http://www.Armstrongadvisory.com
“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”]]>enSociety & CultureCopyright Armstrong Advisory Grouphttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/2adcf1444694a7b9f23d4d4a677de7aa.jpghttp://www.Armstrongadvisory.comWed, 19 Aug 2026 21:25:57 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupArmstrong Advisory Groupfeeds@spreaker.comMake It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving,...
“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”]]>falsed965bb00-862e-5373-a51a-fc631028e297episodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/meet-cash-armstrong-from-world-traveler-to-financial-advisor--74340437
In this special episode of Make It Make Sense, Michelle Cropley sits down with Cash to learn more about the man behind the microphone. Cash shares the story behind his unusual first name, what it was like growing up in the family that founded Armstrong Advisory Group, the experiences that took him around the world, and what ultimately led him to a career helping people with their finances.


They cover:
●    The story behind the name Cash and his connection to the Armstrong family
●    The money lessons his father taught him at an early age
●    How a savings match helped Cash start investing while working his first job
●    What living and working in South Korea, New Zealand, and Australia taught him
●    How teaching, traveling, and meeting people from different backgrounds shaped the way he communicates today
●    What it took to earn the Certified Financial Planner certification
●    Why the fiduciary standard is so important to Cash and his approach to financial advice
●    What Cash finds most rewarding about helping clients navigate their financial lives



The key takeaway: becoming a financial advisor isn't always a straight path. Cash's experiences with family, travel, education, and investing have all helped shape his approach to the profession and his belief that good financial advice starts with understanding the individual and doing meaningful work that can make a difference in someone's life.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74340437Wed, 19 Aug 2026 21:23:33 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupBefore becoming a financial advisor, Cash Armstrong took a very different path. He taught English in South Korea, waited tables in New Zealand, worked on a strawberry farm in Australia, and traveled throughout Southeast Asia. But his interest in money...
In this special episode of Make It Make Sense, Michelle Cropley sits down with Cash to learn more about the man behind the microphone. Cash shares the story behind his unusual first name, what it was like growing up in the family that founded Armstrong Advisory Group, the experiences that took him around the world, and what ultimately led him to a career helping people with their finances.


They cover:
●    The story behind the name Cash and his connection to the Armstrong family
●    The money lessons his father taught him at an early age
●    How a savings match helped Cash start investing while working his first job
●    What living and working in South Korea, New Zealand, and Australia taught him
●    How teaching, traveling, and meeting people from different backgrounds shaped the way he communicates today
●    What it took to earn the Certified Financial Planner certification
●    Why the fiduciary standard is so important to Cash and his approach to financial advice
●    What Cash finds most rewarding about helping clients navigate their financial lives



The key takeaway: becoming a financial advisor isn't always a straight path. Cash's experiences with family, travel, education, and investing have all helped shape his approach to the profession and his belief that good financial advice starts with understanding the individual and doing meaningful work that can make a difference in someone's life.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to...]]>1115advisor,assets,budgeting,changing,economics,education,fiduciary,financial,income,insurance,investing,job,markets,money,planning,prosperity,retirement,savings,wealthfalse35fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/meet-brendan-hayes-money-family-and-lessons-from-a-financial-advisor--73861081
In this special episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley sits down with Brendan for a more personal conversation about his path into financial services, his life outside the office, and the lessons more than 25 years of working with clients have taught him about money, retirement and life.


They cover:
●    How Brendan's experiences with money as a child helped spark an interest in investing
●    Why becoming a financial advisor requires experience, education and trust
●    The role family, soccer, skiing, biking and adventure play in his life outside the office
●    What Brendan finds most rewarding and most frustrating about working with clients
●    Why understanding a person's priorities is essential to building a successful advisor relationship
●    What decades of watching clients navigate retirement and major life changes have taught him
●    Why accumulated wealth should ultimately help people find fulfillment and enjoy the life they've built
●    Brendan's encouraging observation that financial lives can often turn out much better than people expect



The key takeaway: financial planning is ultimately about much more than the numbers. After decades of working closely with families, Brendan has seen how quickly circumstances can change and why thoughtful planning can give people more opportunities to use their money in ways that create meaningful experiences, memories and fulfillment.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73861081Wed, 12 Aug 2026 20:06:16 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupFor financial advisor Brendan Hayes, an interest in money started long before it became a career. From counting coins with his grandmother at five years old to investing money from paper routes and odd jobs as a teenager, some of his earliest...
In this special episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley sits down with Brendan for a more personal conversation about his path into financial services, his life outside the office, and the lessons more than 25 years of working with clients have taught him about money, retirement and life.


They cover:
●    How Brendan's experiences with money as a child helped spark an interest in investing
●    Why becoming a financial advisor requires experience, education and trust
●    The role family, soccer, skiing, biking and adventure play in his life outside the office
●    What Brendan finds most rewarding and most frustrating about working with clients
●    Why understanding a person's priorities is essential to building a successful advisor relationship
●    What decades of watching clients navigate retirement and major life changes have taught him
●    Why accumulated wealth should ultimately help people find fulfillment and enjoy the life they've built
●    Brendan's encouraging observation that financial lives can often turn out much better than people expect



The key takeaway: financial planning is ultimately about much more than the numbers. After decades of working closely with families, Brendan has seen how quickly circumstances can change and why thoughtful planning can give people more opportunities to use their money in ways that create meaningful experiences, memories and fulfillment.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a...]]>1413advisor,assets,budgeting,economics,estate,fiduciary,financial,income,insurance,investing,markets,money,planning,portfolio,prosperity,retirement,savings,taxes,wealthfalse34fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-value-a-stock-without-guessing--73504616
Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Paul Lane break down the basics of stock valuation, explaining the metrics professional investors use to evaluate companies and why market expectations often matter more than past performance. From market capitalization and price-to-earnings ratios to free cash flow and future growth, they explain how investors can make more informed decisions before buying a stock. 

They cover:
●    Why a stock's share price doesn't determine whether it's expensive or cheap
●    How market capitalization helps measure the true size of a company
●    What price-to-earnings and price-to-sales ratios can tell investors
●    Why free cash flow is an important indicator of a company's financial strength
●    Why two companies with similar earnings can trade at very different valuations
●    Why a stock can fall even after reporting strong earnings
●    The importance of looking beyond a single valuation metric
●    How to evaluate a business before deciding to invest

The key takeaway: successful investing isn't about finding the lowest-priced stock or chasing the latest headline. It's about understanding the business behind the ticker symbol and making investment decisions based on long-term fundamentals rather than short-term market movements.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73504616Wed, 05 Aug 2026 20:05:33 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupA stock's share price tells you almost nothing about whether it's actually a good investment. Understanding what a business is worth requires looking beyond the headline number and evaluating the company's fundamentals, growth potential, and financial...
Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Paul Lane break down the basics of stock valuation, explaining the metrics professional investors use to evaluate companies and why market expectations often matter more than past performance. From market capitalization and price-to-earnings ratios to free cash flow and future growth, they explain how investors can make more informed decisions before buying a stock. 

They cover:
●    Why a stock's share price doesn't determine whether it's expensive or cheap
●    How market capitalization helps measure the true size of a company
●    What price-to-earnings and price-to-sales ratios can tell investors
●    Why free cash flow is an important indicator of a company's financial strength
●    Why two companies with similar earnings can trade at very different valuations
●    Why a stock can fall even after reporting strong earnings
●    The importance of looking beyond a single valuation metric
●    How to evaluate a business before deciding to invest

The key takeaway: successful investing isn't about finding the lowest-priced stock or chasing the latest headline. It's about understanding the business behind the ticker symbol and making investment decisions based on long-term fundamentals rather than short-term market movements.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any...]]>1424finance,financial,guidance,retirement,stockfalse33fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-retirement-ages-that-could-save-or-cost-you-thousands--73504615 
Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Scott Wilson explain the key retirement milestones that can shape your financial future. They discuss when you can access retirement savings without penalties, how to think about claiming Social Security, what you need to know about Medicare enrollment, and why required minimum distributions should be part of your long term tax strategy. 

They cover:
●    How the Rule of 55 works and who qualifies
●    What changes at age 59½ for retirement account withdrawals
●    When claiming Social Security at ages 62, 67, or 70 may make the most sense
●    The Medicare enrollment deadlines that can help you avoid permanent penalties
●    Why understanding your full retirement age is so important
●    How delayed Social Security credits can increase your lifetime benefit
●    What required minimum distributions are and when they begin
●    Why planning ahead can reduce taxes and create more retirement flexibility

The key takeaway: every retirement milestone creates new opportunities and new decisions. Understanding the rules before you reach these ages can help you maximize benefits, avoid unnecessary penalties, and build a more tax efficient retirement strategy.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73504615Wed, 05 Aug 2026 19:35:37 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupCertain birthdays carry far more financial significance than others. From retirement accounts and Social Security to Medicare and required minimum distributions, understanding these milestone ages can help you avoid costly mistakes and make more... 
Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Scott Wilson explain the key retirement milestones that can shape your financial future. They discuss when you can access retirement savings without penalties, how to think about claiming Social Security, what you need to know about Medicare enrollment, and why required minimum distributions should be part of your long term tax strategy. 

