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What does it actually take to build a career and a life you don't want to escape from?   In this episode of More Than Commas, Paul sits down with Jamie Moraga, founder of a woman-owned military and defense engineering business, author of Revered: The Power of Female Leadership, and a CEO who successfully exited her company via M&A, to talk about what it really looks like running a household with two CEOs, raising a son in the middle of it, and navigating a male-dominated industry as a young founder.   They discuss compartmentalizing work and home life, designing intentional family practices, teaching kids about ambition and balance, proving doubters wrong, and the moment a friend's offhand comment, "it's not gonna say 'Best CEO' on your Tombstone," permanently changed how Jamie measures success.   More importantly, this conversation is a reminder that a thriving career means nothing if it costs you the life you were building it for, and that real success means weaving both together, on purpose.   -- Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:03 – Meet Jamie 06:59 – Two CEOs, one household 11:24 – Raising a kid with two CEO parents 20:29 – Being underestimated, then proving it wrong 25:35 – Navigating a male-dominated industry 28:49 – A $25,000 bonus that became $25 31:23 – The Tombstone moment   #WomenInLeadership #WorkLifeBalance #FemaleFounder #DualCareerHousehold #CareerAndFamily #IntentionalLiving #ExecutiveLeadership #MoreThanCommas #PaulAdams #careertips #leadership #wealthbuilding  -- By providing this material, we are not providing investment advice tailored to any specific individual or situation, and the distribution of this material alone does not create an advisory or fiduciary relationship. Please contact one of our financial professionals for guidance and information specific to your individual situation. Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group and individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions. This podcast is meant for general informational purposes and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. You should consult a financial professional regarding your individual situation. Guest speakers are not affiliated with Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group unless otherwise stated, and their opinions are their own. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

What does it actually take to hire the right people -- and build a team that makes you better?   In this episode of More Than Commas, Paul sits down with Jaidin McCann -- President of PeopleConnect Staffing, HR executive, and founder who has built six companies and led three successful exits -- to talk about the real game of talent acquisition, executive hiring, and what separates great leaders from those who get stuck.   They discuss A-players, insecure leadership, company culture, the hidden job market, salary negotiation, and the hard truths about what it really takes to move from director to C-suite -- without losing your integrity in the process.   More importantly, this conversation is a reminder that who you hire shapes who you become -- and that building the right team may be one of the most important decisions a leader ever makes.   -- Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:28 – Meet Jaidin McCann 02:16 – What makes an A-player 06:29 – Reading a company's culture before you accept 10:49 – Asking tough interview questions without losing the offer 18:51 – Tapping into the hidden job market 20:20 – Breaking through to the C-suite 27:02 – The Coldplay CEO scandal 32:32 – When to bring up compensation 37:19 – Connect with Jaidin -- #TalentAcquisition #ExecutiveHiring #LeadershipDevelopment #CompanyCulture #CareerGrowth #HiddenJobMarket #SalaryNegotiation #HRLeadership #MoreThanCommas #PaulAdams #hiring #leadership #careertips #executivecoaching #wealthbuilding   A short Coldplay clip is used in this episode for educational and commentary purposes only. Credit to the original owner. All rights belong to their respective owners. No copyright infringement intended. -- By providing this material, we are not providing investment advice tailored to any specific individual or situation, and the distribution of this material alone does not create an advisory or fiduciary relationship. Please contact one of our financial professionals for guidance and information specific to your individual situation. Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group and individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions. This podcast is meant for general informational purposes and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. You should consult a financial professional regarding your individual situation. Guest speakers are not affiliated with Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group unless otherwise stated, and their opinions are their own. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

We skipped the 3-hour line. And it cost us more than our mortgage payment. Paul Adams just got back from Disneyland with his family - and he's not sorry about what he spent. In this video, he breaks down the one upgrade that turned a chaotic, line-standing, schedule-juggling Disney trip into something his family will talk about for years. But this isn't just a Disney hack video. Because halfway through the trip, Paul and his wife sat in a room in Coronado and were asked a question that stopped them cold: Have you planned for your family's legacy as intentionally as you've planned for your career? That question - and what it means for how you spend your time, your money, and your years with your kids still at home - is what this video is really about. Timestamps: 00:27 – The "cheat code" that changed everything 01:57 – Lightning Lane Multi Pass vs. Premier Pass -- what's the difference? 02:52 – What does it really cost? Cherry runs the math on screen 03:52 – Guardians of the Galaxy: 3-hour standby vs. 55 minutes 04:20 – All top rides in both parks -- finished before noon 06:03 – Paul's exact 2-day Disneyland playbook 06:55 – It's not about saving money -- it's about the life your money produces 07:39 – The Coronado marriage retreat and the question most families never ask   #Disneyland #LightningLanePremierPass #FamilyVacation #PersonalFinance #MoneyMindset #FamilyLegacy #WealthBuilding #LifestyleDesign #SoundFinancialGroup #PaulAdams #DisneyTips #FinancialPlanning #IntentionalSpending #MoreThanCommas #DisneylandHacks --  This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific individual or situation, or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Please contact one of our financial professionals for guidance and information specific to your individual situation. Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group and individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions. This podcast is meant for general informational purposes and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. You should consult a financial professional regarding your individual situation. Guest speakers are not affiliated with Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group unless otherwise stated, and their opinions are their own. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

