Simply Wealth

Estate Planning Essentials

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0400

In Episode 5 of Simply Wealth, Cory Cook is joined by Dan Cox, Dakota Steele, and special guest Rich Seils, an experienced estate planning attorney.

They break down the fundamentals of estate planning in plain English — answering key questions like: Who needs an estate plan? What happens if you become incapacitated? What is probate, and why does it have such a bad reputation?

The conversation covers the four ways assets pass at death (beneficiary designations, joint ownership, probate, and trusts) and walks through the essential documents everyone should have: a will, financial power of attorney, healthcare power of attorney, and living will.

At the 27-minute mark, they transition into a detailed deep dive on trusts — explaining what a revocable trust is, when a trust makes sense (especially with minor children or complex family situations), how to properly fund one, and the pros and cons of using trusts versus relying on a will. They also discuss common pitfalls, including predatory “trust mill” tactics targeting seniors and the importance of coordinating estate planning with your overall financial plan.

Whether you’re just starting to think about estate planning or want to better understand how trusts can protect your loved ones and avoid probate, this episode delivers clear, practical guidance to help you take control of your legacy.

Tune in for straightforward advice that simplifies one of the most important (and often misunderstood) areas of wealth management.

The Financial Advisory Industry - State of the Union

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0500

This time around, Cory and Dan deliver a candid, no-nonsense look at the current state of the financial advisory industry and the challenges clients face when choosing the right partner.

They pull back the curtain on the confusion clients face when choosing an advisor: the critical difference between fiduciary, suitability, and hybrid standards; how compensation models create conflicts of interest; and why product sales (especially annuities and certain mutual funds) often benefit the advisor more than the client.

Cory and Dan share practical questions anyone interviewing advisors should ask—How are you paid? What licenses do you hold? Can I see your Form ADV?—along with red flags to watch for, the value of working with a true fee-only fiduciary, and why a long-term strategic partnership (covering investments, taxes, estate planning, insurance, and legacy goals) matters far more than a one-size-fits-all product pitch.

Whether you’re interviewing advisors, reevaluating your current relationship, or simply want to understand the industry better, this episode equips you with the knowledge and confidence to choose a partner who truly puts your best interest first.

Tune in for an honest conversation about trust, transparency, and what real fiduciary advice looks like in today’s world.

Find your next fiduciary at Cox and Cook Wealth Advisors!
https://plans2retire.com/

https://brokercheck.finra.org/
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/

Roth IRA's & Conversion Strategies for Tax-Free Growth

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0500

This time, Cory and Dan break down the age old question, to Roth or not to Roth. We cover the basics, benefits, contribution limits, conversion strategies, tax advantages, and how they fit into your overall retirement planning. Whether you're considering opening a Roth, converting a traditional IRA, or optimizing for tax-free growth, we simplify the details with practical insights to help you make informed decisions for long-term wealth building.

Marriage and Finance

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 13:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Simply Wealth, we tackle the intersection of marriage and money with honesty, humor, and real-world insights. Drawing from our own personal experiences—as newlyweds, long-term partners, and financial advisors—we explore how couples can build a strong financial foundation together.

Emotional Investing

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0500

We kick off our first ever podcast with a topic that is brought up often - emotional investing. In other words, how to manage your emotions when investing for the future. Follow along as your host, Cory Cook goes through a few scenarios and what to avoid.