Through The Pines

Hosted by Through The Pines

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100

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Aug 2026

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About the show

A financial planning podcast exploring wealth management, retirement planning, tax implications, and general money management. Recorded from inside a camp trailer, we navigate the world of money with a laid-back vibe.

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60 recent

September 9, 202640 min

Ep. 104 - Financial Goal Setting in 2026 | Through The Pines Ep. 104

On this episode of Through The Pines we'll chat financial GOAL SETTING & LIFE PLANNING in 2026 from headwinds & pitfalls to clear values-aligned goals to motivate you! Welcome to a Financial Planning Podcast with a down to earth vibe Sasquatch listens while editing his daily vlog (he never publishes), this is Through the Pines. Our Advisors for this episode, we welcome back Brandyn Smith from planwithbaxter.com 2023, 2024, 2025 & 2026 Forbes Best in State Wealth Management Teams For Utah - Advisor Hub Fastest Growing Advisors to Watch under 1 Billion - Receivers of the Ameriprise Client Experience Award - Financial Advisors: Baxter, Smith & Associates Contact: rex.m.baxter@ampf.com Website: planwithbaxter.com OUTLINE: Why Goal Setting Feels Hard in 2026 Current headwinds: Rising costs, interest rate volatility, AI-driven job changes, housing affordability, and longer lifespans (planning for 30+ years in retirement). The consequence of weak goals: " drifting" — saving without purpose, lifestyle creep, or burnout from chasing someone else's version of success. Planner perspective: The #1 regret they hear from clients and the biggest mindset shift needed right now. • • Good news: When goals are clear and values-aligned, planning becomes much easier and more motivating. If you found value in this podcast, consider supporting us at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/banyanmedia WATCH & SUBSCRIBE to us on YouTube @throughthepines LIKE our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pinespodcast Follow our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pines_podcast / Through the Pines - Reminding you to use Yesterday's Dollars to Finance Tomorrow's Dreams. **** This episode includes financial advice from professionals. Visit the financial planners in this podcast at www.planwithbaxter.com The Banyan Collective & Host, R. Brandon Long are not the financial professionals - podcast pro's, maybe - money men, not so much. Through the Pines Podcast Copyright, The Banyan Collective - 2026

August 19, 202648 min

Ep. 103 - Summer 2026 Financial Trends and Retirement Strategies

On this episode of Through The Pines we'll chat Hot Financial Planning Topics for Summer 2026, From AI, to Energy Inflation, Fed policy, economy resilience, market outlook, and more! Welcome to a Financial Planning Podcast with a down to earth vibe Sasquatch listens while sneaking into World Cup stadiums to catch the match magic, this is Through the Pines. Our Advisors for this episode, we welcome back Rex Baxter and Brandyn Smith from planwithbaxter.com 2023, 2024, 2025 & 2026 Forbes Best in State Wealth Management Teams For Utah - Advisor Hub Fastest Growing Advisors to Watch under 1 Billion - Receivers of the Ameriprise Client Experience Award - Financial Advisors: Baxter, Smith & Associates Contact: rex.m.baxter@ampf.com Website: planwithbaxter.com OUTLINE: Taxes in retirement are not passive—they are one of the largest controllable risks, and most people don't realize it until it's too late. Good planning reduces taxes; bad planning just defers them. ____________________________________ ***Find value in this podcast, consider supporting us here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/banyanmedia WATCH & SUBSCRIBE to us on YouTube @throughthepines LIKE our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pinespodcast Follow our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pines_podcast / Through the Pines - Reminding you to use Yesterday's Dollars to Finance Tomorrow's Dreams. **** This episode includes financial advice from professionals. Visit the financial planners in this podcast at www.planwithbaxter.com The Banyan Collective & Host, R. Brandon Long are not the financial professionals - podcast pro's, maybe - money men, not so much. Through the Pines Podcast Copyright, The Banyan Collective - 2026 #podcast #money #wealth #retirement #financialplanning #finances #networth

