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

In this episode, Heather Townsend and Dave Grant discuss the upcoming changes to 401k plans in 2026, focusing on the implications for individuals over 50 and the new rules regarding catch-up contributions. They explore the impact of these changes on retirement planning, tax strategies, and the importance of adapting to new regulations.

RMDs are complicated. Heather and Dave discuss the complexities of RMDs from retirement accounts, including the rules surrounding inherited IRAs. They break down the nuances of RMDs, the implications of tax laws, and strategies for effective management to avoid unnecessary tax burdens. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding RMDs for both personal retirement planning and for those inheriting retirement accounts, highlighting the need for proactive tax planning and the potential pitfalls of mismanagement.

Managing uneven cash flow is complex. In this episode, Dave and Heather discuss the complexities, particularly for business owners and W-2 employees. They emphasize the importance of knowing living expenses, setting financial goals, and having a plan for unexpected income. The conversation also touches on strategies for creating a financial runway, the significance of separating business and personal finances, and the need for continuous financial education. The hosts share insights on how to achieve financial stability and success through effective cash flow management.

Dave and Heather discuss the critical role of cash in retirement planning, emphasizing the balance between cash reserves and investments. They explore how much cash is necessary for different life stages, the importance of emergency funds, and strategies for managing cash effectively. The conversation also touches on the implications of inflation on cash holdings and the necessity of investing to maintain wealth. Listener questions provide further insights into practical cash management strategies.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are worth obsessing over! Dave and Heather discuss their benefits, eligibility, contribution limits, and unique rules. They share personal anecdotes and practical advice on how to maximize the advantages of HSAs, especially in relation to tax savings and medical expenses. The conversation also touches on the implications of HSAs after age 65, employer contributions, and estate planning considerations.