Shows
Wealth Decisions by BrianBeyond Your 401k: The Untapped Retirement Strategy You NeedThe Best Retirement Investment Account! It’s not What You Think.WATCH THIS VIDEO NEXT:https://youtu.be/UEjVSBxpeZgMost financial advisors push 401k and IRA contributions, but Brian Muller, founder of Momentous Wealth Advisors, reveals why taxable investment accounts might be your most powerful retirement wealth-building tool. Discover the three wealth decision principles that could add six figures to your retirement nest egg.Key Topics Covered:• Why taxable investment accounts beat traditional retirement accounts for many investors• Tax loss harvesting strategies you can’t use in 401k/IRA ac...2025-07-2413 minWealth Decisions by Brian9 Smart Wealth Decisions that Turned Mark's Tax Time Bomb into 2.2 million more Family WealthMark’s $2.25M Balanced Wealth Decisions Plan: Living Rich While Building Legacy WealthBalanced optimization: Mark’s $2.25M more + $275K lifestyle spendingWhat happens when you optimize your workplace retirement plan to its maximum potential? In this ultimate optimization episode, Brian Muller reveals how Mark’s decision to switch to Roth 401k contributions at age 55, maximize catch-up contributions, and coordinate with strategic conversions created a $3.3 million family wealth advantage.Brian demonstrates the ultimate balanced approach: how Mark’s decision to switch to Roth 401k contributions at 55 (then back to traditional at 64-65 for IRMAA av...2025-07-1721 minWealth Decisions by BrianShould I Pay Off My Mortgage Before I Retire or Continue to Invest?Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage or Invest? The $180K Retirement MistakeThis episode of Wealth Decisions reveals the counterintuitive mortgage strategy wealthy retirees use that most financial advisors won’t tell you. Brian Muller, founder of Momentous Wealth Advisors with 25 years of experience, breaks down the math, psychology, and real-world implications of keeping your mortgage versus paying it off before retirement.What You’ll Learn:• The 7-question framework to help make this important wealth decision • Why liquidity beats net worth in retirement planning• The psychological trap that costs retirees $...2025-07-1015 minWealth Decisions by BrianThe $540K Tax Time Bomb: Unveiling the Hidden Costs of Traditional Retirement AccountsTwo retirees, same lifestyle—but one pays $540,000 MORE in taxes. Here’s howWATCH LAST WEEK'S EPISODE PART 1 HERE:https://youtu.be/UEjVSBxpeZgWhy do two retirees with similar lifestyles end up with vastly different tax bills in retirement? In this eye-opening episode, Brian Muller, founder of Momentous Wealth Advisors, reveals the shocking 25-year retirement comparison between Lisa and Mark. Despite Mark starting with $540,000 MORE in savings, Lisa’s strategic Roth planning resulted in significantly more wealth preservation and a larger legacy for her heirs.Brian breaks down the hidden retirement tax tr...2025-07-0313 minWealth Decisions by BrianAchieve Financial Independence by Saving LESS Than Your PeersWhy saving LESS could make you richer: The counterintuitive wealth strategy that beats traditional retirement advice. Financial advisor Brian Muller reveals how Lisa achieves financial independence while saving about $170,000 LESS than her colleague through three strategic wealth decisions.Discover the Roth 401k advantage, the 1% annual increase method, and backdoor Roth IRA strategies that create tax-free retirement wealth. Perfect for high earners seeking financial independence, early retirement planning, and tax-efficient investing strategies.Episode Highlights:• Roth vs Traditional 401k tax comparison with real numbers ($160K income scenario)• How to save $170,000 less and still achi...2025-06-2616 minWealth Decisions by Brian5 Costly Retirement Mistakes and How A Financial Advisor Can Help5 Costly Retirement Mistakes and How A Financial Advisor Can HelpJoin Brian Muller, founder of Momentous Wealth Advisors, as he exposes the 5 most dangerous retirement planning mistakes that cost retirees hundreds of thousands of dollars. In this comprehensive episode of Wealth Decisions, discover why 90% of retirees fail with withdrawal rates above 6%, how the wrong investment strategy destroys retirement portfolios, and the tax planning secrets that create generational wealth.What You’ll Learn:• Why beating the S&P 500 in retirement is the wrong goal (and what to focus on instead)• The investment strate...2025-06-1919 minWealth Decisions by Brian5 INVESTING MISTAKES and How to FIX THEM!Are you making these costly stock market mistakes that could be destroying your investment portfolio? In this episode, Brian Muller, founder of Momentous Wealth Advisors, reveals the five most dangerous investing mistakes that even experienced investors make repeatedly - and the exact strategies to fix them. Discover why hanging onto losing stocks while selling winners is sabotaging your returns, how story stocks without profits are gambling disguised as investing, and the three cognitive biases that cost investors more money than market crashes. Brian shares actionable investment