The Retirement Trainer

EGSI Financial
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The Retirement Trainer with Ed Siddell: A podcast about helping you find ways to become financially fit for your future, no matter what kind of shape you’re in now.

  1. 113: Cutting Through the Noise To Make Better Investment Decisions in 2026

    JAN 20

    113: Cutting Through the Noise To Make Better Investment Decisions in 2026

    It’s that time of year when everyone talks about getting “in shape”—but with nonstop fear-mongering headlines, economic uncertainty, and market volatility, the more important question is: how much risk are you willing to take when the outlook feels tenuous and unstable?  In this episode, Ed and LeAnne cut through the noise and explain why your long-term plan matters more than ever. Ed unpacks what’s driving the current environment—from tariffs and geopolitical tension to interest rates, inflation, and the national debt—and explains why the market often moves ahead of what the Federal Reserve says it will do.  By the end, Ed brings the conversation home by reminding everyone to focus on what you can control: building a diversified portfolio that matches your risk, defining the true purpose of your money, and creating a plan that helps you stay confident through volatility. In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:  How “doom scrolling” can distort your view of the economy and your retirement decisions. How inflation, GDP growth, and interest rates interact and why rates don’t always fall when the Fed cuts. What servicing the national debt means for long-term fiscal pressure and market expectations. Why Ed believes a well-balanced portfolio is more important than ever right now. How to define your “purpose” for money and use it to determine the right level of risk for your plan. How Fit Is Your Retirement Plan?  We can help you manage your finances so you can pursue your goals. To learn more, visit EGSIFinancial.com

    30 min
  2. 112: Economist Peter Schiff Weighs on the Future of the U.S. Dollar, Hyperinflation and the Return to Gold Assets

    10/27/2025

    112: Economist Peter Schiff Weighs on the Future of the U.S. Dollar, Hyperinflation and the Return to Gold Assets

    For decades, America’s economic strength has been built on confidence in the U.S. dollar and the ability to borrow endlessly, but what happens when that confidence begins to fade? ​ In this episode, I’m joined by economist and author Peter Schiff, founder of Euro Pacific Capital. He unpacks the warning signs in an economy propped up by national debt, stimulus, and deficit spending. ​ Peter has long criticized the Federal Reserve, forecasting the consequences of unsustainable fiscal policies. At Euro Pacific Asset Management and SchiffGold, he guides investors by protecting wealth through real assets and global diversification. ​ In our conversation, Peter warns that the same policies fueling today’s markets are eerily similar to those of the 1970s, and how uncontrolled inflation and stimulus could lead Americans to big lifestyle changes in the future. He explains why the U.S. dollar’s dominance is dwindling, how America has been exporting inflation to the rest of the world, and what it means as nations pivot back toward gold. ​ Peter also lays out his predictions for the next 5-10 years, from the potential for hyperinflation to the real opportunities for those who own tangible assets and diversified foreign holdings. This is an episode you won’t want to miss! In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:  Why the strength of the U.S. dollar is a mirage and what’s causing it to weaken. How debt, deficits, and rate cuts could trigger a global shift back to gold. Why Peter believes Americans will face a lower standard of living in the coming years. The challenges the Fed faces with inflation, and the risk of defaulting on the debt by raising interest rates. How rising gold prices are an indicator that cutting interest rates is a mistake. Peter’s predictions on the prices of precious metals and Bitcoin in the near future. Practical steps to protect your retirement and purchasing power as inflation rises. How Fit Is Your Retirement Plan?  We can help you manage your finances so you can pursue your goals. To learn more, visit EGSIFinancial.com

    50 min
  3. 111: An Insider’s Look at the Future of the Fed Reserve and Rate Cuts with Danielle DiMartino Booth

    09/22/2025

    111: An Insider’s Look at the Future of the Fed Reserve and Rate Cuts with Danielle DiMartino Booth

    For most Americans, the Federal Reserve feels like a distant, complicated institution—but the decisions made behind those closed doors have a direct impact on our everyday lives. From rising mortgage rates to job market shifts and retirement income security, the Fed’s influence is everywhere. Yet few people fully understand its purpose, history, and the real stakes in the policy debates shaping today’s economy. That’s why I’m excited to welcome Danielle DiMartino Booth back to the podcast. As a former advisor to the President of the Dallas Federal Reserve during the Great Financial Crisis, and bestselling author of Fed Up: An Insider’s Take on Why the Federal Reserve is Bad for America, Danielle is now a leading voice on central banking and monetary policy. In our conversation, we outline the origins of the Federal Reserve, its evolving role, and why its independence is now at the center of one of the most consequential debates in modern history. Danielle explains the significance of upcoming Fed decisions, the controversies surrounding key policymakers, and how revisions to job market data reveal a very different economic picture than many Americans have been led to believe. And you won’t want to miss Danielle’s candid forecasts about where interest rates may go, what the Fed’s choices mean for retirees and investors, and her take on factors that could shape the U.S. economy for years ahead. In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:  The true origins and purpose of the Federal Reserve—and why it was created in 1913. Why the Fed’s independence from politics is under historic pressure. How job market data revisions reveal the U.S. may already be in recession. What the “dot plot” is, why it matters, and how it shapes investor expectations. Why upcoming rate cuts could impact retirees, small businesses, and markets in unexpected ways. How Fit Is Your Retirement Plan?  We can help you manage your finances so you can pursue your goals. To learn more, visit EGSIFinancial.com

