Risk Parity Radio

In this episode we answer emails from Niek, Dustin, Dale, Hydromod and .  We discuss adopting a golden ratio mix and not having unrealistic expectations, the plusses and minuses of the AI-version-of-you fad, the new website and why trying to use gold futures for leverage might not be the best choice for your gambling problem.Link:  Father McKenna Center Donation Page:  Donate - Father McKenna CenterBreathless Unedited AI-Bot Summary:Ever had a month where nearly everything in your portfolio rose and wondered if the universe broke? We unpack why September’s across-the-board lift made sense in a weaker-dollar world, what temporary positive correlation looks like in practice, and how a golden ratio-style allocation helps you ride the wave without refreshing your account every hour.A listener’s note from the road kicks off a candid conversation about trusting diversified portfolios and ignoring daily noise. From there, we dig into the hype and hazards of AI finance gurus—yes, including Ray Dalio’s “digital Ray.” We talk usefulness, accuracy gaps, and the risk of forming unhealthy attachments to bots that sound wise but miss nuance. Along the way, we challenge a popular myth: that copying successful people’s habits will unlock their results. Extraordinary investors aren’t great because they make their beds; they’re great because they’re extraordinarily skilled. For the rest of us, evidence-based allocations, low costs, and sensible rebalancing are the habits that pay.We also get practical. You’ll hear our simple distribution shortcut (divide by 240 for a 5% annualized monthly draw), plus a tour of our streamlined website with faster search and full transcripts. Then we roll up our sleeves on gold exposure: why futures create rollover and curve headaches, when ETFs and return-stacked funds can be smarter, and how modest, low-cost margin—or leveraging equities instead—can open room for diversifiers like gold and managed futures. The throughline is clarity over complexity: build a portfolio that bends without breaking, whether the dollar dips, inflation flares, or correlations get weird for a while.If this resonates, follow the show, leave a quick review, and share it with a friend who’s wrestling with allocation choices. Your questions shape future episodes—send them our way and join the conversation.Support the show

In this episode we answer emails from Jimmy, Anonymous and Matthew.  We discuss financing a home with portfolio leverage via ETFs or margin, revel in the generosity of our listeners and real-life encounters, and review a risk parity style portfolio and plan.  And touch on our recent vacation to South Africa.And THEN we our go through our weekly portfolio reviews of the eight sample portfolios you can find at Portfolios | Risk Parity Radio.Additional Links:Father McKenna Center Donation Page:  Donate - Father McKenna CenterNew Father McKenna Center YouTube Channel:  Father McKenna Center - YouTubeSOAR Gala Information:  2025 Washington DC Awards Gala - SOAR! - Support Our Aging ReligiousBreathless Unedited AI-Bot Summary:  A near-miss with lions on safari sets the stage for a different kind of risk: how to fund a new home when most of your wealth sits in a taxable portfolio. We dive straight into the trade-offs between selling positions, taking a margin loan at a low-cost broker, or using a return-stacked ETF like RSST to maintain exposure while freeing up cash. The core question isn’t just, “Can I do this?” but “Can I live with it through a full market cycle?” We break down taxes, financing costs, and the behavior premium that separates clever from fragile.From there, we build a clean, high-conviction risk parity allocation anchored in three pillars—stocks, Treasuries, and gold—and show why that can be enough to lift a safe withdrawal rate if you respect correlation math and rebalance discipline. Within equities, we pair large-cap growth with small value and international value to spread factor and regional risk. In the bond sleeve, we weigh a simple one-fund approach against a two-fund split (VGIT + VGLT) for small fee and flexibility gains. We also get practical on withdrawals: monthly trims from winners can quietly rebalance your portfolio while matching real-life bills, while quarterly or annual withdrawals suit planners who prefer fewer moves and more cash on hand.Finally, we pull up the dashboard. Gold’s massive run challenges narratives that cherry-pick 1980 as a starting point; bonds have life; small value lags; and our sample portfolios highlight why diversification and costs matter more than headlines. The classics keep compounding, while the leveraged set underscores that concentration plus leverage is a rough mix, and thoughtful “return stacking” needs clear rules and flexible spending. If you’re weighing a home purchase, chasing a higher safe withdrawal rate, or simply trying to keep your strategy steady, you’ll find concrete steps you can use today.Enjoy the conversation? Follow the show, leave a quick review, and share this episode with a friend who’s planning a big financial move.Support the show

They dive into transitioning from a high-equity portfolio to a risk parity approach, especially with limited 401(k) options. A critical look at retirement calculators reveals their shortcomings and risks with parameterized returns. The playful discussion on bucket strategies questions their actual financial impact, highlighting their role as psychological tools rather than performance enhancers. Listeners gain valuable insights into navigating retirement planning complexities along the way.

Join a deep dive into retirement planning where a data-driven approach meets real-life application with Mr. Bill. Explore the vital difference between risk and uncertainty in forecasting, crucial for financial success. Discover innovative strategies for portfolio management, including an emphasis on risk parity and thoughtful asset allocation. The discussion also highlights maximizing spending while maintaining flexibility in withdrawals. Plus, get insights on investment portfolios that are thriving in a bullish market.

Dive into the world of managed futures, a powerful yet misunderstood tool for diversifying investment portfolios. The hosts explore Bill Bengen's latest insights on retirement strategies, emphasizing the importance of incorporating uncorrelated asset classes. They also critically assess the pros and cons of Vanguard's personal advisory services, highlighting the complexities and pitfalls of relying on a single institution for financial advice. Listener engagement adds a personal touch, as discussions revolve around achieving financial independence and optimizing portfolio strategies.

Listeners will be delighted as a generous fundraising effort for the Father McKenna Center brings in over $66,000. The hosts humorously dissect the pitfalls of financial advisors, exposing their calculator dependency and lack of curiosity. Technology is highlighted as an ally, with AI tools like Copilot elevating risk parity strategies. Engaging stories, including a whimsical ferry tale, underscore the community spirit. Portfolio performance reviews reveal the crucial role of gold, encouraging smart investment strategies for DIY enthusiasts.

Listeners dive into a lively discussion about small cap value investment and the unpredictable nature of financial markets. The hosts critique radio personalities' misleading advice while exploring the complexities of portfolio management. Insights on adapting investment strategies highlight the debate between traditional 60/40 portfolios and modern alternatives. Personal stories and listener interactions add charm, including advice on planning financial futures for special needs children. Humor and candid dialogue keep the conversation engaging and enlightening.

Dive into the fascinating world of international investments as the hosts dissect the true drivers of stock performance, especially the impact of currency fluctuations. They provide fresh insights into new Vanguard ETFs and answer listener questions about optimizing international portfolios. A Canadian nomad seeks advice, while portfolio reviews showcase diverse strategies and highlight market performance for August 2025. Humor and engaging discussions keep the exploration lively, making complex financial concepts accessible and entertaining.

Listeners dive into the nuances of transitioning investment strategies as they approach financial independence. A critique of popular financial media reveals the need for deeper understanding over convenience. Joy in creative pursuits is celebrated, highlighting the importance of personal fulfillment beyond money. A guest from a nonprofit sheds light on the complexities of homelessness, advocating for compassion and community support. Engaging listener emails add a personal touch to the discussion, making for an entertaining and informative experience.

Dive into the fascinating world of investments as the hosts unravel the importance of historical data over simulated predictions. They tackle questions about managing inherited IRAs and 529 plans, highlighting key tax implications. Get ready for a nod to Cleveland’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the joy of iconic music moments. They also review various portfolios, revealing promising trends in the current market. Expect engaging insights sprinkled with humor and a glimpse of exciting changes ahead!