Money Sense

Ellenbecker Investment Group
  • 5.0 (8)
  • Government
  • Updated Biweekly

Money Sense is your trusted guide to building true wealth—beyond just money. Hosted by Karen Ellenbecker, founder and senior wealth advisor at Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), this weekly podcast helps you make confident decisions about your finances, health, and legacy. For over 35 years, Karen and the EIG Wealth Advisors have combined financial planning expertise with insights from economists, attorneys, authors, tax professionals, and other thought leaders. Each episode explores how to align your money with your values, create a life you love, and leave a lasting impact. Whether you’re planning for retirement, navigating taxes, or simply looking for financial clarity, Money Sense delivers practical strategies and inspiring conversations to help you live with purpose. New episodes every Tuesday. Subscribe now and start building wealth that makes sense—for your life and your legacy.

  1. Aug 28

    Small Business Tips and Habits

    Copilot said: Building a successful business takes more than passion and determination. Long-term growth requires financial clarity, strategic decision-making, and the ability to balance profitability with sustainability. For entrepreneurs, understanding key financial metrics, building the right support team, and protecting their own well-being are all essential components of lasting success. This week on Money Sense, Heather Deaton, Wealth Advisor at Ellenbecker Investment Group, welcomes Cheryl McMurtry, Founder and President of McMurtry Financial Services. Drawing on her experience helping small businesses and nonprofit organizations strengthen their financial foundations, Cheryl shares practical insights on the habits, strategies, and financial disciplines that help businesses thrive beyond the critical first few years. The conversation explores the importance of knowing your numbers, understanding cash flow, budgeting for growth, maintaining profitability, and building the right team of professional partners. Heather and Cheryl also discuss pricing strategies, business sustainability, succession planning, delegation, and the often-overlooked connection between entrepreneurial success and personal well-being. Episode Highlights: 1:31 | Cheryl shares her background and the mission behind McMurtry Financial Services 2:52 | Why most businesses fail within the first three to five years and the role financial health plays in long-term success 4:46 | The importance of knowing your numbers and running a business with financial clarity 6:27 | Understanding your break-even point and why every business owner should know it 7:28 | Profit margins, pricing strategies, and avoiding the trap of underselling your value 9:18 | Managing cash flow and understanding how money moves through a business 10:13 | Identifying seasonal trends and using historical data to make better business decisions 13:19 | How often business owners should review financial data and meet with trusted advisors 14:35 | Why waiting until tax season is often too late to make meaningful financial improvements 15:40 | Building reserves, emergency funds, and financial safeguards for businesses 16:54 | The value of lines of credit and planning for unexpected challenges 19:10 | Becoming an expert in your industry while relying on specialists for financial guidance 19:42 | Why budgeting serves as the roadmap for sustainable business growth 24:13 | Understanding your unique value proposition and pricing it appropriately 27:42 | The importance of managing expenses and evaluating the true cost of doing business 29:17 | Building a team of professional partners, from marketing specialists to HR experts 30:13 | Knowing where your time creates the most value and learning when to delegate 31:52 | Succession planning and developing future leaders within your organization 33:41 | Common financial pitfalls that prevent businesses from reaching long-term profitability 34:14 | Cheryl's “You Are Here” financial map analogy and why accurate bookkeeping matters 36:14 | Remaining compliant with taxes, regulations, and reporting requirements 38:12 | Protecting your well-being as a business owner and avoiding burnout 40:22 | Moving from the hustle mindset to building a scalable business with systems and processes 42:11 | Setting boundaries, defining your ideal clients, and learning to say no strategic...

