GDS Unplugged Podcast

Trending or Trapped? The Truth Behind Viral Financial Advice [Ep. 18]

About This Episode 
In this episode, Robert and Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) professional, Sebastian Carrillo take aim at the growing wave of financial advice spreading through social media, the kind that promises quick wins, viral stock tips, or “secret” strategies the pros don’t want you to know. 
From meme stocks and crypto hype to AI investing tools and private equity ads, Robert and Sebastian unpack what’s really happening behind the scenes, and how everyday investors can avoid getting caught up in the noise. 
Their advice is simple: don’t chase trends, chase truth. Real wealth isn’t built through hashtags or hype; it’s built on patience, discipline, and timeless fundamentals. 
Keep Learning & Stay Connected 
To learn more, read our blog on 4 Costly Mistakes D.I.Y. Investors Can Make and How to Avoid Them.  
Subscribe to GDS Unplugged on your favorite platform. 
Send questions for the show to gds@gdswealth.com. 
Explore more in our Learning Center and past episodes of the podcast. 
Disclosesure  
GDS Wealth Management (“GDS”) is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as tax, legal, accounting, or investment advice, nor as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any security or strategy. Information is believed to be reliable but may change without notice. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure profit or protect against loss. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Mentions of companies, products, or individuals are illustrative only and not endorsements; no compensation was received. Certain investments, such as private offerings, may involve unique risks and are limited to accredited or qualified investors. For more information about our services, fees, and disclosures, please visit www.gdswealth.com or review adviser records at FINRA BrokerCheck and the SEC Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) website.

Beyond the S&P 500: Why Index Funds Aren’t Always the Answer [Ep. 17]

About This Episode 
Many investors default to a single broad index fund, often the S&P 500, because it’s simple and low-cost. In this episode, Glen and Robert discuss how that approach can work for certain types of investors and when it may not align with specific objectives or risk profiles.  
They also dive into ETFs vs. mutual funds, explore diversification across asset classes and regions, explain bond mechanics and duration, and walk through tax-loss harvesting and mutual fund capital-gain distributions in practical, plain language. 
 
Keep Learning & Stay Connected 
Want to see how GDS works? Watch The GDS Experience. 
To learn more, watch our podcast on 4 Top Investor Questions Explained.  
Subscribe to GDS Unplugged on your favorite platform. 
Send questions for the show to gds@gdswealth.com. 
Explore more in our Learning Center and past episodes of the podcast. 
 
Disclosure: 
GDS Wealth Management (“GDS”) is an investment adviser registered with the SEC. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended as tax, legal, or investment advice. Information is believed to be reliable but may change without notice. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance or government adjustments are not indicative of future results. Indexes are unmanaged and cannot be invested in directly. For more information about our services, fees, and disclosures, please visit www.gdswealth.com.

401(k) Contributions and How Much is Right For You? [Ep. 16]

About This Episode 
If you’ve ever wondered “How do 401(k)s really work? Should I use the Roth option? How much should I contribute, and when?” this conversation breaks it down. Glen and Robert walk through traditional vs. Roth 401(k)s, company matches, “true-up” rules, catch-up contributions in your 50s and early 60s, required minimum distributions (RMDs), and how employee stock purchase plans (ESPPs) fit into a broader plan. The aim isn’t to provide a one-size-fits-all formula; it’s to help you understand how informed financial choices today may support your long-term goals. 
 
Keep Learning & Stay Connected 
Want to see how GDS works? Watch The GDS Experience. 
To learn more, watch our podcast on What Your 401(k) Really Costs.  
Subscribe to GDS Unplugged on your favorite platform. 
Send questions for the show to gds@gdswealth.com. 
Explore more in our Learning Center and past episodes of the podcast. 
Disclosure:
GDS Wealth Management is a registered investment adviser with the SEC. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment, tax, or legal advice. Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. 401(k) and employer plan rules vary, please consult your plan documents, HR department, or a qualified professional for details specific to your situation. For more information on services, fees, and disclosures, visit www.gdswealth.com.

Love Starts with a Choice: Lessons from Gary Chapman [Ep. 15]

About This Episode 
Dr. Gary Chapman, best‑selling author of The 5 Love Languages®, joins host Glen Smith to share practical ways couples, parents, and teams can feel more connected. From the 0–10 check‑in to learning a language that doesn’t come naturally, you’ll hear simple, repeatable habits you can start this week. We also explore how these ideas lower stress around money and decisions at home. 
Keep Learning & Stay Connected 
Take the Love Languages quiz together and compare results. 
Try the 0–10 check‑in for three cycles and note what changes. 
Subscribe to GDS Unplugged on your favorite platform. 
Send questions for the show: gds@gdswealth.com. 
Explore more conversations in our Learning Center and past episodes of the podcast. 
Disclosure: 
GDS Wealth Management (“GDS”) is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Dr. Gary Chapman was compensated for his appearance and is not a client of GDS. His participation does not represent a testimonial or endorsement of GDS or its services. This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment advice. All investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Mentions of books, products, or third-party services are for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsements. For important information about services, fees, and disclosures, visit gdswealth.com. 

