• Market Myths & Money Moves! Plus, the questions you should ask your advisor
    Feb 16 2026
    With gold and silver surging to eye-catching highs, Joel unpacks whether now is really the right time to jump in. Get the unvarnished truth about the risks and realities of investing in gold and silver, including their historical track record, the costs that often go overlooked, and why they’re not always the golden ticket to wealth the headlines might suggest. Discover how herd mentality, FOMO, and social media hype can drive prices—and why long-term results often tell a different story.

    But that’s not all—this episode empowers you with a practical checklist of essential questions to ask your financial advisor. Joel breaks down the crucial topics: understanding all the fees you’re paying, ensuring your advisor acts as a fiduciary, grasping their investment philosophy and track record, and knowing how they’ll communicate with you through the market’s ups and downs. These questions are designed to help you build a true partnership and make well-informed decisions about your financial future.

    Whether you’re a seasoned investor, just getting started, or simply curious about the latest trends in money management, this episode promises valuable insights, clear explanations, and actionable advice. Tune in to sharpen your financial acumen and make sense of your dollars—plus, find out how you can connect with Joel and his team for further guidance.

    Listen now to get the facts, cut through the hype, and take charge of your finances with confidence!


    💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
    Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions.

    👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

    About Joel Garris:
    Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

    ➡️ CONNECT WITH US:
    Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
    Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
    Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
    YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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    40 min
  • The Marathon of Investing—Strategies for Every Age: Stories of What Investors Wish They Knew
    Feb 9 2026
    In this episode, Rob Field and Chet Cowart explore the parallels between training for a marathon and investing for the future, emphasizing how each investor's personal goals and circumstances shape their approach. They begin by discussing recent market trends and how growth over the past few years has affected different age groups.

    The hosts highlight the importance of investment goal-setting, comparing strategies for those nearing retirement to those still building their wealth. Younger investors typically seek maximum growth and are more tolerant of market volatility, viewing downturns as opportunities to buy. In contrast, those closer to retirement prioritize safety and income, often shifting toward bonds and cash to preserve capital and generate steady income.

    Field and Cowart also tackle topics such as portfolio construction, risk tolerance, and the differing roles of income and Social Security. They note that Social Security is funded by younger workers and question its future viability as workforce demographics shift and more people delay retirement. The conversation includes recent trends, such as a decrease in workers under 25 and factors influencing workforce participation since the pandemic.

    The episode offers valuable insights into lessons investors often wish they had learned earlier, including the power of savings and compounding, the importance of starting early, managing debt, automating investments, and developing disciplined financial habits. The hosts stress the significance of honest self-assessment, patience, and flexibility—much like training for a marathon.

    Concluding, Rob and Chet reiterate that successful investing is about time, setting clear goals, and understanding one’s risk tolerance. They encourage listeners to approach their financial journey with a long-term perspective, realistic expectations, and sustainable habits.


    💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
    Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions.

    👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

    About Joel Garris:
    Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

    ➡️ CONNECT WITH US:
    Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
    Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
    Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
    YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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    38 min
  • Is Your Financial Plan Ready for 2026? Market Shifts, Money Myths & America’s Biggest Wealth Transfer
    Feb 2 2026
    Join hosts Joel Garris and Zach Keister on this action-packed episode of Dollars & Sense as they break down the fast-paced start to 2026. Discover why the stock market’s leadership is changing, what the “Mag 7” becoming the “Fab 4” means for your investments, and how early signs of broad market participation could reshape your portfolio. The duo tackles interest rates, the latest moves from the Federal Reserve, and what falling mortgage rates mean for buyers.

    But it’s not just about markets—Joel and Zach dive into the five financial lies people keep telling themselves, from “I have a budget” to “I don’t know why I’m always broke.” They share practical steps to build a real emergency fund, track your spending, and take control of your financial future. If you’ve ever wondered why your money seems to disappear, this segment is a must-listen!

    The show wraps up with a look at the $4.6 trillion real-estate wealth transfer—from Baby Boomers to Gen X and Millennials—that’s already changing housing and family planning.

    Whether you’re considering buying property for your kids, downsizing, or inheriting a home, you’ll get expert insights on how to structure these moves and avoid common pitfalls.

    Tune in to hear how market trends, personal finance habits, and generational shifts are converging in 2026—and what it means for you.


    💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
    Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions.

    👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

    About Joel Garris:
    Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

    ➡️ CONNECT WITH US:
    Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
    Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
    Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
    YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
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    38 min
  • Is Your Car Loan Hurting Your Future? Plus, The Hidden Emotional Crisis in Retirement
    Jan 26 2026
    In this compelling episode of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris, the show dives deep into two urgent financial realities that could reshape your future: the explosion of ultra-long car loans and a retirement crisis few see coming—not about money, but about meaning.

    First, Joel tackles the “100-month car loan” phenomenon, revealing how soaring auto prices and sky-high average payments (now topping $750/month) are forcing families into unprecedented debt traps. He breaks down common mistakes—like focusing only on monthly payments or stretching loan terms to buy pricier vehicles—and offer smart, actionable strategies: buying used, choosing shorter loans, and planning purchases to protect your budget and future.

    Then, the show pivots to a powerful, rarely discussed retirement crisis: the loss of mattering. Joel illuminates why financial and health planning alone aren’t enough and explores the emotional gap retirees face when work—and the sense of being needed—ends. You’ll hear research-backed insights into why building a new sense of purpose, connection, and significance is the real key to a happy, resilient retirement.

    Plus, the episode unpacks the hidden financial blind spots that overwhelm grieving spouses, from surprise debts and locked accounts to the dreaded “widow’s penalty” tax shock. Joel shares practical steps you can take today to protect your spouse and yourself, ensuring clarity and stability during life’s toughest moments.

    If you want to avoid costly financial pitfalls and ensure your next chapter is not just secure—but meaningful—this episode is a must-listen.


    💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
    Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions.

    👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

    About Joel Garris:
    Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

    ➡️ CONNECT WITH US:
    Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
    Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
    Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
    YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    40 min
  • What’s New in 2026? Child Tax Credit, Itemized Deduction Caps, and Roth 401(k) Rule Changes Explained!
    Jan 19 2026
    Curious how the latest tax law updates and retirement plan changes will impact your wallet in 2026? This week on Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris and Christina Lamb cut through the confusion and deliver essential information every American family and high-income earner needs to know—no jargon, just actionable insights and clear examples.

    First, Christina revisits the Top 10 Tax Changes for 2026—and then dives deeper into two big updates the team didn’t get to last week: the newly indexed Child Tax Credit (now rising with inflation!) and the fresh cap on itemized deductions for high earners. Listeners learn exactly what’s changing, who is affected, and how to maximize their tax strategy under the new rules. Step-by-step action tips help you avoid costly surprises, keep more of your money, and strategize for the year ahead.

    The discussion then shifts to a retirement game-changer: the new Roth 401(k) catch-up contribution requirement for high-income earners aged 50+. If you’re used to socking away extra retirement dollars pre-tax, you’ll want to hear how the new rules could raise your tax bill—and why, for many, it’s still smart to keep contributing. The segment unpacks who must comply, plan differences, and the pros and cons of Roth vs. traditional contributions. Plus, Joel and Christina walk you through critical “what to do now” steps so you don’t get caught off guard, from checking your plan options to coordinating with your tax advisor.

    Finally, the episode wraps up with practical guidance for all listeners: review your eligibility for credits and deductions, start planning early, and remember that smart tax and retirement strategies can make a huge difference by year’s end. Joel and Christina’s friendly, down-to-earth approach makes even complex topics feel manageable—and maybe even a little fun.

    Ready to get ahead of the 2026 tax and retirement changes? Don’t miss out—tune in now to Dollars & Sense and take control of your financial future!


    💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
    Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions.

    👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

    About Joel Garris:
    Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

    ➡️ CONNECT WITH US:
    Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
    Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
    Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
    YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    39 min
  • Venezuela’s Political Shakeup & Top 10 Tax Changes: Impact of Global Events and New Laws
    Jan 12 2026
    Discover the Financial Ripple Effects of Geopolitical Turmoil and 2026’s Major Tax Reforms

    In this episode of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris, hosts Joel and Kristin tackle two high-stakes financial stories shaping headlines and household budgets. First, dive into the dramatic capture of Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces—unraveling the international backlash, the future of Venezuela’s oil sector, and what it means for energy prices, market volatility, and your personal finances. Then, the duo breaks down the top 10 tax changes coming in 2026, from permanent lower tax brackets and bigger deductions, to new benefits for tip earners, car buyers, and charitable donors.

    Find out how shifting global power plays could influence your investment strategy, and get actionable tips to make the most of new tax rules—whether you’re saving for retirement, buying a car, or planning for your children’s future. Will these changes bring more opportunities or new risks to your wallet? Tune in to get informed, stay ahead, and learn what you can do to safeguard your financial future.

    Click to listen and get the insights you need to navigate both international headlines and tax law twists!


    💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
    Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions.

    👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

    About Joel Garris:
    Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

    ➡️ CONNECT WITH US:
    Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
    Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
    Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
    YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    40 min
  • 2026 Market Predictions & Financial Resolutions: Will Diversification Win This Year?
    Jan 5 2026
    Kick off 2026 with Joel Garris on Dollars & Sense as he dives into two critical topics: the latest market trends and practical financial resolutions. This episode opens with a fearless forecast for the year ahead, including a candid review of last year’s predictions—where Joel nailed the impact of deregulation and tax reform but underestimated the power of AI and the surprising market surge. Hear why 2025 was a transformative year, and what lessons shape the new forecast for the Dow in 2026.

    What’s next for investors? Joel reveals the driving forces behind this year’s markets: AI-fueled earnings growth, the effects of recent tax legislation, and why diversification could be the key to outperforming concentrated indexes. He also breaks down the risks—market overvaluation, inflation, and labor concerns—while explaining how a “pause year” might reset expectations.

    Ready to make your financial resolutions stick? Drawing from behavioral finance and insights from The Wall Street Journal, Joel shares actionable strategies for setting—and keeping—money goals that align with your values. Find out how automatic savings, clear targets, and monthly check-ins can transform your financial discipline and set you up for success.

    If you want to know whether your portfolio is poised for growth or if your resolutions will finally last past February, this episode is packed with expert analysis and practical tips. Listen now for a blend of market insights and personal finance wisdom that could make 2026 your best financial year yet!


    💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
    Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions.

    👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

    About Joel Garris:
    Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

    ➡️ CONNECT WITH US:
    Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
    Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
    Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
    YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    41 min
  • Financial Lessons Learned in 2025: Headlines That Shaped Your Money Decisions
    Dec 29 2025
    How This Year’s Biggest Events and Behavioral Insights Can Transform Your Financial Future
    2025 has been a year packed with transformative moments—political shifts, market turbulence, technological leaps, and viral media headlines. In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris guides you through the essential financial lessons we can draw from the past twelve months, exploring how these events influence your money decisions.

    Can the rise of artificial intelligence and robo-advisors truly replace the wisdom and empathy of a seasoned financial advisor? Joel weighs the promise of AI’s efficiency and data prowess against its limitations—highlighting why human guidance remains vital when markets swing, life gets complicated, and emotions run high.

    The episode features Warren Buffett’s timeless warnings about investor behavior, with practical tips for sidestepping biases like loss aversion, herd mentality, and overconsumption. Joel offers real-world strategies to help you avoid costly mistakes and follow a disciplined path, no matter what headline dominates the news cycle.

    From tariffs and market shocks to breakthroughs in energy and viral pop culture moments, every headline of 2025 brought a new lesson for your financial playbook. If you’re ready to understand what these stories mean for your investments—and how to make smarter decisions in the year ahead—this episode delivers valuable insights with Joel’s trademark warmth and wit.

    Curious how these lessons apply to your financial journey? Click to listen and turn 2025’s headlines into your smartest year yet!


    💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
    Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions.

    👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

    About Joel Garris:
    Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

    ➡️ CONNECT WITH US:
    Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
    Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
    Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
    YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    40 min