Talking Money, Clearly
Talking Money, Clearly with Wes Cuprill is your straightforward guide to making smarter financial decisions.
Each week, Wes breaks down investing basics, financial planning, and money management with a no-nonsense approach that cuts through Wall Street hype. From budgeting, saving, and paying off debt to building wealth, retirement planning, and navigating today’s financial noise, this show delivers clear advice for millennials, middle-aged adults, and families who want to take control of their future.
With segments like Wealth Wise Women and expert insights on global diversification, financial literacy, and long-term investing, Wes brings both education and coaching to help you stay committed to your plan and avoid costly mistakes. If you’re ready for practical financial strategies, real-world clarity, and a coach who tells it like it is, this podcast is for you.
Talking Money, Clearly
The 401(k) Benefits — The Very Short List
The 401(k) might be the most common retirement plan in America — but its “benefits” aren’t as impressive as they seem. In this episode, I revisit the traditional 401(k), explain what actually makes it valuable, and why that list is shorter than most people think. You’ll learn how tax-deferred contributions really work, when employer matches can make a difference, and why contribution limits and portability matter for long-term planning.
I also break down why the 401(k) still plays a major role in most retirement strategies — even as its weaknesses become more obvious.
Next week, we’ll dive into the cons of the 401(k) and how they might affect your financial future.
👉 Subscribe for clear, practical advice on investing, retirement, tax planning, and building lasting wealth.
Chapters🕓
00:00 - Tank’s Cameo and Recap
00:41 - Why the 401(k) Still Matters in Retirement Planning
01:09 - How Retirement Is Evolving for Younger Generations
01:32 - The Biggest Benefit: Tax-Deferred Growth
02:13 - The Roth 401(k) Explained
02:42 - Employer Contributions: The “Free Money” Advantage
03:01 - Understanding Vesting and Staying Power
03:32 - Higher Contribution Limits vs. IRAs
04:17 - More Investment Options Than Ever Before
04:47 - Portability and Legal Protections (ERISA)
05:03 - The Short List: Few Real Benefits Remain
05:28 - The 401(k)’s Role in a Modern Financial Ecosystem
06:09 - What’s Next: The Cons of the 401(k)
