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Check Your Balances

Check Your Balances

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

© 2026 Check Your Balances
Economics Personal Finance Self-Help Success
Episodes
  • What Companies Do We Hold Grudges Against?
    Apr 29 2026

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

    Send us Fan Mail

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

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

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

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

    Send us Fan Mail

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

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    23 mins
  • Is Your Retirement Carve Out Long Enough?
    Apr 15 2026

    This week we re-examine our favorite strategy for making the transition into retirement, the "Carve Out." When transitioning into retirement, the safe asset bucket or "Carve Out" is often touted as the ultimate psychological safety net. But how much cash is actually enough to weather a prolonged market downturn without selling equities at a loss?

    In this episode, we revisit the mechanics of the retirement carve out. Is 5 years the magic number? Whether you are five years out or already enjoying your golden years, we explore the strategies needed to ensure your liquidity matches your needs.

    Send us Fan Mail

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

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    25 mins
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