The Bull and Bear Show: Recent Episodes
Michael McGuire
Small changes, made over time, can produce significant results. Much like a high performance engine, or an entire orchestra, when even a small part is not doing what it is supposed to do, everything suffers. And the same is true of your finances. This show is dedicated to the small things that make a significant difference.
During this show, we’re going to look at five possible Social Security steps for couples as well as basic Social Security elements that everyone should know.
During this show, we’ll look at some steps you can take if you’re suddenly laid off from your job within five years of your preferred retirement date.
So far this year we've seen extreme market volatility, but does that mean you need to make any drastic financial moves? In this episode we'll talk about what is happening and tips to weather the ups and downs of the markets and the economy.
During this show, we’ll begin by looking at the retirement needs of Gen X before broadening out to discuss the retirement needs for workers of all ages.
In this episode we look at the market volatility and how you can have a plan to deal with it.
During this episode, we’ll discuss things you need to know about Social Security in 2025 as well as some of the lesser-known services that Social Security provides.
In this episode, we demystify the world of investing by exploring the dos and don'ts. We'll cover everything from initial consultations and risk assessments to portfolio construction and ongoing management, providing a clear roadmap for anyone seeking expert guidance. Don't let your emotions affect your financial decisions!
During this show, we’ll consider if you should plan to live to 95, five steps retirement steps, and building a retirement budget.
During this show, we’re going to chat about the signs that help you how to know if you’re ready for retirement.
In this episode we uncover how your retirement income is taxed, explore strategies to minimize your tax burden, and ensure you keep more of your hard-earned money during your golden years.
In this episode, we will discuss the impact of tariffs on the global economy. We will also discuss how tariffs can affect your personal finances. Finally, we will provide some tips on how to protect your finances in a time of rising tariffs.
During this episode, we’ll discuss things you need to know about Social Security in 2025 as well as some of the lesser-known services that Social Security provides.
In this episode we explore actionable steps to achieve your financial goals in the new year. We'll discuss strategies for budgeting, saving, and investing, including tips for reducing debt, maximizing retirement contributions, and building an emergency fund. Join us as we provide practical advice and motivation to help you make 2025 your most financially successful year yet.
On this show, we’re going to discuss items you’ll want to include on your retirement anti-bucket list and will also look at some of the things that often get overlooked during retirement planning.
On this show, we’ll look at how younger workers feel about retirement, and we’ll then discuss retirement prep at different ages.
During this show, we’re going to discuss how you can save money on withdrawals from retirement accounts.
During this program, we’re going to discuss what the recent news of a Fed rate cut means for the average American.
In this episode, we dive deep into strategies to protect your retirement savings from market volatility and unexpected expenses. Discover how to diversify your investments, set aside an emergency fund, and consider tax strategies to safeguard your financial future.
During this show, we’re going to look at why many Americans may be afraid of retirement and strategies you can use to help avoid that fear.
Confused about whether to roll over your 401(k) or keep it where it is? In this episode, we break down the pros and cons of both options. Learn about tax implications, investment choices, and how to make the best decision for your financial future.
In this episode, we'll delve into the common retirement regrets people experience and provide practical strategies to avoid them. Discover how to set realistic financial goals, diversify your investments, and plan for unexpected expenses to ensure a fulfilling and worry-free retirement.
Retirement can be a golden chapter, but many people look back with financial regrets. In this episode, we dive into common pitfalls that can derail your retirement dreams. From underestimating healthcare costs to regretting impulsive purchases, we'll uncover the most frequent financial missteps and provide actionable advice to avoid them. By the end, you'll have a clear roadmap to a worry-free retirement.
As the leaves change and the air cools, it's time to give your finances a seasonal refresh. In this episode, we'll discuss essential steps to prepare your budget for fall expenses, including spending plans, paying down debt, financial planning and more.
During this show, we’ll first consider whether age 95 is still a good target age to build a retirement strategy around before considering some steps to prepare your finances for retirement.
During this episode, we’re going to highlight the steps you should take each year as part of your 10-year retirement checklist.
On this show, we’ll discuss retirement magic numbers and what it would mean to have two million dollars and five hundred thousand dollars saved for retirement.
