Hiccups. Belly button lint. Why don't birds get electrocuted on power lines? Or is it bad to swallow gum? These are the kinds of inquiries we tackle head-on, leading us to create Fool's FAQ, the podcast built on the idea that there ARE no stupid questions! Join host Hunter Knoche as he fearlessly dives into the everyday mysteries, common misconceptions, and historical head-scratchers you've always wondered about, but have been too embarrassed to ask. Prepare to arm yourself with fascinating ...
…
continue reading
Fools FAQ Podcasts
Financial and retirement planning guidance from Matt Starke, of Great Lakes Retirement Solutions in Saginaw, Michigan.
…
continue reading
Ever wondered if your pet is trying to tell you more than just "feed me"? Do animals have their own secret languages we're only beginning to understand? From the intricate dances of bees to the deep rumbles of elephants and the sophisticated clicks of dolphins, we're diving deep into the world of animal communication to explore what they're really …
…
continue reading

1
October is Financial Planning Month: Here’s Your Checklist
13:41
13:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:41October is known for cooler weather, pumpkins, and Halloween. But did you know it’s also Financial Planning Month? While it might not come with costumes or candy, it’s a perfect reminder to pause, take stock, and be intentional with your money. Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.greatlakesretirementsolutions.com/ Call: 989-401-2949…
…
continue reading

1
Did Alexander Graham Bell Really Invent The Telephone?
11:17
11:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:17Think Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone all by himself? Think again! Get ready for a shocking call as we dial into the untold stories of rival inventors, patent battles, and the hidden figures behind one of the world's most iconic inventions. Join Hunter as we untangle the wires of truth behind the telephone's invention on this episode o…
…
continue reading

1
Did an Asteroid Really Wipe Out the Dinosaurs?
11:26
11:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:26
…
continue reading
Swallowing your gum as a kid always came with a scary warning: "It'll stay in your stomach for seven years!" But is there any truth to this sticky situation? Hunter chews on the facts, separating myth from reality when it comes to gum and your digestive system. Discover what really happens when you swallow gum and if you should actually be worried.…
…
continue reading

1
Do Goldfish Really Have a Three-Second Memory?
7:00
7:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
7:00Think goldfish have a three-second memory? Think again! Hunter is diving deep to shatter the myth and reveal the surprising truth about goldfish intelligence. Prepare to be amazed as we uncover scientific studies proving how long these aquatic creatures can actually remember things for! Learn how this misconception took hold and what it says about …
…
continue reading
In this episode, we break down the science behind the dreaded "brain freeze," from the nerves involved to why it happens in the first place. Discover its quirky history, its surprising link to migraines, and most importantly, how to make it stop! Join Hunter as he chills out and dives deep into the world of brain freeze on this episode of Fool's FA…
…
continue reading

1
What If You Fall Short Of Your Retirement Savings Goal?
15:45
15:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:45Today’s listener question gets right to the heart of retirement planning: how much is enough? They’ve saved a lot, but not quite what they hoped. So can they still retire comfortably, or is that magic number just out of reach? Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.greatlakesretirementsolutions.com/ Call: 989-401-2949…
…
continue reading
Ever wondered why car dealerships seem like ghost towns on Sundays? It's not just about giving the salespeople a day off. Uncover the surprising history of "Blue Laws," tracing back to Puritan beliefs, and see how they still affect your car-buying options today. Discover which states still uphold these traditions, and who's actually fighting to kee…
…
continue reading

1
Does Lightning Really Never Strike Twice in the Same Place?
8:42
8:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:42Think lightning never strikes the same place twice? Think again! Fool's FAQ is here to debunk the electrifying myth and reveal the shocking truth about lightning's behavior. From the science of electrical discharge to the unbelievable story of Roy Sullivan, prepare for a jolt of knowledge! Join Hunter as he uncovers the facts about lightning on thi…
…
continue reading

1
Are Bulls Actually Enraged by the Color Red?
7:15
7:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
7:15Do bulls really see red? Get ready to have your world turned upside down as Hunter tackles the age-old myth of bulls charging at the color red! Discover the real reason behind their aggression and the surprising science behind their vision. On this episode of Fool's FAQ: Bullfighting, red capes, and cattle perception. Got a question that's been nag…
…
continue reading
Unravel the mysteries of the desert! How were the colossal Pyramids of Giza really built? Forget the myths and dive into the real tools, techniques, and workforce behind this ancient wonder. Explore recent archaeological finds and celebrate the sheer human brilliance that shaped one of history's greatest achievements. Join Hunter as he uncovers the…
…
continue reading

