Power Up Wealth

Hosted by Smedley Financial

Business Investing

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Episodes

113

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Welcome to the Power Up Wealth podcast, where we provide impactful insight and expert opinions on timeless financial principles and timely investment topics--preparing you to make smarter decisions with your money. Reach out to us at smedleyfinancial.com for additional information and all disclosures. The views expressed are Smedley Financials and should not be construed, directly or indirectly, as an offer to buy or sell any securities or services mentioned herein. Investing is subject to risks, including loss of principal invested. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. No strategy can assure a profit nor protect against loss. Please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should only be relied upon when coordinated with individual professional advice. Securities offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Smedley Financial Services, Inc.® Osaic Wealth is separately owned, and other entities and/or marketing names, products, or services referenced here are independent of Osaic Wealth . Smedley Financial is located at 102 S 200 E Ste 100 in Salt Lake City, UT 84111. Call us today at 800-748-4788. You can also find us on the web at Smedleyfinancial.com, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 18, 2026Episode 1199 min

From 50K to 100K: Is the Dow’s Next Giant Leap Real?

In this episode, James Derrick and Mikal Aune unpack the Dow’s recent climb to 50,000 and whether 100,000 is a realistic next stop. Drawing on experience from the 2000 tech bubble and the 2008 crash, Mikal argues the market’s long-term trajectory makes doubling from 50K achievable—potentially within a decade at modest historical returns. They stress the difference between short-term headlines and long-term planning, explain why round numbers are psychological rather than fundamental, and remind listeners that volatility and pullbacks are normal parts of a growing market.

August 4, 2026Episode 11810 min

Refunds, Bonuses, and Better Decisions: Turn Windfalls into Wealth

Amy Hansen and James Derrick walk listeners through how to treat one-time windfalls—like tax refunds or work bonuses—with intention. They caution against letting the government or inflation erode your money by overpaying taxes or leaving cash idle in checking or low-yield savings. Instead, they recommend prioritizing high-interest debt paydown (credit cards, auto loans), building an emergency fund, and then directing remaining funds toward investments that can outpace inflation. Practical tips include talking to a CPA about withholding, using a portion for personal development or enjoyment, and considering charitable giving as part of a balanced plan.

July 21, 2026Episode 11712 min

The Pink Steering Wheel: When a Roth Conversion Isn't Your Ride

In this episode, James Derrick and Jordan Hadfield use a funny grocery-store mixup—the pink steering wheel—to illustrate a serious point about Roth conversions: the tool is powerful, but it isn’t right for everyone. Jordan walks through key considerations beyond the surface-level appeal of tax-free growth, including current vs. future tax brackets, the pro rata rule, effects on Social Security taxation, capital gains exposure, Medicaid/IRMAA impacts, and other hidden ‘‘taxes’’ like inflation and tariffs. The takeaway: crunch the numbers, evaluate personal circumstances, and consult a professional before jumping into a Roth conversion.

July 7, 2026Episode 11614 min

Preventing Financial Turmoil for Surviving Spouses

This episode of the Power Power Up Wealth podcast features Parker Thompson, a certified financial planning expert, with host James Derrick discussing the immense $54 trillion financial transfer expected over the next decade to surviving spouses. The conversation highlights the importance of planning ahead to ease financial transitions when a spouse passes away, covering key topics like tax implications due to the widow's penalty, changes in cash flow, and the significance of understanding pensions. Listeners are encouraged to adopt an active role in financial matters preemptively, ensuring a smooth transition during difficult times.

June 23, 2026Episode 1157 min

The Rise of Women's Wealth: A Financial Revolution

In this episode of the Power Up Wealth Podcast with James Derrick and Amy Hansen, the discussion revolves around the increasing influence of women in financial markets. Women now control over 35% of wealth in America, and their investment strategies often outperform men's. Despite feeling less confident, women exhibit better investment outcomes by focusing on companies they believe in and taking fewer risks. The episode encourages women to engage actively in financial planning, seek guidance, and increase contributions to retirement plans, highlighting the importance of financial literacy for a secure future.

June 9, 2026Episode 11413 min

Direct Indexing: Tax Efficiency for the Modern Investor

James Derrick and Mikal Aune delve into the growing popularity of direct indexing in this podcast episode that outlines its benefits for investors with sizable non-retirement portfolios. The discussion centers on using direct indexing to harvest losses intentionally, offsetting gains with a method previously exclusive to the affluent. The importance of technology and reduced trading costs is underscored in making direct indexing accessible. Mikal explains the mechanics of the strategy, including replication of indices like the S&P 500, while advisors play a critical role in planning and optimizing tax outcomes to benefit clients significantly.

May 27, 2026Episode 11314 min

Will Housing Slow the Economy?

This podcast episode explores the current state of the housing market, highlighting a 9% decline in home sales and the resulting pressure on policymakers. James Derrick, President of Smedley Financial and a financial strategist, discusses potential solutions, including increasing housing supply, allowing 401k funds to be used for home purchases, and federal involvement in mortgage-backed securities to reduce interest rates. The conversation also touches on innovative financing ideas like the 50-year mortgage and portable mortgages, though these face significant hurdles. While cautioning against using home equity to fund retirement, James emphasizes the importance of maintaining affordable, stable housing to support the overall economy.

May 12, 2026Episode 11212 min

Good Debt, Bad Debt: Know the Difference

Join James Derrick and Parker Thompson as they unravel the complexities of debt in this informative podcast episode. The duo breaks down various types of debt, concentrating on actionable advice for managing personal debt effectively. They outline what constitutes good debt, such as housing and education investments with potential long-term value, versus bad debt from quickly depreciating items. Listeners learn about smart repayment strategies to tackle high-interest debt and tailored advice on maintaining a balanced financial state. This episode serves as a valuable guide for making informed decisions that bolster financial growth and security.

April 30, 2026Episode 11111 min

Navigating Your 20s to 60s: Timeless Financial Advice

This podcast episode features James Derrick and financial expert Amy Hansen discussing financial strategies tailored to each decade of life, from your 20s to your 60s and beyond. The conversation stresses the importance of establishing healthy financial habits early and adjusting them as you grow older. Key topics include avoiding excessive debt, deciding whether to buy or rent a home, and the importance of retirement planning. Special focus is also given to understanding the right time to claim Social Security and how to ensure you don't outlive your assets, all while emphasizing the significance of seeking professional financial advice.

April 17, 2026Episode 11013 min

Unlocking Generational Wealth: Beyond Money

In this insightful podcast episode, James Derrick and Mikal Aune discuss the challenges families face in maintaining their wealth over generations. Unfortunately, 90% of family wealth is lost by the third generation. They highlight the need to redefine wealth as not merely financial capital but also human and intellectual capital. By shifting focus from simple inheritance to stewardship, families can instill a seventh-generation mentality that emphasizes passing on values and education. They stress the importance of ongoing conversations about wealth within families, using meetings to align values, enhance communication, and ensure the preservation of family wealth beyond mere financial inheritance.