During this show, we’ll discuss the potential fallout if the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 is allowed to expire at the end of 2025. We’ll also highlight limiting taxes on retirement withdrawals.
In this episode, we’ll consider what you should do if your 401(k) match is cut. We’ll also examine 401(k) alternatives.
During this show, we’ll discuss Social Security survivor benefits and your ideal filing age.
During this show, we’ll highlight short-term, medium-term, and long-term financial horizons and how to utilize each of them.
During this episode, we’ll highlight common retirement expenses that many people don’t adequately prepare for. We’ll also discuss wealth plans.
During this episode, we’re going to discuss the silver tsunami — the millions of baby boomers who will be retiring now through 2027 — and what they can do to better prepare.
During this episode, we’ll discuss some of the things you should do if you become the executor of an estate.
In this episode Michael gives us the story of his own personal and financial journey with it's valuable lessons to help all of us on the road to financial freedom.
During this show, we’re going to discuss essential steps that can provide rainy day financial protection.
During this show, we’ll discuss retirement steps to take when you’re 10 years, five years, and one year from retirement.
On this episode, we break down some of the most important things about RMDs as well as what IRA beneficiaries should be aware of when it comes to them.
During this show, we’re going to break down the New Generation Retirement system and how it can provide value and guidance on the road to retirement.
During today’s show, we’re going to consider what data and historical trends suggest the impact of the 2024 presidential election will be on your finances.
During this episode, we’re going to get deep into the details about Roth IRAs and Roth IRA conversions.
We discuss the importance of estate and legacy planning for you and your family. It's important to have the right documents and know where they are in order to keep family harmony.
We are coming to you from Nashville Tennessee this week! Feeling lost in the financial maze? Ditch the stress and unlock your wealth potential. This show explores how a financial advisor can be your secret weapon in reaching your financial dreams.
On this episode, we’ll discuss some simple but powerful financial steps you can take at ages 50 and 65.
During this episode, we’ll examine and discuss retirement steps that are unique to women.
During this episode, we’re going to examine some potential end of year financial to do’s.
During this episode, we’re going to discuss some of the economic factors and changes coming in 2024.
In this episode we welcome special guest Michael Binger, president of Gradient Investments. We discuss what happened with investments, stocks and the markets this year and then look at the forecast for next year, as well as your options for a balanced portfolio and ways to possibly minimize your risk.
On this episode, we’ll highlight and discuss year-end steps for your financial strategy and taxes.
In this episode we talk about options to minimize your tax burden and tax free options for income in retirement.
During this show, we’re going to examine clear steps people can take to avoid letting their dream retirement stories turn into retirement horror stories.
During this episode, we’ll do a deep dive into Social Security, highlighting your options, so you can bolster your retirement strategy.
During this show, we’ll discuss transferring your wealth to your children and the baby boomer generation’s great wealth transfer.
During this episode, we’ll have a little Halloween-themed fun while discussing common financial mistakes and how to avoid them.
During this episode, we’re going to discuss how much you may need to have saved as you approach your planned retirement age.
In this episode we talk more about the financial planning aspect of interest rates and inflation, as well as possible ways to help improve your retirement plan.
During this episode, we’re going to discuss some of the steps you can take to get out of debt.
During this episode, we examine various types of retirement income and what kind of taxes each of them may be subject to.
During this episode, we’re going to discuss key financial steps designed specifically for women.
In this episode we talk what annuities are, there benefits and drawback, and whether they may be a good fit for your financial strategy.
During this show, we’re going to discuss retirement steps you may want to take when you’re at three unique moments: 10 years away from retirement, five years away from retirement, and one year away from retirement.
In this episode, we’re going to take a closer look at inflation; what it is, how it happens, what can be done to control it and how it affects consumers.
During this episode, we’ll discuss harnessing the power of Social Security, which, among other things, means understanding the full retirement age, how when you file can affect your benefit payment, and how Social Security is only a piece of a broad financial strategy.
During this episode, we discuss what annuities are, their benefits, drawbacks, and whether they may be a good fit for your financial strategy.
During this show, we’ll look at some of the common retirement expenses that many people fail to adequately prepare for before they retire. We’ll conclude the show by looking at wealth plans.