1
The 5 Must-Do’s In Year One of Retirement
18:39
18:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:39Well, you’re retired. Now what? Some people subscribe to the “first year rule” which says that the majority of your best retirement months will all take place in the first year of retirement. So how can you be strategic during that first year and set the tone in the right way, both emotionally and financially? Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Websit…
…
continue reading

1
Is Cracking Your Knuckles Really Bad for You?
6:20
6:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:20Is cracking your knuckles a harmless habit, or a one-way ticket to arthritis? Hunter dives deep into the satisfying (or annoying) world of knuckle cracking, separating fact from fiction. We'll explore the science behind the "pop," the truth about joint health, and why you might be doing it in the first place. Join Hunter as he cracks the case on th…
…
continue reading

1
Why Don't Birds Get Electrocuted on Power Lines?
6:10
6:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:10Ever wonder why birds can chill on power lines without getting zapped? We're diving deep into the electrifying truth about our feathered friends and those high-voltage perches. Learn about the physics that keep them safe, the dangers they still face, and how even illegal hunting plays a shocking role in their survival. Join Hunter as we unravel the…
…
continue reading
Ever heard that we only use 10% of our brains? Prepare to have your mind blown as we dissect one of the most persistent brain myths out there! We'll dive into the depths of neuroscience, explore the amazing power of neuroplasticity, and uncover the truth about how your brain really works. Join Hunter as he unlocks the secrets of your gray matter on…
…
continue reading
Hiccups. Belly button lint. Why don't birds get electrocuted on power lines? Or is it bad to swallow gum? These are the kinds of inquiries we tackle head-on, leading us to create Fool's FAQ, the podcast built on the idea that there ARE no stupid questions! Join host Hunter Knoche as he fearlessly dives into the everyday mysteries, common misconcept…
…
continue reading

1
Inflation Is Still Wrecking Retirement Confidence
18:32
18:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:32Inflation may not be in the headlines like it was in 2022, but for most Americans, it’s still public enemy number one when it comes to saving for retirement. A new Schwab survey reveals just how many people still feel unprepared and how that affects their confidence in their financial future. Schwab Survey: https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/pers…
…
continue reading
The kids may be heading back to class, but it’s not a bad time for adults to hit the books too, especially when it comes to retirement. So, let’s test your knowledge with a quick financial pop quiz and see how ready you really are. Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.greatlakesretirementsolutions.com/ Call: 989-401-2949…
…
continue reading

1
7 Retirement Assumptions to Reconsider in 2025
14:18
14:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:18Just because something used to be true doesn’t mean it still is, especially in retirement planning. In 2025, rising interest rates, tax uncertainty, and longer retirements mean it’s time to rethink some of the old advice. These seven assumptions sound smart at first… but they could quietly hurt your plan if you’re not careful. Contact: Great Lakes …
…
continue reading

1
What The One Big Beautiful Bill Means For Your Retirement
24:14
24:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:14A new tax bill has officially passed (you’ve probably heard it mentioned as the “Big Beautiful Bill”). And while most headlines are focused on politics, we’re focused on what it means for your retirement. The choices you make in the next year or two could have a significant impact on how much you keep and how much goes to Uncle Sam. Contact: Great …
…
continue reading

1
Retirement Breaking News: The 4% Rule Gets a Makeover
16:32
16:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:32The 4% rule gets talked about like gospel in retirement planning. But let’s be honest, it’s always been more of a rough guess than a golden rule. Now, its original creator is revising it to 4.7%. So, does that mean your retirement paycheck just got a raise, or is this just another headline that oversimplifies a complex decision? Contact: Great Lake…
…
continue reading

1
The 4 Things You Can Control in Retirement
16:35
16:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:35Markets crash. Taxes shift. Congress waffles on Social Security. You can’t control any of that. And stressing over it won’t help. What will? Focusing on the four things that actually move the needle in retirement. Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.greatlakesretirementsolutions.com/ Call: 989-401-2949…
…
continue reading

1
The Lazy Way to Retire? Let’s Talk Target-Date Funds
15:31
15:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:31Target-date funds just passed $4 trillion in assets. They’re now the default investment in many 401(k)s, and millions of Americans are using them without really understanding how they work. So, are they a smart choice… or just the easiest one? Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.greatlakesretirementsolutions.com/ Call: 989-401-2949…
…
continue reading

1
Should You Lend Money to Friends or Family?
16:14
16:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:14Have you ever been asked by a friend or family member to borrow money? You want to help, but you also don't want to worry about what could go wrong. It’s a common dilemma, and in today’s episode, Matt tackles the tough question: Should you lend money to a loved one? Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.greatlakesretirementsolutions.c…
…
continue reading