They cover:
●    How the Rule of 55 works and who qualifies
●    What changes at age 59½ for retirement account withdrawals
●    When claiming Social Security at ages 62, 67, or 70 may make the most sense
●    The Medicare enrollment deadlines that can help you avoid permanent penalties
●    Why understanding your full retirement age is so important
●    How delayed Social Security credits can increase your lifetime benefit
●    What required minimum distributions are and when they begin
●    Why planning ahead can reduce taxes and create more retirement flexibility

The key takeaway: every retirement milestone creates new opportunities and new decisions. Understanding the rules before you reach these ages can help you maximize benefits, avoid unnecessary penalties, and build a more tax efficient retirement strategy.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”]]>1050finance,financial,fra,guidance,lifestyle,retirement,security,social,socialsecurityfalse32fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/where-should-you-live-in-retirement-downsizing-relocating-planning-ahead--73503020
In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Michael Bradley explore the financial, practical, and emotional factors involved in relocating during retirement. Whether you're considering moving to a tax friendly state, downsizing your home, renovating to age in place, renting, or moving closer to family, they discuss how each option fits into a comprehensive retirement plan and the tradeoffs that should be considered before making a move. 


They cover:
●    The pros and cons of relocating to a state with no income tax
●    How to decide whether downsizing makes financial and lifestyle sense
●    When renovating your current home may be a better option than moving
●    The benefits and challenges of multigenerational living
●    Why renting can provide flexibility for some retirees
●    How to evaluate senior living communities and understand their costs
●    Why housing needs often change after the loss of a spouse
●    The importance of balancing financial considerations with family, healthcare, and quality of life

The key takeaway: the best retirement move isn't always the one with the lowest taxes or the smallest home. By evaluating your finances, health, family circumstances, and long term goals together, you can make a housing decision that supports both your retirement lifestyle and your financial future.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.


“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73503020Wed, 05 Aug 2026 16:07:00 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupWhere you choose to live in retirement can have a bigger impact on your finances and your quality of life than almost any other decision you'll make.  In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Michael Bradley...
In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Michael Bradley explore the financial, practical, and emotional factors involved in relocating during retirement. Whether you're considering moving to a tax friendly state, downsizing your home, renovating to age in place, renting, or moving closer to family, they discuss how each option fits into a comprehensive retirement plan and the tradeoffs that should be considered before making a move. 


They cover:
●    The pros and cons of relocating to a state with no income tax
●    How to decide whether downsizing makes financial and lifestyle sense
●    When renovating your current home may be a better option than moving
●    The benefits and challenges of multigenerational living
●    Why renting can provide flexibility for some retirees
●    How to evaluate senior living communities and understand their costs
●    Why housing needs often change after the loss of a spouse
●    The importance of balancing financial considerations with family, healthcare, and quality of life

The key takeaway: the best retirement move isn't always the one with the lowest taxes or the smallest home. By evaluating your finances, health, family circumstances, and long term goals together, you can make a housing decision that supports both your retirement lifestyle and your financial future.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.


“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG...]]>1166aging,decisions,downsizing,estate,finances,friendly,housing,lifestyle,living,multigenerational,planning,real,relocating,relocation,retirement,senior,states,taxfalse31fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/good-debt-vs-bad-debt-how-to-borrow-smarter-and-get-out-of-debt-faster--73503021
In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Cash Armstrong break down the differences between good debt and bad debt, explain how to evaluate whether borrowing makes financial sense, and share practical strategies for paying down debt without sacrificing your long-term goals. From mortgages and student loans to credit cards, personal loans, and "buy now, pay later" financing, they discuss how to make smarter borrowing decisions and avoid common financial traps.

They cover:
●    What separates good debt from bad debt—and why context matters
●    When mortgages, student loans, business loans, and HELOCs can support long-term financial success
●    Why credit card debt, high-interest loans, and "buy now, pay later" financing can become costly mistakes
●    How opportunity cost should factor into every borrowing decision
●    Practical strategies for negotiating debt and lowering interest costs
●    The differences between the avalanche and snowball methods of paying down debt
●    Why emergency savings remain essential while paying off debt
●    How to build a realistic debt payoff plan without losing sight of your broader financial goals

The key takeaway: debt is a financial tool—not inherently good or bad. The key is understanding when borrowing helps build wealth, when it becomes a burden, and how a disciplined repayment strategy can improve your financial future.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73503021Tue, 04 Aug 2026 16:09:00 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupNot all debt is created equal. Some forms of borrowing can help build long-term wealth, while others can quietly erode your financial future if left unchecked. In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Cash...
In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Cash Armstrong break down the differences between good debt and bad debt, explain how to evaluate whether borrowing makes financial sense, and share practical strategies for paying down debt without sacrificing your long-term goals. From mortgages and student loans to credit cards, personal loans, and "buy now, pay later" financing, they discuss how to make smarter borrowing decisions and avoid common financial traps.

They cover:
●    What separates good debt from bad debt—and why context matters
●    When mortgages, student loans, business loans, and HELOCs can support long-term financial success
●    Why credit card debt, high-interest loans, and "buy now, pay later" financing can become costly mistakes
●    How opportunity cost should factor into every borrowing decision
●    Practical strategies for negotiating debt and lowering interest costs
●    The differences between the avalanche and snowball methods of paying down debt
●    Why emergency savings remain essential while paying off debt
●    How to build a realistic debt payoff plan without losing sight of your broader financial goals

The key takeaway: debt is a financial tool—not inherently good or bad. The key is understanding when borrowing helps build wealth, when it becomes a burden, and how a disciplined repayment strategy can improve your financial future.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are...]]>1391armstrongadvisorygroup,baddebt,budgeting,buynowpaylater,creditcards,debtfree,debtmanagement,debtpayoff,emergencysavings,financialplanning,gooddebt,heloc,interestrates,makeitmakecents,moneymanagement,mortgages,personalfinance,personalloans,studentloans,wealthbuildingfalse30fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/investing-basics-stocks-bonds-etfs-mutual-funds-annuities-explained--73067712In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Brendan Hayes break down the most common investment vehicles, explain how each one works, and discuss why different investments serve different purposes depending on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. Whether you're just beginning your investing journey or looking to better understand what's inside your portfolio, this episode provides a practical foundation for making more informed financial decisions.

They cover:
●    The differences between stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, and annuities
●    How investors make money through dividends, interest, and long-term appreciation
●    Why diversification can help reduce investment risk
●    The advantages and tradeoffs of mutual funds versus exchange-traded funds (ETFs)
●    What bond ratings mean and why some bonds are considered "junk" bonds
●    The different types of annuities and where they may fit into a financial plan
●    How investment choices should align with your goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk
●    Why building the right portfolio is about owning the right mix of investments—not simply chasing returns

The key takeaway: every investment has a purpose, and no single option is right for every investor. Understanding how these investments work—and how they fit together—can help you build a portfolio that's aligned with your long-term financial goals rather than reacting to short-term market movements.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73067712Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:52:43 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupThe investment world is full of terminology that can feel overwhelming—but understanding the basics is the first step toward becoming a more confident investor. In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Brendan...In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Brendan Hayes break down the most common investment vehicles, explain how each one works, and discuss why different investments serve different purposes depending on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. Whether you're just beginning your investing journey or looking to better understand what's inside your portfolio, this episode provides a practical foundation for making more informed financial decisions.

They cover:
●    The differences between stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, and annuities
●    How investors make money through dividends, interest, and long-term appreciation
●    Why diversification can help reduce investment risk
●    The advantages and tradeoffs of mutual funds versus exchange-traded funds (ETFs)
●    What bond ratings mean and why some bonds are considered "junk" bonds
●    The different types of annuities and where they may fit into a financial plan
●    How investment choices should align with your goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk
●    Why building the right portfolio is about owning the right mix of investments—not simply chasing returns

The key takeaway: every investment has a purpose, and no single option is right for every investor. Understanding how these investments work—and how they fit together—can help you build a portfolio that's aligned with your long-term financial goals rather than reacting to short-term market movements.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation,...]]>1918annuities,basics,bonds,diversification,dividends,etfs,exchange-traded,funds,horizon,income,interest,investing,investment,mutual,portfolio,risk,stocks,time,tolerance,vehiclesfalse29fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/burned-out-how-to-know-if-you-can-afford-a-lower-paying-job--73067711In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Scott Wilson discuss how to evaluate the financial and emotional tradeoffs of leaving a high-income career for a lower-paying, lower-stress role. From retirement readiness and healthcare costs to burnout and lifestyle changes, they explain how thoughtful financial planning can help turn uncertainty into confidence.

