Metcalf Money Moment the Podcast

Ep 30 - How AI Is Reshaping Wealth Management and Your Future

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 03:00:00 -0400

Artificial intelligence investing is no longer a concept of the future. It is reshaping wealth management today. Jeb, Ethan and Eric break down the key AI stocks and players driving this revolution, from model builders like OpenAI and Anthropic to infrastructure giants like Nvidia. They explore how portfolio diversification remains essential as AI transforms industries, including healthcare, logistics and finance. They also discuss real risks, such as hype cycles and market volatility, and share how their firm uses AI tools to serve clients better. This episode is your guide to navigating the AI era with confidence.

What you will Learn in this Episode:

Who the major artificial intelligence investing players really are, from foundational model builders like OpenAI and Anthropic to infrastructure leaders like Nvidia and Microsoft, and how they each fit into the broader AI stocks landscape that is transforming the global economy.

How AI productivity gains are already delivering measurable results across wealth management, healthcare, logistics and retail, and why companies that adopt AI early are gaining a significant competitive edge over those that do not.

Why portfolio diversification remains your most powerful tool in the AI era, and how to avoid the common mistakes of chasing hype or making concentrated bets in a fast-moving investment strategy environment.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Artificial intelligence investing overview and why AI is the biggest topic in business today

03:08 Real-world AI applications in wealth management: Jump AI and wealth.com tools explained

06:00 Key AI stocks and players: model builders, semiconductor stocks, and cloud infrastructure

12:00 The AI gold rush analogy and how AI productivity is improving margins at Walmart and Costco

17:23 Market volatility, regulation, economic disruption, and investment strategy for the next decade

23:46 There will be job disruptions in certain industries as a result of AI

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

You do not need to buy individual AI stocks to benefit from the artificial intelligence boom. Broad index investors already have significant exposure through the Magnificent Seven, which accounts for nearly 50% of the S&P 500's weighting today.

Artificial intelligence investing is not only about tech companies. AI is quietly improving profit margins across healthcare, logistics, retail and finance, meaning almost every sector in a diversified portfolio stands to benefit from wider adoption.

The professionals who embrace AI productivity tools will outpace those who do not. As Jeb, Ethan and Eric note, the financial advisor who refuses to use AI is the one most at risk, not the profession itself.

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We recommend discussing your particular situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Something big is happening in AI by Matt Shumer

Ep 29 - Home Care Services and How to Fund Them with Brad Haag

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 03:00:00 -0400

Most families don't think about home care services until a crisis hits. On Metcalf Money Moment, Jeb, Ethan, and Eric welcome Brad Haag of A Place at Home to guide families through the often-confusing world of senior care planning. Brad shares the telltale signs that a loved one needs help, from fall prevention concerns to early dementia care symptoms, and explains how to fund care through long-term care insurance, veterans benefits, and smart financial planning. Whether you are the sandwich generation or planning for yourself, this episode delivers clear, practical answers that could protect your family and your finances.

What you will Learn in this Episode:

✅ What home care services actually include and how non-medical home care differs from skilled home health services so that you can make the right choice for your aging loved one without confusion.

✅ How to spot the early warning signs that a parent needs help, including fall prevention red flags, dementia care symptoms, and changes in daily behavior that signal it is time to take action. Recognizing the Signs for Needed Care - When to Step in with Aging Parents

✅ The funding options available to cover senior care planning costs, including how long-term care insurance policies work, when veterans' benefits apply, and why most home care services are private pay.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to non-medical home care services and how A Place at Home customizes care for each client's needs

05:28 The credentials behind home care staff and what families should expect from certified caregivers entering the home

07:15 Why reviewing power of attorney paperwork early is one of the most critical steps in senior care planning

11:21Brad Haag shares how falling is one of the first warning signs families notice in aging parents and why it matters

13:55 Breaking down long-term care insurance, Medicare benefits, Medicaid, and veterans' benefits as funding options for home care

18:47 Real-life example of long-term care insurance paying out and the importance of understanding your policy benefits

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

💎 Power of attorney paperwork can quickly become outdated. Brad discovered his own parents had documents more than 20 years old naming an attorney who had since retired, leaving the family without legal decision-making authority in a medical crisis. Review and update these documents now, before an emergency forces the issue.

💎 Long-term care insurance is frequently misunderstood. Many families believe these policies apply only to nursing home placement, but they can also cover home care services.

💎 Funding senior care rarely comes from a single source. A smart combination of private pay, veterans benefits, long-term care insurance, and creative financial planning can make quality care achievable and sustainable without draining family resources.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Brad Haag is a healthcare and business professional with nearly 30 years of leadership experience. He owns and operates A Place At Home Kansas City South, a non-medical in-home care provider serving seniors in the Kansas City area. A Kansas native, Brad holds an undergraduate degree from the University and an M.B.A. from Pepperdine University. His passion for compassionate care was sparked while working with hospice patients, where he recognized the need for better in-home support for both seniors and caregivers. That insight led him to open A Place At Home in Overland Park, where he aims to deliver professional, people-centered care to the community.

In-Home Senior Care & Support for Kansas City South Families

Recognizing the Signs for Needed Care - When to Step in with Aging Parents

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We recommend discussing your particular situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

Ep 28 - Beyond Investing: What a Personal CFO Really Does

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0400

Jeb, Ethan, and Eric from Metcalf Money Moment reveal why the personal CFO model is transforming wealth management. Rather than segmenting your financial planning into separate silos, a personal CFO integrates investment management, tax planning, and estate planning into one cohesive strategy. Learn how Roth conversion timing affects Medicare premiums, why tax-efficient investing matters as much as returns, and how proper beneficiary designation protects your legacy. The hosts share actionable strategies, including opportunistic rebalancing during market volatility and coordinating life insurance with your overall financial picture for maximum family protection.

What you will Learn in this Episode:

How a personal CFO coordinates investment management, tax strategies, and estate planning to create a comprehensive wealth management approach that goes far beyond traditional financial advice and maximizes your family's long-term financial goals.

Advanced tax management techniques, including Roth conversions, capital gains harvesting, and tax-efficient asset location strategies that reduce your tax burden now and create tax-free legacy wealth for your beneficiaries in the future.

Why understanding your portfolio risk tolerance and implementing opportunistic rebalancing during market volatility matters more than chasing returns, and how proper risk tolerance alignment eliminates anxiety during market corrections.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 What is a personal CFO, and a discussion of the three pillars of comprehensive wealth management

04:00 Tax management strategies beyond April filing

07:36 Mindset shift: supporting real-life financial goals over chasing portfolio returns

10:33 Understanding portfolio risk through Nitrogen scoring and managing market volatility

14:50 Estate planning essentials: beneficiaries, life insurance, disability insurance, and legacy tax planning

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

A personal CFO acts as your financial quarterback, coordinating all aspects of your wealth management, including investment management, tax strategies, and estate planning.

Strategic tax management requires year-round planning, not just April meetings. Implementing Roth conversions, tax loss harvesting, and capital gains management during optimal windows can save thousands annually and create tax-efficient legacy wealth for heirs.

Proper estate planning extends beyond wills and trusts to include beneficiary designations, life insurance, disability insurance, and long-term care planning.

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We recommend discussing your particular situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Swartz + Associates - Website

Ep 27 - Slash Property Taxes: Eric Owens' Proven Appeal Methods

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0400

What if you could cut your property tax bill by hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars? Eric Owens from Swartz + Associates reveals the insider tactics that most property owners never discover. On this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric dive deep into real-world victories, including a stunning $10 million reduction on a Florida hotel and a $600,000 savings on Connecticut retail property. You'll learn why Jackson County's 2025 assessment chaos devastated businesses with 10x increases, how triple net lease tenants often miss their appeal rights, and the exact documentation strategy that wins cases. Whether you manage a multimillion-dollar portfolio or own a single investment property, Eric breaks down the appeal process from informal negotiations to district court settlements, plus reveals the critical mistake that causes new buyers to go underwater financially within their first year of ownership.

What you will Learn in this Episode:

Master the art of property tax appeals by gathering comparable sales data from your neighborhood and focusing exclusively on valuation evidence.

Navigate state-specific assessment year cycle requirements, including Kansas's annual January 1st effective valuation date versus Missouri's odd-year schedule, ensuring you meet critical filing deadlines for informal and formal board of equalization hearings.

Understand how sale price disclosure laws in both Kansas and Missouri trigger automatic valuation increases after property purchase, potentially rendering investment properties unprofitable when buyers fail to account for reassessment impacts on cash flow projections.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Property tax consultant Eric Owens discusses the services of Swartz + Associates

02:45 Examples of clients for whom a property valuation reduction occurred

06:07 Business property owners versus residential homeowners and discussion of Jackson County property tax increase crisis

10:31 Appeal process stages: informal appeal process through the board of equalization to district court appeals settlements

14:48 To lower valuations, documentation is essential for winning cases

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Evidence trumps emotion in property tax appeals. County assessors require comparable sales data, financial projections, and documented reasoning tied to the effective valuation date, not complaints about rising tax bills or payment hardships.

