The Weekly Wealth Podcast

📄 Episode DescriptionThe days after Christmas often bring a rare and beautiful pause—less noise, fewer obligations, and space to breathe. In this special abbreviated episode of The Weekly Wealth Podcast, Certified Financial Planner™ David Chudyk invites listeners to step away from budgets, to-do lists, and financial strategies to reflect on a different kind of wealth.This episode explores the qualitative side of wealth: rest, gratitude, contentment, and time with the people who matter most. It’s a reminder that true wealth isn’t just what’s on paper—it’s who’s sitting around your table.⏱️ Episode HighlightsWhy the week after Christmas is one of the most valuable times of the yearRest as a legitimate and powerful form of wealthWhy burnout leads to poor decisions—financial and personalHow thankfulness changes our relationship with moneyRecognizing everyday privileges we often overlookWhy time with family is the only asset that isn’t renewableLetting ambition pause—and giving yourself permission to restA special “permission slip” for contentment heading into the new year💡 Key TakeawaysRest isn’t laziness—it’s recovery, margin, and fuel for better decisionsMoney is a tool, not the goal; it’s meant to support a meaningful lifeGratitude reduces financial anxiety by shifting focus from scarcity to abundanceTime is irreplaceable—money can be earned again, but moments cannotThere’s value in recognizing when you already have enough🎁 Bonus Content: A Permission Slip for the SeasonAs the year winds down, David shares a powerful reminder: 2026 can be a year of ambition, growth, and big goals—but the rest of this year can be about contentment.Not complacency—but appreciation. Not slowing down forever—but resting without guilt.If you’re listening between Christmas and New Year’s, consider this your permission slip to pause.🙏 Final ReflectionWealth isn’t just measured by accounts and statements. It’s measured by connection, faith, relationships, and peace.This week, rest. Be thankful. Spend time with the people you love. There will be plenty of time to focus on the details soon enough.📢 Connect With the ShowFollow The Weekly Wealth Podcast on:InstagramFacebook

Ep 247: Portfolio Construction 101

12/19/2025 | 27 mins.

📌 Episode OverviewWhen people hear “investing,” they often think about hot stocks, market predictions, or timing the next big move. In this episode of The Weekly Wealth Podcast, Certified Financial Planner David Chudyk breaks down what truly matters: how your portfolio is structured, balanced, and managed over time.This episode isn’t about what to buy—it’s about why you own what you own, how different investments interact, and how intentional design can lead to better long-term outcomes, especially during market volatility.🧠 What You’ll LearnWhy portfolio construction matters more than picking the “right” investmentHow investors can own great investments but still get poor resultsThe difference between intelligence and structure in investingWhy most portfolios are built unintentionally—and the risks that creates📊 Key Concepts Explained 🔹 Alpha vs. BetaAlpha: Returns above what the market providesBeta: Exposure to market movement (upside and downside)Why many investors mistake higher risk for true outperformance🔹 Concentration RiskHow overexposure to one stock, sector, or employer can quietly build riskWhy diversification doesn’t just grow wealth—it helps preserve it🔹 Index Funds: Pros & ConsPros:Low costBroad market exposureSimplicity and transparencyLimitations:Full exposure to market downturnsNo built-in risk management or tax coordinationIncreasing concentration within major indexesIndex funds are powerful tools—but they are not a full strategy on their own.🔁 Correlation, Volatility & Real RiskWhy assets that look diversified can still move togetherThe difference between volatility (movement) and true risk (permanent loss)How behavior—not numbers—often determines investment outcomes🏗️ Beyond Stocks: Other Investment ToolsDavid discusses how different assets can play different roles in a portfolio, including:Real estate (direct ownership vs. REITs)Gold and precious metalsPrivate equity and private creditAnnuities and lifetime income strategiesEach comes with unique risk, liquidity, and complexity trade-offs that must align with your stage of life and financial goals.⚠️ Why DIY Portfolios Often StruggleMarkets changeLife changesTaxes become more impactful over...

Episode SummaryIn this holiday-inspired episode, David Chudyk shares 10 meaningful financial “gifts” your future self will be grateful for in 2026 and beyond. These gifts aren’t wrapped under a tree—they’re intentional decisions that build clarity, confidence, stability, and long-term wealth. This episode is designed for anyone looking to step into the new year with better habits, smarter planning, and a sense of peace around their finances.Key Topics Covered1. The Gift of Financial ClarityUnderstanding your numbers—spending, savings rate, debt, investments, and insurance—gives you control instead of chaos. You don’t need perfect tracking, just greater awareness.2. The Gift of a Fully Funded Emergency FundA boring but powerful gift. Cash reserves protect you from crises and help you take advantage of opportunities. Start with one month saved and build toward 3–6 months.3. The Gift of Intentional (Not Emotional) SpendingWealthy people spend with purpose, not impulse. Focus on experiences, relationships, health, and convenience that aligns with your goals.4. The Gift of Protecting the People You LoveInsurance, wills, power of attorney, and updated beneficiaries—all crucial. Protection isn’t just about money; it's about easing the burden on the people who matter most.5. The Gift of Better HealthYour future self needs movement, sleep, lower stress, stronger muscles, and fewer “fast-food emergencies.” Health is a financial asset—protect it now.6. The Gift of Automatic ProgressAutomation beats motivation every time. Automate savings, investments, debt payments, and charitable giving so progress happens without effort.7. The Gift of Meaningful, Not Generic, GoalsYour goals should be specific, measurable, realistic, and emotionally powerful. Tie goals to purpose—for example, buying a beach house for family connection or funding kids’ college for their future freedom.8. The Gift of Giving in Ways That MatterGive in alignment with your values—whether that means money, time, mentoring, service, or presence. Meaningful generosity benefits the giver as much as the receiver.9. The Gift of Guidance (Not Going It Alone)Stop trying to figure everything out yourself. Find the “who”—a financial advisor, tax professional, mentor, business coach—to reduce mistakes and speed up progress.10. The Gift of Saying “No” More OftenProtect your time, energy, financial health, and emotional well-being. Every “yes” is also a “no” to something else. Make sure your commitments align with your priorities.Bonus Gift (for Business Owners): The Value Builder ScoreDiscover the current health and approximate value of your business and learn which areas to improve to increase profitability and future sellability.Take the 10–15 minute assessment at: weeklywealthpodcast.com/valuebuilderscoreCall to Action• Schedule a 10-Minute Wealth Vision Call: weeklywealthpodcast.com/vision• Connect on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube @WeeklyWealthPodcast• Email David: [email protected]•...

📘 Show Notes: 26 Big Decisions for Wealth GrowthEpisode Title: 26 Big Decisions for Wealth GrowthHost: David Chudyk, CFP®Podcast: The Weekly Wealth Podcast🔥 Episode OverviewIn this episode, David breaks down 26 powerful “big decisions” that can dramatically impact your wealth, business, lifestyle, and long-term financial freedom. Instead of tackling everything at once, David challenges listeners to choose one single decision to focus on in 2026—the one that will create a domino effect in every area of life.This episode is perfect for business owners, high-income earners, and successful professionals who want clarity, momentum, and a more intentional wealth strategy.🔢 Part 1: Quantitative Wealth Decisions (Numbers-Based Moves)These decisions directly affect your net worth, profitability, tax efficiency, and financial structure.Set a target net-worth growth rate for 2026Focus on increasing business profitability (not just revenue)Restructure your compensation for tax-efficient savingsImplement a formal owner-distribution strategyEliminate one major wealth-dragging liabilityReallocate your investments based on real risk capacityDecide whether you will max out all available retirement plansBuild a profit reserve for your business (3+ months of expenses)Complete your 2026 tax projection by March 1Adopt a tax-efficient investment strategyDiversify away from reliance on one major customerSet a personal liquidity target ($50k–$100k+)Align your insurance coverages with actual risk exposure💡 Part 2: Qualitative Wealth Decisions (Life-Enhancing Choices)These improve clarity, communication, organization, and long-term planning. Create or update your Life & Wealth Master PlanStart preparing early for your business exit strategyDocument your business’s standard operating proceduresEstablish a quarterly financial review rhythmAdopt a “documentation-first” financial habitStrengthen financial communication with your spouse/partnerBuild your Personal Board of Advisors (CPA, advisor, attorney, etc.)Delegate/automate low-value tasks to reclaim high-value time🌱 Part 3: Lifestyle, Legacy & Joy DecisionsBecause wealth is meaningless if it doesn't improve life.Spend intentionally on meaningful experiencesDesign a generosity strategy (charitable giving, DAF, family giving traditions)Update your estate plan to match your current wealthConsider working with a personal CFO/financial advisor to coordinate everythingChoose your ONE big decision for 2026—and commit to it🎧 Listener ChallengeDavid asks each listener to identify ONE decision from the list that will define their year.Share it by leaving a voicemail at:👉

In this special Thanksgiving edition, David brings a little humor (and a questionable turkey sound effect) to kick off a heartfelt conversation about gratitude—why it matters, how it affects our lives, and why focusing on the good can be one of the most powerful wealth-building mindsets we can adopt.🌟 Why Gratitude MattersDavid explores three big reasons gratitude is more than just a nice idea:✅ 1. Gratitude Shifts Our FocusOur brains are wired to look for danger and problems.Gratitude forces us to notice wins, progress, and blessings.What we focus on expands—looking for good creates more good.Negative focus can lead to defensive behavior and a self-fulfilling prophecy.Gratitude helps you become more positive, likable, and open to opportunity.✅ 2. Gratitude Improves Mental & Physical HealthResearch shows gratitude:Reduces stress, anxiety, and depressionImproves sleepBoosts emotional intelligenceGrateful people report higher life satisfaction—even without more money or success.✅ 3. Gratitude Strengthens RelationshipsSaying “thank you” deepens trust and connection.People who feel appreciated communicate better and offer more support.In families, teams, and businesses, gratitude fuels unity and collaboration.🙏 A Personal NoteDavid reflects on his own blessings this year and encourages listeners to:Recognize the good in their own livesShare what they're thankful forSpread gratitude within their homes, workplaces, and communities💬 Listener ChallengeTake 60 seconds today and list 3 things you're grateful for.Big or small—it all counts.Share them with someone you care about.📲 Stay ConnectedHelp us grow the Weekly Wealth tribe:Follow on social mediaShare this episode with someone you appreciateJoin the conversation about gratitude and blessings✅ Closing ThoughtGratitude isn’t just a feeling—it’s a mindset that creates better health, stronger relationships, and a more fulfilling life. When we look for good, we tend to find more of it.Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃🌟