Mark's Money Mind

Mark Trautman
  • 5.0 (73)
  • INVESTING

This educational personal finance show combines money lessons, timely topics, personal stories, and community wisdom to help listeners and viewers master their finances to enjoy a stress free life of financial freedom.

  1. 3D AGO

    Navigating the New Credit Card Rewards Landscape | Episode 061

    In this episode, Mark discusses his recent hiatus from the podcast during a Caribbean trip and shares insights on maximizing credit card rewards.  He provides a detailed breakdown of various credit card options for earning travel rewards, including the Capital One Venture X, Chase Sapphire Preferred and Reserve, and American Express Platinum cards.  Mark also offers tips for beginners on building credit and using cash back cards, emphasizing the importance of paying off credit card balances in full each month to avoid interest charges.  Additionally, he shares personal stories about travel adventures and how to use credit card points effectively for both domestic and international travel. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel Discover Credit Cards Citi Credit Cards Chase Freedom cards Earn cash back with the Chase Freedom Unlimited or Chase Freedom Flex credit card. I can be rewarded if you apply here and are approved for the card. Chase United cards Choose any United MileagePlus® credit card that is right for you. I can be rewarded too if you apply here and are approved for the card. Chase Southwest cards You can choose any Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card. Earn Companion Pass® through 2/28/27 plus up to 40,000 points with a Southwest Rapid Rewards Personal Credit Card. Business owners can earn up to 80,000 points with a Southwest Rapid Rewards Business Credit Card. I can be awarded if you apply here and are approved for the card. Chase World of Hyatt Capital One Venture X If you apply using my referral link and are approved, I will get a referral bonus. Chase Sapphire Reserve or Preferred Earn 125,000 bonus points with Sapphire Reserve® or 75,000 bonus points with Sapphire Preferred®. I can be rewarded if you apply here and are approved for either card. All The Hacks podcast with Chris Hutchins Helpful Air Travel Rewards websites Point.me PointsYeah The FI Collective Timestamps: 00:25 Mark's Caribbean Adventure 01:07 Travel Challenges and Lessons Learned 02:46 Introduction to Credit Card Rewards 03:57 Building and Managing Credit 08:28 Cashback and Starter Credit Cards 11:48 Airline and Hotel Credit Cards 19:04 Capital One Venture X Card Benefits 24:55 Chase Sapphire Cards Overview 30:59 Priority Pass Lounge Access 31:11 Couponing Benefits Breakdown 31:55 Chase Card Travel and Dining Credits and Other Perks 34:53 Chase Points and Transfer Partners 37:34 Amex Platinum Card Overview 40:19 Amex Platinum Card Credits and Benefits 45:38 Booking Flights with Points 46:58 Travel Rewards Strategies and Tips 53:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    56 min

  2. 12/17/2025

    Financial Literacy Miniseries - Part 6 | Episode 060

    Understanding Income Taxes & Key Financial Lessons on a Simple Index Card In the concluding episode of the six-part Financial Literacy Miniseries, the focus is on income taxes and summarizing the miniseries on an index card.  The episode begins with an overview of the W-4 form, explaining its purpose for determining withholding for federal and state taxes. Mark further discusses various tax forms one might receive, such as W-2, 1099, and others, detailing what each form reports and their relevance for filing tax returns.  Additionally, the episode covers basic tax filing requirements, how tax brackets work, and highlights notable tax credits including education credits. The episode wraps up the miniseries by summarizing the key financial lessons taught, down to ten key points on a simple index card. Mark ends the episode highlighting the books he will be handing out to the students this year. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel Navigating Your Tax Return and The One-Page Financial Plan | Episode 006 2025 Quick Tax Reference Guide The Index Card The Simple Path to Wealth by JL Collins I Will Teach You To Be Rich by Ramit Sethi The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel Taking Stock by Jordan Grumet Timestamps: 00:45 Understanding the W-4 Form 02:35 Decoding the W-2 Form 05:41 Other Important Tax Documents 08:19 Filing Your Tax Return 11:20 How Tax Rates Work 13:36 Key Tax Credits Explained 16:49 The Index Card - A Summary of Financial Literacy Lessons 24:03 Recommended Financial Books _______________ As an Amazon Associate this show earns income from qualifying purchases. Affiliate links do not increase your costs, and we will only link to products or services that we are familiar with and that we feel may deliver value to you. The modest income received from affiliate links helps support the cost of running and managing this show.

