Navigate the emotional and financial transitions of empty nest and pre-retirement life with Paul Fenner on this episode of Emotional Balance Sheet. Discover expert insights on relationship dynamics, divorce trends, tax planning, new deductions, Roth conversions, maximizing after-tax returns, and the real impact of recent tax law changes as you prepare for retirement. Whether you're building a healthcare bridge, deciding when to claim Social Security, or planning your next move, this episode delivers actionable strategies for families facing one of the most underrated—and pivotal—stages of life. Tune in to empower your next chapter with confidence and clarity.

Navigate the challenges of the “building years” as Paul Fenner dives into the financial and emotional realities of parenting teens, planning for college, and managing retirement savings in this episode of Emotional Balance Sheet. Discover key takeaways from the “Big Beautiful Bill,” including updated tax deductions, retirement catch-up contributions, SALT changes, and smart strategies for balancing personal and financial priorities. Perfect for parents and families seeking practical advice on tax planning, wealth management, and making the most of life’s busy seasons. Listen now for actionable insights and expert tips to keep your emotional and financial balance in check.

Navigate the complexities of family financial planning with Paul Fenner in this episode of the Emotional Balance Sheet podcast. Explore the latest updates from the “one big beautiful bill,” including changes to tax deductions, child tax credits, dependent care FSAs, Trump accounts, and state-specific planning tips for parents in their career and family growth stage. Packed with practical advice for maximizing savings and minimizing tax liability, this episode is essential listening for busy families seeking financial harmony. Listen in for actionable strategies and expert insights on building a secure financial future for you and your loved ones.

Unlock the essential insights from the latest "Emotional Balance Sheet" episode as Paul Fenner breaks down the impact of the “Big Beautiful Bill” on young adults, students, and parents. Discover how the new bill affects marginal tax rates, deductions for tips, overtime, and vehicle interest, plus changes to student loan rules and home energy credits. Whether you're just getting started with your finances or guiding your kids, this episode offers practical tips, pros and cons, and actionable planning strategies to make the most of current tax law changes. Listen now for expert analysis and real-life financial advice tailored for every stage of life!

Paul Fenner and guest Dr. Jennifer Dragonette dive into why achieving major goals—like a big promotion or retirement—rarely brings long-term happiness. Drawing from real-life examples and expert insights, they explore how to shift from a goal-oriented mindset to one rooted in values, growth, and daily “pride practices.” Perfect for anyone seeking emotional well-being, greater satisfaction, and healthier motivation in both life and finances.

Protect yourself from tax scams in 2025! In this episode of Emotional Balance Sheet, Paul Fenner breaks down the latest IRS scam statistics, reveals how the IRS really contacts taxpayers, and shares actionable tips to avoid falling victim to phishing, smishing, and other financial scams. Discover the warning signs, learn what to do if you get a suspicious IRS notification, and stay up to date with the latest "Dirty Dozen" tax scams. Don’t miss these essential insights for safeguarding your finances this tax season!

Struggling to kickstart your financial planning? In this episode of the Emotional Balance Sheet podcast, host Paul Fenner shares real-life stories of busy parents facing the biggest financial planning killer—time. Discover why waiting can increase stress, how emotional triggers can spark action, and practical tips for setting purposeful financial and life goals, even in the busiest seasons. Don’t let another six months pass you by—learn how to anchor your goals today and avoid regret tomorrow. Perfect for parents and anyone feeling overwhelmed by their to-do list!

Discover why “just waiting” can hold you back—both financially and personally—in this thought-provoking episode of the Emotional Balance Sheet podcast with Paul Fenner. Explore how common worries about recessions, tariffs, and family milestones can lead to unnecessary anxiety, and learn why taking action may be the key to a more fulfilling life. Tune in for practical insights on overcoming fear, managing uncertainty, and embracing the present, rather than waiting for the next big thing. Perfect for anyone looking to achieve greater financial and emotional wellness.

Explore the Emotional Balance Sheet podcast as host Paul Fenner and therapist Dr. Jennifer Dragonette dive into the challenges of communication styles in relationships. Discover practical strategies for navigating internal vs. external processing, reducing conflict, and strengthening your connection with your partner, kids, and even your finances. Tune in to this insightful episode for expert advice on understanding introversion, extroversion, and the power of open, validating conversations in both personal and financial well-being. Perfect for couples, families, and anyone seeking healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

Discover the key to finding harmony between your career, finances, and personal life in Episode 83 of the Emotional Balance Sheet podcast. Financial advisor Paul Fenner reflects on work-life challenges, retirement planning, and the importance of taking action—not just gaining awareness—when it comes to life’s biggest transitions. Celebrating 200 episodes, Paul shares real-life stories and practical insights for anyone seeking purpose, fulfillment, and balance beyond the numbers. Tune in for expert advice, emotional support, and candid conversations to help you build a life you love.

Discover the real cost of "time debt" and how it impacts your work-life balance in this episode of Emotional Balance Sheet with host Paul Fenner. Drawing from personal experiences and insights from experts like Greg McKeown and Ann Laure Lecomte, Paul explores the concept of time anxiety - including current, future, and existential worries. Learn practical tips to define what "time well spent" means for you, reduce stress, and make intentional choices that prioritize family and happiness. Tune in for relatable stories, actionable advice, and a fresh perspective on managing your most precious resource: time.

Explore the realities of working with a financial advisor in this candid episode of the Emotional Balance Sheet podcast. Host Paul Fenner welcomes back Marisa Lonic to discuss her family's firsthand experience navigating financial planning, life transitions, and the emotional aspects of money management. Discover what to expect during the advisor onboarding process, the importance of vulnerability in both finances and parenting, and how professional coaching and trusted advice can transform your family's future. Perfect for busy parents, couples considering a financial advisor, or anyone seeking insightful tips on balancing careers, family, and personal growth. Listen now for actionable advice and real stories from those who've been through it.

Explore the intriguing concept of temporal diversification in the latest episode of the "Emotional Balance Sheet" podcast. Host Paul Fenner delves into how aligning assets with liabilities can mitigate the emotional impact of market fluctuations. Learn about the probability of positive returns across various timeframes, from monthly to 20-year periods, and discover strategies for long-term financial planning, whether it's for retirement, college savings, or buying a home. Tune in to understand how matching liabilities with diversified investments can lead to a more predictable financial future. Don't miss this insightful discussion on achieving financial stability amidst market uncertainties.