Contingency fee basis consulting eliminates upfront risk. Firms like Swartz and Associates only collect payment when they achieve actual real estate tax reductions, making professional representation accessible even when appeals stretch over years through the district court.

Sale price disclosure requirements in Kansas and Missouri automatically trigger reassessments. Investment properties purchased without factoring in next year's valuation increase relative to the purchase price can quickly become unprofitable cash flow disasters.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Eric is a licensed Certified General Appraiser and serves as a Director for Swartz + Associates, Inc. (SAI). SAI is a full-service property tax consulting firm that specializes in the review, analysis, and appeal of commercial real estate and business personal property tax valuations. SAI has experience across a wide range of property tax matters and serves multiple industries.

Eric Owens - LinkedIn

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We recommend discussing your particular situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor. Eric Owens, and Swartz + Associates, inc is not affiliated with or endorsed by LPL Financial and Metcalf Partners Wealth Management.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Ep 26 - Gift Tax Exclusion: Smart Strategies For Tax-Free Giving

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 03:00:00 -0400

Understanding the gift tax exclusion is essential for anyone looking to transfer wealth to family members. On this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric break down the most popular gifting strategies, including UTMA accounts, 529 college savings plans, and structured gifting through trusts. Learn how married couples can gift up to $38,000 per person annually without gift tax reporting, explore the new Trump savings accounts that offer government contributions, and discover how to use purpose-based distributions to maintain control over gifted assets. Whether you're funding education through a 529 plan with Roth IRA rollover options or setting up a revocable trust with age-based distributions, this episode covers everything you need to know about tax-free gifting strategies.

What you will Learn in this Episode:

How the annual gift tax exclusion allows you to gift up to $19,000 per person ($38,000 for married couples) without any tax reporting requirements or liability

The differences between UTMA accounts, 529 college savings plans, and new Trump savings accounts, including contribution limits, FAFSA impact, and withdrawal rules

How to use revocable trusts with age-based distributions and purpose-based distributions to maintain control over gifted assets and prevent large windfalls to young adults

The Roth IRA rollover strategy that allows up to $35,000 from a 529 plan to be transferred tax-free into a retirement account for the beneficiary

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Gifting strategies and common questions and answers about gift tax exclusion

05:00 Deep dive into UTMA accounts and UGMA accounts, including ownership rules, FAFSA impact

08:50 The new Trump savings accounts with government-matched contributions

12:26 Comprehensive overview of 529 college savings plans, including contribution limits, beneficiary designation flexibility, and the Roth IRA rollover option for unused funds

21:03 How to structure gifts using revocable trusts with age-based distributions and purpose-based distributions

24:32 Addressing the common concern of overfunded UTMA accounts and how to transition them into trusts with beneficiary consent for better long-term control

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The new Trump savings accounts launching in 2026 offer a $1,000 government contribution for children born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028, with annual contribution limits of $5,000 and potential employer matching of $2,500, creating a powerful tax-deferred savings vehicle that converts to the child's IRA at age 18

UTMA accounts and UGMA accounts are counted as the child's assets when filing FAFSA for student aid, which can significantly reduce eligibility for financial assistance, making 529 college savings plans a better option for families prioritizing federal student aid qualification

The five-year gift tax averaging rule for 529 plans allows you to contribute $95,000 in a single year (5 years × $19,000) without triggering gift tax reporting, enabling grandparents and parents to front-load education savings and maximize tax-free growth potential

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We recommend discussing your particular situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Nosbush Tax & Accounting Services, LLC | Kansas City MO

Ep 25 - Innovative Tax Planning Strategies For 2026 With Christine Nosbush

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 03:00:00 -0400

Innovative tax planning strategies start with understanding your options before tax season arrives. In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric welcome enrolled agent Christine Nosbush to discuss essential tax deductions, HSA benefits, and planning opportunities for 2026. Christine explains the difference between an enrolled agent and a CPA, shares insights on avoiding IRMAA Medicare surcharges, and reveals why tax extensions can actually reduce audit risk. Whether you're a high-income earner looking to optimize Roth IRA conversions or simply want to understand current tax code changes, this conversation provides actionable strategies for working with your financial advisor to minimize tax liability and maximize retirement planning success.

What you will Learn in this Episode:

The key differences between an enrolled agent and a CPA, and why tax planning strategies require specialized expertise in tax code rather than just accounting knowledge.

How to maximize HSA benefits with triple tax advantages and use them strategically to avoid IRMAA Medicare surcharges while creating tax-free retirement income.

Why tax extensions don't increase IRS audit risk and can actually improve accuracy, plus essential tax deductions that high-income earners often miss.

Smart strategies for Roth IRA conversions, 529 plans, and account consolidation to work effectively with your financial advisor for optimal retirement planning.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Christine, an enrolled agent, explains the role of a CPA versus an enrolled agent and how it relates to tax code expertise

03:31 Tax planning strategies for the affluent families

05:39 Tax deductions for high-income earners, including HSA benefits, Roth IRA contributions, and 529 plans

07:53 Managing IRMAA Medicare surcharges through strategic income planning and capital gains planning

13:26 Discussion of representing clients through the audit process, red flags to avoid, and the increase in fees charged by CPAs

22:00 Why tax extensions reduce audit risk and scheduling tips for tax preparation

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

HSA benefits provide the best tax deductions available—money goes in pre-tax, grows tax-free, and comes out tax-free for medical expenses, making it superior to both traditional IRA and Roth IRA accounts for triple tax advantages.

IRMAA Medicare surcharges are based on income from two years prior, so strategic Roth IRA conversions and capital gains management with your financial advisor can help high-income earners avoid significant premium increases in retirement.

Tax extensions don't increase IRS audit risk—they actually decrease it by allowing more time for accurate tax preparation, and enrolled agent representation covers all audit levels except criminal investigations.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Christine Nosbush is an Enrolled Agent and the founder of Nosbush Tax, a Kansas City–based tax firm serving individuals and small businesses since 2018, with clients across the United States. Known for her experience, clarity, and client-first approach, Christine helps clients navigate tax preparation and planning with confidence, earning a strong reputation for professionalism, responsiveness, and making complex tax topics easy to understand.

Nosbush Tax - Website

Nosbush Tax & Accounting Services, LLC | LinkedIn

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We recommend discussing your particular situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor. Christine Nosbush and Nobush Tax & Accounting Services, is not affiliated with or endorsed by LPL Financial and Metcalf Partners Wealth Management.

Ep 24 - Retirement Account Consolidation: Protecting Aging Parents

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 03:00:00 -0400

Retirement account consolidation is critical for protecting aging parents and simplifying their financial lives. In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric discuss why consolidating multiple retirement accounts helps reduce the risk of missing required minimum distributions, which carry a 25% tax penalty. They explore how scattered accounts across multiple banks and advisors create unnecessary complexity, increase paperwork, and heighten vulnerability to financial elder abuse and scams. The hosts share real client case studies and provide actionable strategies for protecting aging parents from financial scams, streamlining beneficiary designations, and ensuring smooth asset distribution after death through proper estate planning and coordination with a single financial advisor.

What you will Learn in this Episode:

How retirement account consolidation prevents missed required minimum distributions and costly tax penalties of up to 25% on overlooked withdrawals.

Warning signs of financial elder abuse and common scams targeting seniors, including government impersonation, grandparent scams, and tech support fraud, plus protective strategies like trusted contact designations and power of attorney.

Why streamlining accounts with one financial advisor simplifies beneficiary designations, reduces paperwork, and ensures faster, cleaner inheritance processes for your family.

Practical communication strategies for families to protect aging parents, including establishing family code words, setting up account alerts, and having early conversations about estate planning while mental capacity is strong.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Protecting aging parents through account consolidation, understanding required minimum distributions, and avoiding 25% tax penalties

05:16 Real case study: Client with scattered accounts across multiple banks and advisors

10:02 Common scams targeting seniors: government, grandparent, and tech support scam prevention

14:03 Red flags of financial elder abuse: unexplained withdrawals and spending pattern changes, and protective measures to take

18:25 Post-death logistics: simplifying inheritance through retirement account consolidation

23:44 Four tips for aging parents or caretakers

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Retirement account consolidation with a single financial advisor dramatically reduces the risk of missing required minimum distributions, simplifies qualified charitable distributions, ensures accurate beneficiary designations across all accounts, and minimizes the 10-15+ tax forms scattered across multiple institutions that increase audit risk and filing errors.

Seniors face escalating vulnerability to scam prevention challenges, including government impersonation, AI-cloned voice grandparent scams, and fake tech support—families should implement protective measures like trusted contact status, power of attorney, transaction alerts, credit freezes, and simple stalling language scripts.

Proper estate planning through account consolidation enables faster inheritance settlement, prevents years-long probate delays, protects beneficiaries from missing market gains during estate limbo, and requires early family conversations about asset locations, plans, beneficiaries, and advisors. At the same time, cognitive decline hasn't yet impacted decision-making capacity.

