Shows
Great PointsPanel Discussion: Buying your First HomeOn today's episode of Great Points, Matt Schroeder has an all-star cast of guests to discuss the first time home buying experience from beginning to end. Realtors Shea Pilsbury and Matt Munson (Munson Realty Group) join Mortgage Advisor Jeff Rolke (Gold Coast Mortgage) and Real Estate Attorney Michael Osborne (Michael Osborne Law). They cover everything from the first steps you should take, all to way to the closing date. Along the way, the group highlights some things to watch out for, things you may not have considered, and how to engage professionals you can trust. Whether you are the fir...2025-03-2459 minGreat PointsHow can planning help me minimize the impact of capital gains taxes?On today's episode, Matt walks through a scenario many investors encounter after periods of strong growth: owing capital gains taxes. If you have investments in a non-retirement account where your growth is subject to capital gains tax, you likely have some gains from the last few years of market growth. While no tax is due until you realize those gains, there is also the possibility that your portfolio is no longer in the desired ratio of stocks to bonds. How can you rebalance your portfolio without incurring a hefty tax bill? Matt covers some of the considerations to determine the...2025-03-0315 minGreat PointsIs it a good idea to help my adult child to buy a home?On today's episode of Great Points, Matt addresses a common question: does it make sense to help an adult child to purchase a home? With Real Estate prices significantly outpacing inflation over the past few decades, gifting may be one pathway to help your child afford a home. However, it's worth asking whether you can reasonably afford to help and--maybe more importantly--if you should. Matt walks through some of the considerations to make the right choice for you.2025-02-1827 minGreat PointsConversation with Property Manager, Shawn GrenierOn today's episode of Great Points, continuing with the theme of Real Estate, Matt speaks with Shawn Grenier. Shawn is the founder of Real Property Management Reliance, specializing in helping clients manage rental properties in the North Shore of Massachusetts. Matt and Shawn talk about some of the challenges of managing your own rental property, especially when it's a second home or your only property. While it may seem easy to manage one property, it can be hard to deal with vacancies, repairs, and legal concerns. Even if you are a "Snow Bird" considering renting one or both of your...2025-01-0632 minGreat PointsLove it or List it, with Realtors Shea and Matt MunsonOn today's episode, Matt speaks with realtors Shea and Matt Munson of Munson Realty Group. Inspired by the TV show "Love it or List it", Matt speaks with his guests about some of the reasons people might make a housing change, especially in or near retirement age. From relocating, to adding an in-law suite, to downsizing, there is no one size fits all approach. But a bit of forethought can drastically reduce the chance of buyer's or seller's remorse.2024-12-0944 minGreat PointsConsidering a career as a Financial Advisor?On today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks about what it's like to work as a Financial Advisor. If you are a college student or young professional considering a career in Financial Planning or Advice, this episode is a must listen. From career path, to skills needed, to compensation, Matt covers a lot of the questions you may ask about the profession.2024-11-1830 minGreat PointsTales from the Barber Shop: Buying a car and using your time wiselyOn today's episode, Matt takes his inspiration from conversations overheard while at the Barber Shop. The first situation involves whether or not to buy a car. What are the considerations and what does the math say? On the second, Matt reflects on how using just a small amount of your recreation time towards personal finances or earning income could significantly change your trajectory.2024-10-0818 minGreat PointsTalking Financial Literacy with BU Student, Ben BrosnahanOn today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks with Boston University sophomore, Benjamin Brosnahan. Ben is an Economics major at BU, and also runs workshops for fellow students on improving financial literacy. In this wide ranging conversation, Matt and Ben talk about some practical tips for teaching financial literacy, the power of starting early, the importance of budgeting as a foundational skill, and much more. If you are interested in learning more for yourself, or you are looking to teach others about personal finances, this episode is a great resource to get started.2024-09-2338 minGreat PointsGetting Intentional about Charitable GivingOn today's episode, Matt talks about how to get more intentional and effective with your charitable giving. For many, giving is a part of their budget, even