Episodes
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Have you received an inheritance recently? Or have you been thinking about how to leave one? In this episode, Kevin and Charlie tackle key questions about inheritance, covering everything you need to know—whether you're inheriting or passing on assets. From new legislation to strategies that help both you and your beneficiaries maximize your wealth, this episode will give you a powerful roadmap for navigating the process today and in the future.
Take The Pilot Wealth Index to find out if you are on track for retirement!
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/mtuc9zev
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Curious about strategies pilots can use to maximize tax efficiency? In this episode, we’re tackling hard-hitting tax numbers, future-focused savings strategies, and essential tax changes on the horizon, especially for those over 60. You’ll learn the ins and outs of tax deductions, even on W-2 income, and tips for maximizing tax-efficient retirement income. We’ll also cover the benefits of backdoor Roth contributions, health savings accounts (HSAs), and charitable donations to reduce taxable income.
Take The Pilot Wealth Index to find out if you are on track for retirement!
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/3aedvek6
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Missing episodes?
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Should you get into real estate investing? In this episode, we sit down with former Top Gun Navy and Air Force fighter pilot—and current UPS pilot—Micah Porter, aka Peachez. He joins us today to discuss his transition into real estate investing, sharing his motivation for entering the real estate market and why real estate became his side gig.
Take The Pilot Wealth Index to find out if you are on track for retirement!
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/uv43zupa -
What does it really take to be successful with money? In this episode, we dive into key insights from The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel, discussing principles that can help transform your relationship with money. Whether you're preparing for retirement or simply trying to make smarter financial decisions, these lessons apply to everyone. You'll learn why discipline is crucial, how to face the reality of your financial choices, and why success can sometimes be your worst teacher.
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/y5besksw
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How much influence does a president truly have over the stock market? In this episode, we dive deep into the relationship between presidential powers and market performance, examining how different administrations impact the economy. While many believe the president has significant control over the markets, we explore whether the data backs that up, and how much external factors really shape the financial landscape.
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/3ehxpejd
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How does the Federal Reserve shape the economy, and what should you really know about its role? In this episode, Seema Sheth, Senior Vice President and Regional Executive of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, joins the conversation to share insights on how the Fed looks beyond the data to understand the bigger picture. She discusses her unique path to success and the importance of focusing on what you truly want to achieve rather than conforming to others' expectations.
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/2vn2t69b
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How can you become the multi-millionaire pilot next door? In this episode, we discuss the principles of wealth building, inspired by the timeless lessons from the book The Millionaire Next Door. We’ll explore how pilots, with our unique income trajectories and financial challenges, can apply these principles to build substantial wealth over time.
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/bdzxpwwd
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Is the market overvalued and on the brink of an implosion? Join us as we dive into the intricacies of market valuation and investment strategies. In this episode, we’re tackling some of the pressing questions about whether the market is currently overvalued, what market valuation metrics mean, and how investors can navigate these uncertain times.
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/96s6cshy
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As the sun sets on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the financial landscape for many, including our pilot community, is poised for significant changes. Join us as we dive into the upcoming tax reforms set for 2026 and how they may impact your finances.
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/5bd9ndjm
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What exactly is an activist investor, and how do they influence the companies they invest in? In this episode, we are joined by Andy Christopher, CFA, Lead Financial Planner, to explore the world of activist investors. You'll learn about their roles, the impact they have on companies, and whether they typically boost returns or create concerns.
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/2kztm2be
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Are you chasing the right goals and prioritizing what truly makes you happy? In this episode, we discuss the importance of setting goals that align with your joy and fulfillment. Often, we achieve goals only to find that they don't bring the happiness we expected. It's essential to consciously identify what brings you joy rather than blindly following the paths others are on. We'll explore how to avoid the pitfalls of setting the wrong goals and the impact it can have on your overall well-being.
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/5fcsy44y
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How can aviation play a pivotal role in combating human trafficking? In this episode, Jared Miller, CEO and Co-Founder of Freedom Aviation Network (FAN), joins us to share the mission and impact of his organization. FAN is pioneering efforts to transport survivors of human trafficking and their advocates, offering their services completely free of charge. Listen in to learn how pilots volunteer their time and skills, and aircraft owners contribute their resources, to provide essential support for counter-human trafficking efforts, ensuring survivors reach safe shelters.
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/mry253yy
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Are you struggling to gain control of your spending and align it with your true values? In this episode, we explore a complete mindset shift to improve how you think about money. Lisa Rosenthal, Chief Operating Officer at Leading Edge Financial Planning, joins us to discuss how spending can impact marriages, lead to mistakes, and incur opportunity costs—both financial and emotional. Listen in to learn five strategies to align your spending with your mindset, how to align your money with your goals, and more.
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/5n86p3y4
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Have you ever considered buying a plane? In this episode, we dive into the complexities of such a decision and why it can't just be about saving on taxes. Contrary to popular belief, setting up an LLC or another corporation may not provide the tax benefits you expect. We explore the criteria for tax deductions and why expenses must be reasonable and directly related to business purposes. Additionally, we discuss the importance of evaluating your plans for using the plane, frequency of use, and geographical considerations to determine if buying is the best option.
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/mvwvnczs
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How do you navigate the complexities of the economy and stock market? Andy Christopher, CFA, joins the show to shed light on the relationship between the two and provide insights into predicting market entry points with precision. In this episode, we aim to dispel common myths surrounding market dynamics to help you to protect your investments. From clarifying the role of the Fed to debunking misconceptions about presidential influence on markets, Andy offers practical advice on understanding and preparing for market fluctuations.
