Ask Ralph - Christian Finance
500 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 10 hours ago - ★★★★ - 7 ratingsAre you a Christian longing to honor God in every aspect of your life, including your finances? The Ask Ralph Podcast is your guide to finding financial freedom, making wise money decisions, and aligning your resources with your faith. Your host, Ralph Estep, Jr., brings a unique combination of expertise and genuine experience to the table. He's an accountant, a business coach, a podcast host, an author, a farmer – but above all, a husband, father, and a man seeking to follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
Ralph has been through the highs and lows of managing money - he's made mistakes, learned powerful lessons, and wants to share that journey with you. Expect a refreshing blend of practical advice and Biblical principles. We'll cover everything from creating a rock-solid budget and ditching debt to building ethical businesses and exploring the transformative power of generous giving. Whether you're a business owner yearning to integrate your faith into your work, or simply a person desiring wise stewardship of what you've been given, this podcast is for you. Get ready to ditch financial stress, gain clarity and confidence, and use your resources to fulfill God's calling in your life.
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Episodes
Student Loans and Bankruptcy - Updated Rules
December 09, 2023 16:00 - 6 minutes - 16.3 MBJoin Ralph Estep Jr., on today's show as he discusses some Biden Administration updates to the laws related to including student loan debt in bankruptcy. Ralph discusses the new details related to these updated rules.
Retirement Savings for Gig Workers and the Self-Employed
December 08, 2023 16:00 - 8 minutes - 17.9 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., on today's podcast as he explores some very efficient retirement savings for Gig workers and the self-employed. These are some great opportunities for retirement savings.
How to Give A Boost to your Charitable Giving
December 07, 2023 16:00 - 6 minutes - 16.7 MBJoin Ralph Estep Jr., on today's podcast as he provides some efficient ways to boost charitable giving and get some fantastic year-end tax savings.
Taxpayer Proactive Year-End Tax Planning
December 06, 2023 16:00 - 16 minutes - 25.9 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., as he explores some great year-end tax planning strategies. Ralph will give some great ideas for taxpayers to reduce or limit their tax liability.
Why We Should All Support Small Businesses
December 05, 2023 16:00 - 7 minutes - 16.9 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., on the podcast where he explorers the importance of supporting small businesses. Ralph discusses the critical aspects of how small business is a life-line to our economy and the communities where they operate.
Exploring the Back Door Roth IRA
December 04, 2023 18:00 - 7 minutes - 16.9 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., on today's podcast as he explores the Back Door Roth IRA. Ralph explains what it is and how may benefit from it. Don't miss today's episode and the potential tax benefits of the Back Door IRA.
How Could I Owe Taxes in 2023 and How Do I Prepare?
December 03, 2023 18:00 - 14 minutes - 23.4 MBJoin Ralph Estep Jr, today as he explores the potential reasons you may owe taxes for 2023. Ralph reviews some potential situations which could lead to a dreaded tax bill and how to prepare for tax filing.
The Latest News on the IRS 1099-K Reporting Changes
December 02, 2023 18:00 - 12 minutes - 21.9 MBJoin Ralph Estep Jr., on today's show as he explores some changes to the form 1099-K and explains how this not only a business issue, but will affect anyone who uses cash apps or other exchange platforms. Ralph explains the newest IRS press release and prepares listeners to it's implementation.
Part 3 - Nine Common Things That People Avoid Because of Cost and Some Great Money Saving Alternatives
December 01, 2023 18:10 - 16 minutes - 25.4 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., as he wraps up his three part series on Nine Common Things That People Avoid Because of Cost and Some Great Money Saving Alternatives. Ralph explores the final areas where listener will save money and contine to enjoy their lives.
Part 2 - Nine Common Things That People Avoid Because of Cost and Some Great Money Saving Alternatives
November 30, 2023 18:00 - 16 minutes - 25.1 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., as he continues his three part series on great money saving alternatives that allow you t continue enjoy life and do the things you thought you could no longer afford to do. Ralpj gives practical ideas to save money and still enjoy your life.
Part 1 - Nine Common Things That People Avoid Because of Cost and Some Great Money Saving Alternatives
November 29, 2023 18:00 - 15 minutes - 24.5 MBJoin Ralph Estep Jr., as he launches Part 1 of a three part series on the Nine Common Things That People Avoid Because of Cost and Some Great Money Saving Alternatives. Ralph explores money saving options to allow you to continue to enjoy the things which you thought might have become too expensive.
10 Ways to Save Money During the Holiday Season
November 28, 2023 18:00 - 9 minutes - 19.4 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr, on today's podcast as Ralph explores 10 Ways to Save Money During the Holiday Season. Ralph provides some very practical advice about how to have a stress-free and hopefully debt-free holiday season.