What does it take to beat the odds, reach the NFL, and successfully reinvent yourself when one chapter ends? In this episode of More Than Commas, Paul sits down with former NFL player Jordan Babineaux to discuss resilience, leadership, and navigating life's biggest transitions. Jordan shares his journey from a challenging childhood in Texas to a nine-year NFL career, and the lessons he learned about overcoming adversity, embracing change, and finding purpose beyond football. They explore mindset, personal growth, identity, and why the ability to pivot may be one of the most important skills for long-term success. -- Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:55 – Jordan's early life and family story 10:20 – The road to the NFL 20:30 – Lessons from professional football 29:00 – Life after the NFL 44:30 – Leadership and personal growth 51:00 – Pivot to Win 58:00 – Final thoughts -- #JordanBabineaux #NFL #Leadership #PersonalDevelopment #PivotToWin #Resilience #GrowthMindset #Entrepreneurship #MoreThanCommas #successmindset  -- This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific individual or situation, or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Please contact one of our financial professionals for guidance and information specific to your individual situation. Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group and individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions. This podcast is meant for general informational purposes and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. You should consult a financial professional regarding your individual situation. Guest speakers are not affiliated with Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group unless otherwise stated, and their opinions are their own. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

Is MicroStrategy's new preferred stock STRC really the next big financial product — or just a shiny object designed to harvest your savings?   In this episode of More Than Commas, Paul breaks down STRC, MicroStrategy's preferred stock promising 11% annual returns paid monthly — and why those numbers deserve a much closer look. Using a Coffeezilla analysis as a jumping-off point, Paul unpacks exactly how this product works, who it's really designed for, and what the fine print means for everyday investors.   They cover the mechanics behind STRC, its deep ties to Bitcoin, the risks most people overlook, and why comparing it to a bank account or money market fund is dangerously misleading.   More importantly, this episode is a reminder that when something promises double-digit returns with minimal explanation, the real question isn't how much you could gain — it's what you could lose. --  Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to STRC and MicroStrategy 01:30 – What STRC is and how it works 05:00 – The 11% return promise explained 09:45 – Coffeezilla's analysis breakdown 15:20 – Bitcoin exposure and concentrated risk 20:10 – Why STRC is not a bank or money market account 25:30 – Red flags in the pitch and financial engineering 30:00 – What retail investors need to know 35:00 – Final thoughts and long-term strategy reminders -- #microstrategy #bitcoin #STRC #investingtips #wealthbuilding #financialeducation #morethancommas #personalfinance #cryptowarning #financialplanning  -- This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific individual or situation, or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Please contact one of our financial professionals for guidance and information specific to your individual situation. Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group and individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions. This podcast is meant for general informational purposes and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. You should consult a financial professional regarding your individual situation. Guest speakers are not affiliated with Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group unless otherwise stated, and their opinions are their own. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

What does it actually take to build a meaningful career inside some of the world's most demanding organizations?   In this episode of More Than Commas, Paul sits down with Jesse Rhodes Jr. — executive leadership coach, entrepreneur, and former leader at Amazon, Deloitte, Walmart, and Target — to unpack the mindset, leadership principles, and career decisions that shaped his professional journey.   They discuss ambition, purpose, leadership, AI in the workplace, navigating career transitions, and what it really takes to grow in high-performance environments without losing yourself in the process.   More importantly, this conversation explores how values-driven leadership, self-awareness, and continuous growth can shape both personal fulfillment and long-term professional success.     -- Timestamps: 00:05 – Introduction to Jesse Rogers Jr. 00:56 – Jesse's career journey through major companies 02:13 – Early lessons that shaped his career 06:58 – The importance of curiosity and learning 10:22 – Transitioning through different leadership roles 13:58 – Understanding people and values-based leadership 17:58 – Daily habits, mindset, and staying grounded 21:42 – Measuring success and team performance 24:18 – AI, leadership, and the future of work 26:42 – Advice for professionals adapting to AI 30:20 – Final thoughts and where to connect with Jesse   #leadership #careergrowth #amazon #artificialintelligence #professionaldevelopment #wealthbuilding #podcast  -- This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific individual or situation, or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Please contact one of our financial professionals for guidance and information specific to your individual situation. Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group and individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions. This podcast is meant for general informational purposes and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. You should consult a financial professional regarding your individual situation. Guest speakers are not affiliated with Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group unless otherwise stated, and their opinions are their own. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

