ASKRALPHPODCAST

In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. talks about the temptation to cut corners on taxes. He explains how easy it is to rationalize hiding cash income or overestimating deductions, but warns that even minor tax evasion can have major consequences if the IRS catches you. Ralph explores the most common ways people unintentionally or intentionally cheat on their taxes each year and examines how the IRS actively looks for discrepancies using advanced technology to uncover tax evaders. With penalties including massive fines, prison time, and loss of professional licenses, is it really worth the risk to fudge your tax return to save a few dollars? https://www.askralphpodcast.com/ 00:00 Episode Overview 02:01 Bible Verse 02:40 Common Scenarios of Tax Evasion 03:28 Top Ways People Cheat on Taxes 04:52 Claiming False Deductions 06:41 Barter Transactions as Taxable Income 07:26 Mixing Personal and Business Expenses 08:49 Offshore Accounts and Tax Evasion 09:36 IRS Methods for Detecting Tax Evasion 10:27 Potential Consequences of Tax Evasion 11:54 Coming Clean to the IRS 13:58 Positive Steps to Avoid Tax Cheating 15:43 Final Thoughts 16:39 Outro

When you buy a house, there are a lot of costs that you might not think about. You might have to fix things that break, or your bills might go up and down. In this podcast episode, Ralph Estep Jr. talks about all the money stuff that comes with owning a home. He explains how there are sneaky costs that can surprise you, like having to pay for maintenance, taxes, and insurance. He also gives tips on budgeting for these expenses so you can keep your money safe. Tune in to learn more about how to handle the hidden costs of being a homeowner! https://www.askralphpodcast.com/ 00:00 Episode Overview 00:26 Welcome To Ask To Ralph Podcast And Show Announcements 02:20 Bible Verse 02:56 Maintenance And Repairs 03:59 Property Taxes And Insurance 04:59 Utilities 05:42 Closing Cost 06:38 Unforeseen Repairs And Emergency Fund 07:18 Upgrades And Renovations 07:53 Miscellaneous 08:20 Action Tip#: Research All Costs 08:54 Action Tip#2: Build Up An Emergency Fund 09:11 Action Tip#3: Insurance Rates 09:35 Homeownership Costs 10:00 Episode Recap 10:58 Outro

In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. discusses the crucial role of FDIC insurance in protecting depositors' money in the event of bank failures. He explains that while bank failures are rare, they do occur and can leave depositors vulnerable to losing their savings. However, he reassures listeners that the FDIC was created to maintain stability and public confidence in the banking system, covering deposits up to $250,000 per depositor, per bank. The episode addresses concerns for those with larger balances and online banking, emphasizing the importance of verifying coverage and maintaining records. https://www.askralphpodcast.com/ 00:00 Episode Overview 03:22 Bible Verse 04:18 What is FDIC Insurance and how does it work? 04:48 Bank Failures and the Role of the FDIC 06:16 FDIC Protection for Depositors During Bank Failures 07:16 FDIC Coverage for Online Banks 08:14 Ensuring Coverage for Deposits Over $250,000 09:07 Actionable Steps for FDIC Insurance Coverage 10:28 Final Thoughts 10:47 Outro

Have you ever been enticed by a credit card offer that seemed too good to be true? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. dives into the world of credit card perks, helping you separate the blessings from the burdens. Discover how to maximize credit card benefits while avoiding the pitfalls that can lead to debt and stress. Learn practical tips to use credit cards wisely, and take control of your financial future. https://www.askralphpodcast.com 00:00 Episode Overview 00:29 Welcome and Show Announcements 01:43 Bible Verse 02:16 The Benefits of Credit Cards 02:34 The Costs and Risks 03:09 Practical Tips for Using Credit Cards Wisely 05:53 Actionable Steps to Master Credit Card Usage 07:04 Recap and Encouragement 07:33 Outro

