Understanding your financial goals isn't just about numbers. It's about digging into what really matters to you. This episode features special guest Mishy Harman, host of the popular Israel Story podcast, who shares how powerful storytelling can spark better conversations about money. Whether you're chatting with your spouse, your advisor, or just thinking things through on your own, learning to pause, listen, and reflect can completely change how you handle your finances. Get ready for a fun an...
Jul 10, 2025•27 min
Buying Real Estate in Israel Without Losing Your Mind (or Your Money) Buying a home in Israel isn’t just about bricks and mortar. For many people, it’s tied to big dreams like starting fresh in a new country or creating a stronger connection to the land of Israel. But navigating the Israeli real estate market? That part can be overwhelming. Doug Goldstein teams up with Debbie Goldfischer, Founder and CEO of Buyitinisrael.com and host of the popular podcast On The House , to break it all down. Sh...
Jul 03, 2025•19 min
Wills that don’t work. Trusts that get tangled. Heirs scrambling to figure out who gets what—and when. If you’ve got U.S. investments but live in Israel, your estate plan might be headed for a legal mess without even realizing it. This episode unpacks the real-world problems that come up when your legal documents aren’t built for cross-border life—and how you can avoid costly, confusing mistakes by getting your financial and legal teams to actually talk to each other. You’ll learn how to set up ...
Jun 26, 2025•10 min
Feeling financially stuck between two countries? If your accounts are split between the U.S. and Israel, even simple money decisions, like when to convert currency or which account to use, can start to feel risky. It’s not about being bad with money. It’s about not having a system that fits your life. This episode explores the hidden stress that comes from managing cross-border finances and offers practical ways to reduce the pressure. Learn how to create clarity around your income and expenses,...
Jun 19, 2025•13 min
Are You Betting Your Future on “If”? If you’re living in Israel and managing U.S. brokerage or IRA accounts, here’s a tough question: are you confident in your investment plan or just crossing your fingers and hoping the market doesn’t drop? Managing money across two countries isn’t just about tax forms and exchange rates (though yes, there’s plenty of that). It’s about making sure your plan can actually handle the curveballs life and the market throw your way. Too often, investors assume they’r...
Jun 11, 2025•15 min
Tax rules shouldn't hold you back from building a life abroad, but for many Americans living overseas, that's exactly what happens. Marylouise Serrato of American Citizens Abroad (ACA) unpacks the real struggles expats face, from filing U.S. tax returns while living abroad to dealing with confusing rules around foreign investments. Sound overwhelming? Well change might finally be on the way. From the fight to end worldwide taxation to surprising pitfalls like PFICs and foreign pension plans, thi...
Jun 05, 2025•17 min
Need cash fast in retirement? Don't get stuck selling stocks at the worst time or scrambling with currency conversions. If your money’s locked away in long-term accounts, it might look good on paper—but won’t help much when life throws you a curveball. This episode dives into the surprisingly overlooked topic of liquidity—what it is, why it matters, and how to make sure your money is actually there when you need it. Whether you're living in Israel, spending in shekels, or managing U.S. accounts ...
May 29, 2025•16 min
There’s over $15 trillion sitting in IRA accounts in the U.S.—are you making the most of yours? If you’re living in Israel and still have retirement savings in the States, understanding how IRAs work could mean the difference between a secure future and missed opportunities. This episode makes sense of the rules (without the jargon), shows you how to avoid unnecessary taxes and penalties, and gives you the tools to take full control of your financial future—right from your laptop in Tel Aviv, Je...
May 21, 2025•14 min
Why Saving Money Feels Hard (And How to Make It Easy) Ever check your bank balance and think, Wait—where did all my money go?! One minute, payday hits, and the next, your hard-earned cash has vanished—eaten up by bills, surprise expenses, and everyday spending. It’s like your money is playing hide and seek… and winning. But here’s the good news: saving money doesn’t have to feel impossible. You don’t need to overhaul your lifestyle, live on instant noodles, or give up everything fun. A few smart...
May 15, 2025•19 min
Aliya is an adventure, and your finances should be ready for the ride! But too many new olim arrive in Israel only to find their U.S. brokerage and IRA accounts limited or even shut down. The key is preparation—making sure your money stays accessible, your investments remain on track, and your financial future is secure. Learn what steps you need to take before and after the move, how to keep your accounts running smoothly, and why working with a cross-border financial expert can make all the di...