    44 min
  4. 110: How to Overcome Behavioral Biases to Find Meaning & Purpose in Retirement with Dr. Daniel Crosby

    09/08/2025

    110: How to Overcome Behavioral Biases to Find Meaning & Purpose in Retirement with Dr. Daniel Crosby

    In today’s financial landscape, the biggest challenges facing investors aren’t always market volatility or economic uncertainty—they’re the hidden behavioral biases that derail good intentions and sound advice. From overconfidence to fear-driven decisions, many retirees and pre-retirees find that their emotions and habits are their greatest obstacles to long-term financial security. I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Daniel Crosby to the show. As a psychologist turned behavioral finance expert, Daniel’s career has focused on translating academic research into practical advice for everyday investors. He is a bestselling author, a renowned speaker, and one of the leading voices in behavioral finance. Through his work, Daniel helps people understand the psychology behind their money decisions—and how aligning finances with purpose can lead to better outcomes and a more meaningful life. In this conversation, we explored the four biggest mistakes people make with money, why simple rules often outperform complexity, and how tying financial decisions to personal purpose can transform both wealth and well-being.  You won’t want to miss Daniel’s simple, yet powerful framework for creating a meaningful life and how it applies to retirement planning, investing, and living with intention. In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:  The four behavioral finance pitfalls that sabotage investors. Why simple, rules-based systems consistently outperform even the most complex strategies. Daniel’s “River Jordan analogy” to explain why people resist simple but powerful financial advice. Why tying your money to a greater purpose leads to better decisions and stronger outcomes. The “Three Bs” for creating a meaningful life and how they shape financial planning and retirement. How Fit Is Your Retirement Plan?  We can help you manage your finances so you can pursue your goals. To learn more, visit EGSIFinancial.com

    42 min
  5. 109: The One Big Beautiful Bill Act and What It Means for Your Retirement

    08/11/2025

    109: The One Big Beautiful Bill Act and What It Means for Your Retirement

    With the approval of the One Big Beautiful Bill—also known as the Big Beautiful Tax Bill—many Americans are wondering what it means for their future. Will it benefit retirees and working families? What’s temporary and what’s permanent? And how should you respond before the window of opportunity closes? In this episode, Ed shares why the extension of the 2017 tax cuts is a welcome relief, even though the bill’s additional government spending raises valid concerns. He unpacks how the bill affects everything from Social Security taxation and senior deductions to Roth conversions and small business tax relief. With layers of misinformation surrounding the new legislation, Ed and LeAnne clarify what’s real—and what retirees and pre-retirees need to prioritize right now. Whether you’re confused about IRMAA thresholds, looking to optimize your Roth strategy, or wondering how estate taxes will be affected in the coming years, this episode will provide you with the clarity and context you need to make informed decisions. In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:  How the senior “bonus” deduction affects your taxes and when it expires. Why now is a critical window for Roth conversions before tax brackets revert. What the new bill changes for Social Security taxation and IRMAA and what stays the same. How small businesses benefit from the permanent QBI deduction and Section 179 expansion. Why having a flexible, purpose-driven plan matters more than ever. How Fit Is Your Retirement Plan?  We can help you manage your finances so you can pursue your goals. To learn more, visit EGSIFinancial.com

    23 min
  6. 108: Bold Predictions on the Future Value of Gold, Silver and Bitcoin with Robert Kiyosaki

    06/23/2025

    108: Bold Predictions on the Future Value of Gold, Silver and Bitcoin with Robert Kiyosaki