1
What Do Proposed Tariffs Mean For Your Portfolio?
19:22
19:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:22The day President Trump took office, he announced plans to implement a 25 percent tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada. Additional tariff conversations have exploded since that day. How might this impact your personal finances and the economy? Today, we’ll explain a bit of the backstory of tariffs and discuss these new tariffs. Contact: Great Lak…
…
continue reading

1
What Should You Actually Do When the Market Drops?
20:10
20:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:10The headlines are loud, the markets are messy, and your gut might be telling you to do something — anything — right now. But what should you actually do when your portfolio takes a hit? Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.greatlakesretirementsolutions.com/ Call: 989-401-2949By Matt Starke
…
continue reading

1
April Fool’s: Beliefs That Fool Retirement Savers The Most
18:16
18:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:16April Fool’s Day is all about jokes and pranks, but when it comes to retirement planning, getting fooled can cost you real money. Today, we’re uncovering the beliefs that fool retirees and pre-retirees into making bad financial moves. Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.greatlakesretirementsolutions.com/ Call: 989-401-2949…
…
continue reading

1
Caring for an Aging Parent: Financially Smart or Emotionally Costly
15:59
15:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:59When an aging parent needs care, the decision isn’t just financial. It’s emotional, logistical, and deeply personal. Mike’s 93-year-old mom has fallen twice in the past month, and he’s weighing two options: bring her to live with him or pay for in-home care out of his own pocket. Which choice makes the most sense, both financially and for his famil…
…
continue reading

1
Built a Business, But Not a Retirement Plan? Here’s What to Do Now
15:09
15:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:09You’ve built a successful business, but now the big question is, how do you turn that into a retirement plan? If you’re like many entrepreneurs, you’ve spent years reinvesting in your business, but what happens when it’s time to step away? Can you sell it? Can you create passive income from it? Or should you start saving in other ways right now? In…
…
continue reading

1
If You’re a Smart Investor, Do You Really Need a Financial Advisor
18:40
18:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:40If you’ve spent years successfully managing your own investments, do you really need a financial advisor? That’s the question one of our listeners sent in. He’s got an MBA, knows the markets well, and has always handled his portfolio solo. So, is working with an advisor just an extra expense, or could it actually add real value? In this episode, we…
…
continue reading

1
Social Security Claiming Tips for Diverse Family Situations
18:04
18:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:04Social Security claiming strategies can vary greatly depending on family dynamics. This episode explores how different family situations, such as those with a stay-at-home spouse or a blended family, can impact when and how to claim Social Security benefits to maximize your retirement income. Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.grea…
…
continue reading

1
The Snowbird Retirement: Is a Seasonal Move Right for You?
18:52
18:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:52Brrr, it’s cold out there! Winter has a lot of people thinking about warmer weather. For some, that just means an annual vacation down south. But for certain retirees, they choose to live elsewhere through the brunt of winter, becoming “snowbirds.” Is snowbird life for you? Let’s talk about what motivates people to take up temporary residence elsew…
…
continue reading

1
Transform Your Money Mindset in 30 Days- 2025 Method (Part 2)
19:27
19:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:27Today, we’re back to continue unveiling the 2025 Method to transform your money mindset in just 30 days. Whether you’re overwhelmed by debt, stuck in a savings rut, or simply stressed about money, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you think differently and achieve financial comfort. Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: h…
…
continue reading

1
Transform Your Money Mindset in 30 Days- 2025 Method (Part 1)
20:30
20:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:30Today, we’re unveiling the 2025 Method to transform your money mindset in just 30 days. Whether you’re overwhelmed by debt, stuck in a savings rut, or simply stressed about money, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you think differently and achieve financial comfort. Be sure to tune back for part 2 of this conversation in a f…
…
continue reading

1
Don’t Blow Your Bonus! Smart Ways to Use a Lump Sum Payout
13:08
13:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:08Whether you’re anticipating a year-end bonus this December, recently received an inheritance, or even won the lottery (hey, we’re all allowed to dream), figuring out what to do with a large financial windfall can feel overwhelming. No matter how you’ve come into this newfound wealth, it’s important to approach it thoughtfully. Contact: Great Lakes …
…
continue reading

1
Don’t Gamble With Your Nest Egg: Lessons From Your Favorite Game Shows
15:05
15:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:05Everyone loves a good game show. Whether it’s spinning the big wheel or hitting the buzzer with all the right answers. But what happens when people turn their retirement planning into a game? Spoiler alert: it’s not always a win! In this episode, we tackle the risky moves people make when they treat their finances like a game of chance. Contact: Gr…
…
continue reading

1
Social Security Shake-Up: How Raising the Retirement Age Could Impact You
20:26
20:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:26Social Security is the backbone of retirement for millions of Americans, but big changes may be coming. In this episode, we dive into the recently released proposal to raise the full retirement age to 69 and what it means for your benefits, your future, and your financial security. Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.greatlakesretir…
…
continue reading

1
Happening Now: Current Economic Issues and Other 4th Quarter Items
13:44
13:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:44The financial landscape is changing rapidly, and if you’re focused on retirement, these shifts can’t be ignored. In today’s episode, we break down the trends that will define the rest of 2024 and what they mean for your retirement plan. Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.greatlakesretirementsolutions.com/ Call: 989-401-2949…
…
continue reading

1
Retirees In Their 70s Regret These 5 Things
18:12
18:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:12A random, retired YouTuber did a simple video exploring the top 5 regrets from other retirees he interviewed (all in their 70s). It blew up to almost half a million views (and counting). Let’s see what regrets made the list and, more importantly, explore what proactive steps you can take to avoid having the same regrets when you retire. Contact: Gr…
…
continue reading

1
The Magic 8 Ball’s Guide to Retirement Planning
23:18
23:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:18Remember the thrill of shaking a Magic 8 Ball to get answers to your childhood questions? Would we ace that math test? Would we be famous someday? Well, today, we're bringing a bit of that magic back. But instead of asking about pop quizzes and playground crushes, we’re turning to the Magic 8 Ball for advice on something much more important: your r…
…
continue reading

1
Never Stop Asking 'How Do You Know?' - Navigating Retirement Planning (Part 2)
22:09
22:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:09Remember when you were a kid, always asking 'How do you know?' about everything, like why the sky is blue or where the sun goes at night? That curiosity doesn't go away as we get older; it just turns into different questions, like the ones we face when planning for retirement. In this two-part episode, we’re digging into the 'How Do You Knows' of r…
…
continue reading

1
Never Stop Asking 'How Do You Know?' - Navigating Retirement Planning (Part 1)
19:21
19:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:21Remember when you were a kid, always asking 'How do you know?' about everything, like why the sky is blue or where the sun goes at night? That curiosity doesn't go away as we get older; it just turns into different questions, like the ones we face when planning for retirement. In this two-part episode, we’re digging into the 'How Do You Knows' of r…
…
continue reading
Matt gets a lot of questions about 401ks, and knows they can be tricky to navigate. That's why we're tackling your top questions in one comprehensive episode. Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.greatlakesretirementsolutions.com/ Call: 989-401-2949By Matt Starke
…
continue reading

1
Lies You Might Be Telling Yourself About Money
20:02
20:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:02Are you telling yourself financial lies? Discover some top lies people often tell themselves about money and retirement. Some of these could be severely holding you back, so stay tuned! Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.greatlakesretirementsolutions.com/ Call: 989-401-2949By Matt Starke
…
continue reading

1
Beware of Retirement Half-Truths (Part 2)
18:37
18:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:37We hear a lot of half-truths in the financial world, not necessarily because people try to make misleading statements, but because sometimes a simple statement just doesn’t quite tell the whole story. On this episode, we’re back to discuss a few more examples. Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.greatlakesretirementsolutions.com/ Ca…
…
continue reading

1
Beware of Retirement Half-Truths (Part 1)
20:19
20:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:19We hear a lot of half-truths in the financial world, not necessarily because people try to make misleading statements, but because sometimes a simple statement just doesn’t quite tell the whole story. On this episode, we’ll discuss a few examples. Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.greatlakesretirementsolutions.com/ Call: 989-401-2…
…
continue reading

1
The Beauty of Simplicity When Planning For Retirement
15:13
15:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:13Retirement planning doesn’t have to be overwhelmingly complicated. It certainly doesn’t have to be as complicated as some people make it. In our next episode, we unravel the unnecessary complexities often woven into the fabric of retirement advice. We’ll debunk some myths, simplify strategies, and uncover the beauty of simplicity and straightforwar…
…
continue reading

1
Combatting Popular Excuses For Poor Financial Decision-Making
16:35
16:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:35Very often, we see people who know that the financial decisions that they’re making aren’t the best decisions, but they try to create excuses or explanations for why they’re doing what they’re doing. Let’s talk about why these excuses usually don’t hold water. Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.greatlakesretirementsolutions.com/ Ca…
…
continue reading
Psychologists have determined that retirement is one of the most stressful events that some people will experience in life. In this episode, we’ll look at the ways to proactively deal with the stress surrounding the retirement process. Contact: Great Lakes Retirement Website: http://www.greatlakesretirementsolutions.com/ Call: 989-401-2949…
…
continue reading