On this show, we’re going to look at the future of retirement, both in terms of how it may look a handful of years from now and how it may look several decades in the future.
During this episode, we’re going to examine some of the key things you should know as you move closer to your retirement.
In this episode we welcome special guest Donnie Chaffin of Jackie Cooper Tint and Electronics to talk about local business and more.
In this episode we welcome special guest Jake Merrick of the Jake Merrick Show on 96.9 FM. We discuss the oil industry and other hot topics in Oklahoma.
There's a lot happening in the world of finance right now that can affect your bottom line and your retirement accounts. In this episode we talk about what you need to be aware of.
In this show we look at financial steps for those who are in the last inning or two of their careers as well as for those who are still financial rookies.
During this show, we’ll look at recent news from the Social Security trustees’ report before shifting into a more general conversation about Social Security.
In this show, we highlight some of the financial resources available to people when they turn 50 and 65.
During this show, we’re going to highlight and discuss some of the lesser known elements of retiring early.
During this show, we’re going to highlight some potential tax breaks for those older than 50 as well as ways older people may be able to reduce their taxes in retirement.
During this episode we’re going to discuss the importance of enhanced planning in relation to finances, taxes, and family life. This includes estate planning, legacy planning and more.
During this show, we’ll look at various ways you may be able to save money when it comes time to take your retirement withdrawals.
This week we examine the FIRE, or Financial Independence, Retire Early, movement as well as how you can stay active during retirement.
Michael and Tony go over a few different retirement options and how choosing one may better fit your lifestyle over another.
During today’s episode we’re going to discuss what a bear market is and what you can do to help deal with a down market.
During this episode, we’re going to discuss some retirement tips for the coming year that may have you looking ahead to your post-work life with more confidence.
In this episode we record live in Las Vegas, and what a better place to talk about financial risk. We talk about having a long-term financial plan and strategies to achieve that plan.
During this episode, we’re going to shine a light on some of the steps you can take to get out of debt.
During this episode, we’re going to take a deep dive into long-term care insurance — what it is, how important it is, and what it may cost.
During this show, we’re going to discuss designing a financial to do list with the goal of crossing everything on that list off before the end of the year.
How do you save for retirement? How can you make sure you are taking advantage of all your options? We talk about these things and more during this episode.
During this episode, we’re going to discuss two essential 401(k) issues: the importance of vesting and steps you can take to max your 401(k) out.
During this ghoulishly glorious episode, we’ll thrill you and chill you with spookily fun information about financial mistakes that could turn your strategy into a haunted house.
Are your investments truly balanced and diversified? What do you do when markets and bonds are down? We talk about possible solutions to these and other investment issues.
During today’s episode, we’re going to take a closer look at some of the lesser discussed elements that are essential to a happy and fulfilling retirement.
During this episode, we’ll take a high-level look at the recently signed into law Inflation Reduction Act and its potential impact on Medicare recipients and taxpayers.
During this episode, we’ll examine some of the most commonly overlooked financial strategy steps and what you can do to avoid them.
During this show, we’ll examine the five types of insurance you’ll likely want to include in your financial strategy.
During this episode, we’re going to discuss and analyze some of the most common signs that you’re ready to retire.
During today’s show, we’re going to take a close look at various types of retirement income and how each of them may be taxed.
During this episode, we’ll look at what annuities are, there plusses and minuses, and whether they’re a good fit for your financial strategy.
The possibility of a coming bear market has been in the news a lot lately, so during today’s episode we’re going to discuss what a bear market is and what you can do to help prepare yourself — and your assets — for one.
Many experienced financial professionals are predicting that we’ll soon be confronted with a recession. On today’s show, we’re going to offer up some tips that may help recession-proof your retirement.
From rising inflation and interest rates to market volatility and rumors of recession, Michael tackles the tough financial landscape with insights and strategies.
During this episode, we’re going to examine the fallout of the Fed’s recent rate increase and what it means for not only the economy but to the average person.
During this episode, we’re going to discuss the current bout of market volatility and how you can cut out emotions and stick to your financial strategy.
During this episode, we’re going to examine how you may be able to increase your Social Security payment as well as what you should know about 401(k) early withdrawal penalties.