Consequences of Ignoring Your Credit Score
November 27, 2023 18:00 - 13 minutes - 22.7 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., on today's podcast as he explores the consequences of ignoring your credit score. Ralph offers practical advice on how to improve your credit score and explores the costs of not honoring your credit.
The Financial Impact of Putting a Loved One in a nursing home
November 26, 2023 18:00 - 9 minutes - 18.7 MBJoin Ralph Estep Jr., on today's podcast as he explores the financial impact of putting a loved one in a nursing home. Ralph explores the difficult financial decisions which may need to be made during this highly emotional time and details the financial impact of these often overlooked impacts.
Top 10 Year End Business Tax Savings Ideas
November 25, 2023 18:00 - 9 minutes - 18.9 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., on today's podcast as he explores the Top 10 Year End Business Tax Savings Ideas. If you are a business owner, Ralph will share critical steps you may be able to take at year-end to save on your taxes.
Listener Questions about Personal Finance
November 24, 2023 18:34 - 9 minutes - 19.5 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., on today's podcast as he reviews some listener submitted questions about personal finance. Ralph provides powerful information about budgeting, saving and retirement planning.
Ask Ralph Relaunch
November 22, 2023 18:25 - 24 minutes - 32.9 MBThe Ask Ralph podcast relaunch. Join Ralph Estep, Jr., as he welcomes everyone back the podcast. During this show Ralph takes listener questions about personal finances. Ralph explores business year-end tax savings strategies and finally Ralph has a frank discussion about the financial impact of nursing or skilled care for a loved one. Join Ralph as he makes the complex simple with practical advice.
The Ask Ralph podcast is coming back!
November 17, 2023 23:18 - 11 seconds - 175 KBThe Ask Ralph podcast is coming back! We are working on some great new content.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
June 04, 2019 16:00Did you know that the Ask Ralph podcast is available to download directly from Apple Podcasts? Got to your Apple Podcast app and search "Ask Ralph" today. Catch up on episodes, subscribe for new content ever week, and rate us to let us know how we are doing! Link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-ralph/id1301508993?mt=2
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
June 04, 2019 16:00Did you know that the Ask Ralph podcast is available to download directly from Apple Podcasts? Got to your Apple Podcast app and search "Ask Ralph" today. Catch up on episodes, subscribe for new content ever week, and rate us to let us know how we are doing! Link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-ralph/id1301508993?mt=2
Stop Wasting Time at Work
April 30, 2019 14:00 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBA recent study taken by American workers found that only 11% of the respondents were able to complete all of their given tasks within the workday. A startling statistic, but one that rings understandable to most of us. On today's show, Ralph outlines some strategies for reducing delay, procrastination and time-wasting at work that you can take with you through life. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like...
Estimated Tax Payments
April 25, 2019 14:00 - 9 minutes - 7.88 MBThe American tax system operates on a "pay as you go" basis, meaning, the IRS wants taxes paid as you earn your income, not after. For employees, this means payroll withholding. For retirees, this means opting for withholding on Social Security and retirement distributions. For the self-employed or operator outside of normal withholding system, this can mean making estimated tax payments throughout the year. On today's show, Ralph discusses how to calculate and when to pay your estimated tax...
An Innocent Spouse
April 23, 2019 14:00 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBWhen filing a joint federal tax return, the law holds you and your spouse jointly responsible for the entire tax liability. What this means is that the IRS may collect the tax due from the both of you or either one of you, and is true regardless of future divorce or separation. In some instances, you can file for what is referred to as innocent spouse relief with the IRS. On today's show, Ralph discusses why innocent spouse relief may be an option, how to file and what it can mean for your f...
Median Americans
April 18, 2019 18:36 - 9 minutes - 7.92 MBEver wonder how you and your household compares with spending to the average American? We all know what the biggest expenses, i.e. housing, groceries, utilities and health insurance. But variations in these core expenses and a wide range of others varying based on your location, age and other demographic groups. On today's show, Ralph talks spending and how average Americans push their pennies! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at askra...
Avoid These 4 Mistakes in Tax Filing
April 13, 2019 14:00 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBAs Tax Day inches closer and closer, it can be tempting to rush through your tax returns while preparing, but we urge you, that could be a bad idea. Rushing tends to result in mistakes, over justifications, lapses and a wide array of errors that can slow the processing of your tax return, resulting in delayed tax refunds or worse, a second glance from the IRS. On today's show, Ralph outlines 4 foul proof tips for avoid some of the most common mistakes this filing season. Submit your questi...
