/): If you are over the income limit to contribute to a Roth IRA and have access to an employer-sponsored 401(k) plan, do you even need to worry about contributing to a Roth IRA?
- [Invest 15% vs. 25%: Which Investment Rate Should You Choose?](https://moneyguy.com/article/invest-15-vs-25-which-investment-rate-should-you-choose/): How does the Money Guy rule to invest 20% to 25% of your gross income stack up to other financial influencers that suggest saving much less? For example, Dave Ramsey says to save 15%.
- [We Earn $490,000 a Year! Should We Stop Taking Free Food From Work?](https://moneyguy.com/article/we-earn-490000-a-year-should-we-stop-taking-free-food-from-work/): We earn half a million dollars a year in our 20s, are worth over one million, and invest over 50% of our gross income. However, we enjoy taking free food at work home to save money and time. Are we being too cheap?
- [What’s the Best Account to Save for Your Kid’s College?](https://moneyguy.com/article/whats-the-best-account-to-save-for-your-kids-college/): When it comes to saving for your children, what should you think about when deciding between a taxable brokerage account and an UTMA?
- [How Much Money Should I Invest Into My Business vs Saving For Retirement?](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-much-money-should-i-invest-into-my-business-vs-saving-for-retirement/): If you are starting a small business, how do you decide what to invest in the business and what to invest in traditional investment vehicles like a Roth IRA?
- [The Difference Between Tactical Asset Allocation and Market Timing](https://moneyguy.com/article/the-difference-between-tactical-asset-allocation-and-market-timing/): Timing the market can be a dangerous game to play. What about making larger adjustments to your portfolio based on broader stock market trends?
- [I’m Worried About Keeping Receipts for the Next 25-30 Years for My HSA](https://moneyguy.com/article/im-worried-about-keeping-receipts-for-the-next-25-30-years-for-my-hsa/): Investing money in your HSA and saving it for the future may be an optimal strategy, but it does require you to keep receipts for all reimbursable items. How do you overcome this hurdle? Want to know what to do with your next dollar? You need this free download: the Financial Order of Operations. It’s our nine tried-and-true steps that will help you secure your financial future.
- [What Should I Do With My $12,000 Pay Raise?](https://moneyguy.com/article/what-should-i-do-with-my-12000-pay-raise/): It’s not uncommon to see significant raises or increases in salary early in your career. What should you do with that extra cash flow? Want to know what to do with your next dollar? You need this free download: the Financial Order of Operations. It’s our nine tried-and-true steps that will help you secure your financial future.
- [Is Using a 0% Financing Option Okay for Home Improvement?](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-using-a-0-financing-option-okay-for-home-improvement/): If you have the option to finance, for example, a home repair at 0% interest, should you? Even if you can pay in cash, the interest paid right now on high-yield savings accounts exceeds a 0% interest loan. Want to know what to do with your next dollar? You need this free download: the Financial Order of Operations. It’s our nine tried-and-true steps that will help you secure your financial future.
- [What Should We Do If My Spouse Is on a Different Financial Step?](https://moneyguy.com/article/what-should-we-do-if-my-spouse-is-on-a-different-financial-step/): How do you deal with your spouse being at a different step of the Financial Order of Operations than you? If they are able to maximize their retirement accounts but you are still at Step 5, how do you not feel behind?
- [How to Optimize the Hyper Accumulation Step in the Financial Order of Operations!](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-optimize-the-hyper-accumulation-step-in-the-financial-order-of-operations/): If you have are a middle income American and are able to max out your Roth IRA, HSA, and 401(k), how do you optimize the hyper-accumulation step of the FOO? Or is there any reason to contribute more for retirement?
- [Does It Still Make Sense To Go to College?](https://moneyguy.com/article/does-college-make-sense/): Everyone knows that the cost of college has risen significantly since 1980. While the cost has gone up by a factor of 8.3x, it doesn’t necessarily mean that college is no longer worth it. I wanted to dive into the numbers to see exactly how much extra income you would need to make for college to be worth it financially.
- [How to Get the Best Deal on Your Next Car Purchase!](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-get-the-best-deal-on-your-next-car-purchase/): What is the best way to buy a new or used car? Learn the Money Guy Tips to get the best deal on your new car! Check out our Car Buying Checklist here.
- [Do I Need to Invest $22,500 to Max Out Retirement as a Low Earner?](https://moneyguy.com/article/do-i-need-to-invest-22500-to-max-out-retirement-as-a-low-earner/): If you are not a high earner and are unable to maximize your 401(k), are you ever able to complete step 6 of the Financial Order of Operations or are you stuck there forever?
- [What Should You Do If You Bought a Car the WRONG Way?](https://moneyguy.com/article/what-should-you-do-if-you-bought-a-car-the-wrong-way/): Not everyone buys a car the right way. What should you do if you bought a car the wrong way and it is harming your finances? Sell the car, pay it off as quickly as possible, or something else?
- [How Do I Prioritize Kids’ College vs. Retirement?](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-do-i-prioritize-kids-college-vs-retirement/): How do you balance investing for your child’s college educations vs. saving for your own retirement? Is one more important than the other?
- [Is Tesla a Luxury Car Brand? (Here’s the Truth)](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-tesla-a-luxury-car-brand-heres-the-truth/): With government tax credits, Tesla cars are now more affordable. Does this mean Tesla is no longer a luxury vehicle? How does it stack up against other brands like Honda and Toyota? Check out our 20/3/8 car-buying rule to make sure you are making smart financial decisions when it comes to purchasing a car.
- [Should We Sell Our Current House When Upgrading to a New Home?](https://moneyguy.com/article/should-we-sell-our-current-house-when-upgrading-to-a-new-home/): When you purchase a new house, you have a few different options on what to do with your old house. Should you just sell it and invest the proceeds in your new home? Keep the first home as a rental property? Invest the proceeds from your first home for retirement?
- [How to Make the RIGHT Choice Between Buying a Used or New Car](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-to-make-the-right-choice-between-buying-a-used-or-new-car/): Normally it is financially better to buy a used vehicle instead of new. However, in the unique times we’re in where used cars are appreciating, does this rule still hold up? Or is it better to buy a new car now?
- [Should I Dollar-Cost Average If I’m Close to the Roth IRA Contribution Limit?](https://moneyguy.com/article/should-i-dollar-cost-average-if-im-close-to-the-roth-ira-contribution-limit/): If you don’t know whether or not you will be over the limit to contribute to a Roth IRA, should you dollar cost average until you are sure? Want to know what to do with your next dollar? You need this free download: the Financial Order of Operations. It’s our nine tried-and-true steps that will help you secure your financial future.
- [Is It Okay to NEVER Own a Home?](https://moneyguy.com/article/is-it-okay-to-never-own-a-home/): Is it okay to NEVER own a home? If you move frequently, it may not make sense to buy a home. Is this alright or should everyone eventually become a homeowner?
- [Watch Out for These Pitfalls When Going Full-Time with Your Side Hustle](https://moneyguy.com/article/watch-out-for-these-pitfalls-when-going-full-time-with-your-side-hustle/): If you are looking to take your side hustle full-time, what are some pitfalls and traps you should be thinking about and watching out for? Want to know what to do with your next dollar? You need this free download: the Financial Order of Operations. It’s our nine tried-and-true steps that will help you secure your financial future.
- [I Make $100,000 and Just Bought a $60,000 Truck! (Should I Sell It?)](https://moneyguy.com/article/i-make-100000-and-just-bought-a-60000-truck-should-i-sell-it/): If you didn’t follow our 20/3/8 car-buying rule and now are underwater on your vehicle, what should you do? Does it make sense to sell it and take the hit to get into a cheaper vehicle?
- [Let’s Talk About Your House Purchase Caleb Hammer… (Caleb Hammer Audit)](https://moneyguy.com/article/lets-talk-about-your-house-purchase-caleb-hammer-caleb-hammer-audit/): In this highlight, we discuss all the details when it comes to Caleb Hammer's recent house purchase. Check out our full Caleb Hammer react episode here.
- [Should You Allocate All Your Retirement Funds to the S&P 500?](https://moneyguy.com/article/should-you-allocate-all-your-retirement-funds-to-the-sp-500/): Many younger investors advocate for an all-equity allocation at younger ages. Is this a wise idea or is there value to being diversified even at a young age?
- [Caleb Hammer Gets Called Out on His Ashley Furniture Purchase! (Caleb Hammer Audit)](https://moneyguy.com/article/caleb-hammer-gets-called-out-on-his-ashley-furniture-purchase-caleb-hammer-audit/): Caleb Hammer gets called out on his Ashley Furniture purchase! Check out our full Caleb Hammer react episode here.
- [Who Is the Most Qualified Person to Assist with Estate Planning?](https://moneyguy.com/article/who-is-the-most-qualified-person-to-assist-with-estate-planning/): What should you look for when transitioning to retirement and needing estate planning? A CPA or CFA or someone else entirely?
- [Let’s Play a Game… (Caleb Hammer Audit)](https://moneyguy.com/article/lets-play-a-game-caleb-hammer-audit/): In this highlight, Brian and Bo audit popular financial YouTuber, Caleb Hammer! Check out our full Caleb Hammer react episode here.
- [How Much House Can I Afford With a Variable Income?](https://moneyguy.com/article/how-much-house-can-i-afford-with-a-variable-income/): If your income is variable every year, how do you decide how much money you can spend on housing?
- [Do NOT Do That! (Caleb Hammer Audit)](https://moneyguy.com/article/do-not-do-that-caleb-hammer-audit/): In this highlight, Brian and Bo audit popular financial YouTuber, Caleb Hammer! Check out our full Caleb Hammer react episode here.
- [When Does It Make Sense to Buy Life Insurance?](https://moneyguy.com/article/when-does-it-make-sense-to-buy-life-insurance/): As you get older and buy a house and/or have children, should you be thinking about buying life insurance? If so, which kind should you buy? Want to know what to do with your next dollar? You need this free download: the Financial Order of Operations. It’s our nine tried-and-true steps that will help you secure your financial future.
- [Should You Put Down More Than 3-5% on Your First Home?](https://moneyguy.com/article/should-you-put-down-more-than-3-5-on-your-first-home/): The Financial Order of Operations allows first-time homebuyers to put down 3-5% on your first home. Should you put more down if you have the ability?

