Dime After Dime

19. How to Find Your Financial Freedom Number

Many investors think about a “financial freedom number,” but defining that number involves more than a simple calculation. In this episode of Dime After Dime, Tony Stich talks with Julie Rich about what it means to reach financial independence and how that number may vary based on individual circumstances. They discuss a basic framework for estimating a starting point, along with the limitations of relying on simplified calculations alone. Julie outlines several key factors that may influence long-term planning, including healthcare costs, inflation, taxes, life expectancy, and market assumptions. The conversation also explores how conservative projections, stress testing, and ongoing adjustments may help provide a more realistic view of financial readiness. They also review practical considerations for individuals who may be behind their target, including potential tradeoffs between spending, saving, and retirement timing. The episode highlights the importance of ongoing planning and adapting to life changes to help maintain financial independence over time. Resources: 3:15 - “Research has shown that the more you plan, the more confident and happy you are in retirement.” https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5529398/ 3:59 -  “So, a couple age 65 statistics show that at least one of them will live until 93 years old.” https://www.benefora.org/articles/life-expectancy-social-security 4:07 - “A couple on average will spend about $300,000 on healthcare costs during retirement, and that doesn't even include long-term care.” https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/wealth-management-insights/how-to-prepare-for-health-care-costs-in-retirement 8:02 - “So if we're inflating healthcare costs at 6% a year, which is the industry norm, that number by the time you need it is a very large number.” https://401kspecialistmag.com/health-insurance-costs-anticipated-to-surpass-18k-in-2026/ 8:30 - “The historical inflation, general inflation is about 3%.” https://realinvestmentadvice.com/resources/blog/inflation-impact-on-retirement/ 11:37 - “I read some research that being smart about what kind of account you're taking money from can save you up to 15% on taxes over the course of your life.” https://www.fidelity.com/viewpoints/retirement/tax-savvy-withdrawals Added Disclosures: The strategies and concepts discussed in this episode are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute personalized financial, tax, or investment advice. The use of financial planning software, regardless of sophistication, and retirement planning projections do not guarantee outcomes; actual results will vary based on market performance, spending, health events, and changes in tax law. Please consult a qualified financial professional before making any financial decisions. The content on this page and/or video is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. Specifically, the content is intended to provide education and tools for individuals looking to handle their retirement planning on their own. Should you need personalized investment advice, you should consult with a registered investment adviser. Any communications on this page with other individuals that are not associated with Moran Wealth Management, LLC are done voluntarily by users and are unsupervised and unaffiliated with Moran Wealth Management, LLC and Moran Wealth Management, LLC has no responsibility or liability over any discussions or advice that may be given. Moran Wealth Management, LLC is a registered investment adviser and can provide investment advice. If you are interested in Moran Wealth Management, LLC’s advisory services, you can contact us at 239-920-4440 or info@moranwm.com. For disclosures, visit: https://www.moranwm.com/disclosures [https://www.moranwm.com/disclosures] This communication may contain

18. The Truth About AI in Wealth Management: Tool or Trap?

As artificial intelligence becomes more accessible, investors are increasingly exploring how it can support their financial decisions. In this episode, Tony Stich speaks with Patrick Moran about the role AI may play in the investment process. The discussion covers how AI can assist in organizing and explaining financial information, along with its limitations, particularly when applied to predictions, complex planning, and decisions that require personal context. They also outline questions investors may wish to consider when evaluating AI tools and advisory firms that incorporate them, including how data is handled, how outputs are generated, and whether technology is enhancing or replacing personalized service. The conversation encourages listeners to take a thoughtful and informed approach when incorporating AI into their financial lives. This episode is intended to provide general educational information to help individuals make more informed decisions when evaluating financial technology. It is not intended as personalized investment advice or a recommendation to use any specific tool or service. The content on this page and/or video is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. Specifically, the content is intended to provide education and tools for individuals looking to handle their retirement planning on their own. Should you need personalized investment advice, you should consult with a registered investment adviser. Any communications on this page with other individuals that are not associated with Moran Wealth Management, LLC are done voluntarily by users and are unsupervised and unaffiliated with Moran Wealth Management, LLC and Moran Wealth Management, LLC has no responsibility or liability over any discussions or advice that may be given. Moran Wealth Management, LLC is a registered investment adviser and can provide investment advice. If you are interested in Moran Wealth Management, LLC’s advisory services, you can contact us at 239-920-4440 or info@moranwm.com. For disclosures, visit: https://www.moranwm.com/disclosures [https://www.moranwm.com/disclosures] This communication may contain testimonials of Moran Wealth Management’s clients. These testimonials reflect the real-life experiences and opinions of these customers. However, these experiences are personal to them and are not necessarily representative of all clients’ experiences. Moran Wealth Management® makes no claim, and you should not assume, that all clients will have the same experiences. Your individual results will vary. The views and opinions contained in the testimonials belong solely to the individual client and do not reflect our views and opinions. Clients are not paid or otherwise compensated for their testimonials.