May 08, 2025•14 min
Talking about money with your spouse can feel about as fun as a trip to the dentist—but what if it didn’t have to be that way? Financial intimacy isn’t just about budgets and spreadsheets; it’s about strengthening your relationship by building trust, aligning your goals, and working together as a team. Learn how to set up “financial date nights,” avoid money fights, and align your finances with what really matters to both of you. This episode is packed with practical, easy-to-use tips to make ma...
Apr 10, 2025•18 min
Thinking about buying property in Israel? Brace yourself—getting a mortgage here isn’t like walking into your local U.S. bank. Israeli lenders care more about cash flow than net worth, appraisals often come in lower than expected, and pulling equity out later in the form of a HELOC (Home Equity Line Of Credit) might cost you more than you think. The good news? With the right strategy—like getting pre-approved and structuring your assets smartly—you can avoid costly mistakes and secure the best f...
Apr 03, 2025•23 min
Ready to take your investment game to the next level? Discover the secret weapon of smart investors: economic moats! These unique business advantages can help companies crush their competition and keep their profits strong—no matter the market conditions. Whether you're managing U.S. investments from abroad or just looking to build a portfolio you can feel confident about, this episode has the insights you need to spot the winners and dodge the duds. Key Takeaways: Learn what makes an economic m...
Mar 27, 2025•15 min
Think you can outsmart the stock market? Think again! Investors who chase market highs and lows often lose out on long-term gains. This episode reveals why emotional decisions and frequent trading are draining your wealth, and how a simple, steady approach can help you build a strong, diversified portfolio. You’ll learn why staying invested matters, how compounding grows your wealth over time, and the hidden trading costs that can quietly sabotage your success. Stop second-guessing yourself ever...
Mar 20, 2025•16 min
Opportunities to build significant wealth don’t knock every day. The key is being prepared when they do. These rare, game-changing events—often called "tail events"—can transform your financial future if you position yourself correctly. This episode unpacks how to spot these opportunities, why diversification is essential to mitigate risk, and how patience and automation can keep you consistent and resilient when markets get rough. Learn how successful investors prepare for the unexpected and di...
Mar 06, 2025•17 min
Did you know your U.S. IRA could still provide major tax advantages even after making Aliya? In this episode, special guest Yaacov Jacob, an expert accountant with extensive experience helping cross-border clients, joins the show to reveal essential strategies for Americans living in Israel. Together, we unpack the differences between traditional and Roth IRAs, explore how Israeli and U.S. tax systems interact, and discuss how to avoid costly pitfalls like double taxation. Whether you've been in...
Feb 27, 2025•24 min
Are your investments suffering from information overload? If financial headlines make you feel like you’re riding a rollercoaster blindfolded, you’re not alone. This episode dives into the sneaky biases that derail your decisions—like recency bias and emotional investing—and shows you how to fight back. From crafting a solid investment plan to tuning out the noise, you’ll learn how to cut through confusion and stay laser-focused on your goals. Ready to stop reacting and start thriving with your ...
Feb 20, 2025•17 min
Unlock the secrets to growing your wealth while living abroad! Managing U.S. investments from Israel comes with unique challenges, but with the right strategies, you can maximize your portfolio, cut down on taxes, and even help others in a tax-smart way. In this episode, we dive into powerful ways to take control of your finances, reduce risk with smart diversification, and turn your investment wins into impactful charitable contributions. Discover how to make your money work harder for you—whet...
Feb 06, 2025•9 min
Discover how to evaluate your portfolio like a pro, keep your investments balanced, and focus on strategies that truly build wealth. Are your investments calling the shots in your life? Too often, people fall head over heels for a single stock, forgetting the golden rules of smart investing. This episode dives into how emotional attachment can derail your financial plans and why it’s so important to take a step back and see the big picture. Get ready to take control and invest with confidence! K...
Jan 30, 2025•12 min
Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) don’t have to be a headache! Think of it like this: it’s your money graduating from retirement savings school and finally heading out into the world. In this episode, we break down what RMDs really mean for your IRA, how to dodge those nasty penalties, and how to use these withdrawals to your advantage. Whether you’re managing your own account or handling an inherited IRA, we’ve got you covered with the need-to-know info to keep Uncle Sam happy and your fina...