The Great Refund Debate
April 11, 2019 14:00 - 9 minutes - 7.92 MBAre your personal finances a highly-organized, well-oiled machine? Or is there a lot of room for improvement? The answer to that question is more important than you might think, especially during tax time. Most people anxiously await a big check from Uncle Sam in April, but it turns out a giant tax refund might not be so great after all. On today's show, Ralph discusses the pros and cons towards getting a big refund at tax time! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at ...
Tips for Choosing a Tax Preparer
April 11, 2019 02:15 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBMore than 50% of taxpayers hire a professional to prepare their taxes. With that being said, hiring a profession doe not absolve you of your legal responsibility for what is on your tax return. Mistakes and their consequences are the responsibility of the individual, married couple, or business whose name appears at the top of the return. On today's show, Ralph reviews his tips for picking the best tax preparer this filing season! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet ...
Do You Need to File a Tax Return?
April 04, 2019 14:00 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBYou are required to file a federal income tax return if your income is above a certain level. That level varies quite a bit, depending on your filing status, your age and the kind of income you’re reporting. On today's show, Ralph outlines whether or not you need to file a tax return this 2019 tax season. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or v...
Home Ownership Tax Myths
April 04, 2019 00:31 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBHome ownership is a lifelong dream for millions, and one that comes with its own unique set of pleasures and challenges. But for all the true benefits of homeownership, there are an equal number of myths about what it is like to own and maintain property. On today's show, Ralph debunks some important home ownership myths you need to know! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow u...
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
April 02, 2019 16:00Did you know that the Ask Ralph podcast is available to download directly from Apple Podcasts? Got to your Apple Podcast app and search "Ask Ralph" today. Catch up on episodes, subscribe for new content ever week, and rate us to let us know how we are doing! Link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-ralph/id1301508993?mt=2
Business Versus Hobby
April 02, 2019 14:30 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBYou have started a business and you aren't making a profit. You've heard that the IRS won't accept business deductions if it considered your business a "hobby", but what it the truth? On today's show, Ralph discusses how the IRS distinguishes between legitimate business and hobby activities, for the purpose of taxes and what that means for you. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and fo...
Tale of the Ghost Tax Preparer
March 28, 2019 14:30 - 9 minutes - 7.92 MBGhost preparers, according to the IRS, “look to make a fast buck by promising a big refund or charging fees based on a percentage of the refund. These scammers hurt honest taxpayers who are simply trying to do the right thing and file a legitimate tax return.” So how do you figure out if you are being scammed by your preparer? On today's show, Ralph discusses the steps on how to not get "ghosted" when choosing a tax preparation service. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, twee...
Respond Don't React
March 28, 2019 00:24 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBOn today's show, Ralph talks about his experience with responding and not reacting during interactions and how we all can benefit from practice in taking a breath, thinking logically and responding appropriately. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph's tea...
VA Home Loans
March 22, 2019 00:04 - 9 minutes - 7.92 MBThe share of service members using VA mortgage loans instead of conventional ones to purchase their first homes more than doubled from before the housing crisis hit to after the dust settled, according to a report from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. On today's show, Ralph discusses exactly what a VA home loan is, how to use one and what benefits surround their use in home financing. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at askral...
How Scammers Steal Your Money
March 15, 2019 04:55 - 9 minutes - 7.88 MBCybercrime has been a lucrative business for swindlers since the early days of the internet. Despite the advancements in security, hackers and criminals will always be one-step ahead of us. That is why it is important for us to become knowledgeable on the common ways that scammers use to steal your hard-earned money so that we can thwart any threats before they become a problem. On today's show, Ralph discusses how scammers and grifters con you out of your money in today's new technology age...
3 Reasons to Hire a Tax Professional this Year
March 13, 2019 00:01 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBSleepless nights, panic attacks and pounding headaches are feelings that are far too familiar for taxpayers during the spring. But how do you know if you really need the help of a professional tax preparer? On today's show, Ralph discusses reasons why you may need to recruit a tax preparer this year. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit ...
Radio Broadcast for March 9, 2019
March 08, 2019 21:21Check out this Saturday's radio broadcast at 8:00AM on WILM 1450 (https://wilm.iheart.com/) in Wilmington, WDOV 1410 (https://wdov.iheart.com/) in Dover and live on iHeart Radio. On this week's show, Ralph discusses when you may not need to file a return, outlines tips for finding a tax preparer and debunks some common homeowner tax myths. For more content, subscribe to our podcast on Apple podcasts or wherever you listen! You can also like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter (@askral...
IRS Audit Red Flags for TY18
March 08, 2019 01:49 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBWhile the overall risk of being audited is generally low, new changes resulting from the enacted Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) could impact your susceptibility of being audited this tax season. On today's show, Ralph discusses some of the most impactful red flags to be aware of this tax year 2018 filing season. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia)...
Why File Early?
