Talking Real Money - Investing Talk

Simple, sensible advice of making, saving, investing, and protecting your money.

Author: Don McDonald

Financial talk radio veteran, Don McDonald and former host of Serious Money on PBS, Tom Cock, join forces to talk about real money issues. In each episode, they solve real money problems, dole out real investing (not speculating) advice, and really explain the financial issues that effect all of us. Plus, it's actually fun! Talking Real Money is a podcast designed to provide the real help we all need to enjoy a really great future. Call in with your questions anytime at 855-935-TALK (8255).
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Language: en

Genres: Business, Education, How To, Investing

Contact email: Get it

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Qs and Stuff
Friday, 17 April, 2026

A wide-ranging Q&A episode tackles the real-world tradeoffs investors actually face: whether Paul Merriman’s aggressive small/value “ultimate” portfolio is worth the complexity and risk, how much stock to put in scary online bank reviews versus FDIC reality, and how to find advice when you don’t want someone managing your money. Don also explains why FAFSA tricks with traditional IRA contributions don’t work, how to control capital gains taxes using specific share identification, and—somehow—confirms he was the voice behind a powerful Auschwitz exhibit. Practical, skeptical, and very Don.0:05 Friday Q&A intro and how to submit questions1:49 Merriman 10-fund portfolio vs “owning the market”5:21 Don confirms Auschwitz exhibit voiceover work6:54 Bread Savings reviews, withdrawal limits, and FDIC reality9:38 Finding tax-only retirement advice (CPA vs hourly planner vs EA)12:05 FAFSA myth: traditional IRA won’t lower aid eligibility13:55 Selling ETFs: minimizing taxes with specific lot selection17:01 Podcast hosting quirks and MP3 download workaroundQuestions? Comments? Click!