KPC Smart Money artwork

KPC Smart Money

140 episodes - English - Latest episode: 2 months ago -

Each week, Karin and Kevin Christ will look at important issues about financial planning. They will use their experience as independent financial advisors to help leave you smarter and more informed about retirement.

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Episodes

Episode 90: How to Stop Feeling Overwhelmed - Part 2

February 24, 2022 11:00 - 11 minutes - 16.3 MB

We have all experienced feeling overwhelmed at times.  Is this a rare occurrence for you or a constant state of being?  Listen over the next 2 weeks to find out what can cause these overwhelmed feelings, and how to overcome. Key Takeaways: Don't be a perfectionist Take a break  Practice gratitude Practice kindness

Episode 89: How to Stop Feeling Overwhelmed - Part 1

February 18, 2022 16:28 - 13 minutes - 17.9 MB

We have all experienced feeling overwhelmed at times.  Is this a rare occurrence for you or a constant state of being?  Listen over the next 2 weeks to find out what can cause these overwhelmed feelings, and how to overcome. Key Takeaways: Feeling overwhelmed can become a vicious cycle Challenge your limiting beliefs Focus on outcomes & prioritize Ask for Help!

Episode 88: The Art of Kindness - Part 2

February 10, 2022 11:00 - 12 minutes - 17.3 MB

It seems to us that kindness has suffered recently with the constant barrage of bad news and COVID uncertainties.  People seem to be focused on each other's differences instead of our common humanity.  We hope this two-part series will bring the focus back on being kind.  We will talk about all the benefits of simple kindness, to you and to others. Key takeaways: Kindness is teachable and contagious Positive hormones released in your brain when you are kind: Oxytocin, serotonin, dopamine ...

Episode 87: The Art of Kindness - Part 1

February 03, 2022 11:00 - 12 minutes - 17.3 MB

It seems to us that kindness has suffered recently with the constant barrage of bad news and COVID uncertainties.  People seem to be focused on each other's differences instead of our common humanity.  We hope this two-part series will bring the focus back on being kind.  We will talk about all the benefits of simple kindness, to you and to others. Key takeaways: Kindness improves self-esteem, empathy, compassion and enhances relationships. Kindness positively changes your brain by releas...

Episode 86: You Are What You Think - Part 3

January 13, 2022 11:00 - 12 minutes - 16.8 MB

Based on the scientific work of Dr. Caroline Leaf, we explore the power of your thinking and how it affects every part of your life. In this 3 part series, we highlight some of the ways your thinking impacts you and how you CAN choose to "Train Your Brain" (the name of one of Dr. Leaf's books). If you like what you hear in the next few podcasts, we encourage you to search out more. Key takeaways: You were not designed to go through life fearful What you think rewires your brain We are...

Episode 85: You Are What You Think - Part 2

January 06, 2022 11:00 - 12 minutes - 17.5 MB

Based on the scientific work of Dr. Caroline Leaf, we explore the power of your thinking and how it affects every part of your life. In this 3 part series, we highlight some of the ways your thinking impacts you and how you CAN choose to "Train Your Brain" (the name of one of Dr. Leaf's books).  If you like what you hear in the next few podcasts, we encourage you to search out more. Key takeaways: Multitasking is a myth What your mind creates only your mind can take away How you think...

Episode 84: You Are What You Think - Part 1

December 30, 2021 11:00 - 13 minutes - 18.2 MB

Based on the scientific work of Dr. Caroline Leaf, we explore the power of your thinking and how it affects every part of your life. In this 3 part series, we highlight some of the ways your thinking impacts you and how you CAN choose to "Train Your Brain" (the name of one of Dr. Leaf's books).  If you like what you hear in the next few podcasts, we encourage you to search out more. Key takeaways: If you realized how powerful your thoughts are, you would never think a negative thought aga...

