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Episodes
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Are There Good Reasons to NOT Invest?
May, 16 2022 - 27 minsPolls say that half of Americans don't invest their money at all. Adam Morse and Janet Griffith discuss and refute common arguments against investing in the market.
Have an idea for an episode? Email us at
Show Notes expand_more Responses To 10 Common Arguments Against Investing (Article by David Booth)
Quotes All Investors Should Know
May, 2 2022 - 32 minsAdam Morse and Janet Griffith deconstruct great quotes from great investors and extract lessons for us to use in our own investment lives.
Show Notes expand_more How to Spring Clean Your Investment
April, 15 2022 - 35 minsAdam Morse and Janet Griffith discuss a list of helpful things you can do to get your finances a little more organized and optimized for the future.
Show Notes expand_more Investing & Taxes: A Brief Overview
March, 28 2022 - 28 minsHow should we approach the idea of taxes? What are the main types of taxes in play when we start investing? Today, investment advisor representatives, Janet Griffith and Adam Morse answer these questions and more in another taxy-turvy episode of Keep it Simple.
Show Notes expand_more Are Your Heirs Prepared to Handle Your Inheritance?
March, 3 2022 - 25 minsMany children may want their parents' inheritance - but how many of them are prepared to handle such a large sum of money? Janet and Adam discuss how to prepare your heirs for your inheritance.
Show Notes expand_more Rate Hikes Are in the News — Is it Time to Freak Out?
February, 14 2022 - 26 minsJanet Griffith and Adam Morse discuss whether we should worry about current rate hikes. Should we freak out - or chill out? Find out today in another knowledge-packed episode of Keep it Simple.
Show Notes expand_more THE MILLIONAIRE TEACHER returns to discuss his NEW book, Balance — How to Invest and Spend For Happiness, Health, and Wealth
January, 18 2022 - 44 minsToday Andrew Hallam discusses his new book Balance, how to invest and spend for happiness, health, and wealth. Pick up a copy today!
Show Notes expand_more What Should You Do If the Market Crashes When You Retire?
January, 3 2022 - 35 minsToday, Janet Griffith and Adam Morse discuss how to understand a market crash at the beginning of retirement. Should you run to cash— or remain in the market? Find out today in another info-packed episode of Keep it Simple.
Show Notes expand_more How Much of Your Income Should You Be Investing?
December, 1 2021 - 30 minsToday we ask: how much of your income should you be investing? Is there a universal magic percentage or formula— or is it just a matter of investing what you CAN invest? And should you pay off all of your debt before investing, anyway? Find out today on another informative episode of Keep it Simple.
Show Notes expand_more Have an idea for an episode? Email us at:
Change Your Life With ONE Formula
November, 15 2021 - 21 minsIt seems obvious, even elementary, but today Adam Morse and Janet Griffith take note of how astounding a difference compound interest can make in your financial life— positive or negative.
Show Notes expand_more Based on an article by Motley Fool
Have an idea for our next episode? Email us at podcast@assetbuilder.com
Are Women Better Investors Than Men?
November, 1 2021 - 30 minsSome studies show that women tend to earn slightly better returns than men— but why is that? Is it that girls rule and boys drool? Or is it that women have that have natural tendencies that lead to slightly more favorable investment outcomes? Find out today on another exciting, chair-gripping, knowledge-inducing episode of Keep it Simple.
Show Notes expand_more Links to studies used in today's episode:
The same but different: Gender differences in retail investor behavior (2020)
2021 Women and Investing Study (2021)
Do you have a topic that would you like discussed in our next episode? Email us at podcast@assetbuilder.com
Find all show notes at
assetbuilder.com/podcast
Understanding Our Investment Biases
October, 25 2021 - 46 minsInvestment bias can lead us down paths that seem logical but ultimately work against us. To put it in a more positive light, managing these biases can help improve performance. Today, Adam Morse and Janet Griffith help us understand our investment biases.
Show Notes expand_more Charles Schwab Survey
https://www.yahoo.com/now/befi-barometer-2021-advisors-witness-120000773.html
Have an idea for an episode? We'd like to hear from you! Email us:
Look Out for These RED FLAGS in Investment Advisors
October, 4 2021 - 30 minsIt’s easy to get caught with investment advisers that are more self-interested than they lead you to believe. Adam Morse and Janet Griffith discuss the big red flags to look for so you don’t get stuck with one of these kinds of advisers.
Show Notes expand_more Conduct a background check on any investment professional at:
List of red flags:
How (and why) to Roll Over Your 401(k)
September, 15 2021 - 41 minsAs many people approach retirement age, they often wonder what to do with their company 401(k). Should you leave it and forget about it? Or is it worth the hassle of moving it elsewhere? Today, investment advisors, Adam Morse and Janet Griffith talk about the ins and outs of rolling over your 401(k).
