Simply Financial With Paul Durso

Building a dividend portfolio in 2026 starts with defining your goals—whether you want maximum income, strong growth, or a blend of both. The hosts explain that dividend investing includes three “pillars”: foundational growers like dividend aristocrats, high-yield income producers such as energy companies, and opportunity stocks like maturing tech firms or companies recovering from past dividend cuts. A smart portfolio typically balances these categories, with about half in foundational growers, 20–30% in income producers, and 10–15% in higher-risk opportunities. They warn against chasing high yields without checking financial health, especially earnings trends and payout ratios. Ultimately, success comes from patience, diversification, and letting reinvested dividends compound over time.www.planningmadesimple.com

This episode breaks down what really happens to your income during a bear market—whether you're investing for dividends or relying on mutual funds. The hosts explain why market volatility feels so emotionally overwhelming and how traditional withdrawal-based strategies can spiral when values drop. They contrast that with dividend investing, where income is tied to shares owned, not account balance, and explore the roles of “lifters,” “holders,” and “cutters” during downturns. You’ll also hear how rebalancing in scary markets can actually increase long-term income and why staying invested is often the smartest move. Overall, it’s a practical, calming deep-dive into navigating fear, volatility, and income stability during turbulent markets.www.planningmadesimple.com

This episode dives into the question of whether investors really need to diversify beyond dividend-paying stocks. The hosts break down the “diversification myth,” explaining how many people end up with portfolios full of redundant investments they don’t understand. Using relatable examples—from grocery shopping to pizza toppings—they highlight why true planning starts with knowing your income shortfall, not collecting random assets. They show how understanding your needs, strategy, and surplus creates real financial freedom. Ultimately, the episode empowers listeners to invest with purpose rather than pressure or fear.www.planningmadesimple.com#dividends #investing #financialfreedom #stocks #dividendincome #wealthbuilding

High dividend yields can look tempting—but they don’t always mean you’re earning more. In this episode, we explain why focusing on yield percentage alone can lead investors astray, and why the real number that matters is the actual dollar payout. We unpack how stock prices, volatility, and emotional decision-making can distort your view of “income,” and share practical ways to build long-term dividend stability.

In this episode, the hosts dive into the truth about monthly dividend-paying stocks, asking whether getting paid more often really matters. They explain that while monthly dividends may seem attractive, they’re often a marketing tactic rather than a sign of a stronger investment. The discussion explores the differences between REITs, BDCs, and traditional dividend stocks, warning listeners about potential red flags such as unsustainable payouts or returns of principal disguised as dividends. Ultimately, the hosts encourage investors to focus on quality, sustainability, and true income growth—not just payment frequency.www.planningmadesimple.com

In this episode, the hosts dive into how the Federal Reserve’s recent rate cut is influencing the housing market and mortgage rates. Guest Jonathan Ramirez explains the often-misunderstood relationship between the federal funds rate and mortgage rates, breaking down how bond markets and economic reports drive real-time rate changes. The discussion explores how anticipation, inflation data, and job reports impact the market more than the Fed’s announcements themselves. The hosts also consider what buyers should expect heading into the next year, predicting stronger home sales and lower mortgage rates by year’s end. Listeners walk away with practical insights on why now may be a prime time to buy — and how to navigate the housing market with confidence.www.planningmadesimple.com

This episode explores the idea of picking five dividend-paying stocks to hold for the next 20 years. The hosts outline criteria such as a long history of dividend payments, strong brand recognition, solid cash reserves, and shareholder commitment. They discuss companies like Microsoft, Nucor, Coca-Cola, Franklin, and Invesco, weighing their strengths and risks. The conversation emphasizes that while this is a fun thought experiment, long-term investing requires monitoring and adaptability as markets and businesses evolve. Ultimately, it highlights the power of dividend growth investing but cautions against a rigid “set it and forget it” approach.www.planningmadesimple.com

This episode features a conversation with Jonathan Romero about the slowdown in the housing market and how rising interest rates have reshaped buyer and seller expectations. They discuss the dramatic shift from the pandemic-era housing boom, when homes sold instantly at record-low rates, to today’s more cautious environment with higher borrowing costs. Romero explains how affordability challenges, increased inventory, and negotiation opportunities are influencing market dynamics, while also noting the long-term strength of housing as an investment. The discussion closes with practical advice, urging buyers to make thoughtful, goal-driven decisions and trust both financial wisdom and personal conviction when considering a move.www.planningmadesimple.com

This podcast explores the concept of retiring on dividends and how to structure a plan that provides lasting income. Paul Durso and the other hosts discuss common misconceptions about retirement, including the focus on a “magic number” of savings instead of the income those savings can generate. They break down key steps such as calculating your lifestyle needs, identifying shortfalls, and determining the yield required to cover them. By focusing on dividend-paying stocks and sustainable yields, they emphasize building a portfolio that provides financial security without the fear of running out of money. Ultimately, the conversation stresses that retirement planning is less about chasing growth and more about creating reliable, stress-free income streams.www.planningmadesimple.com

This episode explores the differences between dividends and bonds, breaking down their pros, cons, and how they fit into retirement planning. The hosts use relatable analogies—like renting versus owning a home—to explain how bonds provide steady but limited returns, while dividends offer both income and growth potential, though with added risk. They highlight inflation as a key factor, noting that bonds may lose purchasing power over time, whereas dividend-paying stocks can increase payouts and value. Ultimately, the discussion emphasizes that the right choice depends on individual goals, risk tolerance, and planning.www.planningmadesimple.com

