Smart Money Insights
70 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 2 years ago - ★★★★ - 21 ratingsDoes thinking about money and personal finance make you want to pull your hair out? You’re not alone. Today, Americans are more stressed about their money than work or relationships. Wes White is out to help others feel better about their benjamins!
Join us as we share weekly tips (without the financial jargon no one actually understands!) to make financial anxiety a thing of the past.
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Episodes
Q1 2022: Market Insight Amid Volatility
February 24, 2022 16:01 - 10 minutes - 9.1 MBAll statements and opinions expressed are based upon information considered reliable. Although, it should not be relied upon as such. Any statements or opinions are subject to change without notice. Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated are not guaranteed. Past performance cannot be used as an indicator to determine future results. Any strategies mentioned may not be suitable for everyone, information expressed does not take into account your specific situation or objectiv...
Decision 2020 & Your Money
October 30, 2020 16:00 - 10 minutes - 14.9 MBTuesday, November 3rd is the big day. Who will it be – Trump or Biden? We know the candidates are polar opposites on the issue of taxes, and that could impact our wallet. But what will happen to the market depending on the outcome? Should “Smart Money” investors worry about what Wall Street does over the next several weeks? Many Americans are asking this question, and Wes is breaking down what our true focus should be on instead of politics and the media.
Home Improvement Fever
October 23, 2020 16:00 - 11 minutes - 15.2 MBMore time at home has motivated many to make a few upgrades and finally fix a few things around the house. In our latest episode, Wes discusses how to plan for these expenses, and how they could pay off down the road.
Eddie Van Halen, Sammy Hagar & Chemistry
October 16, 2020 16:00 - 10 minutes - 14.7 MBWith the recent passing of legendary guitarist Eddie Van Halen, former singer of Van Halen, Sammy Hagar explained how their relationship worked. The immediate answer was Chemistry. In this episode, Kristen and Wes discuss the importance of chemistry, whether it’s between you and a friend, a spouse, or with a financial advisor.
Realistically, Could Your Tax Return Look Like Trumps?
October 09, 2020 16:00 - 13 minutes - 18.1 MBOne of the top stories in the news has been the claim that President Trump paid little, or no, taxes over the past decade. Instead of arguing whether that’s accurate or not – We all agree that the ultra-wealthy have ways… legal ways – of reducing the amount of taxes they owe. If you’re part of the middle class and wondering what you’re doing wrong, this episode is for you! Wes spotlights what all of this REALLY means, and how to can find out if you’re able to legally lower your personal tax ...
Election Protection 2020
October 02, 2020 16:00 - 14 minutes - 19.9 MBThis isn’t a right vs. left, Trump vs. Biden debate. This episode is all about YOU and your money! With such a heated election season, Wes discusses how Wall Street could react to the outcome… But more importantly, how it could directly impact your bottom line. Yes, we’re faced with a lot of uncertainty, but Wes breaks down the numbers you CAN control… and how to NOT let headlines or politics dictate your future.
Preparing For The 1st Ever Wealth Tax
September 10, 2020 16:00 - 10 minutes - 14.2 MBEver heard the adage “as California goes, so goes the nation?" That saying will fire you up after listening to this episode! California lawmakers are not only trying to hike their state income tax rates, but they’re now also pushing what would be a first-in-the-nation wealth tax! If they get away with it, you KNOW other states will likely attempt to do the same. Whether you work with an advisor or are a DIY investor, Wes explains what to watch out for and how to be as tax efficient as possib...
Silver Lining of Financial Struggles in the Covid Era
August 27, 2020 16:00Before February of 2020, life was overall pretty good. Most of us were working... and wall street was soaring! Then a pandemic swiftly changed our financial and day to day lives in ways we never imagined. If you or a loved one has been furloughed, laid off, or if your employer has asked you to take an early retirement…this is an episode you need to hear. Wes reveals the often-overlooked silver lining to this financial struggle, and the opportunity you now have with your 401(k) that was NEVER...
Uncovering Hidden Risk in Your Equity Index Fund
August 06, 2020 16:00 - 9 minutes - 13.2 MBIt’s been said that one of the keys to successful investing is not putting all your eggs in one basket – also known as diversification. So, you’d assume that investing in an index such as the S&P 500 would protect you, right? Well, not necessarily! Wes brings to light that about a quarter of the S&P’s total value is made up of just 6 companies, and he explains what steps you can take to make sure you aren’t putting all of your eggs in one basket.
Retirement Headwind: The Fiscal Health of the United States
July 23, 2020 16:00 - 19 minutes - 26.9 MBAmerica's retirees today face unique circumstances and challenges given the fiscal health of the United States. In this episode, Wes sits down with his dad, Rick, to discuss the realities retirees face today.
Optimizing Your Investment "Pie"
July 10, 2020 16:00 - 8 minutes - 11.4 MBAsset allocation: The combination of diversified investments in your portfolio. Seems simple enough, right? Not necessarily. Wes breaks down why asset allocation is one of the most important decisions long-term investors can make… and what you may not know.
"FORE" Tips to Better Your Finances
July 03, 2020 16:00 - 14 minutes - 19.6 MBAs amateur golfers, we often watch tournaments and pick up a few tips from the pros to try to improve our swing and go the distance on the fairway. Wes and Austin share experiences from their own game, and spotlight 4 lessons from the golf course that can help investors like you with your financial long game… And more importantly, how to stay the financial course!
Reasons to Embrace Freedom & Rollover Your 401(k)
June 26, 2020 16:00 - 9 minutes - 13.6 MBWhen working towards financial freedom, sometimes you’re seeking a little independence from your current retirement accounts. It’s common for investors to wonder “should I rollover my 401(k)?” Since there are various factors to consider… Wes addresses why you need to look at not only your 401(k) performance but fees, taxes and more. Plus, find out how to decide what type of rollover is right for you.
Is the Recession REALLY Over?
June 17, 2020 18:32 - 11 minutes - 15.7 MBFor the first time since 2009, in February we officially entered a recession… and economists say that in May we wrapped up the shortest recession in U.S. history. Wes points out how chapter 11 filings and bankruptcy protection for major companies jumped in April and March, yet the market is back up! If you feel that Main Street doesn’t match Wall Street right now, listen for insight on how you can best navigate this economic uncertainty with your own dollars.
Help Your Heirs Avoid Those Costly Pitfalls
June 05, 2020 16:00 - 11 minutes - 15.7 MBPlanning for mortality isn’t enjoyable. However, planning in advance for this transition of life can make the future much easier for your loved ones. Wes explains how settling your estate can cost your family additional heartache and years of time and money due to the probate process. He even offers simple tips you can implement today to make sure some accounts immediately go to your heirs. Also, find out how devoting a little time and money NOW on a few meetings with the right lawyer can ma...
Investing vs Gambling: Know When to Hold 'em, Know When to Fold 'em
May 27, 2020 15:22 - 14 minutes - 20.1 MBAt about the same time major sporting events were canceled and casinos closed due to the pandemic, stock trading began to increase amongst retail investors. Investors and gamblers do have the same goal: They want more money in their pockets! Despite this similarity, Wes explains how they couldn't be more different.
Celebrating Mom & The Lessons She Taught Us
May 08, 2020 16:00 - 14 minutes - 19.4 MBWhether you’re long-distance or socially distanced, Wes & Kristen share ideas of how to celebrate mom this Mother's Day weekend! They also share stories of the lessons their mothers instilled, and how those values have come full circle. This episode is a good reminder for all to not let a day go by without letting mom know how much she means to you!
Employer Gave You A Buyout Offer; Should You Stay Or Should You Go?
May 01, 2020 17:33 - 12 minutes - 17.7 MBIf during these tough times you’ve been offered an early retirement buyout, you’re faced with some hard choices. Yes… Your retirement could be very different than you expected, but not necessarily! Before you rush into a decision that could impact you and your family for the rest of your life, listen as Wes explains how to step back and best evaluate your options.
