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Retirement is supposed to be your golden years, not a financial minefield. Yet too many people make mistakes that chip away at their savings and peace of mind. Skipping estate planning, helping kids a little too much, grabbing Social Security too early, or falling for scams can all put your hard-earned retirement at risk. The good news? With the right strategy, you can steer clear of these traps. This episode breaks down the most common retirement pitfalls and shows how cross-border families in Israel with U.S. brokerage and IRA accounts can stay protected. With a mix of practical planning and a dose of patience, you’ll discover how to keep more of your money working for you — and less of it slipping away. Key Takeaways: Estate planning is the safety net that keeps your family protected. Protect retirement funds by setting boundaries on how much you give away. Delay rash moves — smart Social Security timing and scam awareness can mean more money in your pocket.

Managing cross-border investments from Israel can feel like playing financial chess on two boards at once—and the pressure kicks up when a safe investment matures or a hot market trend starts calling your name. This episode is all about turning those “What now?” moments into smart, confident moves. You’ll discover why cash on hand isn’t lazy money, how to sidestep the fear of missing out, and ways to keep your portfolio both rock-solid and flexible. Think of it as your game plan for making money decisions without the stress. We’ll also dive into why simple strategies often beat flashy ones, and how to give every dollar in your U.S. brokerage and IRA accounts a clear purpose while living in Israel. With tips to help you protect your nest egg, explore exciting opportunities, and keep market hype in check, you’ll come away ready to invest with both confidence and calm. Key Takeaways: Turn cash windfalls into strategic moves that fit your short-, mid-, and long-term goals Use a “fun money” satellite account to ex

The countdown is on... Israel’s 10-year tax holiday doesn’t last forever. When the exemption ends, many olim discover too late that their U.S. brokerage and IRA accounts are suddenly exposed to Israeli taxes, paperwork headaches, and cross-border confusion. The good news? With the right planning, you can stay one step ahead of the deadline and keep your financial life running smoothly. This episode takes you behind the scenes of the so-called “10-Year Tax Trap,” showing how to avoid double taxation, protect your heirs, and simplify your accounts before the rules change. Think of it as your financial checkpoint: a chance to review, adjust, and prepare without panic, and without last-minute scrambles. Key Takeaways: The 10-year tax holiday eventually ends, bringing Israeli capital gains tax into play for U.S. accounts Rushing into moves at the last minute can create bigger problems with both U.S. and Israeli taxes A proactive review now gives you clarity, control, and peace of mind for the years ahead Looking

Managing U.S. accounts from Israel doesn’t have to feel like a juggling act. Between time zones, tax forms, and account restrictions, the move can get overwhelming fast—but the good news is, with the right setup, you can turn financial chaos into clarity. Discover how to streamline your retirement accounts, avoid costly surprises, and create a system that actually works for life in Israel. Think of it as unpacking your financial “suitcase” and finally putting everything in the right place. With a little planning, your U.S. brokerage and IRA accounts can stay just as organized—and effective—as your new life abroad. Key takeaways: Simplify your U.S. accounts so you can manage them stress-free from Israel Tackle time zone hurdles, compliance issues, and cross-border taxes before they trip you up Keep retirement goals on track with regular reviews and a coordinated plan If you’re ready to get your cross-border finances in order, sign up for a free Cross-Border Financial Evaluation at profile-financial.com/call.

Money stress doesn’t just show up in your bank account. It shows up in how you feel every time markets move, bills arrive, or your portfolio statement lands in your inbox. For Americans in Israel juggling U.S. brokerage or IRA accounts, those fears can feel even bigger. But what if you could turn that anxiety into clarity and confidence? This episode dives into why money fears run deeper than numbers on a page and how self-awareness, simple habits, and realistic goals can flip the script. You’ll discover how to recognize the emotional side of investing, build routines that lower stress, and celebrate progress in a way that keeps you moving forward. Because handling money isn’t just about performance... it’s about peace of mind. Key Takeaways: Uncover the hidden ways emotions and past experiences shape financial choices Use knowledge and small wins to reduce money stress and boost confidence Strengthen financial resilience with clear goals, healthy habits, and trusted guidance If you’re looking to build clarit

