Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, HFM advisor Catherine Allen-Carlozo sits down with Dr. Claudine De Dan, an MDVIP-affiliated physician whose personalized, preventative care model is reshaping how patients approach aging and long-term health. Dr. De Dan shares why building a trusting relationship with a primary care physician is critical, especially as we age, and how small, proactive steps can transform not only lifespan but healthspan. They explore the deeper value of investing in your health today for a better tomorrow, and why the quality of your care team can be just as important as financial planning when it comes to life satisfaction.

● Why traditional primary care often falls short—and what Dr. De Dan is doing differently.

● How personalized testing and ongoing tracking can reveal hidden health risks.

● The surprising connection between dental hygiene and cardiovascular health.

● Why investing early in your health is as vital as saving for retirement.

● [00:01:44] Catherine shares her personal experience discovering Dr. De Dan and the value of MDVIP care.

● [00:03:54] Dr. De Dan’s unconventional journey into medicine and the passion behind her practice.

● [00:07:02] Why standard 15-minute doctor visits aren’t enough—and how deeper patient relationships enable better prevention.

● [00:08:44] How trust and time allow doctors to make meaningful, personalized health plans.

● [00:10:47] Why dental health is a critical—yet often overlooked—indicator of heart health.

● [00:12:55] How Dr. De Dan structures her practice fees and what patients receive in return.

● [00:16:15] The value of accessible communication—how her team creates a caring, responsive environment.

● [00:19:21] How small health improvements, like increased movement, compound over time.

● [00:22:31] The case for early and consistent medical “investments,” mirroring financial planning.

● [00:27:16] What makes Dr. De Dan’s office unique—and how to connect if you're interested.

1. Building a relationship with a doctor who truly knows you can profoundly impact your long-term health outcomes.
2. Personalized, preventative care is about more than avoiding illness—it's about improving how you live every day.
3. Investing in your health early and consistently is just as important as saving for your financial future.

Connect with Catherine Allen-Carlozo callencarlozo@hfmadvisors.com | LinkedIn

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102 WEST HIGH STREET, SUITE 200

GLASSBORO, NJ 08028

HFM Investment Advisors, LLC is a registered investment adviser. All statements and opinions expressed are based upon information considered reliable although it should not be relied upon as such. Any statements or opinions are subject to change without notice. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. All investments involve risk and are not guaranteed. Information expressed does not take into account your...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Brett Herron, CFP® is joined by Valentina Lucchetti-Gallo, HFM’s Marketing & Events Coordinator, for a candid Q&A on one of the most frequently asked-about financial tools: the 401(k). Brett addresses common questions about contributions, taxes, investment options, retirement timelines, and employer matches. Whether you're just starting your career or eyeing retirement, this episode offers practical answers to help you better understand and manage your 401(k) plan.

● How Roth vs. Traditional 401(k) contributions impact your taxes

● The importance of risk tolerance and how it guides investment selection

● What actually happens to your 401(k) when you retire

● How employer matches and vesting schedules work

● [00:01:27] What a 401(k) is and why it’s a foundational retirement savings tool

● [00:02:17] How much you should contribute and how your goals affect that number

● [00:03:22] Can you access your 401(k) money before retirement—and should you?

● [00:05:25] Roth vs. Pre-tax contributions and their long-term tax implications

● [00:08:47] Choosing investments based on risk tolerance and age

● [00:12:14] What happens if the market crashes when you’re ready to retire

● [00:14:24] How to know if you have enough money to retire

● [00:17:14] What physically happens to your 401(k) when you retire

● [00:19:26] Rolling over an old 401(k) into a new plan or IRA

● [00:20:43] Understanding employer matches and vesting schedules

1. Your 401(k) is just one piece of your financial plan—contribution decisions should be based on your individual goals.
2. Pre-tax and Roth 401(k) contributions offer different tax advantages depending on when you pay taxes—know which is best for you.
3. Understand your employer’s vesting schedule to ensure you don’t leave potential retirement savings on the table.

