Du Charme Wealth Management Podcast

Investment decisions should always be contextual, reflecting individual circumstances, goals, and values rather than following generic advice from social media. One person's ideal investment could be completely inappropriate for another depending on their financial situation, risk tolerance, tax position, and time horizon.• Investing isn't one-size-fits-all—a $50k investment means something different to everyone• Generic investment advice fails to consider personal circumstances and values• The "trinity" of investments (risk, return, liquidity) can't all be maximized simultaneously• Buying a business often means buying yourself a job, not passive income• Real estate isn't inherently safe or consistently profitable without careful consideration• Self-directed IRAs are different from self-managed accounts and carry additional complexities• Tax planning should inform investment decisions, especially regarding Roth vs Traditional accounts• Investing in yourself often provides the best return on capital• Time is perhaps the most valuable investment of all—consider how you want to spend itIf you need help understanding how investments fit into your personal financial situation, schedule a consultation at ducharmewealth.com. We work with clients across all 50 states and are always happy to provide a second opinion on your financial plan. [00:00:00] Why Investment Context Matters[00:06:10] The Problem With Simple Investment Answers [00:11:03] Analyzing Social Media Investment Advice [00:17:55] Business Ownership vs. Investment Reality [00:25:01] The Trinity: Risk, Return and Liquidity [00:32:30] Real Estate and Cryptocurrency Considerations [00:38:40] Retirement Accounts and Tax Planning [00:43:12] Closing Thoughts on Personalized Investing 

Success in business depends on investing in people emotionally, personally, and financially—they don't appear out of thin air and aren't free. Measuring performance is the key to accelerating improvement and business growth.• Mark's journey from McDonald's crew member at age 14 to owning 18 franchise locations• McDonald's financial requirements: 25% equity stake, $45,000 franchise fee, and strong cash flow coverage• Franchisees face surprising risks—Mark had his highest revenue year and biggest loss simultaneously during inflation• Working inside a franchise for 18 months before buying provides invaluable operational knowledge at no cost• Choosing established franchises that have weathered economic cycles rather than trendy new concepts• Understanding elasticity and consumer behavior helps navigate price increases and economic changes• Setting clear value-based goals and measuring progress regularly leads to financial success• Creating personal financial statements twice yearly helps track wealth-building progressFind Du Charme Wealth Management here:https://ducharmewealth.com/[00:00:00] The Greatest Asset in Business[00:08:41] From McDonald's Crew to Franchise Owner[00:27:46] Financial Requirements for Franchising[00:37:32] The Hidden Risks of Business Ownership[00:47:12] Economic Challenges and Consumer Behavior[00:57:01] Measuring Success and Setting GoalsDISCLAIMER:Information presented on this program is believed to be factual and up-to-date, but we do not guarantee its accuracy, and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. Discussions and answers to questions do not involve the rendering of personalized investment advice, but are limited to the dissemination of general information. A professional advisor should be consulted before implementing any of the options presented. Encompass More Asset Management LLC is a registered investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and only transacts business in states where it is properly registered, or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements.

Mike Green, CFA, known for his insights on market structure, critiques Bitcoin's inherent flaws. He discusses how Bitcoin's fixed supply creates economic barriers, concentrating wealth while hampering mobility for younger generations. Unlike gold, Bitcoin's scarcity leads to systemic deflation and wealth inequality. The correlation between Bitcoin ETFs and its price raises concerns about intrinsic value. Green highlights the risks of financial engineering by companies like MicroStrategy, questioning Bitcoin's viability as a sustainable investment.

