Michael and Brady dive headfirst into one of the most debated financial decisions of our time: renting vs. buying. With candid personal stories, professional insight, and a side-by-side breakdown of the emotional and mathematical realities, they unpack what truly makes sense for young professionals, growing families, and everyone caught in the housing dilemma. Whether you're saving for your first down payment or wondering if you missed the boat, this episode delivers clarity, strategy, and perspective you won’t want to miss.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Michael’s first home purchase story

(05:00) - Emotional and financial motivations for buying

(07:00) - Turning a home into an income-generating asset

(09:00) - Hidden costs and discomfort of first-year ownership

(13:00) - Brady’s experience and reasons for renting

(18:00) - Challenges of saving while renting

(22:00) - Market conditions, timing, and lifestyle alignment

(26:00) - Charlotte housing market appreciation stats

(31:00) - Rent vs. buy cost analysis setup

(39:00) - Comparing net worth: equity vs. liquidity

(44:00) - What renters must do to keep pace financially

(48:00) - Roommate strategy to reduce mortgage burden

(51:00) - Generational differences in housing mindset

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, The Dave Ramsey Show, BiggerPockets Podcast, The Motley Fool Money Show, We Study Billionaires, ChooseFI, Afford Anything, Renting vs Buying a Home, Homeownership Financial Planning, Real Estate Investment Strategy, First-Time Home Buyer Advice, Building Wealth Through Real Estate

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

Rent vs. Buy Calculator: https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/rent-vs-buy-calculator

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. All investments and investment strategies contain risk and may lose value.

Michael Acosta is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 6115 PARK SOUTH...

Michael and Brady confront a challenge many retirees face but few openly talk about: when peace of mind outweighs the numbers on a spreadsheet. Is your aging car a financial liability or an emotional burden? Should you stretch your budget for a reliable vehicle, even if the math says “wait”? Together, Michael and Brady unpack the emotional crossroads where safety, lifestyle, and financial planning collide. You'll hear real client scenarios, practical tools to evaluate your options, and why a sound income plan gives you the freedom to say “yes” to what truly matters—even when the numbers don’t line up perfectly. Whether you’re retired, approaching retirement, or simply value peace of mind over perfect math, this episode will reshape the way you think about big-ticket decisions.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Purpose-driven decisions and emotional bias

(07:00) - Collecting key data before making a purchase

(10:00) - Defining what you want in your next car

(12:00) - Financing options and the role of interest rates

(14:00) - The importance of flexibility in retirement income plans

(17:00) - Balancing emotional comfort with financial impact

(20:00) - How a solid income plan supports confident decisions

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, The Dave Ramsey Show, BiggerPockets Podcast, The Motley Fool Money Show, We Study Billionaires, ChooseFI, Afford Anything, buying a car in retirement, new car on fixed income, should I buy a new car, retirement car buying guide, car purchase decision making, financial planning for retirees

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. All investments and investment strategies contain risk and may lose value.

Michael Acosta is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 6115 PARK SOUTH DRIVE, SUITE 200, CHARLOTTE NC, 28210, 704-5528507. Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of

Michael and Brady dig deep into a paradox affecting a generation: Millennials and Gen Z are planning their finances more than ever, yet still feel financially stuck. If you’ve ever felt like you’re checking all the boxes—budgeting, saving, investing—but still can’t shake the feeling of falling behind, this episode is for you. It’s not just about numbers—it’s about perspective, purpose, and progress. This isn’t your parents’ financial playbook, and that’s exactly why you need a new approach.

Key Takeaways:

• Why do younger Americans feel financially behind despite taking more proactive steps with their money?

• How have rising costs, shifting responsibilities, and social comparisons reshaped what financial success looks like today?

• What mindset and planning strategies can help Millennials and Gen Z find clarity, reduce stress, and build lasting financial momentum?

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Gen Z and Millennials: DIY financial planning trends

(05:00) - Major stressors: housing, student loans, and rising costs

(10:00) - Behavioral finance and anxiety-driven decision-making

(13:00) - Wage growth vs. cost of living: the uphill financial battle

(16:00) - Retirement savings shift: from pensions to 401(k)s

(19:00) - Rethinking the “standard” financial script

(22:00) - How to set goals that actually fit your life

(24:00) - The role of liquidity and flexibility in your financial plan

(27:00) - Why working with a coach or advisor makes a difference

(33:00) - Climbing the financial mountain: accumulation vs. decumulation

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, Stock Market Crashes, Millennial Financial Planning, Gen Z Money Struggles, Overcoming Financial Stress, Building Financial Confidence, Modern Financial Goals Strategy

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. All investments and investment strategies contain risk and may lose value.

Michael Acosta is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 6115 PARK SOUTH...