Connect with Brett Herron: bherron@hfmadvisors.com | LinkedIn

Connect with Valentina Lucchetti-Gallo: vlucchetti@hfmadvisors.com | LinkedIn

Like what you’ve heard…

• Learn more about HFM HERE
• Schedule time to speak with us HERE

HFM Investment Advisors, LLC is a registered investment adviser. All statements and opinions expressed are based upon information considered reliable although it should not be relied upon as such. Any statements or opinions are subject to change without notice. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. All investments involve risk and are not guaranteed. Information expressed does not take into account your specific situation or objectives and is not intended as a recommendation appropriate for any individual. Listeners are encouraged to seek advice from a qualified tax, legal, or investment advisor to determine whether...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Andrew Barnhardt and Brett Herron explore various strategies for saving for children’s futures — whether it's for education, retirement, or general financial support. They break down the pros and cons of different account types, including 529 plans, custodial Roth IRAs, UTMAs/UGMAs, and saving in a parent’s name. Listeners will gain a clear understanding of how to align financial tools with their goals and ensure they’re setting up the next generation for success — without putting their own financial health at risk.

● The tax benefits and flexibility of 529 college savings plans.

● How custodial Roth IRAs can jumpstart retirement savings for teens with earned income.

● Why UTMAs and UGMAs offer flexibility — but come with tax and control trade-offs.

● When it may be better to save in your own name instead of your child’s.

● [00:00:00] Introduction

● [00:00:31] Why saving for kids must come after securing your own financial foundation.

● [00:02:35] Pros, cons, and new rules around 529 college savings plans.

● [00:06:55] How custodial Roth IRAs work — and why earned income is required.

● [00:11:04] The flexibility and limitations of UTMAs/UGMAs for broader financial goals.

● [00:14:59] Saving in your own name: flexibility, control, and important tax considerations.

● [00:20:07] Why segmenting investment “sleeves” can help avoid misusing funds.

● [00:22:07] A quick mention of upcoming TRUMP accounts and what to expect.

1. Saving for your children is important, but make sure your own financial house is in order first.
2. Each account — 529, custodial Roth, UTMA/UGMA, or personal savings — has unique pros and cons.
3. Teaching your child about money can be just as valuable as saving money for them.

Connect with Andrew Barnhardt: abarnhardt@hfmadvisors.com | LinkedIn

Connect with Brett Herron: bherron@hfmadvisors.com | LinkedIn

Like what you’ve heard…

• Learn more about HFM HERE
• Schedule time to speak with us HERE

102 WEST HIGH STREET, SUITE 200

GLASSBORO, NJ 08028

HFM Investment Advisors, LLC is a registered investment adviser. All statements and opinions expressed are based upon information considered reliable although it should not be relied upon as such. Any statements or opinions are subject to change without notice. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. All investments involve risk and are not guaranteed. Information expressed does not take into account your specific situation or objectives and is not intended as a recommendation appropriate for any individual. Listeners are encouraged to seek advice from a qualified tax, legal, or investment advisor to determine whether any information...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Andrew Barnhardt CFP® and Brett Herron CFP® break down the topic of below-the-line tax deductions, offering practical explanations and examples to help listeners understand how these deductions work. They discuss the difference between standard and itemized deductions, key itemized categories like mortgage interest, state and local taxes, charitable giving, and medical expenses, as well as niche areas like gambling losses and casualty losses. Whether you're filing solo or jointly, this episode equips you with the tools to make more informed tax decisions.

● The distinction between standard and itemized deductions.

● Key categories that qualify for itemized deductions.

● Why the standard deduction may be the better choice for most taxpayers.

● How niche deductions like gambling or casualty losses may apply to you.

● [00:00:45] Overview of below-the-line tax deductions and what "the line" refers to.

● [00:02:21] What the standard deduction is, how it works, and current deduction amounts.

● [00:03:36] Introduction to itemized deductions and how to decide between the two options.

● [00:04:51] Mortgage interest as a deductible expense and related loan qualifications.

● [00:05:55] State and local tax (SALT) deductions and recent changes to the cap.

● [00:07:27] Charitable contributions and which types of donations qualify.

● [00:08:13] Medical and dental deductions, including niche examples.

● [00:09:28] Gambling losses and how tax offsets now work differently.

● [00:10:50] Casualty losses in federally declared disaster areas.

● [00:12:26] Final recap of how to decide between standard and itemized deductions.

1. You can only take one: either the standard deduction or itemized deductions — whichever is higher.
2. Itemized deductions include categories like mortgage interest, SALT taxes, charity, and medical expenses.
3. Uncommon deductions, like gambling losses or casualty losses, may apply in specific situations and should be reviewed with a tax professional.