We explore the fundamental aspects of Bitcoin and why it represents a technological advancement in the concept of money. Our discussion ranges from the history of currency to the mechanics of Bitcoin mining, highlighting how Bitcoin's fixed supply addresses the inflationary problems of fiat currencies.• Bitcoin's primary appeal lies in its fixed supply of 21 million coins, creating predictable scarcity unlike fiat currencies• The US dollar and other fiat currencies lose purchasing power over time, making long-term financial planning difficult• Money evolved from direct exchanges to precious metals to paper representations and now to digital currencies• Bitcoin mining involves computers competing to process transactions, receiving rewards that halve approximately every four years• Transaction fees on the Bitcoin network are determined by market forces, with higher fees prioritizing faster processing• By 2148, all Bitcoin will be mined, creating a system that will run entirely on transaction fees rather than block subsidiesFind Du Charme Wealth Management here:https://ducharmewealth.com/[00:00:00] Understanding Bitcoin's Appeal[00:06:07] What Makes Money Valuable?[00:16:10] The Problem with Fiat Currency[00:32:16] Monetary History Evolution[00:42:18] How Bitcoin Mining Works[00:57:38] Bitcoin's Future and Scarcity Model[01:06:19] Final Thoughts and ResourcesDISCLAIMER:Information presented on this program is believed to be factual and up-to-date, but we do not guarantee its accuracy, and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. Discussions and answers to questions do not involve the rendering of personalized investment advice, but are limited to the dissemination of general information. A professional advisor should be consulted before implementing any of the options presented. Encompass More Asset Management LLC is a registered investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and only transacts business in states where it is properly registered, or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements.

Ever wonder why insurance feels like such a drain on your finances? In this eye-opening episode, we break down the "insurance review season" and reveal how properly structured coverage isn't just a necessary evil—it's a strategic wealth-building tool.Most people overlook critical gaps in their coverage while simultaneously overpaying for protection they don't need. We examine how understanding the true purpose of insurance—preventing catastrophic financial setbacks—can transform your approach to wealth building. From life insurance that needs updating as your family changes to homeowners policies that haven't been shopped in decades, we identify the common pitfalls that leave families financially vulnerable.Did you know standard homeowner policies exclude flood and earthquake damage? Or that having a trampoline, swimming pool, dog, or dirt bike dramatically increases your liability exposure? We explore these "financial kill shots" that can devastate even careful savers, and explain why surprisingly affordable supplemental policies like umbrella insurance deserve serious consideration.The most powerful insight comes from understanding our "barbell approach" to financial protection: be ultra-conservative with insurance coverage for true risks while aggressively investing your remaining resources for long-term growth. This balanced strategy prevents the common cycle where middle-class families spend so much on premiums and warranties they can't build meaningful wealth.Whether you're preparing for open enrollment season or simply want to optimize your current coverage, this episode provides a comprehensive framework for making insurance work for your financial future rather than against it. Send us a message for our insurance review checklist, and discover how the right protection strategy can accelerate your path to financial independence.Find Du Charme Wealth Management here:https://ducharmewealth.com/contact-us/Timestamps:[00:00:00] Intro[00:02:55] Life and Long-Term Care Insurance[00:08:12] Home and Auto Insurance Pitfalls[00:15:16] Umbrella Policies and Liability Protection[00:21:40] Health Insurance and Employee Benefits[00:24:55] Optimizing Insurance for Wealth BuildingDISCLAIMER:Information presented on this program is believed to be factual and up-to-date, but we do not guarantee its accuracy, and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. Discussions and answers to questions do not involve the rendering of personalized investment advice, but are limited to the dissemination of general information. A professional advisor should be consulted before implementing any of the options presented. Encompass More Asset Management LLC is a registered investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and only transacts business in states where it is properly registered, or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements.

Life insurance seems straightforward until you encounter the barrage of influencers promising it's your ticket to financial freedom and market-beating returns. These misrepresentations have led many into financial disasters we've witnessed firsthand at our firm.The truth is much simpler: life insurance creates financial protection when you're no longer around to fulfill your obligations. Like car insurance covers your vehicle, life insurance provides your beneficiaries with funds to continue life without your economic contribution. But determining the right amount and type requires thoughtful analysis of your unique situation.We walk through a practical framework for calculating your needs – starting with outstanding debts (mortgage, student loans, auto loans), future expenses (education, childcare), and ongoing income replacement. Don't overlook the substantial economic value of stay-at-home parents, whose contributions often require significant funds to replace. And remember that inflation will erode your death benefit's purchasing power over time, making it crucial to account for real returns (investment returns minus inflation) in your planning.For most people, term insurance provides the perfect solution – affordable coverage for when you need it most, allowing you to invest the difference elsewhere. Permanent insurance (whole life, universal life, indexed universal life) serves legitimate purposes in specific scenarios like estate planning for high-net-worth individuals, but despite aggressive marketing claims, these expensive products rarely make sense for average families.Before purchasing any life insurance, particularly permanent policies, consider reaching out for a second opinion. The right coverage protects those you love without unnecessarily draining your current finances. Your financial plan should determine your insurance needs, not the other way around.Timestamps:[00:00:00] Intro[00:03:20] Understanding Life Insurance Fundamentals[00:06:40] Calculating Your Insurance Needs[00:18:00] Real Returns vs. Inflation Impact[00:27:15] Term vs. Permanent Life Insurance[00:38:20] Legitimate Uses for Permanent Insurance[00:49:10] Term Length ConsiderationsDISCLAIMER:Information presented on this program is believed to be factual and up-to-date, but we do not guarantee its accuracy, and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. Discussions and answers to questions do not involve the rendering of personalized investment advice, but are limited to the dissemination of general information. A professional advisor should be consulted before implementing any of the options presented. Encompass More Asset Management LLC is a registered investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and only transacts business in states where it is properly registered, or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements.