    26 min

  3. 12/12/2025

    Financial Literacy Miniseries - Part 5 | Episode 059

    Protecting Yourself from Financial Loss: Insurance, Identity Theft, and Fraud Prevention In part five of the financial literacy miniseries, Mark delves into strategies for protecting oneself from financial loss through insurance, identity theft prevention, and fraud avoidance.  Mark covers the four primary risk management techniques: risk avoidance, risk reduction, risk retention, and risk transfer. He discusses various types of insurance, including health, homeowners, renters, auto, and life insurance, outlining their importance and the details of how they function.  Additionally, Mark provides strategies to protect against identity theft and common fraud schemes, emphasizing vigilance in monitoring financial activities and securing personal information.  The episode concludes with a preview of the final part of the miniseries, which will cover income taxes and provide a summary of the top 10 financial lessons from the miniseries in an easy-to-remember format. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel My Social Security Account Official Annual Credit Report website Experian Credit Freeze Equifax Credit Freeze TransUnion Credit Freeze Timestamps: 00:43 Understanding Risk Management 07:57 Types of Insurance 08:05 The Importance of Health Insurance 09:57 Auto and Homeowner's Insurance 12:02 Life and Disability Insurance 14:44 Special Insurance Considerations 16:37 Protecting Against Identity Theft 24:24 Common Fraud Schemes 33:54 Conclusion and Next Steps

    36 min

  4. 12/06/2025

    Financial Literacy Miniseries - Part 4 | Episode 058

    The Power of Compounding and Understanding Credit Reports and Credit Scores In this episode, host Mark Trautman explores the topics of compounding, credit reports and credit scores. He begins with an engaging riddle that demonstrates the astonishing impact of compounding to illustrate its significance. Then using historical data and examples, Mark explains how starting early with investments can result in significant financial growth over time.  Mark then transitions to the second segment, where he breaks down the intricacies of credit reports and scores. He discusses what factors influence credit scores, the importance of maintaining a good payment history and minimizing credit utilization. Mark then covers the various implications of different credit score ranges. He also provides practical advice on accessing and monitoring your credit report and credit score.  This episode is part four of the financial literacy miniseries designed to help listeners improve their financial knowledge, avoid common financial pitfalls and achieve financial freedom. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel Official Annual Credit Report website Timestamps: 00:42 The Power of Compounding: The Magic Penny 03:11 Real-Life Examples of Compounding 07:16 The Early Bird vs. The Procrastinator 14:40 The Impact of Investment Costs 17:41 Understanding Credit Reports 21:47 Decoding Credit Scores 30:11 Conclusion and Next Steps

    33 min

  5. 12/03/2025

    Financial Literacy Miniseries - Part 3 | Episode 057

    Understanding Liabilities and Calculating Net Worth In this episode, Mark continues the financial literacy miniseries by focusing on liabilities and how to calculate net worth. He explains various short-term and long-term liabilities, including credit cards, student loans, auto loans, and home mortgages.  Mark emphasizes the importance of managing credit card debt and understanding the implications of student loans. Additionally, he discusses the structure of auto loans and mortgages and their impact on financial health.  The episode concludes with a step-by-step guide on calculating net worth. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel Federal Student Aid website Timestamps: 00:25 Recap and Today's Focus: Liabilities 01:14 Understanding Liabilities: Short-term vs Long-term 01:53 Managing Credit Card Debt 08:44 Student Loans 15:03 Auto Loans and Mortgages 21:20 Organizing Liabilities on the Net Worth Statement 21:57 Calculating and Understanding Net Worth 25:15 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