Does the thought of retirement fill you with excitement or dread? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. addresses the common fears surrounding retirement and provides actionable steps and spiritual encouragement to face the future with confidence. Learn how to replace fear with faith and take control of your financial future. https://www.askralphpodcast.com/ 00:00 Episode Overview 00:29 Welcome To Tax Talk Thursday And Show Announcements 01:31 Bible Verse 02:28 Fear of Retirement 03:48 Actionable Step #1: Start with Prayer and Gratitude 04:46 Actionable Step #2: Create a Budget and Track Your Spending 05:18 Actionable Step #3: Start Saving Early and Consistently 05:46 Actionable Step #4: Explore Different Retirement Savings Plans 06:14 Actionable Step #5: Consider Part-Time Work or a Side Hustle 06:33 Actionable Step #6: Seek Professional Advice 07:27 Closing Prayer and Encouragement 09:15 Outro

Are you nearing the end of your car lease and unsure about your next steps? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. explores the three main options available when your car lease ends: turning in the leased car, buying the leased car, or leasing another car. Learn about the pros and cons of each option, tips for making the best decision, and how to ensure you get the best deal. Tune in to gain insights on making a financially sound choice that aligns with your goals. https://www.askralphpodcast.com/ 00:00 Episode Overview 00:16 Welcome and Show Announcements 01:45 Bible Verse 02:19 Introduction to Lease-End Options 02:50 Turning in the Leased Car 03:39 Buying the Leased Car 04:34 Leasing Another Car 05:10 Tips for Making the Best Decision 08:36 Recap 09:50 Outro

Are you having trouble motivating your grown-up children to move out and lead independent lives? As every parent with an adult child living at home understands, it may be quite difficult to find a balance between encouraging and pushing your adult children to become self-sufficient. In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. shares practical strategies for gently launching your maturing children into the real world. Tune in for actionable advice for navigating this delicate transition and helping the next generation start independent lives. https://www.askralphpodcast.com/ 00:00 Episode Overview 00:47 Welcome To Financial Friday And Show Announcements 01:58 Bible Verse 02:48 Tip #1: Set Clear Expectations. 03:35 Tip#2: Charge Rent 03:56 Tip #3: Limit Involvement In Household Duties. 04:26 Tip#4: Don't Redo Their Mistakes 04:53 Tip#5: Encourage More Time Out Of The House 05:22 Tip#6: Make Your Home Less Welcoming 05:53 Tip#7: Stop Giving Money 06:26 Tip#8: Set A Move-Out Deadline 06:55 Tip#9: Help, But Don't Solve 07:22 Tip#10: Show Confidence In Them 07:58 Episode Recap 08:52 Outro

Are you confused about Required Minimum Distributions and how to manage them effectively in retirement? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. addresses the most common problems retirees face regarding RMDs, such as heavy tax penalties for non-compliance and uncertainty around minimizing taxes. Tune in to learn how to establish an RMD strategy that works for your unique situation, understand this crucial retirement planning element, and how to take control of your financial future. https://www.askralphpodcast.com/ 00:00 Episode Overview 00:21 Welcome To Tax Talk Thursday And Show Announcements 01:08 Bible Verse 01:31 What are RMDs(Required Minimum Distributions)? 02:17 Reaching The Age of 73 03:29 Penalties 04:06 Recent Changes in RMDs 05:16 Strategy #1: withdraw more than the minimum 05:38 Strategy #2: qualified charitable distributions 06:28 Strategy #3: explore of Roth conversions. 07:05 Strategy #4: Get help with a financial advisor 07:37 Recap 08:26 Outro

In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. explores the risks and opportunities of AI in lending. While algorithms can analyze more data faster, making lending decisions based solely on numbers risks creating an inefficient system that favors the financially secure while leaving the struggling behind. The episode emphasizes that while AI and data analytics have a role to play, the human element of understanding unique circumstances, exercising judgment, and showing empathy should not be replaced. https://www.askralphpodcast.com/ 00:00 Episode Overview 01:47 Potential Benefits of AI 02:22 Potential Downsides of AI 04:31 The Risks of an AI-only Approach 04:55 Bible Verse 05:34 The Human Connection 06:17 What Can Be Done? 07:24 Final Thoughts 07:38 Outro