Episode 83: Not Your Parent's Inflation

December 22, 2021 11:00 - 12 minutes - 16.8 MB

The current inflation increase is causing concern for many Americans.  Is this short lived or will it continue? While the price of consumer goods, food, and gasoline have sharply increased, has it really increased as much as the negative reaction from consumers? Key takeaways: Consumer confidence is dropping quickly Does the "misery index" match the data on inflation Who should be worried? Why is the stock market still rising during this increase in inflation?

Episode 82: Should You Own Gold or Silver

December 16, 2021 11:00 - 8 minutes - 11.9 MB

We are often asked if Gold and Silver are a good addition to investments.  There is a lot of confusion about how to own it.  We will talk about the different ways to have Gold and Silver investments and the pros and cons of owning Gold and Silver. Key takeaways: Does Gold and Silver help hedge against inflation? Gold and Silver ETFs Should I own physical precious metals? What to watch out for

Episode 81: Givers, Takers & Matchers - Part 2

December 09, 2021 11:00 - 11 minutes - 15.3 MB

We all know people that are givers and takers.  Do you know what a Matcher is?  And what type of reciprocity style are you?  This week we will talk about each type and which ones are the most successful. Key takeaways: 5-minute favors Ask for help Give in "chunks"  Do favors

Episode 80: Givers, Takers & Matchers - Part 1

December 02, 2021 11:00 - 12 minutes - 17.6 MB

We all know people that are givers and takers.  Do you know what a Matcher is?  And what type of reciprocity style are you?  This week we will talk about each type and which ones are the most successful.   Key takeaways: Definition of Takers, Givers & Matchers Which ones are more successful at work Selfless & Otherish givers Tips for being a successful giver

Episode 79: Feel Younger in Retirement

November 18, 2021 11:00 - 12 minutes - 17.4 MB

Retirees can often feel lost after retiring.  They lose structure, identity, purpose, power and relationships during retirement. But your best years can be the ones ahead. You just need to know where to look. Key takeaways: Engage with people of all ages Stand up for what you believe in Make a difference in someone else's life Follow the dreams you didn't have to before

Episode 78: 5 Advantages to Investing in your 20s

November 11, 2021 11:00 - 12 minutes - 16.6 MB

People in their 20s can think they are not financially stable enough to start investing.  They may have student debt, low salaries, or just don't know how to start.  The advantages to start young are significant though. Key takeaways: Time gives you the power of compounding You can take more risk with years of earning ahead of you Take advantage of tech savvy resources for investing and learn from your successes and failures Invest in yourself by learning advanced skills that can ea...

Episode 77: Financial Planning Tips for Beginners - Part 2

November 04, 2021 10:00 - 12 minutes - 16.6 MB

Many people would like to be more active in managing their budget and financial plan.  With all the advice and options available however, this can seem overwhelming.  In this 2-part series, we will share some tips to on how to get started. Key takeaways: Pay yourself first Check your credit score Organize your financial records Start spending less money

Episode 76: Financial Planning Tips for Beginners - Part 1

October 28, 2021 10:00 - 12 minutes - 17.1 MB

Many people would like to be more active in managing their budget and financial plan.  With all the advice and options available however, this can seem overwhelming.  In this 2-part series, we will share some tips to on how to get started. Key takeaways: Start with the end in mind Know where your money goes Make monthly deposits into an investment account Know your expenses

Episode 74: Faith vs. Fear

October 14, 2021 10:00 - 13 minutes - 19 MB

Our life is full of decisions.  You can take the same action, but you can do it out of fear or faith.  Fear is self-focused, while faith is God-focused.  Are you making decisions based on fear or faith? Key takeaways: Reflect on your decisions and ask yourself if you are responding in fear or faith Fear is about security and control, faith is about trust and obedience Fear is timid, faith is bold Fear or faith have actual neurological impact on your brain (Dr. Caroline Leaf)

