High earner? 2026 could quietly change how much you keep.

In this episode, Dave Grant and Heather Townsend break down the tax playbook for 2026. What you'll learn:

• Why “it’s not how much you make, it’s what you do with it” (and why high earners still feel broke)

• The core foundation: cash flow is the engine of wealth, not returns

• How to create intentional surplus without killing your lifestyle

• 2026 planning priorities (accounts, savings targets, and timing decisions)

• How to think about income spikes, bonuses, and planning ahead

• The money conversation most couples avoid (and why it matters)

• The single most important step: know your numbers, know your goals, then execute

Chapters:

00:00 Setting up 2026 for high earners

00:55 Foundation: it’s not how much you make

01:19 Cash flow is the engine of wealth

03:14 Emergency fund + lifestyle design

04:31 2026 contribution limit refresh

05:58 Pre-tax vs Roth decision framework

08:14 2026 tax changes to watch

10:39 Housing decisions and cash flow reality check

14:10 Bonuses, vesting, and irregular income planning

23:26 Know your savings targets

23:59 Money conversations with your spouse

26:21 Q&A

35:15 Disclaimer

I’m here to make wealth planning and retirement simple, clear, and approachable. No jargon, no fluff... just real talk about what matters most to your financial future.

On this channel, we cover everything from Social Security and tax strategies to IRAs, 401(k)s, job changes, inheritance, and so much more. My goal is to help you feel confident about your retirement plan, so you not only have enough, but you're also prepared for the risks that could affect your money along the way.

Let’s take the mystery out of retirement and build a plan you can feel good about.

For more about Retirement Matters, or to contact us, visit our website:

https://www.retirementmatters.co/

Remodeling your home is going to take money. There are several options and we're discussing them today. We explore the benefits and drawbacks of using cash, HELOCs, margin loans, and credit cards, emphasizing the importance of planning and understanding personal debt sensitivity. The conversation also touches on family loans and the psychological aspects of managing debt, providing listeners with practical insights and personal experiences related to home financing.00:00:00 Introduction to Home Remodel Financing Options00:00:46 When to Pay Cash for Home Projects00:04:01 Understanding HELOCs - Benefits and Mechanics00:07:00 HELOC Drawbacks and Considerations00:09:40 Margin Loans Against Investments00:12:27 Cash-Out Refinancing and Other Financing Options00:17:17 Special Considerations for Retirees00:19:12 Practical Advice and Rules of Thumb00:25:17 Announcement and Personal Highlights

Episode 50 - Sell your business for more - Heather Townsend and Dave Grant share the secrets and discuss the intricacies of business transition and exit planning. They explore the importance of team dynamics, the emotional aspects of selling a business, and the various strategies for maximizing business value. The conversation delves into the four C's of business valuation, tax strategies for business sales, and the challenges of family business transitions. Real-life examples illustrate the impact of proper planning and the necessity of having a clear exit strategy. The episode emphasizes the need for business owners to prepare for transitions at all times and to align their personal and financial goals with their business objectives.00:00:00 Introduction to Business Exit Planning00:01:04 The Wealth Trapped in Businesses and Why Exits Fail00:04:02 Business Dependency and Valuation Challenges00:06:21 The Four C's Framework for Increasing Business Value00:08:16 Industry Multiples and the Value Gap00:12:13 Derisking Your Business Before Sale00:15:13 Growth Strategies and Strategic Acquisitions00:17:14 The Long Timeline and Complexity of Business Sales00:17:49 Seller's Remorse and Identity After the Sale00:18:48 Planning for Life After Business and Family Transitions00:23:22 Q&A - Calculating Business Worth Without a Full Valuation00:24:25 Q&A - Minimizing Taxes and Managing Sale Proceeds00:26:53 Personal Highlights - School Tours and Taking Time Off00:30:40 Closing Remarks and Disclaimers