Balancing Realism & Optimism During The Pandemic
April 17, 2020 16:00 - 11 minutes - 15.4 MBWe’ve often heard that when dealing with sudden and dramatic change, we need to be calm yet responsive… while being realistic yet optimistic. In this episode, Wes discusses how that’s never been truer as we deal with the ever-changing lifestyle and financial adjustments from the coronavirus pandemic.
Is Quarantining is a Preview of Life After Your Career?
April 10, 2020 16:00 - 10 minutes - 14.4 MBHave you given true thought to what you want to spend your time doing when you stop working? Wes discovered a silver lining to all of us staying home during this crisis. This is a preview of what your life could be like when you retire, so use this time wisely!
How Uncle Sam Is Stimulating Your Wallet
April 03, 2020 17:40 - 16 minutes - 23 MBAfter they share how they’re making the best of social distancing (and Kristen tells Wes his baby’s head is BIG)… Wes explains the GOOD NEWS of how the stimulus package impacts you. Plus, ideas of how to use the money if you don’t need it right now, and the new options that are available for your retirement accounts for 2020 only.
Quarantine Fever
March 27, 2020 21:00 - 21 minutes - 30 MBMost of us are dealing with some sort of quarantine right now, and cabin fever is beginning to set in… Wes and his family included! That’s why we’re sharing ideas of how you can feel less constrained at home and focus on the small joys we’re fortunate to have. Plus, a suggestion of how to use this time wisely when it comes to your finances.
Special Update: Patriot Wealth Clients
March 20, 2020 20:37 - 17 minutes - 23.5 MBThe financial and emotional "well-being" of our clients and their families, is something we take very seriously. Without a doubt, we are experiencing unprecedented times as Americans. Volatile markets, global health crises, and general uncertainty can feel really scary (totally normal, too!).
Market and News Hysteria Have You Worried?
March 13, 2020 15:22 - 13 minutes - 18.7 MBThe last two weeks have been one for the record books! Investors haven't experienced volatility like this since the 2008 Great Recession and Crash of 1987. The markets plunged this week in reaction to the coronavirus, oil prices and Wall Street reacted by selling off. Wes explains how to step back from the panic and continue to make smart decisions with your money.
How To React When Pandemic Volatility Strikes
March 06, 2020 17:00 - 13 minutes - 18.8 MBWhen there’s volatility on Wall Street, it’s normal to have an emotional reaction. But does that mean you should make immediate changes to your 401(k) and other investments? In this episode, Wes reminds us that any moves you make now should be with one key factor in mind...
Has the Coronavirus Infected Your Investments?
February 27, 2020 19:16 - 12 minutes - 17.8 MBDue to a rise in confirmed Coronavirus cases, major stock market indices declined into correction (-10%+) territory. Investing can be emotional — especially for those who have saved into accounts in order to live comfortably in retirement. Those who have a financial plan that tells them how they should be invested, deviating from their plan remains the single most destructive action to their wealth. Wes discusses what to do, perhaps more importantly - what not to do, moving forward.
You (Yes, You) Need An Emergency Fund
February 14, 2020 17:00 - 10 minutes - 14.2 MBUnexpected expenses such as medical bills, or a car or home repair are bound to pop up eventually. When it happens, many of us quote Murphy's law: "Whatever can go wrong, will go wrong." To avoid experiencing full of financial panic, on this episode Wes explains how to grow an emergency fund, where to put it, and how much you should have… And how it keeps you out of bad debt!
Is DIY Right For You?
February 14, 2020 17:00 - 11 minutes - 16.4 MBMany of us have become do-it-yourselfers. Want to upgrade the flooring in your home, fix your car or learn to play guitar? Just Google it and you’ll find more guidance than you ever could need! You can DIY your financial life… But does that mean you should? In this episode, Wes explains what to consider if you’re thinking of going it alone, and when you may want to reach out to a pro.