    27 min

  6. 11/29/2025

    Financial Literacy Miniseries - Part 2 | Episode 056

    Understanding Your Net Worth Statement: Assets Unveiled In this episode Mark guides listeners through the asset side of the net worth statement. Building on the last episode's discussion on tracking income and expenses with a money journal, Mark explains the importance of categorizing assets into cash and cash equivalents, investments, and use assets.  He delves into the specifics of each category, offering practical advice on how to compile and assess these assets for your financial snapshot. From understanding different types of accounts to recognizing the value of personal property and investments, this episode serves as a comprehensive guide to mastering the asset side of your net worth statement.  Tune in next time for the next part of the mini-series, where liabilities and calculating net worth will be discussed. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel Timestamps: 01:19 Recap of Money Journal and Introduction to Net Worth Statement 03:21 Cash and Cash Equivalents 04:45 Investments Overview 06:40 Use Assets Explained 08:23 Deep Dive into Cash and Cash Equivalents 12:04 Understanding Bonds 16:43 Stocks and Their Returns 22:09 Investment Accounts: Taxable, Tax-Deferred, and Tax-Free 25:16 Conclusion and Next Steps

    28 min

  7. 11/26/2025

    Financial Literacy Miniseries - Part 1 | Episode 055

    Kickstarting Financial Literacy: Tracking Income and Expenses In this episode Mark introduces a special miniseries aimed at the high school seniors of Crested Butte Community School. Mark outlines his plan for making financial literacy accessible through podcast episodes that parallel his classroom lessons.  He delves into the key components of the first lesson: tracking income and expenses. Mark discusses setting up a ‘Money Journal,' understanding paychecks, categorizing expenses, and prioritizing savings. He emphasizes the importance of living within your means and avoiding 'lifestyle creep.'  Tune in to explore actionable steps towards financial freedom and learn about tools and techniques to maintain a healthy financial life. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel Spending Tracker App (iPhone) Spending Tracker App (Google) Timestamps: 00:25 Purpose of the Financial Literacy Miniseries 02:35 Overview of Financial Literacy Course 05:23 Lesson 1: Tracking Income and Expenses 06:01 Understanding Financial Statements 12:34 Fixed, Variable, and Periodic Expenses 14:40 Prioritizing Savings 22:19 Tools for Tracking Spending 24:32 Wrap Up

    28 min

  8. 10/29/2025

    Affordable Care Act Subsidy Changes for 2026 | Episode 054

    In this episode Mark delves into the intricacies of ACA subsidies and the significant changes expected in 2026, including the return of the subsidy cliff and increases in Expected Premium Contribution levels based on household Federal Poverty Level guidelines.  He also shares insights from the new book 'Tax Planning To and Through Early Retirement' by Cody Garrett, CFP and Sean Mullaney, CPA which challenges his current approach to Roth IRA conversions. Mark also discusses his personal financial planning strategy for 2026 while offering listeners insight on how to navigate the evolving healthcare landscape. The episode concludes with a light-hearted note about Halloween preparations. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel Beyond the Basics ACA Subsidy Reference Chart - Coverage Year 2025 Beyond the Basics ACA Subsidy Reference Chart - Coverage Year 2026 Tax Planning To and Through Early Retirement by Cody Garrett, CFP and Sean Mullaney, CPA Timestamps: 00:22 Life Update: Moving and Teaching 00:58 Roth IRA Conversions and ACA Subsidies 04:53 Upcoming Changes in ACA Subsidies 08:01 Federal Poverty Guidelines and Expected Premium Contributions Explained 18:34 Planning for 2026 and Beyond 25:58 Halloween Fun and Show Wrap-Up _______________ As an Amazon Associate this show earns income from qualifying purchases. Affiliate links do not increase your costs, and we will only link to products or services that we are familiar with and that we feel may deliver value to you. The modest income received from affiliate links helps support the cost of running and managing this show.

    28 min
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Trailer

5
out of 5
73 Ratings

About

This educational personal finance show combines money lessons, timely topics, personal stories, and community wisdom to help listeners and viewers master their finances to enjoy a stress free life of financial freedom.

Information

  • Creator
    Mark Trautman
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    62
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Mark's Money Mind
  • Show Website
    Mark's Money Mind

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