This episode explores the concept of Dividend Reinvestment Plans (DRIPs) and how they can help investors grow wealth automatically. The hosts explain how reinvesting dividends creates a compounding “snowball effect,” steadily increasing both share ownership and dividend payouts over time. They use analogies like money trees and groves to illustrate how portfolios can expand and provide lasting income. The conversation also highlights benefits such as dollar-cost averaging, tax considerations, and hybrid strategies for retirees, while encouraging listeners to turn on DRIPs as a simple, powerful wealth-building tool.www.planningmadesimple.com

This episode explores the concept of Dividend Aristocrats—stocks that have increased their dividends for at least 25 consecutive years. The hosts explain why companies like Coca-Cola, Johnson & Johnson, and Procter & Gamble are considered the “gold standard” for income investors, highlighting their reliability, resilience, and rising income. Listeners learn how these stocks have historically outperformed the market with less volatility, while also debunking common myths about dividend investing.www.planningmadesimple.com

This episode explores the balance between yield and growth when it comes to building a strong retirement plan. The hosts break down the trade-off between choosing higher-yielding investments that provide immediate cash flow and lower-yielding options with the potential to grow significantly over time. Using clear examples, they show how a 4% dividend that grows steadily can eventually outperform a flat 7% yield, highlighting the importance of long-term planning. The discussion emphasizes finding the right blend of yield for today and growth for tomorrow to ensure both stability and sustainability in retirement.www.planningmadesimple.com

This episode dives into the age-old debate of bonds versus dividends, exploring the pros and cons of each investment option. The hosts explain how bonds can provide predictable, stable income but lack growth and inflation protection, while dividends offer potential for increasing income and appreciation, though with more volatility and risk. They also discuss how factors like age, income needs, and risk tolerance should guide the right mix of bonds and dividends in a portfolio. The conversation emphasizes due diligence, understanding your financial goals, and balancing stability with growth.www.planningmadesimple.com

This episode takes a deep dive into the risks and realities of leveraged ETFs, a flashy investment product that often promises sky-high yields. The hosts break down how these funds work, why they can be so tempting, and the hidden dangers lurking beneath the surface—like volatility decay, principal risk disguised as income, and long-term underperformance. With clear explanations and real-world comparisons, they reveal how many leveraged ETFs are more hype than substance, often leaving investors worse off. Listeners will walk away with a sharper perspective on why “too good to be true” investments usually are.www.planningmadesimple.com

This episode explores the “growth code,” weighing the trade-offs between high-yield dividend stocks and long-term dividend growth. The hosts break down why investors are often drawn to higher immediate payouts, but also highlight the risks of yield traps and unstable companies. Through examples and case studies, they show how dividend growth can build stronger, more sustainable income over decades, even if it starts smaller. The discussion also touches on pensions, legacy planning, and the importance of patience, discipline, and strategy in building lasting wealth.www.planningmadesimple.com

This episode of Planning Made Simple explores the hidden costs behind the widely accepted "1% fee" in the financial industry. Paul Durso, along with Kyle Morgan and Niki Erb compare financial services to premium experiences like high-end restaurants, where value is emphasized over price, and explain how flashy ads and lavish offices are ultimately paid for by investors. They dig into industry data, revealing that the actual top-line revenue from financial services is closer to 10% of total assets. The conversation uncovers how fees—often buried in products like mutual funds, annuities, and 401(k)s—add up beyond the obvious advisory fee. It's a revealing look at where your money really goes in the world of finance.www.planningmadesimple.com

This episode explores the hidden risks behind high-yield dividend stocks. While big yields may seem appealing to investors, they can often signal deeper issues like declining stock prices, excessive debt, or unstable management. Paul and Kyle explain how dividend yields are calculated and why a rising yield can be misleading if it's the result of a falling stock price. Real-world cases, such as AT&T and Walgreens, illustrate how chasing high dividends can lead to unexpected cuts and losses. Ultimately, the episode encourages thoughtful research over yield-chasing.www.planningmadesimple.com

This episode of Planning Made Simple explores how corporate tax policy directly impacts dividend-paying companies and, ultimately, individual investors. Paul, Kyle, and Niki explain how higher taxes can reduce a company's ability to reinvest, grow, or maintain jobs, with dividends often prioritized over workforce retention. They highlight key historical tax reforms and their economic effects, noting that tax cuts have historically correlated with market growth. Practical advice is offered to investors about monitoring legislation, using research tools, and understanding that the effects of tax policy can take years to materialize. Overall, the conversation underscores the ripple effect tax policy has from corporations down to everyday portfolios.www.planningmadesimple.com

In this episode, Paul, Kyle, and Niki dive into the importance of free cash flow when evaluating a company's ability to sustain dividend payments. They explain that free cash flow—what's left after all expenses—acts as the company's “what’s in your wallet” metric, crucial for both investors and personal household budgeting. Using relatable analogies, they compare dividends to discretionary spending, highlighting that reliable dividends stem from actual profits, not just optimistic accounting. They emphasize the concept of the payout ratio and urge investors to ensure companies aren't over-leveraging to pay dividends. The episode drives home the point that confidence in dividend investing comes from understanding how cash flow supports consistent returns.www.planningmadesimple.com