  2. Aug 24

    Planning Extraordinary Travel

    Travel is often one of the most rewarding goals people build into their financial plans. Whether it's exploring a bucket-list destination, creating lasting memories with children and grandchildren, or immersing yourself in a new culture, travel has the power to enrich life in ways few other experiences can. But today's travel landscape requires thoughtful planning, flexibility, and expert guidance to make the most of every adventure. This week on Money Sense, Jamie Williams, CFP®, Wealth Advisor at Ellenbecker Investment Group, welcomes travel experts Bob Winter and Jim Wilde of Lake Country Travel and Entourage Expeditions. Drawing on decades of industry experience and personal travel to more than 110 countries, Bob and Jim share insights into today's biggest travel trends, how travelers can maximize value, and what retirees and families should consider when planning meaningful experiences around the world. The conversation explores everything from river cruising, small-group travel, and cultural immersion experiences to multi-generational travel, travel insurance, budgeting, passport requirements, and destination planning. Bob and Jim also discuss common travel mistakes, how to accommodate varying mobility levels, why flexibility remains essential, and how thoughtful travel planning can create unforgettable experiences for families and retirees alike. Episode Highlights: 1:31 | Bob and Jim share their backgrounds, travel experience, and how Lake Country Travel and Entourage Expeditions were founded 3:22 | Adventures in Antarctica and why expedition travel continues to grow in popularity 4:29 | Major travel trends including river cruising, small-group experiences, and cultural immersion travel 6:52 | How first-time travelers can determine whether guided tours or custom itineraries are right for them 8:36 | Accommodating mobility concerns and selecting travel options that match individual comfort levels 10:18 | Bucket-list destinations, the Seven Continents Club, and experiencing places before they change forever 11:52 | Multi-generational travel as a legacy planning strategy that creates lifelong family memories 13:37 | Why major trips should often be planned 18 to 24 months in advance 15:03 | The importance of flexibility, contingency planning, and adapting during travel 16:31 | Incorporating meaningful travel goals into a comprehensive financial plan 17:05 | What's driving higher travel costs and how travelers should prepare for sticker shock 18:45 | Three practical ways to maximize travel value, including early booking discounts, cash savings opportunities, and travel rewards programs 20:48 | Why people should prioritize meaningful travel experiences before retirement whenever possible 22:19 | Common travel mistakes, over-planning itineraries, and avoiding travel burnout 23:21 | Passport renewal requirements and important documentation considerations for international travel 24:47 | REAL ID, TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and strategies to simplify the travel experience 26:01 | Travel insurance essentials, including trip cancellation, medical coverage, delays, and baggage protection 29:19 | Where spending a little more can significantly improve your travel experience 31:06 | Memorable bucket-list destinations including Antarctica, Alaska, and the Canadian Rockies 32:43 | How travel creates friendships, community, and lifelong connections among fellow travelers 33:19 | A unique Morocco expedition built around experiencing a nearly total solar eclipse 34:14 | Final travel advice for retirees: prioritize energy, interests, and richer experiences over checking destinations off a list 35:00 | Great starter travel options for new international travelers, including river cruises and rail journeys 36:24 | How to learn more about Lake Country Travel an...

  3. Aug 17

    Retirement Realities

    Retirement is one of life's biggest transitions, and while financial preparation is essential, the emotional, social, and practical realities of retirement are just as important. From finding purpose and maintaining relationships to navigating health care costs and changing travel plans, retirement often looks different than people expect. This week on Money Sense, Jean Range, Senior Wealth Advisor at Ellenbecker Investment Group, welcomes former Ellenbecker advisor Diane Byrne for an honest conversation about retirement. Drawing on her decades of experience helping clients prepare for retirement, along with her own six years of retirement experience, Diane shares what surprised her most, what she planned well, and what lessons she learned along the way. The conversation explores everything from practicing for retirement before leaving the workforce and maintaining your sense of identity, to planning for health care expenses, staying active, managing taxes, and creating a lifestyle filled with purpose and meaningful connections. Jean and Diane also discuss aging in place, retirement travel, spending habits after leaving work, and what truly defines a successful retirement. Episode Highlights: 1:18 | Why retirement can feel intimidating and why so many people fear the transition 2:45 | Diane's approach to retirement planning and "practicing" retirement before leaving work 4:20 | Finding purpose, community, and activities that fill your cup in retirement 4:41 | Navigating identity and staying connected after leaving your career behind 6:13 | Unexpected retirement surprises, including retiring during COVID 7:15 | Designing a forever home and planning to age in place 8:22 | Health challenges that changed retirement expectations 10:16 | Retiring to something, not from something: finding purpose in retirement 11:00 | Pursuing hobbies, friendships, and passions with newfound freedom 11:49 | How learning the ukulele created community, volunteer opportunities, and lifelong friendships 13:23 | The mission and impact of the Ellenbecker Charitable Foundation 14:19 | Travel expectations versus retirement realities 15:03 | How health and changing interests can reshape retirement travel plans 16:43 | Solo travel options and finding communities that share your interests 17:46 | Buyer beware: the retirement expenses people often underestimate 18:20 | The true cost of health care in retirement and Medicare considerations 19:28 | Why taxes matter more in retirement than many people expect 20:27 | Tax planning strategies and managing retirement income sources 21:44 | The importance of staying physically and mentally active in retirement 22:42 | Preparing for retirement several years before you leave the workforce 22:48 | Why major purchases may be easier to make before retiring 23:44 | Creating dedicated savings for meaningful goals and special experiences 24:43 | Knowing when you're truly ready to retire 25:25 | Diane's definition of a successful retirement and the freedom of having choices ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management services for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable organizations. EIG's planning-first approach helps clients align their financial decisions with th...

