Big changes are coming to retirement planning—and they may hit you sooner than you think. In this week’s episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek break down new rules that eliminate a key 401(k) tax break for employees over age 50 making more than $150,000

Congress is now forcing these catch-up contributions into Roth accounts, removing the upfront tax deduction many workers rely on. While this may sound like bad news, Tony and Derek explain why having a Roth “bucket” might actually strengthen your long-term tax strategy.

You’ll learn:

• Why losing this deduction isn’t as catastrophic as it sounds
• How building three “buckets” (cash, tax-deferred, and tax-free) gives you flexibility in retirement
• What the new rules mean for Medicare surcharges and health care costs
• Why the government is really making this change—and how it could affect your future

They also share frustrations with the complexity of the Secure Act 2.0, including catch-up age rules, savers’ matches, and automatic enrollment requirements. Is it smart policy—or just another mess for workers and employers?

👉 If you’re over 50 and planning for retirement, this episode is a must-listen.

With all the market noise and new policy changes in 2025, many experts are calling this the smartest year to retire. In this week’s episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek break down why this moment could represent the perfect storm for retirement planning.

From locking in market gains after a massive run-up, to taking advantage of favorable tax brackets, to new rules for contributions and deductions—this episode uncovers the key opportunities retirees shouldn’t overlook. The guys also discuss healthcare and Medicare alignment, Social Security timing, and how lifestyle trends are reshaping what “retirement” looks like.

Whether you’re one year away or still in the planning phase, this conversation will help you think strategically about your retirement timing.

Stay tuned until the end for a quick bonus chat on the Ryder Cup and why the U.S. vs. Europe matchup is about more than just golf.

👉 Questions or topic suggestions? Reach out to the show—we love hearing from listeners who want to take control of their financial future.

Are you underspending in retirement? Many retirees save diligently for decades but struggle to flip the switch from saving to spending. In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek reveal why so many people spend less than they could — and how to enjoy retirement without fear of running out of money.

We’ll cover:

• Why retirees underspend even with strong financial plans
• How a Monte Carlo simulation shows what you can safely spend
• The difference between saving for legacy vs. enjoying life today
• Why the first 10 years of retirement are the most important
• Practical financial planning strategies to spend confidently while protecting your future

If you’ve ever wondered “How much can I safely spend in retirement?” or worried about outliving your savings, this episode will give you clarity and confidence. You worked hard for your wealth — now it’s time to enjoy it.

Remember the supply chain mess of 2020 or the sudden market drop of 2022? Those so-called “black swan” events hit hard and fast — and they’re not as rare as you think. In this week’s Capitalist Investor, the team dives into how unpredictable market shocks can devastate unprepared portfolios, why retirees are especially vulnerable, and the strategies you can use to safeguard your wealth. Don’t miss this candid conversation on protecting your retirement from the unexpected.

#Investing #Retirement #Wealth #Markets #BlackSwans #Economy #FinancePodcast #FinancialPlanning

Dividend stocks have long been considered a safe haven for investors seeking steady income. But in today’s market—where interest rates are rising and economic conditions are shifting—are dividend stocks really the reliable play they used to be? Or are they luring investors into a trap with unsustainable yields and hidden risks?

In this week’s episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony Zabiegala and Derek Gabrielsen break down the reality of dividend investing. They explore the history of dividends, the impact of inflation and interest rates, how to evaluate companies with strong vs. weak dividend policies, and what role dividends should play in a balanced portfolio.

Whether you’re chasing income, planning for retirement, or simply trying to protect your capital, this discussion will help you separate facts from myths and build a strategy that actually works.

📩 Questions or want help building a strategy? Email us at info@swpconnect.com
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On this episode of The Capitalist Investor, hosts Tony Zabiegala and Derek Gabrielsen unpack the rise of thematic investing. From meme stocks and AI ETFs to clean energy and crypto, investors are piling into trendy themes hoping to “get rich now.”

But is thematic investing a smart long-term strategy — or just a dangerous distraction? Tony and Derek explore the psychology driving this movement, the risks of chasing hype, how to evaluate ETFs, and why balanced portfolios still matter most.

👉 Got questions or want to discuss your investment strategy? Email us at info@swpconnect.com

On this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony Zabiegala is joined by Dave Abate to tackle the dangerous “one-size-fits-all” advice that floods financial media—from TV personalities to radio shows and podcasts.

They break down three of the most common myths they hear from clients:

• Annuities that promise 8–9% returns
• Fear-based Medicaid planning strategies that can destroy your retirement plan
• Hot tips about crypto, gold, and stocks that sound exciting—but rarely make sense in a real portfolio

Tony and Dave share the behind-the-scenes truth about how these recommendations are sold to the public and why you need a personalized strategy built around your specific goals—not media hype.

They also share their “apple pie” analogy that simplifies how real planning works.

🎯 Have a financial idea you’ve been pitched recently? Bring it to your advisor before you implement it.

📬 Questions or topic ideas? Email info@swpconnect.com

The 60/40 portfolio (60% stocks, 40% bonds) has been called everything from the cornerstone of retirement planning to a relic of the past. With the Fed signaling multiple rate cuts, could bonds finally regain their place in balanced portfolios?

In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony Zabiegala and Derek Gabrielsen discuss the history of the 60/40 model, why bonds collapsed in 2022, and whether alternatives like private credit, real estate, and annuities deserve a spot in your retirement plan. They also share practical strategies for creating a custom portfolio that aligns with your income needs and risk tolerance.