strategies, behavioral finance insights, and wealth-building techniques that transformed his clients’ po...2025-06-1219 minWealth Decisions by BrianMaximizing Wealth: 5 Fixable Financial Mistakes to Build and Keep More of Your Wealth5 Fixable Mistakes Costing You Hundreds of Thousands in Wealth | Roth 401k, Tax Loss Harvesting & HSA StrategiesAre you making these costly financial planning mistakes that could be sabotaging your wealth-building journey? In this episode of Wealth Decisions by Brian, host Brian Muller, founder of Momentous Wealth Advisors, reveals the five most common investment mistakes that high earners make—and how to fix them starting today.What You’ll Learn:• Why maxing out Roth 401k contributions could be costing you thousands in unnecessary taxes• The simple tax loss harvesting strategy that can save you...2025-06-0521 minWealth Decisions by Brian3 Smart Ways to Invest when Building Your Investment Portfolio: Simple, Solid & Strategic3 Smart Ways to Invest when Building Your Portfolio: Simple, Solid & StrategicAre you overwhelmed by conflicting investment advice and complex strategies? In this value-packed episode, Brian Muller breaks down the three essential portfolio approaches that can transform your investing journey: the Core (Simple) Total Market Strategy, the Comprehensive (Solid) Diversified Portfolio, and the Core-Satellite (Strategic) approach. Learn how to build wealth systematically while avoiding the costly mistakes that derail most investors.What You'll Learn:• How to implement the Core Total Market Strategy using low-cost index funds• Why a Comprehensive Diversified Portfolio acro...2025-05-2218 minWealth Decisions by BrianShould You Own Bitcoin, Ethereum or Other Crypto In Your Investment Portfolio?SHOULD YOU OWN BITCOIN OR OTHER CRYPTOCURRENCIES?"In this essential episode of Wealth Decisions, host Brian Muller, founder of Momentous Wealth Advisors, cuts through the hype and confusion surrounding cryptocurrency investments. Whether you're crypto-curious or skeptical, Brian delivers balanced, actionable insights on integrating digital assets into your financial strategy. Discover the real potential of Bitcoin and altcoins as Brian explores both the remarkable upside and significant risks of this emerging asset class. Learn why institutions are increasingly embracing blockchain technology, how to determine if crypto belongs in your portfolio, and practical strategies for investing responsibly i...2025-05-1519 minWealth Decisions by BrianShould You Own Gold or Other Commodities in Your Investment Portfolio?What if I told you there's an asset class that could have protected your portfolio during some of the worst market crashes in history? One that tends to shine exactly when traditional stocks and bonds struggle the most? Today, we're diving into commodities - the often misunderstood investment that could be the missing piece in your diversification strategy.Today we're tackling a question I get all the time from clients: "Should I invest in gold or other commodities?”Are you missing a crucial asset class in your investment portfolio? In this eye-opening episode of Wealth De...2025-05-0812 minWealth Decisions by BrianWealth Decisions by Brian PodcastHey, I'm Brian. Feeling overwhelmed by financial advice that takes too long to digest? That's why I created "Wealth Decisions by Brian" – a podcast that respects your time while transforming your financial future.In just 15 minutes or less per episode, I deliver powerful insights on money, meaning, and mindset that most financial advisors take hours to explain.Why spend your precious time wading through financial jargon when I cut straight to what matters? Each episode packs actionable strategies that can dramatically impact your wealth trajectory and help you align your finances with what truly matters in...2025-05-0501 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianDo You Own Bonds In Your Investment Portfolio?Did you know that some of the wealthiest investors in history made their fortunes not from stocks, but from bonds? In today's episode, we're diving deep into why bonds matter more than ever in today's market, especially if you're approaching retirement. Stay tuned to learn how you could potentially earn attractive yields while protecting your wealth from market volatility.Today, we're tackling a question I get all the time from clients: "Brian, do I really need bonds in my portfolio?" And let me tell you, in today's market environment, this question is more relevant than ever.2025-05-0314 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianDo You Own Small-Caps In Your Investment Portfolio?Are you missing out on the growth potential of small-cap stocks? In this eye-opening episode of Wealth Decisions, Brian Muller, founder of Momentous Wealth Advisors, breaks down everything investors need to know about small-cap investing. Discover why these overlooked market segments could be the missing piece in your diversification strategy and potentially boost your long-term returns.What You'll Learn:• What defines a small-cap company and how they differ from large-cap stocks• The