  4. Aug 10

    7 Ways Grandparents Can Help Their Grandchildren Financially

    Helping grandchildren financially is about much more than simply giving money. Thoughtful planning can create opportunities for education, encourage healthy financial habits, and establish a lasting family legacy that benefits future generations. This week on Money Sense, Nick Kibardin, MBA, CFP®, welcomes Sandy Miller, Wealth Advisor Associate at Ellenbecker Investment Group, for a conversation about seven ways grandparents can help their grandchildren. Drawing from both her professional experience and her role as a grandmother of seven, Sandy shares practical strategies for gifting, saving, investing, and passing along financial values that can make a meaningful impact for years to come. The discussion covers everything from cash gifts and Roth IRA opportunities for working teenagers to 529 plans, custodial accounts, trusts, direct tuition payments, appreciated stock gifting strategies, and the newly introduced Trump Accounts. Along the way, Nick and Sandy highlight the importance of financial education and how grandparents can use these tools not only to transfer wealth, but also to teach responsibility and stewardship. Episode Highlights: 1:20 | #1 Gifting cash and teaching financial responsibility 4:42 | Using earned income and Roth IRAs to build long-term wealth 5:43 | #2 Understanding the benefits of 529 college savings plans 9:41 | New flexibility for 529 plans, including Roth IRA rollovers 10:38 | #3 How custodial (UTMA) accounts can teach investing fundamentals 15:36 | #4 Using trusts to create a lasting family legacy 18:36 | #5 Direct tuition and medical payments as gifting strategies 20:42 | #6 The advantages and considerations of gifting appreciated stock 23:58 | #7 Exploring the new Trump Accounts and their potential benefits 28:15 | Educational resources available through Ellenbecker Investment Group 29:48 | Final thoughts on financial education, family values, and legacy planning ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management services for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable organizations. EIG's planning-first approach helps clients align their financial decisions with their values, goals, and long-term vision for the future. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to specific products, services, legislation, or organizations do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group. Before making financial, tax, or estate planning decisions, consult with qualified professionals familiar with your individual circumstances.

  5. Aug 3

    Q3 2026 Bond Market Update

    Markets are constantly balancing optimism and uncertainty. While headlines often focus on volatility, long-term success comes from understanding the forces driving investment decisions and maintaining a disciplined strategy aligned with your goals. This week on Money Sense, Jamie Williams welcomes Dick Schiller, CFA and Senior Wealth Advisor at Pavlic Investment Advisors, for a discussion on the current investment landscape. Together, they explore the ongoing bull versus bear market debate, the impact of artificial intelligence on corporate earnings and market performance, and what investors should be watching as economic conditions continue to evolve. The conversation also takes a deeper look at fixed income investing, including today's interest rate environment, the role of bonds in a diversified portfolio, and how thoughtful asset allocation can help investors navigate uncertainty. Dick shares insights on corporate bonds, market expectations for interest rates, and why maintaining a long-term perspective remains essential regardless of market conditions. Episode Highlights: 1:48 | Understanding bull and bear markets 5:29 | The bullish case for today's market 7:22 | How AI spending is driving earnings growth 10:25 | Potential risks investors should watch 14:47 | The current fixed income landscape 18:12 | Why "higher for longer" interest rates matter 21:23 | Federal Reserve expectations and market outlook 23:20 | Cash management and bond ladder strategies 30:10 | Why corporate bonds remain attractive 35:19 | Investor discipline during market uncertainty 38:04 | AI, productivity, and long-term market opportunities PAVLIC INVESTMENT ADVISORS Pavlic Investment Advisors is an independent investment management firm providing portfolio management, fixed income expertise, and investment consulting services for individuals, families, institutions, and financial advisors. The firm focuses on disciplined investment strategies, risk management, and customized portfolio solutions designed to help clients pursue their long-term financial goals. Website: pavlic.com ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the MPC Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies or organizations do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