17. Understanding the Role of Leverage in a Financial Plan

Leverage is often viewed cautiously, and while it can be a useful financial tool in certain situations, it is not appropriate for all investors and involves meaningful risks. In this episode of Dime After Dime, Tony Stich speaks with Julie Rich about what leverage means in the context of financial planning for both individual and high-net-worth investors. They discuss several common forms of leverage in this episode! Leverage, including securities-based lending, margin, and home equity borrowing, involves significant risks and is not appropriate for all investors. Borrowing against investment assets may increase losses, result in margin calls, and require the forced sale of securities at unfavorable times. Interest rates and loan terms may change, increasing borrowing costs over time. Using leverage as a source of liquidity or as an alternative to holding cash reserves may reduce financial flexibility and expose investors to market risk during periods of volatility. Any examples discussed are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent recommendations. Investors should carefully evaluate their financial situation, risk tolerance, and objectives and consult with a qualified financial professional before implementing any leverage strategy. These approaches involve additional risks, including the potential for market declines and margin calls, and may not provide the same stability or accessibility as traditional cash reserves. The content on this page and/or video is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. Specifically, the content is intended to provide education and tools for individuals looking to handle their retirement planning on their own. Should you need personalized investment advice, you should consult with a registered investment adviser. Any communications on this page with other individuals that are not associated with Moran Wealth Management, LLC are done voluntarily by users and are unsupervised and unaffiliated with Moran Wealth Management, LLC and Moran Wealth Management, LLC has no responsibility or liability over any discussions or advice that may be given. Moran Wealth Management, LLC is a registered investment adviser and can provide investment advice. If you are interested in Moran Wealth Management, LLC’s advisory services, you can contact us at 239-920-4440 or info@moranwm.com. For disclosures, visit: https://www.moranwm.com/disclosures [https://www.moranwm.com/disclosures] This communication may contain testimonials of Moran Wealth Management’s clients. These testimonials reflect the real-life experiences and opinions of these customers. However, these experiences are personal to them and are not necessarily representative of all clients’ experiences. Moran Wealth Management® makes no claim, and you should not assume, that all clients will have the same experiences. Your individual results will vary. The views and opinions contained in the testimonials belong solely to the individual client and do not reflect our views and opinions. Clients are not paid or otherwise compensated for their testimonials. [Resources] 1:52 - “I looked up on the FINRA website today, there's over $1 trillion worth of margin, which is just one type of leverage we're going to be talking about today in the country.” https://www.finra.org/rules-guidance/key-topics/margin-accounts/margin-statistics [https://www.finra.org/rules-guidance/key-topics/margin-accounts/margin-statistics] 2:14 - “Also UBS, I did some research, and UBS actually states that 42% of investors, high net worth investors that use leverage actually use it not to speculate, but to improve their liquidity situation.” https://www.ubs.com/us/en/wealth-management/insights/market-news/article.3215635.html [https://www.ubs.com/us/en/wealth-management/insights/market-news/article.3215635.html]