What lies beyond the Hollywood portrayal of hedge funds? Discover the surprising truth about these sophisticated investment strategies that have traditionally been reserved for the world's largest institutional investors.Bob Elliott, former Bridgewater Associates executive who helped manage the world's largest foreign exchange book, pulls back the curtain on how hedge funds actually work. Rather than wild, risky bets, these strategies focus intensely on risk management and creating consistent returns through market conditions that might devastate traditional portfolios.You'll learn why major university endowments and sovereign wealth funds allocate billions to hedge fund strategies despite seemingly modest returns. The answer lies in return consistency and diversification benefits that become apparent precisely when they're needed most - during market downturns and economic uncertainty.We explore the concept of "edge" - the specialized knowledge or systematic approach that allows hedge funds to generate differentiated returns - and the various strategies from global macro to equity long-short that populate the alternative investment landscape. Bob explains how these approaches seek to isolate skill and minimize noise, allowing managers to focus solely on their areas of expertise.Perhaps most exciting for everyday investors, we discuss how the traditional barriers to hedge fund strategies - high fees, tax inefficiency, and high minimums - are being dismantled through new investment vehicles like ETFs. These innovations finally make sophisticated alternative strategies accessible without the drawbacks that have historically eroded returns for investors.Whether you're looking to understand institutional investment approaches or considering how alternatives might fit in your own portfolio, this conversation provides clarity on one of investing's most misunderstood corners. Ready to rethink what diversification really means in today's interconnected markets?Timestamps:[00:00:00] Intro[00:04:01] Breaking Down the "2 and 20" Structure[00:08:48] Who Invests in Hedge Funds and Why[00:15:31] Misconceptions vs. Reality in Performance[00:21:00] Understanding Different Hedge Fund Strategies[00:30:13] Risk Management and Return Consistency[00:37:08] Accessibility and Tax Efficiency ConsiderationsDISCLAIMER:Information presented on this program is believed to be factual and up-to-date, but we do not guarantee its accuracy, and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. Discussions and answers to questions do not involve the rendering of personalized investment advice, but are limited to the dissemination of general information. A professional advisor should be consulted before implementing any of the options presented. Encompass More Asset Management LLC is a registered investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and only transacts business in states where it is properly registered, or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements.