    As the national debt spirals out of control and trust in fiat currency dwindles, Americans are waking up to the reality that the financial system is built on unsustainable promises. With inflation rising and the U.S. dollar’s purchasing power shrinking, retirees and investors are seeking solutions that offer lasting value, peace of mind, and protection. In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Robert Kiyosaki back on the podcast. Robert is an entrepreneur, investor, and best-selling author of several books, including Rich Dad Poor Dad. He’s back for a sobering yet important conversation about the state of the economy and the direction of the country. He also weighs in on the value of hard assets, such as gold and silver, as well as the USD and Bitcoin. Fun fact: He was bang on with his predictions late last year.  In this conversation, Robert uncovers the truth behind the rising prices of gold, silver, and Bitcoin, as well as the diminishing faith and trust in U.S. institutions and the devastating consequences of the ever-growing national debt. Most importantly, Robert delivers straightforward advice: buy and own tangible assets that can’t be printed and improve your fundamental understanding of finance so you can stop relying on a broken system. In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:  Why Robert believes the U.S. dollar is “fake money.” The hidden costs of inflation and rising national debt. Why saving printed money and traditional investments is a losing strategy. Reasons to be bullish on assets like gold, silver, and Bitcoin in 2025 and beyond. The potential devastating impact of a global shift away from the U.S. dollar as reserve currency. Why financial education is the most powerful form of independence. How Fit Is Your Retirement Plan?  We can help you manage your finances so you can pursue your goals. To learn more, visit EGSIFinancial.com

    37 min
  7. 107: Exploring America’s Health Crisis, the MAHA Movement and Restoring Transparency & Trust with Dr. Ben Carson

    05/19/2025

    107: Exploring America’s Health Crisis, the MAHA Movement and Restoring Transparency & Trust with Dr. Ben Carson

    In a world where chronic illness is skyrocketing and faith in the healthcare system is fading, Americans are searching for ways to improve their physical and mental health without sacrificing their financial freedom. In today's episode, Dr. Ben Carson returns to the podcast to discuss some of the most pressing health and policy issues facing the country today, from the overuse of medications to the role of personal responsibility in overall health & wellness. Dr. Carson is the former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and a renowned neurosurgeon. We're thrilled to have him share his insights and expertise on America's health crisis, the dangers of ultra-processed food, and why preventative care is key to reversing long-term systemic issues. Drawing from decades of medical experience and public service, he offers a perspective on how government and individual choices shape the future of healthcare. In their conversation, they explore the issues contributing to the health crisis, the medical system, and the growing impact of the MAHA movement. They also discuss the popularity of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and how AI and Neuralink can improve Americans' health and lower healthcare costs. Dr. Carson shares thought-provoking ideas that challenge conventional thinking and advocate for a return to logic, transparency, and faith-based values in American society. In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:  Why Dr. Carson believes health starts with personal responsibility. The dangers of relying on drugs like GLP-1s without behavioral change. The environmental and lifestyle factors that are driving chronic disease. Why healthcare costs are so high—and what needs to change. Dr. Carson’s thoughts on AI in medicine and Neuralink. How transparency and health savings accounts could help fix a broken system. How Fit Is Your Retirement Plan?  We can help you manage your finances so you can pursue your goals. To learn more, visit EGSIFinancial.com

    39 min
  8. 106: Tariffs, Trade Wars and Tax Cuts: An Economist’s View of the Global Economy with Dr. Arthur Laffer

    05/12/2025

    106: Tariffs, Trade Wars and Tax Cuts: An Economist’s View of the Global Economy with Dr. Arthur Laffer

    One of the biggest issues on every American’s mind is the impact of a global trade war and how trade policies and  tariffs will impact their financial future—and rightfully so. Shifting economic alliances can have far-reaching effects on markets, inflation, and long-term investment strategies and we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome today’s guest back on the podcast. Dr. Arthur Laffer is a world-renowned economist, creator of the Laffer Curve and former economic advisor to President Reagan. He’s been a leading voice on the economy and trade policies and has helped reshape fiscal policy worldwide.  In our conversation, Dr. Laffer shares his perspective by presenting facts and historical data on how trade agreements and tariffs have been successfully (and unsuccessfully) throughout American history, why China is actually not American’s enemy in manufacturing shortfalls and how reducing taxes, both on individuals and at municipal and state levels would lead to a boom in the U.S. economy. In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:  Dr. Laffer's views on the President’s first 100 days in office How trade deficits and capital surpluses have impacted the U.S. economy over the last 200 years. Why international trade is so incredibly important and how tariffs have been used throughout history. The terrible impact of trade wars and tariffs for the U.S. and its trade partners. Why Dr. Laffer believes that China is not the problem in manufacturing growth The math behind why transferring money from tax payers to unemployment and welfare has consequences. Dr. Laffer's outlook on the U.S. economy and what it means for your investment decisions. How Fit Is Your Retirement Plan?  We can help you manage your finances so you can pursue your goals. To learn more, visit EGSIFinancial.com

    58 min
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About

The Retirement Trainer with Ed Siddell: A podcast about helping you find ways to become financially fit for your future, no matter what kind of shape you’re in now.

Information

  • Creator
    EGSI Financial
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2023
  • Show Website
    The Retirement Trainer