Episodes

  • Episode 331: Making a Meaningful Investment in your Child’s (or Grandchild’s) Future - with Guest Nicole Giefer
    Jun 20 2026
    In this episode of Paladin Financial Talk, Host and Investment Advisor Representative Nikki Foley sits down with parent and former college athlete Nicole Giefer to discuss the realities of youth sports, extracurricular activities, and the financial decisions families face along the way. Together, they explore the trade-offs between investing in children's opportunities and maintaining long-term financial goals, while sharing perspectives on scholarships, family support, and the life skills gained through activities beyond the classroom.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Episode 330: Leadership, Life Skills & the Cost of Preparing Kids for the Future - with Guest Megan Stone
    Jun 13 2026
    In this episode of Paladin Financial Talk, Host and Investment Advisor Representative Nikki Foley sits down with Featured Guest Megan Stone—Leadership Director at Gentry Academy, author, and founder of Stone Foundations of Learning—to discuss the traits that truly prepare students for life beyond the classroom and the important role parents, grandparents, coaches, teachers, and other mentoring adults play in helping young people develop life readiness. Nikki and Megan discuss how these same skills influence future earning potential, career growth, and a student’s ability to navigate major life and financial decisions.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Episode 329: A Graduate’s Perspective on College, Money & Responsibility - with Guest Isabelle Adams
    Jun 6 2026
    In this episode of Paladin Financial Talk, Host and Investment Advisor Representative Nikki Foley sits down with Creighton University’s graduating senior Isabelle Adams to discuss the student perspective on college costs, financial support, and personal responsibility.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Episode 328: Housing, Affordability & the Future of Minnesota Communities - with Guest Mark Foster
    May 30 2026
    Housing affects far more than just where we live—it impacts financial stability, retirement planning, workforce growth, and the overall health of our communities. In this episode of Paladin Financial Talk, host Nikki Foley sits down with Featured Guest Mark Foster, Vice President of Legislative and Political Affairs at Housing First Minnesota. Nikki and Mark discuss what legislative conversations are happening right now in Minnesota, where progress is being made, and what changes could have the biggest impact on housing accessibility in the years ahead. If you’ve ever wondered why housing feels increasingly complex—or how housing decisions influence nearly every other financial goal—this episode provides an important big-picture perspective.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Episode 327: The Psychology of Home Decisions: Turning Emotion into Strategy in Retirement - with Guest Ben Bina
    May 23 2026
    For many retirees, deciding whether to downsize, relocate, or stay put is deeply emotional, making it easy to overlook the financial realities. In this episode, guest Ben Bina breaks down how to separate your feelings from your finances when managing your housing wealth. Learn how to transform sentimental real estate choices into a clear, stress-free strategy that protects your retirement roadmap.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Episode 326: The Housing Market Right Now: What's Driving Rates and What Comes Next - with Guest Jay Dacey
    May 16 2026
    In this episode, mortgage expert Jay Dacey joins us to break down the complex forces currently shaping the housing market, from persistent inflation data to the volatility of the 10-year Treasury yield. We dive deep into why mortgage rates remain in the mid-6% range and what the latest inventory shifts mean for both hopeful buyers and current homeowners. Finally, Jay shares his professional outlook on where the market is headed for the remainder of 2026 and offers actionable advice on how to navigate the "new normal" of real estate financing.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Episode 325: Twin Cities Housing: What You Can Control--and What Actually Matters - with Guest Justin Brama
    May 9 2026
    Navigate the complex Twin Cities real estate market with Realtor Justin Brama of Edina Realty as he reveals which factors buyers can actually influence and which are just distractions. This episode cuts through the noise of fluctuating interest rates to focus on high-impact strategies for securing your home in Minnesota's unique landscape. Learn how to prioritize what truly matters so you can make a confident, informed move in today's competitive housing climate.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Episode 324: What Today's Housing Market Means for Your Finances - with Jeff Foley
    May 2 2026
    In this episode, we break down how 2026’s stabilizing mortgage rates and rising inventory are finally shifting leverage back toward buyers after years of volatility. We explore practical strategies for navigating today's "rebalanced" market, from timing a refinance to leveraging new builder incentives that can lower your monthly payments. Whether you're looking to buy your first home or protect your existing equity, learn how current housing trends impact your long-term wealth and savings goals.
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    Less than 1 minute