During today’s episode, we’re going to look at two critical subjects: establishing a charitable trust and retirement wealth gaps.
During this episode, we’re going to closely examine the four phases of retirement and in the final segment we’ll discuss working part-time in retirement.
During this episode, we’re going to look at some of the ways the semi-retired — rather than the fully retired — lifestyle may be a step for not only your financial strategy but for your physical and emotional well-being.
During this episode, we’re going to first address some of the most common myths about Social Security before pivoting to a discussion about some of the lesser known services that Social Security provides.
In this episode Michael talks about coming up with a financial plan to fit your specific needs
During this episode, we’re going to look at tax issues to be aware of in 2022 as well as broader tax insights that apply anytime.
In this episode Michael talks about how to plan ahead for the next year with your finances.
During this episode, we’re going to highlight and discuss some of the things you can do to help you feel that your retirement is not only financially secure but is also full of happiness.
When the economy is in flux, you may be able to reduce your stress and increase your peace of mind by following steps that may position you to better protect your finances so you can weather the conditions.
During this episode, we’re going to discuss some of the steps you can take right now to purchase everything on your gift-buying list without wrecking your budget and potentially damaging your retirement.
During this episode, we’re first going to look at how the recently passed infrastructure bill may have benefits for retirees and older Americans. In the final two segments, we’ll highlight some potentially wise financial new year’s resolutions for 2022.
During this episode, we’re going to discuss some of the things you may have sitting in your home that your kids and grandkids may want to take off your hands.
During this show, we’re going to examine some of the common financial follies that befall many Americans. In our final segment, we’ll shift gears a bit and look into some common retirement follies.
During this episode, we’re going to examine some of the financial changes coming to Medicare in 2021, as well as some general insights and advice into this essential retirement tool.
This episode will detail some of the perfect fall trips that retirees can enjoy on their schedule and within their budget.
During this show, we’re going to discuss some of the important things you should consider if you’re buying or selling a home in today’s red-hot marketplace.
During this show, we’re going to discuss some of they key ways that retirement has changed during the last 25 years. In the final segment, we’ll also consider how retirement may change in the next 10 years.
During this show, we’ll examine some of the financial resources and possibilities that are available to you at the very important ages of 50 and 65.
During today’s show, we’ll highlight the numerous ways you may be able to save money on healthcare while still ensuring that you’re receiving all the services you need.
On this episode, we examine the 10 potentially critical things you need to know if you’re considering early retirement.
During this episode, we’re going to discuss some of the financial insights and lessons you’ve learned during your life and how you can put that information to work helping your kids and grandkids make their own financial strategies stronger.
During this episode, we’re going to examine some of the common myths about retirement and Social Security and why knowing the difference between myth and reality is important for your financial strategy. To add a little fun, we’ll also share some of our favorite historical myths.
Inflation is a concern for some people in retirement. Let’s discuss the current inflation news and then examine ways you can build a budget and a retirement strategy that may offer some degree of protection against inflation.
During this episode, we’re going to discuss how you can grow the kind of financial garden that provides consistent retirement income while also stabilizing your finances long before you retire.
We examine some of the most significant elements of the Biden tax plan proposal and what some of its details may mean for your financial strategy in both the near term and the long term.
During this episode, we’re going to discuss the benefits of buying a home, the benefits of not buying a home, and the benefits of being a long-term renter.
During this episode, we’re going to illuminate some potentially surprising facts and figures about retirement. And, to make things a little more fun, we’re going to intersperse some fascinating facts about some of our most beloved movies.
During this episode, we’re going to discuss some of the critical questions you should ask a financial services professional you’re considering working with. In our final segment, will look at some steps you can take if your retirement date is very close.
During today’s episode, we’re going to analyze what steps you should take if 2021 (or a year shortly thereafter) is your year to retire.
During this episode, we’ll discuss some potential tax breaks for people who are in their 50s and 60s, the self-employed, and tax breaks that anyone can take advantage of.
During this episode, we discuss smart financial decisions during three critical chapters of your life: your 20s and 30s, your 50s, and during your retirement.
During this episode, we’re going to really break down 401(k) so that listeners can gain a deeper understanding of their importance. We’ll also discuss way to maximize your 401(k).