Darius Rucker - Family & Life In Charleston SC
February 07, 2020 17:00 - 6 minutes - 8.51 MBDarius Rucker is one of the most intriguing success stories in country music and one of very few African American performers to succeed in the country genre. A while back Wes sat down with the Grammy winner in his hometown of Charleston, SC. They chat about family life in the Carolinas, his successful transition from Hootie & The Blowfish into country music, and how important it’s always been for Darius to have the right team on his side.
Clearing Up The He Said She Said of Money
January 24, 2020 17:00 - 13 minutes - 18.6 MBRemember playing “telephone” as a kid? The first person in the circle whispered a phrase into the ear of the person to their right…that person then repeats it to the person on their right… and so on. By the time the phrase reached the last player, it always had a completely different meaning! As adults, the same process occurs when friends and family innocently pass along financial advice. Since this misinformation could damage our financial life, Wes clarifies common second-hand money advic...
Should Your Portfolio Be Gold Plated?
January 17, 2020 17:00 - 9 minutes - 12.8 MBIt seems that some of the world’s richest people are stockpiling gold as a way of avoiding a wealth tax, and as a hedge against a global recession. Does this mean you should be using precious metals as a part of your portfolio? In this episode, Wes reminds us that “all that glitters is not gold.”
How The SECURE Act Changed Your Retirement
January 10, 2020 19:49 - 11 minutes - 15.3 MBIn the last few days of 2019, President Trump signed the SECURE Act, which will inevitably affect most retirement savers in some way. Today Wes explains what the changes in the required minimum distribution (RMD) age and inherited IRAs mean for you!
Financial Resolutions for 2020 & Beyond
December 31, 2019 10:00 - 11 minutes - 15.4 MBWhen it comes to resolutions, we all approach 2020 from a different perspective… but we share the common goal of doing something better in the new year. In this episode, Wes addresses why it’s vital that you resolve to be more focused on what’s really happening with your portfolio all year long, especially when it comes to taxes!
What Christmas Is Really About
December 23, 2019 10:00 - 10 minutes - 14.7 MBJoin us as we embrace the real meaning of Christmas! In this episode, Wes shares fun memories and how’s he’s carrying on family traditions from his childhood to his son already.
Bizarre Taxes & Your Bottom Line
December 06, 2019 18:45 - 11 minutes - 15.8 MBCandy is something simple we enjoy, but you won’t believe how complicated the taxes can be for a mere Kit Kat bar. Confusion over a 75-cent candy bar is one thing – but confusion over taxes with our investments is another. Wes discusses how we should approach the whole tax question, in terms of our retirement.
Having An Attitude of Gratitude
November 22, 2019 18:08 - 12 minutes - 16.9 MBIt’s easy to forget how blessed we are. That’s why maintaining an attitude of gratitude is something we need to do on purpose. In this episode, Wes embraces Thanksgiving and discusses how being grateful can have a positive impact on every area of life, even our finances.
Tucker Carlson - America's Social Security & Pension Crisis
November 01, 2019 16:00 - 14 minutes - 20.6 MBIf you’ve ever watched Fox News, you’re familiar with veteran political journalist and commentator Tucker Carlson. Recently we caught up with Tucker about Washington’s reluctance to tackle our Social Security and pension problems, and how it impacts regular Americans. In this episode, Wes breaks down how you can best govern in your financial future while combating these national issues.
Is Lower Taxes in Retirement a Myth?
October 18, 2019 15:17 - 11 minutes - 16.2 MBHere’s one thought so widespread that it’s commonly accepted as truth: “Your tax rate will be lower in retirement.” In this episode, Wes explains how that’s not necessarily true, but also illustrates how you can be more tax-efficient with your investments now and in the future.
Using Smart Estate Planning To Avoid Probate
October 04, 2019 14:54 - 8 minutes - 12.1 MBThe lack of proper estate planning can cause tremendous stress and confusion when loved ones inherit assets. Today, Wes explains a few simple steps to minimize the probate process to help loved ones avoid months to years of legal headaches.
Smart Ways To Give
September 20, 2019 14:10 - 11 minutes - 15.3 MBDonating to causes you care about not only benefits the charities themselves, but it can also be deeply rewarding for you too. Today Wes explores “smart giving,” and how you can track the ways the organizations you contribute to use your dollars.
Investment Side Effects
August 30, 2019 16:00 - 23 minutes - 32.5 MBEver hear one of those prescription drug commercials and wonder if the benefits outweigh all the unpleasant side effects? The same can be true of some investments. Wes breaks down the side effects of things like your 401(k), mutual funds and ETFs and even annuities.
Money Lessons With Monopoly
August 23, 2019 16:00 - 11 minutes - 15.5 MBMonopoly is a very competitive board game. Almost every family breaks out the box once or twice a year, but it can cause some minor arguments. Then there’s that other family member, “Uncle Sam,” who wants his share from all of us (on & off the Monopoly board). Wes explores the lessons we can take away from Monopoly and how to help minimize the taxes you pay on your real money!
Innovative Tech - Embracing The Change
August 16, 2019 20:18 - 17 minutes - 24.4 MBHaving your first child is a beautiful (yet scary) life-altering event. However, new parents go gaga over the gadgets and technology designed to ease the stress and worry of their sleep-deprived brains. Wes shares what gadget has tremendously helped him and his wife with their newborn, and what new financial technologies are on the horizon to possibly help you nurture your own finances.
Alleviating Economic Anxiety
August 02, 2019 17:59 - 20 minutes - 28.4 MBWhat makes you nervous or anxious? Maybe public speaking or heights? A recent survey finds that 60% of Americans feel anxious when they think about investing in the market… and they’re reluctant to invest because they worry about a potential crash. Wes explains how you can remedy some of your investment fears and tackle other common retirement concerns. And you’ll be surprised to find out what Wes has an irrational fear of! Here’s a hint: It isn’t about money… but it is quite funny!
Uncle Sam Is Coming For Your IRA
July 19, 2019 14:17 - 13 minutes - 18.6 MBThe mainstream media isn’t saying much about the SECURE Act (Washington’s plan to tap into your retirement accounts), but it’s happening. On this episode, Wes goes through the pros and cons of how this could help some Americans save for the future, but will likely reduce the value of your individual retirement account, and your financial legacy.
Married to Debt
July 01, 2019 15:29 - 17 minutes - 23.7 MBWarning: This podcast contains some tough love. It might not be fun to hear, but someone has to say it… and Wes is proud to be the one: Whether it’s for you or your kids, weddings are NOT worth going into debt for! You’re making a lifelong commitment to your spouse, but don’t forget about the commitment you’re making to a bank if you dip into a loan. Wes tells the story of how he and his wife didn’t let societies expectations impact their wedding, and how much joy it has brought them.
Taxes: Lessons Learned
June 07, 2019 16:00 - 13 minutes - 18.8 MBRemember when you were a teenager and received your first paycheck? It was soooo exciting, until you noticed how much of your check you lost to taxes! Wes shares his 1st paycheck experience, and explains what Uncle Sam has planned for your taxes in the future.
Putting the "Green Jacket" on Your Money
May 01, 2019 16:00 - 14 minutes - 19.3 MBIt’s was sports comeback for the ages when Tiger Woods won his 5th Masters in April of 2019! All of his training and intense focus paid off. Wes dives into what we can we take away from this moment in sports history to “master” our financial future.
Giving Is More Than Just Monetary
March 13, 2019 16:00 - 12 minutes - 17.7 MBAre you doing anything with your money to help others? We’ll share insight from a highly-respected Heisman Trophy winner, NFL quarter back, football announcer and inspirational speaker about giving. Then Wes and Kristen talk about the importance of giving and serving others, no matter your tax bracket.
Compound Interest: Your Money's Best Friend
February 20, 2019 17:00 - 10 minutes - 15.1 MBCompound Interest: Interest calculated on the initial principal, which also includes all of the accumulated interest of previous periods of a deposit or loan. – Even the short explanation can be confusing. That’s why Wes brings in his colleague Austin to help him breakdown compound interest in terms that we ALL can understand… And it all starts with some nostalgic stories about growing up and learning about finances as a kid.