August 5, 202658 min

Ep. 102 - Reality of the Retirement Tax Trap

Avoid the retirement tax trap with expert financial planning strategies. Learn how to manage your taxes without complex schemes. On this episode of Through The Pines we'll "The Reality of the Retirement Tax Trap — and How to Navigate It Without Being Sold Something at a Fancy Dinner" Welcome to a Financial Planning Podcast with a down to earth vibe Sasquatch listens while working on his tan at the neighborhood pool, this is Through the Pines. Our Advisors for this episode, we welcome back Rex Baxter and Brandyn Smith from planwithbaxter.com 2023, 2024, 2025 & 2026 Forbes Best in State Wealth Management Teams For Utah - Advisor Hub Fastest Growing Advisors to Watch under 1 Billion - Receivers of the Ameriprise Client Experience Award - Financial Advisors: Baxter, Smith & Associates Contact: rex.m.baxter@ampf.com Website: planwithbaxter.com Rex Baxter and Brandon Smith from planwithbaxter.com join the Financial Planning Podcast to break down the realities of retirement tax planning. Many investors fall into unnecessary traps because they overcomplicate their strategy. This conversation focuses on simplifying your approach to financial planning while ensuring your assets are protected for the long term. We discuss the specific components of a retirement tax trap and how to navigate these common financial hurdles. By focusing on practical steps rather than complex jargon, you will gain a clearer understanding of how to structure your retirement income. This episode provides actionable insights for anyone looking to secure their financial future through smarter tax management. Subscribe for weekly financial planning breakdowns and comment below on which retirement topic you want us to cover next. ***Find value in this podcast, consider supporting us here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/banyanmedia WATCH & SUBSCRIBE to us on YouTube @throughthepines LIKE our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pinespodcast Follow our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pines_podcast/ Through the Pines - Reminding you to use Yesterday's Dollars to Finance Tomorrow's Dreams. **** This episode includes financial advice from professionals. Visit the financial planners in this podcast at www.planwithbaxter.com The Banyan Collective & Host, R. Brandon Long are not the financial professionals - podcast pro's, maybe - money men, not so much. Through the Pines Podcast Copyright, The Banyan Collective - 2026

July 9, 202641 min

Ep. 101 - Money Mastery in the Gig Economy

On this episode of Through The Pines we'll over money mastery in a gig economy including core challenges of a non-W2 worker, budgeting & cash flow for irregular income, taxes, self funded benefits like insurance, and more! Welcome to a Financial Planning Podcast with a down to earth vibe Sasquatch listens while editing his daily vlog (he never publishes), this is Through the Pines. Our Advisors for this episode, we welcome back Rex Baxter and Brandyn Smith from planwithbaxter.com 2023, 2024, 2025 & 2026 Forbes Best in State Wealth Management Teams For Utah - Advisor Hub Fastest Growing Advisors to Watch under 1 Billion - Receivers of the Ameriprise Client Experience Award - Financial Advisors: Baxter, Smith & Associates Contact: rex.m.baxter@ampf.com Website: planwithbaxter.com OUTLINE: Core Challenges of non-W2 Money Management Irregular Income Realities No built-in safety nets: Lack of employer withholding for taxes, no auto-retirement contributions, self-funded health & disability Hidden Costs: Self employment tax Stress from volatility, trouble qualifying for loans/mortgages Budgeting & Cash Flow for Irregular Income Calculate baseline average over last 6 months and create a budget Pay yourself first - auto-transfers Allocate dollars for taxes, operating expenses, owner compensation, and emergency fund Use Tools & a financial advisor Taxes Quarterly estimated taxes: tracking, calculating & penalties Self employment tax breakdown: 15.3% / deductions Maximize deductions: mileage, equipment, health insurance premiums, Record keeping essentials: MileIQ or Expensify, saving receipts, may need an EIN Work with a CPA & a Financial Advisor Self Funded Benefits Health Insurance options Disability Insurance Umbrella Insurance, business insurance, life insurance Retirement: IRA options (Trad, Roth, SEP), Solo 401(k), SIMPLE IRA ____________________________________ This podcast was produced by The Banyan Collective and recorded in our camp trailer studio located inside the Monarch Building inside the 9 Rails Arts District on Historic 25th Street in Ogden, Utah. ***Find value in this podcast, consider supporting us here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/banyanmedia WATCH & SUBSCRIBE to us on YouTube @throughthepines LIKE our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pinespodcast Follow our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pines_podcast / Through the Pines - Reminding you to use Yesterday's Dollars to Finance Tomorrow's Dreams. **** This episode includes financial advice from professionals. Visit the financial planners in this podcast at www.planwithbaxter.com The Banyan Collective & Host, R. Brandon Long are not the financial professionals - podcast pro's, maybe - money men, not so much. Through the Pines Podcast Copyright, The Banyan Collective - 2026

