Podcast
Planning Made Simple
Hosted by Planning Made Simple, created by Paul Durso · EN
Welcome to Planning Made Simple, where Paul Durso takes the stress out of important decisions. With a blend of wisdom and wit, Paul delivers insightful, easy-to-understand advice on everything you didn’t know you needed to know about the important aspects of life. Tune in weekly for conversations that are equal parts entertaining and educational, helping you navigate a complex world full of decisions—and maybe a laugh or two along the way!
26episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Will the Iran War Crush the Stock Market?
Mar 1900:16:54Tap to summarizeWar headlines can create fear and uncertainty in the stock market—but history shows markets often react emotionally before stabilizing.In this episode, we break down what happens to the stock market during major geopolitical events and why dividend-paying stocks have historically been a place investors turn during uncertain times.We also discuss oil price volatility, market reactions to global conflicts, and how investors can stay disciplined instead of reacting to headlines.If you’re worried about what war could mean for your investments, this episode will help you understand the bigger picture and why a long-term strategy matters.planningmadesimple.com
Transcribe →Why We Hold Losers in a Dividend Portfolio
Mar 1200:23:23Tap to summarizeSeeing red in your portfolio can trigger panic. But does a falling stock price mean you should sell?In this episode, we explore the emotional vs. logical sides of dividend investing and explain why investors sometimes hold positions others might call “losers.” We discuss dividend cuts, sector downturns, market panic, and real examples from past market cycles — including how patience and strategy can turn setbacks into long-term gains.If you want to become a smarter, more disciplined investor, this conversation will change how you view downturns and portfolio decisions.✔ Red doesn’t always mean bad✔ Dividend cuts vs. price drops require different responses✔ Sector downturns can create opportunity✔ Patience often beats panic selling✔ Today’s loser can be tomorrow’s top performerwww.planningmadesimple.com
Transcribe →Social Security Decisions Without the Stress
Mar 500:22:58Tap to summarizeSocial Security is one of the biggest retirement decisions you’ll ever make — yet many people feel overwhelmed trying to “maximize” it.In today’s episode, we simplify the conversation and focus on what actually matters: your retirement timeline, income needs, and financial stress levels.We discuss:✔️ Where Social Security fits in your retirement plan✔️ Whether it’s a foundation, supplement, or safety net✔️ The math behind claiming early vs. delaying benefits✔️ When delaying makes sense — and when it doesn’t✔️ How claiming timing affects stress on your portfolio✔️ Why retirement timing matters more than maximizing benefits✔️ Common emotional pitfalls that lead to poor decisions✔️ Why Social Security likely isn’t going awayThe biggest takeaway: the “best” time to claim Social Security is personal — and should align with your retirement income plan and lifestyle goals.If you want retirement confidence without stress, this episode is for you.www.planningmadesimple.com
Transcribe →Retirement Tax Blindspot
Feb 2600:25:27Tap to summarizeA large retirement balance can create a false sense of security. Many investors accumulate significant wealth inside tax-deferred accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s, but overlook the tax liability attached to those funds.In this episode, we explore the retirement tax blindspot — the reality that a portion of your largest retirement account may ultimately belong to the IRS. We discuss the “principal tax concern,” why qualified accounts can distort net-worth perceptions, and how tax exposure affects retirement income planning.You’ll learn:✔️ Why tax-deferred accounts aren’t fully yours✔️ How to measure your retirement tax exposure✔️ What happens when most assets sit in qualified accounts✔️ Why this issue often gets ignored in planning meetings✔️ How understanding taxes can reshape retirement strategyIf you want greater clarity, control, and confidence in retirement planning, this is a perspective you don’t want to miss.www.planningmadesimple.com
Transcribe →Vision Beyond Borders
Oct 31, 2024Tap to summarizeIn this conversation, Paul Durso interviews Denny Matthews, the president of Open Eyes, a global ministry that supports local leaders and missionaries with training and transportation. Denny shares his background, growing up in India in a family of Christian ministers, and his journey through the corporate world before transitioning to full-time ministry. He discusses the challenges of managing a global organization, balancing compassion with sound business practices, and the importance of integrity in mission work. He emphasizes Open Eyes' mission of not just preaching but also providing practical support like medical care and vocational training to transform communities. www.planningmadesimple.com
Transcribe →Leave a Legacy
Jan 26, 2019Tap to summarizeIf leaving a legacy is important to you, you’ll want to listen in. Dave Davies, Gift Planning Advisor for Wycliffe Bible Translators Foundation is here to show you how you can leave a legacy through charitable giving and estate planning. Learn trusted ways to support the work of Bible translation and help spread the Gospel message here and across the globe. You’ll even discover several income and tax benefits from various trusts and funds. The Wycliffe foundation believes that good Christian stewardship is at the heart of following Jesus and honoring him as Lord over your life.
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