Live weekdays at 11:30 AM ET
Becoming Financially Confident

Episodes

222
Aug. 9, 2024

What is meant by the social security earnings cap and how does that affect my future benefits?

Are you curious about why your Social Security benefits might be less than expected? Wondering how the Social Security earnings cap could impact your future? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he explains the Social Security earnings cap and its effects. What Is Meant By The Social Security Earnings Cap and How Does That Affect My Future Benefits? With Ralph Estep, Jr. In this episode, Ralph addresses a listener's question about the earnings cap, discussing ...
221
Aug. 8, 2024

What is the tax impact of gifting someone stock?

Are you considering gifting stocks to a loved one but worried about the tax implications? Want to share your financial blessings while being a good steward of your resources? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he explores the tax impacts of gifting stocks and ways to minimize them. What Is The Tax Impact of Gifting Someone Stock? With Ralph Estep, Jr. In this episode, Ralph addresses a listener's question about gifting stocks to help with education expenses ...
220
Aug. 7, 2024

How do I rebuild my credit after a financial crisis?

Are you struggling to rebuild your credit after a financial crisis? Feeling overwhelmed by debt and looking for guidance? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he discusses strategies for rebuilding credit after a financial setback. How Do I Rebuild My Credit After A Financial Crisis? With Ralph Estep, Jr. In this episode, Ralph delves into both conventional methods, like checking your credit report and making timely payments, and unconventional methods, such a...
219
Aug. 6, 2024

How do I set healthy boundaries with social media from a Godly Perspective?

Are you struggling to balance your social media use with your responsibilities and faith? Feeling overwhelmed by the digital distractions and looking for guidance from a Christian perspective? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he discusses strategies for setting healthy boundaries with social media. How Do I Set Healthy Boundaries With Social Media From A Godly Perspective? With Ralph Estep, Jr. In this episode, Ralph delves into practical steps for using s...
218
Aug. 5, 2024

How am I going to pay for the childrens college education?

Are you worried about how to fund your children's college education? Feeling overwhelmed by the financial burden and looking for guidance from a Christian perspective? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he introduces various strategies for easing the cost of college. How Am I Going to Pay for The Children's College Education? With Ralph Estep, Jr. In this episode, Ralph delves into a range of options—from traditional methods like filling out the FAFSA and se...
217
Aug. 4, 2024

How do I respond to financial trials and uncertainty by using my faith?

Feeling overwhelmed by financial trials and looking for a way to find peace and spiritual growth? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he explores how to use faith to navigate financial hardships and blessings. How Do I Respond To Financial Trials and Uncertainty by Using My Faith? With Ralph Estep, Jr. In this episode, Ralph addresses the anxiety of mounting bills and the challenge of maintaining faith amidst financial uncertainty. Through personal anecdotes ...
216
Aug. 3, 2024

Is it possible to estimate my future social security benefits?

Are you uncertain about your future Social Security benefits and how to plan for a financially secure retirement? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he guides you through estimating your Social Security benefits and crafting a retirement plan rooted in biblical stewardship. Is It Possible to Estimate My Future Social Security Benefits? With Ralph Estep, Jr. In this episode, Ralph explores the tools provided by the Social Security Administration to estimate yo...
215
Aug. 2, 2024

How can I use financial “fasting” to grow closer to God?

Are your finances causing stress and affecting your relationship with God? Feeling overwhelmed by materialism and looking for a way to find peace and spiritual growth? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he introduces the concept of “Financial Fasting.” How Can I Use Financial “Fasting” to Grow Closer to God? With Ralph Estep, Jr. In this episode, Ralph delves into how Financial Fasting—intentionally cutting back on spending to focus on spiritual growth—can h...
214
Aug. 1, 2024

How do I handle getting audited by the IRS?

Are you dreading the thought of an IRS audit? Feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he tackles the nerve-wracking topic of IRS audits head-on. How Do I Handle Getting Audited by the IRS? With Ralph Estep, Jr. In this episode of The Ask Ralph Show, Ralph Estep Jr. discusses how to handle an IRS audit. He provides key advice, stating that listeners should not panic, as an audit does not automatically mean they have do...
213
July 31, 2024

What are seven financial perks of maintaining great credit?

Are you tired of feeling stuck in a financial rut, unable to improve your credit score no matter what you do? Discover the hidden power of great credit and how it can transform your financial life, opening doors and saving you thousands of dollars. Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he talks about the power of great credit and how it can transform one's financial life. What Are Seven FInancial Perks of Maintaining Great Credit? With Ralph Estep, Jr. In this ...
212
July 30, 2024

How can I protect myself from identity theft online?

Are you concerned about the safety of your personal information online? Do you want to learn how to protect your digital identity while honoring your faith? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he provides practical advice and biblical wisdom on online security and how to protect yourself from identity theft online. How Can Christians Protect Their Online Identity? with Ralph Estep Jr. In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. talks abo...
211
July 29, 2024

Should you get a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit?

When considering tapping into your home equity, have you ever felt unsure whether to opt for a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC)? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he discusses the key differences between these two options and helps you decide which is best for your financial needs. Should You Choose a Home Equity Loan or HELOC? with Ralph Estep Jr. In this episode, Ralph explores the financial and emotional aspects of choosing betwee...
210
July 28, 2024

How do I manage poverty, wealth, and material needs with a heavenly mindset?

Are you struggling to balance your financial needs with your spiritual life? Are you wondering how to manage wealth or poverty while keeping your eyes on heaven? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he dives into this crucial topic. Managing Wealth and Faith with a heavenly mindset: Is It Wrong for Christians to Be Wealthy? with Ralph Estep Jr. In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. addresses a critical question: Is it wrong for a Chris...
209
July 27, 2024

How do I get started walking for fitness – a great interview with David Paul and his daily podcast “Walking is Fitness”

Do you feel like you're stuck in a fitness rut or struggling to find a cost-effective way to stay healthy? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he discusses the multifaceted benefits of walking with podcaster David Paul. Can Walking Improve Both Your Health and Finances? with Ralph Estep Jr. and Dave Paul. Walking is fitness as demonstrated in this great interview! In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. chats with Dave Paul from the "Wa...
Guest: Dave Paul
208
July 26, 2024

What are the 401K beneficiary rules I need to know and make sure I am aware of when managing my retirement accounts?

Understanding 401Ks and retirement accounts can be really confusing. Are you sure your savings will go to your loved ones? What steps do you need to take to make sure your family is taken care of? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he discusses rules for 401K and retirement account beneficiaries.What Are the 401k Beneficiary Rules I Need to Know and Make Sure I Am Aware of When Managing My Retirement Account? With Ralph Estep, Jr. In this episode of The Ask R...
207
July 25, 2024

How do I reduce my taxes when I take money from my 401K or other retirement account?

Feeling stressed about the taxes on your 401K withdrawals and their effect on your retirement? Listen to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he shares tips to lower taxes on your retirement withdrawals. How do I reduce my taxes when I take money from my 401K or other retirement account? with Ralph Estep Jr. How Can I Lower My Taxes When Withdrawing from My 401K? with Ralph Estep Jr. In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. answers a listener's q...
206
July 24, 2024

How do I make sure I’m not filing a false tax return with the IRS?

Do you ever find yourself torn between taking easy shortcuts and staying honest when filing taxes? Listen to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he shares tips on filing taxes truthfully and steering clear of IRS issues. How to not file a false return and File Taxes Honestly and Avoid IRS Trouble? with Ralph Estep Jr. In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. dives into the world of taxes. He shares how to file taxes honestly and ethically while ste...
205
July 23, 2024

What are some faith-based investing principles and tools I can use to grow my investments and maintain my faith?

Have you ever wondered if you can grow your investments while staying true to your Christian faith? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he discusses faith-based investing principles and tools to help you align your financial decisions with your beliefs.What are some faith-based investing principles and tools I can use to grow my investments and maintain my faith? with Ralph Estep Jr. In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. addresses the...
204
July 22, 2024

How do I repair my bad credit?

Is a bad credit score dragging you down and making it hard to reach your financial goals? Fixing bad credit might seem tough, but it doesn't have to be. Tune into Ralph Estep, Jr. on the Ask Ralph Podcast for clear steps to improve your credit, all while keeping faith at the forefront. How Do I Repair My Bad Credit? With Ralph Estep Jr. In this show, Ralph breaks down essential steps for repairing bad credit, from understanding your credit report to disputing errors and creating a budget. Whethe...
203
July 21, 2024

What does biblical tithing actually mean and how do I develop a giving plan based on biblical principles?

Have you ever wondered if you're giving enough to your church? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he discusses the biblical principles of tithing and how to develop a giving plan that aligns with your faith and financial goals. What Does Biblical Tithing Actually Mean? with Ralph Estep Jr. Today, Ralph talks about the principles of biblical tithing and how to develop a giving plan that aligns with your faith and financial goals. He addresses common concerns ...
202
July 20, 2024

What are the 8 types of homeowners insurance and which should I have for my home?

Are you confused about which homeowners insurance is best for your home? Tune in to this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast with Ralph Estep Jr. as he explains the eight different types of homeowners insurance you need to know about. What are the 8 Types of Homeowners Insurance You Need? | Ask Ralph Podcast In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. dives into the critical topic of homeowners insurance. With eight different types to consider, Ralph explains each one, helping yo...
201
July 19, 2024

Is it better to rent or buy a home? How do I decide what’s best for me?

Are you losing sleep over the age-old question: should you rent or buy a home? Imagine the pressure of everyone telling you homeownership is the key to financial security and the American Dream. But with soaring interest rates and skyrocketing costs, is it all it's cracked up to be? What if tying yourself down to one place isn't the right move for you right now? Listen to Ralph Estep, Jr. on the Ask Ralph Podcast as he clarifies the complex decision that overwhelms many about buying or renting a...
200
July 18, 2024

What is the Secure Act 2.0 and how does this affect my retirement?

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of retirement planning? Does mentioning new legislation like the SECURE Act 2.0 make your head spin? In a world where financial security seems increasingly elusive, many of us are left wondering how to prepare for a comfortable retirement when I'm struggling to keep up with today's expenses. Listen to Ralph Estep, Jr. on the Ask Ralph Podcast as he discusses the Secure Act 2.0 and its impact on retirees and small business owners. What is the Secure...
199
July 17, 2024

My credit score has dropped below 700, what do I need to stop doing right away to improve my credit score?

Are you frustrated by unexpected drops in your credit score? Do you feel like you're doing everything right, yet your score still takes a hit? Many people struggle with maintaining a good credit score, even when they think they follow all the rules. Imagine checking your credit score one day only to find it has plummeted below 700 points for no apparent reason. It's a shock that can leave you feeling helpless and confused. Listen to Ralph Estep, Jr. on the Ask Ralph Podcast as he explains the ke...