Episodes

Nov. 3, 2025

Episode 325 - 3 Takeaways from the Art of Spending Money

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses key takeaways from Morgan Housel's book, The Art of Spending Money. He emphasizes the importance of balancing spending and saving, minimizing future regrets, cherishing memories over material possessions, and the value of independent thinking in financial decisions. The conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their financial choices and align them with their personal values. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net Find us on ...
Oct. 27, 2025

Episode 324 - Let's Get Real About Retirement

In this episode of Beer & Money, Ryan Burklo discusses the critical aspects of retirement planning, emphasizing the importance of understanding income risks and market volatility. He explores strategies for managing retirement funds, including the necessity of having a diversified approach with different buckets of money to ensure financial stability throughout retirement. The conversation also delves into the real risks of outliving one's money and presents alternative strategies to mitigate th...
Oct. 20, 2025

Episode 323 - Safeguard your Wealth: A conversation with Rob Bukacek

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Rob Bukacek delve into the intricacies of estate planning, focusing on a sample client with a $4 million estate. They discuss the importance of revocable living trusts, the avoidance of probate, and the management of assets to ensure they are passed on to heirs in a protected manner. The conversation also touches on the implications of spousal trusts, estate taxes, and strategies for safeguarding assets for future generations, emphasizing the ne...
Oct. 13, 2025

Episode 322 - The Rise of Alternative Strategies in Retirement Planning

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the integration of private equity and alternative assets into 401k plans. They explore the performance of endowments, the nature of private equity and private debt, and the associated risks. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding these investment options, the role of 401k plans in holding illiquid assets, and the need for informed decision-making to avoid chasing returns without proper knowledge. Chec...
Oct. 6, 2025

Episode 321 - Tax Loss Harvesting

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses tax loss harvesting, a strategy to reduce taxes by selling investments that have lost value. He explains the mechanics of tax loss harvesting, its benefits, and the importance of working with financial professionals to align tax strategies with personal financial goals. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net Find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@beerandmoney Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.quantifiedfinancial.com/...
Sept. 29, 2025

Episode 320 - Let's Talk About Interest Rates

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the recent interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, exploring the implications for savings accounts and debt financing. They emphasize the importance of understanding market-based returns and cash flow when making financial decisions. The conversation also touches on the significance of individualized financial planning and the need for professional guidance in navigating these changes. Check out our website: beerandmon...
Sept. 22, 2025

Episode 319 - 5 Questions to ask when interviewing a Financial Advisor

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses essential questions to ask when interviewing financial advisors. He emphasizes the importance of understanding personal goals and finding an advisor who aligns with those goals. The conversation covers key topics such as advisor compensation, services offered, and how to measure success in the client-advisor relationship. Ryan provides actionable insights to help listeners make informed decisions when selecting a financial advisor. #...
Sept. 15, 2025

Episode 318 - Small Thinking vs Big Thinking

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses the contrast between small thinking and big thinking in financial planning. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on larger financial goals rather than getting caught up in minor savings habits, such as cutting out small luxuries like Starbucks. By analyzing the impact of lifestyle choices on savings and the power of incremental changes, Ryan illustrates how a small adjustment in spending can lead to significant wealth accumulation over...
Sept. 8, 2025

Episode 317 - What Happens After Seven Figures

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses the financial risks that arise once individuals surpass the seven-figure mark in assets. He emphasizes that contrary to popular belief, reaching this milestone does not simplify financial management; rather, it introduces new complexities and risks. The conversation highlights three main issues: the shift in control from savings to investments, the feeling of being stuck in wealth accumulation, and the dangers of concentrated holdings in i...
Sept. 1, 2025

Episode 316 - Top 3 Portfolio Mistakes

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the three most common portfolio mistakes they encounter with clients. They emphasize the importance of understanding asset classes, avoiding over-concentration in US large stocks, and ensuring proper diversification to mitigate risks. The conversation highlights the significance of a balanced investment strategy and the need for clients to be aware of their portfolio's composition and associated risks. Check out our websi...
Aug. 25, 2025

Episode 315 - Retirement Rich, Cash Poor

In this episode of "Beer and Money," Ryan Burklo explores why many people feel financially stressed despite having significant retirement savings. He highlights the importance of taxable brokerage accounts in providing financial flexibility and reducing stress. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/RyanBurklo TAKEAWAYS Many individuals feel financially constrained because th...
Aug. 18, 2025

Episode 314 - How Are Your Assets Taxed?

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the critical topic of how assets are taxed and the implications for financial planning. They explore the importance of understanding tax brackets, the different types of taxable buckets, and strategies for tax efficiency. The conversation emphasizes the need for tax diversification and the impact of cash flow versus asset shifting on retirement income. The hosts provide insights into how listeners can better prepare for thei...
Aug. 11, 2025

Episode 313 - Sequence of Returns Risk

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses the critical concept of sequence of returns risk and its significant impact on retirement planning. He explains how market fluctuations during the initial years of retirement can affect the longevity of a retirement portfolio. Ryan emphasizes the importance of having a diversified investment strategy to mitigate risks associated with market downturns and ensure financial stability throughout retirement. Check out our website: beerandmon...
Aug. 4, 2025

Episode 312 - Will Your Savings Last?

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the critical question of whether savings will last through retirement. They explore common mistakes made by pre-retirees and retirees, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and understanding the risks associated with outliving savings. The hosts introduce the Monte Carlo simulation as a tool for assessing financial risks and analyze different investment strategies to enhance retirement income. They highlight the s...
July 28, 2025

Episode 311 - What are the Different Types of Life Insurance with Mark SanGiacomo

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo, Alex Collins, and Mark SanGiacomo delve into the complexities of life insurance, discussing its various types, the importance of income replacement, and how to determine the right amount of coverage. They explore the differences between term and permanent insurance, including whole life and universal life policies, emphasizing the need for personalized financial planning. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding insurance produ...
July 21, 2025

Episode 310 - Top 3 Questions to Ask When Interviewing Advisors

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss essential questions to ask when searching for a financial advisor, particularly from the perspective of their mothers. They explore the importance of understanding the advisor's process, compensation models, and the need for coordination with other professionals. The conversation emphasizes trust, transparency, and the fiduciary responsibility of advisors, providing listeners with valuable insights for making informed decisi...
July 14, 2025

Episode 309 - How to Prioritize So You Can Retire Part 2

In this episode, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the essential elements of prioritizing a financial plan. They emphasize the importance of cash flow, income protection, and the balance between savings rate and rate of return. The conversation also covers debt management strategies, the significance of estate planning, and the implications of asset location on taxes. The hosts provide actionable insights for listeners to enhance their financial strategies and ensure a secure financial future...
July 7, 2025

Episode 308 - How to Prioritize So You Can Retire Part 1

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the essential components of financial planning, focusing on the question many people ask: 'When can I be done working?' They emphasize the importance of understanding cash flow, income planning, protection strategies, asset management, and managing liabilities and taxes. The conversation highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to financial organization, ensuring that all aspects of a financial plan work together coh...
June 30, 2025

Episode 307 - Should You Overpay Your Mortgage? Part 2

In this episode, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the implications of overpaying a mortgage and explore alternative strategies for managing cash flow and financial planning in retirement. They emphasize the importance of flexibility in financial decisions, particularly regarding mortgage payments, and the role of life insurance in providing additional security and cash flow. The conversation highlights the need for strategic planning to address potential financial challenges in retirement, s...
June 23, 2025

Episode 306 - Should You Overpay Your Mortgage? Part 1

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the common financial question of whether individuals should overpay on their mortgages. They explore the implications of mortgage overpayment on cash flow, financial stress, and overall financial planning. The conversation emphasizes the importance of liquidity and how having access to cash can alleviate financial worries, especially as individuals approach retirement. Through various strategies, they illustrate how managing...
June 16, 2025

Episode 305 - State of Washington Estate Tax: What You Need To Know Now

In this episode, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the impending changes to the Washington State estate tax, including updates to the exemption limits and tax rates. They emphasize the importance of proper estate planning to navigate these changes effectively and ensure that individuals and families can protect their assets and minimize tax liabilities. The conversation highlights the need for coordination among financial advisors, estate planning attorneys, and CPAs to create a comprehensive...
June 9, 2025

Episode 304 - What is Index Investing?

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins delve into the intricacies of index investing, particularly focusing on the S&P 500. They discuss common misconceptions about index investing, the importance of diversification, and the risks associated with over-concentration in large-cap stocks. The conversation also touches on the differences between active and passive investing strategies, emphasizing the need for a well-rounded approach to portfolio management. The hosts aim to...
June 2, 2025

Episode 303 - What is Mortgage Recasting?

In this week's episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo explains the concept of mortgage recasting — a lesser-known alternative to refinancing. He walks listeners through a scenario in how this process works. While not available through all lenders (especially federal loans), mortgage recasting can be a valuable strategy for those looking to improve cash flow or prepare for retirement without refinancing at a higher interest rate. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net For a quick assessmen...
May 26, 2025

Episode 302 - Lessons From Our Clients

In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the valuable lessons learned from their experiences with clients over the years. They explore the importance of maintaining emotional balance, planning for both success and worst-case scenarios, and the significance of taking time for family and personal health. The conversation emphasizes the need for flexibility in financial planning and the evolving nature of personal goals. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net F...