Dollars&Sense Nelson Financial Planning

ตอน

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  Market Optimism, Investor Caution & Better Money Decisions 17.08.2026 38นาที

  In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Rob Field and Joel Garris discuss how everyday financial decisions are shaped by both market conditions and personal money habits. They break down the latest market themes, including record highs, corporate earnings, interest rates, inflation, and why investors should review their portfolios even when things seem optimistic.Rob and Joel also explore how mindset and behavior can impact financial success—from impulse spending and emotional money decisions to simple strategies like the 24-hour rule, monthly money meetings, and creating friction before clicking “Buy Now.” Whether you are trying to stay disciplined in a changing market or build better financial habits, this conversation offers practical reminders for making thoughtful, intentional decisions with your money.💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  Before You Retire: Annuity Fine Print, Marriage Money Talks & Tax Traps 10.08.2026 38นาที

  Retirement planning is about more than simply saving enough money. In this episode of Dollars and Cents, Joel Garris breaks down several important issues retirees and pre-retirees should understand before making major financial decisions.First, Joel discusses the continued surge in annuity sales and why investors should be cautious before signing a long-term insurance contract. With record amounts of money flowing into annuities, he explains why these products are often complex, commission-driven, and full of fine print that can affect flexibility, access to money, and the true value of advertised guarantees.Then, the conversation shifts to retirement planning for couples. Joel shares several conversation starters every married couple should consider before retirement, including what retirement actually looks like, how each spouse thinks about money, when each person wants to retire, and where they want to live. These lifestyle expectations can be just as important as the financial projections.Finally, Joel covers tax surprises that can catch retirees off guard, including the taxation of Social Security, Medicare premium increases tied to income, required minimum distributions, and the surviving spouse tax trap. If you’re approaching retirement or already there, this episode offers practical reminders to ask better questions, plan ahead, and avoid costly surprises.💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  90-Day Student Loan Deadline! Plus, what the changing market leaders means for your portfolio. 03.08.2026 37นาที

  Major student loan repayment changes are here, and borrowers on the SAVE Plan may have only 90 days after receiving their notice to choose a new repayment option. In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Chet Cowart and Kristin Kalley break down what happened to the SAVE Plan, why doing nothing could automatically move borrowers into a Tiered Standard Repayment Plan, and how that choice could affect monthly payments, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and long-term financial planning. You’ll learn how Income-Based Repayment, the new Repayment Assistance Plan, and fixed repayment plans compare; why recertification matters; and what borrowers should consider before choosing a new plan. The episode also covers how market leadership may be shifting beyond big technology stocks and why diversification, valuation, and concentration risk matter for investors approaching retirement. Topics covered: SAVE Plan ending90-day repayment deadlinestudent loan repayment optionsIBR vs. RAPPublic Service Loan Forgivenessrecertification strategiestax filing considerationsmarket leadership changesAI and tech stock concentrationdiversificationretirement planning💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  Financial Literacy, FRS Changes & the Bilt Card: Smart Money Decisions for Renters and Parents 27.07.2026 38นาที

  In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris of Nelson Financial Planning breaks down three timely money topics that can impact everyday financial decisions. First, he looks at the Bilt card and whether earning rewards on rent is really worth it—or whether the credit card risks outweigh the marketing hook.Then, Joel explains key Florida Retirement System choices, including the Pension Plan, Investment Plan, DROP, and recent legislative updates affecting certain COLA benefits and DROP flexibility.Finally, he discusses the decline in financial literacy, the rise in adult children relying on parents for financial support, and practical steps families can take to build independence without putting retirement at risk.💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  Trump Accounts, Tax Breaks & Market Risk: What Families and Investors Need to Know 20.07.2026 39นาที