They cover:
●    How to determine whether you're experiencing burnout or simply need a break
●    The hidden financial costs of leaving a high-paying job beyond just your salary
●    Why retirement savings, healthcare benefits, and stock compensation all matter
●    A simple "test drive" strategy to see if you can realistically live on a lower income
●    How financial planning can help you evaluate different career scenarios before making a major decision
●    Why financial independence is about creating options—not just accumulating wealth
●    Practical alternatives to quitting, including consulting, reduced hours, and phased career transitions
●    How to decide whether you've built enough wealth to prioritize lifestyle over income

The key takeaway: years of disciplined saving and investing should create flexibility—not just a larger account balance. With the right financial plan, you can make career decisions based on your goals and values rather than fear of the unknown.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73067711Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:51:16 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupMany professionals reach a point where the paycheck no longer feels worth the stress. But how do you know if you're financially ready to step away from a demanding, high-paying career without putting your long-term goals at risk? In this episode of...In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Scott Wilson discuss how to evaluate the financial and emotional tradeoffs of leaving a high-income career for a lower-paying, lower-stress role. From retirement readiness and healthcare costs to burnout and lifestyle changes, they explain how thoughtful financial planning can help turn uncertainty into confidence.

They cover:
●    How to determine whether you're experiencing burnout or simply need a break
●    The hidden financial costs of leaving a high-paying job beyond just your salary
●    Why retirement savings, healthcare benefits, and stock compensation all matter
●    A simple "test drive" strategy to see if you can realistically live on a lower income
●    How financial planning can help you evaluate different career scenarios before making a major decision
●    Why financial independence is about creating options—not just accumulating wealth
●    Practical alternatives to quitting, including consulting, reduced hours, and phased career transitions
●    How to decide whether you've built enough wealth to prioritize lifestyle over income

The key takeaway: years of disciplined saving and investing should create flexibility—not just a larger account balance. With the right financial plan, you can make career decisions based on your goals and values rather than fear of the unknown.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase...]]>917a,balance,burnout,career,change,costs,employee,financial,healthcare,high-income,high-paying,independence,job,leaving,lower-stress,planning,readiness,retirement,transition,work-lifefalse28fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-most-tax-advantaged-account-you-re-probably-not-using--72840924In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Cash Armstrong break down the differences between Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), why one of them offers a unique triple tax advantage, and how these accounts can fit into a broader financial plan.

They cover:
●    Why HSAs are often considered the most tax-advantaged account available
●    The key differences between HSAs and FSAs
●    How eligibility rules and contribution limits work
●    Why some investors use an HSA as a long-term retirement planning tool
●    Common mistakes that can reduce the value of these accounts
●    Strategies for avoiding the "use it or lose it" pitfalls of FSAs
●    How major life changes can impact your emergency fund, tax withholding, and retirement savings goals
●    Why a mid-year financial checkup can help prevent costly surprises later in the year

The key takeaway: whether you're evaluating your employee benefits, preparing for future healthcare costs, or simply trying to stay on track financially, the middle of the year is an ideal time to review your strategy and make adjustments before small issues become bigger problems.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72840924Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:49:24 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupMost people think of a 401(k) or IRA when they hear the term tax-advantaged account. But there may be an even more powerful option hiding in your employee benefits package. In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor...In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Cash Armstrong break down the differences between Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), why one of them offers a unique triple tax advantage, and how these accounts can fit into a broader financial plan.

They cover:
●    Why HSAs are often considered the most tax-advantaged account available
●    The key differences between HSAs and FSAs
●    How eligibility rules and contribution limits work
●    Why some investors use an HSA as a long-term retirement planning tool
●    Common mistakes that can reduce the value of these accounts
●    Strategies for avoiding the "use it or lose it" pitfalls of FSAs
●    How major life changes can impact your emergency fund, tax withholding, and retirement savings goals
●    Why a mid-year financial checkup can help prevent costly surprises later in the year

The key takeaway: whether you're evaluating your employee benefits, preparing for future healthcare costs, or simply trying to stay on track financially, the middle of the year is an ideal time to review your strategy and make adjustments before small issues become bigger problems.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>1266benefits-planning,contribution-limits,emergency-fund,employee-benefits,financial-advisor,financial-planning,financial-strategy,flexible-spending,fsa,healthcare-costs,health-savings-account,hsa,make-it-make-cents,mid-year-checkup,money-mistakes,retirement-planning,retirement-savings,tax-advantaged,tax-withholding,triple-tax-advantagefalse27fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/new-baby-new-budget-financial-planning-for-growing-families--72840927In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Michael Bradley discuss the financial decisions that often come with a growing family and how parents can build a strong foundation for the years ahead. 

They cover:
●    Why life insurance should be one of the first financial priorities for new parents
●    The estate planning documents every family should have in place
●    How to reset your budget when childcare, diapers, and other new expenses arrive
●    The role of emergency savings in protecting your family's financial future
●    How to evaluate daycare costs and other major lifestyle changes
●    When it makes sense to start saving in a 529 college savings plan
●    Why parents shouldn't sacrifice their own retirement to pay for their children's education
●    A practical financial checklist for families navigating their first years of parenthood

The key takeaway: becoming a parent is a natural time to revisit your entire financial plan. By focusing on protection, planning, and long-term priorities, families can create greater financial security while preparing for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. 

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72840927Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:41:24 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupBringing home a new baby changes just about everything—including your finances. In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Michael Bradley discuss the financial decisions that often come with a growing family and how...In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Michael Bradley discuss the financial decisions that often come with a growing family and how parents can build a strong foundation for the years ahead. 

They cover:
●    Why life insurance should be one of the first financial priorities for new parents
●    The estate planning documents every family should have in place
●    How to reset your budget when childcare, diapers, and other new expenses arrive
●    The role of emergency savings in protecting your family's financial future
●    How to evaluate daycare costs and other major lifestyle changes
●    When it makes sense to start saving in a 529 college savings plan
●    Why parents shouldn't sacrifice their own retirement to pay for their children's education
●    A practical financial checklist for families navigating their first years of parenthood

The key takeaway: becoming a parent is a natural time to revisit your entire financial plan. By focusing on protection, planning, and long-term priorities, families can create greater financial security while preparing for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. 

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>1206529-plan,budgeting,childcare-costs,college-savings,daycare-costs,emergency-savings,estate-planning,family-budget,family-finances,financial-advisor,financial-checklist,financial-planning,financial-security,growing-family,life-insurance,long-term-planning,make-it-make-cents,new-parents,parenthood,retirement-planningfalse26fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/investing-for-kids-utmas-529-plans-roth-iras-the-power-of-starting-early--72840925In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Brendan Hayes discuss the different ways parents, grandparents, and guardians can help children and young adults begin building wealth—and why starting early can make such a dramatic difference over time. 

They cover:
●    Why investing early can create a powerful long-term advantage through compounding
●    The differences between UTMA accounts, 529 plans, and custodial Roth IRAs
●    How the age of majority affects when a child gains control of an investment account
●    The tax benefits and tradeoffs associated with different account types
●    How custodial accounts can impact college financial aid eligibility
●    Why Roth IRAs can be especially valuable for young people with earned income
●    Creative ways parents and grandparents can encourage good investing habits
●    How to choose the right account based on your goals for the next generation

The key takeaway: there is no one-size-fits-all approach to investing for children and young adults. The right account depends on your goals, whether that's teaching investing fundamentals, saving for college, building retirement assets, or creating long-term financial opportunities for the next generation. 

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72840925Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:23:58 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupWhen it comes to investing, young people have one advantage that no one can buy: time.  In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Brendan Hayes discuss the different ways parents, grandparents, and guardians can...In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Brendan Hayes discuss the different ways parents, grandparents, and guardians can help children and young adults begin building wealth—and why starting early can make such a dramatic difference over time. 

They cover:
●    Why investing early can create a powerful long-term advantage through compounding
●    The differences between UTMA accounts, 529 plans, and custodial Roth IRAs
●    How the age of majority affects when a child gains control of an investment account
●    The tax benefits and tradeoffs associated with different account types
●    How custodial accounts can impact college financial aid eligibility
●    Why Roth IRAs can be especially valuable for young people with earned income
●    Creative ways parents and grandparents can encourage good investing habits
●    How to choose the right account based on your goals for the next generation

The key takeaway: there is no one-size-fits-all approach to investing for children and young adults. The right account depends on your goals, whether that's teaching investing fundamentals, saving for college, building retirement assets, or creating long-term financial opportunities for the next generation. 

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>1864529-plans,building-wealth,college-savings,compound-interest,custodial-accounts,custodial-roth-ira,family-financial-planning,financial-advisor,financial-aid,financial-planning,generational-wealth,investing-for-kids,investment-accounts,make-it-make-cents,retirement-savings,roth-ira,tax-planning,teaching-kids-money,utma-accounts,young-investorsfalse23fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/protecting-your-financial-future-disability-identity-theft-long-term-care--72840926In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Scott Wilson discuss the often-overlooked side of financial planning: protecting your income, assets, and family from life's biggest financial risks.

