Insights, Advice, and Conversations to Shape Your Financial Future
DISCUSS WITH RUSS
“Discuss With Russ” is your go-to resource for navigating the complex world of personal finance. Whether you’re looking to manage risk, seize new opportunities, or avoid common financial pitfalls, our blog offers insights to help you succeed at every stage of your financial journey.
We’re here to provide actionable strategies and thoughtful guidance to help you take control of your financial future.
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Making Sure Your Power of Attorney Works When It Matters
Many families learn too late that their power of attorney is outdated, hard to locate, or never shared with the people who need it. This video explains how that delay can complicate simple financial tasks during emergencies. Watch to understand how this simple tool supports your family and reduces stress during uncertain moments.
Caring for a Loved One? Here’s How to Ease the Financial and Emotional Burden of Caregiving
Caring for a parent or relative changes your life financially and emotionally. This article explores the real costs of caregiving, tools like tax breaks and workplace benefits, and ways to protect both what matters: your loved ones and your own well-being.
Roth IRA Conversions: Why Timing Matters
Timing can have a major impact on your long-term financial outcomes, especially when it comes to Roth IRA conversions. In this episode, Russell Rivera explains why acting too early or too late could affect how much you pay in taxes over time. The video explores how to think strategically about timing.
OBBBA Brings Big Changes to 529 Plans and New Opportunities for Families
The OBBBA’s 2025 updates to 529 plans expand how families can use education savings, from higher education to K–12 learning and career training, with more flexibility and increased withdrawal limits.
How to Make Holiday Giving a Meaningful Family Tradition
Want to make holiday traditions more meaningful? Discover how charitable giving can unite your family, reflect your values, and create lasting impact beyond the season.
Winter Wellness Strategies to Boost Energy, Mood, and Resilience
When winter routines slip, so can your energy, focus, and well-being. Learn how to combat seasonal sluggishness with simple habits that support your health and mindset—without needing a complete lifestyle overhaul.
Year-End Financial Prep Starts Earlier Than You Think
Many year-end financial moves must be completed by December 31, not in March when taxes are due. This short video breaks down the key steps that can impact your 2025 planning and beyond. If you want to stay ahead and avoid last-minute pressure, it’s worth reviewing this now.
2025 Estate Planning Checklist: Key Documents to Review Now
Estate planning isn’t set-it-and-forget-it. With new tax laws and life changes, now’s the time to review your estate documents to keep your legacy aligned with your goals.
Medicare Open Enrollment: What to Know Before You Choose
Medicare open enrollment is your annual opportunity to reassess your healthcare coverage. Learn what you can change, what to evaluate, and how to avoid higher costs or gaps in coverage before the window closes.
From Piggy Banks to Philanthropy: Raising Charitable-Minded Kids
Teaching children the value of giving doesn't require large donations. It starts with small, consistent actions. This article offers practical strategies for raising charitable kids through empathy, family involvement, and hands-on giving opportunities that grow with them.
The Truth Behind America’s 24 Million Millionaires
Recently on X, I saw a post expressing surprise that there are 24 million millionaires in the United States. I can’t confirm the veracity of that number, but it likely checks out—and I think there are actually many more. In fact, YOU are likely one of them.
Breaking the Debt Cycle with Cash-Based Budgeting
Ever feel like your money disappears faster than you can track it? In this video, Russell Rivera explores how using a cash-based budgeting system can help create stronger spending awareness.
8 Key Tax Deductions from the OBBBA That Could Lower Your Tax Bill
Tax season will look different for 2025 thanks to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Learn how new and expanded deductions could affect your tax liability and financial planning for years to come.
Real Talk on Blended Family Finances
Blended families often face hidden financial tension that traditional families might not. Different upbringings, spending habits, and priorities can lead to friction unless they’re addressed head-on. In this episode of Sidewalk Talk, Russell Riveria walks through why communication is key and where to start.
Maximize Your Employee Benefits During Open Enrollment
Salary gets all the attention, but your benefits package may hold just as much value. With open enrollment around the corner, now’s the time to look closely at your health plan, retirement savings, and insurance options.
How to Safeguard Your Identity in a Digital World
With identity theft cases on the rise, knowing how to protect your information is more important than ever. This article walks through what to watch for, when to take action, and how to build stronger defenses.
Why College Savings Plans Shouldn’t Be One-Size-Fits-All
Balancing college savings with other financial priorities can be tricky, especially if you're also approaching retirement. This episode of Sidewalk Talk explores two real-world cases where college funding plans had to adapt. From over-saving concerns to rethinking investment strategy, it’s all about aligning goals. Watch to see how personalized planning makes a difference.
7 Simple Strategies to Protect Your Financial Data Online
Managing your money online is convenient, but it comes with growing cybersecurity risks. Scammers are getting smarter, and attacks often start with human error, not high-level hacking. Here's how to reduce your risk with practical, proactive steps.
Is Your Portfolio Scattered? 4 Reasons to Consolidate Your Investment Accounts
A patchwork portfolio may not hurt you now, but over time, it can quietly erode returns and complicate planning. This guide explains the benefits of consolidating your investments where appropriate, how to get started, and why it’s worth reviewing your full financial picture.
Life After Divorce: Protecting Your Assets in a New Relationship
Rebuilding your life after divorce isn’t just emotional—it’s financial. In this video, Russell Rivera shares how a client took careful steps to protect her assets when entering a new relationship. With children and a settlement at stake, the right financial planning made all the difference.