  The One Big Beautiful Bill has been in effect for a year — but are taxpayers actually seeing the benefits? In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris and Christina Lamb break down the latest tax changes, including larger standard deductions, new rules for tips and overtime, the senior deduction, charitable giving updates, and the expanded SALT deduction. They also explain the newly launched Trump Accounts, including who may qualify for the $1,000 government contribution, how these accounts compare to 529 plans and custodial Roth IRAs, and why families should understand the rules before contributing. Plus, Joel and Christina discuss current market headlines, strong earnings season results, rising margin debt, leveraged ETFs, cryptocurrency volatility, and why investors should stay disciplined even when markets feel strong. If you want to better understand how recent tax law changes, family savings options, and investment risks may affect your financial plan, this episode is for you. Topics covered include: Trump Accounts, the One Big Beautiful Bill, 2026 tax deductions, senior tax planning, charitable giving rules, SALT deduction changes, earnings season, leveraged ETFs, margin debt, bitcoin volatility, and long-term investment discipline. 💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  Summer Money Reset: Credit Card Debt, Cyber Scams & Financial Loose Ends 13.07.2026 39นาที

  Summer is the perfect time to pause, reset, and make sure your money is still working for you. In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Zach Keister and Kristin Kalley walk through practical midyear money moves that can help you review your financial goals, get organized, and protect your household from costly mistakes. First, they cover how to run a simple midyear money reset by reviewing what came in, what went out, what you owe, and what you have saved. Then, they discuss why credit card debt can quietly build during the summer, how to create a realistic payoff plan, and how small spending “speed bumps” can help reduce impulse purchases. The conversation also covers financial loose ends that are easy to put off but important to review, including beneficiary designations, old retirement accounts, estate planning documents, and account consolidation. Finally, Zach and Kristin shift into cybercrime awareness, sharing key takeaways from the FBI internet crime report, including how AI is making scams more convincing, why younger people are increasingly being targeted, how government impersonation scams are evolving, and why crypto fraud is driving major losses. If you are looking for practical personal finance tips, ways to pay down debt, or reminders to protect your family from financial scams, this episode is a great place to start. In this episode: midyear financial reset, credit card payoff strategies, budgeting tips, retirement account cleanup, beneficiary reviews, estate planning basics, cybercrime prevention, AI scams, government impersonation scams, and cryptocurrency fraud awareness.💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  Will Social Security Be Enough? Retirement Planning Beyond the Safety Net 06.07.2026 38นาที

  Is Social Security really running out? And if changes are coming, what should you be doing now to prepare for retirement? In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Rob Field and Chet Cowart of Nelson Financial Planning break down the latest Social Security Trustees Report and explain what it may mean for future retirees. They discuss why Social Security is not expected to disappear entirely, what could happen if no changes are made, and why it is more important than ever to build a retirement income plan that goes beyond one source of income. Rob and Chet also cover the importance of employer retirement plans, IRAs, Roth options, systematic investing, diversification, market expectations, AI and technology exposure, and how to answer the big retirement question: “Do I have enough?” Whether you are decades away from retirement or already thinking about turning your savings into income, this episode offers practical insight into how Social Security, investments, budgeting, taxes, risk tolerance, and lifestyle goals all work together in a successful retirement plan. In this episode, you’ll learn: What the latest Social Security Trustees Report says about the future of benefits Why Social Security should be one part of a broader retirement income strategy How workplace retirement plans, IRAs, Roth accounts, and brokerage accounts can support your long-term goals Why systematic investing and “paying yourself first” can help build strong financial habits How diversification can help manage risk during changing market conditions Why retirement planning is about more than reaching a single account balance If you have questions about Social Security, retirement income planning, or how your investment strategy fits into your long-term goals, contact Nelson Financial Planning. We’re here to help you make sense of life’s decisions involving your dollars.💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  Market Index Shifts, Vacation Budgeting, and Potential Tax Refund for Covid-era Penalties 29.06.2026 38นาที

  In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris of Nelson Financial Planning covers a packed lineup of financial topics—from market volatility and index changes to summer travel planning and a potentially significant tax refund opportunity.First, Joel discusses the recent uptick in market volatility, including how AI-related spending, semiconductor stocks, and market concentration are affecting investor conversations. He also explains the upcoming Russell 1000 Growth and Russell 1000 Value reconstitution, why major companies like Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, and Alphabet may shift within these indexes, and what that could mean for investors who own index funds or ETFs.Next, with summer vacation season in full swing, Joel shares practical ways to vacation smarter. From building travel into your monthly budget to choosing less expensive travel dates, considering less touristy destinations, planning for the full cost of the trip, and using credit card rewards carefully, this segment offers timely tips for enjoying a vacation without creating financial stress afterward.Finally, Joel breaks down a recent court decision, Kwong v. United States, that may create a potential refund opportunity for taxpayers who paid certain IRS penalties or interest related to tax years 2019 through 2022. He explains why the July 10 deadline matters, what a protective claim is, and why taxpayers may need to act to preserve their rights while the issue continues through the appeals process.Topics covered in this episode:Market volatility, AI spending, semiconductor stocks, and the Russell index reconstitutionSmart summer vacation planning and ways to reduce travel costsThe Kwong v. United States tax case and potential refund claims for IRS penalties and interest💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  Adult Children, Family Finance Tension, and Your Retirement Living 22.06.2026 39นาที

  As parents, it’s natural to want to help your children—especially when they’re facing financial challenges. But when that support becomes open-ended, it can create serious risks for your retirement, your emergency fund, your credit, and even your family relationships.In this episode of Dollars and Sense, Joel and Zach discuss five ways helping adult children can unintentionally hurt your retirement plan. They cover how financial support can affect family dynamics, create sibling tension, reduce retirement contributions, drain emergency savings, and increase debt or credit risk.The goal isn’t to stop helping your kids. It’s to help wisely—with structure, boundaries, and a clear understanding of how today’s generosity could impact tomorrow’s financial security.If you’re a parent, pre-retiree, or retiree trying to balance generosity with long-term financial stability, this conversation is for you.Thinking about moving to a 55+ community? Before you make the leap, there are a few important questions to ask yourself—because this decision is about much more than buying a new home.Joel and Zach discuss the lifestyle, financial, emotional, and long-term planning considerations that come with moving into a 55+ community. From downsizing and HOA fees to social activities, aging in place, and making sure you and your partner are on the same page, this conversation is designed to help you think clearly before making a major life transition.A 55+ community can offer convenience, connection, and a fresh start—but it may also require trade-offs. The key is knowing whether the community fits your finances, personality, lifestyle, and future needs.In this episode, we cover:Whether you’re truly ready for a lifestyle changeThe emotional and practical side of downsizingGiving up yardwork, gardening, and home maintenanceUnderstanding HOA fees and service-based costsSocial opportunities and privacy considerationsMaking sure you and your partner are alignedPlanning for aging in place and long-term comfortIf you’re retired, nearing retirement, or helping a loved one consider their next move, this episode will give you helpful questions to consider before choosing a 55+ community.💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  Discipline Over Drama: How Smart Investors Tune Out Hype 15.06.2026 37นาที

  In this episode, we look at three forces that can shape—or sabotage—an investor’s long-term success: exciting investment stories, nonstop financial headlines, and everyday money habits. From the hype around companies like SpaceX to the emotional pull of market news, we discuss why compelling stories and breaking headlines don’t always translate into smart portfolio decisions. We also explore the quiet habits that can help build wealth over time, including saving consistently, avoiding lifestyle creep, automating good decisions, and staying focused on a long-term financial plan. The big takeaway? Successful investing usually isn’t about reacting faster, finding the flashiest opportunity, or predicting the next market move. It’s about discipline, diversification, consistency, and making decisions that align with your goals—not your emotions.💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  Markets at Record Highs, Too Much Cash, and the Real Retirement Readiness Test 08.06.2026 37นาที

  Are today’s market highs a sign of strength—or a reason for caution? In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris breaks down what investors should pay attention to as stocks sit near record levels, inflation remains sticky, and interest rate uncertainty continues to shape the financial landscape.Joel also tackles one of the biggest quiet risks in personal finance right now: holding too much cash. While cash can feel safe, staying overly conservative for too long can create long-term consequences for growth, purchasing power, and retirement success.Then, in a practical and timely segment, Joel walks through a retirement readiness checklist—covering income planning, Social Security, taxes, health care, legal documents, and the lifestyle questions many people overlook.If you’ve been wondering whether to stay invested, move money out of cash, or prepare more intentionally for retirement, this episode offers clear, practical guidance to help you make smarter financial decisions.💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  Smart Financial Moves for New Parents and the Common Costly Misunderstood Tax Rules 01.06.2026 39นาที

  In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Kristin Kalley and Christina Lamb tackle two important financial topics that can have a big impact on your family’s future. First, they break down which accounts parents should prioritize when they have a baby, including 529 plans, custodial accounts, and newer savings opportunities that could help build long-term, tax-advantaged wealth for children. Then, they shift gears and unpack some of the most commonly misunderstood federal income tax rules—covering tax brackets, write-offs, refunds, Roth conversions, capital gains, and more.If you’ve ever wondered how to start saving for your child, or if you’ve heard tax advice that sounded a little too simple to be true, this episode will help you think more strategically and avoid costly mistakes.💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  7 Ways Retirees Accidentally Hurt Their Investments 25.05.2026 37นาที

  What investment habits can quietly hurt your retirement plan? In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Chet and Rob break down 7 common investor behaviors that can create unnecessary risk for retirees—from holding too much cash and trying to time the market to ignoring taxes, chasing yield, skipping rebalancing, overreacting to headlines, and failing to adjust your strategy over time.  If you are retired or getting close to retirement, this conversation will help you think more clearly about how your portfolio, withdrawal strategy, and long-term plan should work together. The goal is not perfection—it is discipline, clarity, and making thoughtful decisions that support your lifestyle over the long run.  In this episode, we cover: • Why too much cash can create inflation risk • How market timing can hurt long-term returns • Why tax-efficient withdrawals matter in retirement • The hidden danger of chasing yield • Why rebalancing is essential • How reacting emotionally to news can backfire • Why your investment plan should evolve over time  If you enjoy practical retirement planning conversations like this, be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone preparing for retirement or already living in it. 💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  The IRS Dirty Dozen & the Digital Shift: What Every Taxpayer Needs to Know 18.05.2026 38นาที

  Tax season may be over, but tax scams are not. In this episode, Joel Garris and Christina Lamb break down the IRS’s annual “Dirty Dozen” list of the most common tax scams targeting taxpayers right now—from phishing texts and AI-powered phone scams to fake charities, ghost preparers, identity theft, and misleading social media tax advice.They also unpack the IRS’s ongoing digital shift and explain what it means for refunds, payments, online accounts, and why taxpayers need to prepare now.If you want practical tips to protect your money, avoid costly mistakes, and stay ahead of major IRS changes, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  10 Essential Questions to Ask Your Financial Advisor 11.05.2026 38นาที

  Join Joel Garris on this insightful episode of Dollars & Sense, where he explores the top questions you should ask your financial advisor, planner, or wealth manager.  Discover why it’s crucial to understand how your advisor is compensated, the importance of the fiduciary standard, and how to evaluate investment philosophy, communication practices, continuity planning, portfolio details, risk management, goal tracking, beneficiary strategies, tax minimization, and how to reach your advisor during critical moments. Joel also shares practical guidance on how long to keep financial documents and the best ways to safely dispose of sensitive paperwork. Whether you’re preparing for your next review meeting or seeking clarity in your financial life, this episode is filled with actionable insights to help you make smarter decisions with your money. 💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  Graduation Season: Launching Financial Success for Grads & Parents 04.05.2026 38นาที

  Actionable Advice for New Grads and Their Families Ready to celebrate graduation season with a dose of real-world financial wisdom? 🎉 Join Certified Financial Fiduciaries™ Chet Cowart and Zach Keister for a lively, informative episode as they step in for Joel—who’s off attending his son’s college graduation in Boston. Whether you’re a proud parent or a fresh grad, this show is packed with practical, kitchen-table conversations you need right now! From budgeting basics and building a financial foundation to setting healthy boundaries and tackling student loans, Chet and Zach deliver four actionable tips for parents and four smart financial moves for graduates. Plus, discover why the Dollars & Sense book and companion workbook make the perfect gift for anyone starting their adult journey. Tune in for a fun, approachable guide to launching your financial future—no jargon, just real talk.💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  Your Will Doesn’t Decide Who Gets Your Money + Give More to Charity & Pay Less in Taxes 27.04.2026 38นาที