They cover:
●    Why income protection may be more important than investment returns during your working years
●    The surprising disability statistics that every worker should understand
●    How disability insurance fits into a comprehensive financial plan
●    Why emergency savings can help prevent costly financial mistakes during a crisis
●    Practical steps to reduce the risk of identity theft and financial fraud
●    The role of umbrella insurance and how it can help protect accumulated wealth
●    Why long-term care planning should begin long before retirement
●    Common misconceptions about Medicare and long-term care expenses
●    The estate planning documents every adult should have in place
●    Why beneficiary designations can override instructions in your will

The key takeaway: building wealth is only part of the equation. A strong financial plan also protects what you've built through proper insurance coverage, emergency reserves, estate planning, and preparation for the unexpected.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72840926Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:21:27 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupMost people focus on growing their wealth—but one unexpected event can derail years of financial progress. In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Scott Wilson discuss the often-overlooked side of financial...In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Scott Wilson discuss the often-overlooked side of financial planning: protecting your income, assets, and family from life's biggest financial risks.

They cover:
●    Why income protection may be more important than investment returns during your working years
●    The surprising disability statistics that every worker should understand
●    How disability insurance fits into a comprehensive financial plan
●    Why emergency savings can help prevent costly financial mistakes during a crisis
●    Practical steps to reduce the risk of identity theft and financial fraud
●    The role of umbrella insurance and how it can help protect accumulated wealth
●    Why long-term care planning should begin long before retirement
●    Common misconceptions about Medicare and long-term care expenses
●    The estate planning documents every adult should have in place
●    Why beneficiary designations can override instructions in your will

The key takeaway: building wealth is only part of the equation. A strong financial plan also protects what you've built through proper insurance coverage, emergency reserves, estate planning, and preparation for the unexpected.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>1383beneficiary,care,disability,emergency,estate,financial,fraud,identity,income,insurance,long-term,management,medicare,planning,protection,risk,savings,theft,umbrella,wealthfalse24fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-biggest-social-security-mistake-claiming-too-early-could-cost-you-thousands--72840923In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Cash Armstrong break down the biggest factors to consider before deciding when to claim Social Security—and why fear often leads people to make costly mistakes.

They cover:
●    How Social Security benefits are calculated
●    The financial tradeoffs of claiming at 62 vs. 67 vs. 70
●    Why delaying benefits can increase payouts by 8% annually
●    The concept of a Social Security break-even point
●    How spousal and survivor benefits work—and why strategy matters for couples
●    What happens if you claim early and continue working (the earnings test)
●    Common misconceptions about Social Security running out of money
●    Why claiming out of fear could have long-term consequences
●    When it makes sense to seek professional guidance before making a decision

The key takeaway: deciding when to claim Social Security isn’t just about age—it’s about longevity, income needs, family circumstances, and building a strategy that supports your long-term financial goals.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72840923Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:14:15 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupMost people claim Social Security at age 62—but that decision could reduce your lifetime benefits by far more than you realize. In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Cash Armstrong break down the biggest factors...In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Cash Armstrong break down the biggest factors to consider before deciding when to claim Social Security—and why fear often leads people to make costly mistakes.

They cover:
●    How Social Security benefits are calculated
●    The financial tradeoffs of claiming at 62 vs. 67 vs. 70
●    Why delaying benefits can increase payouts by 8% annually
●    The concept of a Social Security break-even point
●    How spousal and survivor benefits work—and why strategy matters for couples
●    What happens if you claim early and continue working (the earnings test)
●    Common misconceptions about Social Security running out of money
●    Why claiming out of fear could have long-term consequences
●    When it makes sense to seek professional guidance before making a decision

The key takeaway: deciding when to claim Social Security isn’t just about age—it’s about longevity, income needs, family circumstances, and building a strategy that supports your long-term financial goals.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>1284advisor,benefits,break-even,claiming,credits,decisions,delayed,earnings,financial,income,planning,retirement,security,social,spousal,strategy,survivor,testfalse23fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/is-cash-really-king-the-hidden-risks-of-holding-too-much-money-in-savings--72562859
In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Paul Lane explore the role cash should play in a financial plan, the emotional comfort it provides, and the risks investors often overlook.

They cover:
●    Why cash isn’t as risk-free as many people assume
●    The impact of inflation and lost purchasing power
●    How opportunity cost can erode long-term wealth
●    Why investors often hold excess cash during uncertain markets
●    The difference between emergency funds and excess cash reserves
●    Common guidelines for determining how much cash to keep on hand
●    How interest rates, CDs, money markets, and Treasuries influence cash decisions
●    Why your ideal cash strategy changes based on age, retirement status, and financial goals
●    The role emotions play in investment decisions—and how cash can provide stability during market downturns

The key takeaway: cash can be an important part of a healthy financial plan, but there’s a difference between being prepared and being overly cautious. The right balance depends on your goals, timeline, and overall strategy.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72562859Wed, 17 Jun 2026 12:53:17 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupCash feels safe—but holding too much of it could quietly cost you over time. In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Paul Lane explore the role cash should play in a financial plan, the emotional comfort it...
In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Paul Lane explore the role cash should play in a financial plan, the emotional comfort it provides, and the risks investors often overlook.

They cover:
●    Why cash isn’t as risk-free as many people assume
●    The impact of inflation and lost purchasing power
●    How opportunity cost can erode long-term wealth
●    Why investors often hold excess cash during uncertain markets
●    The difference between emergency funds and excess cash reserves
●    Common guidelines for determining how much cash to keep on hand
●    How interest rates, CDs, money markets, and Treasuries influence cash decisions
●    Why your ideal cash strategy changes based on age, retirement status, and financial goals
●    The role emotions play in investment decisions—and how cash can provide stability during market downturns

The key takeaway: cash can be an important part of a healthy financial plan, but there’s a difference between being prepared and being overly cautious. The right balance depends on your goals, timeline, and overall strategy.

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>1785cash,invest,investing,investmentsfalse22fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/financial-priorities-by-age-what-to-focus-on-in-your-30s-40s-50s-beyond--71990592
In this episode of Make It Make Sense, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Michael Bradley break down the key financial goals and mistakes to watch for in every decade leading up to retirement.

They cover:
●    What people in their 30s should prioritize beyond just saving
●    Why your 40s can become the “peak chaos” years financially
●    The dangers of lifestyle creep and keeping up with the Joneses
●    How to balance retirement savings, debt payoff, and family expenses
●    Why liquidity matters just as much as retirement accounts
●    The importance of catch-up contributions once you turn 50
●    Common mistakes people make as retirement gets closer
●    How to transition from the accumulation phase to the withdrawal phase
●    What the 4% rule means for retirement income planning

The key takeaway: financial planning isn’t one-size-fits-all. The right priorities at 30 may be very different from the right priorities at 50 or 60—and understanding those shifts can dramatically improve your long-term financial future

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71990592Wed, 13 May 2026 14:56:19 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupYour financial priorities should change as you move through different stages of life—but many people never adjust their strategy. In this episode of Make It Make Sense, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Michael Bradley break down the key...
In this episode of Make It Make Sense, Michelle Cropley and financial advisor Michael Bradley break down the key financial goals and mistakes to watch for in every decade leading up to retirement.

They cover:
●    What people in their 30s should prioritize beyond just saving
●    Why your 40s can become the “peak chaos” years financially
●    The dangers of lifestyle creep and keeping up with the Joneses
●    How to balance retirement savings, debt payoff, and family expenses
●    Why liquidity matters just as much as retirement accounts
●    The importance of catch-up contributions once you turn 50
●    Common mistakes people make as retirement gets closer
●    How to transition from the accumulation phase to the withdrawal phase
●    What the 4% rule means for retirement income planning

The key takeaway: financial planning isn’t one-size-fits-all. The right priorities at 30 may be very different from the right priorities at 50 or 60—and understanding those shifts can dramatically improve your long-term financial future

Make It Make Cents is an educational personal finance podcast produced by Armstrong Advisory Group to help listeners better understand money decisions and long term planning concepts. The show covers broad financial topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and retirement planning.

“This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you. You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals. Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.”
]]>1643401k,armstrongadvisorygroup,catchupcontributions,debtmanagement,financialadvisor,financialfreedom,financialplanning,investing,lifestylecreep,longtermplanning,makeitmakesense,moneymanagement,moneymindset,personalfinance,retirementgoals,retirementincome,retirementplanning,retirementsavings,retirementtips,wealthmanagementfalse21fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/estate-planning-mistakes-that-cost-families-thousands-and-how-to-avoid-them--71928143Most financial planning mistakes don’t show up until it’s too late—after someone passes away.

In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley and financial advisor Brendan Hayes break down the most common (and costly) planning mistakes families make—and how to avoid them before they create real problems.

They cover:

●      Why account ownership and titling matter more than most people realize
●      The critical role of beneficiary designations (and what happens if they’re missing)
●      How improper planning can lead to probate, delays, and unintended outcomes
●      The hidden risks in IRAs, 401(k)s, and stock accounts
●      What “per stirpes” means—and why it matters for your family
●      Why having a trust isn’t enough if it’s not properly funded
●      The dangers of poor communication between spouses and family members
●      Real-world examples of mistakes that cost families tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars

The key takeaway: good planning isn’t just about having documents in place—it’s about making sure everything is aligned with your intentions and clearly understood by the people who matter most

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.  This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71928143Fri, 08 May 2026 18:34:00 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupMost financial planning mistakes don’t show up until it’s too late—after someone passes away. In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley and financial advisor Brendan Hayes break down the most common (and costly) planning mistakes...Most financial planning mistakes don’t show up until it’s too late—after someone passes away.