Robert Kiyosaki helped change how millions of people think about money. But what happens when a voice that once educated and empowered starts leaning into fear-based predictions?   In this episode of More Than Commas, Paul takes a closer look at Kiyosaki's evolution—from the impact of Rich Dad, Poor Dad to his repeated market crash warnings—and breaks down what he predicted vs. what actually happened.   More importantly, we explore how these narratives can influence investor behavior, why fear-based messaging spreads so easily, and what investors should focus on instead to build real, long-term wealth.   -- Timestamps: 00:20 – The impact of Robert Kiyosaki's early work 01:01 – When the message began to shift 01:09 – From education to fear-based predictions 01:21 – What this episode will break down 01:46 – Why his early contributions still matter 01:53 – The success of Rich Dad, Poor Dad   #investing #stockmarket #financialeducation #wealthbuilding #longterminvesting    -- This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific individual or situation, or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Please contact one of our financial professionals for guidance and information specific to your individual situation. Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group and individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions. This podcast is meant for general informational purposes and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. You should consult a financial professional regarding your individual situation. Guest speakers are not affiliated with Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group unless otherwise stated, and their opinions are their own. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

Why do financial influencers keep predicting the next big market crash—and why do people keep listening? In this episode of More Than Commas, we break down the real incentive behind repeated crash predictions, how attention drives extreme forecasts, and why being "right once" can be more profitable than being consistently accurate. Then, in a completely unexpected turn, we follow through on a wild real-life experiment involving a Cybertruck and a boat ramp—highlighting how reality doesn't always go as planned. -- Timestamps: 00:00 – Financial influencers + Cybertruck teaser 00:11 – Why influencers benefit from predicting crashes 00:30 – Example: Kiyosaki and Michael Burry notoriety 01:51 – Cybertruck story setup near boat ramp 03:06 – Self-driving mistake near the lake #Cybertruck #investing #stockmarket #financialeducation #wealthbuilding #longterminvesting  Next Episode: Robert Kiyosaki changed how millions think about money—but what happens when the message shifts? We take a closer look at his evolution, his repeated market crash predictions, and what investors can learn from separating valuable principles from fear-driven narratives. -- This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific individual or situation, or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Please contact one of our financial professionals for guidance and information specific to your individual situation. Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group and individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions. This podcast is meant for general informational purposes and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. You should consult a financial professional regarding your individual situation. Guest speakers are not affiliated with Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group unless otherwise stated, and their opinions are their own. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

Many investors worry about the next stock market crash because financial media constantly predicts one.   In this episode of More Than Commas, Paul Adams explains why crash predictions are so common, why most of them never happen, and the real reason investors often underperform the market.   More importantly, he breaks down how disciplined, evidence-based investing helps investors stay focused on long-term results instead of reacting to market noise.   -- Timestamps: 00:00 – Why market crash predictions are everywhere 00:37 – Headlines vs long-term investing 10:08 – How disciplined investors prepare for crashes 10:39 – The real problem: reactionary investor behavior 11:06 – Why investors actually underperform 11:53 – Principles that help investors ignore the noise   #investing #stockmarket #financialeducation #wealthbuilding #longterminvesting  Next Episode: Paul investigates a viral claim: Can a Tesla Cybertruck actually float? 🚙🌊 What starts as a simple test turns into a surprising lesson about internet hype, headlines, and why skepticism matters.   -- This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific individual or situation, or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Please contact one of our financial professionals for guidance and information specific to your individual situation. Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group and individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions. This podcast is meant for general informational purposes and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. You should consult a financial professional regarding your individual situation. Guest speakers are not affiliated with Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group unless otherwise stated, and their opinions are their own. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

In this episode, Cory addresses recent market volatility and encourages investors to stay calm and disciplined. Recorded amid geopolitical uncertainty in the Middle East and fluctuating oil prices, Cory walks through historical market data, including recovery rates after downturns and the cost of missing the market's best days, to reassure listeners that short-term volatility is normal.   His core message: a sound long-term strategy, patience, and staying invested are the keys to financial success. -- -- Timestamps: 00:06 – Introduction and overview of the week's market activity 01:40 – What your portfolio might look like right now 02:15 – Putting the downturn in perspective with a one-year view 03:10 – Looking back at past volatility and market recoveries 04:06 – Breaking down US oil imports and Middle East dependency 05:20 – Historical data since 1926: average returns after a 10% market drop 06:29 – The cost of missing the market's best days 07:45 – Staying the course: why time in the market beats timing the market   -- This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific individual or situation, or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Please contact one of our financial professionals for guidance and information specific to your individual situation. Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group and individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions. This podcast is meant for general informational purposes and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. You should consult a financial professional regarding your individual situation. Guest speakers are not affiliated with Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group unless otherwise stated, and their opinions are their own. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

What if the reason you struggle with time management isn't a lack of discipline, but biology? In this episode, Paul sits down with Dr. Cody Sandzimier, founder and owner of Redmond Spine Center and creator of the Loop Timer, to explore the surprising science behind how humans perceive time. The conversation dives into neuroscience, psychology, productivity, and practical strategies you can use immediately to reduce stress, improve focus, and get more done without burnout. You'll learn why humans don't actually have a "sensory organ" for time, how our brains rely on external cues to understand duration, and why visual timers and progress indicators can dramatically change how you work and live. Learn more about the Loop Timer: https://looptimer.com/   --- Timestamps: 00:00 — Welcome & Episode Intro 01:30 — Meet Dr. Cody & The Loop Timer Origin 05:00 — Why Humans Don't Have a Sense of Time 08:00 — Visual Progress Bars & Time Awareness 12:00 — Time Perception Experiments & Casino Psychology 14:30 — The 90-Minute Productivity Rule 18:00 — ADHD, Neurodivergence & Cognitive Load 22:30 — Practical Time Management Tips   --- This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific individual or situation, or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Please contact one of our financial professionals for guidance and information specific to your individual situation. Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group and individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions. This podcast is meant for general informational purposes and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. You should consult a financial professional regarding your individual situation. Guest speakers are not affiliated with Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group unless otherwise stated, and their opinions are their own. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

In this episode of More Than Commas, SFG President Cory Shepherd sits down with CEO of Trail CPA, Trent Trailov, to break down the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction and how business owners can strategically use it to reduce taxes. If you earn non-W2 income, own a business, or operate as a consultant, financial professional, or service-based business owner, this conversation walks through who qualifies, income thresholds to watch, and real strategies to maximize tax savings. You'll also hear practical examples showing how the right planning decisions, like business expenses, charitable giving, and retirement contributions, can unlock tens of thousands of dollars in tax savings. -- Timestamps: 03:10 – What Is the Qualified Business Income (QBI) Deduction? 06:15 – QBI Income Phaseouts Explained (Single vs. Married Filers) 08:20 – Real Example: Using Business Expenses to Qualify for QBI 10:55 – Which Businesses Need to Be Careful? (SSTB Rules) 14:05 – Business Expenses vs. Charitable Contributions 16:45 – Additional Strategies to Get Below the QBI Threshold 20:40 – Final Takeaways & What to Watch Going Into 2026    -- This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific individual or situation, or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Please contact one of our financial professionals for guidance and information specific to your individual situation. Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group and individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions. This podcast is meant for general informational purposes and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. You should consult a financial professional regarding your individual situation. Guest speakers are not affiliated with Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group unless otherwise stated, and their opinions are their own. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