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We recommend discussing your particular situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Coppaken Law Firm - Website

Ep 23 - Business Succession Planning: When To Start With Jeff Coppaken

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 03:00:00 -0400

Business succession planning is critical for every business owner, regardless of when they plan to exit. In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric sit down with attorney Jeff Coppaken to discuss the mergers and acquisitions landscape and the essentials of exit strategy. Jeff reveals that the best time to start business succession planning is always now—whether you're planning to sell in six months or six years. He explains common pitfalls in selling a business, the importance of having clean financials, and when to start the business succession planning process. Learn about deal structures, seller financing, and why assembling the right team of advisors early can maximize your business value and minimize tax implications when it's time to exit.

What you will Learn in this Episode:

Discover why business succession planning should start immediately, whether you're exiting in six months or six years, and learn which key advisors—including your business attorney, wealth management team, and tax strategy experts—need to be part of your planning process from day one.

Understand the critical role of the due diligence process and clean financials in maximizing your purchase price, plus learn how business valuation works and why removing lifestyle expenses from your books is essential before bringing your company to market.

Explore various deal structures, including seller financing, seller notes, and SBA loans, and discover how internal succession plans can create win-win scenarios that protect both buyer and seller while ensuring business continuity.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 When to start business succession planning, including business attorney, wealth management, and tax strategy advisors

06:51 Finding the right buyer through business brokers and ensuring culture fit in mergers and acquisitions

09:32 Pitfalls, including messy financials and owner benefits that negatively impact business valuation and purchase price

13:32 Deal structures explained: seller financing, SBA loans, seller notes, and why internal succession deals often include higher seller carryback percentages

18:30 Typical transaction timelines for selling a business range from six to nine months

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The best time to begin business succession planning is always now. Assemble your advisory team—tax strategy expert, wealth management advisor, and business attorney—to maximize value and minimize tax implications, whether you exit in 6 months or 6 years.

Clean financials are crucial for selling a business at top dollar. So, remove excessive owner benefits from your books. Don't compare a fixer-upper to a renovated property when setting business valuation expectations.

Internal succession deals often involve more seller financing due to established trust. Creative structures can include consulting arrangements and earn-outs, while proper collateral protects the seller's investment throughout the transaction.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Jeff Coppaken, the founder of the Coppaken Law Firm, is a lifelong resident of Kansas City. Before becoming an attorney, Jeff spent almost a decade in sales, marketing, and customer service, which helped him understand unique aspects of the business model. His customer base includes closely held businesses, family offices, entrepreneurs, real estate investors, and developers, and is industry-agnostic. Jeff often assists his clients with buying or selling a business, ongoing business legal needs, and real estate transactions.

Jeff Coppaken - LinkedIn

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We recommend discussing your particular situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor. Jeff Coppaken, and Coppaken Law Firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by LPL Financial and Metcalf Partners Wealth Management.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Ep 22 - Bull Market Turns Three: What Investors Need To Know Now

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0400

The bull market officially hits its three-year milestone, marking a significant period of growth since October 2022. In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric break down what bull markets and bear markets really mean for investors. They explore historical data showing that bull markets typically last 4.3 years with average gains of 150%, while bear markets last only 1.5 years. The team discusses investor psychology and common emotional pitfalls — such as fear, greed, and overconfidence — that threaten portfolio performance. Learn about average bull-market duration and returns, and discover why staying invested through market volatility is crucial to long-term investing success.

What you will Learn in this Episode:

The key differences between bull markets and bear markets, including how the S&P 500 moves through the cycle, with bull markets averaging 4.3 years and 150% gains versus bear markets lasting just 1.5 years with 35% declines.

Why investor psychology and emotions like fear, greed, and overconfidence pose a bigger threat to your portfolio performance than actual market volatility, and how to avoid common investment strategy mistakes.

How to leverage market corrections as opportunities rather than threats, and why working with a financial advisor helps you stay focused on long-term investing instead of attempting market timing.

The current bull market trajectory and potential headwinds, including tariffs, interest rates, and geopolitical concerns that could impact your wealth management and retirement planning goals.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Discussion of the three-year bull market anniversary and overview of bull markets versus bear markets

02:30 Defining bull markets and bear markets: Understanding the 20% threshold for the S&P 500, market corrections, and historical data

08:24 Current bull market analysis: Ethan discusses the 90% gain since October 2022, potential headwinds, and why long-term investing beats trying to time the market

11:45 Investor psychology and Emotional Threats: Eric covers fear, greed, overconfidence, regret, herd mentality, and impatience that damage portfolio performance more than market volatility

18:38 Patience and Strategy: The importance of working with a financial advisor, avoiding emotional decisions, and staying committed to your financial planning through market cycles

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Bull markets occur 75% of the time and last significantly longer than bear markets (4.3 years versus 1.5 years), making staying invested through market volatility the smarter investment strategy than attempting market timing.

The longest bull market in history ran from 1987 to 2000 with a 582% gain, while the shortest bear market (COVID) lasted only 1.1 months—proving that markets take the escalator up and the elevator down.

Emotional threats like fear, greed, overconfidence, and herd mentality pose greater risks to portfolio performance than actual market declines, which is why working with a financial advisor helps maintain discipline during turbulent periods.

The current bull market is only three years old with 90% gains since October 202. If history repeats itself, there could be another 12-24 months of growth, making patience and long-term investing essential for successful retirement planning.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham, the CEO and Managing Partner at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management, is a seasoned financial advisor with a CFP® designation and executive education in retirement planning from Wharton. His expertise and community involvement make him a trusted voice in the field. Before founding Metcalf Partners, Jeb was a financial advisor in Overland Park, Kansas. Active in the Kansas City community, Jeb serves on the Kansas City Chapter Board of the Entrepreneur Organization (EO). He holds a finance degree from Kansas State University and a CFP® designation, and has completed additional executive education in retirement planning at Wharton.

Ethan Hutcheson is a Partner and Financial Planner at Metcalf Partners. He is passionate about helping people prepare, plan, and execute their goals. With a career in Financial Services, his expertise spans Financial Planning, Tax, and Investment Management. Outside of work, Ethan enjoys hunting, cycling, and outdoor activities with his wife, Shanna, and their sons, Rhett and Levi.

Eric Wymore is a Partner and Wealth Manager at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. His career has been dedicated to wealth management. As an Accredited Investment Fiduciary, he prioritizes acting in clients’ best interests. Originally from southeast Iowa, Eric has lived in Kansas City for 20 years with his wife, Becky, and their sons, Gabe and Nolan. He holds a degree in finance from Iowa State University.

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We recommend discussing your particular situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Tara Renze - Leawood, Kansas, United States | Professional Profile | LinkedIn

Ep 21 - Metcalf Partners Women's Financial Planning Event: Tara Renze On Being Who You Came To Be

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0400

Metcalf Partners Women's Financial Planning event takes center stage as Jeb, Ethan, and Eric welcome international keynote speaker, Tara Renze. Tara shares her journey from corporate sales leadership to becoming an emotional intelligence expert and author of "Be Who You Came to Be: 43 Secrets to Unlock the Most Powerful Version of You." The conversation explores how women investors can build financial confidence through personal development and authentic self-discovery. Tara discusses the Metcalf Partners upcoming women's event, where attendees will gain insights on building confidence in financial decisions while connecting with like-minded women in a supportive environment.

What you will Learn in this Episode:

How Personal Development and authentic self-discovery directly impact women's financial planning and decision-making confidence in wealth management

Why building financial independence requires working on yourself first, and how transformational "butterfly goals" can change your career transitions and financial decision-making

The importance of creating supportive environments where women entrepreneurs and investors can connect, learn from financial advisors, and take control of their retirement planning

How self-development and emotional intelligence empower women to overcome intimidation around managing investments and financial literacy

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to Tara Renze, emotional intelligence expert and author, discussing the women's financial planning event

03:16 Tara's grandmother's life advice: "Be who you came to be," and its impact on personal development and career transitions

06:30 Evolution from women entrepreneurs' message to women leadership development and discussion of Tara’s new book

13:25 Tara's journey from a corporate financial advisor, CareerBuilder, to a direct sales and self-development focus

17:00 Taking the first imperfect step in entrepreneurship and building financial confidence through action

19:59 Creating inclusive spaces for women investors to overcome intimidation in financial decision-making and retirement planning

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Women's financial planning becomes less intimidating when combined with personal development work—when you focus on improving yourself first, everything else, including financial decision making and relationships, naturally improves

"Butterfly goals" are transformational rather than transactional objectives that require figuring things out as you go, leading to greater financial independence and self-development for women entrepreneurs and professionals alike

Creating supportive environments where women investors can learn from financial advisors alongside friends helps overcome the intimidation many face when managing retirement planning, especially after life transitions like divorce

The message "be who you came to be" transcends cultural boundaries and industries, empowering women by encouraging authentic self-discovery rather than conforming to external expectations in career transitions and wealth management

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Tara Renze is an international keynote speaker, author, and emotional intelligence expert helping individuals and organizations “Be who they came to be.” Through her signature message, Tara empowers audiences to lead with authenticity, get mentally fit, and create lives and careers rooted in purpose and fulfillment. Her work blends emotional intelligence, positive psychology, and personal storytelling to inspire transformation at every level.

