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In this episode, host Mike McNamara, Ph.D., sits down with Michael Burns for a candid, wide-ranging conversation about the societal and ethical stakes of Artificial Intelligence. Together, they confront some of the biggest fears surrounding AI’s rapid rise: the threat of widespread job displacement across nearly every industry, the explosion of deep fakes and high-tech fraud, and the quiet erosion of critical thinking as people increasingly rely on personalized information feeds. Callers and guests weigh in with pressing moral questions—chief among them, how future generations will tell truth from fiction in a world where AI can fabricate convincing human likenesses and subtly shape information to fit biased narratives. Yet the episode isn’t all doom and gloom. Mike and Michael also spotlight AI’s extraordinary promise: from breakthrough diagnostic tools to the possibility of curing major diseases like cancer. In the end, the conversation treats AI as a powerful, unstoppable force—one that demands urgent a

Join host Alyssa McNamara Reed and guest Everett Henderson as they discuss the current state of the insurance market, particularly focusing on the dramatic rise in costs during the open enrollment period. The central theme revolves around the soaring premiums for health insurance, with the host citing a shocking 35% increase in her small business plan, reflecting a wider trend of double-digit rate hikes. Henderson attributes these issues largely to the high cost of medical services, low market competition following the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and the mandatory coverage of expensive procedures for an increasingly unhealthy population. Henderson offers his expertise to individuals seeking non-group insurance plans, especially early retirees, noting that monthly premiums can range widely from $500 to $2,000 depending on the coverage chosen. The two contrast these high costs with the significantly lower, income-tiered costs associated with Medicare for those 65 and older. The conversation briefly concludes by

This week, join guest host Patrick Haraden, from Lockton Companies in Boston, and his guest, Andrew Dawson, the Chief People Officer at BVI, as they explore the evolution of the human resources profession. Dawson first shares his unique path from the UK military and recruitment to eventually leading HR teams at major international pharmaceutical and biotech companies. The conversation heavily focuses on how the CPO role and leadership strategies have shifted in the wake of the pandemic, emphasizing the necessity of offering greater empathy and flexibility to accommodate employees' diverse home lives and work constraints. Furthermore, the discussion highlights that effective recruitment and onboarding are paramount for fostering long-term employee commitment, arguing that these processes must be tailored and authentic. Lastly, Dawson addresses the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), asserting that it will automate routine tasks, ultimately allowing HR professionals to focus on higher-level coach

In this episode of McNamara On Money, host Mike McNamara is joined by Bob Melo from a local technical high school to explore an increasingly relevant question: Do all paths to success require a college degree? Together, they dive into the growing opportunities in skilled trades—plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, and more—and discuss why these professions are not just essential but also financially rewarding. The conversation highlights how parents can help their children move toward financial independence, the realities of today’s cost of living, and the rising demand for hands-on expertise. Listeners will learn about vocational education options, cooperative work programs for high school students, and how early trade training can open doors to meaningful, well-paid careers. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or student weighing your options, this episode offers practical insights into building a stable future—no college debt required. Michael J. McNamara, Ph.D., CFP®, is the founder of McNamara Financi

This week, join Alyssa McNamara Reed, CFP® and her guest Peter D. Stoner of AHIP (American Health Insurance Plans) a Certified Medicare Consultant/Licensed Broker (MA & NH) for a discussion about Medicare Pricing and Considerations. The discussion centers on Medicare coverage, including the different Parts A, B, and D, detailing eligibility, costs, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums. A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the complexities and rapidly changing landscape of prescription drug plans (Part D), particularly in light of the Inflation Reduction Act, which has led to higher costs for insurance carriers and fewer plan options for consumers. They also address the current open enrollment period and the challenges consumers face, such as doctors dropping certain insurance plans and the financial implications of high-income brackets on Medicare premiums. Alyssa McNamara Reed is a financial planner with passion for the intersection of taxes and investing.  Alyssa works with motivated sa

Join Justin McNamara, CFP® and Michael J. McNamara, Ph.D., CFP® who discuss recent changes to the United States tax code under a piece of legislation they informally call the "one big beautiful bill." The conversation focuses heavily on year-end tax planning and the permanent establishment of existing tax brackets and the standard deduction, which was scheduled to sunset. They address major temporary changes, such as the increase of the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap to $40,000 and the introduction of a temporary senior bonus deduction for those over 65, and they urge listeners to consult their tax professionals due to the complexity and retroactive nature of the changes. The hosts also touch on other provisions, including expansions to 529 plans and changes to the federal gift and estate tax exemption, while fielding a call from a listener who shares his successful tax planning strategy. Justin McNamara, CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner with passion for investment strategy and selection. He w

This week, David Tourtillot of Mutual of Omaha Reverse Mortgage, featuring guest Dr. Wade Pfau, an esteemed economist and retirement researcher. The discussion focuses extensively on reverse mortgages, exploring their mechanics, benefits, and common misconceptions as a retirement planning tool. Key topics covered include the strategic use of the growing reverse equity line of credit as a buffer asset to manage market volatility, the non-taxable nature of reverse mortgage proceeds, and recent safeguards implemented by the federal government to make the product safer and more advantageous for homeowners aged 62 and older. The segment also addresses caller questions regarding the tax implications of using a reverse mortgage to offset Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and the advantages of a reverse mortgage line of credit over a traditional Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC). David is well known throughout the reverse mortgage industry and is one of only 165 professionals that have achieved the CRMP® design

In this episode, host Alyssa McNamara and guest Lara Shea, the CEO of Rivermead Retirement Community. The discussion centers on the financial and social challenges of aging and long-term care in the United States, particularly for the large baby boomer generation. Key topics explored include the misconceptions about Medicare and Medicaid coverage for long-term care, the increasing difficulty of planning for these costs due to their highly variable nature, and the diminishing viability of long-term care insurance as a solution. The experts also touch on how the growing "sandwich generation" and the increasing cost of living are making it harder for adult children to care for their parents, emphasizing that private pay is becoming the most prevalent option for senior living and care. Alyssa McNamara Reed, CFP®is a financial planner with passion for the intersection of taxes and investing.  Alyssa works with motivated savers, beneficiaries of estates, business owners, divorcees, and pre-retirees. McNamara Fina

Join host Justin McNamara and guest Julie Shields Rutyna from the Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority (MEIFA), discussing the annual topic of paying for college. The conversation covers significant, recent changes to federal financial aid and loan landscapes, including the simplified Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process, new limits on Parent PLUS and Graduate PLUS loans, and the reduction of repayment options to a new standard plan and a simpler repayment assistance plan. Additionally, the discussion addresses strategies for saving for education, highlighting the expanded eligible expenses and flexibility of 529 plans, as well as the benefits of the MEIFA-administered U plan (prepaid tuition plan). Justin McNamara, CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner with passion for investment strategy and selection. He works with small businesses and owners, parents of college-bound kids, job changers, pre- and post-retirees. McNamara Financial is an independent, family-owned, fee-only inve

In this episode, Mike McNamara, Ph.D., CFP® advises parents to proactively guide their high school and middle school children in making career decisions to ensure future financial stability and happiness. McNamara argues that a significant percentage of recent college graduates are underemployed or unemployed, suggesting that college is not the only viable path and may not be worth the cost for many. He emphasizes the importance of researching career aptitude, potential salaries, and the "living wage" before committing to expensive college majors, highlighting high-paying non-college careers like electrician and plumber as successful alternatives. Ultimately, this show is a call for parents and students to engage in serious financial and career planning to avoid future debt and dependency. Michael J. McNamara, Ph.D., CFP®, is the Founder of McNamara Financial and a Certified Financial Planner. He’s semi-retired, and works with legacy clients and select others. To schedule a visit with the team at McNamar

On this episode, Mike McNamara, Ph.D., CFP® discusses the complexities of taking income from investment portfolios during retirement. He focuses on the need for a withdrawal plan to manage expenses, taxes, and market downturns, emphasizing the importance of matching the withdrawal rate to the portfolio’s expected earnings. The discussion features a call from a successful 89-year-old listener, Ed, who shares his positive experience living off his investments for 27 years, which leads to a conversation about creating cash reserves, or “buckets,” to protect against market volatility. Ultimately, the show aims to educate retirees on prudent financial strategies for drawing down their assets. Michael J. McNamara, Ph.D., CFP®, is the Founder of McNamara Financial and a Certified Financial Planner. He’s semi-retired, and works with legacy clients and select others. To schedule a visit with the team at McNamara Financial, be sure to visit: https://mcnamarafinancial.com/contact McNamara Financial is an Independ

In lieu of a regular show, McNamara on Money is taking a pause this week to honor and remember one of our own: Kirk Buchanan Reed—known to many as “Duke” or “K Money.” Kirk was a Certified Financial Planner practitioner at McNamara Financial Services in Marshfield. After a brave and tough three-year battle with cancer, he passed away peacefully on August 29, 2025—his 45th birthday. Kirk spent 20 years with McNamara Financial and was a regular, trusted voice on this program. If you’ve listened to the show, you knew he was sharp, thoughtful, and always ready with a good story or a laugh. And if you knew him personally, you knew he had a huge heart and a serious love for great music. His loss is deeply felt by all of us—his family, friends, clients, and listeners. Kirk was born in Barberton, Ohio, in 1980. After graduating from Villanova University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, he found his true calling as a Financial Advisor with McNamara Financial. He never met a golf course, bowling alley, or IP

On this episode, hosted by Mike McNamara, we focus on personal finance and wealth management. Mike McNamara underscores the importance of living within one's means, which he defines as spending less than one earns and consistently saving at least 10% of income for retirement. He supports this advice with concerning statistics about Americans' financial preparedness, particularly for retirement, highlighting how many individuals rely heavily on Social Security. The program also features listener calls, with one caller seeking advice on tax implications for inherited retirement and bank accounts and the use of a family trust for estate planning, further illustrating practical financial considerations. Michael J. McNamara, Ph.D., CFP®, is the Founder of McNamara Financial and a Certified Financial Planner. He’s semi-retired, and works with legacy clients and select others. To schedule a visit with the team at McNamara Financial, be sure to visit: https://mcnamarafinancial.com/contact McNamara Financial is