if it's not necessarily pre-planned. What if you were to focus on making charitable giving part of your financial plan? How much can you afford to give and how can you narrow down which causes to support? While many people feel they don't have enough to make a meaningful impact, Matt lays out some ways you can maximize your contributions to causes you care about.2024-07-2919 minGreat PointsI'm going on vacation, would it make sense to buy a vacation home instead of renting?On today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks about renting versus buying a vacation home. If you have a favorite place that you plan to go for many years, what do the numbers tell us about renting a property versus buying? What are some of the major economic considerations? Matt also covers some of the non-monetary parts of the decision making process so that you can make the right decision for you and your family.2024-07-1716 minGreat PointsInterview with Eric Brotman, CFP® Professional and AuthorOn today's episode, Matt has a great conversation with Eric Brotman, the CEO of BFG Financial Advisors based in Maryland. Eric and Matt talk about a wide array of topics. They discuss why Financial Literacy is still chronically underprioritized, how retirement doesn't have to be the end of meaningful work, and what is the future of college education. In addition to his career as a Financial Advisor, Eric has built a media company to reach people who may not have access to professional advice, including a book and podcast called "Don't Retire...Graduate!" 2024-05-2734 minGreat PointsShould I change my investment strategy?On today's episode of Great Points, Matt reacts to a recent ad he saw that said, "Does your portfolio need a 180?" What are some of the questions you should be asking yourself when you see such an ad? It may be tempting to make a snap decision when things change, but Matt lays out some ideas to help sift through the noise and resist making changes for the wrong reasons.2024-05-2311 minGreat PointsBasics of Estate Planning with Steve DiGregorioOn today's episode, Matt talks with Stephen DiGregorio, the founder and owner of "Protecting your Assets LLC," a legal firm focused on Estate Planning. Matt and Steve talk about what it means to have an estate plan, and they take on some misconceptions people frequently have. What is a Health Care Proxy or a Springing Power of Attorney? Whether you have $50 in the bank or $10 million in assets, knowing some of the basics of estate planning is vital to protecting you and your loved ones.2024-02-0848 minGreat PointsIs College worth the cost?On today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks about whether college is worth the cost and he gives some examples of the right questions to ask. What are some things to consider before deciding to enroll in an expensive college education? What are the other options? As with many financial decisions, there is not just one right answer, but having a plan and doing some calculations can help you find the right answer for you.2024-02-0517 minGreat PointsLessons from Schitt's Creek: Talking to your kids about moneyOn today's episode of Great Points, fresh off re-watching Schitt's Creek, Matt talks through some of the money lessons that came to mind. How can you raise your kids to understand money? Matt shares some tips for helping your children understand the value of a dollar. Whether they are young kids, recent graduates, or mid-career professionals who may inherit some money, communication is key.2024-01-1825 minGreat PointsCash or credit?On today's episode of Great Points, Matt reacts to an article he read on LinkedIn about supporting local by paying in cash. Is paying in cash actually better for a business? And more importantly, what makes more sense for you? Matt talks through the psychology of using cash versus credit and some tips for making the most of both approaches.2024-01-1819 minGreat PointsWhat can we learn from Barry Sanders, former NFL running back?On today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks about some of the financial planning lessons he learned from watching Bye Bye Barry, the documentary about the life and career of Barry Sanders. While one of the best running backs of all time, Barry Sanders is perhaps most famous for retiring while still in his prime. Why did Barry give up the game when he was the peak of his earning power? Listen to learn more about the value of "running your own race" and deciding how much is enough for you.2023-12-1117 minGreat PointsIt's giving season...how can giving back fit in my plan?On today's episode of Great Points, Matt Schroeder and Brandon Parker talk about the giving season and how you can include charitable giving in your plan. The holiday season is a great time of year to give back to your community, so listen in for some tips to maximize the impact of your contribution, whether monetary or otherwise! 