  In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris tackles two of the most misunderstood—and most impactful—areas of financial and estate planning.First, Joel breaks down a common myth: your will does not control where most of your money goes. Instead, beneficiary designations quietly determine who inherits retirement accounts, life insurance, annuities, and many investment and bank accounts. With trillions of dollars passing outside of wills every year, Joel explains why outdated or overlooked beneficiary forms can create costly mistakes—and what simple steps you can take today to make sure your assets end up exactly where you intend.Next, Joel dives into one of his favorite planning strategies: Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs). If you’re charitably inclined and over age 70½, this powerful tool allows you to support causes you care about while significantly reducing your tax burden. Joel walks through how QCDs work, the rules you must follow, common pitfalls to avoid, and why they can be far more tax‑efficient than writing a check—especially when it comes to required minimum distributions, Medicare premiums, and Social Security taxation.Along the way, Joel also shares timely market perspective during earnings season, highlights the importance of staying organized with financial documents, and explains how thoughtful planning can reduce stress, cost, and conflict for the people you love.If you’ve ever wondered whether your estate plan is really doing what you think it is—or how to give charitably in the most tax‑smart way—this episode is packed with practical insights you won’t want to miss.💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  Tax Season Reality Check + Market Whiplash: What Your Refund (and Rate) Really Means 20.04.2026 39นาที

  April 15 is in the rearview mirror—but what did we actually learn from this tax season? In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris and CPA/CFP® Kristin Castello break down the biggest takeaways we saw on real tax returns, plus what the latest IRS/Treasury stats may be signaling for households heading into the rest of the year. 🧾💡  We also connect the dots to the markets: a reminder of how quickly headlines can swing sentiment—and why consistency matters when volatility shows up. 📊  In this episode: • What’s driving bigger average refunds this year—and why a big refund isn’t always “good news” 💰 • New/expanded deductions people asked about most (and where the fine print matters): “no tax on overtime” & “no tax on tips” ⏱️🍽️ • Enhanced senior deduction + standard vs. itemized trends 👵🧾 • The tax-bracket myth: marginal tax rate vs. effective tax rate (and why most people pay less than they think) 📉 • Market volatility, recoveries, and the value of staying disciplined 💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  Tax-Smart Moves, Powerful HSAs, and the New Retirement 13.04.2026 38นาที

  This episode covers three topics that can have a big impact on your financial future: how to avoid a surprise tax bill next year, why a Health Savings Account (HSA) may be one of the most underutilized retirement assets, and how retirement planning has changed (it’s not your parents’ retirement anymore). In this episode: Why the IRS is a “pay-as-you-go” system—and what to change if you owed this year Withholding vs. quarterly estimated payments (and when each applies) Social Security and retirement distributions: common tax withholding blind spots HSAs explained: the triple tax advantage (and why it matters) Key HSA rules before and after age 65, including Medicare timing Why retirement may last 30–40 years—and why flexibility beats a “perfect forecast” 💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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  Tax Mistakes, IRS Tips, Sports Gambling & Market Insights 06.04.2026 38นาที

  Join Joel Garris and Rob Field for a lively Easter edition of Dollars & Sense! In this episode, we kick things off celebrating Easter and exploring its unique mix of Christian tradition and modern-day commercialization (think chocolate bunnies and Easter egg hunts). Then, with the tax deadline just days away, Joel and Rob share practical tips to avoid common IRS mistakes that could cost you time, money, and peace of mind. Learn how simple errors like name changes, unreported income, and ignored IRS letters can lead to big headaches—and how to stay off the IRS’s radar. Plus, it's Final Four weekend! The hosts dive into the explosive growth of online sports gambling, revealing eye-opening statistics about success rates, average losses, and the impact on personal finances. Discover why betting and investing are not the same—and how young generations can build wealth by focusing on fundamentals, not quick wins. Discover fun Easter history facts & traditions IRS tips: Extensions, payments, direct deposit & more Sports betting vs. investing—know the difference! Market recap: 2026 Q1, oil shocks, and the importance of portfolio diversification Key Takeaways: ✔️ Details matter—whether you’re filing taxes, investing, or betting ✔️ Diversification and consistency are essential in uncertain markets ✔️ Sports gambling rarely beats true long-term investing #IRSProblems #FinancialPlanning #SportsBetting #InvestingTips #FinalFour #Diversification #PersonalFinance 💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.About Joel Garris:Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.➡️ CONNECT WITH US: Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanningTwitter: /nelsonfinplanInstagram: /nelson_financial_planningYouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202