historical performance advantages of small-cap investments • Risk management strategies when adding small caps to your portfolio• Age-appropriate allocatio...2025-04-2414 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianDo You Own This Asset Class In Your Portfolio?What if I told you there's a sweet spot in the stock market that consistently outperforms both large and small companies the majority of the time? A segment that combines the stability of established businesses with the explosive growth potential of startups? Stay tuned as we dive into mid-cap investments – the overlooked goldmine that could be the missing piece in your portfolio.In this episode we are talking about mid-caps.Let's start with a simple definition: mid-cap companies are businesses valued between $2 billion and $10 billion. Think about companies like Crocs, Wendy's, or Planet Fitness. They're no...2025-04-1715 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianDo You Own Value Investments in Your Portfolio?Are your investments truly building wealth, or are you just following the crowd? Today, we're diving deep into value investing - a strategy that made Warren Buffett one of the wealthiest people on Earth.Here's what makes an investment truly valuable:First, you need strong fundamentals. We're talking about consistent cash flow, healthy profit margins, and manageable debt levels. Think of it like buying a rental property – you want something that generates reliable income, not just looks pretty.Second, you need a margin of safety. If you calculate a company is worth $100 per sh...2025-04-1016 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianDo You Own Emerging Markets in Your Investment Portfolio?What if I told you there's a massive opportunity that most investors are missing out on? A market that represents over 80% of the world's population and is growing at twice the rate of developed nations. Today, we're diving into emerging markets - and why not having them in your portfolio could be leaving serious money on the table.Today, we're discussing something that might be missing from your investment portfolio: emerging markets.Let's start with a quick definition. Emerging markets are economies that are in the process of rapid growth and industrialization. Think countries like...2025-04-0316 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianDo You Own Developed Markets in Your Portfolio?What if I told you that by ignoring 40% of the world's stock market value, you might be missing out on massive growth opportunities? If you were to guess what asset class is the best performer year to date, what would be your best guess? In this week's episode, we dive into why developed international markets deserve a place in your portfolio and how proper diversification could be the key to unlocking your financial future.You might be thinking, "Brian, why should I care about markets outside the U.S.?" Well, let me share three compelling r...2025-03-2717 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianGetting Your First 100k Saved- Your Launchpad to Become a MillionaireGetting to your first hundred grand is the hardest part. Why? Because you're building the foundation of your wealth journey with nothing but your income and determination. But here's the good news – once you hit that mark, compound interest becomes your best friend.Pre-order my new book "Momentous Decisions: 7 Steps to Better Health, More Wealth, and a Richer Life" at:https://www.momentouswealthadvisors.com/bookFor a transcript of today's episode, go to:https://www.momentouswealthadvisors.com/blogTo explore the 3 Choices for Advice and Guidance, go to:https://www.momentouswealthadvisors.comTo...2025-03-2013 min
Wealth Decisions by Brian3 Signs You May Need a Financial AdvisorFeeling overwhelmed by your finances? You're not alone. From juggling multiple investments to making life-changing money decisions, knowing when to get help can be the difference between thriving and just surviving. In this week's episode of Wealth Decisions, we break down the three undeniable signs that it's time to stop going it alone. One of them might surprise you.Today we're diving into a crucial question many of us face at some point in our financial journey: Do you need a financial advisor? We'll explore three key signs that indicate it might be time to s...2025-03-1314 min