The passive investing revolution has transformed financial markets over the last decade, but at what cost? In this thought-provoking conversation, portfolio manager Seth Cogswell challenges conventional wisdom and examines the hidden risks lurking beneath the surface of today's market structure.When everyone piles into the same stocks through index funds, it creates a self-reinforcing cycle that rewards size rather than quality. As Seth explains, "Passive will be perpetually overweight overvalued companies and perpetually underweight undervalued companies." This market distortion has allowed mega-cap names to dominate returns while leaving potential opportunities in mid-size companies largely ignored.We explore why diversification means more than simply owning different stocks – it requires investments driven by fundamentally different forces. For retirees, this distinction becomes particularly crucial when considering sequence-of-returns risk, a danger often glossed over in the passive investing narrative that emphasizes returns while minimizing discussion of risks.The conversation takes a fascinating turn when examining mid-cap companies, which Seth describes as the market's sweet spot: established enough to provide safety, yet small enough that additional growth can significantly move the needle. These businesses often lack the excitement factor that drives passive flows but may offer compelling value for discerning investors willing to look where others aren't.Perhaps most concerning is how the passive revolution might be reshaping capitalism itself. With unprecedented low interest rates, mega-corporations have enjoyed advantages that smaller, innovative companies cannot access, potentially stifling the entrepreneurial spirit that has historically driven American prosperity.Whether you're rethinking your portfolio allocation or simply curious about market dynamics, this episode offers valuable perspective on finding opportunity while others chase momentum. As events in financial markets continue to unfold, these insights may prove increasingly relevant for navigating whatever comes next.Timestamps:[00:00:00] Intro[00:07:17] Deep Value vs Diversity of Thought[00:14:31] From Trader to Portfolio Manager[00:24:02] The Passive Investing Phenomenon[00:35:23] Risk Management in Retirement[00:48:22] Finding Value in Mid-Cap Companies[01:00:15] Making Thoughtful Investment DecisionsDISCLAIMER:Information presented on this program is believed to be factual and up-to-date, but we do not guarantee its accuracy, and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. Discussions and answers to questions do not involve the rendering of personalized investment advice, but are limited to the dissemination of general information. A professional advisor should be consulted before implementing any of the options presented. Encompass More Asset Management LLC is a registered investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and only transacts business in states where it is properly registered, or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements.

Is hiring the cheapest contractor putting your home—and net worth—at risk? In this episode, master electrician James Martin of Mr. Sparky Electric exposes the hidden dangers of cutting corners on home repairs. Discover how one homeowner’s attempt to save money led to a near-disastrous electrical fire, and learn why unlicensed or uninsured contractors could cost you far more than you expect.What You’ll Learn:- The real risks of hiring unlicensed or uninsured contractors- The three essential steps to verify any home repair professional: licensing, workers’ compensation, and general liability insurance- How failing to vet contractors can leave you liable for injuries, denied insurance claims, and massive out-of-pocket losses- Why keeping records of licensed repairs can protect your insurance claims and boost your financial security- Practical tips for requesting credentials and spotting red flags before you hireWhether you own a modest house or a luxury property, adopting a “wealth mindset” in home maintenance is your best defense. Tune in to learn how to protect your investment, avoid costly mistakes, and gain true peace of mind.Du Charme Wealth Management: https://ducharmewealth.com/

Ever wondered what actually happens to your mortgage after you sign those closing papers? The answer might surprise you.Your home loan embarks on a fascinating journey through financial markets that few borrowers ever see or understand. In this eye-opening conversation with Rob Alphin, a 32-year mortgage industry veteran, we pull back the curtain on the hidden mechanics that power America's uniquely affordable mortgage system.Most homeowners worry about two things: their monthly payment and how much cash they need at closing. But understanding what happens behind the scenes can save you thousands. Rob explains how strategically using seller concessions or builder incentives to "buy down" your interest rate can dramatically reduce your payment. He reveals how increasing or decreasing your rate directly affects closing costs – knowledge that savvy borrowers use to their advantage.The most misunderstood aspect of mortgages? What happens after closing. Your loan doesn't just get "sold" in the traditional sense – it gets pooled with others, securitized into mortgage-backed securities, and potentially fractioned into thousands of investments worldwide. Meanwhile, only the servicing rights (who collects your payments) change hands. This complex system, backed by government entities like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, is why Americans enjoy relatively affordable 30-year fixed mortgages when most other countries don't offer them.Rob also shares insights on rate locks (and why they exist), how mortgage bankers hedge interest rate risk, why some loans are more valuable than others to investors, and emerging mortgage products that could help buyers overcome today's higher rate environment.Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to refinance, this conversation will transform how you approach your next mortgage. Connect with professionals who understand these mechanics and can tailor solutions that align with your long-term financial goals.DISCLAIMER:Information presented on this program is believed to be factual and up-to-date, but we do not guarantee its accuracy, and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. Discussions and answers to questions do not involve the rendering of personalized investment advice, but are limited to the dissemination of general information. A professional advisor should be consulted before implementing any of the options presented. Encompass More Asset Management LLC is a registered investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and only transacts business in states where it is properly registered, or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements.