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As we head into 2026, what lessons can we take from a year of major change?

In this episode of Not Just Numbers, Mike and Madison break down the biggest developments of 2025 and what they mean for planning ahead. The discussion focuses on the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBBA), including permanent tax law changes, higher standard deductions, new benefits for seniors, expanded SALT caps, and important incentives for business owners.

Mike also explains the major increase in federal estate and gift tax exemptions and why this may be a unique window for advanced estate planning. The episode wraps up with a look at market performance, economic trends, and key factors to watch in 2026—highlighting why proactive, coordinated planning is more important than ever.

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Most people think financial advice is something you do once — get a plan, make a few changes, and move on. In reality, that mindset can cost you tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars over time.

In this episode, Mike and Madison unpack why ongoing financial planning matters far more than people realize. They dive into the hidden tax mistakes even smart retirees make, how withdrawal and Social Security decisions can quietly drive lifetime taxes higher, and why tax planning is a year-by-year strategy — not a one-time fix.

The conversation then shifts to the financial planning industry itself, including the rise of private equity, the decline of true independence, and what Bob Veres calls “the great stall.” Mike shares firsthand insight into why so many advisors sell, what actually happens after a firm is acquired, and why Yardley Wealth Management chose internal succession over private equity.

If you’ve ever wondered what real financial planning looks like — or what’s happening behind the scenes in the advisory world — this episode is for you.

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In this episode of Not Just Numbers, Mike and Madison sit down to unpack the world of stock market pundits, the personalities who make sweeping predictions that often grab headlines but rarely stand the test of time. From Jospeh Granville’s market-moving calls to Michael Burry’s dramatic warnings, Madison and Mike explore why bold voices attract so much attention, why even the most famous forecasters struggle to repeat their “big win,” and how relying on these predictions can lead investors astray. Mike breaks down the psychology behind overconfident gurus, the dangers of reacting emotionally to extreme forecasts, and why long-term fundamentals consistently outperform dramatic market timing attempts. Whether you’ve ever wondered if you should “sell everything” after a scary headline, or why influencers with millions of views aren’t necessarily credible, this episode offers a grounded, insightful look at what really matters for building lasting wealth: discipline, diversification, and sticking to a plan.

Link to Wall Street Journal Article: https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/stock-market-today-dow-sp500-nasdaq-tariff-deadline-08-07-2025/card/predicting-market-crashes-for-fun-and-profit-uKs2Dee6njQx9hbj5PkM?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=ASWzDAjXc9QSZVwwBdxh1CJb3maJSeTBH7An4Abo-iMs55L_zD8wGvP7j23j&gaa_ts=68a33fcb&gaa_sig=bkwa-pgMaml3j7i_yFSL8GixDTX_8IAdnfvX4iT8m_P-NyMqsQKZNaBOoSvRu3YE-z7Bu54Q1bvgG4pRAsGZ8w%3D%3D

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In this episode of Not Just Numbers, Mike and Madison unpack the major retirement plan updates arriving in 2026. They break down new 401(k) contribution limits, expanded catch-up opportunities, and the significant shift to Roth-only catch-up contributions for higher earners. They explain who will be most affected, how these changes could impact taxes and take-home pay, and what steps savers can take now to prepare. Whether you’re approaching retirement, maximizing savings in your peak earning years, or simply trying to stay ahead of policy changes, this conversation helps you make sense of what’s coming and how to navigate it with confidence.

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As the year draws to a close, charitable giving surges — and with thoughtful planning, those gifts can become even more meaningful. In this episode of Not Just Numbers, Mike and Madison explore how to make your generosity truly count, both for the causes you care about and for your long-term financial plan. They discuss why December is such a powerful month for charitable contributions, the emotional and cultural forces behind year-end generosity, and how new tax laws taking effect in 2026 may influence how donors approach giving in the years ahead. Whether you’re giving modestly or making substantial contributions, this episode offers guidance on how to plan ahead, avoid year-end pitfalls, and ensure your generosity supports both the missions you love and your financial wellbeing. Then, Mike and Maddie sit down with Christian LeFer, founder and CEO of Instant Nonprofit, who has helped more than 5,000 people launch IRS-approved 501(c)(3) organizations. Christian shares how growing up in a nonprofit-driven family shaped his belief in “wealth with purpose,” and how his own frustrating experience trying to start a nonprofit led him to build a streamlined, done-for-you system that removes the bureaucracy and lets people focus on impact. Christian explains why a 501(c)(3) can be a powerful tool for tax strategy, legacy planning, and aligning wealth with personal values, often accessible to everyday families, not just the ultra-wealthy. He also breaks down how to know whether forming your own foundation or nonprofit is the right choice and why imperfect action is the key to creating meaningful change. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn a personal mission into a real vehicle for impact or build a legacy that lasts, this conversation offers clear guidance and inspiration. Christian also shares a free starter kit for listeners at instantnonprofit.com/podcast.