  6. Jul 21

    The Psychology of Retirement

    Retirement is one of the biggest life transitions we face, yet most retirement conversations focus solely on the financial side. In this episode of Money Sense, Senior Wealth Advisor Jean Range sits down with Dr. Jessica Fischer, Brown Deer Campus Director of Clinical Services at Rogers Behavioral Health, to discuss the emotional and psychological realities of retirement. Jean and Dr. Fischer discuss the stages of retirement, the importance of purpose and community, signs that loneliness or depression may be developing, and practical ways to prepare emotionally for this next chapter of life. They also share resources for retirees and families looking to support healthy aging and overall well-being. 00:00 Why Retirement Is More Than a Financial Decision 02:12 When Your Career Becomes Your Identity 07:08 Building Purpose, Routine, and Social Connection 09:32 The Stages of Retirement Adjustment 13:14 Recognizing Loneliness, Anxiety, and Depression 15:24 When One Spouse Retires Before the Other 19:34 Finding Activities That Fill Your Bucket 23:33 Creating a Happier, More Meaningful Retirement New episodes of Money Sense drop weekly. Subscribe for more conversations that connect financial education with real-life decisions. #MoneySense #RetirementPlanning #RetirementLifestyle #Retirement #MentalHealth #HealthyAging #BehavioralHealth #LifeAfterWork #FinancialPlanning #PersonalFinance #FinancialEducation #EllenbeckerInvestmentGroup ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies or organizations do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

  7. Jul 14

    The Difference Between Tax Preparation and Tax Planning

    Taxes are often something people think about once a year. Gather the documents, file the return, and move on. But what if that approach is causing you to miss valuable opportunities? In this episode of Money Sense, Wealth Services Advisor Nik Kibardin sits down with Richard Wolosek, CPA and Tax Planning Advisor at Ellenbecker Investment Group, to break down the critical difference between tax preparation and tax planning. While tax preparation focuses on reporting what already happened, tax planning helps shape what happens next. Nik and Richard explore how proactive tax strategies can impact every stage of life, from accumulating wealth and preparing for retirement to leaving a tax-efficient legacy for future generations. They also share real-world examples of how thoughtful planning can help reduce taxes, avoid costly Medicare premium increases, maximize charitable giving strategies, and create more flexibility throughout retirement. 00:00 Tax Preparation vs. Tax Planning: What's the Difference? 04:06 How Tax Planning Creates More Financial Options 08:42 Tax Strategies During Your Working Years 15:18 Retirement Tax Planning Opportunities 20:22 Legacy Planning, Inheritance, and Taxes 21:41 Real Client Stories 33:20 Final Takeaways  New episodes of Money Sense drop weekly. Subscribe for more conversations that connect financial education with real life decisions. #MoneySense #TaxPlanning #TaxPreparation #RetirementPlanning #RothConversion #FinancialEducation #PersonalFinance #TaxStrategy #WealthManagement #RetirementIncome #FinancialPlanning #EllenbeckerInvestmentGroup ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: https://www.ellenbecker.com/ This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies or organizations do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

  8. Jul 7

    Pet Care, Costs, Planning, and Community Resources

    Pets are family, but they also come with financial responsibilities that many owners don't fully anticipate. In this episode of Money Sense, Wealth Services Advisor Courtney Witthuhn is joined by Ellenbecker Investment Group Director of Marketing Sara McGuire to discuss the true cost of pet ownership, how to financially prepare for a pet, and the community resources available to help families keep their beloved companions healthy and at home. From pet insurance and emergency vet expenses to fostering, volunteering, and affordable care programs, this conversation offers practical guidance for current and future pet owners. Whether you're considering adding a pet to your family or looking for ways to better plan for your furry friend's future, this episode is packed with actionable insights. 00:00 Why Pet Planning Matters 01:57 The Real Cost of Pet Ownership 08:55 Preparing Financially for a Pet 15:00 Budgeting, Pet Insurance & Emergency Expenses 22:10 Alternatives to Ownership: Fostering & Volunteering 25:58 Community Resources & Estate Planning for Pet New episodes of Money Sense drop weekly. Subscribe for more conversations that connect financial education with real life decisions. #MoneySense #PetCareCosts #PetInsurance #FinancialPlanning #PetOwnership #WisconsinHumaneSociety #AnimalRescue #VeterinaryCare #PetBudgeting #EstatePlanning #PersonalFinance #FinancialWellness ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Money Sense is your trusted guide to building true wealth—beyond just money. Hosted by Karen Ellenbecker, founder and senior wealth advisor at Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), this weekly podcast helps you make confident decisions about your finances, health, and legacy. For over 35 years, Karen and the EIG Wealth Advisors have combined financial planning expertise with insights from economists, attorneys, authors, tax professionals, and other thought leaders. Each episode explores how to align your money with your values, create a life you love, and leave a lasting impact. Whether you’re planning for retirement, navigating taxes, or simply looking for financial clarity, Money Sense delivers practical strategies and inspiring conversations to help you live with purpose. New episodes every Tuesday. Subscribe now and start building wealth that makes sense—for your life and your legacy.

Information

  • Creator
    Ellenbecker Investment Group
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    399
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    Copyright © Ellenbecker
  • Show Website
    Money Sense