4 Top Investor Questions Explained [Ep. 14]

About This Episode
If you’ve ever opened a statement and wondered, “Am I taking the right amount of risk? Are my returns on track? Should I own funds or individual stocks? Would two advisers protect me more?”—this one’s for you. Glen and Robert unpack the four questions they’re asked most often and share practical frameworks you can consider and discuss with an adviser. The goal isn’t a one size fits all portfolio; it’s to show you how to connect what you want with what you own, and how to keep taxes and timing from creating unintended challenges.  
Why This Conversation Matters 
Most investing mistakes aren’t dramatic, they’re subtle. A little too much risk in the money you’ll need soon. Expectations based on unusually strong years instead of the next ten. A fund that quietly distributes taxes after a down market. Or two advisers inadvertently creating a wash sale that disallows your tax loss. Small frictions compound. A clear plan, and a few practical steps, can help keep your plan aligned with your goals. 
Keep Learning & Stay Connected 
Want to learn more about working with GDS? Watch The GDS Experience 
Subscribe to GDS Unplugged on your favorite platform. 
Send questions for the show to gds@gdswealth.com. 
Explore more articles in our Learning Center and past episodes of the podcast. 
Disclosure
This content is informational and educational purposes only. They are not individualized investment, legal, or tax advice, and do not represent an offer to buy or sell any security. All investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal, and past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The views expressed are those of the hosts and may change without notice. Glen Smith and Robert Casey are investment adviser representatives of GDS Wealth Management, LLC, a registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply any specific level of skill or training. Visit https://www.gdswealth.com for information on our services, fees, and disclosures. References to mutual funds, ETFs, stocks, or other securities are for illustration only and should not be considered recommendations. ETF and mutual fund structures vary and may distribute capital gains; investors may still owe taxes. Tax-loss harvesting and wash-sale rules are complex—consult a qualified tax professional for guidance on your situation. Any case studies or client scenarios are hypothetical or for illustration only and do not guarantee future results; individual circumstances vary. Mentions of third-party speakers, companies, or products are not endorsements, and no compensation is received/paid unless expressly stated. Portfolio allocations or models discussed are examples only and may not be appropriate for all investors. References to asset class “historical performance” may reflect broad indexes, which are unmanaged and not directly investable. Discussion of multiple advisers highlights coordination and tax considerations; it is not a recommendation to hire or dismiss any adviser. This content may include references or links to third-party resources, and GDS Wealth Management is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of third-party information. 

What Your 401(k) Really Costs [Ep. 13]

About this Episode 
Most retirement savers know their 401(k) is their biggest account. What many don’t realize is just how many rules, fees, and strategies surround these plans, and how costly missteps can be. 
On this episode of GDS Unplugged, adviser Tim Allin, CFP®, CEPA®, shared insights on everything from early withdrawal provisions to the much-talked-about “Mega Backdoor Roth.” Below are the highlights. 
 
Resources: 
Ready to take your learning to the next step? 
Connect with Glen Smith and Robert Casey on LinkedIn. 
Check out our blog on saving for retirement. 
Subscribe to our YouTube channel. 
Contact GDS Wealth Management for a complimentary financial consultation. 
 
Why Listen? 
This episode is filled with practical insights that can help you uncover the often-overlooked costs, rules, and opportunities within your 401(k). 
From hidden fees and Required Minimum Distributions to early withdrawal strategies, target-date fund pitfalls, and advanced approaches like the Mega Backdoor Roth, adviser Tim Allin and Glen Smith cover it all. 
Tune in to explore ways to better understand retirement strategies, avoid common pitfalls, and align your plan with your long-term goals. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about taking steps to better understand and prepare for your financial future.  
 
Disclosures:
GDS Wealth Management (“GDS”) is an SEC-registered investment adviser; registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. This content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not investment, legal, accounting, or tax advice, nor a recommendation to buy or sell any security or strategy. All investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Glen Smith and Tim Allin are registered with GDS Wealth Management; the views they express are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of GDS or its clients. Retirement and tax are complex, can change over time, and vary by plan. Be sure to review current limits and rules carefully and consult with a qualified adviser and CPA/attorney before making decisions. Mentions of third-party providers are for illustration only and not endorsements; GDS does not guarantee their services. Any forward-looking statements are subject to change and are not guarantees. For more information about services, fees, and disclosures, visit www.gdswealth.com.

Adviser Theft: More Common Than You Think [Ep. 12]

About This Episode 
In this episode of GDS Unplugged, Glen Smith and Robert Casey open a candid conversation most investors rarely hear in plain English: how to protect yourself from adviser fraud, from the subtle red flags to the urgent steps to take if you suspect something’s wrong. 
It’s a practical, no‑nonsense guide grounded in decades of experience and recent real‑world headlines. The goal isn’t to make you fearful; it’s to make you prepared.
 