In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley and financial advisor Brendan Hayes break down the most common (and costly) planning mistakes families make—and how to avoid them before they create real problems.

They cover:

●      Why account ownership and titling matter more than most people realize
●      The critical role of beneficiary designations (and what happens if they’re missing)
●      How improper planning can lead to probate, delays, and unintended outcomes
●      The hidden risks in IRAs, 401(k)s, and stock accounts
●      What “per stirpes” means—and why it matters for your family
●      Why having a trust isn’t enough if it’s not properly funded
●      The dangers of poor communication between spouses and family members
●      Real-world examples of mistakes that cost families tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars

The key takeaway: good planning isn’t just about having documents in place—it’s about making sure everything is aligned with your intentions and clearly understood by the people who matter most

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.  This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1849false20fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tax-planning-after-filing-how-to-avoid-surprises-next-year--71927866Just filed your taxes? That might be the most important time to start planning for next year.

In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley and financial advisor Scott Wilson explain why tax planning shouldn’t happen once a year—and how small decisions now can lead to better outcomes later. 

 They cover:

●      The difference between tax preparation vs. tax planning
●      Why reviewing your recent tax return can uncover costly surprises
●      How RSUs, capital gains, and bonuses can impact your tax bill
●      Strategies to manage withholding and avoid IRS penalties
●      How to use 401(k)s, IRAs, and HSAs to reduce your tax burden
●      Smarter ways to think about investment taxes and asset location
●      When Roth strategies make sense—and when they don’t
●      Tax-efficient approaches to charitable giving and QCDs

The key takeaway: better tax outcomes don’t happen by accident—they come from planning early, staying organized, and making intentional decisions throughout the year.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.  This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71927866Fri, 08 May 2026 18:24:49 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupJust filed your taxes? That might be the most important time to start planning for next year. In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley and financial advisor Scott Wilson explain why tax planning shouldn’t happen once a year—and how...Just filed your taxes? That might be the most important time to start planning for next year.

In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley and financial advisor Scott Wilson explain why tax planning shouldn’t happen once a year—and how small decisions now can lead to better outcomes later. 

 They cover:

●      The difference between tax preparation vs. tax planning
●      Why reviewing your recent tax return can uncover costly surprises
●      How RSUs, capital gains, and bonuses can impact your tax bill
●      Strategies to manage withholding and avoid IRS penalties
●      How to use 401(k)s, IRAs, and HSAs to reduce your tax burden
●      Smarter ways to think about investment taxes and asset location
●      When Roth strategies make sense—and when they don’t
●      Tax-efficient approaches to charitable giving and QCDs

The key takeaway: better tax outcomes don’t happen by accident—they come from planning early, staying organized, and making intentional decisions throughout the year.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.  This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1409false19fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/why-you-spend-more-when-you-earn-more-lifestyle-creep-money-psychology--71855616Ever get a raise—and still feel like you’re not getting ahead? In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley and financial advisor Cash Armstrong break down the hidden psychology behind spending—and why earning more doesn’t always translate into building wealth.

They cover:

●        The psychology behind stress spending, retail therapy, and dopamine triggers
●        How anchoring and sunk cost bias quietly drain your money
●        The real impact of subscription creep and one-click buying
●        What “lifestyle creep” is—and how it keeps you stuck
●        Why your savings rate matters more than your salary
●        Simple strategies to control spending (without feeling deprived)
●        A breakdown of the FIRE movement and what it gets right—and wrong

The key takeaway: building wealth isn’t just about earning more—it’s about controlling behavior, staying intentional, and making sure your money is actually working for you.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.  This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71855616Mon, 04 May 2026 13:48:59 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupEver get a raise—and still feel like you’re not getting ahead? In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley and financial advisor Cash Armstrong break down the hidden psychology behind spending—and why earning more doesn’t always translate...Ever get a raise—and still feel like you’re not getting ahead? In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley and financial advisor Cash Armstrong break down the hidden psychology behind spending—and why earning more doesn’t always translate into building wealth.

They cover:

●        The psychology behind stress spending, retail therapy, and dopamine triggers
●        How anchoring and sunk cost bias quietly drain your money
●        The real impact of subscription creep and one-click buying
●        What “lifestyle creep” is—and how it keeps you stuck
●        Why your savings rate matters more than your salary
●        Simple strategies to control spending (without feeling deprived)
●        A breakdown of the FIRE movement and what it gets right—and wrong

The key takeaway: building wealth isn’t just about earning more—it’s about controlling behavior, staying intentional, and making sure your money is actually working for you.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.  This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1208false18fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/life-insurance-explained-term-vs-whole-life-costs-when-you-actually-need-it--71671925Life insurance is often seen as a must-have—but do you actually need it?

In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley is joined by financial advisor Paul Lane to break down the role of life insurance in a financial plan—and how to decide what’s right for you.

They cover:

●      The key differences between term life and whole life insurance
●      How universal and variable life policies really work
●      When life insurance makes sense—and when it doesn’t
●      How to determine the right amount of coverage
●      The role of life insurance in income replacement, debt protection, and legacy planning ●      Why premiums vary based on age, health, and policy type
●      How life insurance can be used in estate planning strategies
●      Common misconceptions about life insurance

The big takeaway: life insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all—and the right strategy depends on your goals, your financial situation, and your stage of life


Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.  This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71671925Mon, 27 Apr 2026 13:15:10 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupLife insurance is often seen as a must-have—but do you actually need it? In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley is joined by financial advisor Paul Lane to break down the role of life insurance in a financial plan—and how to decide...Life insurance is often seen as a must-have—but do you actually need it?

In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley is joined by financial advisor Paul Lane to break down the role of life insurance in a financial plan—and how to decide what’s right for you.

They cover:

●      The key differences between term life and whole life insurance
●      How universal and variable life policies really work
●      When life insurance makes sense—and when it doesn’t
●      How to determine the right amount of coverage
●      The role of life insurance in income replacement, debt protection, and legacy planning ●      Why premiums vary based on age, health, and policy type
●      How life insurance can be used in estate planning strategies
●      Common misconceptions about life insurance

The big takeaway: life insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all—and the right strategy depends on your goals, your financial situation, and your stage of life


Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.  This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1627false17fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/spring-cleaning-your-finances-what-most-people-miss--71495522Spring cleaning isn’t just for your home—it’s one of the best times to reset your finances.

In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley and Michael Bradley walk through a practical financial checklist to help you stay organized, avoid costly mistakes, and make smarter decisions throughout the year.

Also covered:

●      Why outdated beneficiaries can override your will
●      How to review and update your estate plan as life changes
●      What to look for when evaluating income, expenses, and savings
●      Ways to maximize employer benefits and reduce taxes
●      When to rebalance investments and improve tax efficiency

From estate planning to investing, this episode outlines a simple framework to keep your financial life on track.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.  This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71495522Mon, 20 Apr 2026 16:42:55 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupSpring cleaning isn’t just for your home—it’s one of the best times to reset your finances. In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley and Michael Bradley walk through a practical financial checklist to help you stay organized, avoid...Spring cleaning isn’t just for your home—it’s one of the best times to reset your finances.

In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley and Michael Bradley walk through a practical financial checklist to help you stay organized, avoid costly mistakes, and make smarter decisions throughout the year.

Also covered:

●      Why outdated beneficiaries can override your will
●      How to review and update your estate plan as life changes
●      What to look for when evaluating income, expenses, and savings
●      Ways to maximize employer benefits and reduce taxes
●      When to rebalance investments and improve tax efficiency

From estate planning to investing, this episode outlines a simple framework to keep your financial life on track.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.  This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1271false16fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/stock-compensation-explained-options-rsus-taxes-hidden-risks--71326984
In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley sits down with financial advisor Paul Lane to break down how stock compensation actually works—and how to make smarter decisions around it.

They cover:

●    The key differences between stock options, RSUs, and ESPPs
●    How stock compensation fits into your overall financial plan
●    When “equity upside” is worth it—and when it’s not
●    The risks of being overexposed to your own company
●    How vesting schedules and timing decisions impact your money
●    The tax implications you need to understand before selling
●    When it makes sense to hold vs. cash out your shares

Whether you’re evaluating a job offer or managing existing equity, this episode helps you think beyond the upside—and understand the real financial trade-offs.


Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.  This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71326984Tue, 14 Apr 2026 20:38:43 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupStock compensation can be a powerful wealth-building tool—but it’s also one of the most misunderstood parts of your paycheck. In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley sits down with financial advisor Paul Lane to break down how stock...
In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley sits down with financial advisor Paul Lane to break down how stock compensation actually works—and how to make smarter decisions around it.