During today’s episode, we’re going to discuss financial new year’s resolutions that may help you enjoy more financial security in 2021, along with a fun twist at the end of the show.
During today’s episode, we’re going to look at ways you can adjust your financial strategy and strategies to make 2021 a great year. In the final segment, we’ll discuss what snowbirds need to do before they head off for warmer climates.
Do you ever feel like you need a guide to help navigate your retirement? Retirement can be scary, but it doesn't have to be! Listen in to learn more about creating a RELIABLE and LONG-TERM retirement and download your COMPLIMENTARY Retirement Income Toolkit.
During this episode, we’re going to look at some of the common financial fears that people nearing retirement often experience and how they can be overcome. In the final segment, we’ll discuss how you can develop a savings target for retirement.
During this episode, we’ll examine eight scenarios when temporarily pausing saving for retirement may make broader financial sense.
During this episode, we’ll discuss how you may be able to use Black Friday to your advantage when it comes to buying big-ticket items and holiday gifts. We’ll also examine ways you can better prepare your finances for the holidays.
During our episode today, we’re going to discuss specific steps you can take in each of the last five years before retirement to better position yourself to enjoy the rewarding retirement you’ve worked so hard towards.
Legacy planning is a must, but what is it and how do you get started? On todays show Rob and Lori give you the information you need to get started with your own financial legacy plan and talk about just how important this is for everyone.
During this episode, we’re going to discuss the ways you can make some small but powerful changes to your financial habits. Combining a few of these steps could have a profound impact on your finances.
Every project requires the correct tools. When building your financial future, you need the right tools to evaluate and analysis your strategy. This episode examines some potential options.
During this show, we’ll be discussing developing a strategy for retirement after a divorce. Divorce is a reality for millions of Americans, and there are steps you can take that could make a big difference when it comes to your financial well-being.
During this episode, we’ll discuss various retirement savings tools that might be a good fit for your overall financial strategy, whether you work for someone else, own a small business, or are otherwise self-employed.
Many people have come across financial myths, whether they’re about a current financial situation or something more general like Social Security, Medicare, or retirement. This episode will help listeners cut through the noise and separate myth from reality.
Do you ever feel like you need a guide to help navigate your retirement? Retirement can be scary, but it doesn't have to be! Listen in to learn more about creating a RELIABLE and LONG-TERM retirement and download your COMPLIMENTARY Retirement Income Toolkit.
During this episode, we’ll be taking a close look at annuities to define exactly what they are, how they work, how much they cost and how to determine if they may fit your overall financial strategy. While an annuity may be able to provide lifetime income, there’s plenty of nuance, as well as risks, that you should be aware of.
For many people, going through the legacy planning process can seem overwhelming. But by being proactive, and keeping the process simple, you can ensure that your assets are distributed in the manner that you envision.
In times of tremendous economic upheaval, you can take steps to tighten your budget and reduce your monthly bills. At the same time, there are also measures you can take right now to better protect your retirement.
Kiplinger and Personal Capital recently teamed up on a poll to see how Americans react to market volatility. How do you stack up?
With millions of Americans currently working from home as the world deals with the coronavirus pandemic, it’s a good time to take control of our finances to better prepare for a strong financial future.
The coronavirus disease has dominated the news cycle for the past few weeks and it’s not going away. Instead of letting that get you down, here are some things you can do to respond and prepare your retirement strategy.
It's a strange new world out there with the Coronavirus threat and in this episode Michael looks at the effect on the markets and how do deal with the volatility.
Tax season is a time of year when everyone is thinking about their finances. You can use it to help you make better decisions, not just this year but into the future.
What happens if you leave a job or are considering rolling your 401(k) over? Today we tackle this question and more regarding your 401(k) or 403(b).
A podcast examining the disconnects between workers and employers when it comes to phased retirement options. How long do workers expect to work? Do companies have programs in place to help workers transition into retirement and also avoid internal transitional chaos?
This episode looks at some ways to improve your efficiency and make the most of the time you spend managing your money. Most of us want to be better at managing our money. But it can feel like a time-consuming effort. Budgeting, credit monitoring and more all take time.
It can be a dangerous choice to make assumptions when it comes to money, retirement and investing. This episode looks at some false retirement assumptions as well as some things you may assume you know about what happens when the Federal Reserve cuts interest rates.
Smishing is a new challenge and attack on your financial information. Wishing without action can be a challenge and detriment to your financial future. This episode looks at each of these and provides some potential actions you may take to keep your financial future secure.
In this episode Michael gives us the basics of investing and how to make smart and wise investment decisions based on your personal needs and situation.
401(k) plans are one of the most common retirement products. But what are they really? What are some common mistakes to avoid? And what even is a 403(b) and how is it different?! This episode examines the ins and outs of 401(k)s.
Not everyone is prepared for retirement. How will you make up the difference? Do you have a plan? This episode looks at potential options, tips and tricks to address being unprepared.
What are some basics of life insurance? Is life insurance something that should be considered as a part of your financial or retirement strategy?
Data breaches are all too common. Capital One, Equifax and even your favorite restaurant may have been hacked. What can you do to protect your important information?
Do you ever feel like you need a guide to help navigate your retirement? Retirement can be scary, but it doesn't have to be! Listen in to learn more about creating a RELIABLE and LONG-TERM retirement and download your COMPLIMENTARY Retirement Income Toolkit.
Do you ever feel like you need a guide to help navigate your retirement? Retirement can be scary, but it doesn't have to be! Listen in to learn more about creating a RELIABLE and LONG-TERM retirement and download your COMPLIMENTARY Retirement Income Toolkit.
How do millennials feel about retirement? What are some of their perceptions? How prepared are they for retirement?
Pensions are disappearing. What can you do to make sure that you have adequate monthly income in retirement? Listen to this podcast to learn more about retirement preparation
This episode focuses on two topics have recently been in the news Phone Call Scams and Tariffs. Do you know as much as you should about either topic?
This episode examines the connection between your emotions and your financial life. Looking at tips and options to keep your finances safe from your emotional rollercoaster.
Defining what a Bear Market is and addressing the stages and causes. Also, strategies designed to help keep your retirement safe from a bear market.
This episode examines some of the biggest dangers of putting off creating a financial strategy for retirement, including budgeting, long-term care and sharing your financial story with your beneficiaries.
This episode looks at two different sets of the seven deadly sins of retirement planning. How many are you guilty of? We talk about what they are and how to avoid them.
Your job is the engine of your wealth accumulation machine. This episode looks at ways to increase your happiness at work, to improve your productivity at work. And what to do with the pay increase that comes from being a happy and productive worker.
Do you ever feel like you need a guide to help navigate your retirement? Retirement can be scary, but it doesn't have to be! Listen in to learn more about creating a RELIABLE and LONG-TERM retirement and download your COMPLIMENTARY Retirement Income Toolkit.
Do you ever feel like you need a guide to help navigate your retirement? Retirement can be scary, but it doesn't have to be! Listen in to learn more about creating a RELIABLE and LONG-TERM retirement and download your COMPLIMENTARY Retirement Income Toolkit.
Looking at the three stages of life and how retirement is its own race, not the finish line.
Not getting around to legacy planning can have long-term ramifications. We are going to look at some celebrities who made legacy planning mistakes that had long-term ramifications for their heirs.
Do you ever feel like you need a guide to help navigate your retirement? Retirement can be scary, but it doesn't have to be! Listen in to learn more about creating a RELIABLE and LONG-TERM retirement and download your COMPLIMENTARY Retirement Income Toolkit.
Today we are talking about IRA and 401k rollovers. We’ll walk you through a number of precautions that you should take to avoid pitfalls and excessive penalties, taxes and fees.
Annuities can be confusing because they have many different options and uses. So today, we’re going to help simplify annuities and give you the pros and the cons.
Do you ever feel like you need a guide to help navigate your retirement? Retirement can be scary, but it doesn't have to be! Listen in to learn more about creating a RELIABLE and LONG-TERM retirement and download your COMPLIMENTARY Retirement Income Toolkit.
Do you ever feel like you need a guide to help navigate your retirement? Retirement can be scary, but it doesn't have to be! Listen in to learn more about creating a RELIABLE and LONG-TERM retirement and download your COMPLIMENTARY Retirement Income Toolkit.