Episode 73: Mentally Strong People Find Peace - Part 3

October 07, 2021 10:00 - 13 minutes - 18.9 MB

In this final segment of our 3-part series, we discuss how mentally strong people avoid negative habits that undermine their strength and peace. You can develop healthy ways of thinking, creating mental muscle, that brings you more peace. Key takeaways: Perfection is a hard task master Holding grudges and unforgiveness hurts YOU Material possessions don't satisfy your needs We need to admit when we need help

Episode 75: Worst Way to Withdraw Retirement Funds

October 04, 2021 23:04 - 11 minutes - 16.3 MB

It is important to have a "decumulation" plan for your Retirement assets.  Many people don't realize these missteps can negatively impact how long your money will last in retirement.  Listen in to find out how to avoid these mistakes. Key takeaways: Pay attention to taxability of your withdrawals Are you claiming Social Security too soon Use ROTH funds last unless you use them to balance a high tax year

Episode 72: Mentally Strong People Find Peace - Part 2

September 16, 2021 10:00 - 12 minutes - 16.5 MB

How do you keep inner peace in times of turmoil? This week we continue our 3-part series on how mentally strong people have learned to have confidence that they can handle what life brings their way. Key takeaways: Comfortable vs challenging The victim mentality Trying to impress people

Episode 71: Mentally Strong People Find Peace - Part 1

September 09, 2021 10:00 - 13 minutes - 18.9 MB

Turn on the news these days, and all you will hear is nonstop coverage of crises and bad news. Even talking with friends and family seems to bring up all the things that are wrong these days.  So how do you keep your inner peace in times of turmoil?  Stay tuned for our 3-part series to find some tips. Key takeaways: Don't engage with toxic people Don't play the self-blame game Happiness vs contentment

Episode 70: Avoid Behavioral Traps in Market Slumps

September 02, 2021 10:00 - 13 minutes - 18.1 MB

Economic models typically assume that humans make rational decisions.  But when it comes to investing in the market, many people fall into several behavioral traps.  Learn what some of these traps are and how to avoid them. Key takeaways: Confirmation Bias Availability Bias Overconfidence Loss Aversion  

Episode 69: Stress Reducing Activities at Home - Part 2

August 26, 2021 10:00 - 13 minutes - 18.3 MB

We will finish our 2-part series on simple and inexpensive ways to reduce your stress without leaving your home.  It takes 21 days to form new habits. Pick a stress reducing habit and incorporate it into your everyday life.   Key takeaways: Baking Meditation/Prayer Stretching Coloring books & doodling

Episode 68: Easy Stress Reducing Activities - Part 1

August 19, 2021 10:00 - 13 minutes - 19.1 MB

Stress and anxiety is different for everyone and is a brain and body push back on all you are trying to manage.  Stress leads to a continuous fight or flight response that can have negative impacts on our health.  There are easy and simple ways to relieve this stress. Key takeaways: Start your day with gratitude and make sure there is laughter in each and every day Incorporate quick bursts of movement throughout your day.  Even 30 seconds will activate positive mood enhancing results ...

Episode 67: Fixed Indexed Universal Life (FIUL) Insurance or ROTH

August 12, 2021 10:00 - 12 minutes - 17.1 MB

We will compare Fixed Indexed Universal Life to ROTH regarding tax savings, stock market risk, and additional benefits.  This is the best way to truly compare the two instead of looking at only one aspect over a short period of time.  Since both of these options create tax free income for retirement, which one meets more of your retirement goals and objectives? Key takeaways: Since these are both long term strategies, look at fees over a 10-year period or more. FIUL gives you upside sto...

Episode 66: ROTH Conversions & Biden Tax Increases

August 05, 2021 10:00 - 13 minutes - 18.1 MB

With a possible tax rate increase in the near future, people are wondering if it is still a good time to do ROTH Conversions.  Anytime is a good time to do ROTH Conversions, depending on your specific situation.  Creating tax free income for retirement is a good idea with government debt, spending, and an aging population likely to mandate higher taxes no matter what political party is in power. Key takeaways: Biden has signaled a tax increase for anyone making more than $400,000, however...

