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Why Energy Investments Are Powering the Next Wave of Wealth

Jan 7, 2026

Tom Wheelwright, a seasoned tax advisor and author, joins Michael Mauceli, an oil industry expert from REI Energy, in a compelling discussion on energy investments. They explain why traditional retirement plans often fail to build wealth, emphasizing cash flow and tax strategies in oil and gas investing. The conversation dives into tax benefits for energy investments and how rising demand from AI and infrastructure is reshaping the market. Insights on the risks and advantages of oil and natural gas investments make this a must-listen for aspiring investors.

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ANECDOTE

Kiyosaki's Oil Background

Robert Kiyosaki shares his oil background driving tankers for Standard Oil of California after attending the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.
He uses that experience to explain why he prefers energy investments over paper assets.

INSIGHT

Oil's Powerful Tax Edge

Investing in domestic oil offers immediate, large tax incentives like intangible drilling costs and bonus depreciation.
Only 85% of oil income is taxable, making oil tax-advantaged compared with dividends or 401(k) distributions.

ADVICE

Don’t Put Oil Inside Your 401(k)

Avoid investing in oil through a 401(k) because you lose the direct tax benefits.
Check with your accountant and attorney before moving retirement funds into private oil investments.

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Most people are told that maxing out a 401(k) and waiting for retirement is the safest path to financial security. But what if that system was never designed to make you wealthy? In this episode, Robert Kiyosaki, Tom Wheelwright, and Michael Mauceli break down why traditional retirement plans often favor Wall Street and the government—while real investors focus on cash flow, control, and tax strategy. You'll learn how energy investments, including oil and gas, create income through production instead of speculation, and why the tax code rewards those who invest in real assets. The discussion explores how rising energy demand from AI, data centers, and infrastructure is reshaping the investment landscape, while most savers remain trapped in paper assets that depend on market timing. This episode also explains why cash-flowing assets can provide stability in volatile markets, how tax incentives are used to encourage energy development, and why financial education—not financial products—is the key to long-term wealth. If you want to understand how the wealthy think about investing, taxes, and retirement—and why energy continues to play a critical role in the economy—this conversation will give you a clearer path forward. 00:00 Introduction 02:07 Discussion on Oil Investments and Tax Advantages 05:03 Trump's Actions in Venezuela and Global Implications 07:34 Tax Benefits of Investing in Oil 19:51 Accredited Investors and Minimum Investment Requirements 24:30 Energy Investments Beyond Oil 27:18 Final Thoughts on Oil and Tax Benefits 31:59 Conclusion and Upcoming Events ----- Gold and silver shattered records in 2025 while debt, inflation, and the AI stock bubble pushed the system to its limits. Get the Free Gold and Silver Info Guide and see the three steps to add metals to your IRA or 401(k) tax and penalty free. Call 866-703-9895 or text GUIDE to 24999 for your free guide and portfolio review (U.S. Residents Only). ----- Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be considered as financial advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any financial instrument or engage in any financial activity. The content presented here is based on the speaker's personal opinions and research, which may not always be accurate or up-to-date. Financial markets and investments carry inherent risks, and individuals should conduct their own research and seek professional advice before making any financial decisions.