Show Notes expand_more Have an idea for an episode? We'd like to hear from you! Email us:
FAQ faceoff questions provided by:
https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/401k-rollover-ira-guide
Can't find your 401(k)? Start here:
Investing Horror Stories Pt. 3
September, 1 2021 - 26 minsRIA, Adam Morse, offers a few more lessons after hearing stories of financial and investing missteps from around the web. He even tells a tale of his own.
Show Notes expand_more
Taken from badinvestments.com. Link to article:https://badinvestmentsadvice.com/whats-your-investing-horror-story/
Have your own investment horror story? Email us at
podcast@assetbuilder.com
Investing Horror Stories Pt. 2
August, 18 2021 - 32 minsToday, Adam Morse listens to four investing/financial mishaps and identifies the lessons learned from each horrific story.
Show Notes expand_more Taken from badinvestments.com. Link to article:
https://badinvestmentsadvice.com/whats-your-investing-horror-story/
Have your own investment horror story? Email us at
podcast@assetbuilder.com
Understanding Your Returns
August, 11 2021 - 30 minsHow do we understand, evaluate, rank, return on investments? Is the S&P really the best Benchmark? Find out today in another jam-packed episode of Keep it Simple.
Show Notes expand_more Have an idea for an episode? We'd like to hear from you! You may also offer any episode corrections or comments. Email us at:
How to Keep Your Cool During Market Volatility
July, 16 2021 - 31 minsIt's easy to find ourselves making compulsive decisions under duress— and that is especially true of investors. Adam Morse talks candidly on how to keep a steady footing during market volatility and how to wrangle our emotions to keep our investment strategy on track.
Have a suggestion for an episode topic?
Email us at podcast@assetbuilder.com
Show Notes expand_more Should You Buy an Annuity?
July, 1 2021 - 42 minsAnnuities are contracts issued and distributed (or sold) by financial institutions where the funds are invested with the goal of paying out a fixed income stream. But are they good for everyone? Find out on today’s episode with the great Michael French and Adam Morse.
Find the show notes for every episode at assetbuilder.com/podcast
Email us with episode suggestions and comments at podcast@assetbuilder.com
Show Notes expand_more Should you Add Cryptocurrency to Your Portfolio?
June, 17 2021 - 45 minsBitcoin is one of the most highly contested subjects in modern-day finance. Should you add it to your portfolio? Find out in today’s episode of Keep it Simple with Michael French and Adam Morse.
Show Notes expand_more Email us with episode suggestions and corrections at podcast@assetbuilder.com
Find our show notes for every episode at assetbuilder.com/podcast
When is the Best Time to Start Collecting Social Security?
May, 18 2021 - 37 minsThere are endless considerations to make when picking the right time to take social security. Is it better to delay? What happens if you take it at 62? Find out all of this and more in another knowledge-packed episode of Keep it Simple.
Show Notes expand_more SSA Comparison Tools
https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/rsnotes/rsn2016-03.htmlLife Expectancy Calculators
https://www.ssa.gov/OACT/population/longevity.html
https://www.blueprintincome.com/tools/life-expectancy-calculator-how-long-will-i-live/Understanding the Financial Media
May, 4 2021 - 38 minsMichael and Adam discuss and debate the quality and quantity of modern-day financial news and analysis. Is the media helping us make intelligent investment decisions— or are they just here to entertain us? Join us on another thoughtful episode of Keep it Simple.
Show Notes expand_more How to Get TAX-FREE Income in Retirement
April, 20 2021 - 33 minsMichael and Adam pinpoint some very useful ways to reduce your tax bills during (and long before) retirement.
Show Notes expand_more Taxation of Retirement Income
https://www.finra.org/investors/learn-to-invest/types-investments/retirement/managing-retirement-income/taxation-retirement-incomeReverse Mortgage FAQ
https://www.irs.gov/faqs/other/for-senior-taxpayers/for-senior-taxpayersIf you have any corrections, inquires or episode suggestions email us at podcast@assetbuilder.com.
Should You Open a 529 Account for Your Kids?
April, 5 2021 - 41 mins529s can be complicated— especially because their conditions may vary from state-to-state. Michael and Adam break down 529 accounts; their parameters, benefits and drawbacks; and how they function within the state of Texas.
Show Notes expand_more 6 things you may not know about 529 plans
https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/college-planning/dispelling-529-plan-mythsWhich 529 Plan Should Texas Residents Use?
https://www.savingforcollege.com/article/which-529-plan-should-texas-residents-useShould You Sell Your House Before Retirement?