Tara. Renze - Instagram

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We recommend discussing your particular situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Ep 20 - Big 2025 Tax Reform Changes: What the OBBBA Means for Your Money

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0400

The 2025 tax cuts are not just changes; they are transformations that will impact your estate tax, standard deduction, and tax planning strategies. Join hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric on the Metcalf Money Moment podcast as they unpack the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), signed into law in 2025. This episode delves into critical updates, including higher estate tax exemptions for the ultra-wealthy, expanded standard deductions for retirees, and new deductions for business owners. Discover how 2025 tax reform estate planning can optimize your financial future, whether you're saving for retirement, managing a business, or planning your legacy. Tune in for expert insights to maximize your wealth with these tax cuts.

What you will Learn in this Episode:

How tax cuts impact your tax planning and financial strategies.

Changes to estate tax exemptions and their effect on wealth transfer.

Benefits of increased standard deduction for retirees and families.

New qualified business income deductions for business owners.

Strategies for 2025 tax reform estate planning to optimize savings.

TIMESTAMPS:

01:25 Overview of 2025 tax cuts in One Big Beautiful Bill Act: Impacts on tax planning, revenue reduction

04:40 Estate tax updates: Exemption rises to $15M/person, aiding wealth transfer for high-net-worth

07:21 SALT deduction changes: Increases to $40K for married couples, phases out above $500K income

10:31 Standard deduction at $31,500, no tax on tips/overtime or car loan interest

15:02 Retiree benefits: Senior deduction adds $6K/person, qualified business income deduction permanent

21:30 Tax planning opportunities: Roth conversions, estate tax strategies for efficient wealth transfer

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Tax cuts impact: The One Big Beautiful Bill Act reshapes tax planning, estate tax, and federal revenue.

SALT deduction expansion: $40K cap for married couples, key for tax cuts and high earners’ tax planning.

New deductions: Car loan interest, charitable contributions, enhance tax cuts, support retirement planning.

Senior deduction: $6K extra for those 65+, a significant tax cut boost for retirement planning strategies.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham, the CEO and Managing Partner at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management, is a seasoned financial advisor with a CFP® designation and executive education in retirement planning from Wharton. His expertise and community involvement make him a trusted voice in the field. Before founding Metcalf Partners, Jeb was a financial advisor in Overland Park, Kansas. Active in the Kansas City community, Jeb serves on the Kansas City Chapter Board of the Entrepreneur Organization (EO). He holds a finance degree from Kansas State University and a CFP® designation, and he received additional executive education in retirement planning from Wharton.

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We recommend discussing your particular situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Wealth.com (@WeAreWealth) / X

Ep 19 - Revolutionize Estate Planning: AI-Powered Tools & Expert Advice with Eva Deniz

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0400

Can Estate Planning be simplified? With Wealth.com’s innovative tools, like the AI extractor tool and visualizations, the answer is yes.

Join Jeb, Ethan, and Eric on the Metcalf Money Moment podcast as they host Eva Deniz to explore how estate planning transforms with Wealth.com. Learn how financial advisors can streamline the creation of revocable trusts, wills, and other estate planning documents, making the process more intuitive and cost-effective. Learn to navigate emotional hurdles and ensure your plan mirrors your expectations.

What you will Learn in this Episode:

How Wealth.com enhances Estate Planning for advisors and clients.

Benefits of the AI extractor tool for updating existing plans.

Role of the attorney network in supporting deed services.

Using the pre-meeting worksheet to ease client account setup.

Tune into the Metcalf Money Moment podcast for expert insights on wealth management and retirement planning! Join Jeb, Ethan, and Eric for practical Estate Planning strategies to unlock financial clarity and confidence. Listen now to inspire your financial journey!

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Estate Planning can be emotional. A pre-meeting worksheet and estate planning checklist give clients time to plan.

06:38 Eva highlights the AI extractor tool for visualizing and updating outdated revocable trusts, wills, and medical directives.

13:00 The intuitive document wizard eliminates legalese, and the attorney network offers a pre-negotiated rate.

16:45 Discussion of consultation rate for clarifying complex wills and trusts, highlighting Wealth.com’s value in simplifying legal jargon.

19:15 Metcalf is partnering with Wealth.com, emphasizing faster Estate Planning processes for clients using the client account and document wizard.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Wealth.com simplifies Estate Planning with tools like the document wizard and visualizations for advisors and clients

AI extractor tool visualizes and updates existing wills or trusts in minutes, ensuring relevance

Pre-meeting worksheet and estate planning checklist ease emotional barriers in client account setup

Attorney network offers consultations for $240 and deed services to finalize revocable trusts

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Eva Deniz leads advisory sales in the Central Region at Wealth.com, helping advisors, firms, and family offices initiate dynamic estate planning conversations. She empowers advisors to leverage it for growth while addressing industry challenges. Before joining 2.5 years ago, she spent 8 years at Lululemon, leading EMEA ecommerce operations and guest experience. Outside of work, she travels with her children (ages 10 and 14), plays golf, and enjoys spending time at the lake.

Eva Deniz - LinkedIn

Wealth.com - Website

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

Ep 18 - Benefits of Naming a Corporate Trustee with Randy Kimmel

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 03:00:00 -0400

When it comes to navigating the complexities of trust administration, having the right team in place is essential. On this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric welcome Randy Kimmel from BOK Financial Advisor Trust Services for an in-depth discussion about corporate trustees. Together, they cover everything from handling special assets and dynasty trusts to maintaining family harmony and managing trustee duties with clarity and confidence. If you’re looking for practical insights on wealth management and securing your family’s financial future, this episode offers valuable guidance.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00) Trust documents and estate documents, highlighting impartial trust administration decisions
(01:22) Role of a corporate trustee as executor to prevent conflict during estate settlement
(02:35) BOK Financial specializes in working with financial advisors in estate settlements
(06:08) How a corporate trustee preserves family harmony in beneficiary guidance and distributions
(10:21) Risks of serving as an individual trustee: their personal wealth is exposed
(11:37) Process of when the Corporate trustee should become involved
(16:28) Dedicated teams simplify oversight of complex assets, ensuring asset management
(18:36) Randy offers advice on choosing between family members or a corporate trustee

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

A corporate trustee helps ensure smooth trust administration and estate settlement, removing emotional decision-making and protecting family harmony. By acting as a neutral third party, they reduce conflict and keep the process focused on honoring your wishes.
Effective estate planning, including clear estate documents and professional oversight, safeguards legacy protection and ensures proper management of assets. This proactive approach ensures that wealth transitions seamlessly to future generations.
Understanding fiduciary responsibilities and the complexities of trustee duties is crucial for maintaining fairness and providing lasting beneficiary guidance to beneficiaries. With expert support, families can feel confident that decisions are being made with both integrity and compliance in mind.

RESOURCES:

Randy Kimmel - LinkedIn

BOK Financial - Website

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Randy Kimmel brings 29 years of experience in banking and finance, having joined BOK Financial in 2000 and spent over 20 years with the company. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Baker University in Baldwin, Kansas. He has expertise in executive banking leadership, trust administration, family office services, and providing trust solutions for financial advisors and their clients. Randy supports client acquisition and retention through strategic use of trust services while building and maintaining strong relationships with advisors, broker-dealers, and RIAs. An active community supporter, he is involved with the American Heart Association, United Way, and other local non-profits, and he is also a certified Bourbon Steward.

Ep 17 - Decoding Social Security for Retirement Planning

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0400

Wondering how to navigate the world of Social Security? Join financial advisors Jeb, Ethan and Eric as they tackle one of the most critical topics for retirees. This episode provides a clear overview of how Social Security works, from eligibility requirements and the Full Retirement Age to the often-overlooked spousal benefit. They offer valuable insights into the pros and cons of claiming social security early versus late. The hosts also address the big question on everyone's mind: what is the future of Social Security? Tune in for expert advice regarding this essential component of your retirement planning.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00) Opening
(02:50) Social Security is funded through FICA taxes paid by employees and employers
(04:43) Concerns about the stability of social security in the future
(08:36) Rules for eligibility, full retirement age and how the benefit is calculated
(12:30) Discussion of spousal benefit and Social Security income could be considered taxable
(15:19) The break-even point of taking money out of the system and portfolio value
(20:05) Use the SSA website to print your Social Security statement and share it with your financial advisor

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Social Security Basics: The program is funded by payroll taxes, requiring 40 work credits for eligibility. Benefits are based on your 35 highest-earning years, with a full retirement age that varies. A spousal benefit ensures a lower-earning spouse can receive up to 50% of their partner's benefit.
Claiming Strategy Matters: Claiming benefits early at age 62 results in a permanent reduction, while waiting until age 70 provides a higher monthly payout. The best claiming strategy depends on individual health, longevity, and its impact on your total investment portfolio.
The Future of the Program: The Social Security trust fund is projected to be depleted in the 2030s, which would likely lead to reduced benefits, not elimination. Solutions to secure the program include adjusting the FICA tax wage base or increasing the tax rate.