Are your Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) helping you build wealth—or holding you back? Michael and Brady break down one of the most misunderstood components of a high-income professional’s compensation package: RSUs. From tax implications and diversification strategies to avoiding lifestyle creep and planning with purpose, this episode gives you the tools to turn stock awards into long-term financial security. Whether you're new to RSUs or looking to sharpen your strategy, you’ll walk away with actionable insights to level up your wealth-building game. This episode is a must-listen for anyone receiving equity compensation and wanting to build extraordinary wealth with clarity and confidence.

Key Takeaways:

• How can professionals strategically manage RSUs to align with their short- and long-term financial goals?

• What are the key tax implications of RSUs, and how can you plan ahead to avoid surprises?

• Why is it important to diversify RSU holdings, and what are the risks of overconcentration in company stock?

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - What are RSUs

(02:00) - Excitement and risks of RSUs

(04:00) - Vesting and phantom value explained

(07:00) - Risks of changing employers

(08:00) - Tax implications when RSUs vest

(09:00) - Why companies prefer RSUs over bonuses

(16:00) - Planning around estimated taxes and W-4

(17:00) - Options after receiving vested shares

(23:00) - Emotional bias and loyalty to company stock

(24:00) - Goals-based decisions and opportunity cost

(25:00) - Periodic sales and tax considerations

(26:00) - Aligning RSUs with short- and long-term goals

(28:00) - Plan rules and trading restrictions

(31:00) - Risk of holding too much company stock

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, Stock Market Crashes, Millennial Financial Planning, Gen Z Money Struggles, Overcoming Financial Stress, Building Financial Confidence, Modern Financial Goals Strategy, Restricted Stock Units, RSU tax strategies, tech compensation planning, RSU investment tips, maximizing RSU benefits

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal,...

Market corrections can be unsettling, but for savvy investors, they also unlock powerful planning opportunities. In this eye-opening episode, Michael and Brady break down why a down market might be the perfect time to consider a Roth conversion. Learn how converting pre-tax retirement savings to Roth during a downturn can reduce your tax liability and supercharge your future tax-free growth. Discover who should consider this strategy, the key tax traps to avoid, and why coordination with your financial and tax professionals is critical. Whether you're years away from retirement or already taking distributions, this timely discussion could help you turn market lemons into long-term tax-free lemonade. If you're serious about proactive tax planning and wealth building—even in volatile times—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Key Takeaways:

• Why is a market downturn a strategic time to consider a Roth conversion?

• What key tax and income considerations should be reviewed before making a Roth move?

• Who stands to benefit most from Roth conversions, and how can professionals help guide the decision?

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) – The Psychology of a Pullback & Planning Ahead

(03:00) – Beyond “Hold the Line”: Turning Volatility Into Strategy

(04:30) – What is a Roth Conversion?

(06:00) – The Long-Term Tax-Free Growth Advantage

(08:30) – Roth vs. Traditional in Retirement

(10:00) – Why Down Markets Can Mean Lower Tax Bills

(13:00) – Who Should Consider Roth Conversions?

(15:00) – Key Tax Considerations & Common Pitfalls

(18:00) – Avoiding Mistakes: Timing, Income, and Liquidity

(21:00) – Who to Involve: Advisors, CPAs, and Your Spouse

(23:00) – Executing Smartly

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, Stock Market Crashes, Millennial Financial Planning, Gen Z Money Struggles, Overcoming Financial Stress, Building Financial Confidence, Modern Financial Goals Strategy, roth conversion during market downturn, tax planning strategies 2025, retirement planning in volatile markets, roth IRA vs traditional IRA, financial advisor tax strategies

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal,...

Michael and Brady dive into the rapidly shifting landscape of federal student loans — and why now is the time to pay attention. From the return of online applications at studentaid.gov to the major legal uncertainty around the SAVE plan, we unpack what borrowers need to do today to stay on track. Whether you're navigating income-driven repayment, thinking about loan consolidation, or just trying to avoid costly mistakes during tax season, this episode gives you clear insights and action steps. You'll learn how to choose between PSLF and time-based forgiveness — why your 2024 tax return could make or break your student loan payment — what happens if popular repayment plans like SAVE, PAYE, or ICR disappear ­— how to take control in a confusing, lawsuit-laden loan environment. Confused? Overwhelmed? You’re not alone — but you don’t have to be unprepared. Tune in to feel empowered, not paralyzed.

Key Takeaways:

• What recent legal and administrative developments have impacted the availability and structure of federal student loan repayment plans?

• How can borrowers use tax filing strategies to potentially reduce their monthly student loan payments?

• What are the differences in impact between public service loan forgiveness and time-based forgiveness amid ongoing changes in loan policy?