2023-12-0428 minGreat PointsBusiness Succession Planning with guest Bill HooperOn today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks to Bill Hooper, who recently sold his business after 20+ years. They talk about Bill's experience as a business owner, and ultimately what made him decide to sell. They also talk in depth about the sale process, owner financing, and what comes after "retiring" from your business . If you are a business owner, or even just considering retirement, this episode is for you.2023-11-1342 minGreat PointsAt 5% interest or more, are CDs as good a deal as they seem right now?On today's episode, Matt talks about how Certificates of Deposit work and some of the pros and cons of buying them. While an annual yield of 5% sounds attractive in a vacuum, what are some of the things to consider before buying CDs?2023-11-0616 minGreat PointsThe Holiday Season is approaching, here are some tips for staying within your budgetOn today's episode of Great Points, Matt and his colleague Brandon discuss some tips and ideas for helping to stay within your budget during the holiday season. It's tricky to say no to family, friends, and charities, but what are some ways you can still manage to be generous without breaking the bank?2023-10-3020 minGreat PointsSpecial Live Episode: Financial Conversations from the Barber ShopOn today's episode, Matt records in front of a live audience to talk about a few conversations he's overheard in the Barber shop. First he discusses a case where a couple is moving in together and trying to decide whether they should rent out their second condo versus sell it. Next, Matt talks about a man who moved his whole portfolio to CDs this year. Did these folks do the right thing? And what questions should you ask yourself before taking a stranger's advice?2023-10-1208 minGreat PointsOpen Enrollment: Spend a few minutes reviewing your benefits this fallOn today's episode, Matt and Brandon discuss "Open Enrollment" and how to decide which benefits to enroll in through your employer. While insurance may not be the most exciting topic, enrolling in the right coverage for you can pay huge dividends down the road. Learn about deductibles, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), disability insurance, and more to help decide what benefits fit your unique financial situation.2023-10-0927 minGreat PointsConsidering a job change? Here are some things to think aboutOn today's episode, Matt and Brandon discuss what to look for when changing jobs. Whether you are hoping for a pay raise, thinking of getting an advanced degree, or looking to do something entirely different, what are some of the key things to consider?2023-09-1123 minGreat PointsLimited time to dedicate to your household finances? Here's where to focus your energyOn today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks about how to make the most of the time you spend working on your personal finances. Is it on investment returns, cash flow, or something else?2023-08-2817 minGreat PointsAugust Exercise: Check in on your goalsOn today's episode of Great Points, Matt and Brandon discuss goal setting and how you can create an actionable plan to reach those goals. Whether you have existing goals you've let lapse a bit, or you want to set new ones, creating accountability will help you stay on track.2023-08-0122 minGreat PointsIs it time to shed my Golden Handcuffs?On today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks a little about deferred compensation, fringe benefits, and other employee benefits that are designed to "lock you in" to your current employer. When is it time to walk away from a job, and how should we think about leaving money on the table when we do?2023-07-2417 minGreat PointsCould I actually spend....more money?On today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks about a fairly common challenge for very future oriented people...how can they actually spend their money and not feel guilty about it? By bucketing out "fun money", you or your thrifty loved one can enjoy some responsible spending without putting long-term goals at risk.2023-07-1715 minGreat PointsWhat should I read at the beach or pool this summer?On this episode of Great Points, Matt and Brandon discuss some books they've recently read that you can take to the beach or wherever you do your reading. They discuss a couple lighter options, and also a few for those who want to go deeper on their financial learning. "Psychology of Money" by Morgan Housel"Your Money and Your Brain" by Jason Zweig"Your Money or Your Life" by Vicky Robin and Joe Dominguez"Financial Intelligence" by Doug Lennick"Think and Grow Rich" by Napoleon Hill2023-07-0516 minGreat PointsThree Questions with Jason Roberts, Salesperson and Father of FourOn today's episode of Great Points, Matt answers three questions from his friend and former colleague Jason Roberts of Oracle. Jason is wondering how he can possibly manage to pay for 4 kids to go to college, what he should do with his Employee Stock Purchase Plan, and whether a Roth conversion would be right for him?2023-06-2636 minGreat PointsIs the idea of retirement changing?On today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks about some of the traditional assumptions we make about retirement, and what are some other options available. What if retirement isn't just about working until 65 and then stopping cold turkey?2023-06-1215 minGreat PointsThe Art of Networking: it's not just for job seekersOn today's episode, Matt talks with colleague Brandon Parker about the value of networking, especially early in your career. Whether you work in sales, the trades, or even work at a big Fortune 500 company, expanding your network has many benefits beyond just finding your next job. Matt and Brandon discuss some strategies for building relationships and how building a network can open doors you may not have expected.2023-06-0725 minGreat PointsThree Questions with Life Coach Sharon BillingsOn today's episode, Matt speaks with Sharon Billings, Life Coach and Founder of Blue Compass Life. They talk about some behavioral challenges people face in life and personal finance. What are some of the myths or mental blocks that hold people back? Are there different patterns for different genders or generations? 2023-05-3137 minGreat PointsWith inflation still so high, should I own I bonds?On today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks in depth about Inflation Bonds (i bonds) and how they may fit into your investment portfolio. Much like CDs, these instruments are paying higher rates than they have in years, but understanding how they work and the risks associated can help you make the best choice for your circumstances.2023-05-2613 minGreat PointsIs buying a house a good investment in today's housing market?On today's episode of Great Points, Matt analyzes the current state of the housing market and how to decide the right path for you. The decision to buy a house is complex, and there are many things to think about. Here are some factors to consider and calculations that can help you make an informed decision you won't regret later.2023-05-2417 minGreat PointsThree Questions with wellness coach, Heather TharpeOn today's episode, Matt talks with Heather Tharpe, a licensed wellness coach and hypnotherapist based in Wenham, MA. Heather asks Matt about how to overcome fear of investment loss, how to prepare for a working retirement, and how to live her life today without worrying about tomorrow, with a few pop culture references mixed in. They also cover house downsizing considerations and how to approach planning for her children as they become adults. 2023-05-1531 minGreat PointsMarket Chat with Pete Disch: How can we make sense of recent headlines?On today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks with Great Point Wealth Advisors founder and Chief Investment Officer, Pete Disch, about recent news regarding the US economy. They touch on inflation, the market's reaction to recent economic data, and reading recommendations to become a better investor.2023-05-1130 minGreat PointsMonthly Financial Exercise: Complete an Annual Investment CheckupOn today's episode of Great Points, Matt and Brandon talk about different investment options in your retirement plan or brokerage account and how to align your investment strategy to your goals. Whether you are a new investor just opening your first investment account, or a seasoned investor with years of experience, spending just 15-30 minutes to review your investments annually can help you stay on track.2023-05-0926 minGreat PointsWhen is it the right time for me to retire?In this episode of Great Points, Matt talks about the different considerations that go into retiring. Your financial situation plays a role, but what other things might factor into your decision?2023-04-1127 minGreat PointsMonthly Financial Exercise: Summer Budget PlanningOn today's episode, Matt is joined by colleague Brandon Parker to discuss how to avoid a summertime spending spike. They talk about some common pitfalls and how to say no when those inevitable last minute invites come up.2023-04-0319 minGreat PointsSeason 4 Episode 9: Deep Dive on Medicare with Randy GregoryOn today's episode, Matt is joined by Randy Gregory of Aetna Medicare. They talk about Medicare coverage options and how to figure out what coverage is right for you.2023-03-1628 minGreat PointsSeason 4 Episode 8: Interview with Dr. Joe Coughlin, Director of MIT AgeLabOn today's episode, Matt interviews Dr. Joe Coughlin, professor at MIT's department of Urban Studies and Planning, Director of MIT AgeLab, and author of 'The Longevity Economy'. They talk about the Dr. Joe's research on aging, the future of retirement, and ways to maximize quality of life as we age.2023-03-1333 min