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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, Madison and Mike break down the sweeping One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a new tax law signed into effect in July.

At 887 pages, this legislation makes several provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) permanent while introducing new deductions, exemptions, and planning opportunities for individuals, families, and business owners.

Mike, a financial advisor, CFP® practitioner, and estate planning lawyer, explains what these changes mean in practical terms, from permanent lower tax brackets and expanded estate and gift tax exemptions to new deductions for tips, overtime, and auto loans. They also cover the introduction of the Child Savings Account, updates to 529 education plans, charitable giving incentives, and critical business provisions such as QBI deductions, bonus depreciation, and succession planning strategies.

While some updates are permanent, many incentives expire in 2028, making proactive planning essential. Whether you’re focused on your family’s future, your business, or your legacy, this episode highlights what you need to know, and the steps to consider now.

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In this episode of Not Just Numbers, Madison and Mike explore how our personal financial memories, whether shaped by market crashes, bull runs, or housing booms, can cloud judgment and influence investing decisions. Inspired by Jason Zweig’s Wall Street Journal article, they unpack the dangers of recency bias, the evolving role of cash in portfolios, and the importance of balancing historical perspective with real-time adaptability. Learn how to avoid overreacting to market noise, keep emotions in check, and build a strategy that stands the test of time. Then Mike and Maddie were joined by Joe Dillon, a nationally recognized divorce mediator and founder of Equitable Mediation. Drawing from his personal experience as a child of divorce and nearly two decades of professional expertise, Joe explains how mediation can save couples time, money, and emotional turmoil compared to traditional litigation. He shares real-life examples, common financial pitfalls, and practical tools for navigating complex decisions, especially when children are involved. Whether you’re facing divorce yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers a candid look at why a fair, informed, and child-focused approach can lead to better long-term outcomes.

Link to WSJ article: https://www.wsj.com/finance/investing/the-mistake-youre-making-in-todays-stock-marketwithout-even-knowing-it-8549894e

Equitable Mediation website: https://www.equitablemediation.com/

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In this episode of Not Just Numbers, Madison and Mike break down the upcoming 2025 changes to inherited IRA rules, and why beneficiaries and financial planners alike need to pay close attention. They discuss how the SECURE Act has already reshaped the way IRAs are passed on and what’s coming next as the IRS begins enforcing the 10-year distribution rule more strictly.

Mike explains who the new rules apply to, what beneficiaries need to prepare for, and how to navigate these changes in a way that aligns with your broader financial and estate planning goals. Whether you’ve inherited an IRA, expect to leave one behind, or simply want to stay ahead of retirement law updates, this episode offers clear, practical guidance on what’s at stake and how to plan ahead.

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In this episode, Madison and Mike break down “Mailed, Stolen, and Cashed,” a New York Times article by Ron Lieber that uncovers a disturbing trend: checks being stolen from the mail, altered, and cashed. Mike shares insight into the systemic issues that make this possible, how consumers are being left in the dark, and what to do if it happens to you. From financial literacy to institutional responsibility, this conversation sheds light on the hidden risks of mailing payments and what needs to change.

Link to NYT article: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/17/business/paychex-401k-rollover-checks.html

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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, Madison and Mike are joined by Certified Financial Planner Practitioner Maureen Donahue to unpack one of the most misunderstood, and potentially most valuable parts of employee compensation: equity. From stock options to RSUs, the team dives into what these benefits actually are, how to evaluate them, and what to consider when they're part of your compensation package. Whether you're a tech professional, executive, or just curious about how equity fits into your total compensation, this episode will help you make smarter, more informed financial decisions.

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In this episode of Not Just Numbers, Madison and Mike dive into one of the most common questions clients ask: How do I turn my retirement savings into reliable income? Mike explains the importance of timing Social Security benefits, strategies for minimizing lifetime taxes through smart withdrawal planning, and how to protect your portfolio against market downturns with proper asset allocation. Whether you’re approaching retirement or advising someone who is, this episode offers practical insights for creating a sustainable income plan.

Then, Madison and Mike sit down with Eric, the founder of The Garden Artisan, to explore how he turns outdoor spaces into personalized works of art. Eric shares how his passion for plants and design, combined with real-world experience, led him to start his own landscaping business. He talks about how outdoor design has shifted over the years, why listening to clients is key, and how he balances creativity with practical challenges like budgets and site limitations. It’s a conversation about craftsmanship, communication, and creating spaces people love to live in.

The Garden Artisan socials:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

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In this episode of Not Just Numbers, Madison and Mike break down a recent Wall Street Journal article that challenges the popular belief that moving to a no-income-tax state guarantees retirement savings. From skyrocketing insurance costs to hidden fees and property taxes, Mike explains why retirees need to think beyond just income tax rates when relocating. Learn how financial strategies like Roth conversions can help reduce state-level tax burdens, and why every move should come with a full cost-of-living analysis. Don’t pack your bags without tuning in first.

Link to WSJ article: https://www.wsj.com/personal-finance/taxes/retirement-low-tax-rate-states-move-cabdb31b

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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, Madison and Mike dive into a New York Times article about the mental and emotional challenges of retirement. They discuss why thoughtful preparation beyond finances is essential for a successful and fulfilling retirement, the importance of finding purpose after leaving the workforce, and how social engagement, hobbies, and volunteer work can significantly impact retirees' well-being. Mike shares real-world insights and emphasizes that retirement planning is about much more than just hitting a savings goal — it’s about designing a meaningful next chapter.

Link to NYT Article: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/26/well/mind/retirement-brain-mental-health-tips.html