Money Matters by Allworth Financial

Can you retire early with private equity, direct indexing, and a mega backdoor Roth? In this episode of Money Matters, Scott and Pat help one investor weigh big decisions—from helping adult children buy homes to managing portfolio risk—before an aggressive retirement. Then, they follow up with a high-income saver who put their "mega backdoor" advice into action and is now looking at direct indexing for better tax efficiency. From choosing the right advisor to making smarter investment moves, early retirement planning means getting the details right. Because a secure retirement isn’t just about how much you’ve saved—it’s what you do next. Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

How do you protect a lifetime of savings when tax laws and changing life goals shift your priorities? In this episode of Money Matters, Scott and Pat explore wealth preservation, from managing concentrated stock positions and real estate decisions to sophisticated tax planning. In this episode: The $5.6M Property Test: Scott and Pat analyze a caller’s plan to carry three homes in retirement. They discuss “carry risk” and why even a $5.6 million net worth doesn’t automatically justify expanding a real estate portfolio. Savings Trade-Offs at 52: A caller asks how to balance college costs for two children with the long-term goal of maximizing 401(k) contributions and Roth IRA savings. Managing Concentrated Stock: Tom Kaiser, Allworth’s Director of Equity and Option Management, explains how options strategies such as collars can help protect concentrated positions without immediately selling appreciated stock and realizing capital gains. Step-Up in Basis: Scott and Pat explain how this powerful tax provision can reduce or eliminate unrealized capital gains on inherited assets—and why it can play an important role in wealth preservation and estate planning. For investors who have accumulated significant assets, wealth preservation isn’t simply about avoiding risk. It’s about understanding the trade-offs between taxes, spending, investments, and the legacy you ultimately want to leave. Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

Are you prepared for the complexities of a high-value retirement? In this episode of Allworth’s Money Matters, Scott and Pat break down real-world case studies for a $3M+ retirement, specifically focusing on the math behind long-term care, the tax implications of early inheritances, and a powerful framework for tax efficiency known as the "3 C's." In this episode, Scott and Pat discuss: The Long-Term Care Dilemma: They analyze a $3.7M case study where the caller is retiring abroad. Does she actually need long-term care insurance, or can she "self-insure"? Scott and Pat explain the "elimination period" strategy that could save thousands in premiums. Managing Early Inheritances: Using a $3.3M case study, Scott and Pat explore the pros and cons of buying a home for your children. They discuss how to manage early inheritances without creating family "real estate wars" or triggering unnecessary IRA taxes. The "3 C's" Strategy: Allworth partner advisor Ben Abraham joins the show to reveal a strategy for maximizing tax efficiency by balancing stock concentration and charitable giving to fuel massive Roth Conversions. Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

In an economy where AI is reshaping the landscape, how should a sophisticated investor respond? In this episode of Money Matters, Scott and Pat are joined by Dr. Apollo Lupescu from Dimensional Fund Advisors to discuss the "AI Ownership Machine" and how to manage portfolio concentration. Plus, Scott and Pat answer a caller’s questions on maximizing RSUs and utilizing advanced tax-saving vehicles. What You’ll Learn: The "Ownership Machine" vs. Gambling: Learn why shifting your mindset from "betting" on stocks to becoming a part-owner of a business is the key to long-term rational decision-making. AI and Historical Cycles: Understand how the AI revolution compares to the internet and electricity, and why it is more effective to own the entire "field of horses" rather than trying to pick a single winner. Navigating Market Highs: Discover why "time in the market" beats "timing the market," and how systematic rebalancing can help you manage anxiety and risk when the market hits all-time highs. Advanced Tax Optimization: A deep dive into Direct Indexing to harvest tax losses and using Mega Backdoor Roth conversions to maximize tax-free growth for high-income earners. Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

In this episode of Allworth’s Money Matters, Scott and Pat take a deep dive into two real-world case studies that highlight the critical difference between being sold a product and receiving fiduciary advice. First, they talk with a caller managing a $4.5 million estate who has been pitched a complex whole-life insurance strategy. Then, they address a $1.4 million retirement dilemma involving inherited assets and the "liquidity gap." What you’ll learn in this episode: The Whole Life Red Flag: Why insurance "leverage" strategies often benefit the advisor more than the client. Inherited IRA Mastery: How to manage large inherited accounts without triggering unnecessary taxes or penalties. The Truth About Bonds: Why your current bond allocation might be creating a "liquidity trap" for your early retirement. Fiduciary vs. Commission: How to tell if your advisor is building a plan or just making a sale. Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

What does it take to manage a multi-million dollar portfolio once you’ve stopped adding to it? In this episode of Money Matters, Scott and Pat dive into the complexities of high-net-worth retirement, focusing on the critical shift from "saving" to "strategic spending." Through real-world case studies, they explore why "tax location" is often more important than "tax allocation," particularly when it comes to bonds and individual stocks. They also tackle the psychological side of wealth—learning how to upgrade your standard of living and find joy in charitable giving through "warm hand" estate planning. In this episode, they discuss: -Markets & AI: The impact of economic warfare and whether AI productivity gains are sustainable. -Prediction Markets: Why you should be wary of platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi. -Portfolio Cleanup: Why "over-diversifying" into 30+ funds can be a retirement trap. -Strategic Giving: Using the "warm hand" approach to fund legacies and charitable causes today. -Roth Conversions: Navigating tax efficiency for portfolios in the $2M–$10M+ range. Featured Case Study: A deep dive into bond location and estate planning for a multi-million dollar estate. Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

How do you turn a "jackpot moment" into a lasting family legacy? In this episode of Allworth’s Money Matters, Scott is joined by partner advisor Richard Del Monte (while Pat is on vacation) to tackle the complexities of wealth transitions and family gifting. Through a $2.1 million case study, the team discusses how to support adult children through "giving while living" without creating family conflict. Then, Simone Devenny, Allworth’s Head of Private Wealth Strategies, joins to share a masterclass in succession planning for business owners. Using a multi-million dollar business exit as a guide, she breaks down the financial planning techniques needed to minimize taxes and protect your legacy during a major liquidity event. Highlights include: The Gifting Dilemma: Managing "warm hearts vs. cold hands" in a $2.1M portfolio. The Business Exit: Estate strategies for multi-million dollar sales. Family Transparency: How to mentor the next generation on wealth. Tax Strategy: Sophisticated ways to protect your business proceeds. Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

While Pat is on vacation, Scott and partner advisor Richard Del Monte break down two high-stakes financial scenarios that highlight the difference between "good on paper" and "good in practice." Through two detailed caller case studies, they explore: Case Study 1: The $450k New Doctor. After 15 years of medical training, a 32-year-old is finally hitting a massive salary. But with multiple retirement options like 403(b)s and non-governmental 457 plans, her father is worried about "tying her hands" too early. Scott and Richard explain why some retirement plans are actually "traps" for young high-earners and how to use the "mega backdoor" Roth to maximize flexibility. Case Study 2: The $1.1M Retirement Reality Check. A couple plans to retire next year with just over $1 million, but they’re facing $125k in immediate "one-time" expenses for a wedding and new vehicles. The duo discusses the "4% Rule," the danger of "confusing a bull market with brilliance," and why a 19% return today doesn't guarantee a stress-free tomorrow. The Philosophy of Work: Richard Del Monte shares his personal "25-year plan" at age 70 and discusses why the most successful people often choose engagement over a traditional retirement. Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

In this episode of Money Matters, Scott and Pat dive into a $5M client case study on the hidden dangers of stock concentration and explain why a $1.5M Roth conversion might be your smartest tax move. They also tackle direct indexing and welcome Allworth partner advisor Victoria Bogner to share the story of "Jim and Karen." You’ll hear how this retired couple unknowingly had 35% of their $5 million portfolio tied up in just eight stocks—and how a shift in "asset location" saved them six figures in projected taxes. Key Topics Included: -Roth Conversion Strategies: Managing large pre-tax balances at age 65. -Direct Indexing vs. Cash: Understanding the risks and tax-loss harvesting. -The "Asset Location" Secret: Why the right account type matters for your bottom line. -The Saver’s Mindset: Transitioning from building wealth to enjoying it. Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

Can you support your adult children without derailing your retirement? In this episode of Money Matters, Scott and Pat dive into the financial realities of a caller with a nearly $10M net worth who is spending $75,000 a year to support his adult daughter. They break down the math on his retirement timeline and uncover a common "tax efficiency" mistake that could be costing him significant returns. Also in this episode: The "Shell Game" of State Budgets: How budget constraints in states like California could impact your long-term security. Roth Conversions & Moving States: Why a move from California to Nevada completely changes the math on Roth conversions and RMD management. The "Payroll" Pitfall: The hidden risks of putting family members on your business payroll for tax benefits. Investing "Backwards": Why your 401(k) and brokerage account allocations might be working against each other. Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

