WELL BALANCED PODCAST
Subscribe to Vector’s Well Balanced podcast on Apple or Spotify for weekly market updates and real-world financial planning topics.
Well Balanced offers a passionate and entertaining look at money and investing for retirement.
Themes include Financial Planning, Investing, Market Perspective, and Wealth Management.
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Recent Podcast Posts
In this episode of Vector's Well Balanced podcast, Ezra Firkins and Joe Grochowski discuss the financial aspects of planning for weddings, particularly focusing on how parents can support their children while managing their own retirement plans.
Having 10 times your annual income saved by retirement is a financial planning rule-of-thumb—but what does that actually mean for your household? This discussion breaks down the numbers, strategies, and personal factors to help you understand what is involved. (podcast)
Our guest Emily Victory blends mathematics with artistic expression, drawing inspiration from patterns found in nature and architecture. In this podcast, she joins Vector’s Sharon Calhoun to explore curiosity, structure, and creativity in art and financial planning.
Moody’s has lowered the U.S. government’s credit rating from AAA to Aa1, citing persistent fiscal deficits and rising interest costs. Join us as Jason talks through the implications on Treasury interest rates. (podcast)
The latest GDP report shows a dip—but there’s more to the story. In this podcast, we unpack what’s behind the headlines, from an import spike to shifting market reactions. Explore why context matters more than first impressions.
In this update, Jason Ranallo explores how a steady, fact-aware framework can help investors navigate today’s turbulent market. From shifting trade policies to ongoing market turbulence, we talk through headlines and apply a disciplined, long-term perspective designed to keep you focused on what matters most: your financial goals.
In this episode, Jason unpacks the latest market data, the frameworks that will help you interpret it, and how we put it all into action. (podcast)
Consumer sentiment dropped again in March, hitting its lowest level since 2022. When people feel the worst about the economy, markets have often performed well in the 12 months that follow. (podcast)
Market pullbacks can feel unsettling. In this episode, Jason Ranallo discusses the latest market movements, puts them in historical context, and talks through why staying diversified and disciplined is key to long-term success.
Quite often, one spouse handles the finances in the household. In this episode, we discuss how a collaborative financial plan can provide clarity, confidence, and security for both partners—before life’s unexpected moments happen.
In this podcast, we talk about the fluid nature of tariffs and their potential implications for U.S. economic growth. Our take, these are shifts in consumer spending without creating new money. Also, the Super Bowl.
On any given day, the odds of the S&P 500 ending in the green are around 53 percent. Nearly the same odds as the flip of a coin. On the surface, participating in a daily venture where half the time you lose may seem counterintuitive. And yet.
It’s not just about today’s data—it’s about what investors expect tomorrow. Nvidia’s stock swings, the Federal Reserve’s rate decisions, and even TikTok-fueled tourism all have one thing in common: expectations shape economic reality. (podcast)
We discuss the importance of regular maintenance in both skiing and financial planning, emphasizing how proactive measures can prevent larger issues down the trail. Vector’s Charlie Gruys shares insights from his experience as a youth ski coach and wealth advisor. (Podcast)
Recording of our recent live stream with Jason Ranallo and Kara Murphy. They look back on 2024 then discuss the economic and market outlook for the upcoming year. And Barbie.
As you approach retirement and begin drawing from your portfolio, the sequence of returns—the order in which market gains or losses occur—takes on much greater importance. Poor returns experienced early in retirement can significantly impact the longevity of your savings. (podcast)
Vector Advisor Chris Wagner discusses key financial planning topics for the new year, including Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), tax-smart giving strategies like Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) and donor-advised funds. The new year marks a great reminder to review account beneficiaries and ensure your financial plan is on track. (podcast)
Kara shares her insights on consumer behavior, the labor market, and what’s driving today’s market trends. Kara is CIO of Kestra Investment Management, and this episode offers valuable takeaways for navigating the holiday season’s economic and financial dynamics. (podcast)
In this podcast, M&A attorney Matthew Hartranft shares practical strategies to prepare your business for a successful exit. From understanding your business’s true value to leveraging negotiations, discover actionable insights that maximize outcomes in today’s dynamic market.
Senior living is more than just a place—it’s a journey, and this episode explores how to navigate it with intention and empathy. In this podcast, creator, and executive producer of the groundbreaking PBS docuseries Inside Senior Living, Melissa Fritz, explores the important and often complex topic of senior living.
In this podcast, we dive into the numbers, address recent market movements, and explain why a long-term perspective remains essential. Multiple market all-time highs year to date. What now?
This episode is packed with valuable insights for investors. Vector’s Director of Portfolio Management provides an in-depth review of recent market performance and key economic trends.
Whether you're navigating a divorce or simply want to be financially prepared, this podcast episode is packed with actionable advice. From understanding the difference between marital and separate property to safeguarding your credit and updating your financial documents.
The Federal Reserve’s recent half-point rate cut aims to ease borrowing costs and stimulate the economy. We discuss the rate cut’s impacts on savers, borrowers, and investors in this Market Perspective podcast.
Scott Rose and Sharon Calhoun dive into divorce's emotional and financial challenges, offering insights on navigating this major life transition. From asset division to mediation strategies, listeners will learn about practical next steps to help plan for an independent financial future.
Listen in on this conversation to discover practical tips on planning for travel, the joys of slow travel, and the lasting impact of shared experiences. Vector client George talks with Jason and shares how his lifelong love of travel is shaping his retirement years.
Learn why owning assets that outpace inflation is a key tenet to navigating today's economic landscape. We explore recent trends in inflation, mortgage rates, and the stock market, offering insights on how to preserve your purchasing power.
View our blog and podcast archives for even more Vector insights.
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