May 6, 20261 hr 2 min

Ep. 100 - 100 Episodes of Through the Pines - The Full Story & What We've Learned

On this episode of Through The Pines we're covering what we've learned along with our favorite moments as we celebrate our 100th episodes of Through The Pines!! Welcome to a Financial Planning Podcast with a down to earth vibe Sasquatch listens while enjoying his first latte of the day, this is Through the Pines. Our Advisors for this episode, we welcome back Rex Baxter and Brandyn Smith from planwithbaxter.com 2023, 2024, 2025 & 2026 Forbes Best in State Wealth Management Teams For Utah - Advisor Hub Fastest Growing Advisors to Watch under 1 Billion - Receivers of the Ameriprise Client Experience Award - Financial Advisors: Baxter, Smith & Associates Contact: rex.m.baxter@ampf.com Website: planwithbaxter.com Congratulations on 100 Episodes of Through The Pines! This podcast was produced by The Banyan Collective and recorded in our camp trailer studio located inside the Monarch Building inside the 9 Rails Arts District on Historic 25th Street in Ogden, Utah. ***Find value in this podcast, consider supporting us here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/banyanmedia WATCH & SUBSCRIBE to us on YouTube @throughthepines LIKE our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pinespodcast Follow our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pines_podcast / Through the Pines - Reminding you to use Yesterday's Dollars to Finance Tomorrow's Dreams. **** This episode includes financial advice from professionals. Visit the financial planners in this podcast at www.planwithbaxter.com The Banyan Collective & Host, R. Brandon Long are not the financial professionals - podcast pro's, maybe - money men, not so much. Through the Pines Podcast Copyright, The Banyan Collective - 2026

April 30, 202648 min

Ep. 99 - Breaking Down the Money Principles That Matter Most

On this episode of Through The Pines we'll cover the Most Important Concepts Investors Live By Welcome to a Financial Planning Podcast with a down to earth vibe Sasquatch listens while performing his morning routine for optimized living, this is Through the Pines. Our Advisors for this episode, we welcome back Rex Baxter and Brandyn Smith from planwithbaxter.com 2023, 2024, 2025 & 2026 Forbes Best in State Wealth Management Teams For Utah - Advisor Hub Fastest Growing Advisors to Watch under 1 Billion - Receivers of the Ameriprise Client Experience Award - Financial Advisors: Baxter, Smith & Associates Contact: rex.m.baxter@ampf.com Website: planwithbaxter.com ____________________________________ This podcast was produced by The Banyan Collective and recorded in our camp trailer studio located inside the Monarch Building inside the 9 Rails Arts District on Historic 25th Street in Ogden, Utah. ***Find value in this podcast, consider supporting us here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/banyanmedia WATCH & SUBSCRIBE to us on YouTube @throughthepines LIKE our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pinespodcast Follow our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pines_podcast / Through the Pines - Reminding you to use Yesterday's Dollars to Finance Tomorrow's Dreams. **** This episode includes financial advice from professionals. Visit the financial planners in this podcast at www.planwithbaxter.com The Banyan Collective & Host, R. Brandon Long are not the financial professionals - podcast pro's, maybe - money men, not so much. Through the Pines Podcast Copyright, The Banyan Collective - 2026