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Recent Developments in Student Loans

(05:00) - Impact on Borrowers

(09:00) - Where We Stand Now

(12:00) - Why Borrowers May Want to Act Now

(15:00) - Tax Filing and Loan Strategy

(20:00) - Extension Strategy

(22:00) - Married Couple (Resident + Working Spouse)

(25:00) - Number Crunching: SAVE vs IBR

(30:00) - Long-Term Planning Outlook

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, Stock Market Crashes, Millennial Financial Planning, Gen Z Money Struggles, Overcoming Financial Stress, Building Financial Confidence, Modern Financial Goals Strategy, Federal Student Loan Forgiveness 2025, Income-Driven Repayment Plan Updates, SAVE Plan Lawsuit and Implications, Student Loan Tax Strategy 2024, PSLF Buyback Program Explained

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and...

The stock market has been a wild ride lately, and if your emotions are following every twist and turn, you're not alone. Market swings can be nerve-wracking, but staying level-headed is the key to long-term success. In this episode, Michael and Brady break down exactly what market volatility means for your investments, no matter where you are in your financial journey. Whether you're just starting out, mid-career, or closing in on retirement, this episode will help you navigate turbulent markets with confidence. From smart portfolio strategies to opportunities hidden in the chaos, we’re turning uncertainty into action. Don't let fear drive your financial future! Tune in to hear expert insights, practical advice, and a refreshing perspective on why staying the course could be your best move yet. Grab your coffee (or something stronger), and let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways:

• How should investors approach market volatility based on their stage in the financial journey (accumulation vs. retirement)?

• What strategies can help mitigate risks and take advantage of market downturns, such as rebalancing and tax-efficient investing?

• Why is it important to focus on long-term investing and avoid making emotional decisions based on short-term market fluctuations?

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) – Market Fluctuations and Emotions

(03:00) – Market Volatility for Beginner Investors

(04:00) – Buying Market Dips

(07:00) – Historical S&P 500 Performance

(08:00) – Positive vs. Negative Years

(12:00) – Impact on Retirees

(15:00) – Wade Pfau’s Research

(18:00) – Retirement Allocations

(21:00) – Short vs. Long-Term Outlooks

(23:00) – 2025 Market Outlook

(24:00) – Diversification

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, Stock Market Crashes, Millennial Financial Planning, Gen Z Money Struggles, Overcoming Financial Stress, Building Financial Confidence, Modern Financial Goals Strategy, rebalancing your portfolio, tax efficient strategies., The Rewards of Long-Term Investing, Franklin Templeton, S&P 500, Wade Pfau, market downturns, volatile market, Glide Path Strategy

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide...

Retirement—it's the finish line we're all running toward, but how do you know if you're actually on track? Michael and Brady break down the key questions you need to ask yourself, the common pitfalls to avoid, and the real numbers behind what it takes to retire comfortably. Whether you're in your 20s just starting to save, in your 40s navigating peak earning years, or approaching retirement and wondering if you have enough, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you plan with confidence. Plus, they debunk the fear-inducing retirement calculators and offer a fresh, realistic approach to building your financial future. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by retirement planning, don't worry—you’re not alone. Tune in as Michael and Brady humanize the process, providing practical steps and guidance to ensure you’re building financial fortitude for your future.

Key Takeaways:

• How can individuals assess whether they are on track for retirement based on their age, savings, and lifestyle needs?

• Why is focusing on income and cash flow in retirement more important than simply accumulating assets?

• What key financial milestones should individuals aim for in each decade of their working years to ensure a secure retirement?

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - The importance of retirement planning and why it matters at any stage of life.

(03:00) - Regional differences in retirement expectations and how they impact planning.

(05:00) - Common questions people ask about their retirement readiness.

(06:00) - Key factors: Monthly spending and income as primary indicators.

(09:00) - Case study: A mid-30s professional with $500K in assets – is he on track?

(11:00) - The impact of inflation and why future expenses will be higher.

(13:00) - The importance of saving 20% of income and the challenges of peak earning years.

(15:00) - Benchmarks: How much should you have saved by different ages?

(18:00) - How guaranteed income sources (Social Security, pensions) affect retirement planning.

(20:00) - Different financial situations: A high-net-worth client vs. a frugal retiree.

(23:00) - The journey up the mountain (accumulation) vs. the journey down (distribution).

(27:00) - Risks in retirement and why flexibility is key.

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, Stock Market Crashes, Millennial Financial Planning, Gen Z Money Struggles, Overcoming Financial Stress, Building Financial Confidence, Modern Financial Goals Strategy, retirement planning, savings rate, investment strategy, retirement needs analysis, income replacement, wealth accumulation, financial security

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be...