Making smart portfolio decisions require more than just choosing investments. It requires managing your own behavior. Mark speaks with Schwab Wealth Advisory's Chief Portfolio Strategist Kasey McCurdy about how emotions influence investing decisions and why investors often struggle with rebalancing, diversification, and staying invested during market volatility. Along the way, they share practical ways to approach portfolio construction and avoid common behavioral investing pitfalls.

After you listen:

• Learn how a goals-based approach to investing can help you build and manage a portfolio with Schwab Wealth Advisory™.
• Check out Schwab's resources on portfolio management for more about diversification, rebalancing, and other long-term investing strategies.

Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab.

If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.

Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.

Important Disclosures

This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.

All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions.

Diversification, asset allocation, and rebalancing strategies do not ensure a profit and do not protect against losses in declining markets.

Rebalancing may cause investors to incur transaction costs and, when a non-retirement account is rebalanced, taxable events may be created that may affect your tax liability.

There are risks associated with investing in dividend paying stocks, including but not limited to the risk that stocks may reduce or stop paying dividends.

Schwab Wealth Advisory™ ("SWA") is a non‐discretionary investment advisory program sponsored by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. ("Schwab"). Schwab Wealth Advisory, Inc. ("SWAI") is a Registered Investment Adviser and provides portfolio management for the SWA program. Schwab and SWAI are affiliates and are subsidiaries of The Charles Schwab Corporation.

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

​Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

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What can America's first 250 years teach investors? In this special Independence Day episode, Mark Riepe examines key moments in U.S. economic and financial history, including national debt, inflation, currency, taxation, tariffs, and personal finance. Through stories spanning the Revolutionary War to the 20th century, he highlights the people, policies, and financial decisions that helped shape the nation—and the lessons they still offer today.

After you listen:

• Curious how today's policy debates connect to the markets? Listen to the WashingtonWise podcast for Mike Townsend's analysis of the issues shaping investors' decisions.

Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab.

If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.

Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.

Important Disclosures

This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.

All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions.

The policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

​Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

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Trusts can be a powerful estate planning tool, but many people overlook them or assume they’re only for the wealthy. This episode breaks down how trusts work, including key differences between revocable and irrevocable trusts and their role in probate, asset management, and control. It also explores when a trust might make sense based on your goals, family needs, and financial situation. If you’re building an estate plan, understanding trusts can help you make more informed decisions.

After you listen:

• Find more of Schwab's educational resources on trusts.
• Learn more about estate planning from Austin Jarvis.

Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab.

If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.

Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.

Important Disclosures

This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.

All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions.

This general information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax, legal, or investment planning advice and is not intended to be construed as tax advice. This information cannot be used for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed under the Internal Revenue Code or applicable state or local tax law provisions. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, Schwab recommends consulting with a qualified tax professional, CPA, financial planner, investment manager , or estate attorney>.

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

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Giving financial guidance to a college grad can be challenging, especially when advice is unsolicited or poorly timed. In this episode, host Mark Riepe is joined by returning guest, Patrick Means, to break down how to help new graduates make smarter financial and investing decisions by focusing on communication, not just content. Discover how to frame advice around a young adult's goals, avoid common pitfalls, and address behavioral biases such as procrastination and exponential growth bias. Plus learn the foundational habits that set college grads up for long-term financial success, from budgeting to investing.

After you listen:

• Find more educational resources at Schwab Moneywise Teens.
• Learn more about the Schwab Teen Investing Account.

Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab.

If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.

Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.

Important Disclosures

This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.

All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions.

For important information on the Schwab Teen Investor™ account, including restrictions and limitations, go to schwab.com/teen-account.

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

​Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

All corporate names and market data shown are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.

The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

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After you listen:

• Check out "Tax Basics: How to Plan Year-Round."
• Find more financial-planning resources on Schwab's Insights & Education site.

On this episode, Mark Riepe examines why investors often approach taxes with a short-term mindset and how that can undermine long-term financial outcomes. Mark is joined by Hayden Adams, director of tax planning and wealth management research at the Schwab Center for Financial Research, to explore the difference between tax preparation and year-round tax planning. They discuss how tax aversion and loss aversion can distort decisions around investing, account selection, and retirement distributions, often leading people to prioritize minimizing today's tax bill over maximizing lifetime after-tax wealth. The conversation emphasizes the value of taking a longer view on taxes and integrating them thoughtfully into broader financial-planning decisions.

Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab.

If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.

Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.

Important Disclosures

This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.

All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions.

Schwab does not provide tax advice. Clients should consult a professional tax advisor for their tax advice needs.

This information is not a specific recommendation, individualized Tax advice. Tax laws are subject to change, either prospectively or retroactively. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, individuals should contact their own professional tax and investment advisors or other professionals (CPA, Financial Planner, Investment Manager, Estate Attorney) to help answer questions about specific situations or needs prior to taking any action based upon this information.

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

​Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

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After you listen:

• For estate planners, read more about "3 Ways to Pass Down a Home."
• For heirs, read more about "Dos and Don'ts When You Get an Inheritance."

This episode of Financial Decoder explores inheritance from both perspectives: the person planning to pass on wealth and the heir receiving it. Host Mark Riepe examines the financial and emotional factors that influence inheritance decisions, including planning considerations, family dynamics, and timing. The discussion emphasizes thoughtful preparation, clear communication, and avoiding rushed decisions during periods of transition. Listeners gain practical guidance for navigating inheritance planning and managing new wealth with intention and care.

Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder.

If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.

Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.

Important Disclosures

This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.

All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions.

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

​Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

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After you listen:

• Learn more about the Schwab Teen Investor™ account.
• Find more educational resources at Schwab Moneywise Teens.

On this episode of Financial Decoder, host Mark Riepe is joined by guest Patrick Means to discuss the ways parents play a central role in helping teens develop practical money skills that last into adulthood. Their discussion explores why open conversations and real‑world practice matter more than lectures when it comes to learning about money. It looks at how everyday experiences can make financial concepts feel relevant and meaningful for young people. The goal is to help teens build confidence and a foundation for long‑term financial independence.

Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder.

If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.

Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.

Important Disclosures

This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.

All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions.

For important information on the Schwab Teen Investor™ account, including restrictions and limitations, go to schwab.com/teen-account.

The "S&P 500® Index" is a product of S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC or its affiliates ("SPDJI"), and has been licensed for use by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. ("CS&Co."). Standard & Poor’s® and S&P® are registered trademarks of Standard & Poor's Financial Services LLC ("S&P”"; Dow Jones® is a registered trademark of Dow Jones Trademark Holdings LLC ("Dow Jones").

Schwab Starter Kit™ is not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by SPDJI, Dow Jones, S&P, or their respective affiliates, and none of such parties make any representation regarding the advisability of using Schwab Starter Kit, nor do they have any liability for any errors, omissions, or interruptions of the S&P 500 Index.

Withdrawals from an IRA prior to age 59½ may be subject to a 10% Federal tax penalty. For a Roth IRA, tax-free withdrawals of earnings are permitted five years after first contribution creating account. Earnings withdrawn prior to that may be subject to ordinary income taxes and a 10% Federal tax penalty

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

​Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

Definitions

The 50‑30‑20 rule is a general budgeting guideline that suggests allocating approximately 50% of after‑tax income to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings or debt repayment. The percentages are intended as a simple framework and may not be appropriate for everyone.

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After you listen:

• Read more of Mark's insights in his article "7 Good Ideas for New Investors."
• Learn more about Investing Basics

In this Financial Decoder minisode, Mark Riepe shares seven good ideas for new investors. The episode focuses on foundational investing concepts designed to be relevant in nearly any market environment. While the guidance is geared toward beginners, experienced investors may also find it useful as a refresher on long-term investing fundamentals. This episode emphasizes building a solid investing foundation rather than reacting to short-term market events.

More resources mentioned in the episode:

• "What Is a Bond? Understanding Bond Types and How They Work"
• "The Role of Various Asset Classes in a Portfolio"
• "Comparing Education Savings Accounts"

Other helpful Financial Decoder episodes:

• "How Should Your Goals Shape Your Portfolio?"
• "Do You Know These 7 Bond Market Basics?"
• "How Can You Set the Right Financial Goals?"
• "What Should Your Advisor Know About You?"

Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder.

If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.

Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.

Important Disclosures

This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.

All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions.

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

​Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

Performance may be affected by risks associated with non-diversification, including investments in specific countries or sectors. Additional risks may also include, but are not limited to, investments in foreign securities, especially emerging markets, real estate investment trusts (REITs), fixed income, municipal securities including state specific municipal securities, small capitalization securities and commodities. Each individual investor should consider these risks carefully before investing in a particular security or strategy.

The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

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