RESOURCES:

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Jeb is the CEO and Managing Partner at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. Before founding Metcalf Partners, he was a financial advisor in Overland Park, Kansas. Active in the Kansas City community, Jeb serves on the Kansas City Chapter Board of the Entrepreneur Organization (EO). He holds a finance degree from Kansas State University and a CFP® designation, and he received additional executive education in retirement planning from Wharton.

Ethan Hutcheson:

Ethan is a Partner and Financial Planner at Metcalf Partners. He is passionate about helping people prepare, plan, and execute their goals. With a career in Financial Services, his expertise spans Financial Planning, Tax, and Investment Management. Outside of work, Ethan enjoys hunting, cycling, and outdoor activities with his wife, Shanna, and their sons, Rhett and Levi.

Eric Wymore:

Eric is a Partner and Wealth Manager at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. His career has been dedicated to wealth management. As an Accredited Investment Fiduciary, he prioritizes acting in clients’ best interests. Originally from southeast Iowa, Eric has lived in Kansas City for 20 years with his wife, Becky, and their sons, Gabe and Nolan. He holds a degree in finance from Iowa State University.

Ep 16 - Navigating Interest Rates and Home Loan Strategies With Jared Bahr

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0400

Are you feeling stuck between rising home prices and unpredictable interest rates? Do mortgage headlines leave you with more questions than answers? In this episode, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric are joined by Jared Bahr of Arvest Bank to cut through the noise. He discusses the relationship between the federal funds rate and mortgage lending, the role of the 10-year treasury note, and introduces you to innovative, underused home loan strategies that just might change the way you think about buying—or refinancing—a home.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00) Opening
(02:59) The 10-year Treasury note is a better indicator of mortgage lending rates than the Fed's short-term rate cuts
(05:33) Buy the home, refinance later — act now before housing prices climb
(11:08) Jared outlines creative home loan strategies for high-net-worth borrowers
(13:45) Jared shares critical dos and don’ts for first-time or high net worth homebuyers
(18:34) Home equity lines of credit, bridge loans and recasting mortgage payments

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Interest rates are expected to decrease gradually, but borrowers should understand the difference between adjustable-rate mortgages tied to short-term rates and fixed-rate mortgages, which are influenced more by the 10-year treasury note than by the federal funds rate.
Buying now with a higher mortgage lending rate and refinancing later may be smarter than waiting—because housing prices are likely to continue climbing. As Jared Bahr puts it, you can "marry the house, date the rate."
Lenders like Arvest Bank offer flexible options for high-net-worth borrowers and first-time homebuyers.

RESOURCES:

Arvest Bank

Jared Bahr - Arvest Bank

Jared Bahr - LinkedIn

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Jared Bahr is a University of Missouri graduate with 15 years of experience as a residential mortgage lender. As Vice President and Mortgage Lending Supervisor at Arvest Bank, a regional bank headquartered in Bentonville, Arkansas, they contribute to a community-focused institution with over 200 branches across Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. Arvest, established in 1961 and primarily owned by the Walton family, offers a range of financial services, including mortgage loans and deposits. Arvest has grown through acquisitions, such as Bear State Financial in 2018, with total assets exceeding $26 billion.

Ep 15 - Executive Edge: Understanding Elite Employee Benefits

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0400

Ever wondered how top-tier professionals leverage their compensation to build lasting wealth? In this engaging episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric share decades of expertise to demystify elite employee benefits. They explore powerful tools such as deferred compensation, ESOPs, stock options, and HSAs, offering clear and practical strategies to help corporate executives and high earners optimize their financial plans. Whether you’re aiming to minimize taxes or grow your retirement savings, this episode delivers insights to inspire confidence and clarity on your wealth-building journey.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00) Opening
(01:08) Let’s focus on executive benefits: corporate executive compensation packages
(01:49) Discussion on deferred compensation plans, stock options, 401K and benefits
(08:15) ESOP plans, highlighting their role in wealth accumulation for employees at privately held companies
(13:28) Differences between restricted stock units (RSUs) and stock options, employee stock purchase
(18:34) 401K contribution limits and the benefits of mega backdoor Roth conversions
(26:18) Discussion of HSAs, emphasizing their triple tax-exempt status

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Deferred compensation plans enable corporate executives to defer their salary, thereby reducing current tax liability and allowing for strategic planning for future income in lower tax brackets.
ESOP plans in privately held companies build significant wealth for employees, offering tax-deferred growth and vesting benefits tied to company performance.
HSAs offer triple tax-exempt benefits, allowing tax-deductible contributions, tax-deferred growth, and tax-free withdrawals for qualified medical expenses, making them ideal for long-term savings.

RESOURCES:

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Ethan Hutcheson:

Eric Wymore:

Ep 14 - Unlocking Business Growth with Brent Taylor’s Fractional CFO Expertise

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0400

Discover how to supercharge your business with expert financial strategies on this episode of Metcalf Money Moment! Hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric welcome Brent Taylor from KC CFO Services, who shares game-changing insights on fractional CFO services. Learn how to delegate effectively, plan for business growth, and navigate business exits with confidence, all while optimizing your financial future. Whether you're a small business owner or scaling a larger company, this episode delivers practical advice to elevate your success.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(04:15) The distinction between a fractional CFO and an accountant is clarified
(08:30) Fractional CFO services help business owners delegate responsibilities and set business growth goals
(13:01) Brent’s company serves various types of small, growing businesses of
(15:15) The process of engaging a fractional CFO is outlined, involving discovery calls to assess challenges and opportunities
(18:29) The synergy between a fractional CFO and the financial advisor, and helping clients with business exit strategies, and succession planning goals

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Fractional CFO services enable small and mid-sized businesses to access expert financial guidance without the expense of a full-time CFO, allowing owners to delegate tasks and focus on growth.
Business growth is supported by strategic financial planning, where fractional CFOs look forward, unlike accountants who focus on historical data, aiding in financing, hiring, and expansion decisions.
Succession planning and business exit strategies are crucial for business owners, with fractional CFOs playing a vital role in preparing for sales or transitions to maximize value and ensure long-term success.

RESOURCES:

CFO Services in Kansas City

CFO Services - LinkedIn

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Brent Taylor is the founder and owner of KC CFO Services, LLC, a fractional CFO firm based in Kansas City. After spending 15 years working with large companies across various industries, he transitioned into entrepreneurship, leveraging his diverse financial experience to help growing small and mid-sized businesses navigate their journey. He holds a degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Nebraska and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Ethan Hutcheson:

Eric Wymore:

Ep 13 - The Business of Planning: Financial Strategies for Business Owners

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 02:00:00 -0400

Are you a small business owner wondering how to plan for retirement or what your business is really worth? Have you thought about your exit strategy—or what happens if something unexpected takes you out of the game? Whether you're just starting to think about retirement planning or already navigating the complexities of being a business owner, this episode is for you.

In this episode, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric dive into the three key types of clients they serve at Metcalf Partners. While they support emerging affluent individuals and those nearing retirement, today’s conversation focuses on the business owner. From selecting the right retirement plan and managing risk with insurance to preparing your business for sale and planning for succession, this episode offers crucial insights to help business owners take control of their financial future.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:46) Metcalf Partners has three key client groups. Today, we focus on the business owner
(03:12) Ethan discusses three main employer retirement planning strategies
(11:59) Eric discusses risk management through insurance
(16:46) Discussion of multiple business owners
(20:04) Making an exit strategy from your business and continuity
(22:26) Pricing your business for sale

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Metcalf Partners serves three primary client groups: emerging affluent individuals, those at or near retirement, and small business owners, with a particular focus on small business owners in this episode. They offer tailored financial strategies for each group, including retirement planning, insurance solutions, and business exit strategies.
Solo 401(k) plans are ideal for small business owners, particularly those who are husband-and-wife teams. They offer high contribution limits, Roth options, low costs, and minimal admin until assets exceed $250,000.
Many business owners fail to plan for succession or exit, leaving them vulnerable if the unexpected occurs. Whether through internal succession, a broker, or private equity, the process is complex and takes time. Planning early is crucial to a smooth and financially sound transition.

RESOURCES:

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Ethan Hutcheson:

Eric Wymore:

Ep 12 - Casey McCarthy on Building a Bulletproof Retirement Plan for Small Businesses

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 02:00:00 -0400

Are you making the most of your retirement planning strategy—or leaving money and tax benefits on the table? In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric discuss with Casey McCarthy, Executive Vice President at EIP Corp., how third-party administrators (TPAs) help design and manage 401(k) plans tailored to business goals, such as maximizing savings and attracting top talent. You’ll learn the differences between IRA options, SEP, SIMPLE, and 401(k) plans, how cash balance plans work, and how to take full advantage of tax benefits and new IRS incentives that could make retirement plans more affordable than ever. Whether you're a business owner or building your retirement nest egg, this episode will help you make smarter retirement planning decisions.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(01:48) Casey explains the role of a third-party administrator when retirement planning
(05:42) The differences between IRAs and specific contribution amounts
(09:42) How does a cash balance plan work with a 401 (k)
(13:51) Tax benefits and credits. IRS is making plans that are inexpensive or free for three to five years
(18:22) Contributing to a Roth IRA and discussion of the maximum contributions

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Casey McCarthy shared how TPAs like EIP Corporation design and manage 401(k) plans to stay compliant and support business goals. While advisors like Metcalf Partners handle education and investments, TPAs tailor retirement planning strategies to help business owners maximize savings, attract top talent, and fully leverage tax benefits and IRA options.
Compared to SEP and SIMPLE IRAs, 401(k) plans offer higher contribution limits and greater flexibility, making them a stronger option for retirement planning in growing businesses.
The conversation highlighted how advisors and TPAs work together—advisors handle education and investments, while TPAs manage plan design and compliance—to create strategic, tax-beneficial retirement plans.

