In this heartwarming episode, Tim Goodwin welcomes Tara Bruce, the creative force behind Goodwin Investment Advisory's content, to explore the Danish concept of "hygge" — the art of coziness. The conversation weaves through personal stories, practical tips, and reflections on finding happiness and gratitude in the slower moments of life.

Tara shares her magical experience visiting Copenhagen, where she immersed herself in the wonder of winter, the charm of Christmas markets, and the intentionality of Danish culture. From sipping warm mulled wine in real mugs to embracing the glow of candles and fires, her journey emphasizes how simple joys and cozy spaces can bring a sense of peace and presence.

Key takeaways include:

• The Power of Environment: How thoughtful surroundings impact happiness and well-being.
• The Magic of Winter: Learning to appreciate the slower, reflective pace of the season.
• Hygge Practices: Ideas like lighting candles, enjoying warm foods, creating inviting spaces, and engaging with loved ones.
• Gratitude and Mindfulness: Simple practices like the "5 Senses Exercise" to help anchor you in the present.

The episode is a reminder to slow down, embrace simplicity, and find beauty in the everyday.

Ready to bring the spirit of coziness into your own life? Download our updated guide, The Art of Coziness, for practical tips to create a warm, inviting space and cultivate gratitude. Click HERE to access the guide and subscribe to our blog for more insightful content. Embrace the magic of the moment—because every day is a special occasion!

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In this podcast episode, host Tim Goodwin and guest Joe Beckford (affectionately called "Beckforth") discuss the role and benefits of fee-only financial advisors, addressing common misconceptions. Joe, a senior advisor at Goodwin Investment Advisory, explains that fee-only advisors are compensated solely by client fees, without commissions from third-party products. They delve into the three primary compensation models: Asset Under Management (AUM), which charges a percentage of managed assets; flat fees, which involve fixed payments; and hourly fees, billed for specific advice or services. Goodwin Investment Advisory prefers the AUM model as it aligns client and advisor interests, incentivizing portfolio growth while providing comprehensive financial planning, tax strategies, and risk management.

The discussion highlights that fee-only advisors are not inherently more expensive but focus on long-term value by minimizing fees, maximizing returns, and reducing financial anxiety. Transparency is a cornerstone of the firm's approach, with no commissions accepted since its founding, and clients are encouraged to ask about compensation and review credentials, complaints, and testimonials when selecting an advisor. The episode wraps up with a reflection on the meaningful relationships built through ongoing client engagement and a note of gratitude, emphasizing the importance of trust and collaboration in financial planning.

In this episode, Tim Goodwin and Justin Pitcock walk listeners through the Year-End Financial Planning Checklist designed to help you close out the year with a solid financial plan. The conversation covers critical topics like:

Estate and Disability Planning

Reviewing estate planning documents (wills, trusts, POAs, and healthcare directives).
Updating beneficiary designations to ensure alignment with your wishes.
Preparing a list of instructions for loved ones in case of death or disability.
Exploring the benefits of giving early inheritances within the annual exclusion limit.
Retirement Planning

Maximizing 401(k) contributions and understanding new catch-up contribution rules.
Evaluating the benefits of Roth conversions for long-term tax strategy.
Investment Planning

Rebalancing portfolios to ensure alignment with risk tolerance and time horizon.
Managing concentrated stock positions to mitigate risks.
Utilizing tax strategies like capital gains harvesting and loss carryforwards.
Tax Planning

Leveraging Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) for triple tax advantages.
Exploring donor-advised funds (DAFs) for streamlined and impactful charitable giving.
Utilizing state-specific tax strategies like Georgia's Heart and Goal Programs and SALT cap workarounds

Want to dive deeper into these strategies? Download our Curated End-of-Year Planning Guide to make the most of your financial planning this season. Download Now

If you're unsure where to start or need personalized guidance, schedule a no-obligation introductory call with our team. We're here to help! Schedule a Call