In this episode of Finishing Well Certified Financial Planner Hans Scheil and host Robby Dilmore unpack one of the most misunderstood areas of retirement planning Social Security spousal benefits While many people focus only on maximizing their own benefit Hans explains why the smartest strategy often comes from looking at Social Security as a household decision rather than an individual one Through practical real-life examples you'll discover how spouses surviving spouses and even divorced individuals may qualify for benefits they never realized were available Hans illustrates how proper timing and claiming strategies can significantly increase lifetime income helping couples create [... more]

Women are gaining more financial influence than ever before But for Christian women the bigger question isn't simply how much wealth they will control It's what they will do with what God has placed in their hands Pam Pugh Co-Founder of Women Doing Well and President of VirtuAssets Foundation has spent years helping individuals and families think about how to use their assets virtuously She believes women are entering a significant season of financial stewardship one shaped by greater earning power longer life expectancies entrepreneurship and an enormous transfer of wealth Those changes create opportunities but they also call for [... more]

Women currently control the majority of wealth in the United States and their financial influence is growing But perhaps the more important question isn't simply how much wealth women will steward It's what they want that wealth to accomplish Julie Wilson President of Women Doing Well joins the show today to share some new research conducted in partnership with the Lake Institute on Faith Giving that offers an encouraging look at how Christian women are approaching generosity The findings reveal women who are engaged discerning and increasingly intentional about aligning their financial decisions with their faith values relationships and sense [... more]

Mary Surratt, a woman from Southern Maryland, becomes embroiled in a plot to kill President Abraham Lincoln during the American Civil War. Her son John Surratt and John Wilkes Booth hatch a plan to kidnap and ransom the President, but it ultimately leads to Lincoln's assassination. Mary Surratt's involvement in the conspiracy and her eventual trial and execution are a pivotal moment in American history. [... more]

Greg Laurie shares the importance of prayer and approaching God with persistence, humility, and childlike faith. He explains that God cares about our problems, is bigger than our problems, and has perfect timing in prayer. Laurie also discusses the dangers of worry and anxiety, and how prayer is God's appointed way for obtaining things. He encourages listeners to model faith for their children and to approach God with complete dependence and honesty, just like children do. [... more]

The concept of wanting less is explored as a means to achieve financial freedom and a more intimate relationship with God. Bob Loddick shares stories and biblical examples, including the rich young ruler and Zacchaeus, to illustrate the importance of contentment and releasing possessions. He also discusses the comparison trap and how it can lead to a loss of freedom, and provides practical advice on how to start wanting less and living a more simple life. [... more]

Discovering true contentment in a world that always pushes us toward more requires a shift in perspective. It's not about reaching a certain number, but about trusting God as our source and recognizing that enough is ultimately a matter of the heart, not a number. By understanding that enough is rooted in stewardship, not ownership, and that it's about purpose, not possessions, we can find peace and security in our financial journey. [... more]

Madam C.J. Walker, a former washerwoman, built a business empire in the early 20th century by creating and marketing hair care products for African American women. Her rags-to-riches story is a testament to her hard work, determination, and innovative marketing strategies. With a focus on empowering women and promoting financial independence, Walker became one of the wealthiest American businesswomen of her time, paving the way for future generations of entrepreneurs. [... more]

Generosity flows from a place of grace, not guilt or fear, and is an overflow of the gospel. Christians give because God has already been generous with them, and generosity is an act of trust in God's provision. A biblical perspective on money and wealth can impact our day-to-day lives, and faithful stewardship involves managing money, time, and resources in a way that honors God. [... more]

Mary Surratt, a woman from Southern Maryland, becomes embroiled in the plot to kill President Abraham Lincoln during the American Civil War. Her son, John Surratt, is involved in the Confederate spy network and her tavern serves as a hub for rebel activity. As the war rages on, Mary's involvement in the assassination plot deepens, and she becomes a key figure in the events leading up to Lincoln's death. [... more]

The biblical view of marriage is not about romantic fulfillment or economic stability, but about preparing us for heaven and Christ-likeness. In Ephesians 5, Paul teaches that both husbands and wives are called to submit to each other, with husbands taking the initiative in leadership and wives supporting their husbands. This submission is not about inferiority, but about serving and loving each other as Christ loves the church. [... more]

Boaz's commitment to doing the right thing is evident as he navigates the complexities of marrying Ruth, a foreigner and childless widow. He prioritizes the preservation of the family name and adheres to the law of Israel, demonstrating a selfless and responsible approach to marriage. This biblical account highlights the importance of integrity, responsibility, and the public nature of marriage, as exemplified by Boaz's actions and the symbolism of the sandal transfer. [... more]

Ruth's response to her circumstances and God's providential provision is a model for the Christian life, demonstrating the importance of common sense, careful thought, and sensible action in discovering God's will and experiencing His favor. [... more]

Tom Lyons' son Jarlath discovers a treasure trove of old records in the basement, which turn out to be custom recordings of his father's opera singer wife Lillian, made during a chorus they formed after World War II. With the help of a neighbor and a sound studio, they are able to restore the recordings and bring back the memories of Lillian's beautiful voice, including her rendition of the Ave Maria. [... more]

Tom Lyons received a precious gift from his son on his 97th birthday - a recording of his late wife Lillian singing the Ave Maria, a moment that brought joy and life to his father and a bit of heaven to earth. [... more]

Blended families start with loss, and the backstory of how a new marriage begins is crucial. Rachel Faulkner Brown, a widow twice, shares her journey of forming a blended family with her husband Rod, and they discuss the challenges they faced, including grief, adjustment, and identity formation. They emphasize the importance of patience and understanding in the blending process, which can take several years. [... more]

As the baby boomer generation ages, they'll leave a tidal wave of wealth to their heirs, but research shows they're not preparing the next generation to manage that inheritance. Experts say it's more important than ever for families to discuss wealth transfer and seek professional guidance when necessary. [... more]

On this episode of Our American Stories Tom and Lillian Lyons married in They lived a long and loving life raising a family on the south side of Chicago Lillian was singing opera professionally when she and Tom met and it was her voice that first made Tom fall in love After Lillian's death an unexpected discovery would reunite Tom with Lillian's voice on Tom's th birthday for one last song Support the show https www ouramericanstories com donate See omnystudio com listener for privacy information [... more]

When starting a business, it's essential to choose the right structure, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), C-Corporation, or S-Corporation, to protect personal assets and minimize tax liabilities. Meanwhile, individuals should prioritize building an emergency fund to cover 3-6 months of expenses, rather than investing in the market, especially with a small amount of money. Additionally, it's crucial to diversify investments and consider tax consequences when making financial decisions. [... more]

Tom Lyons receives a precious gift on his 97th birthday - the chance to hear his late wife Lillian's voice singing the Ave Maria, a moment that brings him joy and a connection to their past. [... more]