Instant Nonprofit links:

Instant Nonprofit Startup Kit

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InstantNonprofit

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/instantnonprofit/posts/?feedView=all&viewAsMember=true

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InstantNonprofitUSA

Connect with Christian LeFer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianlefer/

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Caring for aging parents is one of the most emotional, and financially complex, challenges many families will face. In this episode of Not Just Numbers, Mike and Madison dive into the realities of caregiving, what it looks like, why it’s becoming more common, and how families can prepare before it becomes a crisis. They discuss the growing prevalence of caregiving in America, the emotional and physical toll it can take, and the significant financial strain that often follows. From burnout and guilt to long-term care costs and Medicare misconceptions, Mike and Madison explore both the human and financial sides of this responsibility. Whether you’re already providing care or preparing for the future, this episode offers compassionate guidance and actionable steps to help you protect both your parents’ wellbeing and your own financial security. Later in the episode, Mike and Madison sit down with Jimmy Rios, founder of Rios Business Advisors and Rios Business Funding. With more than 20 years of experience in financial services, Jimmy has dedicated his career to helping entrepreneurs understand and take control of their business finances. From practical steps for managing debt and improving credit to real-world examples of clients transforming their businesses, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to grow, fund, or eventually sell their business the right way.

Connect with Jimmy Rios

Rios Business Funding website: https://riosbusinessfunding.com/

Rios Business Funding YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RiosBusinessFunding

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rios-business-advisors/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Riosbusinessfunding/

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In this episode of Not Just Numbers, Mike and Madison break down a costly estate planning mistake that led one family to pay $1.5 million in unnecessary taxes. Using a recent Wall Street Journal case as an example, they explain how filing errors and missed portability elections can erase major tax benefits for heirs. Tune in to learn how to avoid these common estate tax pitfalls, why filing even when no taxes are due matters, and how proper planning can protect your family’s wealth for generations. Later in the episode, Mike and Maddie sit down with Shellee Howard, founder of College Ready, Certified Educational Consultant, and two-time bestselling author. Shellee shares how she guided her own four children, one a Harvard graduate, to graduate debt-free, and how she now helps families around the world navigate the complex world of college admissions and financial aid. Whether your child is in middle school, high school, or about to send off applications, this episode will help you make smarter, more confident college decisions.

Wall Street Journal article: https://www.wsj.com/personal-finance/taxes/estate-taxes-portability-planning-mistakes-26111632?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=ASWzDAh4ABe7RUwCefArlc4WRH-DaE3FHzfoFogHGCAB4fVO7GDJQZ4eItEw&gaa_ts=68a48807&gaa_sig=taVvcCuHsvFdarXJVp5Ofj9x7e6lcfcWUAJDzPHlrN5Kg2UHNgbvaR2C1_GA22bmORuHGPUOsir_XPyoC_aL0g%3D%3D

Connect with Shellee Howard

30-minute discovery call with Shellee Collegereadyplan.info

Empowereducation.world

The College Admissions Plan Simplified by Shellee Howard

How to Send Your Student to College Without Losing Your Mind or Your Money By Shellee Howard

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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, Mike and Madison dive into one of the most common financial questions: Should I pay off my mortgage early? They break down the advantages and disadvantages of paying down your mortgage ahead of schedule. From interest savings and peace of mind to opportunity costs and tax considerations, this conversation will help you weigh whether being mortgage-free is the right financial move for you. Later in the episode, Mike and Maddie sit down with Yvonne, Executive Director of The Crossings Animal Society, a non-profit, no-kill animal welfare organization serving Bucks and Mercer Counties since 2009. Yvonne shares her personal journey into animal advocacy, the inspiring mission behind The Crossings Animal Society, and how programs like Animal Help and Adoption Network, the Boris & Natasha’s Fund, and their Pet Rescue, Surrender & Adoption program are transforming the lives of pets and families alike. Tune in to learn how The Crossings Animal Society is building a community of compassion, and how you can make a difference, too.

Connect with The Crossings Animal Society

Phone number: (215) 321-4673

Email: info@CrossingsAnimalSociety.org

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