In this episode, Paul sits down with estate planning attorney Derek Wayne Jensen to demystify what estate planning really involves and why it's far more than drafting a simple will. Derek explains how planning evolves over a lifetime, beginning with young adults choosing beneficiaries, through major life milestones, to complex multi-generational legacy planning. They explore the biggest misconceptions, including the belief that estate planning is "one and done," and discuss why outdated beneficiary designations routinely undermine even the best plans. Derek also highlights triggers that should prompt a review: health scares, major purchases, business exits, new children or grandchildren, and significant increases in wealth. The conversation ends with practical guidance for high earners, business owners, and anyone whose documents are more than five years old. -- About Derek: Derek W. Jensen, JD, LLM, is a tax attorney and the founder of the North Seattle law firm, Jensen Estate Law, to assist individuals and their families with complex issues surrounding federal income tax, state and federal estate tax, estate law, business law, elder law and asset protection. Derek is a trusted advisor, with over 25 years of experience helping clients achieve their estate and tax planning goals. He makes it his priority to listen and mold documents for each unique case that happens upon him, while addressing all concerns his clients may have. Podcast: Who Gets What on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, Youtube, and RSS Instagram: @ jensenestatelaw Facebook: Jensen Estate Law X (Twitter): @ JensenEstateLaw   -- Timestamps: 01:11 – What estate planning really is (beyond wills and trusts) 02:15 – Why planning starts with young adults and evolves over life 03:37 – Biggest misconception: estate planning is "one and done" 05:05 – When to DIY vs. when to hire an attorney 06:29 – Why beneficiary designations often override your will 09:47 – Estate tax thresholds and the "life-stage" planning framework 13:00 – Essential documents every adult should have (POA, healthcare directives)   -- This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific individual or situation or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Please contact one of our financial professionals for guidance and information specific to your individual situation. Sound Financial LLC dba Sound Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Sound Financial LLC dba Sound Financial Group and individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions. This podcast is meant for general informational purposes and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. You should consult a financial professional regarding your individual situation. Guest speakers are not affiliated with Sound Financial LLC dba Sound Financial Group unless otherwise stated, and their opinions are their own. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

Scott Adams Excerpt: I Will Rewire Your Brains to Relieve Anxiety https://youtu.be/nWhKDqwgyv8?si=vhTXfZzLTLKLwbFa We're excited to share a special throwback edition of this episode, released as a little Christmas gift to you. To set the stage, Paul explains why this conversation still matters and why we felt it was worth revisiting. This episode originally sparked a lot of thoughtful discussion, and listening back now, it's clear just how relevant the insights remain. Whether you're hearing it for the first time or coming back to it with fresh perspective, there's plenty here to reflect on, especially during this season of gratitude, rest, and renewal. Consider this our way of saying thank you for being part of the community and continuing to engage with these conversations. We hope this throwback brings value, perspective, and maybe even a bit of nostalgia as you wrap up the year. Enjoy the episode, and happy holidays! -- This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific individual or situation, or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Please contact one of our financial professionals for guidance and information specific to your individual situation. Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group and individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions. This podcast is meant for general informational purposes and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. You should consult a financial professional regarding your individual situation. Guest speakers are not affiliated with Sound Financial Inc. dba Sound Financial Group unless otherwise stated, and their opinions are their own. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

In this episode of More Than Commas, Cory breaks down one of the biggest questions in investing today: Is AI in a bubble? Using clarity, and a Three Stooges analogy, Cory explores how companies like OpenAI, Nvidia, Oracle, and others have created a tightly interwoven financial ecosystem, one that looks innovative, but also suspiciously like a closed loop of money, growth assumptions, and circular investments. He explains how "round tripping" works, why OpenAI loses money on every prompt you enter, and how Nvidia's rapidly aging chips complicate long-term value. Drawing parallels to the dot-com boom, Cory highlights what's different this time, and what isn't. Most importantly, he offers clear guidance: diversify, understand the risks beyond hype, and stay grounded in timeless financial principles. A timely deep-dive for anyone watching AI stocks soar and wondering what's really happening behind the scenes.   -- Hank Green (The State of the AI Industry is Freaking Me Out): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0TpWitfxPk The Knowledge Project (Anthony Scilipoti: The Bubble No One is Talking About): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/anthony-scilipoti-the-bubble-no-one-is-talking-about/id990149481?i=1000733851707   -- Timestamps: 01:00 – Three Stooges clip and fractional-reserve analogy 02:20 – How banks differ from AI company structures 03:10 – OpenAI, Nvidia, Oracle and the AI investment loop 05:30 – Visualizing round-tripping (Bloomberg + Hank Green) 06:55 – Why AI firms lose money on every user interaction 08:20 – Lessons from the dot-com bubble and infrastructure 09:40 – Diversification: why owning the whole market matters 11:20 – Closing thoughts: bubble, boom, or something bigger?   -- This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific individual or situation or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Please contact one of our financial professionals for guidance and information specific to your individual situation. Sound Financial LLC dba Sound Financial Group is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Sound Financial LLC dba Sound Financial Group and individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions. This podcast is meant for general informational purposes and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. You should consult a financial professional regarding your individual situation. Guest speakers are not affiliated with Sound Financial LLC dba Sound Financial Group unless otherwise stated, and their opinions are their own. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.