They cover:

●    The key differences between stock options, RSUs, and ESPPs
●    How stock compensation fits into your overall financial plan
●    When “equity upside” is worth it—and when it’s not
●    The risks of being overexposed to your own company
●    How vesting schedules and timing decisions impact your money
●    The tax implications you need to understand before selling
●    When it makes sense to hold vs. cash out your shares

Whether you’re evaluating a job offer or managing existing equity, this episode helps you think beyond the upside—and understand the real financial trade-offs.


Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.  This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1781false15fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-hidden-costs-of-going-solo-in-retirement-taxes-medicare-planning-risks--71070257What does retirement look like when you’re going it alone—and what does it cost? In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Scott Wilson to break down the growing trend of “solo agers”—retirees navigating life without a spouse, partner, or built-in support system.

With nearly 30% of older adults living alone—and even higher percentages among women over 75—this isn’t a niche issue. It’s a major financial planning challenge.

They cover:

●      Why solo retirees may face higher Medicare premiums (IRMAA)
●      How RMDs and tax brackets can create a “widow’s penalty”
●      The hidden financial risks of filing single in retirement
●      Strategies like Roth conversions and charitable distributions
●      Why liquidity and emergency planning matter even more when you’re solo
●      The role of professional fiduciaries, estate planning, and beneficiaries
●      Housing decisions: aging in place vs. retirement communities

The key takeaway: going solo doesn’t just change your lifestyle—it can significantly impact your taxes, income, and long-term financial security.

If you’re planning for retirement (or already there), this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001.   Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71070257Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:36:03 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupWhat does retirement look like when you’re going it alone—and what does it cost? In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Scott Wilson to break down the growing trend of “solo agers”—retirees navigating...What does retirement look like when you’re going it alone—and what does it cost? In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Scott Wilson to break down the growing trend of “solo agers”—retirees navigating life without a spouse, partner, or built-in support system.

With nearly 30% of older adults living alone—and even higher percentages among women over 75—this isn’t a niche issue. It’s a major financial planning challenge.

They cover:

●      Why solo retirees may face higher Medicare premiums (IRMAA)
●      How RMDs and tax brackets can create a “widow’s penalty”
●      The hidden financial risks of filing single in retirement
●      Strategies like Roth conversions and charitable distributions
●      Why liquidity and emergency planning matter even more when you’re solo
●      The role of professional fiduciaries, estate planning, and beneficiaries
●      Housing decisions: aging in place vs. retirement communities

The key takeaway: going solo doesn’t just change your lifestyle—it can significantly impact your taxes, income, and long-term financial security.

If you’re planning for retirement (or already there), this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001.   Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1321false14fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/should-i-retire-a-financial-and-personal-readiness-checklist--71024610Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Brendan Hayes to explore one of the biggest life decisions many people face: should I retire?

They examine retirement from multiple angles — financial, strategic, and emotional — and explain why the answer isn’t always as straightforward as “can I afford it?”

They discuss:
 · How to determine what you truly spend — and what retirement will actually cost
 · The time-versus-money question: when is enough enough?
 · Market risk and sequence-of-returns risk in early retirement
 · How health, energy, and longevity factor into timing
 · The emotional side of retirement — purpose, identity, and socialization
 · Tax planning strategies before and during retirement
 · When to claim Social Security and how longevity affects that decision
 · How to think about legacy goals without sacrificing your own time

Retirement isn’t just about having a number in mind — it’s about aligning financial security, tax strategy, and psychological readiness. When those pieces come together, the decision becomes clearer.

To learn more or schedule a no-obligation consultation, visit armstrongadvisory.com or call (800) 393-4001.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71024610Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:15:57 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupIn this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Brendan Hayes to explore one of the biggest life decisions many people face: should I retire? They examine retirement from...Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Brendan Hayes to explore one of the biggest life decisions many people face: should I retire?

They examine retirement from multiple angles — financial, strategic, and emotional — and explain why the answer isn’t always as straightforward as “can I afford it?”

They discuss:
 · How to determine what you truly spend — and what retirement will actually cost
 · The time-versus-money question: when is enough enough?
 · Market risk and sequence-of-returns risk in early retirement
 · How health, energy, and longevity factor into timing
 · The emotional side of retirement — purpose, identity, and socialization
 · Tax planning strategies before and during retirement
 · When to claim Social Security and how longevity affects that decision
 · How to think about legacy goals without sacrificing your own time

Retirement isn’t just about having a number in mind — it’s about aligning financial security, tax strategy, and psychological readiness. When those pieces come together, the decision becomes clearer.

To learn more or schedule a no-obligation consultation, visit armstrongadvisory.com or call (800) 393-4001.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1825false13fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/estate-planning-at-every-stage--71024555Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Paul Lane to discuss estate planning — and why it’s important at every stage of life.

They begin with the basics for newly married couples and young families, covering foundational documents like wills, durable powers of attorney, and healthcare proxies. Paul explains why estate planning isn’t just about end-of-life decisions, but also about protecting your spouse and children in cases of incapacity. The conversation then shifts to how estate planning priorities evolve as families approach retirement, including:

 · Why a will alone may not avoid probate
 · When a trust may make sense
 · Estate tax considerations in Massachusetts
 · Bloodline and divorce protection planning
 · Nursing home planning basics
 · Charitable giving strategies in retirement
 · How required minimum distributions can be used for tax-efficient giving

Estate planning isn’t a one-time task — it’s an evolving strategy that should grow alongside your family, assets, and goals.

To learn more or schedule a no-obligation consultation, visit armstrongadvisory.com or call (800) 393-4001.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71024555Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:15:48 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupIn this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Paul Lane to discuss estate planning — and why it’s important at every stage of life. They begin with the basics for newly...Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Paul Lane to discuss estate planning — and why it’s important at every stage of life.

They begin with the basics for newly married couples and young families, covering foundational documents like wills, durable powers of attorney, and healthcare proxies. Paul explains why estate planning isn’t just about end-of-life decisions, but also about protecting your spouse and children in cases of incapacity. The conversation then shifts to how estate planning priorities evolve as families approach retirement, including:

 · Why a will alone may not avoid probate
 · When a trust may make sense
 · Estate tax considerations in Massachusetts
 · Bloodline and divorce protection planning
 · Nursing home planning basics
 · Charitable giving strategies in retirement
 · How required minimum distributions can be used for tax-efficient giving

Estate planning isn’t a one-time task — it’s an evolving strategy that should grow alongside your family, assets, and goals.

To learn more or schedule a no-obligation consultation, visit armstrongadvisory.com or call (800) 393-4001.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1675false12fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/emergency-funds-why-they-matter-and-how-to-build-one--70662467
They explain what qualifies as a true emergency, how much you should aim to save, and practical steps to build your reserve over time.

They discuss:
 · What an emergency fund is — and what it’s not
 · How much to save based on your situation and income stability
 · Why three to six months of expenses is a common rule of thumb
 · Where to keep your emergency savings
 · Why using a 401(k) or investment account as a backup plan can be costly
 · Common mistakes that weaken emergency funds
 · The connection between savings and reduced financial stress
 · Why even high earners can struggle without a cash cushion

An emergency fund isn’t just extra cash — it’s a tool that helps protect your broader financial plan and keeps unexpected setbacks from turning into long-term financial damage.

To learn more or schedule a no-obligation consultation, visit armstrongadvisory.com or call (800) 393-4001.



Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70662467Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:15:37 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupIn this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley is joineIn this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michelle Cropley is joined by financial advisor Michael Bradley to...
They explain what qualifies as a true emergency, how much you should aim to save, and practical steps to build your reserve over time.

They discuss:
 · What an emergency fund is — and what it’s not
 · How much to save based on your situation and income stability
 · Why three to six months of expenses is a common rule of thumb
 · Where to keep your emergency savings
 · Why using a 401(k) or investment account as a backup plan can be costly
 · Common mistakes that weaken emergency funds
 · The connection between savings and reduced financial stress
 · Why even high earners can struggle without a cash cushion

An emergency fund isn’t just extra cash — it’s a tool that helps protect your broader financial plan and keeps unexpected setbacks from turning into long-term financial damage.

To learn more or schedule a no-obligation consultation, visit armstrongadvisory.com or call (800) 393-4001.



Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1315false11fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/travel-smarter-how-to-avoid-hidden-fees-and-protect-your-money-abroad--70661735Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Cash Armstrong to discuss how travelers can avoid hidden fees and protect their money while abroad.

From surprise ATM charges to rental car insurance confusion, Michelle and Cash walk through the financial traps that can quietly drain your travel budget — and the practical tools that can help you avoid them. 

They discuss:
 · How foreign ATM fees and currency conversion markups work
 · Checking and brokerage accounts that reimburse international ATM fees
 · The difference between co-branded and flexible travel credit cards
 · How to evaluate annual fees versus travel perks
 · When your existing auto insurance covers rental cars — and when it doesn’t
 · What your health insurance may (or may not) cover overseas
 · When supplemental travel insurance makes sense
 · Overlooked protections in renter’s and homeowner’s insurance
 · Practical safety tips like VPN use and notifying your bank before travel

The money you save while traveling is money that can support your long-term financial goals. Michelle and Cash explain how thoughtful planning — even for vacations — fits into a broader financial strategy.