Inheriting U.S. assets while living in Israel can feel like you’ve just been handed the keys to a treasure chest… only to realize it’s locked, and the instructions are written in two different tax codes. Between cross-border rules, trust and IRA quirks, and the emotions that come with a loved one’s gift, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This episode shows how to turn that “Where do I even start?” feeling into a confident, step-by-step plan. You’ll discover how to bring scattered accounts under control, sidestep expensive mistakes, and use your inheritance to build lasting security. Instead of rushing into quick decisions, you’ll learn how to slow things down, zoom out, and see the whole picture. Think of it as shifting from frantic reaction mode to calm, strategic control—so your inheritance works for you, not against you.  Key Takeaways: Hit pause before making any big moves—time is your ally when managing inherited U.S. assets. Bring your accounts together so you can see your full financial landscape clearly

Money fights, emotional spending, and financial tension—sound familiar? It’s not just about numbers. Guest host BatSheva Goldstein, creator of FinancialDate™ Discussion Cards, steps in to explore the emotional side of money: the hidden “money scripts” shaped by childhood, culture, and family that quietly influence your financial choices. When  you're stuck in the same money argument on repeat, there's often more going on under the surface than you think. BatSheva is joined by financial therapist and CFP® Elana Feinsmith, who shares how couples can stop clashing over cash and start communicating with clarity. From understanding each other’s money values to building a spending plan that actually feels good, this episode is packed with insights to help you make calm, confident financial decisions together. Key Takeaways: Learn how your subconscious money beliefs are shaping your financial reality. Discover how to turn money tension into meaningful conversations. Use simple tools to create a spending plan that

Got U.S. brokerage or IRA accounts and heirs in Israel? Then you’re juggling more than just numbers—you’re navigating cross-border taxes, family dynamics, and future expectations. This episode unpacks how to turn your inheritance plan from a source of stress into a lasting legacy filled with clarity, connection, and purpose. Learn why silence is the real enemy of estate planning, how to start meaningful money conversations with your kids (without the awkwardness), and what simple moves can save your heirs years of confusion. It’s not just about who gets what—it’s about passing on your values with your wealth. Key takeaways: Having open conversations now can prevent heartache later Timing your gifts can sometimes make a bigger impact than waiting A clear plan and a few shared stories can keep your legacy—and your family—intact Want to make sure your U.S. accounts don’t create chaos for your heirs in Israel? Check out International Inheritance Headaches—and How to Avoid Them. It’s packed with tips and strategie

Think your U.S. brokerage account is safe? Not so fast. If you’re living in Israel and still holding accounts in the States, you might be one surprise letter away from a frozen account, a forced closure, or a tax mess you never saw coming. From estate planning nightmares to missed required minimum distributions (RMDs), the cross-border financial world is full of traps for the unprepared. But here’s the good news: with the right plan and a little foresight, you can keep your accounts running smoothly—and legally—without losing sleep. This episode pulls back the curtain on the real risks facing Americans in Israel with U.S. accounts and lays out what smart investors are doing to stay one step ahead. Because when it comes to your money, flying blind just isn’t an option. Key takeaways: Account closures can happen suddenly if your U.S. broker no longer serves clients abroad Cross-border couples face added challenges when estate plans don’t match international rules Delayed RMDs due to account restrictions can co

A health crisis can turn your world upside down—and if your finances aren’t in order, the stress multiplies fast. For Americans living in Israel with U.S. brokerage and IRA accounts, one unexpected illness can mean frozen accounts, legal roadblocks, and major money headaches. But here’s the good news: with a few simple steps, you can stay in control, protect your assets, and make sure your family isn’t left scrambling. From power of attorney documents to emergency funds, this episode dives into the must-haves that every cross-border family should check off before a crisis hits. If you’re making Aliya, already living in Israel, or supporting family across borders, this could be one of the most important financial check-ins you do all year. Key Takeaways: Emergency funds aren’t just good advice—they’re your financial lifeline Granting account access ahead of time prevents major issues later Your estate documents aren’t set-it-and-forget-it. Review them regularly Want a deeper look at how to protect your finance

Retirement income planning doesn’t have to feel like walking a financial tightrope. If you’re living in Israel with your investments still in the U.S., you already know the game is more complicated—exchange rates, taxes, IRAs, RMDs… it’s enough to make your head spin. But here’s the real problem: too many retirees end up guessing instead of planning. They hesitate, hold back, and miss out on the life they actually saved for. This episode is all about cutting through the noise. No more flying blind. No more financial second-guessing. Just clear strategies to help you simplify, automate, and finally feel good about spending your money. Because retirement shouldn’t be one long stress-fest—it should be the part where you get to enjoy the ride. Key Takeaways: Discover why guesswork is the biggest threat to your retirement lifestyle Learn how to turn your savings into a reliable, stress-free income stream Break free from the fear of overspending and start enjoying what you’ve built Want to feel confident about yo