In this episode, Alyssa McNamara Reed, CFP® , and attorney Ben Cody of Cody Law Group, discussing essential estate planning concepts. They define estate planning broadly, covering decisions about money, investments, insurance, mortgages, taxes, estate planning, living within one's means, and retirement. The conversation primarily focuses on the distinctions between wills and trusts, the probate process, and their implications for individuals and families. Key topics explored include guardianship for minor children, strategies for estate tax mitigation, and using trusts for asset protection in the context of long-term care, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making in financial and legal matters. Alyssa McNamara Reed, CFP® is a financial planner with passion for the intersection of taxes and investing.  Alyssa works with motivated savers, beneficiaries of estates, business owners, divorcees, and pre-retirees. McNamara Financial is an Independent, family-owned, fee-only investment management and

Hosts Justin McNamera and Eric Sarinin discuss the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation. They explain that a CFP is a generalist financial professional with a broad understanding across six core financial planning modules: financial planning principles, insurance, income tax planning, retirement planning, investments, and estate planning. The hosts emphasize the fiduciary duty of CFPs to always act in clients' best interests and that while the curriculum covers a vast array of topics, real-world application often focuses on specific client needs. They also touch on the rigorous exam and experience requirements to become a CFP, highlighting its value in providing comprehensive financial advice. Justin McNamara, CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner with passion for investment strategy and selection. Works with small businesses and owners, parents of college-bound kids, job changers, pre- and post-retirees. To schedule a visit with the team at McNamara Financial, be sure to visit: https://mcnamarafi

In this episode, guest host Patrick Haraden, from Lockton Companies in Boston, interviews guest Diana Maserati, a senior manager of global benefits and well-being. The discussion focuses on the complexities of managing employee benefits and HR functions for a large, global company. Key topics include the challenges of compliance with diverse state and federal leave laws, the strategic decisions behind offering specific benefits like GLP-1s for weight loss, and cost containment strategies such as centers of excellence and wellness incentives. The conversation also highlights the importance of employee education regarding complex benefit plans like HSAs and the future of benefits like student loan assistance in a competitive market. McNamara Financial is an Independent, family-owned, fee-only investment management and financial planning firm, serving individuals and families on the South Shore and beyond for over 30 years. COME SEE WHAT IT'S LIKE TO WORK WITH A FIDUCIARY. http://mcnamarafinancial.com/

In this episode, Mike McNamara, Ph.D., CFP®, offers an in-depth discussion on several financial topics. He defines what constitutes a true investment, contrasting it with speculative assets and illustrating his point with examples like farms and businesses. He then examines the current state of the US housing market, highlighting the affordability crisis stemming from increased prices, high mortgage rates, and limited inventory due to existing low-rate mortgages. Finally, the discussion shifts to retirement planning, addressing concerns about inflation, insufficient savings, and the significant costs of out-of-pocket healthcare and long-term care, while also cautioning against the complexities of relocating in retirement. Michael J. McNamara, Ph.D., CFP®, is the Founder of McNamara Financial and a Certified Financial Planner. He’s semi-retired, and works with legacy clients and select others. To schedule a visit with the team at McNamara Financial, be sure to visit: https://mcnamarafinancial.com/contact

This episode features financial advisor Justin McNamara and insurance specialist Guy Ziriak discussing the critical role of **income protection through insurance**. They **explore the differences between short-term and long-term disability insurance**, including how they are typically offered (employer-based vs. individual policies), their coverage periods, and the impact of premium payment on taxability. The discussion also **examines factors influencing the cost and complexity of disability policies**, such as occupation, elimination periods, and various riders. Finally, they **briefly touch upon life insurance** as another form of income protection, highlighting its general purpose and common coverage recommendations. Justin McNamara, CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner with passion for investment strategy and selection. Works with small businesses and owners, parents of college-bound kids, job changers, pre- and post-retirees. To schedule a visit with the team at McNamara Financial, be sure to visit:

Episode Title: Planning for Aging and Long-Term Care with Lara Shea Description: Alyssa McNamara is joined by Lara Shea, CEO of RiverMead Retirement Community and adjunct professor at Franklin Pierce University, for a deep dive into the complex realities of aging, long-term care, and healthcare planning. They discuss the misconceptions around Medicare and Medicaid, the rising costs of care, the declining availability of nursing home beds, and why families must prepare for the financial and emotional impact of aging. With insights from decades of experience, this episode offers essential guidance for anyone navigating or planning for later-life care. https://mcnamarafinancial.com/

College, Careers, & Common Sense This week on McNamara On Money, host Mike McNamara, Ph.D., CFP®, dives into a candid conversation about college, career planning, and making smart financial choices in an increasingly challenging world. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or a grandparent, this episode is full of practical wisdom—and a reality check—about the cost of education, the value of the trades, and how to make informed decisions that lead to financial independence. ⸻ Michael J. McNamara, Ph.D., CFP®, is the founder of McNamara Financial. A seasoned financial planner with over 40 years of experience, Mike is now semi-retired and works exclusively with long-time clients and a select few new ones.