April 22, 202659 min

Pines Ep. 98 - Money Talks BEFORE Marriage

On this episode of Through The Pines we'll cover why & how to have the talk, the money talk with your partner before marriage Welcome to a Financial Planning Podcast with a down to earth vibe Sasquatch listens while washing his air cooled Porsche 911, this is Through the Pines. Our Advisors for this episode, we welcome back Rex Baxter and Brandyn Smith from planwithbaxter.com 2023, 2024, 2025 & 2026 Forbes Best in State Wealth Management Teams For Utah - Advisor Hub Fastest Growing Advisors to Watch under 1 Billion - Receivers of the Ameriprise Client Experience Award - Financial Advisors: Baxter, Smith & Associates Contact: rex.m.baxter@ampf.com Website: planwithbaxter.com Money Mindset & Values Current Financial Snapshot Combining Finances (or not) Protecting Each Other: Insurance Safety Nets Short, Mid, & Long Term Financial Goals Investing Style & Philosophy Past Financial Baggage Estate Planning & Legacy Day-to-Day Financial Management Prenups ____________________________________ This podcast was produced by The Banyan Collective and recorded in our camp trailer studio located inside the Monarch Building inside the 9 Rails Arts District on Historic 25th Street in Ogden, Utah. ***Find value in this podcast, consider supporting us here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/banyanmedia WATCH & SUBSCRIBE to us on YouTube @throughthepines LIKE our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pinespodcast Follow our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pines_podcast / Through the Pines - Reminding you to use Yesterday's Dollars to Finance Tomorrow's Dreams. **** This episode includes financial advice from professionals. Visit the financial planners in this podcast at www.planwithbaxter.com The Banyan Collective & Host, R. Brandon Long are not the financial professionals - podcast pro's, maybe - money men, not so much. Through the Pines Podcast Copyright, The Banyan Collective - 2026

March 11, 20263 min

Ep. 97 - 5 Ways to Build & Destroy Wealth (in 2026!)

On this episode of Through The Pines we'll cover 5 ways to Build Wealth and 5 ways to Destroy Wealth in 2026… Build: Live Below Your Means Build an Emergency Fund Eliminate High-Interest Debt Aggressively Invest Consistently Increase Earning Power Destroy: Lifestyle Inflation High-Interest Consumer Debt Trying to Time the Market / Chasing "HOT" Investments High-Cost Borrowing Ignoring or Under-Utilizing Tax-Advantaged Accounts & Employee Matches Welcome to a Financial Planning Podcast with a down to earth vibe Sasquatch listens while tanning in February, this is Through the Pines. Our Advisors for this episode, we welcome back Rex Baxter and Brandyn Smith from planwithbaxter.com 2023, 2024 & 2025 Forbes Best in State Wealth Management Teams For Utah - Advisor Hub Fastest Growing Advisors to Watch under 1 Billion - Receivers of the Ameriprise Client Experience Award - Financial Advisors: Baxter, Smith & Associates Contact: rex.m.baxter@ampf.com Website: planwithbaxter.com This podcast was produced by The Banyan Collective and recorded in our camp trailer studio located inside the Monarch Building inside the 9 Rails Arts District on Historic 25th Street in Ogden, Utah. ***Find value in this podcast, consider supporting us here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/banyanmedia WATCH & SUBSCRIBE to us on YouTube @throughthepines LIKE our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pinespodcast Follow our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pines_podcast / Through the Pines - Reminding you to use Yesterday's Dollars to Finance Tomorrow's Dreams. **** This episode includes financial advice from professionals. Visit the financial planners in this podcast at www.planwithbaxter.com The Banyan Collective & Host, R. Brandon Long are not the financial professionals - podcast pro's, maybe - money men, not so much. Through the Pines Podcast Copyright, The Banyan Collective - 2026