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/3zbbpas3
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Are you contemplating whether to enlist the expertise of a financial advisor as your income rises? In this episode, we dive into the pivotal question: Should you hire a financial advisor? We discuss how to evaluate and question potential advisors, shedding light on the crucial questions you must ask before making a decision.
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/bd22j86d
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Today we're diving deep into credit card points, sharing highlights for both seasoned collectors and newcomers alike. Joining us is Mary Graves, who shares her journey into the world of point collection and how it can pave the way for a fulfilling retirement. Discover the strategic moves necessary to accumulate points without depleting your savings, and learn how to leverage them effectively for travel experiences.
You can find full show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/3rr3hjsm
1 - Sign up bonus – Frequent Miler. Greg the Frequent Miler has a blog, a podcast, and a FB Insiders group – all for no cost. And he does a really good job of explaining programs with equal attention to the downsides as the benefits. Frequent Miler posts an updated page of best offers. This is the best place to check for all credit card offers BEFORE signing up – except for the BILT card. BILT is the only credit card that awards transferable points for rent payments. BILT does not have a structured SUB – but usually offers 5X points for all purchases up to 50,000 points for 5 days. This is a significant offer and way to earn lots of BILT points – so plan accordingly. If you’d like to apply for a no AF BILT card – please consider using my referral code: https://bilt.page/r/Z5N7-WTUX - I will receive 2500 BILT points for referring.
2 – Ongoing points multipliers and promos – check app or website – example BILT earns 3X points for travel (6X on the 1st of each month) but Amex Platinum earns 5X on airfare and offers travel insurance. Citi Premier is a great everyday card because it offers 3X at gas, grocery & travel with a $95 AF. AMEX gold gets 4X at grocery stores and restaurants up to $25,000 spend annually with a $250 AF.
3 – Credits for services such as Global Entry, Nexxus, Clear – most cards that offer the Global Entry credit only allow it’s use once every 5 years – but Clear reimbursement usually is annually. GE is used to re-enter USA faster but it also affords the holder to TSA pre-check on all flights – domestic and international.
4 – Credits for travel and/or miscellaneous items – AMEX plat, Venture X – example Venture X comes with a $300 travel credit (used through the Venture X travel portal – so maybe not worth $300 in the wild) to help offset the $395 AF and Amex personal platinum has a $200 airline credit (I use mine annually to deposit into my United travel bank) and a $200 hotel credit when booking a hotel through the AMEX Fine Hotel & Resort collection (these can range from $100/night to $1600+/night and include free upgrades, breakfast, and a $100 hotel credit) to help offset the $695 AF.
5 – Fast track to elite status – Hilton Diamond via Amex Aspire, etc. – the AMEX Hilton Surpass offers Hilton Diamond Status which gives holder free breakfast & lounge access outside of US and a breakfast credit within US for $150 AF.
6 – Free bag checks, inflight purchase discounts, free companion pass – SW companion pass available when you earn 135,000 SW points in a single calendar year or complete 100 flights. This pass can last up to 2 calendar years depending on when in the year you earn it and allows you to bring one person free (+ $5.60 fee) on any flight you are one (whether paid or award ticket) as long as there is at least one seat (at any price level) left on the plane. Couples that use this pass report their savings as high as $3,000 per year. Annual fees for SW credit cards range from 0 - $199 per year.
7 – Travel insurance, lost baggage insurance, rental car primary insurance – this has been scaling back over the last few years but the two best cards for this are the AMEX platinum (business or personal) and the Chase Sapphire Reserve.
8 – Lounge access – Amex Centurion, Capital One Lounges, Chase Sapphire Lounges – Priority Pass is available with several cards like Venture X, Amex Plat, US Bank Altitude Reserve & Connect Visas, BOA Premium Rewards Elite Card. The more inclusive Priority Pass Select is available with Venture X and Chase Sapphire Reserve.
9 – Curated experiences – Bilt, Chase, Citi – Chase will set up a hospitality tent at a music festival or sporting event.
10 – Free night certificates for hotels – Marriott certs can range from 30K – 85K point value and you can “top off” a free night cert w/ up to 15K Marriott points. Hilton free night certs are considered the most valuable in the industry because they can be used for any Hilton property regardless of price or points as long as there is standard room inventory available.
If you’d like to see where my points take me – feel free to follow me on IG @mary3graves or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mary.graves.923/
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With airlines finalizing new contracts and increased 401(k) contributions, the question of whether to invest in a Roth IRA has become a hot topic among pilots. In this episode, we aim to provide clarity on this complex decision and offer guidance tailored to various scenarios and limitations. From understanding who can contribute to a Roth IRA to delving into the concept of Roths, we explore considerations for first officers.
You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/38ywhkfd
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Did you know that you're leaving a legacy, whether you realize it or not? Join us for an eye-opening discussion on legacy planning with Jon Cremer, Financial Advisor. In this episode, we dive into the impact of intentional legacy planning and why it's crucial to start thinking about it sooner rather than later.
You can find show notes, resources and more at: http://tinyurl.com/mryv6ysa
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Are you ready to explore the dynamic world of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)? Dr. John Worth is an expert in economics and the Executive Vice President of Research and Investment Outreach in a REIT, and he joins us to share his deep understanding of REITs, their crucial role in a diversified portfolio, and how they perform in today's economic environment.
You can find show notes, resources and more at: http://tinyurl.com/mzw84wsh
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