16. Looking Beyond Titles: How to Choose a Wealth Advisor

Finding the right financial advisor involves more than reviewing past performance, it starts with asking thoughtful questions and understanding how advice is delivered. In this episode, Tony Stich speaks with Don Drury about factors investors may consider when evaluating a financial professional. The discussion covers differences between brokerage and advisory relationships, including fiduciary versus suitability standards, as well as how compensation structures can influence the services provided. They also outline questions investors may wish to ask during the selection process, along with considerations such as advisor experience, communication style, and transparency around fees and services. The conversation highlights common industry practices and encourages listeners to take an active role in understanding their financial relationships. This episode is intended to provide general educational information to help individuals make more informed decisions when evaluating financial professionals. It is not intended as personalized investment advice or a recommendation to hire or retain any specific advisor. The content on this page and/or video is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. This content does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Specifically, the content is intended to provide education and tools for individuals evaluating financial professionals and planning decisions. Should you need personalized investment advice, you should consult with a registered investment adviser. Any communications on this page with other individuals that are not associated with Moran Wealth Management, LLC are done voluntarily by users and are unsupervised and unaffiliated with Moran Wealth Management, LLC and Moran Wealth Management, LLC has no responsibility or liability over any discussions or advice that may be given. Moran Wealth Management, LLC is a registered investment adviser and can provide investment advice. If you are interested in Moran Wealth Management, LLC’s advisory services, you can contact us at 239-920-4440 or info@moranwm.com. For disclosures, visit: https://www.moranwm.com/disclosures [https://www.moranwm.com/disclosures] This communication may contain testimonials of Moran Wealth Management’s clients. These testimonials reflect the real-life experiences and opinions of these customers. However, these experiences are personal to them and are not necessarily representative of all clients’ experiences. Moran Wealth Management® makes no claim, and you should not assume that all clients will have the same experiences. Your individual results will vary. The views and opinions contained in the testimonials belong solely to the individual client and do not reflect our views and opinions. Clients are not paid or otherwise compensated for their testimonials.

15. Tax Planning for Investors in Their 40s and 50s

Many investors focus primarily on investment returns, but taxes can also play an important role in long-term financial planning.  In this episode, Anthony Stich speaks with Michael Mongin, CPWA® about planning considerations investors in their 40s and 50s may want to evaluate as they approach retirement. The discussion covers how earlier planning can help investors better understand potential tax implications before major financial decisions are made. They explore topics such as tax-loss harvesting, asset location, Roth conversions, and required minimum distributions, along with the value of coordinating with financial and tax professionals when making significant financial moves. Mike also shares insights from more than three decades of industry experience and a key lesson he wishes he had learned earlier in his career. — Moran Wealth Management® does not provide tax or legal advice. Any tax or legal information provided is general in nature and should not be construed as advice. You should consult your tax and legal professionals regarding your specific situation. All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. International and emerging markets investing involves additional risks, including currency fluctuations, political and regulatory risk, and differences in accounting and reporting standards. Any opinions are as of the date of the content and are subject to change without notice. The content on this page and/or video is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. Specifically, the content is intended to provide education and tools for individuals looking to handle their retirement planning on their own. Should you need personalized investment advice, you should consult with a registered investment adviser. Any communications on this page with other individuals that are not associated with Moran Wealth Management, LLC are done voluntarily by users and are unsupervised and unaffiliated with Moran Wealth Management, LLC and Moran Wealth Management, LLC has no responsibility or liability over any discussions or advice that may be given. Moran Wealth Management, LLC is a registered investment adviser and can provide investment advice. If you are interested in Moran Wealth Management, LLC’s advisory services, you can contact us at 239-920-4440 or info@moranwm.com. For disclosures, visit: https://www.moranwm.com/disclosures [https://www.moranwm.com/disclosures] This communication may contain testimonials of Moran Wealth Management’s clients. These testimonials reflect the real-life experiences and opinions of these customers. However, these experiences are personal to them and are not necessarily representative of all clients’ experiences. Moran Wealth Management® makes no claim, and you should not assume, that all clients will have the same experiences. Your individual results will vary. The views and opinions contained in the testimonials belong solely to the individual client and do not reflect our views and opinions. Clients are not paid or otherwise compensated for their testimonials.