Episode 65: Financial Planning Basics

July 29, 2021 10:00 - 14 minutes - 20.1 MB

When making a financial plan, we like to compare it to building a house.  That is why we call our financial plans the Retirement Blueprint.  In this week's show we will talk about some of the components of a solid written retirement plan. Takeaways: EVERYTHING starts with a good plan, that will change over time 80/10/10 rule - Set aside 10% of your monthly income for God/charity, 10% to savings, and then the remaining 80% on your monthly needs Good debt vs bad debt Live within your ...

Episode 64: Investment Philosophy 101

July 22, 2021 10:00 - 13 minutes - 18.7 MB

Every heard stock market investing terms that you aren't sure what they mean?  If you want a brief overview of some common stock market terms and concepts, then this week's show is for you. Takeaways: What is Modern Portfolio Theory? What is the difference between Tactical and Strategic investing? How is Active management different than Passive? What does asset allocation mean?

Episode 63: Can You Retire on a $1 Million?

July 15, 2021 09:00 - 11 minutes - 16.1 MB

You have no doubt heard the idea that you can retire by starting with $1 million dollars and just withdraw 4% per year.  Can you have confidence in this?  Today we talk about why this often won't work. Key takeaways: If you are 65 years old, and $1M dollars, spend $50,000/year, and only take 4% of your $1M, your money would only last about 20 years after inflation and taxes BUT everyone's situation is different.  Do you have a comprehensive retirement plan that takes into account:  Geog...

Episode 62: Set up a Generational Estate Meeting

July 08, 2021 10:00 - 12 minutes - 17 MB

End of life planning is a critical component of an airtight financial plan.  Generational meetings with parents, children and financial advisors is gaining popularity for many reasons.  Does your financial advisor link your heirs with your wishes and provide guidance to your loved ones when you are gone? Key takeaways: Have you ensured that there is a plan in place for when the unprecedented happens? Generational meetings can minimize the stress of planning for the future of your financ...

Episode 61: Take Control of Your Financial Life - Part 13 "Get Organized"

July 01, 2021 10:00 - 14 minutes - 20.1 MB

This is the final podcast in our Take Control of Your Financial Life series.  We have shared many ideas, and thank you for your positive feedback.  It seems only fitting to end the series with some organization tips. Key takeaways: Set up automatic bill pay to avoid late fees and protect your credit score Every week look at your finances.  Set up reminders, especially to make sure you have enough money in the bank for the automatic bill pay. Find out what documents you need to keep: t...

Episode 60: Take Control of Your Financial Life - Part 12 "Do You Need a Will or a Trust?"

June 24, 2021 10:00 - 12 minutes - 16.9 MB

More than 60% of Americans do not have a will, including parents with children under 18! People don't understand what might happen if they die prematurely.  Or they are hesitant because they just don't know what they need or how to get a will or trust.  We hope this podcast will encourage you to put this on the top of your to do list. Key takeaways: Getting a will or trust is one of the most crucial aspects of a solid financial plan. Even a simple will identify your wishes for who will ...

Episode 59: Take Control of Your Financial Life - Part 11 Unique Ways to Save Money

June 03, 2021 10:00 - 11 minutes - 16.1 MB

I love to hear the different ways people come up with to save money.  Some of these ways are easy and fun.  It doesn't have to be hard. Key takeaways: Spare change jars Shop at a dollar store Cook dinner at home Do weekend cooking for the week ahead

Episode 58: Take Control of Your Financial Life - Part 10 Budget Tricks

May 27, 2021 10:00 - 12 minutes - 17.3 MB

We all can add new habits to drive unnecessary expenses out of our budgets.  This week we share more fun ideas to create a lifetime of good spending habits. Key takeaways: Have a no-spend week Use coupon apps Find free stuff! Cancel subscriptions

Episode 57: Take Control of Your Financial Life - Part 9

May 20, 2021 10:00 - 11 minutes - 15.4 MB

You can find money (savings) in your bank and credit card statements.  It is easy to overlook small charges, recurring subscriptions, or even wrong charges when you review your bank and credit card statements often. Key takeaways: Look for recurring charges.  Do you use what you are paying for? Be thoughtful when you review your expenses.  Do you really need the things you are spending money on? Be careful of "free" items that convert to monthly or annual billing after the "free" peri...

Episode 56: Take Control of Your Financial Life - Part 8

May 13, 2021 10:00 - 11 minutes - 15.4 MB

We will discuss today some ways to earn extra money.  Whether you need to cover budget expenses, have something fun you are saving for, or just have time on your hands and want to do something, we hope today's podcast gives you some ideas. Key takeaways: Have a car?  Try becoming a driver for Uber, Lyft, UberEATS, Door Dash, Amazon, or many other companies looking for part time drivers Are you opinionated?  Why not become a mystery shopper, get paid for online opinions, or join a focus ...

Episode 55: Take Control of Your Financial Life - Part 7

May 06, 2021 10:00 - 12 minutes - 16.8 MB

How to take control of an often-overlooked area of your budget - groceries!  Today we are sharing ways to buy what you need, avoid overspending, and where to shop. Key takeaways: Make a list before you go to the store Shop at more than one store depending on what you need to buy Use cash instead of credit cards for 3 weeks until it becomes a habit to know how much you are spending before you get to the checkout register Warehouse clubs are great but be careful of overspending on ite...

Episode 54: Take Control of Your Financial Life - Part 6

April 29, 2021 10:00 - 12 minutes - 17.8 MB

Are fees eating away at your budget?  There are all kinds of fees, some small some big, that you can avoid.  Keep more of your money by eliminating or avoiding fees that don't have value. Key Takeaways: Investment fees are a normal part of having your investments managed.  Do you get value for them? Banking fees can be avoided.  Do you pay for checking accounts, ATMs, overdraft or money transfer fees? Did you know you can make a phone call and often have your credit card interest rate...

Episode 53: Take Control of Your Financial Life - Part 5

April 22, 2021 10:00 - 13 minutes - 18.3 MB

There are common personal finance mistakes that often occur over and over again. You can get out of, or avoid, these mistakes.  Listen to this multi-part series and find out if you are making any of these mistakes and how you can correct them. Key takeaways: Create a budget Evaluate/Review your budget Track you spending Free budgeting software

Episode 52: Take Control of Your Financial Life - Part 4

April 15, 2021 10:00 - 12 minutes - 16.9 MB

There are common personal finance mistakes that often occur over and over again. You can get out of, or avoid, these mistakes.  Listen to this multi-part series and find out if you are making any of these mistakes and how you can correct them. Key takeaways: Look at bank and credit card statements frequently Create stronger passwords for your online accounts How to avoid scams designed to trick you into giving away personal information and logins Get a cheaper cell phone plan

Episode 51: Take Control of Your Financial Life - Part 3

April 08, 2021 10:00 - 10 minutes - 13.9 MB

There are common personal finance mistakes that often occur over and over again. You can get out of, or avoid, these mistakes.  Listen to this multi-part series and find out if you are making any of these mistakes and how you can correct them. Key Takeaways: Transfer out of high interest debt to zero or low interest debt Find free money Reduce student loan debt by refinancing or adding to your minimum payments Find better prices insurance, utilities and other expenses

Episode 50: Take Control of Your Financial Life - Part 2

April 01, 2021 10:00 - 12 minutes - 17.4 MB

We all want to have control of our Financial Life.  Sometimes the steps needed to get there can seem intimidating.  It doesn't have to be.  Pick some of the steps we will talk about in this series, and start building your financial confidence today. Key Takeaways: Review your credit report - OFTEN How to correct negative events on your credit report Make an extra payment toward debt

Episode 49: Take Control of Your Financial Life - Part 1

March 25, 2021 10:00 - 11 minutes - 15.8 MB

We all want to have control of our Financial Life.  Sometimes the steps needed to get there can seem intimidating.  It doesn't have to be.  Pick some of the steps we will talk about in this series, and start building your financial confidence today. Key Takeaways: Set goals Make or increase your 401k contributions, especially if you have employer matching Start an automatic savings plan, no matter how much you can start with

Episode 48: Biggest Personal Finance Mistakes - Part 2

March 18, 2021 10:00 - 12 minutes - 16.6 MB

There are common personal finance mistakes that often occur over and over again. You can get out of, or avoid, these mistakes.  Listen to this two-part series and find out if you are making any of these mistakes and how you can correct them. Key takeaways:  What if the primary earner dies or suffers a disability? How well have you trained your children to be financially responsible? Are you taking advantage of all the benefits your employer offers? What's your plan for major purchas...

Episode 47: Biggest Personal Finance Mistakes - Part 1

March 11, 2021 11:00 - 12 minutes - 16.8 MB

There are common personal finance mistakes that often occur over and over again. You can get out of, or avoid, these mistakes.  Listen to this two-part series and find out if you are making any of these mistakes and how you can correct them. Key takeaways: Are you living paycheck to paycheck? Does only one person in the family know where the money goes? Do you discuss budgets, spending and goals with your partner? DO NOT loan money to family and friends Do you have an emergency fu...

Episode 46: Overspending Spouses

March 04, 2021 11:00 - 12 minutes - 17.7 MB

Spouses often have differing opinions on saving and spending, but when does it become a problem?  A spouse that overspends can create tension, anxiety and even anger in a marriage.  We will talk about the problems this causes, but more importantly, some solutions. Key takeaways: An overspending spouse can endanger your retirement Communication and understanding underlying issues can help couples find common ground Overspending is often more than just numbers, it is emotional Take ac...

Episode 45: Creating Retirement Income

February 11, 2021 11:00 - 10 minutes - 15 MB

Retirement will be your longest "vacation".  People rely on Social Security and pensions for steady income in retirement.  What if this doesn't cover your monthly expenses.  We call this your retirement income gap.  Today we will talk about different ways to create guaranteed income in retirement. Key takeaways: Using stock market assets and dividend income Is real estate or REIT's a good income source Income annuities can provide an additional income stream in retirement Working pa...

Episode 44: Trust or Will - Which is Best for You

February 04, 2021 11:00 - 12 minutes - 16.9 MB

Today we will talk about the main differences between a Will and a Trust.  Our goal is to help you think about your options and help you determine which would be best for you.  Start thinking about how you will communicate your wishes once you are gone. Key Takeaways: Is a "do it yourself" will a good idea for you Creating a trust can protect you from people that want access to your legacy Trusts avoid probate Make sure your attorney includes HIPPA, Medical & Financial Powers of Att...

Episode 43: Overcoming Political Uncertainty

January 28, 2021 11:00 - 11 minutes - 16.2 MB

No matter how you voted, a lot of change is coming.  These changes have made many people nervous or fearful.  You can overcome this fear with a solid financial plan. Key takeaways: Taxes will go up Start with a solid detailed financial plan that can accommodate future changes Turn the news off! Americans are overcomers - we have made it through world wars, depressions, stock market crashes, and virus outbreaks.

Episode 42: Taxes - The Cost of Paying Later

January 21, 2021 11:00 - 11 minutes - 15.2 MB

Getting a tax break up front when you contribute to your 401k, IRA, 403b, 457 etc seems like a great idea.  But is it? You decide after we walk through an example of paying tax now, or paying it later.

Episode 41: Get Financially Healthy in 2021

January 14, 2021 11:00 - 11 minutes - 15.9 MB

The beginning of the year often brings New Year Resolutions.  These often include focusing on improving your finances.  To help you with your resolutions, we will give you some tips for getting financially healthy this year.