March 5, 202651 min

Ep. 96 - Money Fads & Bubbles vs. Fundamentals

On this episode of Through The Pines we'll cover the differences and the pros and cons between Fads, Bubbles, Speculation and The Stock Market Welcome to a Financial Planning Podcast with a down to earth vibe Sasquatch listens while retiling his kitchen, this is Through the Pines. Our Advisors for this episode, we welcome back Rex Baxter and Brandyn Smith from planwithbaxter.com 2023, 2024 & 2025 Forbes Best in State Wealth Management Teams For Utah - Advisor Hub Fastest Growing Advisors to Watch under 1 Billion - Receivers of the Ameriprise Client Experience Award - Financial Advisors: Baxter, Smith & Associates Contact: rex.m.baxter@ampf.com Website: planwithbaxter.com ____________________________________ This podcast was produced by The Banyan Collective and recorded in our camp trailer studio located inside the Monarch Building inside the 9 Rails Arts District on Historic 25th Street in Ogden, Utah. ***Find value in this podcast, consider supporting us here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/banyanmedia WATCH & SUBSCRIBE to us on YouTube @throughthepines LIKE our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pinespodcast Follow our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pines_podcast / Through the Pines - Reminding you to use Yesterday's Dollars to Finance Tomorrow's Dreams. **** This episode includes financial advice from professionals. Visit the financial planners in this podcast at www.planwithbaxter.com The Banyan Collective & Host, R. Brandon Long are not the financial professionals - podcast pro's, maybe - money men, not so much. Through the Pines Podcast Copyright, The Banyan Collective - 2026 #podcast #money #wealth #retirement #financialplanning #finances #networth

February 18, 202637 min

Ep. 95 - Reasons You NEED a Financial Advisor in 2026 (Before It's Too Late)

Is hiring a financial planner worth it in 2026? 🤔 In this episode of Through the Pines, we break down 7 compelling reasons to work with a financial advisor in today's complex and evolving financial landscape. From navigating changing tax laws and RMD rules to behavioral coaching during volatile markets, we cover why professional guidance can help you maximize returns, reduce stress, and prepare for major life transitions. You'll learn about: ✔️ Tax-efficient strategies like Roth conversions and backdoor Roth IRAs ✔️ The power of fiduciary advice vs. commission-based models ✔️ How advisors help prevent emotional investing mistakes ✔️ Personalized retirement, 529, and business planning strategies ✔️ Preparing for retirement, inheritance, marriage, and other life changes If you're wondering whether AI can replace a financial advisor—or if expert guidance still matters—this episode gives you practical insights to help you decide. Welcome to a Financial Planning Podcast with a down to earth vibe Sasquatch listens while shoveling his driveway, this is Through the Pines. Our Advisors for this episode, we welcome back Rex Baxter and Brandyn Smith from planwithbaxter.com 2023, 2024 & 2025 Forbes Best in State Wealth Management Teams For Utah - Advisor Hub Fastest Growing Advisors to Watch under 1 Billion - Receivers of the Ameriprise Client Experience Award - Financial Advisors: Baxter, Smith & Associates Contact: rex.m.baxter@ampf.com Website: planwithbaxter.com 🔔 Subscribe for more financial planning, retirement strategy, and wealth-building conversations. ————————————————————— This podcast was produced by The Banyan Collective and recorded in our camp trailer studio located inside the Monarch Building inside the 9 Rails Arts District on Historic 25th Street in Ogden, Utah. ***Find value in this podcast, consider supporting us here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/banyanmedia WATCH & SUBSCRIBE to us on YouTube @throughthepines Through the Pines - Reminding you to use Yesterday's Dollars to Finance Tomorrow's Dreams. **** This episode includes financial advice from professionals. Visit the financial planners in this podcast at www.planwithbaxter.com The Banyan Collective & Host, R. Brandon Long are not the financial professionals - podcast pro's, maybe - money men, not so much. Through the Pines Podcast Copyright, The Banyan Collective - 2026 #podcast #money #wealth #retirement #financialplanning #finances #networth