Money clashes, mismatched spending styles, and prenup pressure—when couples don’t talk about finances, things can get messy fast. This episode tackles one of the most overlooked (and awkward!) relationship issues: how to talk about money without ruining the romance. Whether you're dating, getting married for the second time, or trying to merge financial lives, skipping these conversations can cost more than just cash. Special guest Aleeza Ben Shalom—Netflix star of Jewish Matchmaking, relationship coach, and host of the Matchmaker, Matchmaker podcast—joins us to unpack what financial intimacy really means. She shares real-world insights from hundreds of couples, including why generosity reveals more about people than their cash flow, how to start the money conversation without triggering alarm bells, and why love alone isn’t a financial plan. Key takeaways: Talking about money early helps couples avoid future conflict and build true financial intimacy Generosity, risk tolerance, and money habits say more ab

American investment accounts, you could be paying too much (or filing too late) without even realizing it. This episode breaks down how to avoid double taxation, decode the infamous “first bite” rule, and finally get your Israeli and American accountants on the same page without losing your mind. Douglas Goldstein, CFP® teams up with Aryeh Holtz, CPA from Simple Tax, who explains what to file, when to file, and how to avoid the common traps that trip up even the most organized investors. Key takeaways: Know which country gets to tax you first. It’s not as simple as it sounds. Don’t start with the wrong accountant or you’ll end up doing it twice. Tech tools can help, but real human review keeps your return airtight. Get your tax docs in early so you’re not filing in a frenzy. Dive deeper: Learn more about Simple Tax or get in touch at www.simpletax.co.il or message them directly via WhatsApp through the site.

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 and eye-opening take on how silence, patience, and a good question or two might be the most valuable financial tools you've been missing. Key Takeaways: Listening more and talking less can help you make smarter money choices Your story shapes your financial goals, so don't leave it out Couples who understand each other’s money mindset make better decisions together Ready to talk about your story and your money? Schedule your free Cross-Border Financial Evaluation at profile-financial.com/call.  

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. She knows the ins and outs of buying property here and shared insights that every English-speaking buyer should hear before diving in. Whether someone is planning Aliya, investing from abroad, or searching for a permanent place to land, these are the things that matter most. A picture-perfect apartment... or a walk-through reality? Buying off-plan is tempting. The designs look sleek, the buildings are modern, and the perks can sound amazing. But what someone sees in a brochure doesn’t always match reality. W

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 your plan so your heirs don’t need a PhD in international law to carry out your wishes—and why a little proactive planning now can save everyone a lot of headaches later. Key takeaways and action points: Don’t assume your U.S. will works in Israel (or vice versa)—get it reviewed Loop your financial advisor in before you finalize estate documents Leave your heirs a roadmap, not a scavenger hunt Work with pros who understand both sides of the ocean

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, set a regular financial rhythm to avoid decision fatigue, and build resilience for when things go wrong. With the right structure, your finances can stop feeling like a juggling act and start giving you peace of mind. Key Takeaways: Clarity: Know what your money is doing and why Rhythm: Create a regular habit to review and adjust your finances Resilience: Build a system that can handle financial surprises Want to stop second-guessing every financial decision? Schedule your free Cross-Border Financial Evaluation. A s

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’re doing just fine… until they’re not. Most of us check our account balances more than we check our strategy. But here’s the problem: a big balance doesn’t always mean you’re winning. It might just mean you got lucky. And luck isn’t a financial plan. Don’t Rely on “If” to Retire “If the market gives me 10% this year…”  “If the dollar stays strong…”  “If nothing goes wrong…” Sound familiar? Building your future on a bunch of “ifs” is like planning a beach wedding without checking the weather. You need m

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, this episode sheds light on what’s broken and what’s being done to fix it. If you’re juggling Israeli life with American tax rules, this one’s a must-listen. Key Takeaways: Citizenship-based taxation is outdated and creates financial headaches for Americans abroad. Investing outside the U.S. can trigger unexpected tax problems if you're not careful. A push for residence-based taxation could bring long-overdue relief for expats. Want clarity on your personal situation? Book your free Cross-Border Financial Evaluation tod

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 from afar, you'll learn how to build a flexible, stress-free financial setup that gives you options—not headaches. Say goodbye to panic-selling and hello to peace of mind. Key takeaways and action points: Liquidity = freedom. Without it, you're stuck. Avoid costly mistakes by keeping cash ready for surprises. Split your emergency funds between shekels and dollars. Top off your cash reserves when the markets are strong. Want to go deeper? Check out Doug’s article on how to avoid liquidity traps in retirement, especiall