(00:04:51) "You can't take out money in the form of a home equity line of credit to go on a vacation and deduct the interest. No, no Ferraris with your home."

(00:09:28) "We might be if you have an obscure ailment that you think can help you write off an in-ground swimming pool — we'd love to hear about it."

Connect with Andrew Barnhardt: abarnhardt@hfmadvisors.com | LinkedIn

Connect with Brett Herron: bherron@hfmadvisors.com | LinkedIn

102 WEST HIGH STREET, SUITE 200

GLASSBORO, NJ 08028

HFM Investment Advisors, LLC is a registered investment adviser. All statements and opinions expressed are based upon information considered reliable although it should not be relied upon as such. Any statements or opinions are subject to change without notice. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. All investments...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Andrew Barnhardt and Brett Herron of HFM Advisors dive into the world of above-the-line tax deductions. These often-overlooked deductions can reduce your adjusted gross income and improve your eligibility for other tax benefits. From retirement contributions and HSAs to student loan interest and self-employment tax breaks, Andrew and Brett break down how these deductions work, why they matter, and how to take advantage of them. Whether you're planning for next April or the next decade, this episode offers a practical look at reducing your tax bill.

● Why above-the-line deductions matter for your tax planning strategy.

● How HSAs and retirement plans offer triple tax advantages.

● The difference between above-the-line and below-the-line deductions.

● Lesser-known deductions like student loan interest and self-employment tax offsets.

● [00:01:00] Why tax planning is a year-round activity and the role of above-the-line deductions.

● [00:03:04] Key differences between above-the-line and below-the-line deductions.

● [00:05:34] How retirement contributions reduce your taxable income.

● [00:06:30] The triple tax advantage of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).

● [00:08:20] Student loan interest deduction and its phase-out thresholds.

● [00:09:37] Self-employment tax deductions and how they encourage small businesses.

● [00:11:08] Humorous examples of niche deductions: Olympic medals, timberland, IRS tip-offs.

● [00:13:15] Why adjusted gross income is the “halftime” point of your tax return.

● [00:14:22] Tease for upcoming episode on below-the-line deductions.

1. Above-the-line deductions reduce your adjusted gross income and can unlock other tax benefits.
2. Common deductions include contributions to retirement accounts, HSAs, and student loan interest.
3. Understanding and using these deductions can significantly lower your tax liability year after year.

Connect with Jason Gabrieli: jgabrieli@HFMadvisors.com | LinkedIn

Like what you’ve heard…

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• Schedule time to speak with us HERE
• Check out our Financial Wellness Program – HFM Ignite

102 WEST HIGH STREET, SUITE 200

GLASSBORO, NJ 08028

HFM Investment Advisors, LLC is a registered investment adviser. All statements and opinions expressed are based upon information considered reliable although it should not be relied upon as such. Any statements or opinions are subject to change without notice. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. All investments involve risk and are not guaranteed. Information expressed does not take into account your specific situation or objectives and is not intended as a recommendation appropriate for any individual. Listeners are encouraged to seek advice from a qualified tax, legal, or investment advisor to determine whether any information presented may be suitable for their specific situation. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this solo episode, Certified Financial Planner Catherine Allen-Carlozo explores a mindset shift that can help transform financial anxiety into confidence. Drawing inspiration from the book The Gap and The Gain by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy, Catherine unpacks how shifting your focus from what’s missing to what you’ve already accomplished can empower better financial decisions. She shares a real-life story of a client who overcame overwhelming circumstances and emphasizes the importance of celebrating progress — not chasing perfection.

Tune into this episode to also learn:

● How “The Gap and The Gain” framework applies to your financial journey.

● Why comparing your finances to others can lead to a scarcity mindset.

● What it looks like to build from progress, not perfection.

● A simple exercise to identify your financial wins and shift into abundance.

What we discussed

● [00:00:31] Catherine introduces the topic: shifting from worry to wealth by measuring financial progress the right way.

● [00:01:13] The dangers of comparing your finances to others — and why it often leads to feeling “behind.”

● [00:01:40] Key concepts from The Gap and The Gain and how they apply to financial planning.

