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How can generosity fit seamlessly into your financial plan and maximize tax efficiency? In this episode of Money Sense, wealth advisors Jamie Williams and Heather Deaton explore how charitable giving can fit into a well‑rounded financial plan. They discuss how generosity can be both personal and strategic, while still supporting long‑term family and financial goals. The conversation is grounded in the Five T’s of Philanthropy: time, talent, treasure, ties, and testimony. Using real examples, they highlight the many ways individuals and families can give back beyond writing a check. 00:00 Why Philanthropy Is Core to the EIG Culture 03:40 Defining Your “Why” in Charitable Giving 07:30 The Five T’s of Philanthropy 12:45 Volunteering & Real‑World Impact 18:10 Securities, DAFs & Tax Efficiency 28:50 QCDs, RMDs & Retirement‑Based Giving 34:40 Legacy Giving, Estate Planning & Beneficiaries 41:20 Final Takeaways #MoneySensePodcast #CharitableGiving #FinancialPlanning #Philanthropy #LegacyPlanning #TaxEfficientGiving #ValuesBasedPlanning ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group

How do you raise kids who feel confident making money decisions? In this episode, wealth advisors Kristina Schnuckel and Heather Deaton share how their own families have approached allowances, saving, and early financial decisions, alongside what they see working with clients and their kids. 00:00 Raising Money-Confident Kids 05:00 Allowances, Chores, and Teaching Kids Financial Responsibility 09:15 Savings vs. Spending and Building Impulse Control 13:00 Teaching Kids About Charitable Giving and Family Values 14:10 Helping Kids Understand Money Through Cash Flow and Spending Awareness 26:00 Savings, Investing, and Financial Accounts for Kids 36:45 Launching Kids into Adulthood with Financial Confidence #MoneySensePodcast #FinancialPlanning #MoneyLessonsForKids #KidsAndMoney #TeachingKidsAboutMoney #RaisingMoneyConfidentKids #FinancialParenting ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

Mortgage rates may be higher than what many homeowners and buyers have grown used to in recent years, but thoughtful planning can still open the door to smart opportunities. In this episode, wealth advisors Jamie Williams and Tammy Niemann explore today’s mortgage landscape and how it fits into your overall financial plan, drawing on Tammy’s deep lending background and Jamie’s planning‑first perspective. Mortgage Lending Then vs. Now Understanding Today’s Interest Rate Environment Mortgage Options and Borrowing Strategies Credit, Income, and Mortgage Approval Specialized Lending: Second Homes, Construction, and Renovations Home Equity Lines of Credit Integrating Mortgage Decisions into Financial Planning #MoneySensePodcast #MortgagePlanning #FinancialPlanning #RealEstateStrategy #FiduciaryAdvice #WealthPlanning #Homeownership #InterestRates #SmarterBorrowing #EllenbeckerInvestmentGroup ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: https://www.ellenbecker.com/ This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

Early 2026 opened with optimism around AI, but rising oil prices and geopolitical tension quickly shifted sentiment. Mike Roth explains what changed, why rate cuts may be fewer than expected, and where volatility creates both risk and opportunity. 00:00 Welcome to Money Sense 02:04 Q1 2026 Market Overview 06:34 Why AI Is Driving Market Volatility 15:55 Iran, Oil Shocks & Global Market Impact 21:03 The Fog of War: Headlines vs Reality 23:32 Interest Rates & Fed Cuts in 2026 24:46 AI Winners, Losers & Valuation Shifts 29:39 Understanding Private Credit 37:47 How Today’s Economy Affects Everyday Life #MarketOutlook #EconomicUpdate #Inflation #InterestRates #FederalReserve #Geopolitics #OilPrices #AIInvesting #ArtificialIntelligence #StockMarket #WealthManagement #FinancialPlanning #PrivateCredit #MarketVolatility #MoneySensePodcast ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

Take the mystery out of legacy planning, no matter your age or stage. Estate planning attorney Erick Fabyan breaks down the conversations, documents, and decisions families should consider before they matter. From wills and trusts to beneficiary designations, powers of attorney, family conversations, and end‑of‑life instructions, this episode offers a practical roadmap for beginning—or updating—your estate plan. Jamie and Eric also share real stories and clear examples that reveal why planning early matters, how to avoid common mistakes, and the small steps that provide major peace of mind. What We Cover: ✅ Why every adult needs basic estate planning documents ✅ The difference between wills and trusts (and why most families benefit from a trust) ✅ How beneficiary designations work—and the pitfalls to avoid ✅ Choosing powers of attorney for financial and medical decisions ✅ Keeping your documents current and aligned with your wishes ✅ Planning for funeral expenses and ensuring liquidity ✅ How to structure family conversations that prevent conflict ✅ Digital legacy planning (passwords, online accounts, phone access & more) Whether you're planning for your own future or helping aging parents, this conversation will help you take the next right step with confidence. #EstatePlanning #LegacyPlanning #FinancialPlanning #EndOfLifePlanning #TrustsAndWills #BeneficiaryDesignations #PowersOfAttorney #FamilyFinances #FinancialWellbeing #MoneySensePodcast #EIG #EllenbeckerInvestmentGroup #FinancialEducation ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: https://www.ellenbecker.com/ This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

Tax planning plays a critical role in financial success. In this episode of Money Sense, Karen Ellenbecker sits down with Sandra Geisler, Director of Tax Planning at Ellenbecker Investment Group, to explore how thoughtful tax decisions today can strengthen your retirement, reduce surprises, and help your money work smarter for you. Karen and Sandra break down 2026 tax law changes, the importance of planning ahead, and the strategies retirees often overlook. They also share how to strategically manage Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), use Roth IRAs and tax‑efficient accounts to your advantage, and apply gifting rules to protect your estate and support the causes you care about. Why does this matter? Because without proactive planning, you risk higher taxes and a less efficient path toward the legacy you hope to leave. #TaxPlanning #TaxStrategy #RetirementPlanning #TaxAdvice #SocialSecurityPlanning #RMDPlanning #QCDs #2026TaxChanges #WealthManagement #MoneySensePodcast ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

If the mortgage process feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. Wealth Advisor Kristina Schnuckel and Loan Officer Ben Revak join Money Sense to simplify rates, lenders, and the steps every buyer should understand before making an offer. Together, they break down the key differences between purchases and refinances, why transparency from your lender matters, how rate locks actually work, and the questions every borrower should ask to avoid last‑minute stress at closing. Ben also shares his educational approach, the importance of selecting the right loan officer, and the biggest mistakes he sees homebuyers make, plus how to prevent them. Connect with Ben Revak at [email protected] or provisor.com/team/ben-revak. #MortgageEducation #HomebuyingTips #MortgageAdvice #MoneySensePodcast #EIG ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: https://www.ellenbecker.com/ This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

In a market where nothing seems available, this episode breaks down how people are still finding the right home and the strategies that make it possible. Karen Ellenbecker sits down with Shorewest Realtor Beth Jaworski for a conversation about today’s housing reality: tight inventory, a shortage of condos, and the wave of apartment development that’s reshaping options for buyers and downsizers alike. Beth explains what’s driving the shortage and why so many would‑be sellers feel “stuck,” then shares practical ways to create flexibility like using a home‑equity line of credit to buy first and sell second, staging for maximum return, and timing your move to reduce stress. You’ll learn what buyers prioritize today, the simple updates that make the biggest difference, and the offer strategies that help you compete in a fast‑moving market. We also talk about building the right team, from decluttering support to contractors and lenders, and why preparation is the key to successful buying and selling in any season. Connect with Beth Jaworski at [email protected] or visit bethjaworski.com for additional resources and listings. #RealEstateTips #HousingMarket2026 #HomeBuyingAdvice #DownsizingJourney #WisconsinRealEstate #MoneySensePodcast #EIG #HomeSellingTips ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

In this episode, wealth advisor Jamie Williams is joined by Dick Schiller of Pavlic Investment Advisors for a clear look at the fixed income landscape in early 2026. Together, they break down how today’s bond ladders are structured, what yields look like across one‑ to ten‑year maturities, and why reinvestment and interest‑rate risk feel different than they did just a few years ago. Jamie and Dick also highlight how the broader market backdrop supports the case for high‑quality bonds and how a thoughtful allocation can help protect five to six years of income needs. They discuss: Current yield ranges across one‑ to ten‑year investment‑grade corporate bonds Why bond ladders help stabilize plans in a shifting rate environment How reinvestment risk affects CDs and money markets The difference between individual bonds and bond funds How to evaluate quality when selecting fixed income holdings How fixed income supports a balanced allocation as volatility returns Register for our March 12th webinar on travel insurance here: bit.ly/4ccSKga ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

What if retirement felt more like a graduation rather than an ending? Host Karen Ellenbecker sits down with retirement transition expert Elizabeth Parsons to uncover why so many high achievers “fail” at traditional retirement and how to design a chapter filled with purpose. In this episode, Elizabeth Parsons, author of "A High Achiever’s Guide to Thriving in Retirement", breaks down the emotional and identity shifts that often catch people off guard. She explains why financial readiness is only one piece of the puzzle and shares practical strategies for building community, redefining daily structure, and experimenting with new roles that keep life meaningful and energizing. Karen Ellenbecker also reflects on her own journey, including her attempt at a traditional Florida retirement, the loss of structure that surprised her, and the joy she rediscovered through writing, philanthropy, travel, and staying intellectually active. Their conversation offers an honest look at what retirement can feel like behind the scenes and how to create a life that continues to grow, stretch, and inspire you. To learn more, visit highachieverretirement.com, connect with Elizabeth on LinkedIn by searching Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons, or explore her book "A High Achiever’s Guide to Thriving in Retirement", available online and through major book retailers. #RetirementRedefined #PurposefulLiving #ThrivingInRetirement #NextChapter #MoneySensePodcast #EIGWealth ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