Is the current AI boom a repeat of 1999? In this episode of Money Matters, Scott and Pat dive into the "irrational exuberance" surrounding tech IPOs and the hidden dangers of concentration risk in a high-net-worth portfolio. Plus, they break down real-world case studies on tax efficiency and retirement income. What You’ll Learn: The AI "Froth" Factor: Why 97x revenue valuations for new IPOs are a warning sign for diversified investors and how to manage concentration risk in big tech. The Roth Conversion Reality Check: A $1.1M case study on why "pre-paying" taxes through a Roth conversion isn't always the right move for your legacy. The Annuity Trap: How to spot high-commission products that are often sold as "safety" but may actually hinder your retirement flexibility. Self-Insuring Long-Term Care: Strategic planning for healthcare costs when you have the assets to skip traditional insurance. Whether you are navigating market volatility or fine-tuning your estate plan, Scott and Pat provide the fiduciary perspective you need to protect your wealth. Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

When does a Roth Conversion make sense—and when could it be a costly mistake? In this episode of Money Matters, Scott and Pat tackle one of the most common retirement planning questions: whether a Roth Conversion is the right move for your financial future. They break down a real-life caller’s situation involving IRAs, pensions, charitable giving, required minimum distributions (RMDs), and the tax implications of converting retirement assets. The show also features an emotional conversation with Laura, a member of the “sandwich generation” who is balancing retirement planning while supporting aging parents and a special-needs child. Scott and Pat discuss pension decisions, reverse mortgages, life insurance needs, and how to navigate competing financial priorities without sacrificing long-term security. Plus, they explore tax-efficient investing strategies, asset location, charitable giving through donor-advised funds, and why taxes may be one of the biggest threats to your retirement wealth. If you've ever wondered whether a Roth Conversion belongs in your retirement plan, this episode is packed with practical insights. What You’ll Learn: -Roth Conversions & Retirement Tax Planning -Tax-Efficient Investing Strategies -Retirement Planning for the Sandwich Generation -Reverse Mortgages & Aging Parent Care -Charitable Giving, RMDs & Retirement Income Planning Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

How do you make smart financial decisions after you've already built significant wealth? In this week's episode of Allworth's Money Matters, Scott and Pat help a retired couple with an $11 million portfolio evaluate Roth conversions, estate planning, charitable giving, and strategies to improve tax efficiency. Then they speak with a 52-year-old listener navigating uncertainty in the alcohol industry while balancing retirement savings, college expenses, and cash reserves. Should he use taxable assets to maximize his 401(k) contributions? Scott and Pat weigh in. The episode also features Allworth advisor Laurie Ingwersen, who explains how investors with concentrated stock positions can reduce risk while improving tax efficiency. Laurie shares a real-world case study of a client whose portfolio was 70% invested in a single stock and the strategies used to diversify, manage taxes, and preserve long-term wealth. What You’ll Learn: -Whether Roth conversions still make sense for high-net-worth retirees -How to improve tax efficiency through smarter asset location and portfolio design -When it makes sense to use taxable assets to maximize retirement savings -Strategies for reducing risk in concentrated stock positions -How to balance wealth preservation, charitable giving, and legacy planning Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

After decades of saving and investing, how do you know when it’s okay to truly enjoy your money? In this episode of Money Matters, Scott and Pat help a couple with nearly $8 million determine how much home they can comfortably afford after relocating to Florida, while another listener with more than $12 million asks whether Roth conversions still make sense given today’s tax rules and retirement tax planning environment. They discuss retirement tax planning strategies, the dangers of chasing “popular” AI stocks, and how AI-powered scams are targeting investors and older Americans. What You’ll Learn: -When Roth conversions can help lower future taxes -How much house people can realistically afford -Better retirement tax planning strategies -How to invest more tax efficiently -Warning signs of today’s most common financial scams Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

Why do so many successful investors struggle to actually enjoy the wealth they’ve built? In this Memorial Day weekend episode of Allworth’s Money Matters, Scott and Pat talk with UCLA professor and behavioral expert Hal Hershfield and explore the emotional side of money, retirement, and investing. From fear of running out of money to recency bias and loss aversion, this episode dives deep into the hidden psychological forces that shape financial decisions — even for millionaires. If you’ve ever wondered why investors panic during market drops, hesitate to spend in retirement, or obsess over past financial mistakes, this conversation about investing will completely change how you think about money. Scott, Pat, and Hal unpack why wealthy retirees often struggle to spend confidently, how emotions influence investing decisions, and why understanding investor psychology may be just as important as understanding the stock market itself. They also discuss longevity insurance, risk tolerance, mental accounting, and how advisors can help clients align money with purpose and happiness. Whether you're approaching retirement or simply want to become a smarter long-term investor, this episode offers powerful insights into the psychology behind successful investing and financial decision-making. What You’ll Learn: -Why many wealthy retirees are afraid to spend money -How loss aversion impacts investing decisions -The dangers of recency bias in the stock market -Why financial regrets stick with us longer than successes -How psychology shapes investing behavior -The emotional side of risk tolerance and market volatility -How “mental accounting” affects spending habits -Why longevity insurance hasn’t caught on with investors -How financial advisors help clients align money with life goals Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

