In this episode of More for Your Money, John Berkley and Kit Carson explore the "rest of the story" regarding Roth IRA conversions. Berkley outlines the "whys" of converting, such as legacy planning for adult children or protecting high-value estates, alongside "why-nots" like potential IRMAA increases or Social Security taxation. A major highlight is the new Wisconsin tax exemption, allowing residents 67 and older to exclude up to $24,000 of retirement income per person from state taxes. The duo emphasizes integrating these variables with investment strategies, reminding listeners that retirement planning requires thorough "homework" and professional consultation.

The Uncommon Cents Investing Committee explores the market’s transition from tech leaders to small caps and value stocks. The team critiques the "Greenspan Put" and historical market manipulations, warning that unsustainable global debt may soon trigger significant consequences. They analyze Japan’s bond market disruptions and the potential impact on the global carry trade. A deep dive into gold highlights its role in preserving purchasing power against the "weaponization of the dollar". Ultimately, the hosts stress that a disciplined strategy is vital for navigating market resets.

Special Guests: Greg Snyder and Todd Berkley.

In this episode of More for Your Money, John Berkley and Sheena Hanson discuss the "uncommon cents" approach to retirement. They contrast the complex investment "bucket theory" with their simplified single-portfolio strategy. The hosts also critique Department of Labor fiduciary regulations, noting how administrative rules can increase consumer costs. Real-world highlights include resolving poorly documented estates and navigating 64% premium hikes in long-term care insurance. By prioritizing listening over numbers, the team demonstrates how local, independent advisors help Rock County retirees manage complex financial transitions with confidence.

John Berkley discusses the strong 2026 market kickoff, highlighting significant gains in the Dow and Russell 2000 as the market broadens beyond the "Magnificent 7". Special guest Patrick Smith, owner of Visiting Angels, examines the growing preference for non-medical home care as a way to age at home. The episode provides a deep dive into long-term care insurance, covering the impact of the 1996 HIPAA Act, strategies for activating benefits, and navigating elimination periods to ensure policies function as assets rather than liabilities.

Special Guest: Patrick Smith.

In this episode of More for Your Money, John Berkley and the investment committee review 2025, noting S&P 500 total returns reached 17.8% and gold surged 64%. Transitioning into 2026, the team shares "guesses" for the year; Greg targets an S&P of 6,300, while Todd forecasts a 50% market decline and $6,000 gold. The discussion explores dollar devaluation, gold’s role as an inflation "measuring stick," and weighting portfolios toward energy and non-US stocks. Grounded in math and history, the team prepares listeners for a volatile year.

Special Guests: Greg Snyder and Todd Berkley.

In this episode of "More for Your Money," host John Berkley discusses navigating a market entering its third consecutive year of double-digit returns. Acting as an "idea factory," Berkley explores the "nuts and bolts" of complex financial products, emphasizing the necessity of auditing annuity contracts for hidden fees and missing beneficiaries. He details specialized tax strategies, including Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA) and managing distributions within the 12% marginal tax bracket to capitalize on 0% federal capital gains. Citing Dalbar research, Berkeley warns against emotional investing, urging listeners to plan for a retirement that feels like a "perpetual snow day".

Join host John Berkley for a weekly market recap before diving into a history lesson on financial legends from the 1920s and 30s. The episode explores the lives of William Durant and Jesse Livermore, analyzing the risks of high-leverage margin debt and the infamous "Rascub’s Folly". Berkeley clarifies the critical difference between a market crash and a depression, citing the historical impact of monetary policy. By sharing timeless wisdom from Phil Karee and Lucian Hooper, the show emphasizes that patience and a long-term perspective are the true keys to success. Ultimately, because human nature remains constant, Wall Street never truly changes.

This episode features the Investment Committee discussing the mixed market data and the potential rotation from growth stocks (like the MAG 7) to value stocks and the broader market (Russell 2000). The hosts explore current market valuations, noting the stock market is expensive with double-digit returns baked into current prices. A major theme is the hosts' commitment to long-term value investing, emphasizing the discipline to focus on data and math over the distracting "soap opera" narrative surrounding the Federal Reserve, despite recent dovish statements and changes in the federal funds rate. They also examine gold as a way to preserve long-term purchasing power in an inflationary environment, arguing it reflects the dollar's decline rather than just market movement. The conversation concludes by referencing the emotional lessons and high margin debt levels noted in the historical book 1929.

Special Guests: Greg Snyder and Todd Berkley.