March 06, 2019 01:37 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBWhether you do them yourself or pay someone else to do them for you, preparing your income taxes is probably not one of your favorite chores. Knowing you have a refund coming can make the whole process somewhat easier, but gathering your paperwork and ensuring the forms are completed correctly can still be both time-consuming and stressful. On today's show, Ralph discusses the reasons for why it is best to file early when filing your tax returns. Submit your questions or ideas for future s...
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
March 05, 2019 17:00Did you know that the Ask Ralph podcast is available to download directly from Apple Podcasts? Got to your Apple Podcast app and search "Ask Ralph" today. Catch up on episodes, subscribe for new content ever week, and rate us to let us know how we are doing! Link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-ralph/id1301508993?mt=2
Interview with Stefan "The Freak" Talabisco
March 03, 2019 02:20 - 17 minutes - 14.4 MBA special bonus for our listeners is the full interview with Stefan "The Freak" Talabisco to talk with Ralph about his life as a veteran and up and coming professional boxer. With goals of boxing in venues far and wide, he reminisces about his start, what he loves most and his upcoming event, Saturday March 30, 2019, for the Night of Live Boxing! at the Hockessin Pal Center. For more information, check out his Facebook (@frankiepaul) or purchase tickets by calling 609-868-4243. For more ...
Radio Broadcast for March 2, 2019
March 01, 2019 22:03Check out this Saturday's radio broadcast at 8:00AM on WILM 1450 (https://wilm.iheart.com/) in Wilmington, WDOV 1410 (https://wdov.iheart.com/) in Dover and live on iHeart Radio. On this week's show, Ralph sits down to talk with Stefan "The Freak" Talabisco to talk about his life as a veteran and up and coming professional boxer. With goals of boxing in venues far and wide, he reminisces about his start, what he loves most and his upcoming event, Saturday March 30, 2019, for the Night of L...
Tax Changes for Military Members
February 28, 2019 15:00 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBRecent changes in tax law mean that many in uniform could see big returns when they file their 2018 taxes. On today's show, Ralph discusses how many services members and their families are likely to see substantial reductions in their overall federal taxes for 2018. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more info...
Elizabeth Warren's Wealth Tax
February 27, 2019 21:39 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBIs a tax on the net worth of the ultrarich a good idea? Under Senator Warren’s plan, the tax rate on wealth would be two per cent, but it would only apply to American households worth at least fifty million dollars. On today's show, Ralph discusses his thoughts on this presidential contender's plan to tax the rich. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphm...
Radio Broadcast for February 23, 2019
February 22, 2019 18:33Check out this Saturday's radio broadcast at 8:00AM on WILM 1450 (https://wilm.iheart.com/) in Wilmington, WDOV 1410 (https://wdov.iheart.com/) in Dover and live on iHeart Radio. On this week's show, Ralph discusses how to determine whether your hobby is a business and your business is a hobby, how to avoid the ghost tax preparer and then has a quick talk on how to respond, not react. For more content, subscribe to our podcast on Apple podcasts or wherever you listen! You can also like...
Small Business Retirement Plans
February 22, 2019 01:26 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBWhat is the best retirement plan for a self-employed person? Which is the best retirement plan for a small business owner? More importantly, which is the right retirement plan for you – as a business owner? On today's show, Ralph discusses how to find the best retirement plan for you and your small business. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) o...
Tax Tips for Grads
February 19, 2019 22:40 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBThe first few years after college graduation are full of milestones. In addition to getting your degree, starting your career, moving out from your parents home and starting your new life, you will eventually need to file your taxes. On today's show Ralph discusses what graduates should take special note of when preparing their returns this year and going forward. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like u...
Tax Refund Hype
February 16, 2019 23:34 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBA special bonus for our listeners is a special segment from Ralph discussing all of the hype surrounding tax refunds during this 2018 tax season as aired originally on our radio broadcast from Saturday February 16, 2019at 8:00AM on WILM 1450 (https://wilm.iheart.com/) in Wilmington, WDOV 1410 (https://wdov.iheart.com/) in Dover and live on iHeart Radio. For more content, subscribe to our podcast on Apple podcasts or wherever you listen! You can also like us on Facebook, follow us on Twit...
Paying off Your Mortgage Early
February 15, 2019 00:34 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBPaying off your mortgage before the loan is up might feel light years away, but it is doable if you plan your finances right. If you pay off your mortgage early, you could save a lot of money on interest. On today's show Ralph discusses how to and why paying off your mortgage early might be right for you! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or v...
Improve Your Finances In 2019
February 12, 2019 15:00 - 9 minutes - 7.9 MBWhether you plan to make some New Year’s resolutions or not, there’s no better time than the beginning of the year to review your finances. On today's show, Ralph talks finances and how to get better at them in the new year! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with...