When it comes to investing, the most important decisions aren’t made in theory—they happen in real life. In this episode of Allworth’s Money Matters, Scott and Pat answer real listener calls and break down how smart investing decisions actually play out. Martha, a 79-year-old retiree with $4–5 million, considers a complex investing strategy involving direct indexing to generate tax losses and improve tax efficient investing strategies. But does this level of complexity actually benefit her portfolio—or just add unnecessary risk? Then Dennis, age 51, with nearly $2.3 million saved and major expenses ahead, faces key investing decisions around portfolio allocation, college funding, and building a sustainable retirement income plan. Through these real-world financial questions, Scott and Pat show that successful investing isn’t about chasing complexity—it’s about simplifying your strategy, aligning with your goals, and making confident decisions over time. What You’ll Learn: -When complex investing strategies like direct indexing are actually worth it -How to approach tax efficient investing strategies without unnecessary risk -Smart ways to think about portfolio allocation as you near retirement -How to build reliable retirement income from your investments -How to evaluate real-world financial questions with confidence -Why simpler investing strategies often lead to better long-term results Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

A good financial plan isn’t just about retirement—it’s about how all the pieces of your financial life fit together. In this episode of Money Matters, Scott and Pat talk with a caller who already has about $2 million and expects a much larger inheritance—but still struggles to spend any of it. They walk through why that happens and how a financial plan can help ease into actually using the money. They also take a call from a high-income couple earning around $600,000 a year. Even with strong savings, there are still areas being overlooked, so Scott and Pat explain what a complete financial plan should cover—from retirement to insurance to college planning—and where people often miss. It’s a reminder that a financial plan isn’t just about how much you have—it’s how everything fits together. What You’ll Learn: -Why having millions doesn’t always make spending easier -How to start using wealth without feeling uncomfortable -What high-income families often overlook -How to think about retirement when income is strong -What a real financial plan actually ties together Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

If you’ve built significant wealth, knowing how to reduce taxes in retirement can have a major impact on what you keep—and what your kids ultimately receive. In this episode, Scott and Pat walk through two real-life situations: one caller facing large tax exposure from millions in pre-tax accounts, and another trying to make sure their children don’t quickly spend an inheritance. Along the way, they also touch on how areas like private credit and private equity are evolving—and what that means for investors thinking about risk, transparency, and long-term planning. If your goal is to reduce taxes in retirement while being more intentional about your legacy, this episode gives you a clear and practical framework. What You’ll Learn: -How to reduce taxes in retirement with large pre-tax accounts -When Roth conversions work—and when they don’t -Why RMDs can create long-term tax challenges -How to structure a trust to protect your kids’ inheritance -The role of trustees and distribution strategies Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

This episode of Money Matters explores advanced tax strategies that go beyond traditional investing to help high earners and retirees maximize efficiency, reduce taxes, and create smarter, more tax-efficient income streams. With Pat out this week, Scott and Allworth advisor Mark Shone break down how strategies like direct indexing, long/short investing, and tax-loss harvesting can unlock new opportunities—especially for those with larger, more complex portfolios. Plus, Scott and Allworth’s Head of Private Wealth Strategies, Simone Devenny, dive into trusts, from simple living trusts to more sophisticated estate planning tools. What You’ll Learn: -How direct indexing works—and when it can outperform traditional index funds -Strategies to generate tax losses and offset future gains -Smart ways to manage concentrated stock positions -How options strategies can help increase portfolio income -The key differences between revocable and irrevocable trusts (and when to use them) Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .

How do you manage a concentrated stock position without getting crushed by taxes? In this episode of Money Matters, Scott is joined by Allworth advisor Mark Shone, who steps in while Pat is away to break down smart, tax-efficient strategies for handling highly appreciated stock positions. They use a real-life case of a recent retiree with nearly $2 million in Apple stock to explore how to reduce risk, diversify, and balance income and legacy goals. Plus, they touch on private credit and real estate trends shaping today’s investment landscape. What You’ll Learn: -How to reduce risk in a concentrated stock position- -Strategies to diversify without triggering large capital gains -Tax-efficient ways to manage highly appreciated stock -How to balance income needs with long-term legacy goals Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here . You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com . Download and rate our podcast here .