July 12, 2025

Three weeks ago, we dug into the details of what pet ownership can cost over the lifetime of a pet; however, those totals didn’t include what fines you might get if your pet decides to run wild! We look at some cases of animals on the loose in Atlanta, including pet baboons, buffaloes, and pythons.

According to the 2025 Retirement Confidence Survey, 67% of American workers feel confident in their ability to have enough money to live comfortably throughout their retirement, but that confidence is shadowed by deep concerns over potential cuts to Social Security and Medicare. We also explore shifting retirement timelines, rising health care costs, and growing demand for emergency savings solutions within retirement plans.

K.C. shares the ins and outs of planning retirement with a pension—and the risks that often go overlooked, such as the lack of inflation protection to reduced survivor benefits and long-term funding concerns.  We will also discuss why some employers are shifting toward hybrid models that include a 401(k) component to help fill the gaps.

After the break, we unpack the jaw-dropping strategy known as “Buy, Borrow, Die”—a legal tax loophole the ultra-wealthy use to build massive fortunes, fund lavish lifestyles, and pass on wealth to heirs nearly tax-free. It’s a masterclass in how America’s richest sidestep income and estate taxes, exposing the widening gap between the tax code for the few—and the one for everyone else.

Join hosts Nick Antonucci, CVA, CEPA, Director of Research, and Managing Associates K.C. Smith, CFP®, CEPA, and D.J. Barker, CWS®, and Kelly-Lynne Scalice, a seasoned communicator and host, on Henssler Money Talks as they explore key financial strategies to help investors navigate market uncertainty.

Timestamps and Chapters

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization’s initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.
This article is for demonstrative and academic purposes and is meant to provide valuable background information on particular investments, NOT a recommendation to buy. The investments referenced within this article may currently be traded by Henssler Financial. All material presented is compiled from sources believed to be reliable and current, but accuracy cannot be guaranteed. The contents are intended for general information purposes only. Information provided should not be the sole basis in making any decisions and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional, such as a tax consultant, insurance adviser or attorney. Although this material is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information with respect to the subject matter, it may not apply in all situations. Readers are urged to consult with their adviser concerning specific situations and questions. This is not to be construed as an offer to buy or sell any financial instruments. It is not our intention to state, indicate or imply in any manner that current or past results are indicative of future profitability or expectations. As with all investments, there are associated inherent risks. Please obtain and review all financial material carefully before investing. Henssler is not licensed to offer or sell insurance products, and this overview is not to be construed as an offer to purchase any insurance products.