● [00:03:22] A client’s story: how one widow shifted her mindset and rebuilt her financial life.

● [00:05:22] An invitation: do a simple 3-step reflection exercise to identify financial gains.

● [00:07:05] The takeaway: you’re not starting from scratch — you're building on what you've already achieved.

3 Things To Remember

1. Measuring financial progress by comparison often leads to discouragement — focus on how far you’ve come instead.
2. An abundant mindset starts with recognizing and celebrating your financial gains.
3. You already have the tools, courage, and clarity to build your future — trust your progress.

Like what you’ve heard…

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Schedule time to speak with us HERE

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Jason Gabrieli, CFP, is joined by Andrew Barhardt, CFP, to explore how charitable contributions can be optimized for tax efficiency. They discuss practical strategies such as donor-advised funds, gifting appreciated stock, and estate planning techniques to ensure your generosity also leads to tax benefits. Whether you're navigating a high-income year or planning your legacy, this episode offers valuable insights to help you give wisely.

Tune into this episode to also learn:

● How donor-advised funds can provide flexibility and immediate tax deductions.

● The benefits of gifting appreciated stock to eliminate capital gains taxes.

● When charitable remainder trusts (CRTs) are appropriate for advanced planning.

● Why designating charities as IRA beneficiaries can be a smart estate strategy.

What we discussed

● [00:00:06] Why many charitable contributions don't provide tax benefits under current standard deduction rules.

● [00:02:45] Introduction to donor-advised funds and how they work.

● [00:05:29] When donor-advised funds are most advantageous, especially in high-income years.

● [00:07:12] How deduction bunching can help maximize tax deductions.

● [00:11:37] Gifting appreciated stock to avoid capital gains taxes.

● [00:14:00] Overview of advanced charitable trusts like CRATs and CRUTs.

● [00:17:03] The best assets to leave to charity versus heirs in estate planning.

● [00:18:26] The importance of tax-efficient charitable giving both during life and after death.

3 Things To Remember

1. Donor-advised funds offer a flexible way to manage charitable giving while optimizing tax deductions.

2. Gifting appreciated assets can eliminate capital gains taxes and enhance the impact of your donations.

3. Strategic estate planning ensures that both your heirs and charities benefit in the most tax-efficient manner.

Useful Links

Connect with Jason Gabrieli: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasongabrieli

Like what you’ve heard…

Learn more about HFM HERE

Schedule time to speak with us HERE

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Catherine Allen-Carlozo and Tyler Reedman dive into an unconventional yet valuable topic: what happens to your travel rewards—points, miles, and loyalty perks—when you pass away? Prompted by a real client experience, the discussion unpacks how various credit card, airline, and hotel programs treat reward balances after death and what estate planning strategies can help preserve them for loved ones. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that blends financial planning with travel hacking insights.lth without fear.

Tune into this episode to also learn:

● Why you don’t technically own your points or miles.

● How to plan ahead to preserve rewards for your loved ones.

● The importance of sharing logins and digital access with trusted individuals.

● Which travel rewards programs allow for point transfers—and which don’t.

What we discussed

● [00:01:14] How a client’s passing revealed the complexities of transferring travel points after death.

● [00:02:27] Travel hacking 101: how to use credit card points and loyalty programs for nearly free trips.

● [00:04:50] Why points aren’t considered your property and how that affects estate planning.

● [00:05:45] The critical importance of having logins and account access in estate prep.

● [00:07:19] Common pitfalls with two-factor authentication and password managers.

● [00:09:06] Best practices for storing login info and digital credentials securely.

● [00:10:18] Including travel rewards in your estate plan: who inherits and how to designate.

● [00:12:19] Each airline and hotel chain has its own rules—know them in advance.

● [00:13:22] Credit card churning, signup bonuses, and the art of responsible travel hacking.

3 Things To Remember

1. Your travel points and miles aren’t considered your property—so don’t assume they’ll automatically transfer.
2. Document login credentials, security questions, and instructions for accessing key accounts.
3. If travel rewards matter to you, consider including them specifically in your estate plan or will.

Useful Links

Connect with Catherine Allen-Carlozo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherineballen

Connect with Tyler Reedman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-reedman-cfp%C2%AE-8b29a6101/

Like what you’ve heard…

Learn more about HFM HERE

Schedule time to speak with us HERE