March, 16 2021 - 25 minsToday, Kennon and Michael discuss how to "right-size" (not downsize) your living situation in order to better prepare for retirement.
Show Notes expand_more Information on reverse mortgages
https://www.reversemortgage.org/Counselors certified by HUD
https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/sfh/hccDo you NEED a Fiduciary Advisor?
March, 1 2021 - 28 minsMichael and Adam discuss why it’s important that your advisor be a fiduciary.
Show Notes expand_more Have You Thought of These 4 BIG risks in Retirement?
February, 15 2021 - 25 minsKennon and Michael discuss four risks that could hamper your retirement in the long run.
Show Notes expand_more Should You Cash Out During Market Volatility?
February, 1 2021 - 29 minsMichael and Adam talk about whether or not it is a good idea to cash out during moments of volatility in order to avoid potential losses.
Show Notes expand_more Are ESGs all that Ethical?
January, 19 2021 - 28 minsMichael and Adam discuss whether ESG portfolios are really responsible or if conscious investing is just another Wall Street gimmick. The conversation evolves into an overarching discussion on morality.
Show Notes expand_more Based on an AssetBuilder original article: Are ESGs All That Responsible?
https://assetbuilder.com/knowledge-center/articles/are-esgs-all-that-responsibleSustainability Accounting Standards Board
https://www.sasb.org/ESG Standards
Motley Fool:
https://www.fool.com/investing/stock-market/types-of-stocks/esg-investing/Agencies:
https://www.unpri.org/https://www.globalreporting.org/
SASB Map:
https://materiality.sasb.org/Know the Chain
Know the Origin
https://knowtheorigin.com/pages/standards
DFA Annual Report
https://www.mydimensional.com/dfsmedia/f27f1cc5b9674653938eb84ff8006d8c/43993-source/2020-annual-stewardship-report.pdfEmail us with ideas and suggestions!
podcast@assetbuilder.comMoney & Marriage
January, 4 2021 - 44 minsMichael and Adam are back to offer their personal and professional antidotes on how to handle marital money matters. Do you and your partner have an interesting take on handling the family finances?
Show Notes expand_more Northwestern Mutual: Planning and Progress Study 2018
https://news.northwesternmutual.com/planning-and-progress-2018How to Maintain Mental Acuity in Retirement
December, 15 2020 - 26 minsStudies show that mental cognition tends to decline as we age in retirement. Kennon and Michael discuss some useful ways to continue to train your mind during your post-career life.
Show Notes expand_more Early Retirement can Accelerate Cognitive Decline
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/10/191029131506.htmShould You Add “Innovation” Funds to Your Portfolio?
December, 1 2020 - 38 minsMichael and Adam are back to discuss whether or not it’s a good idea to add “innovation” companies into your portfolio. They also discuss what characteristics constitute an innovation fund.
Show Notes expand_more Are Your Loved Ones Prepared for Your Passing?
November, 17 2020 - 26 minsAssetBuilder's own Kennon Grose and Michael French discuss how to financially prepare your loved ones in the event of your sudden passing. Both Michael and Kennon provide key points, while offering their own personal antidotes.
Show Notes expand_more Will Your Social Security be Enough?
November, 4 2020 - 28 minsFrom ssa.gov, “the Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for approximately 70 million Americans will increase 1.3% in 2021, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announced last week.”
Michael and Adam discuss how that is assessed, what it means for retirees and how to maximize social security for the future.
Show Notes expand_more What if Your Advisor has Different Political Views Than You?
October, 20 2020 - 31 minsMichael and Adam deconstruct the political standpoints between an an advisor and their client. How do your politics play into your investment?
Show Notes expand_more How Will the Market React to Who Becomes President?
October, 6 2020 - 39 minsIn light of the current US presidential election, many investors wonder how the stock market will react to whoever wins the presidency. Michael and Adam look back in time to see how the market has reacted to past elections and they breakdown who and what also affects the market.
Show Notes expand_more Are We in a Tech Bubble?
September, 22 2020 - 38 minsThe NASDAQ toppled down earlier in September worrying some investors that we may be headed for a tech crash. Michael and Adam discuss whether or not we are facing an imminent correction due to a tech bubble.
Show Notes expand_more What You Don’t Know About Trust Funds
September, 14 2020 - 35 minsMichael and Adam go head-to-head to see who knows more about the intricacies of trust funds. We sure learned a lot in this one and we know you will, too.
Show Notes expand_more 10 Common 401K Questions—Answered
September, 1 2020 - 35 minsCan I use my 401K before I retire? Can I contribute to both a 401K and IRA? Michael and Adam diligently answer 10 common questions about our 401Ks.