Jan 23, 2025•10 min
Ready to stop sweating every market wobble and start investing like a pro? This episode on asset allocation has the answers you’ve been Googling at 2 a.m. Discover how to build a portfolio that’s as calm under pressure as your favorite Zen master, learn why diversification is the financial equivalent of not putting all your eggs in one basket (because who wants scrambled retirement plans?), and find out how a little liquidity can be your secret weapon when life throws a curveball. Whether you’re...
Jan 16, 2025•13 min
Retirement planning doesn’t have to feel like a chore! It can be the key to unlocking your dream lifestyle in the golden years. Dive into the secrets of crafting a retirement strategy that’s not just secure but exciting. From transitioning from saving to spending to creating a steady mix of income streams, learn how to turn your retirement dreams into reality. Whether you’re just getting started or already in the thick of planning, this episode is packed with insights to help you stay ahead. Tak...
Jan 09, 2025•11 min
Let’s face it—scammers are getting sneakier, and your hard-earned money is their ultimate prize. Don’t let them win! Marketing guru Jay Schwedelson shares eye-opening insights into the clever tactics scammers use to grab your attention and trick you into risky decisions. Learn how to recognize these schemes and take control before they can do any damage. You’ll discover simple, no-nonsense strategies to keep your investments safe and your email inbox squeaky clean. This episode is packed with st...
Dec 19, 2024•22 min
Are you ready to take control of your cross-border finances like a pro? In this episode, we tackle the challenges expats face with managing investments, handling multiple currencies, and staying ahead of regulatory headaches. Say goodbye to confusion and hello to clarity with tips to protect your wealth and make your money work for you. Whether you're balancing dollars and shekels or safeguarding your accounts, this episode gives you the know-how to dominate your financial game. Key Takeaways: D...
Dec 12, 2024•17 min
Think T.O.D. Accounts Are Simple? Think Again! T.O.D. accounts might sound like the shortcut to estate planning bliss, but for cross-border families, they can lead straight to chaos. Tax traps, legal tangles, and probate drama are just a few of the surprises waiting for unsuspecting heirs. Don’t let a so-called "simple solution" turn into a family nightmare—learn how to sidestep the pitfalls and build an estate plan that actually works across borders. Key Takeaways: T.O.D. accounts can backfire:...
Dec 05, 2024•12 min
Why Even Millionaires Can Feel Cash-Strapped and What to Do About It Rich on paper but broke in reality? It’s called a liquidity trap, and it’s more common than you think! If your wealth is tied up in real estate or illiquid investments, accessing the cash you need can feel like breaking into a locked safe. Learn how to make your money work for you, avoid the headaches of financial inflexibility, and keep your future secure. Plus, we’ll show you how having the right strategy (and the right cross...
Nov 28, 2024•13 min
Thinking about renouncing your U.S. citizenship? It’s a decision that comes packed with complex financial and emotional considerations! Eli Clark, an international lawyer with a focus on cross-border estate planning, joins us to unpack the nuances. From untangling complicated banking woes to understanding the infamous exit tax, there's a lot at stake. We dive deep into what it really means to leave behind your U.S. passport—debunking myths and tackling big questions like, "Will I still get my So...
Nov 21, 2024•26 min
Investing can feel like riding a roller coaster, but the secret to success isn’t in predicting the market—it’s in mastering your emotions. Is your portfolio still working for you, or are fear and excitement driving your decisions? This episode reveals how unchecked emotions can derail even the best financial plans—and what you can do to stay in control. Learn how to align your investments with your true goals, turn losses into opportunities, and create a strategy that works in any market conditi...
Nov 14, 2024•12 min
Struggling to feel in control of your finances? Sometimes, investments can take unexpected turns, especially if you’re dealing with cross-border accounts or unfamiliar tax rules. This episode dives into how to recognize when your portfolio is steering off course, why you should always trust your gut, and the importance of simplifying your strategy. Learn why risky investments, hidden tax consequences, and pushy advisors can lead to financial headaches—and how to take back the reins. It’s time to...
Nov 07, 2024•13 min
Worried about whether your money will last through retirement? You’re not alone, but there’s a powerful tool that could help turn your concerns into confidence: dividend-paying ETFs. These handy investments could pay you regular income—without you having to lift a finger. Imagine setting up a second paycheck just from your portfolio! Whether you're looking for potential stability during market ups and downs or a possible reliable income stream for your golden years, dividend ETFs might be exactl...
Oct 31, 2024•15 min