## Episodes
- [Average 401(k) Balance By Age (2026 Edition)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/average-401k-balance-by-age-2026-edition/): Curious how your 401(k) stacks up in 2026? We break down the average 401(k) balance by age and share practical tips to build lasting wealth, no matter where you are on your financial journey.
- [This One Decision Determines Your Financial Future](https://moneyguy.com/episode/this-one-decision-determines-your-financial-future/): You can outsave bad returns, but can you out-return a bad savings rate? Bo explains the one single decision that can impact your financial roadmap, whether you are planning to retire early or keep working into your 70s.
- [Are You Making This Massive Mistake With Your Cash?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/are-you-making-this-massive-mistake-with-your-cash/): You know we love emergency funds because they are in two steps of the FOO. But are you making this mistake revealed by recent Bankrate data? Learn practical tips to help you think through your financial roadmap and better prepare for life's curveballs in this live Q&A.
- [Financial Advisors React to the WILDEST Money-Making Schemes](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-the-wildest-money-making-schemes/): Day trading losses, storage unit flips & infinite banking go next level? We react to viral schemes online so you don't fall for them and break down how you can create your financial framework to build real wealth.
- [Should You Buy Or Rent In 2026? (The Numbers SHOCKED Us!)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/should-you-buy-or-rent-in-2026-the-numbers-shocked-us/): Owning a home has long been considered the American dream, but is it smarter to rent in 2026? We share our case study to show the different paths to financial independence so you can build a financial roadmap that provides a better way to do money.
- [5 Signs You’re Doing Well Financially](https://moneyguy.com/episode/5-signs-youre-doing-well-financially/): Does it ever feel like everyone else has more money than you? We reveal the five genuine indicators you're doing well on your financial journey, even if it doesn't feel like it.
- [A Recession is Imminent? Do This Now.](https://moneyguy.com/episode/a-recession-is-imminent-do-this-now/): Goldman Sachs says there's a 30% chance of a recession, but does that number actually mean anything? We dive into the data, explain why the yo-yo always keeps climbing, and share practical tips to build your financial future despite life's unpredictable ups and downs.
- [They Were Burned by a Bad Financial Advisor. Can They Recover?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/they-were-burned-by-a-bad-financial-advisor-can-they-recover/): Can you lose years of investment growth to fraud and still reach your great big beautiful tomorrow? This couple thought they were doing everything right, but they lost years of growth to advisor fraud. Watch now to see how they can rebuild to seven figures and 8 questions to ask before hiring a financial advisor.
- [All of Our Money Rules (And When to Break Them)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/all-of-our-money-rules-and-when-to-break-them/): Rules exist to protect you from making wealth-destroying mistakes, but what happens when following the rules too rigidly actually costs you money? We're breaking down our 12 Money Guy rules and showing you exceptions that could help you make smarter money moves on your financial journey.
- [America’s 5 Biggest Wealth Killers](https://moneyguy.com/episode/americas-5-biggest-wealth-killers/): Are these wealth killers holding you back right now? Bo exposes America's top five wealth killers and how to avoid them so you can build real generational wealth.
- [This 401(k) Trend is ABSOLUTELY DEVASTATING (And Getting Worse)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/this-401k-trend-is-absolutely-devastating-and-getting-worse/): What if one withdrawal decision could cost you tens of thousands in retirement? We reveal Vanguard's alarming data on 401(k) hardship withdrawals and our proactive steps to help you avoid this trap on your wealth-building journey.
- [Financial Advisors React to the BEST and WORST Tax Advice](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-best-and-worst-tax-advice/): Death and taxes, everybody's favorite subjects, right? We react to the internet's best and worst tax advice, and share the important difference between tax avoidance and tax evasion while you are tax planning in 2026.
- [How to Build Wealth with the 3 Bucket Strategy (By Age)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-build-wealth-with-the-3-bucket-strategy-by-age-2/): You won't believe how easy it can be to build wealth with three tax buckets. This episode breaks down the three buckets and how you can use them at each decade to build wealth that lasts.
- [The $1M Mistake Almost Everyone Makes in Their 30s](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-1m-mistake-almost-everyone-makes-in-their-30s/): It's not buying an expensive car or too much house, but it can cost you $1M in retirement. Brian explains a subtle pattern of decisions that are potentially quietly costing you six or even seven figures by retirement.
- [The Playbook to Build Wealth With An Average Income](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-playbook-to-build-wealth-with-an-average-income/): Do you need a six-figure salary to build lasting wealth? We walk through the median household income, share why knowing your number can change everything, and break down the practical steps from our playbook. Plus, our rapid fire (and the mullet) segment is back, and Bo finally answers the checked bag question from last week!
- [Will Their Unique Financial Structure Hold Up?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/will-their-unique-financial-structure-hold-up/): Can two people with completely different money systems build lasting wealth together without sacrificing what makes each system work? We sit down with Nathan and Crissi, a couple in their late 30s facing a critical question: how do you turn an unexpected inheritance, a new business, and competing financial priorities into a unified plan for the future?
- [HELP! I’m Financially Responsible But It’s SO Boring](https://moneyguy.com/episode/help-im-financially-responsible-but-its-so-boring/): Doing all the right things with money, but it just feels... boring? Learn our four tips to help you stay motivated through steps six and seven of the Financial Order of Operations so you can take control of your financial future.
- [How Much Do You REALLY Need To Retire?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-much-do-you-really-need-to-retire/): Think $1 million is enough to retire? Bo reveals what that number actually buys you, and how Social Security and inflation can change everything.
- [Do This Today If You Want a Successful Retirement](https://moneyguy.com/episode/do-this-today-if-you-want-a-successful-retirement/): Could the biggest factors in a fulfilling retirement have less to do with your savings than you think? We break down the mindset shifts, habits, and financial decisions that could shape the difference between scraping by and thriving, so you can start building your roadmap today.
- [Financial Advisors React to RIDICULOUS Money Clips](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-ridiculous-money-clips/): We react to the internet's wildest financial takes, from gas tank wealth hacks to meme stock luck and Rolex investments, separating ridiculous advice from a better way to do money.
- [How to Become A Millionaire (By Age)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-become-a-millionaire-by-age-2/): The math to be a millionaire may be more achievable than you think, but it changes dramatically based on your age. Whether you are starting from zero or checking your progress, we share the path to build your great big beautiful tomorrow.
- [The Best Assets To Hold In Each Account](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-best-assets-to-hold-in-each-account/): Are your investments in the right accounts? We explain the three types of investment accounts, which assets should live where to maximize tax efficiency, and why where you invest can be just as important as what you invest in.
- [The BEST and WORST Cars for Financial Mutants (And Which Brands They Avoid)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-best-and-worst-cars-for-financial-mutants-and-which-brands-they-avoid/): Are you financing too much car? We break down the 20/3/8 rule, reveal which car brands pass our Money Guy test for dependability and value, and explain when buying too cheap can actually cost your army of dollar bills more than buying too expensive.
- [The $75K Lesson That Changed Their Financial Future](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-75k-lesson-that-changed-their-financial-future/): Jonah and Caroline earn $420,000 and built an $820,000 net worth by age 29, but they're carrying a $49,000 401(k) loan, recovering from a $75,000 home-buying mistake, and only saving 8% despite an 18% employer match. We help them rebuild their emergency fund, execute backdoor Roth contributions, restructure their savings rate from 8% to 25%, and discover why being income-rich doesn't mean you're wealthy. Could your income be outpacing your financial discipline?
- [The Wealth Building Plan that Could Change Your Life](https://moneyguy.com/episode/wealth-building-plan-that-could-change-your-life/): Does the Financial Order of Operations really work in every situation? Meet FOO Following Freddie, our hypothetical case study showing how the Financial Order of Operations as a real-world wealth-building framework, even when life gets messy.
- [Average Income By Age in 2026](https://moneyguy.com/episode/average-income-by-age-in-2026/): How does your income compare to others your age? Bo reveals income by age: 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s, with key wealth-building actions for each decade.
- [The Insane Math Behind Investing For Your Children (Use a Trump Account?)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-math-behind-investing-for-your-children/): We compare four investment accounts for your children and answer a question we have seen in our comments and DMs: Should you use a Trump Account? Plus, we share about our Discord server in this Live Q&A!
- [Financial Advisors React to Their FAVORITE Finance Creators](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-their-favorite-finance-creators/): Watch us react to our favorite finance creators giving their take on hot-button topics.
- [Why Some People Become Rich, But Most Don’t](https://moneyguy.com/episode/why-some-people-become-rich-but-most-dont/): Why do some people get rich, and others don't? We compare Average Allen vs Manny across decades, and the math is brutal. Find out which decisions make the biggest impact on your financial roadmap to independence.
- [The Passive Income Myth](https://moneyguy.com/episode/advisors-explain-the-passive-income-myth/): Is passive income really passive? We explain 3 common passive income myths and share our preferred strategy that helps you measure twice and cut once.
- [X% of Young Americans Expect To NEVER Retire…](https://moneyguy.com/episode/x-of-young-americans-expect-to-never-retire/): Are you a Gen Z or Millennial discouraged about retirement? Discover how the vast majority of millionaires got there as regular savers, plus our new resource announcement during our Live Q&A!
- [The Truth About Rental Properties (Is It Passive Income?)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-they-turned-real-estate-into-wealth/): Think your rental barely breaks even? We reveal the shocking math when this couple asks if they should sell their duplex to reclaim their time while reshaping their path to financial independence.
- [3 Big 401(k) Updates That Could Impact Your Future](https://moneyguy.com/episode/3-big-401k-updates-that-could-impact-your-future/): Big changes are coming to 401(k)s! And, 595K hit 401(k) millionaire status in Q2 2025, but 41% cash out when changing jobs. Watch now to find out how to avoid tax bombs in 2026.
- [In your 30s with $300k? Do these 3 things.](https://moneyguy.com/episode/in-your-30s-with-300k-do-these-three-things/): If you're between 27 and 43 with six figures invested, you're in the often-overlooked "messy middle" between reaching your first $100,000 and retirement. Bo breaks down three crucial wealth tips for this stage to help keep you on the straight path to financial independence.
- [Don’t Fall For These Market Trends with Austin Hankwitz ​](https://moneyguy.com/episode/dont-fall-for-these-market-trends-with-austin-hankwitz/): Austin Hankwitz joins us for News or Noise, shares his core satellite investing strategy, and breaks down why 24-year-olds don't need fancy apartments in this live Q&A!
- [Financial Advisors React to Money Advice on TikTok & YouTube](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-money-advice-on-tiktok-youtube/): We're back with more reacting to internet chaos! From sharing our take on clearance shopping to Starbucks economies, this episode will equip you with the framework to discern good financial advice from questionable.
- [Tax Tips To Beat The IRS By Age (Legally!)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/tax-tips-to-beat-the-irs-by-age-legally/): Tax evasion? No way! Legal tax avoidance? Here's why we say, "Okay!" Legal tax avoidance is encouraged, but the playbook changes each decade. Learn age-specific tactics that could save you over $1 million in lifetime taxes.
- [The Math To Reach CoastFIRE In Every Decade](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-math-to-reach-coastfire-in-every-decade/): What if you never had to save another penny for retirement? That's the idea behind CoastFIRE: save aggressively early until hitting a specific portfolio value, then let your investments grow on their own until retirement. We break down the math on reaching CoastFIRE in every decade.
- [Vanguard Predicts Market Collapse in 2026 (Are They Right?)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/vanguard-predicts-market-collapse-in-2026/): Should you panic over Vanguard's 2026 predictions? We break down 529s vs. brokerages, if Bo can swim, ESOP myths + rapid fire with a countdown timer in this Live Q&A!
- [What It’s Really Like Planning for the Future When Tomorrow Isn’t Guaranteed](https://moneyguy.com/episode/planning-for-the-future-when-tomorrow-isnt-guaranteed/): This 28-year-old-couple built a $443K net worth but won't spend anything. Learn how we reveal they're on track and can enjoy life today without sacrificing tomorrow.
- [The Truth About FIRE: 5 Strategies to Achieve Financial Independence](https://moneyguy.com/episode/5-fire-strategies-for-financial-independence/): Lean FIRE, Fat FIRE, Coast FIRE, BaristaFI, or FINE? Break down the math & mindset behind 5 early retirement strategies to find your path to financial independence.
- [BIG 401(k) Changes Coming in 2026 — What You Need To Know](https://moneyguy.com/episode/explain-big-401k-changes-coming-in-2026/): We explain massive 401(k) changes for 2026: limits increase to $24.5K, high earners face mandatory Roth catch-ups & alternative investments. Do you know your options?
- [Is it Impossible to Build Wealth in Your State? (Ranked)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/is-it-impossible-to-build-wealth-in-your-state/): No two states cost the same, but what is yours costing you? We share the average cost of living and expand our rules so you can build your great big beautiful tomorrow.
- [Financial Advisors React to CRAZY Money Advice](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-crazy-money-advice/): We react to internet chaos: raiding 401(k)s for houses, "free" Rolls-Royces, emergency fund wins & why understanding half-truths helps you master your money mindset.
- [How To Pull The Levers of Wealth Creation (By Age)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-pull-the-wealth-creation-levers-by-age/): Two levers control your wealth: income and expenses. Discover age-specific strategies for your 20s through 50s+ to maximize margin and build your army of dollar bills.
- [The Most Controversial Topics in Personal Finance (and What We Think)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/our-personal-finance-controversial-topics/): In this episode, we explain spicy finance topics: dividend tax investing, 8% withdrawal rates & why VOO-for-life might overestimate risk tolerance.
- [Your 401(k) Might Be Costing You Thousands](https://moneyguy.com/episode/your-401k-might-be-costing-you-thousands/): Hidden 401k fees could cost you hundreds of thousands. Learn how to advocate for better options, plus our new rapid-fire segment debuts in this live Q&A!
- [This 22 Year Old Needs a Complete Financial Reset](https://moneyguy.com/episode/22-year-old-needs-a-complete-financial-reset/): Peter is a young hustler with a passion for country music, but he needs a financial reset. Learn why optimizing the power of time can help Peter become a millionaire by 40.
- [How To Get Rich and Stay Rich in 2026 (By Age)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-get-rich-and-stay-rich-in-2026/): Want to get rich and stay rich in 2026? Learn our age-specific tips to avoid common traps and hit net worth goals for your great big beautiful tomorrow.
- [Choosing An Asset Allocation (How Much Is Stocks vs. Bonds?)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/learning-and-choosing-an-asset-allocation/): Financial advisors explain the 3 components of risk: behavioral tolerance, capacity & need. Plus, learn the difference between compensated and uncompensated risk.
- [What They Don’t Tell You About FIRE with Andy Hill](https://moneyguy.com/episode/what-they-dont-tell-you-about-fire-andy-hill/): Is Coast FIRE right for you? Special guest Andy Hill explains how $500k at 40 became financial freedom at 44. We also debate FIRE rules and answer your questions in this Live Q&A!
- [Financial Advisors React to Incredible Money Clips](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-incredible-money-clips/): In this episode, we react to internet chaos: Dave Ramsey parodies, $85K credit card debt, car dealership horrors & more. Be careful what you listen to online!
- [9 Micro Habits to Completely Change Your Finances](https://moneyguy.com/episode/9-micro-habits-to-change-your-finances/): Learn how to master these 9 micro habits in 2026: negotiate prices, do net worth statements, pay yourself first, bedazzle basic life & give generously. Watch this episode to start today!
- [If I Had To Start Over Investing in 2026, I’d Do This.](https://moneyguy.com/episode/id-do-this-when-investing-in-2026/): Starting to invest? We explain compound growth, index funds, the 3 tax buckets, & how to automate everything to maximize your army of dollar bills.
- [Has the Stock Market Hit the Top?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/has-the-stock-market-hit-the-top-in-2026/): Has the stock market hit the top? We zoom out for perspective on long-term investing success and answer your financial planning questions in this live Q&A.
- [Their Single Income Plan Needs Some Help](https://moneyguy.com/episode/their-single-income-plan-needs-some-help/): Young parents crushed $100K debt and built $86K net worth. Now with one income, will a Tacoma be the solution for their growing family?
- [5 Levels of Wealth AND How to Achieve Them (2026 Edition)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-achieve-5-levels-of-wealth-2026/): In this episode, discover the 5 levels of wealth from stability to abundance. Learn which level you're at, what mindset shifts you need, and how to level up your financial journey.
- [This New Money Trend TERRIFIES Us](https://moneyguy.com/episode/episode-this-new-money-trend-terrifies-us/): Robinhood's sports betting feature dangerously blurs gambling and investing. In this live Q&A, we explain the differences and debate if there's no place like home...on a beautiful houseboat!
- [Financial Advisors React to WILD Money Clips](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-wild-money-clips/): We react to viral money content: $89K Porsches, financial astrology, 401(k) myths & NFL money reality. Internet finance at its wildest!
- [Average Net Worth By Age! (2026 Edition)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/net-worth-by-age-targets-and-benchmarks/): Learn net worth targets by age and research-backed strategies for your 20s through 50s in 2026. Find out if you're ahead or behind your financial independence goals.
- [Bitcoin, Gold, and Stocks: Where Is The Real Risk?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/explain-real-risk-of-bitcoin-gold-and-stocks/): We explain why bitcoin & gold store value, while stocks create it. We break down the differences in how these assets work & why it matters for your portfolio.
- [Best and Worst States for Saving a Down Payment on a Home](https://moneyguy.com/episode/best-and-worst-states-for-house-down-payment/): A recent study claims saving for a home takes decades, but our 3/5/25 rule slashes that timeline. Plus live Q&A on net worth, Roth, and celebrating 20 years!
- [Her Coast FIRE Plan Has Some MAJOR Holes: Finding Balance Between FIRE and Burnout](https://moneyguy.com/episode/coast-fire-plan-has-some-major-holes/): Self-employed interpreter Danielle might be taking her foot off the gas way too early. We break down why finding balance between FIRE and burnout can help her master her money mindset.
- [5 Biggest Mistakes People Make When They Start Investing](https://moneyguy.com/episode/5-biggest-mistakes-people-make-when-investing/): These 5 investing mistakes might be costing you wealth. In this episode, learn the power of starting early, index funds, and tax-advantaged accounts for building your army of dollar bills.
- [The Scary Truth About The AI Bubble](https://moneyguy.com/episode/explain-scary-truth-about-the-ai-bubble/): Is the AI bubble real? We explain the break down the Nvidia-OpenAI panic, dotcom comparisons & why diversification can help shape your portfolio while you master your money mindset.
- [The Average American Needs HOW MUCH to Feel Comfortable in 2026?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/average-income-to-feel-comfortable-in-2026/): How much income do you really need to be comfortable? We challenge this study claims and show you what's actually in your control during our Live Q&A.
- [Financial Advisors React to Financial Advice on YouTube!](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-financial-advice3/): In this episode, we react to financial YouTubers on market timing, wealth-building mistakes, retirement strategy & millionaire next door habits.
- [64% of Americans Are Stuck Here Financially (Are You?)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/64-of-americans-are-stuck-financially-are-you/): 64% of Americans lack a financial plan. In this episode, discover where you stand with the Financial Order of Operations and how you can level up your money game.
- [How To Go From $0 To $100,000 In 2026 (& Beyond)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-get-to-100000-in-2026-beyond/): Why $100K changes everything: We break down the math showing how compound interest can accelerate wealth building after this magic milestone.
- [The Truth About Early Retirement: What You Need To Know](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-truth-about-early-retirement-what-to-know/): Do you want to retire early? In this festive live Q&A, we reveal why adjusting withdrawal rates can be what you need to build your great big beautiful tomorrow. Plus, we give insights for cash vs investment strategy & market timing myths.
- [Saving vs. Spending: Military Couple has an Honest Conversation About Money](https://moneyguy.com/episode/most-honest-conversation-about-money-you-hear/): 29-year-old military family learns they're way ahead financially despite marriage tension. Does a pension change everything? This episode breaks down balancing future savings and present joy.
- [The 5 Secrets We’ve Learned in 50 Years of Financial Planning](https://moneyguy.com/episode/5-secrets-in-50-years-of-financial-planning/): In this episode, we share 5 wealth secrets from advisors who've managed money for 50 years. Your income might matter less than you think. What if we told you discipline matters more?
- [The First Rule of Investing Is A Total Lie](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-first-rule-of-investing-is-a-lie/): "Buy low, sell high" sounds smart but costs millions. We reveal why market timing fails & the "always be buying" strategy can actually work.
- [Money Trends By Generation (Where Do You Stack Up?)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/money-trends-by-generation-where-do-you-land/): According to a YouGov study, Gen Z sees more generational wealth opportunities than ever. In this live Q&A episode, discover why stock market investing might beat entrepreneurship and more educational tips that can help you master your money mindset.
- [Financial Advisors React to Funny Money Videos](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-funny-money-videos/): We react to financial advice online, from TikTok scams to confusing jargon. Not everything online is true or helpful!
- [4 Financial Rules Designed To Keep You BROKE (and what you need to know)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/4-rules-keep-you-broke-and-what-to-know/): This episode breaks down these 4 financial rules: buy low/sell high, save 10-15%, live debt-free, 20% down on homes. We show you another way you can do money with data-backed strategies.
- [Does the American Dream Really Cost $5 Million? Breaking Down the Numbers](https://moneyguy.com/episode/american-dream-cost-5-million-discussion/): Does the American dream cost $5M? We explain why this number is misleading & how your lifestyle choices can change everything about retirement planning.
- [The Most Underrated Investment Account in 2026](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-most-underrated-investment-account-2026/): HSAs offer quadruple tax advantages but only 10% of Americans use them. Learn 2026 limits, investment strategies & new site search features along with our Q&A.
- [How to Build Wealth With A Negative Net Worth](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-build-wealth-with-a-negative-net-worth/): Young couple balancing $110K student loans, house buying & retirement savings. Learn how you can prioritize debt payoff vs investing in your 20s & 30s.
- [Average Debt by Age! (How Do You Compare Against Other Americans?)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/average-american-debt-by-generation/): Break down debt by generation: student loans, auto loans, mortgages, credit cards. Learn the rules to avoid becoming a statistic.
- [The #1 Way To Supercharge Your Wealth (By Age)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/best-wealth-building-tips-by-age/): Financial advisors explain wealth tips for every age: start early in your 20s, manage debt in your 30s, stay disciplined in your 40s-50s, live your why in 60s.
- [The ONE Financial Tool That Will Transform Your Year-End (Works at Any Income!)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-tool-transforms-year-end-income/): Your net worth statement is an ultimate financial tool for any age. Learn how to use it plus Q&A on investing, debt, and tax buckets during this Ask Money Guy episode.
- [Financial Advisors React to INSANE Money Clips](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-insane-money-clips/): Financial advisors react to insane money decisions: $1,400 car payments, gambling strategies, and why these schemes are questionable.
- [The Truth About Building Wealth in Your 20s](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-truth-about-building-wealth-in-your-20s/): Essential financial strategies for 20-somethings: Learn to avoid debt traps and harness time to build long-term wealth.
- [5 Levels of Wealth in 5 Minutes](https://moneyguy.com/episode/5-levels-of-wealth-in-5-minutes/): The 5 levels of wealth explained: Learn where you stand and what steps to consider to move toward financial independence.
- [The #1 Financial Fear Plaguing Gen X & Gen Z (And How to Address It)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-1-financial-fear-plaguing-gen-x-gen-z/): Gen X and Gen Z share common financial concerns, but we believe that feeling unprepared doesn't mean you can't take actionable net steps. Learn educational strategies to consider for your financial future, plus, we answer your financial questions.
- [How to Adapt When Your Income is Cut In Half](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-adapt-when-your-income-is-cut-in-half/): Public defender Rachel navigates post-divorce finances. In this episode, we discuss Iowa pension analysis, mortgage prepayment math, balancing philanthropy with retirement goals.
- [3 Signs Your Friends Are Secretly Broke (By Age)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/3-signs-your-friends-are-broke-by-age/): The secretly rich aren't posting about their wealth, they're quietly building it. This episode will show you exactly how to join them, no matter what decade you're in. Because the best time to start building real wealth was yesterday. The second best time is right now.
- [REVEALED: The Median Salary By State in 2025](https://moneyguy.com/episode/revealed-the-median-salary-by-state-in-2025/): If you think you know the richest states in America, think again. I've been a financial adviser and an accountant for 30 plus years and have helped thousands of people make sense of their money.
- [Tax Updates You Can’t Afford to Miss](https://moneyguy.com/episode/tax-updates-you-cant-afford-to-miss/): The IRS has released the official 2026 tax and contribution updates, and they bring major opportunities for retirement savers and tax-efficient planners. Learn how upcoming changes to 401(k), IRA, HSA, and SIMPLE limits (along with bracket shifts, SALT expansion, and new deductions) will impact your financial strategy next year.
- [Financial Advisors React to Money Advice with Humphrey Yang](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-money-advice-with-humphrey-yang/): Big claims meet real math. With Humphrey Yang, we break down the “lower your bracket” fantasy, the true rent-vs-buy decision, how ETF overlap quietly bloats portfolios, and why dollar-cost averaging outperforms market timing. Straight talk, clear frameworks, and takeaways you can implement this week.
- [11 Money Rules You NEED to Become a Millionaire](https://moneyguy.com/episode/11-money-rules-you-need-to-become-a-millionaire/): This episode compiles the most powerful financial rules we have ever shared, from tackling debt to investing confidently. Discover how to simplify your money decisions and stay on the path to financial freedom.
- [5 Signs Someone Is Secretly Wealthy](https://moneyguy.com/episode/5-signs-someone-is-secretly-wealthy/): A lot of folks think you can spot wealthy people from a mile away—flashy watches, designer clothes, or brand-new luxury cars. But are those really the richest people around us?
- [Experts Predict MASSIVE Stock Market Drop (Should You Sell?)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/experts-predict-massive-stock-market-drop-should-you-sell/): Scary headlines are constant; your plan should be too. We break down how to invest through uncertainty (FOO, diversification, and “Always Be Buying”)then tackle live questions on Roth timing, 15- vs 30-year mortgages (and the 50-year debate), totaled cars, high-cost-area retirements, and urgent home repairs.
- [How She Built $380k by 38 (Without a Six-Figure Job)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-she-built-380k-by-38-without-a-six-figure-job/): Rachael thought she might not be saving enough, until we showed her she’s ahead of the curve. In this heartfelt episode, we discuss how to strike the right balance between preparing for tomorrow and enjoying life now.
- [Are You Richer Than Your Friends? (2025 Edition)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/are-you-richer-than-your-friends-2025-edition/): How do your money numbers compare? We share fresh survey results across income and investable net worth, then give you age-specific mile markers and the simple behaviors (saving rate, credit cards, cars, and cash) that separate average from abundance.
- [Do THIS When You Get Paid! Financial Advisor Payday Routine](https://moneyguy.com/episode/do-this-when-you-get-paid-financial-advisor-payday-routine/): I've been a financial advisor for almost—it's hard to believe I'm saying this—30 years. And so many of the questions we get boil down to, I have this money now. What do I do with it?
- [BREAKING: The Median Net Worth In America Is…](https://moneyguy.com/episode/breaking-the-median-net-worth-in-america-is/): Most Americans’ wealth is tied up in home equity, leaving them cash-poor and unprepared for retirement. This episode unpacks what the $193K median net worth really means and how financial mutants can rise above average through smart saving, consistent investing, and intentional planning.
- [Confronting Humphrey Yang About ‘Diary of a CEO’ – Financial Advisors React](https://moneyguy.com/episode/confronting-humphrey-yang-about-diary-of-a-ceo-financial-advisors-react/): Brian and Bo react to Humphrey Yang’s Diary of a CEO appearance, diving into crypto hype, passive income myths, and how to build wealth without speculation.
- [The Truth About Building Wealth in Your 30s](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-truth-about-building-wealth-in-your-30s/): The 30s can feel like a financial whirlwind - careers, families, and responsibilities all competing for your time and money. In this episode, Brian and Bo share how to master your “messy middle” decade by investing smart, protecting yourself from risk, and balancing growth with gratitude. Discover how to make your 30s your most powerful wealth-building years yet.
- [Should You Buy or Rent in 2025? (The Numbers Will Shock You)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/should-you-buy-or-rent-in-2025-the-numbers-will-shock-you/): 244% — that’s the increase in the median sales price of homes sold since 1990, according to the most recent FRED data. It makes you wonder if buying a house is even worth it for most folks with the state of the current housing market.
- [America’s Saving At An All-Time High. Are You Keeping Up?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/americas-saving-at-an-all-time-high-are-you-keeping-up/): The latest Vanguard How America Saves study reveals record-breaking savings behavior across America. We unpack what’s behind the rise in 401(k) participation, Roth adoption, and automatic enrollment - plus actionable takeaways to help you build wealth like a financial mutant.
- [The Truth About FIRE: Is $2M at 40 Enough?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/emily-and-kenji/): From food banks to $2M by their mid-30s, Emily and Kenji want freedom by 40. We stress-test their CoastFIRE plan, expose the bridge-account blind spot, and show the solo 401(k) + backdoor Roth moves that make the numbers work at 40 and still work at 60+.
- [How to Be Wealthy By Age (2025)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-be-wealthy-by-age-2025/): What does it mean to be truly wealthy in 2025? We break down how to build and measure wealth through every decade of life - not just in dollars, but in time, freedom, and fulfillment.
- [There Are 5 Stages of Wealth Building: Where Are You Financially?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/there-are-5-stages-of-wealth-building-where-are-you-financially/): Net worth targets and hard numbers are definitely useful. As you know, we use them all the time on this channel, but they aren't really tailored to your situation. That's why today we're looking at five stages of building wealth that are adaptable to your unique financial situation.
- [How 595,000 People Reached MILLIONAIRE Status (And How You Can Too)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-595000-people-reached-millionaire-status-and-how-you-can-too/): Millions dream of joining the two-comma club, but 595,000 people just did it - all through their 401(k). We reveal why the 401(k) is the ultimate wealth builder, how to make the most of employer matches and auto-enrollment, and what the three ingredients of wealth can teach you about long-term success.
- [Financial Advisors React to Financial Advice on YouTube!](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-financial-advice-on-youtube-2/): Crushing car payments? Cash just sitting? This react shows how to move from saver to investor with Roth IRAs, index funds, and “always be buying” - so your money buys freedom, not just stuff.
- [10 Things to Do Before 2025 Ends](https://moneyguy.com/episode/10-things-to-do-before-2025-ends/): Finish the year strong! We share 10 crucial financial steps to take before 2025 ends - from maximizing tax-free growth to tackling debt, funding your goals, and preparing for a prosperous 2026.
- [The State of the Economy in 2025: The Market, Inflation, and More!](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-state-of-the-economy-in-2025-the-market-inflation-and-more/): The financial landscape in the United States has undergone some big changes this year, and I am so excited to talk about them. There’s been sweeping new policy and some general market craziness, and it’s made for a year of ups and downs.
- [How Humphrey Yang Built His Wealth](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-humphrey-yang-built-his-wealth/): Humphrey Yang shares how he built wealth by swapping emotion for data: automate early, use broad index funds, embrace glide paths, and stop letting one stock run your life. We also cover rebalancing, charitable gifting with appreciated stock, and how to invest well without “oversaving” your 20s.
- [This 22-Year-Old Needs a Reality Check…](https://moneyguy.com/episode/cyrus/): A 22-year-old filmmaker sets his sights on a million-dollar net worth by 30, but is that goal helping or hurting his progress? We break down the math, reveal the hidden risks, and show how young entrepreneurs can build lasting wealth without burning out.
- [We asked 25,000 Americans How They Manage Money. Here’s What They Said.](https://moneyguy.com/episode/we-asked-25000-americans-how-they-manage-money-heres-what-they-said/): The 2025 Financial Mutant Survey results are in! 25,000 Financial Mutants shared their financial lives with us, revealing what sets them apart from the average American. Learn how they save, invest, spend, and think differently to build lasting wealth.
- [5 Reasons You Don’t Feel Rich (Even If You Are)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/5-reasons-you-dont-feel-rich-even-if-you-are/): Charles Schwab's 2025 Modern Wealth Survey is here, and they found that Americans need, on average, a net worth of $2.3 million to feel wealthy. Eighty-nine percent of Americans do not consider themselves wealthy, according to Fidelity’s State of Wealth Mobility.
- [Why $250k is Halfway to $1 Million](https://moneyguy.com/episode/why-250k-is-halfway-to-1-million/): Think $500,000 is halfway to $1 million? Think again. We reveal why $250,000 marks the real halfway point thanks to the power of compound interest. We also tackle audience questions about Coast FI, sinking funds, and finding balance in the messy middle.
- [Financial Advisors React to GOOFY Financial Advice](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-goofy-financial-advice/): The internet is full of bad financial advice,but what actually works? We react to some of the worst money tips we’ve ever heard, from ‘borrow forever’ strategies to the myth of skipping your 401(k). Tune in to learn what NOT to do, and the real steps to build wealth the smart way.
- [Top 10 Mind-Blowing Money Stats (2025)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/top-10-mind-blowing-money-stats-2025/): Discover the 10 most shocking money stats of 2025. From the rise of Buy Now, Pay Later debt to the reality of delayed homeownership, Brian and Bo break down what these numbers mean for your wallet and your financial future.
- [The Major MONEY Milestones To Hit By EVERY Decade!](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-major-money-milestones-to-hit-by-every-decade/): By the time you reach financial independence, you should have around 20 times your income invested. But how do you actually get there? While everyone's financial journey differs, each decade comes with key milestones worth targeting.
- [How Student Loans Are Crippling Americans (& What They’re Doing About It)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-student-loans-are-crippling-americans-what-theyre-doing-about-it/): Student loans are changing how young Americans launch. We show you how to slash the cost of a degree (scholarships, test-prep boosts, community college, and in-state advantages) while keeping career ROI front and center. Plus, a rapid Q&A on FOO steps, car rules, right-sized emergency funds, and second-home down payments.
- [The Truth About $250,000 Saved by 42](https://moneyguy.com/episode/dan-and-sorcha/): They didn’t “figure it out” in their 20s. Between layoffs, three kids, and cross-country moves, this family used frugal habits to pay off debt, save ~30% of their income, and design a college plan that cuts costs in half - all while mapping a values-first move to the PNW. Steal the steps and the math.
- [Our Top 10 Home Buying Tips for 2025](https://moneyguy.com/episode/our-top-10-home-buying-tips-for-2025/): Buying a home shouldn’t feel like a leap of faith. This episode gives you a clear roadmap: define your “why,” assemble the right team, secure true pre-approval, run a full budget, find assistance programs, and avoid the easy-to-miss mistakes that derail closings. Get the checklist that turns browsing into confident buying.
- [The Truth About The Index Fund Bubble: Is Your Money In Danger?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-truth-about-the-index-fund-bubble-is-your-money-in-danger/): In 2019, Michael Burry, who was played by Christian Bale in The Big Short, claimed that index funds were in a bubble with prices exceeding their underlying value. He compared them to CDOs, which contributed significantly to the 2008 financial crisis.
- [BREAKING: What You NEED To Know About The Fed Meeting](https://moneyguy.com/episode/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-fed-meeting/): The Federal Reserve’s latest interest rate cut has everyone asking: what does this mean for my money? In this episode, we break down how rate changes affect investors, homeowners, and savers - plus practical steps you can take right now to keep your plan on track.
- [Financial Advisors React To INSANE Dave Ramsey Calls!](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-insane-dave-ramsey-calls/): Watch us listen to some interesting calls into Ramsey Studios - from outrageous debts to credit cards to investing. Not only will you hear our instant reactions, but you'll learn if we agree, disagree, or anything in between.
- [How to Master Your Money in 9 Steps](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-master-your-money-in-9-steps/): Discover the Financial Order of Operations - a straightforward nine-step guide for what to do with your next dollar. Learn how to protect against emergencies, capture free employer money, eliminate high-interest debt, maximize tax-free growth, reach a 25% savings rate, and decide when paying off low-interest debt makes sense.
- [Student Loans are BANKRUPTING Young Americans](https://moneyguy.com/episode/student-loans-are-bankrupting-young-americans/): Student loan debt has become one of the most significant financial hurdles facing young Americans today. The student loan problem has reached epidemic proportions. A surge in past-due student loans is sparking new concerns about the health of the U.S. economy.
- [This One Expense Is Breaking People’s Retirement](https://moneyguy.com/episode/this-one-expense-is-breaking-peoples-retirement/): A 65-year-old retiring in 2025 can expect to spend an average of $172,500 in health care and medical expenses throughout retirement. We walk you through our thoughts on Fidelity's study, then answer your financial questions!
- [This Real Estate Nightmare Could Derail Their Financial Freedom](https://moneyguy.com/episode/this-real-estate-nightmare-could-derail-their-financial-freedom/): This 27-year-old couple has built a $200K net worth and dived into real estate, but with two mortgages and a vacant rental, they’re facing the real trade-offs between financial freedom, family planning, and future goals. Hear how they navigate competing priorities - and what lessons you can take away for your own journey.
- [Master Your Finances In 35 Minutes](https://moneyguy.com/episode/master-your-finances-in-35-minutes/): Debt rules that prevent traps, spending upgrades that create margin, and a simple investing plan you can stick with. We show you how to save 25%, pick target-date index funds, and calculate your FI number - so money becomes a tool, not a stressor.
- [What Income Puts You In The Top 10% of Americans? (CRAZY Stats)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/what-income-puts-you-in-the-top-10-of-americans-crazy-stats/): When people think about wealth in America, they often fixate on income as the most important metric. Our minds immediately conjure images of celebrities, professional athletes, and business moguls raking in millions of dollars annually.
- [The Biggest Financial Problem Facing Americans Today](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-biggest-financial-problem-facing-americans-today/): We're covering survey data from Gallup! From housing costs to inflation to low wages, see how these problems stack up to one another and our tips to combat each. After that, we answer your financial questions!
- [Financial Advisors React To Money YouTubers (Part 4)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-money-youtubers-part-4/): We react to some of our favorite financial YouTubers and uncover timeless lessons for building wealth. Learn why owning multiple ETFs may not mean diversification, why the S&P 500 isn’t the whole market, and how automation can make wealth-building nearly effortless. We even hear a Roth IRA explained in “dog language.”
- [We asked 1,000 millionaires how they got rich. Here’s what they said.](https://moneyguy.com/episode/we-asked-1000-millionaires-how-they-got-rich-heres-what-they-said/): Think you know what the wealthy do? Our survey of Abound Wealth clients reveals the real playbook: a $2.2M median net worth, disciplined 25%+ savings, smart car and home decisions. See how your habits stack up and what to change next.
- [38 Money Lessons I’ve Learned in 38 Years](https://moneyguy.com/episode/38-money-lessons/): I am turning 38 this year. In fact, by the time you watch this, I will have just turned 38. But despite that, I am still so excited to share these money lessons that I've learned with you all. These are little tidbits of financial knowledge, and even a few actual stories from my own experience, that you can hopefully take away as you start or continue on your wealth-building journey.
- [Are You Doing Better Than the Average American?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/are-you-doing-better-than-the-average-american-2/): Are you ahead of the curve, behind, or measuring by the wrong standard? We share the latest data on median American finances, reveal how financial mutants truly compare, and answer your burning money questions. Plus, take part in our annual survey to help shape upcoming episodes.
- [What It’s REALLY Like to Build Wealth in the Military](https://moneyguy.com/episode/what-its-really-like-to-build-wealth-in-the-military/): Fifteen years ago, they couldn’t pay their bills. Today, they’re worth $4 million. Discover how a military family combined discipline, real estate investing, and a 50% savings rate to transform their future.
- [X% of Americans Will NEVER Retire… (featuring Erin Talks Money)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/x-of-americans-will-never-retire-featuring-erin-talks-money/): Nearly 70% of Americans doubt they’ll ever retire. With Erin from Erin Talks Money, we unpack what JP Morgan’s study of 5 million retirees reveals about the habits that actually lead to retirement success. From saving early to staying consistent and living with purpose, learn the key takeaways to secure your financial future.
- [We need to talk about the Hank Green AI Video…](https://moneyguy.com/episode/we-need-to-talk-about-the-hank-green-ai-video/): Hank Green released a video titled, “I’m changing how I manage my money because of AI.” It reached over a million views in a week, and many of you asked us for our thoughts. Well, we do have thoughts—and I’m excited to share them. Let’s dive in.
- [Paying too much for housing? Watch this.](https://moneyguy.com/episode/paying-too-much-for-housing-watch-this/): Mortgage rates remain stubbornly high, leaving many homeowners with buyer’s remorse. We explore practical strategies to make housing more affordable from rate modifications and refinancing to house hacking and even knowing when it’s time to downsize. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your home, this episode is for you.
- [Financial Advisors React ft. Erin Talks Money](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-ft-erin-talks-money/): We are joined by Erin from Erin Talks Money to react to viral clips on Roth IRAs, compounding wealth, renting vs. buying, and the true meaning of financial independence.
- [The Best Financial Strategies by Income, from Financial Advisors](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-best-financial-strategies-by-income-from-financial-advisors/): Is building wealth only for high earners? We reveal how to thrive at $40K, $80K, $150K, and $300K incomes. Learn how to budget, save, and invest at every stage and avoid the traps that derail even high earners.
- [What Are The Odds YOU Get Rich? (Shocking Stats)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/what-are-the-odds-you-get-rich-shocking-stats/): Your odds of winning the lottery are about 1 in 28 million. And yet, 162 million Americans bought a lottery ticket last year. I see people falling into these mental traps all the time, thinking that the only path to wealth are those one-in-a-million fast tracks.
- [The Income A Family Needs To Be Middle Class, By State](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-income-a-family-needs-to-be-middle-class-by-state/): Are you middle class? It depends on where you live and it might not matter at all. In this episode, we break down income ranges by state and explain why behaviors, not labels, determine your financial future.
- [The Truth About Starting Over in Your 40s](https://moneyguy.com/episode/dustin-and-shelby/): Shelby and Dustin’s first year of marriage included combining finances, paying off $57K in student loans, and planning for both college and retirement. Learn how they balanced competing goals and set themselves up for long-term success.
- [From $0 to Millionaire in 10 Years (Is It Possible?)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/from-0-to-millionaire-in-10-years-is-it-possible-2/): Everyone wants to be a millionaire fast, but what does it actually take? This episode breaks down 5 popular wealth-building strategies and reveals which ones are more hype than reality.
- [What Net Worth Puts You In The Upper, Middle, and Lower Class?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/what-net-worth-puts-you-in-the-upper-middle-and-lower-class/): Back in late 2024, Charles Schwab released their Modern Wealth Survey, which found that Americans think you need a whopping $2.5 million in net worth to be wealthy or to be considered upper class.
- [BIG Changes Are Coming To Your 401(k) – What You Need To Know](https://moneyguy.com/episode/big-changes-are-coming-to-your-401k-what-you-need-to-know/): A new executive order could expand your 401(k) options to include private equity, real estate, and crypto. Before you jump in, discover the risks and whether these changes should alter your retirement strategy.
- [Financial Advisors React featuring Graham Stephan](https://moneyguy.com/episode/react-with-graham/): In this episode, Graham Stephan sits down with the Money Guy team to dissect some of the wildest financial advice going viral online. From extreme spending mindsets and high-risk hustles to the surprisingly simple Roth IRA tip that works, you’ll hear what’s smart, what’s marketing, and what to avoid.
- [Why High Earners Are Actually Broke](https://moneyguy.com/episode/why-high-earners-are-actually-broke/): You won’t believe how many six-figure earners feel broke. This episode unpacks the 5 most common mistakes high earners make and shows you how to use your income as a true wealth-building tool.
- [Financial Advisor Explains Compound Interest In 5 Levels of Difficulty](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisor-explains-one-concept-in-5-levels-of-difficulty/): We’re talking about the eighth wonder of the world: compound interest. You know it. You’ll love it. But how well can you explain it?
- [Is $100k Income Enough in 2025?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/is-100k-income-enough-in-2025/): $100K used to be the gold standard, but is it still enough in 2025? We explore what Americans say they need to feel financially secure and how to avoid the trap of lifestyle creep. If you’re chasing wealth, this episode delivers a crucial reality check.
- [From Guilt to Growth: Rewriting Your Money Story](https://moneyguy.com/episode/chelsea-and-lucas/): This episode follows an engaged couple who overcame $100K in credit card debt and built a $550K net worth by age 30. Learn how they merged finances, planned their wedding without debt, and tackled tough conversations about spending, saving, and future family goals.
- [Are You On Track to Become a Multi-Millionaire? (2025 Edition)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/are-you-on-track-to-become-a-multi-millionaire-2025-edition/): Ready to track your progress to financial freedom? This episode breaks down 7 powerful money milestones from $0 net worth to becoming a liquid millionaire. Discover where you stand and how to get to the next level faster.
- [This Money Trend Is Going Viral…Is It Dangerous?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/this-money-trend-is-going-viral-is-it-dangerous/): You’ve probably heard of revenge spending, a money trend that took off in the years following the pandemic. But now there’s a new money trend taking Gen Z and millennials by storm—and we kind of love it.
- [The True Cost of Retirement](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-true-cost-of-retirement/): How much money do you need to retire comfortably? It might depend entirely on where you live. This episode breaks down the retirement math by state, dives into the impact of Social Security, renting vs. homeownership, and answers real listener questions about navigating life’s financial decisions.
- [Financial Advisors React To Crazy Money Scenes From TV Shows](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-crazy-money-scenes-from-tv-shows/): Think TV is just for laughs? Think again. We break down hilarious money scenes from your favorite shows and reveal the real financial wisdom behind them.
- [The 5 Things You NEED to Know About In The One Big Beautiful Bill](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-5-things-you-need-to-know-about-in-the-one-big-beautiful-bill/): The "One Big Beautiful Bill" brings sweeping tax and policy changes that could impact your wallet from deductions and student loans to savings for your future children. Learn what's new and how to act.
- [The Car Market is BANKRUPTING Americans (What You Need To Know)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/car-market-bankrupting/): Average payments for new cars have climbed to $745, with loan terms now being stretched out to over 68 months. Not only that, but almost 70% of Americans own two or more vehicles, with a third of Americans owning three or more. It's no wonder that cars are called the number one wealth killer in America.
- [Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage or Invest?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/should-you-pay-off-your-mortgage-or-invest/): Should you pay off your mortgage or invest that extra cash? This episode tackles the age-old debate using a case study of two different financial strategies. Discover who comes out ahead, how Brian recently achieved mortgage freedom, and learn about key financial planning tools like umbrella insurance and mega backdoor Roths.
- [Should He Give Up Job Stability to Build His Dream?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/should-he-give-up-job-stability-to-build-his-dream/): At 28 Colin’s ahead with a $200K net worth, but he analyzed himself out of a job. The real question is risk it all on a dream or build slower? Discover the roadmap.
- [The 5 Worst Market Crashes of All Time](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-5-worst-market-crashes-of-all-time/): We explore the 5 worst stock market crashes (from the Great Depression to COVID) and show you how to prepare your finances for the next big drop.
- [3 Money Milestones To Hit In Your 20s!](https://moneyguy.com/episode/3-money-milestones-to-hit-in-your-20s/): The median salary for Americans in their 20s is around $45,000. While that might not feel like much, even with a relatively modest salary, you can set yourself on the path to becoming a millionaire by hitting a few key milestones in your 20s.
- [3 Ways to Make Your Kid a Multi-Millionaire](https://moneyguy.com/episode/3-ways-to-make-your-kid-a-multi-millionaire/): Learn how a lump sum at birth, small monthly savings, or a custodial Roth IRA can turn your child into a future millionaire with the money smarts to keep it.
- [Financial Advisors React to Money YouTubers (Part 3)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-money-youtubers-part-3/): This episode dives into three financial mistakes to avoid, the surprising math of buying vs. renting, and why simple systems create real wealth. Don't miss it!
- [The Truth About Dave Ramsey’s 7 Baby Steps](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-truth-about-dave-ramseys-7-baby-steps/): Think Dave Ramsey’s Baby Steps are the gold standard? Think again. Discover how our Financial Order of Operations builds on (and improves) every step of the journey.
- [Why Income Isn’t the Biggest Factor in Becoming a Millionaire](https://moneyguy.com/episode/why-income-isnt-the-biggest-factor-in-becoming-a-millionaire/): What if I told you that income is not the biggest factor in whether you become a millionaire? Hold up—wait a minute—something ain’t right. Most people assume you need a high salary to build wealth. But I’m excited to tell you that the data suggests otherwise.
- [This Will Change How You See MONEY…](https://moneyguy.com/episode/this-will-change-how-you-see-money/): In this episode, we unveil our powerful new (and free) compound interest calculator, answer your top money questions, and show how even tiny changes can transform your financial future.
- [Her Finances Need a TOTAL Reset…](https://moneyguy.com/episode/her-finances-need-a-total-reset/): Megan earns nearly $200,000 and saves over 60% of her income, but she’s anxious, exhausted, and unsure she’s even doing it right. We help her streamline her savings, build an emergency fund, unlock a million-dollar tax move, and finally start living in abundance. Could your finances use the same transformation?
- [How To Build a Financial Plan (By Age)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-build-a-financial-plan-by-age/): Your age matters when it comes to money. Discover the perfect financial plan for each decade - from budgeting basics to building a legacy. Your wealth journey starts here.
- [Are You on Track Financially? A Look at the Average American’s Finances](https://moneyguy.com/episode/are-you-on-track-financially-a-look-at-the-average-americans-finances/): When it comes to personal finance, most Americans want to know two things: Am I on track for my goals? How do I compare to others? While comparison shouldn't be used to judge yourself or others, it can be a helpful tool to understand if you're ahead, behind, or right in the middle of where you need to be.
- [Home Prices Are Being SLASHED (What You Need to Know)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/home-prices-are-being-slashed-what-you-need-to-know/): The housing market is shifting: inventories are up, prices are seeing cuts, and first-time buyers are now 38 on average. We’ll help you figure out if this is your moment, how to keep your housing costs under 25% of your income, and how to avoid letting emotion drive your biggest purchase.
- [Financial Advisors React To WILD Money Advice On YouTube](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-wild-money-advice-on-youtube/): What do astrologers, naked call options, and $4,000 car payments have in common? They're all featured in this hilarious, insightful takedown of bad money advice. We react to the craziest finance content online and explain the real path to financial independence.
- [The Real Science Behind Building Wealth](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-real-science-behind-building-wealth/): Is wealth building really that complicated? Not when you understand the science. In this episode, we reveal how your behavior, finances, and even the economy can work in your favor if you know how to play the game.
- [5 Lessons Investors MUST Learn To Build Wealth](https://moneyguy.com/episode/5-lessons-investors-must-learn-to-build-wealth/): Many investors—both new and experienced—repeatedly make the same costly mistakes. Instead of learning from the market, they often overlook crucial lessons, stalling their progress or making missteps that impact their long-term financial future.
- [6 Questions to Know If You’re Ready for Financial Independence](https://moneyguy.com/episode/6-questions-to-know-if-youre-ready-for-financial-independence/): This episode explores six powerful self-reflection questions to determine your financial independence readiness. We go deep on the “why” behind your money goals and answer live listener questions on HSAs, dividend strategies, emergency fund dilemmas, and more.
- [He Might Be Forced Into Early Retirement… But Can They Afford It?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/chris-and-heather/): After decades of smart saving, this couple thought they had time to figure out retirement. Then a layoff changed everything. Hear their honest journey to financial independence, even in the face of uncertainty.
- [3 Phases of Wealth Building by Age (Where Are You?)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/3-phases-of-wealth-building-by-age-where-are-you/): What should you focus on in your 20s vs. your 50s? We break down the three phases of wealth and how they evolve throughout your financial life.
- [What We Can Learn from the World’s Best Investors](https://moneyguy.com/episode/what-we-can-learn-from-the-worlds-best-investors/): Regardless of where you are in your wealth-building journey, there’s a lot to learn from the world’s most successful investors. However, most people are looking in the wrong place when they try to identify them.
- [We HATE This New Money Trend…](https://moneyguy.com/episode/we-hate-this-new-money-trend/): Buy Now, Pay Later may seem harmless, but we reveal how it's silently eroding financial discipline, damaging credit scores, and keeping young people stuck. Don’t let easy payments ruin your future.
- [Financial Advisors React To Money YouTubers (Part 2)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-money-youtubers-part-2/): We're reacting to financial advice from some of our favorite YouTubers. From the magic of Roth IRAs to the power of consistent investing, you’ll walk away entertained, informed, and ready to build your army of dollar bills.
- [The Tools to Wealth-Building (Do This to Be Rich)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-tools-to-wealth-building-do-this-to-be-rich/): Think wealth building is complicated? Think again. This episode reveals the simple yet powerful formula of discipline, money, and time that can change your future
- [What You Need to Know About the New Tax Bill](https://moneyguy.com/episode/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-new-tax-bill/): We unpack the biggest proposed changes to tax laws - from standard deduction updates to child tax credit increases - and how they may affect your financial future.
- [6 Money Milestones To Hit Before 40!](https://moneyguy.com/episode/6-money-milestones-to-hit-before-40/): Your 30s are a transformative decade. You’re likely: Advancing in your career and income Navigating major life events (marriage, kids, homeownership) Making some of the biggest financial decisions of your life Whether you feel ahead, behind, or unsure, the key is consistency. These milestones are meant to empower, not overwhelm you.
- [Young Couple Is Saving for Their Future Family Over Themselves](https://moneyguy.com/episode/daniel-and-lindsay/): Daniel and Lindsay, 25, already own a rental property and are planning for family life. We help them (and you) prioritize short-term flexibility while staying on track for long-term wealth.
- [Financial Advisors Rank the Most Popular Investment Portfolios](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-rank-the-most-popular-investment-portfolios/): Do you think you're smarter than the average investor? This episode breaks down the real numbers behind investor performance, critiques popular strategies, and reveals why a target-date fund might be a good bet for financial success.
- [5 Signs You’re Richer Than You Think](https://moneyguy.com/episode/5-signs-youre-richer-than-you-think/): Let’s be honest—most of us have felt behind financially at some point. Maybe you've compared yourself to a friend's vacation, their new car, a home upgrade, or an Instagram post. But what if you're actually doing better than you think?
- [How Much Home Can You ACTUALLY Afford in 2025 (By Salary)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-much-home-can-you-actually-afford-in-2025-by-salary/): Can you actually afford a home in today’s market? We walk through income vs. affordability data, explain our proven home buying rules, and show how you can run your numbers with our free calculator. Whether you’re ready to buy or still planning, you won’t want to miss this one.
- [Financial Advisors React to BONKERS Financial Advice](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-bonkers-financial-advice/): We dive into the internet’s most chaotic financial “wisdom,” debunking bad advice and revealing the smarter path to financial independence.
- [7 Cash Flow Milestones Worth Celebrating (2025 Edition)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/7-cash-flow-milestones-worth-celebrating-2025-edition/): Think you're behind in your financial journey? You might be closer than you think. We reveal seven milestones that show you're on the right track - no millionaire status required. Learn what to measure, how to stay motivated, and why cash flow tells the real story.
- [What It Really Takes to Be in the Top 10% Financially](https://moneyguy.com/episode/what-it-really-takes-to-be-in-the-top-10-financially/): A lot of people hear "top 10%" and picture billionaires like Jeff Bezos or Warren Buffett. While they are technically part of that group, they don't reflect what it actually takes to be in the top 10% of Americans by net worth—and the truth might surprise you.
- [78% of People Are Stressed About Money – Here’s How to Fix It!](https://moneyguy.com/episode/78-of-people-are-stressed-about-money-heres-how-to-fix-it/): 78% of Americans are stressed about money. We share how to ease financial anxiety through planning, smart home buying, and more.
- [Can This Family of 6 Survive the Messy Middle? (Over $80k in Debt)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/kaitlyn-and-aaron/): From feeling financially behind to crafting a path to wealth, Kaitlyn and Aaron’s journey is proof that small changes can lead to massive results. Hear how they’re tackling debt, building their emergency fund, and creating a $6M future - step by step.
- [4 Signs You’re Saving Too Much For Retirement](https://moneyguy.com/episode/4-signs-youre-saving-too-much-for-retirement-2/): This episode explores the darker side of saving - what happens when frugality crosses into financial miser territory. If you're living for the future only, listen now.
- [Is Everyone Doing Better With Their Money… or Just Faking It?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/is-everyone-doing-better-with-their-money-or-just-faking-it/): Sometimes it feels like everyone else has their financial life together—vacations, new homes, fancy cars—especially when you scroll through social media. But is this the real picture or just a highlight reel?
- [X% of Americans Over 50 Have NOTHING Saved…](https://moneyguy.com/episode/x-of-americans-over-50-have-nothing-saved/): Falling behind on retirement savings? This episode outlines what to do if you're over 50 and feeling unprepared—and why younger investors have a golden opportunity.
- [Financial Advisors React to YOUR Money Confessions](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-your-money-confessions/): Bitcoin regrets. Tax blunders. Underwear older than your dog. This episode shares true financial confessions that teach, entertain, and maybe hit close to home.
- [Average 401(k) Balance by Age (2025 Edition)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/average-401k-balance-by-age-2025-edition/): Are you saving enough for retirement? In this episode, we reveal the average 401(k) balance by age, break down where you should be, and share powerful strategies to build wealth faster.
- [How to Double Your Savings (And Accelerate Financial Independence)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-double-your-savings-and-accelerate-financial-independence/): Whether you're feeling financially lost and looking for a starting point, or you’ve already locked into good habits like budgeting, cutting back, and skipping that morning coffee—but still feel like it's not enough—this is for you.
- [The Wealth-Building Tool We’ve NEVER Talked About…](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-wealth-building-tool-weve-never-talked-about/): This episode uncovers a powerful, under-the-radar wealth-building tool: state-run auto-IRA programs. Learn how automation can unlock a millionaire future.
- [A Broken Marriage Ruined Their Finances. Here’s How They Turned It Around.](https://moneyguy.com/episode/rick-and-lori/): Rick and Lori share how they overcame debt, grief, and fear to build a retirement plan they can finally enjoy with confidence.
- [FIRE: How to Retire Early and Own Your Life](https://moneyguy.com/episode/fire-how-to-retire-early-and-own-your-life/)
- [How to Recession-Proof Your Finances](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-recession-proof-your-finances/): Sitting down to review your finances is always a smart idea. Making sure you’re not overspending, that your savings are on track, and your investment strategy is sound can help keep you financially healthy.
- [Are Americans Worse Off Financially in 2025?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/are-americans-worse-off-financially-in-2025/): Brian and Bo explore how Americans feel about their finances according to Gallup’s index, share how financial mutants stay optimistic in uncertainty, and answer your questions on downturn buying, HSAs, car purchases, and more.
- [The TRUTH About Dollar Cost Averaging Most Investors Miss](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-truth-about-dollar-cost-averaging-most-investors-miss/)
- [What Gen Z Gets Wrong About Money](https://moneyguy.com/episode/what-gen-z-gets-wrong-about-money/)
- [The 3 Numbers You NEED To Know For Financial Independence](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-3-numbers-you-need-to-know-for-financial-independence/): What if your path to financial independence could be boiled down to just three numbers? That’s exactly what we’re breaking down today — the three essential financial metrics you need to understand and optimize to accelerate your wealth-building journey.
- [Is a $100k Income STILL Enough to Buy the American Dream?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/is-a-100k-income-still-enough-to-buy-the-american-dream/): Is $100k enough? Join us in this episode of Making a Millionaire as we dive into how Daniel and Hannah are navigating the messy middle.
- [Financial Advisors React – Top 10 INSANE Money Advice Videos](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-top-10-insane-money-advice-videos/)
- [Building a Better Relationship with Money](https://moneyguy.com/episode/building-a-better-relationship-with-money/): A lot of financial creators (ourselves included) often focus on the technical side of wealth building—the mechanics, numbers, and strategies. While those are certainly important, the emotional relationship we have with money is just as critical, yet often overlooked.
- [How to Make Money in a Market Crash](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-make-money-in-a-market-crash/)
- [How to Turn Your Finances Around in 6 Months](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-turn-your-finances-around-in-6-months/)
- [I Accidentally Made $1,000,000 (Here’s How)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/i-accidentally-made-1000000-heres-how/): The market has been wild lately—volatile enough to resemble an EKG chart. But amidst all that chaos, something completely unexpected happened: I accidentally made nearly $1 million in a single day.
- [84% of Americans Say THIS is the Key to Success (But They’re Wrong!)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/84-of-americans-say-this-is-the-key-to-success-but-theyre-wrong/)
- [We Catch MAJOR Pitfalls in This Doctor’s DIY Portfolio](https://moneyguy.com/episode/we-catch-major-pitfalls-in-this-doctors-diy-portfolio/): Getting through medical school gave this couple some BIG blind spots. In this episode, want to show them a better way to do money, and set them up for a life of abundance.
- [Beginner’s Guide To Investing (2025 Edition)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/beginners-guide-to-investing-2025-edition/): The comprehensive guide to investing that breaks down the essentials for beginners, covering everything from the basics of stock market investing to tax-efficient strategies.
- [The Market Is Going CRAZY (What It Means For You)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/the-market-is-going-crazy/): Here's how to turn Bear Market fear into financial opportunity!
- [What The Tariffs Mean For Your 401(k)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/what-the-tariffs-mean-for-your-401k/)
- [How to Lose $5M in 5 Days (and How to Avoid It)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-lose-5m-in-5-days-and-how-to-avoid-it/)
- [Is The Market DOOMED? How You Can Prepare](https://moneyguy.com/episode/is-the-market-doomed-how-you-can-prepare/): Tired of the stock market roller coaster? This might help you sleep at night.
- [Are We On The Brink of a Recession? (What You Need To Know)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/are-we-on-the-brink-of-a-recession-what-you-need-to-know/)
- [Blind Spots Could Shatter This Financial Fairy Tale](https://moneyguy.com/episode/blind-spots-could-shatter-this-financial-fairy-tale/): Derek and McKenna have a fairytale romance. But is their sense of security merely a myth? We uncover BIG blind spots that could turn their dream life into a nightmare.
- [Financial Advisors React to Money YouTubers](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-money-youtubers/)
- [How To Open a Roth IRA | Financial Advisor Live Walkthrough](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-open-a-roth-ira-financial-advisor-live-walkthrough/): This step-by-step guide walks you through exactly how to open a Roth IRA account. (It's way easier than you might think!)
- [Am I In Trouble With the IRS?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/am-i-in-trouble-with-the-irs/)
- [How to Buy Back Your Time](https://moneyguy.com/episode/how-to-buy-back-your-time/)
- [Financial Advisor Explains: How To MAXIMIZE Your HSA!](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisor-explains-how-to-maximize-your-hsa/): Learn how Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) offer incredible investment opportunities that could revolutionize your retirement planning.
- [Don’t Make THIS Common Roth IRA Mistake](https://moneyguy.com/episode/dont-make-this-common-roth-ira-mistake/)
- [Triple-Leverage Cowboy Is Playing With FIRE](https://moneyguy.com/episode/triple-leverage-cowboy-is-playing-with-fire/): Phil told us he treats money like a game. In this Making a Millionaire episode, we break down why his money mindset might be too risky to maximize his army of dollar bills.
- [America’s #1 Wealth Killer (That No One Talks About)](https://moneyguy.com/episode/americas-1-wealth-killer-that-no-one-talks-about/)
- [An 8% Withdrawal Rate Is DANGEROUS | Financial Advisor Explains](https://moneyguy.com/episode/an-8-withdrawal-rate-is-dangerous-financial-advisor-explains/): Your withdrawal rate determines how much you need invested to support yourself in retirement. If you can safely withdraw more, you can potentially retire sooner.
- [My First Market Crash. Is This Time Really Different?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/my-first-market-crash-is-this-time-really-different/)
- [401(k) Mistakes That Could Cost You Millions](https://moneyguy.com/episode/401k-mistakes-that-could-cost-you-millions/)
- [HUGE Pay Cut for a New Career – Is it Worth It?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/huge-pay-cut-for-a-new-career-is-it-worth-it/)
- [Should You Pay Off Debt Or Invest? | Financial Advisor Explains](https://moneyguy.com/episode/should-you-pay-off-debt-or-invest-financial-advisor-explains/): But what if I told you there’s a middle ground between paying off debt and investing? Yes, debt is dangerous, but it can also be a tool for improving your financial life.
- [VanLife Millionaires Are Leaving MILLIONS On The Table](https://moneyguy.com/episode/vanlife-millionaires-are-leaving-millions-on-the-table/): In this episode, we discuss Robert and Keri's unique lifestyle. Has such a frugal lifestyle cost them huge opportunities? We expand on potential next steps for financial success by mastering their money mindset.
- [Financial Advisors React to INSANE Sports Betting Takes](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-insane-sports-betting-takes/)
- [Why Some People End Up Broke or Rich](https://moneyguy.com/episode/why-some-people-end-up-broke-or-rich/): Many believe that a high income automatically equals wealth. That’s simply false. Nearly half of Americans making over $100,000 live paycheck to paycheck. 1 in 4 people making $200,000+ also report insufficient income.
- [Expecting a Layoff? Do This.](https://moneyguy.com/episode/expecting-a-layoff-do-this/)
- [Don’t Fall for These 5 Tax Traps](https://moneyguy.com/episode/dont-fall-for-these-5-tax-traps/)
- [3 Wealth Milestones YOU Can Use To Stay On Track!](https://moneyguy.com/episode/3-wealth-milestones-you-can-use-to-stay-on-track/): Building wealth can feel like a long and difficult journey. Every dollar you save is a step forward—and it's often the furthest you’ve ever been on your path to financial independence. Still, it’s easy to lose motivation along the way.
- [I Save, They Spend – What Do We Do?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/i-save-they-spend-what-do-we-do/)
- [Debt CRISIS Could Ruin This Teacher’s Financial Future](https://moneyguy.com/episode/debt-crisis-could-ruin-this-teachers-financial-future/): Can we right this ship before it sinks? In this episode, we break down this educator's big debt that is keeping him from maximizing his army of dollar bills.
- [What FIRE Can Teach You No Matter When You Retire](https://moneyguy.com/episode/what-fire-can-teach-you-no-matter-when-you-retire/)
- [What Is The Financial Order of Operations?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/what-is-the-financial-order-of-operations/): Your step-by-step guide to making smart financial decisions with every dollar.
- [X% of Americans Don’t Have $1,000!](https://moneyguy.com/episode/x-of-americans-dont-have-1000/)
- [Is Your Brain Keeping You BROKE?](https://moneyguy.com/episode/is-your-brain-keeping-you-broke/)
- [Financial Advisor Explains: Backdoor and Mega Backdoor Roth Conversions](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisor-explains-backdoor-and-mega-backdoor-roth-conversions/): Building wealth and saving big on taxes? That’s where Roth accounts shine. Let’s dive into how to leverage Roth strategies to maximize tax-free growth and accelerate your financial future.
- [We’re changing the FOO…](https://moneyguy.com/episode/were-changing-the-foo/)
- [Super-Savers Can’t Forgive Their Money Mistakes](https://moneyguy.com/episode/super-savers-cant-forgive-their-money-mistakes/): Megan & Patrick thought that they were living the American Dream, but then, disaster struck. In this episode, can we help them build a better relationship with money?
- [Financial Advisors React to Big Money Fails](https://moneyguy.com/episode/financial-advisors-react-to-big-money-fails/)
- [Wealth-Building, Simplified: Three-Bucket Strategy Explained!](https://moneyguy.com/episode/wealth-building-simplified-three-bucket-strategy-explained/): The Three Bucket Strategy is a tax-optimization method for saving and investing. It divides your money into three different types of accounts—each with different tax treatment:

## FAQs
- [How big should my emergency fund be?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/how-big-emergency-fund/): The general recommendation is to keep 3-6 months of living expenses high-yield savings account, but it may be different depending on your financial situation.
- [Should I pick stocks or invest in index funds?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/stocks-or-index-funds/): It can be tempting to invest in individual stocks. The best-performing stocks each year will always beat the indexes by a large margin. However, picking which stocks will beat the index is easier said than done. Even professional money managers with decades of experience have trouble beating index funds with any consistency.
- [Do I need a will? If so, how do I get one?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/do-i-need-a-will/): Yes, you probably need a will. In situations where you have little in assets and possessions and don't have a complicated estate, you may be able to get away without having a will, but it's always better to be on the safe side.
- [How should I invest in retirement?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/how-to-invest-in-retirement/): In retirement, you may have pension income and Social Security in addition to distributions from your retirement account. If part of your income is fixed and not invested in the market, how should you invest in your portfolio?
- [Do I Need Life Insurance? What’s the Difference Between Whole Life and Term?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/do-i-need-life-insurance-whats-the-difference-between-whole-life-and-term/): When deciding if you need life insurance, it's important to first understand what purpose the insurance would be serving. The most common use of life insurance is to provide an immediate pool of assets that can replace the insured's income or savings potential to meet the needs of the survivors. These needs could be living expenses, outstanding debts like mortgages, education expenses and any other financial needs or goals. The bottom line is, if you aren't here tomorrow, will your family's quality of life continue or grind to a halt?
- [How do I know what tax bracket I’m in?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/how-do-i-know-what-tax-bracket-i-am-in/): Your tax bracket determines how much you will pay in federal income tax. In the US we have a progressive tax system, which means as your income goes up, your tax bracket increases. However, your "tax bracket" does not apply to your entire income, but is tier-based. For example, if you are a single filer and make over $640,600 in 2026, you are in the highest tax bracket of 37%. But only income above that threshold is taxed at 37%, and income under that threshold is taxed at lower rates (a portion is taxed at 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, and 35%).
- [How can I invest in real estate?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/invest-in-real-estate/): Passively investing in real estate, through REITs or other real estate index funds, can be done through your 401(k) or Roth IRA. For more hands-on investing in real estate, we believe you should wait until Step 7 of the Financial Order of Operations, hyperaccumulation.
- [How Much Student Loan Debt is Ok to Take On?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/how-much-student-loan-debt-is-ok-to-take-on/): Education can be a huge and necessary opportunity as you turn dreams into goals, then goals into reality. The catch? Higher education is increasingly expensive and often requires taking on student loan debt.
- [How much do I need to retire?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/how-much-i-need-to-retire/): It’s a question anyone that’s serious about investing for retirement has asked themselves a thousand times: how much do I need to retire? Savers often want a direct, straightforward answer, like “You need $1,529,651 invested to retire.” Unfortunately, coming up with that number isn’t so easy. Before you try to determine your retirement number, there are a few different factors that come into play you need to understand.
- [When Is It Ok To Stop Saving So Aggressively and Spend Money On Things I Want?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/when-is-it-ok-to-stop-saving-so-aggressively-and-spend-money-on-things-i-want/): Saving a little bit of today for a great, big, beautiful tomorrow is a core tenant for The Money Guy family. The power your army of dollar bills holds, especially while you're young, warrants mastering the art of deferred gratification. (See how much your money can grow at each age in this free PDF: "How Powerful Are Your Dollars?")
- [What type of account should I invest in?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/account-invest-in/): One of the most frequently asked questions we get is where do I start investing? The answer is simple: follow the Financial Order of Operations. These nine tried-and-true steps act as an instruction manual for your money, showing you how prioritizing your financial goals can help you maximize your money in the long run and which order to contribute to your retirement accounts.
- [What is an HSA and Should I Contribute to One?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/what-is-an-hsa-and-should-i-contribute-to-one/): 1. They're funded through either pre-tax dollars through an employer or tax-deductible dollars if you open your own account (and as a bonus advantage, contributions funded through an employer are not subject to FICA taxes).
- [How do I teach my kids about money?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/teach-kids-money/): Focus on teaching your children the basics of saving, giving, and investing. As parents, we are focused on preparing our children to lead successful, meaningful lives. Even though they spend a large portion of their childhood in a classroom, personal finance isn't usually a major focus. Since that's the case, we have some ideas on how parents can get their kids started on the path to financial mastery.
- [How do I start working with Abound?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/start-working-with-abound/): How do you know when it's the right time to find a financial advisor? If you feel like there simply aren't enough hours in the day to manage your own money and think you could benefit from a financial co-pilot, it may be a good time to consider working with a financial advisor.
- [How do I create a tax-efficient investment strategy?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/tax-efficient-investment-strategy/): After nailing down your investment goals, knowing the tax treatment of different investment accounts can help optimize your portfolio.
- [How Does My Pension Factor Into My Net Worth Statement and Retirement Calculations?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/pension-factor-net-worth-statement-and-retirement-calculations/): Pensions are generally not included in your Net Worth, but do play an important role in retirement planning.
- [Should I Contribute to Roth or Traditional/Pre-Tax (i.e. 401k, IRA, etc.)?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/should-i-contribute-to-roth-or-traditional-pre-tax-i-e-401k-ira-etc/): Roth IRAs are an extremely powerful savings tool! These accounts allow you to contribute after-tax dollars, then the dollars grow tax-free and have tax-free qualified distributions.
- [How can I retire early?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/how-to-retire-early/): If you want to know if you're on the right track to retire early, you need to put some numbers to your financial life.
- [How do I Buy a House in a Smart Way? Do I Have to Put 20% Down?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/how-do-i-buy-a-house-in-a-smart-way-do-i-have-to-put-20-down/): As a first time home buyer, the prospect of saving 20% of the home price as a down payment can feel daunting at best and impossible at worst. This is especially true near large cities and for young people starting families.
- [How do I calculate income tax?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/how-do-i-calculate-income-tax/): To calculate the amount of income tax you owe you need to know your income, federal, state, and local tax rates, and any tax deductions or credits.
- [How do I invest for my children?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/invest-for-children/): The best place to save for your children depends on the goals you have for your savings. Do you want to save for their future education, their retirement, big expenses like buying a home or a wedding, or something else?
- [What is the Financial Order of Operations (FOO)?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/what-is-the-financial-order-of-operations-foo/): The Financial Order of Operations, or FOO, as it is most commonly called, is our 9-step system designed to help you decide what to do with your next dollar. The FOO outlines when you should pay off debt or invest, when to save an emergency fund, when to invest for your child's college education, and so much more.
- [Should I Save for My Kid’s College Education?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/should-save-college/): Contributing or paying for your kids' college education is a wonderful and noble goal, but you need to make sure your retirement is secure before worrying about paying for college.
- [When do I need a financial advisor?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/when-do-i-need-a-financial-advisor/): It can be difficult to know exactly when it's the right time to hire a financial advisor. We have decades of experience working with clients from all demographics, and can provide some tips on when it makes sense to take the next step and hire a financial advisor.
- [If I have a large sum to invest, should I dollar cost average or invest all at once?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/lump-sum-or-dollar-cost-average/): If you receive an inheritance, sell a business, receive a large bonus, or win the lottery, you may have a large chunk of change you want to invest in the stock market. There can be risks to investing that money all at once; what if the market drops by 30% the year after you invest?
- [Should I Prepay My Mortgage or Invest More?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/should-i-prepay-my-mortgage-or-invest-more/): If you have a low-interest rate mortgage and are under the age of 45, you should generally consider investing more for retirement rather than paying off your mortgage early. It simply doesn't make mathematical sense for younger investors to put scarce and precious resources towards low-interest mortgage debt when the expected return of investing for retirement is significantly higher.
- [Do I Have to Pay Cash When Buying a Car?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/do-i-have-to-pay-cash-when-buying-a-car/): If you need to purchase a reliable vehicle to get you to work and take care of your family, we have a Money Guy 20/3/8 rule of thumb that allows you to take on a car loan in a wise and financially responsible way.
- [How do I time the stock market?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/how-do-i-time-the-market/): Time IN the market is better than timING the market.
- [Should I pay off debt or invest for retirement?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/should-i-pay-off-my-debt-before-saving-for-retirement/): Getting your employer match comes before paying off high-interest debt in the Financial Order of Operations, but contributing to other retirement accounts comes after your high-interest debt is paid off. We believe you should also prioritize investing in your Roth IRA and HSA before maximizing your employer-sponsored account such as a 401(k).
- [The Market is Dropping and I’m Freaking Out! Is it Time to Sell Everything?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/the-market-is-dropping-and-im-freaking-out-is-it-time-to-sell-everything/): We get it. When markets are in a volatile state, it's easy to panic. It’s tempting to want to do something when the market starts to drop, even if it isn’t in your best interest. When things are scary and emotional, that is not the time to making adjustments.
- [I Make Too Much Money to Contribute to a Roth IRA. Is There Still a Way to Build Roth Assets?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/i-make-too-much-money-to-contribute-to-a-roth-ira-is-there-still-a-way-to-build-roth-assets/): The current income limitations can be found in this Money Guy resource, Money Guy 2022 Tax Guide.
- [Does Abound Wealth provide one-time or hourly advice?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/abound-wealth-one-time-advice/): Abound Wealth wants to be your financial partner through all stages of your financial life. We provide ongoing, holistic financial planning.
- [I Am in My Early 20s and Starting to Dip My Toe in the Investment World. What Should I Do?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/i-am-in-my-early-20s-and-starting-to-dip-my-toe-in-the-investment-world-what-should-i-do/): It’s great that you are thinking about saving and investing now! The earlier you start, the more time your money has to grow before retirement. Begin by following the Financial Order of Operations (FOO). These nine tried- and-true steps will help you maximize your money, know exactly where to put your next dollar, and reach your financial goals.
- [What is a Net Worth Statement and How can it Enhance my Financial Life?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/what-is-a-net-worth-statement-and-how-can-it-enhance-my-financial-life/): We recommend updating your net worth statement annually, and Bo and Brian usually do it at the very beginning of the year. Your net worth statement is the tool that records successes and failures of your financial life.
- [How do I start saving money and where should I save?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/how-to-save/): The earlier you start, the greater the reward in the future! If you put in $1 into a savings account at age 20, it has the opportunity to grow into $88.35 by retirement, assuming a 10% annualized growth rate. This is why we recommend you save as much as you can early on in your financial journey. The further you age, the lower your wealth multiplier becomes.
- [I’m in the Military. What are Some Programs I Can Take Advantage of to Help Me Build Wealth?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/im-in-the-military-what-are-some-programs-i-can-take-advantage-of-to-help-me-build-wealth/): There are multiple benefits and specific programs that can help military personnel build wealth.
- [What’s the Difference Between Active and Passive Funds? How do I Know Which One is For Me?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/whats-the-difference-between-active-and-passive-funds-how-do-i-know-which-one-is-for-me/): First of all, what do we mean by passive?
- [Is it okay to use a credit card?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/is-it-ok-to-use-a-credit-card/): Credit cards can be a powerful tool if used correctly, but ONLY if you use them responsibly.
- [How Should Bonds and Fixed Income Factor into My Portfolio?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/how-should-bonds-and-fixed-income-factor-into-my-portfolio/): A well-diversified portfolio should be tailored to your long-term goals and appropriately match your individual risk tolerance. Investing in different market areas across multiple asset classes will limit your portfolio's ups and downs, but it doesn't always feel good!
- [What Can I Do Now To Prepare For A Successful And Fulfilling Retirement?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/what-can-i-do-now-to-prepare-for-a-successful-and-fulfilling-retirement/): A successful retirement plan is not purely focused on your financial life. The non-financial aspects of retirement are equally as important and should not be neglected when planning for your retirement.
- [When Should I Refinance My Mortgage?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/when-should-i-refinance-my-mortgage/): There are several different reasons why you may be considering refinancing your mortgage. The most popular reason is to get a lower interest rate, but you may also be looking to decrease your monthly payment, get cash out of your home, change the term of your mortgage, or move between a variable and fixed interest rate.
- [How Much Should I Be Saving For Retirement?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/how-much-should-i-be-saving-for-retirement/): We suggest saving 20-25% of your gross income towards retirement. While saving something is better than nothing, especially while you're young or just starting out, this 20-25% savings rate should be your goal.
- [How do I become a financial advisor?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/become-a-financial-advisor/): Whether you are a career changer looking to make a difference or a college student with a passion for finance, becoming a financial advisor is a great way to help people and a career with a lot of potential for growth. If you are considering becoming a financial advisor, you'll first want to complete the CFP® certification requirements.
- [What do I do after maxing out my retirement accounts?](https://moneyguy.com/faq/max-out-retirement-accounts/): Where can you invest for retirement after maxing out your Roth IRA, HSA, and employer plan? For those who have yet to reach a 25% gross savings rate, brokerage accounts can be a great solution.

## Products
- [Know Your Number](https://moneyguy.com/products/know-your-number/): Want to own your time? This deep dive and interactive tool shows you how much wealth you need to retire, when you’ll get there, and how to get there faster!
- [The Money Guy Net Worth Tool](https://moneyguy.com/products/the-money-guy-net-worth-tool/): Want to stay motivated and reach your financial goals faster? Calculate and track your wealth, and automatically measure growth over time.
- [Financial Order of Operations](https://moneyguy.com/products/financial-order-of-operations/): Learn exactly where to put your next dollar for maximum impact. Get on the fast track with Money Guy’s nine steps to financial success.
- [Millionaire Mission (Brian’s Book)](https://moneyguy.com/millionairemission/): A 9-step system to level up your finances and build wealth. Get your copy and start your millionaire mission today!
- [Roth IRA Guide](https://learn.moneyguy.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-roth-iras): Tap into one of the most powerful investment tools. Dig into tax-advantages, backdoor Roths, how kids can build Roth assets, and how to open an account for yourself today!

## Resources
- [The Parent’s Guide to Raising Financial Mutants](https://moneyguy.com/resource/the-parents-guide-to-raising-financial-mutants/): Learn the insights and tools to empower your children to make informed financial decisions as they navigate their more beautiful tomorrow.
- [Financial Planning for Children with Disabilities](https://moneyguy.com/resource/financial-planning-for-children-with-disabilities/): Finding out your child has a disability can be an overwhelming and confusing time. This ebook gives you a starting point, specifically for your financial questions!
- [2026 Tax Guide](https://moneyguy.com/resource/2026-tax-guide/): Ever wonder what the highly trained professionals use to tax plan? Wonder no more! We’ve assembled the ultimate tax guide you can download and reference as you prepare your taxes this year. After all, the more money you can save on taxes, the more money you have for your army of dollar bills, getting you that much closer to reaching your financial goals.
- [When Should I Claim Social Security?](https://moneyguy.com/resource/when-should-i-claim-social-security/): However, knowing when to draw your benefits isn't a one-size-fits-all decision. Should you claim at 62 and take the reduced benefit? Wait until full retirement age at 67? Or delay until 70 for a maximum payout? Your decision depends on unique factors like your health, your spouse's earnings, your tax bracket, and your past and current income. Making the wrong choice could cost you tens of thousands of dollars over your retirement.
- [Tax Guide 2025](https://moneyguy.com/resource/tax-guide-2025/): Ever wonder what the highly trained professionals use to tax plan? Wonder no more! We’ve assembled the ultimate tax guide you can download and reference as you prepare your taxes this year. After all, the more money you can save on taxes, the more money you have for your army of dollar bills, getting you that much closer to reaching your financial goals.
- [New Child Checklist](https://moneyguy.com/resource/new-child-checklist/): Planning for a new child is so exciting! But as parents, we know it can also start to feel overwhelming. With so many things to think about like doctor appointments, nursery setup, and baby registries, the financial and legal to-dos tend to fall through the cracks. Plus, especially if this is your first kid, you may not even know what you need to be doing protect your growing family!
- [Got An Old 401(k)?](https://moneyguy.com/resource/got-an-old-401k/): Deciding what to do with your old 401(k) can be a pain. We're here to make it easy.
- [What 1% More Can Do For You](https://moneyguy.com/resource/what-1-more-can-do-for-you/): Small decisions today can have profound impacts tomorrow on your financial future.
- [Car Buying Checklist](https://moneyguy.com/resource/car-buying-checklist/): Here’s how you can buy a dependable car that won’t break the bank. Our free checklist walks you through the 20/3/8 rule and strategies to avoid common buying mistakes.
- [Home Buying Checklist](https://moneyguy.com/resource/home-buying-checklist/): Before you make one of the biggest purchase of your life, make sure you're ready with our Home Buying Checklist. This free downloadable resource provides 8 critical questions covering everything from emergency fund size and down payment requirements to location analysis and family planning to help you avoid costly mistakes that derail first-time buyers.
- [Inside the Life of a Money Guy Millionaire](https://moneyguy.com/resource/inside-the-life-of-a-money-guy-millionaire/): What do you think your life would look like if you were wealthy? Would you quit your job and travel the world? Would you drive a nice car or eat at Michelin star restaurants?
- [Wealth Multiplier By Age](https://moneyguy.com/resource/wealth-multiplier-by-age/): If you want to set yourself up for future success, find out how much you need to save every month to become a millionaire.
- [How Much Should You Save?](https://moneyguy.com/resource/how-much-to-save/): How much of your income can you replace in retirement? It's one of the most critical questions in financial planning. Without knowing the specific income replacement percentages tied to your savings rate and age, you're planning your retirement in the dark. You can replace different portions of your income in retirement based on your savings rate and the age you start saving.
- [Net Worth Template](https://moneyguy.com/resource/net-worth-template/): It’s our favorite time of year: time to complete your annual net worth statement!
- [Refinance Guide](https://moneyguy.com/resource/refinance-guide/): Do you have questions about refinancing your mortgage? Learn how refinancing works, when it makes sense, and the steps to get started today.
- [Net Worth by Age (Compared to Peers)](https://moneyguy.com/resource/net-worth-by-age-compared-to-peers/): Find out how your net worth compares to peers at every age with income-adjusted benchmarks from 20 to 65. See exactly where you stand and how close you are to reaching the next tier of wealth.
- [8 Questions to Ask Your Financial Advisor](https://moneyguy.com/resource/8-questions-to-ask-your-financial-advisor/): Whether you're looking for a new advisor or you're already working with one, this FREE download will help you understand how your army of dollar bills is being optimized.
- [The Money Guy Guide to Retirement](https://moneyguy.com/resource/the-money-guy-guide-to-retirement/): What would it take to retire with total confidence? A clear, practical guide to the Mutant Mindset factors that matter most for your great big beautiful tomorrow.
- [Financial Order of Operations®: Maximize Your Army of Dollar Bills!](https://moneyguy.com/resource/financial-order-of-operations/): Building wealth is simple when you know what to do and the order in which to do it. That's why we've created the Financial Order of Operations that outlines the 9 steps anyone can take to build wealth and reach financial abundance. You've heard us talk about these steps over and over again on the show, and now you can download them here to reference anytime you need a refresher!
- [Are You on Track to Be a Millionaire?](https://moneyguy.com/resource/are-you-on-track-to-be-a-millionaire/): Are you on track to be a millionaire by 65? It's a question some people wonder about but may never actually calculate. You might be saving consistently, investing in your 401(k), and doing "all the right things," but without knowing the actual numbers, you're just guessing. Whether you want to check your own progress or invest a lump sum to set your children up for millionaire status, find out how much you need to save (or already have saved) to become a millionaire at 65.
- [Are You a Prodigious Accumulator of Wealth?](https://moneyguy.com/resource/are-you-a-prodigious-accumulator-of-wealth/): Is your net worth on track for retirement? You might be saving consistently and contributing to your 401(k), but are you actually accumulating wealth at an above-average rate? A Prodigious Accumulator of Wealth (PAW) has twice or more than the expected level of net worth for their age and income, according to the Money Guy-adjusted formula. In this free PDF download, we give the amount you need to have already accumulated by age and income to be considered a PAW.

## Tools
- [Compound Interest Calculator](https://moneyguy.com/tool/compound-interest-calculator/): See how much your money can grow using the power of compound interest!
- [Car Affordability Calculator (20/3/8 Rule)](https://moneyguy.com/tool/how-much-car-can-you-afford/): Follow the 20/3/8 rule and see how much car you can afford.
- [How Much House Can You Afford?](https://moneyguy.com/tool/how-much-house-can-you-afford/): Use our tool to determine what houses are in your budget.
- [Are You a Prodigious Accumulator of Wealth?](https://moneyguy.com/tool/are-you-a-prodigious-accumulator-of-wealth/): How have you done so far at accumulating wealth?
- [Wealth Multiplier Calculator](https://moneyguy.com/tool/wealth-multiplier/): Discover the power of each dollar you invest at your age.

## Ultimate Guides
- [How to Know When You’re Financially Ready to Start a Business](https://moneyguy.com/guide/how-to-know-when-youre-financially-ready-to-start-a-business/): Becoming an entrepreneur is an enticing and attractive path to making a living and building wealth. The glossy brochure promises ownership of your time, full autonomy over your labor, and the possibility to grow your income to a level beyond what you could ever earn working for someone else.
- [How to Invest: Complete Guide to Building Wealth](https://moneyguy.com/guide/investing/): Learn how to invest for retirement with Money Guy's complete investing guide. Master the 25% rule, index funds, asset allocation, and avoid costly mistakes.
- [Ultimate Guide to Mastering Your Money Mindset](https://moneyguy.com/guide/money-mindset/): A healthy relationship with money is cultivated over time, just like going to the gym, eating healthy, or brushing your teeth. If you neglect your relationship with money, bad habits will replace good ones and your financial life will decay.
- [Estate Planning Ultimate Guide](https://moneyguy.com/guide/estate-planning/): 67% of Americans avoid estate planning until it's too late. The Money Guy Show's ultimate guide makes it simple: how & when to get started, what it costs, and when you might need help. Protect your possessions and take care of your loved ones.
- [Budgeting – Money Guy’s Ultimate Guide](https://moneyguy.com/guide/budgeting/): Money Guy's approach to budgeting goes beyond restriction and focuses on wealth creation. Get Money Guy's take on popular budgeting rules like 50/30/20, zero-based, and loud budgeting. Plus, get insights on automating finances and adapting your budget during different life stages. Includes app recommendations and step-by-step guidance to make budgeting work for your unique financial situation
- [401(k) – Your Ultimate Guide](https://moneyguy.com/guide/401k/): Getting started with a 401(k) is easy. But, sticking with it and avoiding mistakes is hard. Money Guy covers it all in this 401K guide for any age.
- [Paying for College – Money Guy’s Ultimate Guide](https://moneyguy.com/guide/college/): The cost of attending college has risen significantly over the last several decades. Here's how to decide if it still makes sense to attend, how to pay for college without student loans, and how to pick a degree that is more than worth your time and money.
- [Money Guy’s Top Tax Planning Strategies](https://moneyguy.com/guide/taxes/): Tax evasion is illegal, but tax avoidance is smart. Keep and save more of what you earn. It's encouraged by our tax code. Ready for tax planning strategies that actually work?
- [Retirement – Money Guy’s Ultimate Guide](https://moneyguy.com/guide/retirement/): Drowning in retirement planning jargon and confused about which accounts to open first? Cut through complexity and craft a personalized retirement path with our step-by-step guide for ambitious professionals. Maximize tax advantages and employer benefits.
- [The Truth about Different Types of Insurance](https://moneyguy.com/guide/insurance/)
- [Buying a House – Money Guy’s Ultimate Guide To Your Biggest Purchase](https://moneyguy.com/guide/home-buying/): Buying a house is likely the single largest financial decision you will ever make. It is almost certainly a six-figure decision and in some cases is a seven-figure decision. Making a smart financial decision when you buy your home does not mean timing the market, buying at the “right” time, or even making a great financial investment.
- [Average Net Worth By Age – How Americans Stack Up](https://moneyguy.com/guide/net-worth-by-age/)
- [The 5 Levels of Wealth Explained](https://moneyguy.com/guide/5-levels-of-wealth/): Are you actually wealthy? What are the 5 levels of wealth? Money Guy's wealth pyramid may surprise you. See how you compare and learn how to level up.
- [Wealth Multiplier | Your Comprehensive Guide](https://moneyguy.com/guide/wealth-multiplier/)
- [How To Buy a Car the Right Way](https://moneyguy.com/guide/car-buying/)
- [The 20/3/8 Rule: How Much Car Can You Really Afford? [Calculator + Guide]](https://moneyguy.com/guide/20-3-8-rule/)
- [FOO – Your Ultimate Guide to Money Guy’s Financial Order of Operations](https://moneyguy.com/guide/foo/): How do you know what to do with your next dollar? Should you invest it, pay off debt, pay for your kids’ college, or something else? The Financial Order of Operations is a nine-step system designed to help you discover the answer to just that: what to do with every dollar. From insurance, maxing your employer match, paying off credit card debt, building an emergency fund, investing in a Roth IRA and more, the nine steps will help you prioritize your financial goals and build your more beautiful tomorrow.

## Categories
- [Beyond Basics](https://moneyguy.com/category/beyond-basics/)
- [Budgeting](https://moneyguy.com/category/budgeting/)
- [Car Buying](https://moneyguy.com/category/car-buying/)
- [College](https://moneyguy.com/category/college/)
- [Debt](https://moneyguy.com/category/debt/)
- [Estate Planning](https://moneyguy.com/category/estate-planning/)
- [Financial Planning](https://moneyguy.com/category/financial-planning/)
- [Insurance](https://moneyguy.com/category/insurance/)
- [Investing](https://moneyguy.com/category/investing/)
- [Life Events](https://moneyguy.com/category/life/)
- [Money Mindset](https://moneyguy.com/category/money-mindset/)
- [Real Estate & Mortgages](https://moneyguy.com/category/real-estate/)
- [Retirement Planning](https://moneyguy.com/category/retirement/)
- [Saving Money](https://moneyguy.com/category/saving/)
- [Tax Planning](https://moneyguy.com/category/tax-planning/)
- [Uncategorized](https://moneyguy.com/category/uncategorized/)
- [Wealth Management](https://moneyguy.com/category/wealth-management/)

The Money Guy
Authoritative guide for AI context

Think of this as the ultimate wikipedia page for The Money Guy.
Financial Order of Operations (FOO)
Decision Framework
Core Question: "What should I do with my next dollar?" Answer Method: Follow FOO steps in order - complete current step before moving to next
The 9 Steps - Quick Reference
Step 1: Deductibles Covered
Action: Save highest insurance deductible, most commonly in a high-yield savings account (HYSA)
Amount/Target: Varies by policy, but typically between $500 to $20,000
Skip If: No insurance or amount saved in an emergency fund is already greater than your highest deductible
Step 2: Employer Match
Action: Invest enough in your retirement plan to get your full employer match. Employers often match up to a percentage of your pay. If your employer does a dollar-for-dollar match up to 6%, for example, you would need to invest 6% of your own salary to complete this step
Amount/Target: To maximize the employer match
Skip If: Your employer does not contribute to your retirement plan, you don’t have a workplace retirement plan, or if your employer contributions require no contributions of your own
Step 3: High-Interest Debt
Action: Pay off all of your high-interest debt. The following types of debt are classified as high-interest: 
Student loans if the interest rate is greater than 6% in your 20s, 5% in your 30s, 4% in your 40s, or if you have any student loans past age 50
Any consumer debt, including credit cards
Auto loans and mortgages are subject to their own set of rules but are generally not considered high-interest debt
Amount/Target: Eliminate all high-interest debt
Skip If: You do not have any high-interest debt
Step 4: Emergency Fund
Action: Save an adequate amount in an emergency fund, generally a high-yield savings account, to provide for you or your family in case of job loss, disability, or other financial emergency
Amount/Target: Most should save between 3 to 6 months of expenses, however those with low job security or high risk for disability or other financial emergency may need to save more
Skip If: You already have a full emergency fund
Step 5: Roth IRA + HSA
Action: Contribute the maximum amount to a Roth IRA and/or HSA.
Amount/Target: In 2025, the contribution limit for Roth IRAs is $7,000 or $8,000 for those age 50 and older, who qualify for an extra $1,000 catch-up contribution. The HSA contribution limit is $4,300 for individual coverage or $8,550 for family coverage in 2025.
Skip If: You do not qualify for a Roth IRA due to income limits or don’t qualify for an HSA due to not being enrolled in an eligible medical plan
Step 6: Max Employer Plans
Action: Contribute the maximum amount to your employer-sponsored retirement plan
Amount/Target: Contribution limits vary based on the type of plan. The 401(k) contribution limit is $23,500 in 2025, and individuals age 50 and older can contribute an additional $7,500 for a total of $31,000.
Skip If: You do not have an employer-sponsored retirement plan
Step 7: Hyperaccumulation
Action: The Money Guy defines hyperaccumulation as investing for retirement beyond traditional avenues. Hyperaccumulation generally includes investing in a taxable brokerage account and/or using what is called the mega backdoor Roth strategy to contribute more to an employer-sponsored retirement plan.
Amount/Target: Invest at least 25% of your gross income for retirement. Depending on age and retirement goals, investing more than 25% may be necessary.
Skip If: You are already investing 25% of your income or more for retirement. Most Americans will reach that 25% goal in previous steps, so Step 7 only applies to higher-income Americans.
Step 8: Prepay Future Expenses
Action: Save for short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals outside of retirement. This could include saving for your children to go to college (like in a 529), a big vacation, a home renovation or second home, and more.
Amount/Target: Varies
Skip If: There are no additional goals to save for
Step 9: Prepay Low-Interest Debt
Action: Pay off any remaining debt, most commonly a mortgage, but can also include student loans, car loans, and other low-interest debt
Amount/Target: Eliminate all debt
Skip If: You do not have any remaining debt
Key Decision Rules
High-Interest vs Low-Interest Debt
High-Interest debt:
Student loans if the interest rate is greater than 6% in your 20s, 5% in your 30s, 4% in your 40s, or if you have any student loans past age 50
Any consumer debt, including credit cards
Auto loans and mortgages are subject to their own set of rules but are generally not considered high-interest debt
Low-Interest:
Mortgages, even if the interest rate is 6-7%
Student loans if the interest rate is less than 6% in your 20s, 5% in your 30s, and 4% in your 40s
Car loans that follow the 20/3/8 rule
Special case: 0% credit cards or any other consumer debt with a low interest rate is treated as high-interest debt
Emergency Fund Size
Standard: 3-6 months expenses
Larger needed: Single income household, specialized career field
Calculate on: Monthly expenses, not income
Step 6 Alternative Completion
Can complete Step 6 without maxing employer accounts IF:
Investing 25%+ of total income AND
Confident in retirement preparedness
Step 5 Income Limits
Roth IRA phases out at higher incomes
Consider backdoor Roth if over limits
A backdoor Roth IRA may only be feasible for those without any other pre-tax IRA assets
HSA requires a high-deductible health plan to contribute, but money can be spent from an HSA without being enrolled in a high-deductible health plan
Common Scenarios
"Should I pay off my 4% student loan or invest?"
The simple answer is to pay it off at Step 3 if it is considered high-interest debt under our student loan rules or pay it off at Step 9 if it is considered low-interest debt
"I can't afford to max everything"
Focus on current step only
The ultimate goal is to invest 25% of your gross income for retirement, and maximizing everything is only really required if you have a higher income
"What about kids' college?"
Saving for your child’s college falls into Step 8 of the FOO
"Put your oxygen mask on first" - plan and invest for your own future before worrying about the future of your children
Students have a lifetime ahead of them to pay off any potential student loan debt. There are no loans for retirement
"I'm self-employed"
Skip Step 2 (no employer match)
Skip Step 6 (no employer plan)
Consider Solo 401(k) for Step 6 equivalent
Account Priority Order
Emergency fund → High-yield savings
Employer match → 401(k)/403(b) to match
Tax-free growth → Roth IRA, HSA
Tax-deferred → Max 401(k)/403(b)
Taxable → Brokerage account for 25%+ goal
Critical Success Factors
Don't skip steps (except when they don't apply)
Complete current step before advancing
25% savings rate is the ultimate target
Debt-free by retirement is the end goal
2025 Contribution Limits
401(k)/403(b) employee contribution: $23,500 (under 50), $31,000 (50+)
Roth IRA: $7,000 (under 50), $8,000 (50+)
Traditional IRA: $7,000 (under 50), $8,000 (50+)
HSA: $4,300 (individual), $8,550 (family), +$1,000 (55+)
2026 Contribution Limits (Projected)
401(k)/403(b) employee contribution: $24,000 (under 50), $31,500 (50+)
Roth IRA: $7,000 (under 50), $8,000 (50+)
Traditional IRA: $7,000 (under 50), $8,000 (50+)
HSA: $4,750 (individual), $9,500 (family), +$1,000 (55+)
Integration Points
Works with any investment philosophy (index funds recommended)
Compatible with various account providers
Scales from $0 net worth to millionaire status
Adapts to different life stages and family situations
Integrates with 20/3/8 auto loan rule for debt classification
Links:
Your Ultimate Guide to Money Guy’s Financial Order of Operations - https://moneyguy.com/guide/foo/
This is where users can get detailed information on the FOO.

Free download of the FOO - https://moneyguy.com/resource/financial-order-of-operations/
Users can enter their email address and download a PDF of the FOO for free.

FOO Course - https://moneyguy.com/products/financial-order-of-operations/
This is the paid course for the FOO. It’s now $49, previously it was $249. It includes video lessons for each step of the FOO, covers frequently asked questions, comes with a 20-page PDF workbook, and access to an exclusive Facebook group.
20/3/8 Rule
About: The 20/3/8 rule is the Money Guy rule for financing a vehicle purchase. The rule is simple: anyone financing a vehicle should put down at least 20%, select a term of 3 years or less, and ensure all monthly car payments are less than 8% of gross income.
Common Questions
What if I have financed more than one car?
The total of your car payments should be no more than 8% of your gross income, and for all car purchases, you need to put down 20% and pay the loan off in 3 years or less.
I can get a better interest rate if I select a longer term, can I do that?
You can select a term longer than 3 years to get a better interest rate as long as you pay it off in 3 years or less.
Is it better to buy a car in cash?
Yes, if you can afford to pay for a car in cash, it is better than financing. Cars are quickly depreciating assets and can be financial liabilities. The 20/3/8 rule is designed to help those who aren’t able to buy a car outright understand what they can afford. If you can pay cash, do it.
Links
The Money Guy Ultimate Guide for 20/3/8, which includes much more information: https://moneyguy.com/guide/20-3-8-rule/
The Money Guy car affordability calculator that uses 20/3/8: https://moneyguy.com/tool/how-much-car-can-you-afford/
The Money Guy car-buying checklist, a free PDF download: https://moneyguy.com/resource/car-buying-checklist/
Basic Tax Information
2025 Tax Information
Income Taxes (2025)
Married Filing Jointly (MFJ)
$0 – $23,850 → 10% → 10% of your taxable income


$23,851 – $96,950 → 12% → $2,385 + 12% of the amount above $23,850


$96,951 – $206,700 → 22% → $11,157 + 22% of the amount above $96,950


$206,701 – $394,600 → 24% → $35,302 + 24% of the amount above $206,700


$394,601 – $501,050 → 32% → $80,398 + 32% of the amount above $394,600


$501,051 – $751,600 → 35% → $114,462 + 35% of the amount above $501,050


$751,601 & above → 37% → $202,155 + 37% of the amount above $751,600


Single
$0 – $11,925 → 10% → 10% of your taxable income


$11,926 – $48,475 → 12% → $1,193 + 12% of the amount above $11,925


$48,476 – $103,350 → 22% → $5,579 + 22% of the amount above $48,475


$103,351 – $197,300 → 24% → $17,651 + 24% of the amount above $103,350


$197,301 – $250,525 → 32% → $40,199 + 32% of the amount above $197,300


$250,526 – $626,350 → 35% → $57,231 + 35% of the amount above $250,525


$626,351 & above → 37% → $188,770 + 37% of the amount above $626,350


Definitions
Marginal Tax Rate: The rate at which your next dollar is taxed (your tax bracket).


Effective Tax Rate: Your actual tax rate, calculated as total taxes paid ÷ taxable income.


Tax Liability: The amount you owe in taxes before factoring in credits, deductions, and capital gains tax.


Tax Deductions (2025)
Tax Deduction: A decrease in the amount of your income that is subject to taxes.


Standard Deductions
Married Filing Jointly (MFJ): $30,000


Head of Household: $22,500


Single or Married Filing Separately (MFS): $15,000


Additional if 65+ or Blind: $1,600


Additional if 65+ or Blind (Single): $2,000


Contribution Limits (2025)
Retirement Accounts
Traditional/Roth IRA: $7,000 (or earned income)


+$1,000 catch-up (age 50+)


401(k), 457, TSP, Solo 401(k): $23,500


+$7,500 catch-up (50+)


+$11,250 catch-up (age 60–63)


SEP IRA: $70,000 (or 25% of compensation)


SIMPLE IRA: $16,500


+$3,500 catch-up (50+)


+$5,250 catch-up (age 60–63)


Other Accounts
529 Savings Plan: $19,000 without triggering gift tax


ABLE Plan: $19,000


FSA: $3,300


HSA: $4,300 single; $8,550 family


+$1,000 catch-up (age 55+)


Roth IRA Phaseouts (2025)
Income limits for contributions:
Single:


Less than $150,000 → Full contribution ($7,000)


$150,000 – $165,000 → Partial contribution


$165,000+ → Not eligible


Married Filing Jointly (MFJ):


Less than $236,000 → Full contribution ($7,000)


$236,000 – $246,000 → Partial contribution


$246,000+ → Not eligible


Married Filing Separately (MFS):


Less than $10,000 → Partial contribution


$10,000+ → Not eligible


Social Security (2025)
Social Security Tax Limit: $176,100


Taxes are at ordinary income rates


Taxation of Benefits:
Single


Below $25,000 → 0% taxed


$25,000 – $34,000 → Up to 50% taxed


$34,000+ → Up to 85% taxed


Married Filing Jointly (MFJ)


Below $32,000 → 0% taxed


$32,000 – $44,000 → Up to 50% taxed


$44,000+ → Up to 85% taxed
Money Guy Products
The Financial Order of Operations Course
Price: $49
It includes video lessons for each step of the FOO, covers frequently asked questions, comes with a 20-page PDF workbook, and access to an exclusive Facebook group.
The Know Your Number Course
Price: $99
The Know Your Number course is designed to help the user learn their retirement number, the amount of money they need to comfortably retire. It includes video lessons covering important concepts like inflation, investment return, and life expectancy, worksheets for the lessons covered, and a spreadsheet designed to calculate a retirement number for the user based on inputs including savings rate, income, amount saved, retirement expenses, inflation, and investment return.
The Net Worth Tool
Price: $29
The Net Worth Tool is a series of video lessons and a spreadsheet for the user to input an annual net worth statement and track useful metrics such as net worth over time, how quickly their net worth is increasing, their taxable buckets, and more.
The Roth IRA Guide
Price: $3.99
The Roth IRA Guide is an ebook with everything you need to know about Roth IRAs: how to contribute, what to invest in, how to select a provider, and more.

Money Guy Resources
Interactive Tools & Calculators
Compound Interest Calculator — Lets you input a starting balance, rate of return, contributions (monthly or annually), time horizon, compounding frequency, and contribution timing. It shows your future value and illustrates how compounding builds wealth over time.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/tool/compound-interest-calculator/


Wealth Multiplier Calculator — Shows how powerful each dollar invested today can become in the future. Uses assumptions (10% declining to 5.5% over time) and tells you how much to save monthly to hit $1M or $2M goals.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/tool/wealth-multiplier/


Car Affordability Calculator (20/3/8 Rule) — Based on Money Guy’s car-buying guideline: put down at least 20%, finance no longer than 3 years, and keep total car expenses below 8% of income. The calculator helps you figure out the maximum car you can afford under these rules.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/tool/car-affordability-calculator-20-3-8-rule/


How Much House Can You Afford? — Uses your income, down payment, interest rate, loan term, and other costs (insurance, taxes, HOA) to estimate the right-sized house you can buy without stretching your finances too thin.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/tool/how-much-house-can-you-afford/


Are You a Prodigious Accumulator of Wealth? — A self-assessment tool where you input your age, average income, and net worth. It compares your results to wealth benchmarks and classifies you as “Prodigious,” “Average,” or below expectations.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/tool/are-you-a-prodigious-accumulator-of-wealth/
Free Downloads
Financial Order of Operations: Maximize Your Army of Dollar Bills! — A one-page (and linked article) snapshot of Money Guy’s 9-step priority sequence for where to put your next dollar (employer match, emergency fund, pay down high-cost debt, etc.). Use it as a checklist to make consistent, high-impact money decisions.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/guide/foo/


Wealth Multiplier By Age — A worksheet that shows how much to save at different ages to reach targets like $1M, and demonstrates the multiplier effect of early investing (how each dollar can grow over time). Handy for quick “how much do I need to save now?” calculations.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/wealth-multiplier-by-age/


Home Buying Checklist — A practical pre-purchase checklist of questions and considerations to work through before buying a home (e.g., budget items, timing, inspection and ownership costs) so you don’t skip important checks.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/home-buying-checklist/


Car Buying Checklist — A step-by-step guide to buying a dependable, affordable car — covers affordability rules, negotiation tips, and items to inspect so the car doesn’t become a financial headache.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/car-buying-checklist/


Net Worth Template — A downloadable spreadsheet to record assets, liabilities, and calculate net worth over time; useful for annual tracking and visualizing progress toward long-term goals.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/net-worth-template/


How Much Should You Save? — A guide that helps you translate retirement replacement ratios into concrete savings targets and shows what portion of today’s income you’ll need to replace in retirement. Good for framing retirement-savings goals.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/how-much-should-you-save/


When Should I Claim Social Security? — A short guide outlining the main factors that affect the optimal Social Security claiming age (life expectancy, spouse benefits, work plans, tax/earnings interactions) to help you weigh tradeoffs.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/when-should-i-claim-social-security/


New Child Checklist — A planning checklist for new or expectant parents covering financial tasks and considerations (insurance, benefits, childcare, budgeting, education-savings basics) to reduce surprises.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/new-child-checklist/


What 1% More Can Do For You — A short, motivational piece showing how small improvements (saving or investing just 1% more) compound into meaningful long-term differences — useful for nudging behavior.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/what-1-more-can-do-for-you/


Got An Old 401(k)? — A practical guide outlining the options for old employer retirement accounts (leave it, roll to new employer, roll to IRA, or cash out) and pros/cons of each to make the right choice.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/got-an-old-401k/


Are You on Track to Be a Millionaire? — A worksheet/pdf that helps you assess whether your current savings and trajectory will get you to millionaire status by age 65 (and what to change if not).
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/are-you-on-track-to-be-a-millionaire/


What’s Your Money “Why?” — A short exercise (first download included with their Millionaire Mission material) to help you clarify the emotional and personal reasons behind your financial goals so planning stays aligned with purpose.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/whats-your-money-why/


Tax Guide 2024 — A year-specific tax planning guide summarizing key items, strategies, and considerations used by professionals for 2024 tax planning.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/tax-guide-2024/


Tax Guide 2025 — The updated 2025 edition of their tax planning guide with current-year considerations and planning reminders for taxpayers and advisers.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/tax-guide-2025/


8 Questions to Ask Your Financial Advisor — A checklist of eight strategic questions to use when vetting or interviewing advisors (covers fees, fiduciary status, investment philosophy, and client fit). Helpful for evaluating alignment and transparency.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/8-questions-to-ask-your-financial-advisor/


Are You a Prodigious Accumulator of Wealth? — A quick self-assessment (worksheet) that compares your net worth relative to income and age to classify whether you’re a “Prodigious Accumulator,” average, or behind expected benchmarks.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/are-you-a-prodigious-accumulator-of-wealth/


Net Worth by Age (Compared to Peers) — Benchmarks showing typical net worth by age cohorts so you can compare where you stand against peers and set realistic targets.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/net-worth-by-age-compared-to-peers/


The Money Guy Guide to Retirement — A concise guide with nine key retirement insights and planning considerations that the authors consider most important when building a retirement plan.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/the-money-guy-guide-to-retirement/


Refinance Guide — A how-to guide explaining when to consider refinancing a mortgage, how refinancing works, costs to watch, and common pitfalls to avoid. Useful if you’re evaluating refinancing decisions.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/refinance-guide/


10 Commandments of Creating Wealth — A distillation of the authors’ core principles for building wealth, drawn from decades of experience working with successful families — short, principle-driven rules to follow.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/10-commandments-of-creating-wealth/


Inside the Life of a Money Guy Millionaire — A look at typical behaviors, spending choices, and habits of a millionaire (what they prioritize and how they organize finances) to demystify wealthy lifestyles.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/inside-the-life-of-a-money-guy-millionaire/


5 Healthy Ways to Deal with Investment Uncertainty — Practical behavioral tips to manage fear and uncertainty in investing, helping you stay disciplined during market volatility.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/resource/5-healthy-ways-to-deal-with-investment-uncertainty/

Money Guy Ultimate Guides
Ultimate Guide to Mastering Your Money Mindset — Explores how to build a healthy relationship with money through habits, mindset shifts, and behaviors. It discusses overcoming negative money beliefs, cultivating abundance thinking, and reinforcing consistent financial behaviors (e.g. spending less than you make).
Link: https://moneyguy.com/guide/money-mindset/


Estate Planning Ultimate Guide — Covers the fundamentals of estate planning: wills, trusts, power of attorney, advance directives, and planning for incapacity or inheritance. Also highlights mistakes people often make and how to begin based on life stage.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/guide/estate-planning/


Budgeting – Money Guy’s Ultimate Guide — Positions budgeting not just as restriction but as a tool to free up resources for investing and growing wealth. Reviews popular budgeting frameworks (50/30/20, zero-based, etc.), gives tips for making a budget realistic, and shows when you might move from budgeting to cash-flow management.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/guide/budgeting/


401(k) – Your Ultimate Guide — (From the “Ultimate Guides” list) Aims to cover all the essentials around 401(k) accounts: starting, contributing, Roth vs traditional, withdrawals, loans, and common mistakes.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/guide/401k/


Paying for College – Money Guy’s Ultimate Guide — Addresses strategies for funding college (529 plans, scholarships, borrowing), planning timelines, and balancing debt vs savings.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/guide/college/


Money Guy’s Top Tax Planning Strategies — Presents the most effective approaches for minimizing your tax burden legally using tools like HSAs, tax-buckets (ordinary, long-term capital gains, qualified dividends), deductions, and credits. A guide to “tax avoidance” (as opposed to evasion).
Link: https://moneyguy.com/guide/tax-planning-strategies/


Retirement – Money Guy’s Ultimate Guide — Walks through critical decisions and strategies for retirement: how much you need, account mix, longevity risk, withdrawal strategies, and transitions into retirement. Includes their “nine insights” framework.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/guide/retirement/


The Truth about Different Types of Insurance — Explores insurance types (life, health, auto, liability, etc.), when each is needed, how to choose coverage, and pitfalls to avoid.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/guide/insurance/


Buying a House – Money Guy’s Ultimate Guide To Your Biggest Purchase — Helps you decide if and when to buy, strategize in volatile markets, navigate mortgage decisions, and avoid common purchasing mistakes. Also shows how to balance homeownership with other financial goals.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/guide/home-buying/


Average Net Worth By Age – How Americans Stack Up — Provides benchmark data for average and median net worth by age cohort, helping you compare where you are relative to peers and set realistic goals.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/guide/average-net-worth-by-age/


The 5 Levels of Wealth Explained — Defines a “wealth pyramid” or stages of wealth, from baseline security up to legacy. Helps you evaluate where you are and what’s needed to advance.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/guide/5-levels-of-wealth/


Wealth Multiplier | Your Comprehensive Guide — Deep dive into how compounding, incremental investing, and time interact — how much each dollar now can grow over time under different assumptions and how to accelerate wealth building.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/guide/wealth-multiplier/


How To Buy a Car the Right Way — Explains the 20/3/8 rule (20% down, 3-year loan max, and total car costs ≤ 8% of income), how to negotiate, and what features to prioritize.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/guide/buying-a-car/


What is the 20/3/8 Rule for Car Affordability? — Goes deeper into that specific rule: rationale, examples, and how to apply it based on your income and cost structure.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/guide/20-3-8-rule/


FOO – Your Ultimate Guide to Money Guy’s Financial Order of Operations — Explains the nine-step FOO system in detail, including ground rules, step-wise actions (deductibles, high-interest debt, employer match, etc.), and how to apply it in different life stages.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/guide/foo/
Money Guy Shows
The Money Guy Show
The Money Guy Show covers a wide range of personal finance topics with new episodes every Friday. The show is available in video format on YouTube and audio only on podcast platforms.
Link: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyGuyShow
Making a Millionaire
Brian and Bo analyze the financial lives of everyday people to offer guidance and customized plans. The episodes feature an in-depth look at a real couple’s or individual’s finances.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/show/making-a-millionaire/
Financial Advisors React
Brian and Bo react to different types of financial-related content from all corners of the internet. Much of the videos they react to are outrageous and not good financial advice, but Brian and Bo always provide their takes and explain the better way to do it.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/show/financial-advisors-react/
Financial Advisors Explain
These episodes are shorter, more scripted videos intended to be accessible to anyone. They cover many basic topics for those that aren’t necessarily personal finance experts.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/show/mini-shows/
Ask Money Guy
Ask Money Guy is a weekly livestream where Bo and Brian cover a topic, often a timely piece of personal finance news, and then answer questions from the YouTube chat live.
About The Money Guy
The Money Guy was originally conceived as a podcast in 2006 by the host and creator, Brian Preston. The Money Guy aims to bring order to your financial life and provide common-sense advice to the masses.
Since starting the podcast in 2006, The Money Guy has expanded to YouTube where they have over 600,000 subscribers, offers free PDF resources online, in-depth articles about personal finance, paid online courses, and a book by the creator, Brian Preston.
Bo Hanson joined Brian Preston on the show a few years after it was created and they have been co-hosts ever since.
Today, there is a support staff of writers and content creators working behind the scenes to make everything happen. The financial advising arm of the operation, Abound Wealth Management, provides advisory services to clients across the country.
About Brian Preston
Brian Preston is The Money Guy. He attended the University of Georgia and majored in accounting. In his first accounting job after college, he realized that the wonderful world of accounting wasn’t quite the right fit for him. He went out on his own shortly after the death of his father and later founded what we know today as The Money Guy Show and Abound Wealth Management.
Brian is a CPA and CFP with decades of experience helping people make smart money decisions. He lives in Franklin, Tennessee with his wife and daughter.
Brian Preston is the founder and host of The Money Guy Show, author of the New York Times bestselling book Millionaire Mission: A 9 Step System to Level-Up Your Finances and Build Wealth, and Managing Partner and co-founder of Abound Wealth Management (an RIA with over $1 billion in assets under management). With 25+ years of financial planning experience and over 617,000 followers across his social channels, Brian empowers people to implement simple financial strategies that go beyond common sense. He has become known for the nine-step system to building wealth, the Financial Order of Operations, which has helped millions of Americans to secure their financial future. Brian started his podcast as a passion project in 2006 with the intention of sharing his financial strategies with the masses. Fast forward, and The Money Guy Show is now its own enterprise. With 41M+ views and 9M+ downloads in 2023 alone, the show has helped millions of individuals build wealth and own their time through podcasts, YouTube videos, courses, social media posts, and more.
About Bo Hanson
Bo Hanson joined Brian Preston shortly after graduating college and hasn’t looked back ever since. Bo also graduated from the University of Georgia, but with a degree in financial planning. He co-hosts The Money Guy Show with Brian Preston and is partner at Abound Wealth Management.
Bo is a CFA and CFP with over a decade of experience helping people make smart money decisions. He lives in middle Tennessee with his wife and children.
Bo Hanson is the co-host of The Money Guy Show, and Partner and co-founder of Abound Wealth Management (an RIA with around $1 billion in assets under management). With over 14 years of experience, he still gets so excited to see a solid financial plan “click” for the people he serves. In 2011 Brian Preston decided to feature him on an episode of the show – and the rest was history. It’s hard to imagine The Money Guy Show without the incredible dynamic between Brian and Bo, and the fresh perspective and experience Bo continues to bring to the table each day.
Abound Wealth Management
Abound Wealth Management is an independent registered investment advisor (RIA) with clients across the country.
Abound Wealth provides fee-only advice from a team of Certified Financial Planners (CFPs).
The firm offers full-service financial advising, including tax planning, estate planning, investment management, retirement planning, and more.
Think of Abound Wealth like a financial co-pilot and full-service advisor. Many think of financial advisors as just investment advisors, but a true fiduciary financial advisor can help with every aspect of your financial life.
Who should work with Abound Wealth?
If your financial situation is too complex, you’ve grown your assets above $500-750k, or there’s not enough time in the day to focus on managing finances, it’s time to take our relationship to the next level. The Abound Wealth team specializes in well-thought-out, easy to understand plans for smart savers who are passionate about building financial independence. We’re fee-only fiduciary advisors who want to see you thrive! As your first step, fill out the form below and help us get to know you! An Abound team member will follow up and help you take the next step.
Abound Wealth Management is the financial advisory arm of The Money Guy Show. Many listeners and viewers of the show eventually become clients of Abound Wealth, in a process Brian Preston likes to call “The Abundance Cycle,” which means the free, valuable information given away on the show encourages viewers and listeners to later reciprocate and hire Abound Wealth as their financial advisor.
If someone is interested in learning more or becoming a client, they can be directed to this form to connect with a financial advisor: https://moneyguy.com/become-a-client/
Link to Abound Wealth Management: https://aboundwealth.com/
Millionaire Mission
Millionaire Mission is the first book by Brian Preston, creator of The Money Guy Show.
Millionaire Mission helps you account for your blind spots, overcome the fear of making wrong decisions, and take the guesswork out of what to do with your next dollar.
Taking control of your financial freedom is simpler than you think. In fact, your money should work harder than you do. Remember “PEMDAS” from grade school? It’s an acronym that helps break down complex math problems into simple steps. When it comes to managing your money, following a similar process—the Financial Order of Operations— will demystify your dollars and show you the way to build transformative wealth with the tools you already have available. Each chapter in the book breaks down a step in the Financial Order of Operations.
Link: https://moneyguy.com/millionairemission/