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Check Your Balances

Check Your Balances

By: Ross Anderson CFP® and Daniel Messeca CFP®
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Summary

Managing your money doesn't have to be boring. Check Your Balances is your weekly financial co-pilot, hosted by two experienced financial planners. We deliver straight-talk strategies and expert-level advice to help you save, invest, and finally feel 100% in control on your journey to financial independence.

© 2026 Check Your Balances
Economics Personal Development Personal Finance Personal Success
Episodes
  • Are You Feeding AI Financial Plans Bad Assumptions?
    May 6 2026

    In financial planning, we often talk about "the numbers," but behind every projection lies a set of assumptions. Whether it’s an estimated rate of return, a projected inflation figure, or even how long you expect to live, these inputs are the foundation of your entire strategy. But what happens when you pull on a single thread?

    This week on Check Your Balances, we dive into the sensitivity of financial plans. We discuss how making an assumption that feels conservative in one way can have completely unintended consequences, and vice versa. In a world where more people are turning to AI to ask their financial questions - can the wrong assumptions have a major impact for you?

    Send us Fan Mail

    Send your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com
    @checkyourbalances on Instagram

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    23 mins
  • What Companies Do We Hold Grudges Against?
    Apr 29 2026

    In this week's episode, Ross and Dan review the businesses that have wronged them. Whether that grudge is for the most petty thing ever, that's for you to decide. Do you have businesses that you simply won't work with again because they have wronged you in some way?

    Send us Fan Mail

    Send your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com
    @checkyourbalances on Instagram

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    28 mins
  • Did Vanguard Come up with a BETR Approach for Roth Conversions?
    Apr 22 2026

    In this episode, we’re digging into Vanguard’s 2025 BETR (Break-Even Tax Rate) Framework to see if it’s a legitimate breakthrough or just a fancy new acronym for the same old math. We explore whether this methodology actually simplifies the Roth conversion debate or if it just adds another layer of "analysis paralysis" for investors trying to outrun the IRS. Is pinpointing a break-even rate actually realistic, over-engineered, or not going far enough?

    We’re breaking down the mechanics to see if Vanguard’s "gold standard" is a must-use tool. Tune in as we question whether this framework is truly better, or just better marketing.

    Send us Fan Mail

    Send your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com
    @checkyourbalances on Instagram

    Show More Show Less
    23 mins
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