What happens when you’re named the trustee of a loved one’s estate? In this episode, wealth advisor Heather Deaton and estate planning attorney Phil Remmers break down the trustee’s role and explain how to navigate the responsibility with clarity and confidence. Phil Remmers of Kramer‑Maltoff brings more than 25 years of estate planning experience to the conversation. Together, he and Heather walk through the practical steps every trustee must address—from gathering documents and organizing assets to managing real estate, distributing personal property, and working with advisors. Listeners will also learn how to choose the right trustee, what qualities matter most, and how to prepare loved ones in advance. Phil explains trustee liability, communication best practices, and how to wrap up an estate cleanly through accountings, receipts, releases, and final tax filings. To learn more about Phil Remmers and his work, contact him at [email protected] or 262‑542‑4278. #EstatePlanning #TrusteeDuties #FinancialPlanning #LegacyPlanning #WealthTransfer #MoneySensePodcast #EIGWealth ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: www.ellenbecker.com/ This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group. 

In this episode of “Money Sense”, host Karen Ellenbecker is joined by her daughter, Julie Ellenbecker‑Lipsky, President and Senior Wealth Advisor at Ellenbecker Investment Group. Together, they open up about what generational wealth means today, how it differs across age groups, and why legacy is about far more than financial assets. They discuss: Why legacy is less about numbers and more about values How different generations think about saving, giving, and financial security The rising trend of lifetime gifting and why more parents are helping adult children earlier The importance of modeling healthy financial behaviors Why family conversations around money matter, and how to start them How EIG’s Wealth Seed initiative supports emerging investors Whether you’re thinking about your own legacy, supporting adult children, or finding ways to empower the next generation, this episode offers personal stories, practical insights, and actionable steps to help your family talk more openly about wealth and values. #GenerationalWealth #LegacyPlanning #FamilyFinance #EIG #MoneySensePodcast #FinancialEducation #WealthSeed #FinancialConfidence #EmergingInvestors ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: https://www.ellenbecker.com/ This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group. 

Ever wondered how to turn money stress into financial strength? Join Karen Ellenbecker and Anne Lester as they delve into practical strategies for building a secure financial future. In this episode, Anne Lester, a former JP Morgan executive and money mentor, shares her expert advice on transforming your relationship with money. Discover the five-step framework that can help you save for a rainy day, manage debt, and maximize your retirement savings. For more information, visit https://annelester.com/ or check out her award-winning book “Your Best Financial Life". It’s available in stores and through online retailers like Amazon. #FinancialFuture #MoneyMatters #MoneyManagement #FinancialAdvice #SecureFuture #MoneySensePodcast #EIGWealth ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: https://www.ellenbecker.com/ This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group. 

What would happen if tomorrow you became the primary caregiver for a loved one? Most families think they have time, but the reality is caregiving crises hit fast and hard. Today, “Money Sense” host Karen Ellenbecker is joined by Annalee Kruger, founder of Care Right Inc., to discuss why planning ahead is essential. Annalee shares insight from nearly 30 years of experience helping families plan for aging, dementia, and long-term care. She breaks down the emotional, financial, and physical costs of caregiving, the complexities of caring for loved ones with dementia, and how families can plan for aging parents while also protecting their own future care needs. The conversation also addresses the challenge of balancing caregiving responsibilities with careers and family life. For more information, visit www.carerightinc.com or check out Annalee’s book “The Invisible Patient: The Emotional, Financial, and Physical Toll on Family Caregivers”. It’s available in stores and through online retailers like Amazon. #Caregiving #AgingPlanning #DementiaCare #LongTermCare #FinancialPlanning #MoneySensePodcast #EIG #Wealth ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: https://www.ellenbecker.com/ This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group. 

When it comes to retirement, few decisions carry as much emotional and financial weight as what to do with your home. Should you downsize, relocate, or stay put? On this episode of “Money Sense”, host Karen Ellenbecker sits down with Tammy Niemann, Wealth Advisor at Ellenbecker Investment Group, to unpack the real estate crossroads many retirees face. Tammy breaks down key considerations retirees should evaluate, including the pros and cons of downsizing, the financial and lifestyle impact of relocating, and when staying put may make the most sense. The conversation also covers topics such as reverse mortgages, housing market dynamics, and how real estate decisions can affect cash flow, taxes, and long-term planning. Listeners will gain clarity on how to align housing choices with personal values, lifestyle goals, and overall retirement plans, so decisions feel intentional, informed, and confident rather than overwhelming. #RetirementPlanning #RealEstateInRetirement #Downsizing #WealthPlanning #FinancialDecisions #MoneySensePodcast #EIGWealth ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com/ This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.