Show Notes expand_more Investing HORROR STORIES
August, 17 2020 - 44 minsMichael and Adam react to unique investing horror stories that have happened to real people. Learn about some of the darker corners of the investment world.
Show Notes expand_more FOR THE KIDS! How to start investing at a young age—and why you should
August, 3 2020 - 25 minsIf you're a young teen looking to get a leg up on life—listen in! Michael and Adam breakdown how to get started in investing, because the name of the game is getting in early!
Show Notes expand_more How Old Were You When You First Learned About Finances? How About Your Kids?
July, 15 2020 - 39 minsMichael and Adam discuss the importance of talking to our children about investing and finance at an early age—even offering personal antidotes about how they do so with their own kids.
Show Notes expand_more Do You Really Need an Investment Advisor?
July, 1 2020 - 26 minsMichael and Adam discuss the pros and cons of investing with an advisor in contrast to investing on your own.
Show Notes expand_more Why Are Stocks Still Rising Despite a Pandemic and Riots?
June, 12 2020 - 24 minsMichael and Adam discuss why the market continues to rise amid global disrupt and media sensationalism.
Show Notes expand_more How Should We, As Investors, Respond to Inflation?
June, 9 2020 - 25 minsMichael and Adam discuss and define inflation, how it should be understood, and what that means for your investment.
Show Notes expand_more Are We in a Recovery? How Can We Tell?
May, 29 2020 - 36 minsMichael and Adam discuss the key indicators of a recovering economy and what that means for your investment.
Show Notes expand_more Keep It Simple Podcast: Should You Retire Abroad? THE MILLIONAIRE TEACHER returns
May, 20 2020 - 49 minsOur regular host correspondent, Michael French, chats with world-renowned author, Andrew Hallam to discuss a whole array of investment topics, including how to retire abroad.
Show Notes expand_more An Interview with The Millionaire Teacher
May, 4 2020 - 36 minsWorld renowned author, Andrew Hallam, and I discuss his fascinating life, how to invest for a bright future and why we should stay away from market media headlines.
Show Notes expand_more - The Millionaire Teacher
https://www.amazon.com/Millionaire-Teacher-Wealth-Should-Learned/dp/1119356296/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=millionaire+teacher&qid=1565905064&s=books&sr=1-1 - Millionaire Expat: How To Build Wealth Living Overseas
https://www.amazon.com/Millionaire-Expat-Wealth-Living-Overseas/dp/1119411890/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=millionaire+expat&qid=1564761510&s=books&sr=1-1 - Andrew's Website
https://andrewhallam.com/
- The Millionaire Teacher
Understanding the CARES Act
April, 16 2020 - 28 minsThe CARES act has provided an unprecedented stimulus to the US economy. In this episode Adam and Michael discuss the benefits contained in the CARES act and how those benefits may provide relief not only to individual Americans but also the impact that different benefits may have to the overall economy. They also discuss the size of the stimulus in relation to other historic stimulus packages and explore what the potential impact may be to the economic recovery.
- The stimulus check
- Will it be taxed?
- How will it affect Americans?
- Will you still have to take Required Minimum Distribution?
- What about Social Security? My IRA?
- What are the long-term effects?
- How does stimulus package differ from the past?
- How will it impact GDP?
Show Notes expand_more - Retirement Withdrawals During Uncertain Times
https://assetbuilder.com/knowledge-center/articles/retirement-withdrawals-during-uncertain-times - CARES Act overview
https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/cares - Specific info for small businesses
https://www.sbc.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/guide-to-the-cares-act - Link to CARES act bill
https://www.congress.gov/116/bills/hr748/BILLS-116hr748enr.pdf - Short term economic effects of the cares act
https://budgetmodel.wharton.upenn.edu/issues/2020/4/8/short-run-effects-of-the-cares-act
What does COVID-19 mean for my portfolio?
March, 17 2020 - 29 minsIn this special episode, Michael and Adam discuss the impact of COVID-19 thus far and what that means for you as an investor.
Show Notes expand_more The Ins and Outs of Annuities
February, 2 2020 - 15 minsWhether you've contemplated annuities or maybe you're enrolled in one today, learn something new about these insurance products and what they could mean for your post-career life.
Show Notes expand_more 4 Common Missteps Before and During Retirement
January, 15 2020 - 24 minsShould you continue to work in retirement? How do you make sure you rebalance correctly? How do you understand the impact of medical costs? And, when is the best time to take social security?
Michael and Adam tackle 4 common missteps in retirement.
Based on this article: https://www.investopedia.com/retirement/how-sabotage-your-retirement/
Show Notes expand_more