RESOURCES:

EIP Corporation - Website

Casey McCarthy - LinkedIn

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: Casey McCarthy

I am the Executive Vice President and Director of Business Development at EIP Corp., a Third-Party Administrator (TPA) in the Kansas City area, with a focus on corporate retirement plan design and administration. With over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, including extensive expertise in defined contribution and defined benefit plans, my goal is to ensure that our clients receive the most accurate plan administration and the highest quality service in the industry.

EIP CORP

Founded in 1973, EIP began with the mission that still guides the company today: to combine unequaled expertise with personal attention. In pursuit of that mission, our emphasis on customer satisfaction has earned us long-standing relationships with our clients. We still serve the very first client we acquired.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Ethan Hutcheson:

Eric Wymore:

Ep 11 - Riding the Waves: Understanding Market Volatility and Recovery

Wed, 28 May 2025 02:00:00 -0400

Are you letting fear drive your investment decisions? Or are you prepared to navigate market volatility with confidence and clarity? In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric discuss the emotional rollercoaster of the stock market, from historical bear markets to innovative diversification investment strategies. You'll hear insights from timeless charts like the First Trust Bull and Bear Markets chart, the J.P. Morgan Guide to the Markets, and the colorful Quilt Chart that illustrates why no single asset class wins annually. Whether you're worried about downturns or looking to turn volatility into opportunity, this conversation will help you stay grounded, informed, and focused on your long-term financial goals.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00) Opening and introduction
(00:53) Discussing stock market volatility and investment strategies
(03:17) Ethan refers to a First Trust Chart from 1942, which charts the Bull and Bear Markets
(07:14) Eric refers to the Quilt Chart and discusses asset allocation
(11:32) Jeb discusses the Crisis and Events Chart and the J.P. Morgan Guides to Markets Chart

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Market volatility is normal and recurring. Market downturns—5 %, 10%, or even 20% declines—are typical. Ethan noted that a 5% drop happens about three times a year, while a 20% decline occurs roughly every five and a half years. Despite their frequency, these downturns are typically followed by recoveries, often leading to new market highs. Consider this information when making investment strategies.
Bear markets are opportunities, not just risks. Rather than fearing market declines, the hosts suggest viewing them as opportunities to invest at a discount. Jeb and Ethan both stressed the importance of staying invested during downturns to avoid missing out on the early stages of recovery, which often carry significant gains.
Diversification and asset allocation help smooth the ride. Since no single asset class consistently outperforms, spreading investments across stocks, bonds, and other assets helps manage risk and capture returns over time.

RESOURCES:

Ep. 8 - Long Term Wealth Building: How to Stay Resilient in Uncertain Times

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Ethan Hutcheson:

Ethan is a Partner and Financial Planner at Metcalf Partners. He is passionate about helping people prepare, plan, and execute. With a career in Financial Services, his expertise spans Financial Planning, Tax, and Investment Management. Outside of work, Ethan enjoys hunting, cycling, and outdoor activities with his wife, Shanna, and their sons, Rhett and Levi.

Eric Wymore:

Market Volatility, Investment Strategies, Bear Markets, Bull Markets, Asset Allocation, Diversification, Market Downturns, Recovery Gains, Risk Management, Financial Goals, Long-Term Investing, Stock Market Trends, First Trust Chart, J.P. Morgan Guide, Quilt Chart, Market Cycles, Small Cap Stocks, International Equities, Fixed Income, Historical Data

Ep 10 - Navigating Rising Insurance Rates with Allen Smith of Blue Valley Insurance

Wed, 14 May 2025 02:00:00 -0400

Are you feeling the pinch from rising insurance premiums, especially regarding home and automobile rates? In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric sit down with Allen Smith of Blue Valley Insurance to explain why insurance rates are climbing and what you can do about it. From the impact of frequent roof damage claims to the hefty premiums that come with insuring teen drivers, Allen shares insights you need to know. You’ll learn how insurance rates are determined, the difference between independent and captive agents, and practical steps you can take to help lower your insurance premiums. Whether you're a homeowner, a parent of a new driver, or simply looking to understand your policy better, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00) Introduction and opening
(02:01) Allen provides a backstory of what has caused insurance rates to rise
(07:17) Discussion of insurance claims for roof damage
(13:47) Discussion of how insurance rates are determined
(16:27) The difference between an independent agent and a captive agent, and a discussion of automobile rates for teen drivers
(24:38) Discussion of what a consumer can do to lower the rising insurance premium amount

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Home and auto insurance premiums have skyrocketed in recent years, driven by inflation, increased claim frequency, and higher repair or rebuild costs due to supply chain issues and material/labor price hikes.
Frequent roof replacement claims—often triggered by minimal hail damage—are straining insurance providers. Companies are tightening coverage rules and increasing deductibles to curb widespread losses.
When adding a young driver to your insurance policy, expect a substantial rate increase—potentially $200 or more per month before assigning them a vehicle. However, don't despair. Be proactive and shop around,

RESOURCES:

Blue Valley Insurance Agency - Website

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Al joined Blue Valley Insurance in 2008 as a Personal and Commercial Lines Agent, where he enjoys educating clients and building lasting relationships. In 2013, he earned his Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation, recognizing him as one of the industry’s most knowledgeable professionals. Since 2011, Al has consistently received the Five Star Professional Award—an honor given to fewer than 7% of KC-area insurance professionals based on outstanding customer satisfaction.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Ethan Hutcheson:

Eric Wymore:

Insurance Rates, Rising Insurance Premiums, Automobile Insurance, Teen Driver Insurance, Roof Damage Claims, Home Insurance, Independent Agents, Captive Agents, Insurance Premiums, Personal Insurance, Policy S, Insurance Industry Trends, Claim Frequency, Lowering Premiums, Insurance Coverage Tips

Ep 9 - The Power of a Legacy Letter: How Meaningful Words Shape Generations with Blake Brewer

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0400

Have you ever thought about the lasting impact of your words on your loved ones? On this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric sit down with Blake Brewer to explore the power of the Legacy Letter—a heartfelt parent-child letter filled with meaningful words that stand the test of time. Blake shares his deeply personal story of loss and how a letter from his late father changed his life, inspiring him to help others leave behind a legacy of love and wisdom. From the essential components of crafting a letter to the profound influence it can have on future generations, this conversation will leave you inspired to put pen to paper.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00) Opening and introduction
(01:28) Blake reveals how the Legacy Letter came to be and the heartbreaking way his dad passed
(08:57) Blake shares when he wrote his letter and decided to found Legacy Letter
(11:28) The components of compiling meaningful words to leave as a legacy and the timing of giving the letter of reflection
(17:53) It’s never too late to write the letter, and Blake discusses the partnership with Metcalf Partners
(22:05) Blake shares an example of the results of a Parent-Child letter

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Blake Brewer’s life was profoundly impacted by a letter his father wrote to him before passing away unexpectedly. This letter provided love, guidance, and hope during his darkest moments, helping him grieve in a healthy way.
Blake turned his tragedy into a mission to help others. He founded The Legacy Letter, intending to assist a million people in writing impactful letters to their children and loved ones, ensuring their voices and values live on.
Writing a legacy letter is a powerful and emotional process that can profoundly impact both the writer and the recipient, even if its full significance isn't realized immediately.

RESOURCES:

Legacy Letter Challenge - Instagram

Legacy Letter - Website

Blake Brewer - LinkedIn

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Blake Brewer is a visionary leader and the founder of Legacy Letter Challenge, an organization with a mission to help 1 million people write at least one Legacy Letter to their children. Blake's powerful story and mission have touched the hearts of many, and he continues to share it with organizations, businesses, and communities across the country. Most recently, he was featured on the "Dads Got This" segment on NBC's Today Show.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Jeb is the CEO and Managing Partner at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. Before founding Metcalf Partners, he was a financial advisor in Overland Park, Kansas. Active in the Kansas City community, Jeb serves on the Kansas City Chapter Board of Entrepreneur Organization (EO). He holds a finance degree from Kansas State University and a CFP® designation, and he received additional executive education in retirement planning from Wharton.

Ethan Hutcheson:

Eric Wymore:

Eric is a Partner and Wealth Manager at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. His career has been dedicated to wealth management. As an Accredited Investment Fiduciary, he prioritizes acting in clients’ best interests. Originally from southeast Iowa, Eric has lived in Kansas City for 20 years with his wife, Becky and their sons, Gabe and Nolan. He holds a degree in finance from Iowa State University.