Learn more at armstrongadvisory.com or call (800) 393-4001 to schedule a no-obligation consultation.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70661735Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:15:31 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupIn this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Cash Armstrong to discuss how travelers can avoid hidden fees and protect their money while abroad. From surprise ATM charges...Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Cash Armstrong to discuss how travelers can avoid hidden fees and protect their money while abroad.

From surprise ATM charges to rental car insurance confusion, Michelle and Cash walk through the financial traps that can quietly drain your travel budget — and the practical tools that can help you avoid them. 

They discuss:
 · How foreign ATM fees and currency conversion markups work
 · Checking and brokerage accounts that reimburse international ATM fees
 · The difference between co-branded and flexible travel credit cards
 · How to evaluate annual fees versus travel perks
 · When your existing auto insurance covers rental cars — and when it doesn’t
 · What your health insurance may (or may not) cover overseas
 · When supplemental travel insurance makes sense
 · Overlooked protections in renter’s and homeowner’s insurance
 · Practical safety tips like VPN use and notifying your bank before travel

The money you save while traveling is money that can support your long-term financial goals. Michelle and Cash explain how thoughtful planning — even for vacations — fits into a broader financial strategy.

Learn more at armstrongadvisory.com or call (800) 393-4001 to schedule a no-obligation consultation.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1280false10fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/making-sense-of-retirement-income-planning--70662022Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Scott Wilson to explore retirement withdrawal strategies — including the well-known 4% rule and flexible withdrawal approaches.

They discuss:
 · What the 4% rule is and where it originated
 · Why it remains popular — and its key limitations
 · How market conditions, inflation, asset allocation, and taxes affect withdrawal sustainability
 · What “sequence of returns risk” means and why early losses in retirement matter
 · How flexible withdrawal strategies work — and who they may be best suited for
 · Why retirement isn’t a single phase, but multiple chapters with changing income needs
 · The importance of reviewing your withdrawal strategy regularly

While rules of thumb can be helpful starting points, Scott explains why personalized planning — and stress testing your strategy — can make a meaningful difference in building sustainable retirement income.

Learn more: armstrongadvisory.com | Call (800) 393-4001

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70662022Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:15:19 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupMaking Sense of Retirement Income Planning In this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Scott Wilson to explore retirement withdrawal strategies — including the well-known...Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Scott Wilson to explore retirement withdrawal strategies — including the well-known 4% rule and flexible withdrawal approaches.

They discuss:
 · What the 4% rule is and where it originated
 · Why it remains popular — and its key limitations
 · How market conditions, inflation, asset allocation, and taxes affect withdrawal sustainability
 · What “sequence of returns risk” means and why early losses in retirement matter
 · How flexible withdrawal strategies work — and who they may be best suited for
 · Why retirement isn’t a single phase, but multiple chapters with changing income needs
 · The importance of reviewing your withdrawal strategy regularly

While rules of thumb can be helpful starting points, Scott explains why personalized planning — and stress testing your strategy — can make a meaningful difference in building sustainable retirement income.

Learn more: armstrongadvisory.com | Call (800) 393-4001

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1576false9fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/emotional-and-behavioral-side-of-personal-finance--70662343On this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Brendan Hayes to explore the emotional and behavioral side of personal finance, and how our relationship with money shapes everyday decisions. In this episode, you’ll learn: ●      How early experiences influence spending and saving habits

●      Why money should be viewed as a tool—not an identity

●      Common financial behaviors that quietly create stress or imbalance

●      How intentional planning can bring clarity, confidence, and long-term balance  

If you have questions about your financial strategy or want help creating a plan that fits your life, the Armstrong Advisory Group offers free, no-obligation consultations at offices across New England. Visit armstrongadvisory.com or call 800-393-4001 to learn more.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70662343Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:15:10 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupOn this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Brendan Hayes to explore the emotional and behavioral side of personal finance, and how our relationship with money shapes everyday decisions. In this episode,...On this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Brendan Hayes to explore the emotional and behavioral side of personal finance, and how our relationship with money shapes everyday decisions. In this episode, you’ll learn: ●      How early experiences influence spending and saving habits

●      Why money should be viewed as a tool—not an identity

●      Common financial behaviors that quietly create stress or imbalance

●      How intentional planning can bring clarity, confidence, and long-term balance  

If you have questions about your financial strategy or want help creating a plan that fits your life, the Armstrong Advisory Group offers free, no-obligation consultations at offices across New England. Visit armstrongadvisory.com or call 800-393-4001 to learn more.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1872false8fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/psychology-of-building-wealth--71069243
Topics include:

●    Emergency savings as a financial shock absorber
●    Consumer debt ratios and why 20% is a critical threshold
●    Housing cost guidelines and total debt-to-income limits
●    Why saving while carrying high-interest credit card debt can backfire
●    Common cognitive errors: anchoring, confirmation bias, overconfidence
●    Emotional biases like loss aversion, inertia, and the endowment effect
●    How automation can help overcome self-control challenges

This episode is a practical guide for anyone looking to boost savings, reduce financial stress, and understand how psychology influences everyday money decisions.

Learn more or request a no-obligation consultation at armstrongadvisory.com or call (800) 393-4001.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71069243Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:15:01 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupBuilding wealth isn’t just about math—it’s also about behavior. In this episode of Make It Make Cents, Michelle Cropley and Cash Armstrong explore how strong financial foundations and self-awareness go hand in hand. Topics include: ●    Emergency...
Topics include:

●    Emergency savings as a financial shock absorber
●    Consumer debt ratios and why 20% is a critical threshold
●    Housing cost guidelines and total debt-to-income limits
●    Why saving while carrying high-interest credit card debt can backfire
●    Common cognitive errors: anchoring, confirmation bias, overconfidence
●    Emotional biases like loss aversion, inertia, and the endowment effect
●    How automation can help overcome self-control challenges

This episode is a practical guide for anyone looking to boost savings, reduce financial stress, and understand how psychology influences everyday money decisions.

Learn more or request a no-obligation consultation at armstrongadvisory.com or call (800) 393-4001.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1464false7fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/financial-scams-protection--70613390Scams are on the rise—and they’re designed to trigger urgency, fear, and emotional decision-making. In this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley and Michael Bradley walk through the most common financial scams and the smartest ways to protect your money. Topics include: ●      Why “smart people” still fall for scams (urgency + emotion + secrecy)

●      Investment scams and the #1 red flag: guaranteed quick returns

●      Romance scams and “pig butchering” long-con tactics

●      Impersonation and phishing scams (fake banks, utilities, and billing emails)

●      Best protection habits: strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, fraud alerts, and reviewing accounts regularly

●      What to do immediately if you’re scammed: cut contact, call your bank, dispute charges, freeze credit, and report to FTC/authorities

 Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. Armstrong Advisory can also share a newsletter issue on this topic at no cost. Learn more: armstrongadvisory.com | Call (800) 393-4001

This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70613390Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:09:57 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupScams are on the rise—and they’re designed to trigger urgency, fear, and emotional decision-making. In this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley and Michael Bradley walk through the most common financial...Scams are on the rise—and they’re designed to trigger urgency, fear, and emotional decision-making. In this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley and Michael Bradley walk through the most common financial scams and the smartest ways to protect your money. Topics include: ●      Why “smart people” still fall for scams (urgency + emotion + secrecy)

●      Investment scams and the #1 red flag: guaranteed quick returns

●      Romance scams and “pig butchering” long-con tactics

●      Impersonation and phishing scams (fake banks, utilities, and billing emails)

●      Best protection habits: strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, fraud alerts, and reviewing accounts regularly

●      What to do immediately if you’re scammed: cut contact, call your bank, dispute charges, freeze credit, and report to FTC/authorities

 Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. Armstrong Advisory can also share a newsletter issue on this topic at no cost. Learn more: armstrongadvisory.com | Call (800) 393-4001

This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1434false6fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/inherited-investment-accounts-smart-financial-goal-setting--70613531Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Scott Wilson to discuss two important financial topics: navigating inherited investment accounts and setting meaningful financial goals for the year ahead. They begin by exploring what to do when you inherit an investment account — including why most decisions aren’t urgent and why taking time to evaluate your options matters. Scott explains the differences between inherited taxable accounts and retirement accounts, how step-up in cost basis works, and what tax considerations may apply depending on your relationship to the decedent.

They also discuss:
 · How inherited IRAs and the 10-year rule may affect distribution planning
 · Required minimum distributions and tax-efficient withdrawal strategies
 · Emotional decision risk and concentration risk
 · Why inherited investments should align with your own risk profile and goals

In the second half of the episode, the focus shifts to financial goal setting. With the new year as a backdrop, Michele and Scott walk through practical strategies for paying down debt, increasing savings, building a realistic budget, and automating financial progress. 

Key takeaways include:
 · How to prioritize debt repayment strategies
 · Why automation is one of the most powerful financial tools
 · The importance of measuring spending before trying to manage it
 · How to make retirement saving more effective through consistency and early contributions

Whether you’re navigating an inheritance or working to strengthen your financial foundation, thoughtful planning and customization are key. 

To learn more or schedule a no-obligation consultation, visit armstrongadvisory.com or call (800) 393-4001.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70613531Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:08:33 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupIn this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Scott Wilson to discuss two important financial topics: navigating inherited investment accounts and setting meaningful...Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley is joined by financial advisor Scott Wilson to discuss two important financial topics: navigating inherited investment accounts and setting meaningful financial goals for the year ahead. They begin by exploring what to do when you inherit an investment account — including why most decisions aren’t urgent and why taking time to evaluate your options matters. Scott explains the differences between inherited taxable accounts and retirement accounts, how step-up in cost basis works, and what tax considerations may apply depending on your relationship to the decedent.

They also discuss:
 · How inherited IRAs and the 10-year rule may affect distribution planning
 · Required minimum distributions and tax-efficient withdrawal strategies
 · Emotional decision risk and concentration risk
 · Why inherited investments should align with your own risk profile and goals

In the second half of the episode, the focus shifts to financial goal setting. With the new year as a backdrop, Michele and Scott walk through practical strategies for paying down debt, increasing savings, building a realistic budget, and automating financial progress. 

Key takeaways include:
 · How to prioritize debt repayment strategies
 · Why automation is one of the most powerful financial tools
 · The importance of measuring spending before trying to manage it
 · How to make retirement saving more effective through consistency and early contributions

Whether you’re navigating an inheritance or working to strengthen your financial foundation, thoughtful planning and customization are key. 

To learn more or schedule a no-obligation consultation, visit armstrongadvisory.com or call (800) 393-4001.

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's...]]>1869false4fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-can-an-advisor-do-for-me-asset-allocation--70613372Make It Make Sense (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley and Paul Lane cover two foundational topics: what a financial advisor does and why asset allocation matters. ●      How advisors help organize accounts, liabilities, income streams, and goals

●      Planning topics by life stage (college planning, insurance, retirement, Social Security, tax buckets)

●      What advisors don’t do: no guaranteed returns, no “dodging” market losses

●      The building blocks: stocks, bonds/fixed income, and cash

●      How time horizon changes risk tolerance (retirement vs. a near-term home down payment)

●      What rebalancing means and why it helps reduce emotional decision-making

Learn more: armstrongadvisory.com | Call (800) 393-4001

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70613372Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:07:47 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupIn this episode of Make It Make Sense (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley and Paul Lane cover two foundational topics: what a financial advisor does and why asset allocation matters. ●      How advisors help organize accounts,...Make It Make Sense (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley and Paul Lane cover two foundational topics: what a financial advisor does and why asset allocation matters. ●      How advisors help organize accounts, liabilities, income streams, and goals

●      Planning topics by life stage (college planning, insurance, retirement, Social Security, tax buckets)

●      What advisors don’t do: no guaranteed returns, no “dodging” market losses

●      The building blocks: stocks, bonds/fixed income, and cash

●      How time horizon changes risk tolerance (retirement vs. a near-term home down payment)

●      What rebalancing means and why it helps reduce emotional decision-making

Learn more: armstrongadvisory.com | Call (800) 393-4001

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1642false5fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/early-retirement-saving-for-retirement--70613232Are you saving enough to retire—or working longer than you really need to? In this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley and Brendan Hayes unpack the realities of early retirement planning and how to calculate the amount you actually need to retire with confidence. Topics include: ●      What “early retirement” really means vs. simply not working longer than necessary

●      Health, stress, and the limited window of truly active retirement years

●      Planning for longevity risk and living into your 90s (or beyond)

●      The financial challenges of 40–50 year retirements

●      Inflation, healthcare costs, and long-term care considerations

●      How to accurately calculate retirement spending (and common mistakes people make)

●      Retirement lifestyle choices, reinvention, and purpose after full-time work

Learn more or schedule a free consultation: armstrongadvisory.com | (800) 393-4001

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70613232Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:07:24 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupAre you saving enough to retire—or working longer than you really need to? In this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley and Brendan Hayes unpack the realities of early retirement planning and how to...Are you saving enough to retire—or working longer than you really need to? In this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley and Brendan Hayes unpack the realities of early retirement planning and how to calculate the amount you actually need to retire with confidence. Topics include: ●      What “early retirement” really means vs. simply not working longer than necessary

●      Health, stress, and the limited window of truly active retirement years

●      Planning for longevity risk and living into your 90s (or beyond)

●      The financial challenges of 40–50 year retirements

●      Inflation, healthcare costs, and long-term care considerations

●      How to accurately calculate retirement spending (and common mistakes people make)

●      Retirement lifestyle choices, reinvention, and purpose after full-time work

Learn more or schedule a free consultation: armstrongadvisory.com | (800) 393-4001

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1754false3fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/529-plans--71024444In this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley and Cash Armstrong explain how 529 plans work and when it may make sense to move leftover 529 money into a Roth IRA.

Topics include:

●      What a 529 plan is and why it’s popular for college savings

●      Tax-free growth and qualified education expenses

●      State-specific tax deductions and incentives

●      Contribution rules, gifting limits, and 529 “superfunding”

●      How 529 ownership affects FAFSA and financial aid eligibility

●      What happens if a child doesn’t attend college or earns a scholarship

Learn more or schedule a free consultation: armstrongadvisory.com | (800) 393-4001

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.  This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71024444Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:07:08 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupIn this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley and Cash Armstrong explain how 529 plans work and when it may make sense to move leftover 529 money into a Roth IRA. Topics include: ●      What a 529 plan...In this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley and Cash Armstrong explain how 529 plans work and when it may make sense to move leftover 529 money into a Roth IRA.

Topics include:

●      What a 529 plan is and why it’s popular for college savings

●      Tax-free growth and qualified education expenses

●      State-specific tax deductions and incentives

●      Contribution rules, gifting limits, and 529 “superfunding”

●      How 529 ownership affects FAFSA and financial aid eligibility

●      What happens if a child doesn’t attend college or earns a scholarship

Learn more or schedule a free consultation: armstrongadvisory.com | (800) 393-4001

Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.  This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1622false2fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/roth-401k-roth-ira-insights--71024501Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley and Michael Bradley cover two important retirement tax strategies: Roth contributions in an employer plan and Traditional IRA → Roth IRA conversions.

●      How Roth workplace contributions differ from traditional pre-tax contributions

●      Employer match: why it typically goes into a pre-tax bucket

●      Contribution limits (higher than Roth IRA limits)

●      When Roth may not fit (tax bracket, take-home pay, potential bracket creep)

●      Why conversions can be useful in lower-income years or early retirement years

●      How conversions can reduce future RMDs

Learn more: armstrongadvisory.com | Call (800) 393-4001


Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.  This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71024501Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:06:56 +0000Armstrong Advisory GroupIn this episode of Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley and Michael Bradley cover two important retirement tax strategies: Roth contributions in an employer plan and Traditional IRA → Roth IRA conversions. ●     ...Make It Make Cents (powered by Armstrong Advisory Group), Michele Cropley and Michael Bradley cover two important retirement tax strategies: Roth contributions in an employer plan and Traditional IRA → Roth IRA conversions.

●      How Roth workplace contributions differ from traditional pre-tax contributions

●      Employer match: why it typically goes into a pre-tax bucket

●      Contribution limits (higher than Roth IRA limits)

●      When Roth may not fit (tax bracket, take-home pay, potential bracket creep)

●      Why conversions can be useful in lower-income years or early retirement years

●      How conversions can reduce future RMDs

Learn more: armstrongadvisory.com | Call (800) 393-4001


Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.  This content of the post or podcast is intended solely to provide general information regarding our business services. Nothing within the post constitutes personalized investment advice or is an offer to buy or sell any security or insurance product. To the extent you wish to engage us for investment advice based upon your personal investment circumstances and objectives, please contact us directly at (781) 433-0001. Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice, and no portion of the post or podcast should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. You are strongly encouraged to seek advice from qualified tax and/or legal experts regarding any tax or legal matters relevant to you.   You agree, as a condition precedent to your access to the post or podcast, to release and hold harmless Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc., its officers, directors, owners, employees, and agents from any and all adverse consequences resulting from any of your actions or omissions, which are independent of your receipt of personalized investment advice from Armstrong Advisory Group, Inc.   Armstrong Advisory Group ("AAG") is affiliated with an insurance agency called Armstrong Insurance Group, Inc. ("AIGI"). AIGI offers insurance products and services to customers, including investment advisory clients of AAG. AAG refers clients to AIGI for those products and services. AIGI does not, however, compensate AAG for any referrals.   Certain AAG representatives are also licensed as insurance professionals appointed with AIGI and may earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products implemented for AAG clients. Insurance commissions earned by AAG representatives are separate and in addition to AAG's advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest as the representative has a financial incentive to recommend insurance products to a client. Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any of AAG's representatives or any other AAG affiliated person.]]>1336false1full