Trading should not be a solo venture, even if it sometimes feels that way.  In this episode, I present a framework for holding a fun and productive meetup or online trading session with other investors.  It’s important to discuss the markets with other...

If you’re totally new to self-directed investing, or you’re expanding beyond basic retirement accounts, now may be a good time to open a new account.  Here’s what you need to know to get started, including: where to go, how much to deposit,

In this episode, I introduce the US income tax provisions that apply to personal investors and traders.  I’ve got 10 years of experience compiling and filing my own tax returns on these activities, so I’ve got the real-world know-how to help you make s...

Wise investors know that it’s a good thing to keep a portion of assets in cash-equivalents at all times, but do we really have to settle for paltry interest rates like 0.01%?  Absolutely not.  In this episode,

Real estate packs a powerful punch for your portfolio.  By purchasing shares of a real estate investment trust (REIT), any investor can easily gain access to this vast and powerful asset class.  REITs are especially good for younger people or renters w...

Gold is the one and only investment that I strongly believe every investor needs in their portfolio at all times.  However, don’t go overboard and don’t fall for sales pitches that are meant to frighten you into buying gold.

The mainstream advice on using 401(k), 403(b), IRA, and Roth IRA accounts to build wealth is flat-out wrong if you want to retire early or achieve financial independence.  I talk through the reasons why you should limit your use of these types of accou...

In this episode, I go through the most common goals that investors seek to achieve and teach you how to use the financial markets to achieve them.  Most investors will want to pursue several of these goals,

(Wrap-up of ten-part series on Financial Truths) In this episode, I tie together all the concepts I’ve introduced throughout this 10-part series on financial truths.  I illustrate a few different asset allocation ranges that will position you for profi...

Here’s How to See the Trend (Part 9 of ten-part series on Financial Truths) Section 1: Why Did Your Short-Term Pattern Fail? Section 2: Follow the Money: Start with Inflation/Deflation Section 3: Make a Long-Term Forecast Section 4: Make an Intermediat...