Are you worried about the amount of time your children are spending on their smartphones and the potential impact it may have on their development? In today's society, owning a smartphone is commonplace, but it is important to consider the appropriate age for children to have one. In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. delves into trends he has observed regarding children's smartphone usage that all parents should be mindful of. Ralph presents compelling statistics on how smartphones can impact sleep, concentration, social skills, and more. Tune in to discover strategies to ensure that smartphones do not hinder your child's growth and development. https://www.askralphpodcast.com/ 00:00 Episode Overview 00:31 Welcome To Ask To Ralph Podcast 00:49 Show Announcements 01:13 Bible Verse 02:01 Attention Spans 02:37 Sleep Issue 02:57 Smartphone Addiction 03:47 Solution#1: Set Limits 04:05 Solution#2: encourage other activities 04:27 Solution#3: Be a Good Role Model 04:55 Solution#4: Talk To Your Children 05:10 Goals As Parents 05:39 Episode Recap 06:21 Outro

Are you tired of feeling like you'll never escape your debt—that no matter how hard you try to stay afloat, the payments just keep piling up? It seems impossible to get away from this situation, but surely there are options for you to be freed of debt. In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. explores two paths that millions have turned to when traditional methods no longer seem viable: debt management programs and bankruptcy. Listen now to find real hope and empower yourself with knowledge of potential paths forward. https://www.askralphpodcast.com/ 00:00 Episode Overview 00:47 Welcome To Ask To Ralph Podcast 01:15 Show Announcements 01:44 Bible Verse 02:20 What is Debt Management? 02:46 How does Credit Counseling work? 03:48 Pros of Debt Management 04:58 Cons of Debt Management 06:23 Scams To Avoid 07:38 What is bankruptcy? 08:28 Types of Bankruptcy 09:56 Effects of bankruptcy 11:28 When is bankruptcy the right decision? 12:30 Making an informed strategy 13:03 Actionable steps to take 14:07 Outro

Are you weary of feeling burdened by the guilt of past financial mistakes? It's fine to feel this way, but staying with it is a no-no. In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. discusses the heavy burden that many of us bear as a result of financial mistakes, as well as how to break free from this painful cycle. Listen in as Ralph explains how simple everyday behaviors like prayer, preparation, and accountability may help you overcome guilt. Join us as we explore why embracing conviction rather than remaining in guilt may lead to prosperity and liberty. https://www.askralphpodcast.com/ 00:00 Episode Overview 00:20 Welcome To Spiritual Sunday 01:07 Show Announcements 01:40 Bible Verse 02:10 Difference Of Guilt And Conviction 02:33 Learn And Move Forward From Mistakes 03:02 Conviction From The Holy Spirit 03:20 Acknowledge Your Mistakes 03:32 Seek God's Guidance 03:49 Educate Yourself 04:08 Create A Plan 04:29 Take Small Steps 04:59 Episode Recap 05:42 Closing Prayer 06:33 Outro

Are you struggling to balance your business, family, and other commitments? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. and Ral West, a seasoned entrepreneur, talked about the difficulty of handling various duties as an entrepreneur, such as creating boundaries, prioritizing chores, and seeking help from loved ones and mentors. Ral, who has 40 years of experience in business, highlights the significance of delegating, empowering, and developing a supportive corporate culture in order to succeed without sacrificing your well-being or your family. https://www.askralphpodcast.com/ https://www.ralwest.com/ https://www.ralwest.com/secrets 00:00 Episode Overview 00:16 Daily Bible Verse 00:48 Introducing Ral West 01:49 Ral’s Entrepreneurship Journey 04:33 Actions that led to burnout 06:03 Balancing Family And Business 07:36 Ral’s steps to overcome her overwhelming life 10:32 Continual Learning 13:00 Overcome overwhelm 15:14 Biggest Causes Of Overwhelm 18:31 Empowering People 21:37 Exceeding Customer Service Expectations 25:41 How to Hire Good People 27:27 Advice for small businesses 30:00 Ral’s current purpose in life 31:07 Ral’s Life in Alaska

Gaining Clarity, Achieving Your Goals, and Finding Peace: Utilizing the Power of Budgeting | Ask Ralph Podcast Do you find yourself working hard but never making progress toward your finances? How can you take control of your money once and for all? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. goes deep into the 5 main pillars of budgeting—beyond just tracking your expenses. Ralph emphasizes the importance of budgeting in accordance with the word of God to achieve financial abundance. Lastly, learn why intentional budgeting is key to living out your faith through your finances. https://www.askralphpodcast.com/ 00:00 Episode Overview 00:35 Welcome To Ask Ralph Podcast 01:07 Show Announcements 01:59 Daily Bible Verse 02:39 Purpose #1: Gaining Clarity And Control 03:41 Control on Budgeting 04:08 Purpose #2: Aligning Your Money with Your Values 05:15 Purpose #3: Achieving Your Financial Goals 06:24 Purpose #4: Building Financial Security and Peace of Mind 07:39 Purpose #5: Leaving A Legacy Of Generosity. 08:59 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 09:44 Outro

Tired of worrying about potential IRS penalties? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. addresses the most frequent penalties that taxpayers face and how to avoid them with appropriate planning and preparedness. Discover the critical steps to avoiding these penalties while retaining more of your hard-earned money. Ralph also offers helpful advice on how to manage your taxes in advance. Tune up to hear about IRS penalties and how to prevent an unpleasant tax surprise. https://www.askralphpodcast.com/ 00:00 Episode Overview About Common IRS Penalties 00:18 Welcome To Tax Talk Thursday 01:21 Daily Bible Verse 01:54 Failure To File Penalty 03:02 Failure To Pay Penalty 04:14 What Options Do You Have To Pay What You Owe? 05:17 Underpayment Penalty 06:22 Accuracy-Related Penalty

In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. sheds light on the hidden realities behind common jobs. Ralph will reveal little-known facts about various professions, including banking, garbage collection, teaching, and more. Beyond salaries and duties, Ralph uncovers the stress, pressure, and personal sacrifices often required in these fields. He encourages evaluating workplaces objectively and finding roles that nourish the soul. This show provides insightful perspectives for anyone currently employed or exploring new opportunities. 00:00 Introduction and Today's Question 00:20 Welcome Remarks 01:54 Daily Bible Verse 02:09 Eye-Opening Job Truths 02:11 Job #1 - Bank Tellers 02:40 Job #2 - Garbage Collectors 03:15 Job #3 - Teachers 03:56 Job #4 - Flight Attendants 04:42 Job #5 - Veterinarians 05:21 Job #6 - Casino Dealers 05:55 Job #7 - Oil Rig Laborers 06:33 Job #8 - Fast Food Workers 07:11 Job #9 - Portfolio Managers 07:56 Job #10 - Truck Driver 08:34 Job #11 - Retail Workers 09:20 Job #12 - Construction Workers 10:04 Job #13 - Pilots and Flight Crew 10:44 Job #14 - Public Defenders 12:13 Recap 12:35 Ralph’s Call to Action 12:59 Special Announcement

In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. delves into the often misunderstood world of influencers. Ralph discusses the glitz, glamour, and darker sides of being an online influencer. From a Christian standpoint, he offers ideas on how to keep one's religion and beliefs while nevertheless pursuing internet celebrity. Emphasizing the value of prayer, responsibility, and keeping faithful to one's Christ, Ralph provides pragmatic guidance for anybody pursuing this road. 00:00 Introduction and Today's Question 00:19 Welcome Remarks 01:19 The Allure of Becoming an Influencer 02:32 Daily Bible Verse 03:00 The Realities and Challenges of Influencer Life 09:30 Balancing Faith and Fame 09:43 Practical Action Steps for Aspiring Influencers 11:57 Closing Prayer and Recap 12:50 Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. guides managing inherited property after the passing of a loved one. He gives useful tips, emotional support, and spiritual guidance to help listeners deal with this complicated and sometimes stressful situation. The episode emphasizes protecting the property, considering options for the house, and seeking expert advice while gracefully managing emotional and family relationships. 00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgement of Grief 00:58 Welcome Remarks and Today's Topic 03:03 Securing the Property 03:25 Transferring Mortgage and Utilities 04:06 Considering Your Options: Move In, Rent Out, or Sell 05:31 Practical and Emotional Considerations 06:23 Seeking Expert Advice 07:25 Managing Family Relationships and Communication 10:07 Closing Prayer and Encouragement

In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. discusses the concept of pursuing excellence in all aspects of life, particularly in work, relationships, and stewardship, as an offering of worship to God. Ralph shares personal action steps he is taking to reach this level of excellence and provides practical advice for listeners to apply in their own lives. The episode emphasizes the importance of aligning efforts with God's standards and the role of reliance on God's wisdom and grace in achieving true excellence. 00:00 Introduction and Today's Question 00:58 Welcome Remarks 01:23 Exploring Excellence as Worship 02:35 Daily Bible Verse 03:00 Excellence in Work, Relationships, and Stewardship 05:20 Action Steps for Pursuing Excellence 07:06 Closing Prayer and Recap 08:50 Final Thoughts

The Ultimate Podcasting Guide with Hall of Famer Dave Jackson | Ask Ralph Podcast In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. welcomes podcasting legend Dave Jackson, dubbed the 'Dean of Podcasting.' Dave shares his extensive experience from helping people start and grow their podcasts since 2005, including his personal journey in the podcasting industry. The discussion covers essential tips for starting a podcast, the significance of engaging with your audience, monetization strategies, and the practical steps required to launch and maintain a successful show. Dave also touches on the benefits of podcasting for small businesses and the personal insights he's gained from his extensive career, offering valuable advice for both new and experienced podcasters. Packed with real-world examples and actionable insights, this episode provides everything you need to know to kickstart your podcasting journey. http://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/ralph 00:00 Introduction to Dave Jackson 01:22 Why Small Businesses Should Podcast 02:42 Starting the School of Podcasting 04:18 First Steps for New Podcasters 05:30 Creating Engaging Content 09:35 Monetizing Your Podcast 15:00 Choosing a Podcast Host 18:11 Overcoming Podcasting Challenges 21:02 Audio vs. Video Podcasting 21:59 Audio vs. Video: The Ongoing Debate 23:20 Balancing Perfection and Authenticity in Podcasting 24:47 Outsourcing Podcast Production: Time vs. Money 26:03 The Time Commitment of Podcasting 27:44 Leveraging AI Tools in Podcasting 30:05 Opportunities and Success Stories in Podcasting 33:45 The Importance of Passion in Podcasting 36:34 Conclusion and How to Get Started with Podcasting 40:09 Faith and Podcasting: Integrating Beliefs into Your Work

Unpacking Annuities: Scam or Smart Investment? | Ask Ralph Podcast Join Ralph Estep, Jr. on this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast as he delves into the complex world of annuities. With over 30 years of financial expertise, Ralph provides an in-depth look at annuities, discussing their benefits, drawbacks, and whether they are a wise investment for your portfolio. Learn about the pros and cons, the types of annuities, who can benefit the most, and the validity of common criticisms. Don't miss out on this informative session aimed at helping you make informed financial decisions from a Christian perspective. 00:00 Introduction to Annuities: Scam or Smart Investment? 00:20 Welcome to the Ask Ralph Podcast 01:20 Understanding Annuities: Types and Basics 04:34 Benefits of Annuities: Guaranteed Income and More 06:13 Drawbacks of Annuities: High Costs and Complexity 07:27 Who Should Consider Annuities? 08:39 Are Annuities Scams? The Real Truth 09:52 Final Thoughts and Recap 10:50 Closing Remarks and Resources

What to Do When Your Tax Refund Is Smaller Than Expected - Ask Ralph Podcast Join Ralph Estep, Jr. on the Ask Ralph Podcast as he addresses the frustrating experience of receiving a smaller tax refund than expected or owing taxes when you anticipated a refund. Ralph provides practical steps to handle this situation, discusses common causes, and shares an insightful client story. He also introduces the Ask Ralph Facebook insider's group for community support and emphasizes the importance of budgeting and proactive tax planning from a Christian perspective. Don't miss his tips on adjusting your withholdings, making estimated payments, and setting up payment plans to stay ahead. Subscribe to stay updated on future episodes covering various financial topics. 00:00 Introduction: Tax Filing Surprises 00:22 Welcome to Ask Ralph Podcast 01:16 Understanding Tax Refund Discrepancies 02:39 Proactive Steps to Address Tax Issues 02:57 Common Tax Filing Mistakes 03:42 Handling Unexpected Tax Bills 04:44 Adjusting Withholdings and Payments 07:19 Real Client Story: Tax Filing Error 08:25 Recap and Final Advice 09:58 Conclusion and Next Steps

Effective Strategies to Slash Your Grocery Bill | AskRalph Podcast In this episode of the AskRalph Podcast, Ralph Estep, Jr. shares practical tips for reducing grocery expenses without compromising on nutrition or taste. Drawing from his extensive financial expertise, Ralph provides six easy ways to save money on groceries, including creating a shopping list, opting for store brands, understanding unit pricing, selective bulk buying, shopping seasonally, and cooking at home. The episode also features valuable advice from listeners in the podcast's Facebook insider group. Tune in for actionable strategies and a Christian perspective on wise financial stewardship. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:25 Welcome to the Ask Ralph Podcast 02:19 Today's Topic: Saving Money on Groceries 03:34 Tip 1: Make a List and Stick to It 05:11 Tip 2: Buy Store Brands 06:28 Tip 3: Check Unit Pricing 08:00 Tip 4: Buy in Bulk Selectively 09:34 Tip 5: Shop Seasonally 11:16 Tip 6: Cook at Home More 12:15 Listener Tips and Feedback 16:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Digital Decluttering Tips: Simplify Your Online Life | Ask Ralph Podcast Do you feel overwhelmed by digital clutter? In today's episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, seasoned financial expert Ralph Estep, Jr. shares practical tips for decluttering your digital space. Learn how to delete unused apps, unsubscribe from unnecessary email lists, organize files, and manage social media use, all from a Christian perspective. Ralph also includes personal experiences and Bible insights to help guide you towards a more organized and focused digital life. Tune in for technology tips, financial wisdom, and daily life hacks! 00:00 Introduction: Tackling Digital Clutter 00:22 Welcome to Ask Ralph Podcast 01:21 Upcoming Topics and Community Engagement 02:09 The Digital Clutter Crisis 03:41 Steps to Declutter Your Digital Life 05:14 Practical Tips for Digital Decluttering 08:05 Listener's Story: A Doctor's Digital Makeover 09:36 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 10:48 Closing Remarks and Disclaimers

5 Financial Traps to Avoid in Retirement | Ask Ralph Podcast In today's episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep, Jr. explores the critical financial pitfalls that can derail your retirement and how to avoid them. From splurging on travel and supporting adult children to carrying debt and engaging in unhealthy relationships, Ralph offers practical strategies rooted in his 30 years of financial expertise and a Christian perspective. Stay tuned as he uncovers these common bad money habits and shares tips on maintaining wise financial stewardship in your golden years. Don't forget to subscribe and join our Facebook insiders' group to continue the conversation! 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:20 Welcome to the Ask Ralph Podcast 00:52 Motivational Monday and Show Announcements 01:15 The Importance of Avoiding Bad Money Habits 03:32 Bad Habit #1: Splurging on Travel 04:48 Bad Habit #2: Supporting Adult Children 06:25 Bad Habit #3: Carrying Debt into Retirement 08:33 Bad Habit #4: Supporting Unhealthy Adult Relationships 10:46 Bad Habit #5: Compulsive Shopping 13:08 Recap and Final Thoughts