Ep 8 - Long-Term Wealth Building: How to Stay Resilient in Uncertain Times

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0400

Are you feeling uncertain about your investments in today’s turbulent market? You’re not alone. In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric break down the psychology of investing and how to navigate the ups and downs of the stock market with confidence. From understanding the emotional rollercoaster of fear and greed, to exploring strategies like diversification, downside protection, and opportunistic rebalancing, this conversation will equip you with the tools to stay level-headed and make smarter financial decisions. Tune in to learn how to harness the power of long-term thinking and make the psychology of investing work for you!

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00) Opening and introduction
(00:48) Discussion of the turbulent markets and the psychology of investing
(02:41) The peak-to-trough cycle and the emotional rollercoaster of fear, greed, recency bias and confirmation bias
(07:29) Discussion of diversification and market predictions
(12:45) Defining downside protection and
(16:18) Defining opportunistic rebalancing
(19:29) Jeb summarizes what the psychology of investing is and how to make it work for you

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Market fluctuations are a natural part of investing, following a cycle of emotions from euphoria to fear. Understanding this cycle helps investors avoid impulsive decisions driven by short-term emotions.
Spreading investments across different asset classes (stocks, bonds, international markets, etc.) helps mitigate risk, ensuring that a downturn in one area doesn’t disproportionately impact the entire portfolio.
While short-term volatility is inevitable, history shows that markets tend to recover and grow over longer horizons. Maintaining a long-term outlook helps investors stay resilient through market corrections and downturns.

RESOURCES:

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Ethan Hutcheson:

Eric Wymore:

Ep 7 - Mastering Early Retirement: Social Security, Health Insurance, and More

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0400

How much money do you need to retire comfortably, and when is the best time to take Social Security? In this episode of the Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric dive into the key components of retirement planning. They discuss the early retirement dichotomy, how much money you need to retire comfortably, and the complexities of managing retirement accounts. The conversation also explores the crucial decision of when to take Social Security, navigating the often overlooked topic of health insurance in retirement, and concludes with the bottom lines for anyone planning for the future. Whether you're thinking about retiring early or just starting to plan, this episode offers valuable insights for every stage of retirement planning.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00) Opening and intro
(00:49) Retirement planning
(04:00) How much money do you need to retire
(09:40) Discussion of retirement accounts
(16:10) When do I take social security
(21:33) What about a health savings account
(25:25) The bottom line - a final word the steps to take to when planning for retirement

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

To retire early, individuals must address critical factors like how much money they need, when they can access retirement accounts, when to take Social Security, and how to handle health insurance costs before Medicare eligibility at 65.
Individuals should start planning for Medicare around age 62 or 63, as Medicare uses a two-year income lookback period to determine costs. Proper planning can help manage income levels to optimize Medicare premiums.
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are a valuable tool for covering healthcare expenses in retirement. They offer triple tax advantages, grow tax-free, and can be used for qualified medical expenses, making them a strategic financial asset.

RESOURCES:

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Jeb is the CEO and Managing Partner at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. Before founding Metcalf Partners, he was a financial advisor in Overland Park, Kansas. Active in the Kansas City community, Jeb serves on the Kansas City Chapter Board of Entrepreneur Organization (EO). He holds a finance degree from Kansas State University and a CFP® designation, and he received additional executive education in retirement planning from Wharton.

Ethan Hutcheson:

Eric Wymore:

Eric is a Partner and Wealth Manager at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. His career has been dedicated to wealth management. As an Accredited Investment Fiduciary, he prioritizes acting in clients’ best interests. Originally from southeast Iowa, Eric has lived in Kansas City for 20 years with his wife, Becky and their sons, Gabe and Nolan. He holds a degree in finance from Iowa State University.

Ep 6 - Making Sense of Health Insurance When Retiring: Expert Insights with Matt Sturgeon and Phil Walters

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Navigating the complexities of health insurance when retiring can be overwhelming, but having the correct information makes all the difference. In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, host Jeb, Ethan, and Eric sit down with Matt Sturgeon, CEO of LNI Insurance Solutions, and Phil Walters, Director of Medicare at LNI Insurance Solutions, to break it all down. They discuss the key factors retirees need to consider, including determining insurance needs based on income and retirement age, what counts toward modified adjusted gross income, and how to ensure a smooth transition into retirement—especially for those under 65. The conversation also dives into the role of Medicare in health care decisions, the complexities of choosing the right plan, and why consulting an insurance specialist is essential since no two situations are alike. Whether you're retiring early or preparing to transition into Medicare, this episode provides valuable insights to help you make informed decisions about your health insurance coverage.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00) Opening
(02:23) How does early retirement affect health insurance, and how do we determine insurance needs based on income and retirement age
(07:05) What income counts towards modified adjusted gross income
(08:16) Begin your health insurance decisions 6 months before retirement
(13:07) No two situations of retirement planning are alike. Consult an insurance specialist
(17:06) Making the switch to Medicare

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Every retiree’s situation is uniquely influenced by age, income, and location factors. Different rules apply to those retiring early (e.g., 55 or 60) compared to those transitioning into Medicare at 65.
One of the biggest concerns for early retirees is securing affordable health insurance. Options include COBRA, ACA marketplace plans, short-term medical plans, and tax credits, which vary based on income and household makeup.
Retirees should begin planning at least six months before retirement to ensure a smooth transition. Financial advisors target age 63 for Medicare planning since Medicare considers income from two years prior when determining costs.

RESOURCES:

L & I Insurance - Website

812 490 0200 - Phone

L & I Insurance - Facebook

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Matt Sturgeon is a seasoned leader in the insurance industry with 14 years of experience. As the CEO and Co-Founder of L&I Insurance Solutions in Newburgh, IN, he is dedicated to helping individuals, families, and businesses "Protect Their Legacy with Integrity."

Beyond the insurance industry, Matt is also an award-winning high school Varsity boys' soccer coach. With 20 years of coaching experience, he is currently the head coach at Evansville North High School. His passion for leadership and mentorship extends beyond the field, shaping young athletes into strong competitors and well-rounded individuals.

Philip Walters is the Director of Medicare at L&I Insurance Solutions and a nationally recognized top-producing Medicare agent, with over 20 years of experience in the insurance and healthcare industry. Known for his expertise and dedication, Philip is a regular guest on 14 News’ Ask the Expert segment for Medicare, where he shares vital insights to help individuals navigate their healthcare options.

Ep 5 - Maximizing Your Wealth: What to Do When You Inherit Money

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 02:00:00 -0400

Navigating the complexities of inheritance can be overwhelming, especially regarding tax implications and estate settlement. In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, Jeb Graham, Ethan Hutcheson, and Eric Wymore break down key strategies for maximizing inheritance planning, ensuring tax efficiency, and streamlining the estate settlement process. From common mistakes—like cashing out an inherited IRA too soon—to the nuances of annuities, life insurance, and estate taxes, the hosts share valuable insights to help you make informed decisions. Whether planning your estate or preparing to inherit assets, this conversation will help you avoid costly pitfalls and save time and money.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[0:54] Inheritance planning starts with preventative care
[6:30] Necessary documents, financial planning and consulting professionals are key to avoiding estate taxes
[10:58] Discussion of the best account types to inherit and the 10-year rule
[15:17] Discussion of the required minimum distribution and other examples
[18:53] Annuities and life insurance and estate taxes
[23:50] Contact a knowledgeable professional for proper inheritance and financial planning

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The Great Wealth Transfer Is Underway – Over the next few decades, between $30 trillion and $68 trillion will be transferred from Baby Boomers to their heirs. Approximately 45 million U.S. households will inherit money, with an average inheritance of $177,000.
Taking proactive steps, such as organizing financial documents, properly titling accounts, and having open discussions with family members, can significantly ease the inheritance process. Establishing clear beneficiary designations, maintaining a list of financial accounts, and planning with estate professionals help avoid unnecessary complications.
One significant mistake people make when inheriting assets is not promptly informing their financial advisors or tax professionals. While a well-prepared estate plan helps streamline the inheritance process, settling an estate still takes time.

RESOURCES:

Financial Planning Document Checklist

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Jeb is the CEO and Managing Partner at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. Before founding Metcalf Partners, he was a financial advisor in Overland Park, Kansas. Active in the Kansas City community, Jeb serves on the Kansas City Chapter Board of Entrepreneur Organization (EO). He holds a finance degree from Kansas State University and a CFP® designation, and he received additional executive education in retirement planning from Wharton.

Ethan Hutcheson:

Eric Wymore:

Eric is a Partner and Wealth Manager at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. His career has been dedicated to wealth management. As an Accredited Investment Fiduciary, he prioritizes acting in clients’ best interests. Originally from southeast Iowa, Eric has lived in Kansas City for 20 years with his wife, Becky and their sons, Gabe and Nolan. He holds a degree in finance from Iowa State University.

Ep 4 - Erik Rome on Estate Planning: Navigating Probate and Choosing the Right Trustee

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 02:00:00 -0400

Welcome to Metcalf Money Moment, where hosts Jeb Graham, Ethan Hutcheson, and Eric Wymore welcome Erik Rome from Sage Law to discuss the ins and outs of estate planning. In this episode, Erik dives into key aspects of managing an estate, from avoiding probate and understanding the role of wills to the complexities of trusts, durable power of attorney, and healthcare directives. They also explore the importance of appointing the correct individuals in your planning—whether a family member or a corporate trustee—and why reviewing your estate plan regularly is crucial. Tune in as Erik shares practical advice on ensuring your estate is in good hands, and your wishes are carried out seamlessly.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[2:42] Erik defines probate, how to avoid it, and what the will controls
[6:56] Trusts and why they are created
[12:03] Discussion of trusts, durable power of attorney, healthcare directives and involving the children in the planning
[17:29] Conflicts of interest and do you need a corporate trustee, and how often should you review your estate plan
[23:03] Reviewing an older estate plan

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

A will only dictates how assets that go through probate are distributed. Suppose you have designated beneficiaries or joint owners on assets (like bank accounts or property). In that case, assets bypass the will and probate, meaning the will won’t impact how those assets are handled.
To avoid probate, you can use joint ownership (e.g., with a spouse), beneficiary designations (for accounts or life insurance), or a revocable trust. Properly titling assets and ensuring beneficiaries are in place for all relevant accounts is key to avoiding the lengthy and costly probate process.
One common mistake families make is appointing individuals to roles like trustees or executors based on birth order or profession rather than considering whether the person has the right temperament and qualifications for the job. This can lead to conflicts or mishandling of estate matters.

RESOURCES:

Sage Law - Website

Erik Rome - LinkedIn

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor. LPL Financial representatives offer access to Trust Services through The Private Trust Company N.A. an affiliate of LPL Financial. (154-LPL)

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Erik Rome practices law in Kansas and Missouri in estate planning, estate and trust administration, and business and tax planning. He helps clients develop and implement comprehensive estate plans for various estate sizes, assets, and objectives. Understanding that every client’s goals are unique, Erik works closely with each client to create a custom plan to accomplish their goals, such as minimizing taxes, making charitable gifts, accounting for periods of incapacity, and planning for the eventual transfer of wealth.

Ep 3 Early Financial Planning: Why January Is the Key to a Successful Year

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:30:00 -0400

Hosts Jeb Graham, Ethan Hutcheson, and Eric Wymore dive into why starting your financial planning early in the year is essential for achieving long-term success. In this episode, they explore critical strategies like maximizing retirement account contributions, understanding tax law changes for 2024, and consolidating 401(k) accounts for a streamlined approach. They also break down the benefits of 529 college savings plans, the importance of harvesting tax gains or losses, and key insights into managing stock options and restricted stock units. Whether you’re planning for retirement, considering a Roth conversion, or optimizing your tax strategies, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you make the most of your financial opportunities all year long.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(:54)Start your financial planning early in the year
(2:17) Discussion of IRA contributions and tax law changes for 401ks and consolidation of 401k accounts if needed
(7:42) Tax breaks for a college education with a 529 Savings Plan and discussion of Harvesting Tax Gains or Losses
(12:45) Discussion of stock options and restricted stock units
(16:22) Discussion of the distribution phase and a Roth conversion
(22:38) Planning for retirement

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

January is the ideal time to review and plan financial strategies, including maxing out retirement account contributions and deciding on charitable donations. Early planning allows for a more balanced and practical approach throughout the year, avoiding last-minute decisions that can feel rushed or incomplete.
The maximum 401(k) contribution for 2024 is $23,500, with an additional $7,500 for those over 50. From ages 60 to 63, the catch-up contribution rises to $11,250, offering a unique opportunity to boost retirement savings during those years.

The contribution limits for Roth IRAs and traditional IRAs remain at $7,000, with a $1,000 catch-up for those 50 and older.

Consider tax-loss harvesting to offset capital gains and reduce taxable income while maintaining long-term investment goals. For corporate employees with stock options or restricted stock units, plan strategically to manage taxes and avoid over-concentration in company stock. Diversifying these assets can improve portfolio balance and risk management.

RESOURCES:

DISCLAIMER: This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax

Metcalf Money Moment the Podcast, Jeb Graham, Ethan Hutcheson, Eric Wymore, Financial Planning, IRAs, 401ks, Retirement Planning, Metcalf Money Moment, IRA Contributions, Tax Breaks, Stock Options, 529 Savings Plan, Roth Conversion, Charitable Donations, Tax Law Changes, Portfolio Diversification, Financial Strategy, Investment Goals, Tax-Loss Harvesting, Financial Decisions, Contribution Limits, Estate Planning, Ethan Hutcheson, Jeb Graham, Eric Wymore

Ep 2 Annie Burndrett Maximizing Your Philanthropy: Charitable Giving Through the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:15:00 -0400

Welcome to Metcalf Money Moment, where hosts Jeb Graham, Ethan Hutcheson, and Eric Wymore explore the world of charitable giving with special guest Annie Burndrett from the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation. In this episode, Annie shares insights into the foundation’s mission, its unique donor-advised funds (DAFs), and how they help individuals maximize their charitable impact while minimizing taxes. Annie explains how charitable giving can be planned around taxable events like business sales or IRA distributions and how strategies like “bunching” donations can help donors take full advantage of tax deductions. They also discuss the power of multi-generational giving and the numerous scholarship opportunities available to support students. Tune in to learn how to make a lasting difference in your community through strategic charitable giving.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(1:04) Shares the purpose of the Kansas City Community Foundation and the different funds they have for charitable giving and philanthropy
(2:50) Tax strategies for the donor-advised funds
(6:35) Preplanning for a taxable event
(8:38) Annie defines the term bunching, designated funds and the hundreds of scholarship funds they have and the service they provide to students
(13:04) Annie describes how to get set up with the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Donor-advised funds (DAFs) are a powerful tool for tax-efficient charitable giving. High-income earners can maximize tax deductions during their peak earning years by contributing to a DAF, growing those assets, and earmarking them for future giving, such as retirement donations. A common strategy is donating appreciated stock, which avoids capital gains taxes. For instance, if an investment bought for $20,000 appreciates to $100,000, donating it to a DAF eliminates the $80,000 capital gain tax while allowing a deduction for the stock's full fair market value. Contributions can be distributed to charities over time, providing flexibility and maximizing impact.
Bunching is a strategy in which donors contribute more significant amounts to a donor-advised fund in specific years. This enables them to itemize deductions and maximize tax benefits while disbursing funds to charities over multiple years, which can result in significant tax savings and more effective philanthropic planning.
Greater Kansas City Community Foundation offers opportunities for multi-generational giving, where families can continue philanthropic efforts across generations. Additionally, donors can establish scholarship funds to support students, with the community foundation handling all aspects of the fund management and scholarship distribution.

RESOURCES:

Annie Burndrett - LinkedIn

To Apply for Scholarships by Community Foundation - Website

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation - Website

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Annie Redlingshafer Burndrett is a Business Development Advisor at the Greater

Kansas City Community Foundation and its national entity, Greater Horizons.

With an asset base of more than $6 billion, the Community Foundation is a national

leader in charitable giving services, providing donors with a best-in-class platform of

charitable tools including donor-advised funds, scholarship funds and other charitable

investment accounts.

In her role, Annie collaborates with financial advisors, wealth managers and other

professional advisors to help them maximize their clients’ charitable dollars and build

charitable legacies across multiple generations.

Prior to joining the Community Foundation team in 2023, Annie was a financial advisor,

guiding individuals and families through their most important financial decisions,

including setting aside assets for charitable giving.

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

Metcalf Money Moment the Podcast, Jeb Graham, Ethan Hutcheson, Eric Wymore, Financial Education, Wealth Management, Charitable Giving, Retirement Planning, Estate Planning, Investment Management, Financial Strategies, Client-Centric, Financial Planning, Trusted Advisors, Financial Empowerment

Ep 1 Navigating Wealth and Planning with Metcalf Money Moment

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosted by Jeb Graham, Ethan Hutcheson, and Eric Wymore. In this first episode, we’ll share why we created this podcast—to provide practical strategies and insights for your financial journey. Whether it's wealth management, retirement planning, estate planning, or investment management, we’re here to break down complex topics into actionable advice. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge to make informed decisions so you can confidently navigate your financial future. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes, including our next one, where we’ll dive into the important topic of charitable giving.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(0:31) The purpose of Metcalf Money Moments - Financial Education
(2:51) Send in topic suggestions to the links below and discussion regarding educating clients
(5:10) Discussion of the format for the podcast
(7:24) Eric, Ethan and Jeb share their career journeys
(12:50) The next podcast will feature charitable giving

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The podcast demonstrates a strong client-centric approach. By offering accessible financial education, Metcalf Partners aims to empower clients with knowledge, improve their financial decision-making, and deepen their understanding of their financial plans.
Metcalf Partners represents thought leadership in the financial industry. They establish themselves as knowledgeable and trusted advisors by consistently sharing insights and perspectives on current market trends and financial planning strategies.
Metcalf Partners fosters a deeper connection with its clients and reinforces its commitment to exceptional service by providing ongoing communication and valuable content.

RESOURCES: