Making Money Fun

 We all have a family culture where parents take care of their children until they grow up, sometimes allowing them to neglect their responsibilities because they are with us.In this episode, Melisa Horn and Alden Rowe from Heritage Financial Strategies discussed an article that reveals 45% of adult children receive financial support from their parents, even after graduating college. The support includes groceries, rent, tuition fees, and more. The conversation touches on the impact of economic crises on millennials' financial situations and the importance of having a clear vision for one's future to build momentum toward financial independence. They also explore how parenting styles may contribute to this trend and mention the prevalence of anxiety among millennials.Seek advice from financial experts like Melisa Horn and Alden Rowe to navigate economic challenges and build a solid foundation for your financial well-being.  About the GuestMelisa Horn  - Melisa Horn is a highly experienced professional with ov

In investing, it is important to explore alternative options in order to minimize the risk of losses.In this episode, I discussed the S&P 500, a stock market index measuring the performance of the 500 largest companies listed on the US stock exchange. Additionally, it is crucial to consider other investment options as relying solely on the S&P entails greater risk, given its potential fluctuations on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. Therefore, for a diversified investment strategy, it is advisable to include a mix of asset classes and sectors, such as bonds, in order to mitigate losses.Tune in now to learn more about S & P 500 and take control of your financial future!Episode HighlightsWhat is S & P 500Considering a broader range of investment optionsFinding other categories of investmentsManaging and mitigating risk or potential losses in an investment portfolioListen now!We-make-money-funIndices mentioned are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. Past performance is not a guarant

Ever wondered why everyone who has a personal financial planner says it’s a game changer? In today’s episode, Shanna Tingom of Heritage Financial Strategies introduces Tony and Renée, a retired couple living in Arizona and long-standing clients of hers. As former business owners, they know it is a must to have a financial specialist, especially in the economy we live in today. They found Shanna through Dave Ramsey's SmartVestor Pro program and felt comfortable choosing her as their go-to expert in the financial field. They are convinced that the right financial advisor should listen to what matters to them, teach them about their options, serve them, and keep them in charge… and mentioned that Shanna is doing this perfectly. Tony shares that one of the most valuable things about working with her is her network and her team. No matter what, they’ll always have your back. To meet the team at Heritage, go to https://www.heritagefinancialaz.com/ where you can schedule an initial consultation.

Having a partner who supports you not only in your personal life but also in your business endeavors can bring numerous benefits. From shared goals and mutual support to leverage complementary skills and the ability to navigate challenges together, a partner can enhance both your personal and professional growth.Eric Tingom, the Director of Technology and Tax Strategy and Shannon's husband and business partner at Heritage Financial Strategies discusses his background in accounting, finance, and business management consulting. He highlights his role in building and managing Heritage, sharing the challenges they faced, including his extensive traveling before COVID and the process of rebuilding their office space. The importance of providing clients with a comprehensive financial planning experience and working towards their future goals is emphasized throughout the discussion.Join us at Heritage Financial Strategies for a comprehensive and personalized financial planning experience that will help you achieve y

For Wendy Rios, being riddled with debt and financial uncertainty was no longer an option. She wanted to visit the land of financial peace. Her dream became a reality when she and her husband deep-dived into Financial Coach Dave Ramsey's Baby Steps Framework.Wendy and her husband paid down a substantial amount of debt following Dave's system and applying hard work and persistence. Still, they knew they needed the help that only a professional could provide. That's when Wendy reached out to our family at Heritage Financial.  With the help of Shanna Tingom, AAMS®, CFDA® Financial planner, Wendy developed a plan to pay off debt, save for her children's college tuition, and plan a comfortable retirement.  Wendy Rios took control of her finances by seeking guidance from a financial advisor, creating wealthy habits like budgeting and saving, and hiring a professional accountant to help her stay on track. She also began investing while diversifying her portfolio to reduce risk. By doing so, Wendy was able to make wi

Many students are burdened with student loan debt, with 70% of college graduates in the United States having an average debt of over $30,000. As a parent, we all want to see our children succeed and accomplish their goals, especially when it comes to their education. However, with the rising costs of tuition and living expenses, many students are forced to take out student loans, which can burden them with debt for years to come. Our guest in this episode is Juan Te Dailey, who achieved the remarkable feat of sending her son to college debt-free. Juan Te's journey is a testament to the power of financial planning and hard work and by following Dave Ramsey's advice from his book, "The Total Money Makeover," Juan Te was able to take crucial steps to achieve financial freedom. Graduating from college debt-free can be an incredibly empowering experience. It allows our children to start their careers without the burden of student loans, giving them a sense of financial freedom and the ability to pursue their dream

There are several advantages to getting started with financial planning early and focusing on it with a financial expert. However, we all always have questions about this issue. Today, Shanna Tingom of Heritage Financial Strategies and her two clients, Bart and Lori, are talking about the importance of early financial planning with a financial expert, and this podcast leads to Shanna, Bart, and Lori talking about how their relationships developed in the past through consultation on financial planning. Bart and Lori believe that the sooner you can start financial planning, the better, and of course, you can increase the possibility of getting a great impact on your savings. Also, they mention that experts can help you with your financial plan and reduce your confusion about your future finances, and Bart and Lori point out their experiences. If you need to talk about your future financial plan with an expert, reach out to Shanna and her team at Heritage Financial Strategies here to schedule a consultation.

What Do Tom Brady, Usain Bolt, Stephen Curry, Mike Tyson, John McEnero, and Dennis Rodman Have in Common?They were all victims of financial mismanagement, where their money was stolen or misappropriated by the companies or individuals they entrusted to manage it. Olympic runner Usain Bolt is the latest among this group to experience this misfortune - he recently had nearly 13 million dollars taken from him over a 13-year period. Tom Brady lost 650 million with FTX, Steven Curry lost 160 million with FTX, and Mike Tyson and Kareem Abdul Jabar (Elvis Presley) have had undisclosed amounts of money stolen or misappropriated. John McEnroe lost two million investing in a painting fraud, while Dennis Rodman has been liable for 3.5 million stolen by his financial advisor Peggy Ann Fulford.These types of fraud typically fall into one of two categories: fraudulent activities such as theft or embezzlement; or Ponzi schemes where non-existent returns are promised, but only payouts come from other people's investments. In

Mark and Lizza, two of Shanna's clients, are introduced, as well as the returning listeners to the broadcast. Mark, a Heritage Planning customer for a number of years, explains why he chose to work with a planner. He adds that he needed assistance in handling his finances and providing for his family. Lizza chose Heritage Planning because she believed the business could offer her the finest support.  Lizza and Mark talk about Mark's firm being sold and the journey to retirement. They discuss how having a solid financial foundation and estate plan are crucial, as well as, how working with a financial planner may assist to bring clarity and peace of mind.  If you share a similar story, or have any questions related to your financial future, you can always reach out to Shanna and her team at Heritage Financial Strategies at https://www.heritagefinancialaz.com/ 

In this podcast, I’m joined by my Naturopath Dr. Kasey Nichols of Onyx Integrative Medicine in Gilbert, and we will be discussing how I took physical and financial steps towards a healthier lifestyle, starting in mid 2021.I began by taking blood tests following a diagnosis of dangerously low iron from my primary care doctor. I was referred to a hematologist and booked in for an iron infusion that same week. Then the journey began.I underwent hormone testing which showed something unexpected, as well as blood tests to check iron levels and food sensitivity tests which highlighted some common triggers including peanuts, almonds, pineapple, and gluten.In response to the dietary advice, I started a gluten-free diet in the fall of 2021. This has led to weight loss of around 30 pounds so far with more to go! I feel better at 50 than I did at 30! 

On this episode of Making Money Fun, Christina talked about what it was like, leading up to, and finally working with Heritage Financial Strategies on planning life for her family after retirement.   She shared why they decided to hire a planner and why they chose Heritage.   She also shared that she was diagnosed with a degrative brain disease and had brain surgery, and that hastened their need to make sure they would be financially ok, even if she couldn’t return to work.   Their most significant financial achievement was realized early in 2023 when they paid off their mortgage and now can rest easy knowing they will be financially able to handle it if she is not able to return to work.   

Secure Act 2.0: An OverviewThe Secure Act of 2019 was the biggest legislative change to retirement planning since 2006, and it quickly became overshadowed by the COVID-19 pandemic. But Secure Act 2.0 brings even more changes that could significantly impact how you plan for your retirement.Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)Under the Secure Act, the age at which individuals must withdraw money from certain retirement accounts has changed. The RMD age has now been set at 72 for anyone born in 1950 or earlier, 73 for those born in 1951-59, and 75 for anyone born in 1960 or later. There is also the possibility that some in the group with 73 as their RMD age may be changed to 74. Additionally, distributions must happen by April 1 of the year after attaining the RMD age. If you wait until the following calendar year to withdraw, two distributions will be due that year. And if you fail to take an RMD, penalty fees can be reduced from 50% to 25%, which could go down to 10% if corrected promptly.Employer-Sponsored P

Why Your Vision Board Should Include a Financial Planner: Getting into the Nitty Gritty with Lisa and ShannaEver wished that you had your very own guardian angel to help you navigate the course of your finances? Well, look no further because your wish has been granted!Join us and our guest, Lisa, on this episode as she shares her personal experience and journey towards building and improving the financial health of she and her partner, Nick. A loyal client of over 8 years, Lisa is a health, wellness and clinical practitioner, as well as a business leader who is planning on launching her newest venture, "Adventures with Lisa" next year.She shares what it's like to be lost and what led her and her partner to bring in a financial planner on their quest for financial freedom and security. According to Lisa, seeking help is not necessarily a sign of weakness but a mark of courage. She also talks about how engaging the services of a financial planner transformed her life and facilitated her early retirement plan, a

It's been a turbulent year for investors in 2022, as the Federal Reserve took action against inflation and the stock market reacted to changes in the discount rate. This resulted in a rare phenomenon of both equities and bonds selling off simultaneously - but even during recessionary periods, the stock market has had a positive return on average. 2023 looks optimistic, with no two down years occurring consecutively, but investors must remain diversified and use tax-efficient strategies. Despite periods of volatility, taking a long-run approach to the market can reap rewards.

Today’s show is about Melisa Horn, a highly experienced financial professional with over 30 years of experience in banks and credit unions. As Financial Coach with Mindful Money Financial Coaching, Melisa helps clients with budgeting and financial education. Additionally, as Brand Ambassador for Heritage Financial Strategies, she shares her expertise in making the most of their money. With a strong focus on customer service excellence, Melisa goes above and beyond to ensure everyone receives high-quality care and support. Melisa has an impressive background; she holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing from Arkansas State University and has received numerous awards for excellence throughout her career. She is known for building trust with her clients and team members through authentic relationships. Her dedication to helping others achieve their best financial future makes her a valuable asset to Heritage Financial Strategies. Plus, Melisa is passionate about helping people make smart financial decisio

A windfall is money that comes to you suddenly, often unexpectedly.  This could be an inheritance, settlement, lottery winnings, or even stock in the form of a company IPO.  Today, Shanna Tingom of Heritage Financial Strategies and Jon Gay discuss what to do with a windfall, and some very costly mistakes to avoid.  70% of people who come into large sums of money lose it within a few years!If you know a windfall is coming, be honest.  For example, if you're anticipating an inheritance, talk to those relatives while they're here so that you're all on the same page.Next, it's vital to have a team in place to help you with this money.  This can include a financial advisor, attorney, CPA, and more.  Lean on their expertise.  And keep things quiet!  Only tell your team members and close people that you trust.  The last thing you want is to be under siege from people asking for money.If you're dealing with a current or future windfall situation, or have any questions related to your financial future, you can always

Shanna Tingom has long sensed - in herself as well as her clients, that women are struggling with their financial health. Many feel they haven't contributed as much as they'd like to their retirement plan.  This money has gone to other places that Shanna explains, particularly since the start of COVID.Three main factors playing into all of this are inflation, low consumer confidence, and changes around access to reproductive healthcare.59% of women stress about money once a week, and 43% of women actively worry about money at least once a day!Shanna and Jon also compare differences between generation of women - and where their priorities aren't the same.   However, more women are making their financial health a priority.Mentioned in today's show: The Ellevest Study "The State of Women's Financial Wellness in 2022:"  https://s3.amazonaws.com/production.assets.ellevest.com/documents/Ellevest-The-State-of-Womens-Financial-Wellness-in-2022.pdfReach out to Shanna and her team at Heritage Financial Strategies at ht

Shanna Tingom's guest today is Aaron Witten of Witten Financial. His firm specializes in helping businesses use the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) related to COVID.  He's here to walk us through it.The ERC started with the CARES Act in April of 2020, but it was revised in December of 2020, and again under "Build Back Better" in February of 2021.  The latest revision includes the language: “if your business was fully or partially impacted by a governmental shutdown order." This makes it easier for businesses with non-relative W2 employees to qualify.  The affected "pandemic period" includes Q2, Q3, and Q4 of 2020, as well as Q1, Q2, and Q3 of 2021. These income-tax-free, refundable credits can run as high as up to $26k per employee over this covered period – making this an extremely valuable shot of cash in the arm of businesses, both large and small.Aaron also breaks down how PPP and EIDL loans could affect eligibility.  How do you apply for the ERC? What are the terms, time period, and processes?  Aaron giv

As we turn the calendar to October, the markets continue to show signs of volatility.  Today, Shanna and Jon are here to explore what's happened since our last check in, 3 months ago.In September, the Fed raised the interest rate another 0.75%.  What does that mean for our listeners, and are we closer to a recession than we were a quarter ago?While that's not an easy question to answer, it's important to look at what makes our current condition unique. This includes household debt to asset ratios, and the differences in personal consumption of goods vs services.Should our listeners hold tight?  Shanna closes by answering that question.Want to know more? Contact Shanna Tingom and the team at Heritage Financial Strategies: https://www.heritagefinancialaz.com/

Student loan forgiveness was announced a few weeks ago by the Biden administration.  What are the pros and cons? Are you eligible? How does it work?  Shanna Tingom from Heritage Financial Strategies is here to answer those questions today.Shanna and Jon agree this plan is a good step in the right direction to help many Americans get back on their feet financially, so they'll have more money they can spend, and get out from crippling student loan debt.   The plan doesn't address the root problem here - the skyrocketing cost of higher education - but that's a conversation for another podcast.    Also, financial education is so critically important - both of our cohosts made the mistake of signing up for a credit card in college in exchange for a free T-shirt.  But Shanna also got pizza out of the deal. Jon did not.This new plan will provide $10,000 of student loan forgiveness for those who qualify, and that number goes up to $20,000 if you received a need-based Pell Grant.  In other words, if your family was be