Wealth Decisions by Brian5 Risky Investments to Avoid and One to be Cautious OnTriple your returns overnight? Sounds amazing, until it vaporizes your savings. This week on the Wealth Decisions Podcast, I'm ripping the mask off of the most dangerous money traps and discussing one of the most popular ETF’s pros and cons.Sometimes, it's not what you decide to do but what you decide not to do. These five investments could seriously damage your financial health. Wealth building isn't about finding the next hot investment or get-rich-quick scheme. It's about making consistent, informed decisions over time. Sometimes, the best investment decisions are the ones you don't make....2025-03-0617 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianWhen and How to Rebalance Your Investment PortfolioIs your investment portfolio working as hard as it should be? What if I told you that most investors are leaving money on the table by not rebalancing properly - or worse, rebalancing too often?In this week's episode, I dive into the science and strategy behind portfolio rebalancing, and I'll share three actionable frameworks that could boost your returns while keeping risk in check. The three key aspects of portfolio rebalancing: the why, the when, and the how.First, why rebalance at all? Think of your portfolio like a garden. Over time...2025-02-2714 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianIs Your Investment Portfolio Truly Diversified?Think you're well-diversified because you own the S&P 500, QQQ, and VUG? You might be surprised to learn that you're essentially tripling down on the same handful of tech giants. In this week's episode, I break down the hidden overlap in popular ETFs and show you how to build true diversification into your portfolio.There is a common misconception that I see all the time in my clients' portfolios – the illusion of diversification.Let's start with a quick overview of these three popular ETF's:- The S&P 500 tracks the largest 500 U.S. co...2025-02-2017 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianCan The Stock Market Continue to Go Up?"The stock market is too high." "We're due for a crash." "This time it's different." These are phrases I've heard in every single decade of my career as a financial advisor. Yet here's the shocking truth: If you had invested $10,000 in the market each time someone claimed it was "too high" over the last 30 years, you'd be a millionaire today. In this episode, I'm going to show you why the market's climb isn't just luck - and how understanding its true drivers could transform your financial future.Today we're tackling one of the most common questions I...2025-02-1316 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianFour Ways to Save For Your KidsIn this week's episode, I dive into a topic that's close to my heart and probably yours, too – investing in your kids's future. Whether you're a new parent or have teenagers, this episode will cover the four key ways to save for your kids and strategies you need to know about.For a transcript of today's episode, go to:www.momentouswealthadvisors.com/blogTo explore the 3 Choices for Advice and Guidance go to:https://www.momentouswealthadvisors.comTo see what it would loo...2025-02-0715 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianGoals-Based Investing and The Power of Naming Your Investment AccountsIn this week's episode, we're diving into a powerful approach to investing that's gaining traction among financial advisors and investors alike: Goals-Based Investing. We will discuss the "Power of Naming Your Financial Accounts" and how this can help you have a better chance to stay on track to reach all your most important goals.Let's start with a fundamental truth: Money isn't just about numbers on a screen. It's about what those numbers can help you achieve in your life. According to research by SEI Investments, investors who align their portfolios with specific life goals are not...2025-01-3113 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianUnderstanding Your Money Personality: The Key to Wealth DecisionsIn this week's episode, I am diving into a topic that affects every financial decision you make: your money personality. Understanding your relationship with money is crucial for making sound financial decisions and achieving your goals.What is a Money Personality? Your money personality is the set of attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors you have about money. It's shaped by your upbringing, experiences, and values. Just like your regular personality influences how you interact with people, your money personality influences how you interact with your finances.Understanding your money personality can help you:2025-01-2416 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianUnderstanding Your Money Story: How It Shapes Your Financial LifeWhat is Your Story with Money? We all have a unique narrative when it comes to money - a story that's been shaped by our upbringing, experiences, and beliefs. These narratives often operate in the background, influencing our financial decisions without us even realizing it. Today, we'll explore five common money narratives that people often hold. As we go through these, I encourage you to reflect on which ones resonate with you.The 5 Common Money Narratives:1. The Scarcity Narrative2. The Freedom Narrative3. The Status Narrative2025-01-1710 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianNavigating Wealth: Should You Starve to Secure Your Retirement?In this week's episiode we are diving into a question that many of us grapple with: "Should you starve now to feed retirement goals?" We'll explore the delicate balance between living fully today and saving for tomorrow, discussing what makes people feel wealthy, smart withdrawal strategies, and finding the right savings rate for you.For a transcript of today's episode, go to:www.momentouswealthadvisors.com/blogTo explore the 3 Choices for Advice and Guidance go to:https://www.momentouswealthadvisors.comTo see what it would look like to hire me as your fiduciary financial advisor go to:https://www.momentouswealthadvisors.com/newclients...2024-12-1313 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianMaking Better Investment DecisionsThe Psychology of Investing: Understanding Your Mind to Make Better Investment DecisionsIntroductionIn today’s episode we're going to explore how our minds influence our financial decisions, often in ways we don't even realize.Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting to dip your toes into the financial markets, understanding the psychological factors that drive our investment choices can be a game-changer. By the end of this episode, you'll have a better grasp of your own mental processes and biases, and you'll be equipped with strategies to make more rational, effective investment decisions....2024-12-0617 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianBuilding a Richer Life: The Essential Three S's of WealthThis episode elucidates the profound interplay between financial planning and personal growth through the exploration of what I term the "three S's of wealth": success, significance, and security. I delve into the essence of success, contending that it transcends mere financial accumulation, instead embodying the realization of one's personal aspirations and the establishment of a life characterized by autonomy. Furthermore, I examine the notion of significance, highlighting the imperative of utilizing wealth not solely for personal enrichment but also as a catalyst for positive societal impact. Lastly, I address the critical aspect of security, which serves as the foundational...2024-11-2215 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianUnderstanding the Secure Act 2.0: Key Changes for Retirement SavingsIn this week's episode, we're diving into a topic that's been making waves in the world of retirement savings: The SECURE Act 2.0. This legislation, passed in late 2022, brings significant changes to how Americans can save for retirement. Whether you're just starting your career or nearing retirement age, these changes could have a big impact on your financial future.The SECURE Act 2.0 is a follow-up to the original SECURE Act (Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement) passed in 2019. This new legislation aims to address the ongoing retirement savings crisis in America by making it easier f...2024-11-1512 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianAre Your Really Maxing Out Your 401k?Are you really maxing out your 401k? You might be surprised to learn that what you think is "maxing out" might not be taking full advantage of this powerful retirement tool. So, let's break it down and ensure you're on the right track to a comfortable retirement.What Does "Maxing Out" Really Mean? When most people talk about maxing out their 401k, they're typically referring to contributing up to the annual limit set by the IRS. For 2024, that limit is $23,000 for those under 50, and $30,500 for those 50 and older, thanks to catch-up contributions.2024-11-0811 min
Wealth Decisions by Brian6 Financial Pains and How to Fix ThemIn this week's episode, I dive into a topic that affects nearly everyone at some point in their lives: Some kind of financial pain or setback. I discuss "6 Financial Pains and How to Fix Them: 1. Living Paycheck to PaycheckOne of the most common financial pains is living paycheck to paycheck. This situation can cause immense stress and leave you vulnerable to unexpected expenses.2. High Credit Card DebtCredit card debt can quickly spiral out of control due to high interest rates, leaving you feeling trapped.3. Lack of Retirement S...2024-11-0113 min
Wealth Decisions by Brian5 Key Financial Ratios You Need to KnowHow do you know if you're financially healthy? Is it the balance in your bank account? The car you drive? Or is it something less visible but more fundamental?The truth is, financial health isn't about how much money you have but rather how well you manage what you have. That's where financial ratios come in.We'll explore this topic through the lens of key financial ratios that can give you a clear picture of your financial well-being.For a transcript of today's episode, go to:www.momentouswealthadvisors.com/blogTo explore the 3 Choices for Advice...2024-10-2512 min
Wealth Decisions by BrianMastering Wealth: Lessons from Pickleball for Financial SuccessYou might be wondering, "What could a paddle sport possibly have in common with managing your finances?" Well, get ready to be surprised! We're about to explore how the strategies that make you successful on the pickleball court can also help you thrive in the world of finance.Whether you're a pickleball enthusiast, an investment guru, or someone who's never heard of either, I promise you'll come away from this episode with some valuable insights. Pickleball and Investing: Unexpected Parallels:1. Strategy is Key2. Patience Pays Off3. Diversification Matters2024-10-1814 min