Resources 
Verify an adviser: • FINRA BrokerCheck — brokercheck.finra.org • SEC Adviser Search — adviserinfo.sec.gov 
Keep learning: • Connect with Glen Smith and Robert Casey on LinkedIn. • Listen to more episodes of GDS Unplugged for practical financial insights. • Learn more about planning strategies on our blog page. • Questions: leave us a comment on YouTube or send yours to gds@gdswealth.com. 
 
Why Listen? 
This episode aims to replace fear with a checklist, hype with healthy skepticism, and jargon with clarity, so you can spot trouble early, ask better questions, and keep your wealth plan on track. 
Because in personal finance, simple, transparent, and verifiable beats slick, secret, and “too steady” every time. 
 
Disclosures:
GDS Wealth Management (“GDS”) is an SEC‑registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute investment, legal, or tax advice, nor a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Examples of independent custodians include Raymond James, Charles Schwab, and Fidelity Investments. GDS Wealth Management does not endorse any specific provider Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Advisory services are provided only where GDS and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt. For additional information about our services, fees, and disclosures, please visit https://www.gdswealth.com/disclosures. 

Retirement Mistakes to Avoid [Ep. 11]

About This Episode 
In this episode of GDS Unplugged, Glen Smith and Robert Casey dive deep into one of the most critical topics in personal finance: the biggest retirement mistakes people make, and how to avoid them. With over two decades of experience guiding clients through retirement planning, they share real-life stories, expert insights, and practical advice for both DIY investors and those considering professional support. 
Whether you're nearing retirement or just starting to think about it, this episode offers a candid look at what can go wrong, and how to better prepare for the future.  
 
Resources 
Ready to take your learning to the next step ? 
Connect with Glen Smith and Robert Casey on LinkedIn.  
Listen to more episodes of GDS Unplugged for practical financial insights. 
Learn more about retirement planning strategies. 
Contact GDS Wealth Management for a complimentary financial consultation.   
Submit your questions to Glen and Robert’s GDS Unplugged mailbag by emailing gds@gdswealth.com.  
 
Why Listen? 
This episode is packed with real-world wisdom and practical advice. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, Glen and Robert offer a grounded perspective on how to protect your retirement and your peace of mind. 
Because when it comes to retirement, simple is smart. And smart is secure. 
 
Disclosure
GDS Wealth Management (“GDS”) is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Advisory services are offered where GDS and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt. This podcast and blog are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment, legal, or tax advice. All investments involve risk, including possible loss of principal. The views expressed are those of the speakers as of the recording date and may change without notice. References to market performance or investment outcomes are hypothetical and illustrative and do not guarantee future results. Mentions of public figures are for illustrative purposes only and do not imply endorsement. Any client stories or examples shared are for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute testimonials or endorsements. No compensation was provided, and individual experiences may not reflect typical outcomes. Awards and professional designations reflect past achievements and do not guarantee future performance. For more information about services, fees, and disclosures, visit: https://www.gdswealth.com. 
 

Real Estate vs. Stock Market: What Makes More Money? [Ep. 10]

About This Episode
In this episode of GDS Unplugged, Glen and Robert tackle a frequently asked question in personal finance: Which investment strategy makes more money, real estate or stocks? With decades of experience and a practical approach to financial planning, they break down the pros, cons, and nuances of each investment type. 
  
If you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this episode offers a balanced perspective and insights into how you can align your investment choices with your financial goals, risk tolerance, and lifestyle. 
Resources 
Ready to take your learning to the next step ? 
Connect with Glen Smith and Robert Casey on LinkedIn.  
Click here to read more helpful information about the stock market. 
Contact GDS Wealth Management for a complimentary financial consultation.   
Submit your questions to Glen and Robert’s GDS Unplugged mailbag by emailing gds@gdswealth.com.  
Why Listen? 
This episode is full of practical advice and real-world insights to help you choose the right investment strategy. Glen and Robert discuss both the emotional and financial aspects of investing, sharing guidance on ways to keep your approach practical and straightforward.  
  
If you're weighing your options or refining your portfolio, this episode aims to help you make informed decisions and get you closer to reaching your financial goals. 
Disclosure:   
GDS Wealth Management (“GDS”) is an investment adviser registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. The content of this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment advice or a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any specific securities, real estate, or investment products. References to individuals, companies, services, products, or strategies are illustrative and not endorsements or recommendations. Examples, testimonials, and performance data are for illustrative purposes only, not guaranteed, and may not reflect typical results. All investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit or protect against loss. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Readers should consult a qualified financial, tax, or legal professional regarding their specific situation before making investment decisions. For additional information, including services, fees, material risks, and disclosures, please visit https://www.gdswealth.com/.

Risks of D.I.Y. Financial Planning [Ep. 9]

About This Episode 
In this episode of GDS Unplugged, Glen and Robert dive into the world of do-it-yourself (D.I.Y.) financial planning. While managing your own investments can be empowering, it also comes with significant risks. From emotional decision-making to tax missteps and sector bias, this episode unpacks the common challenges that can derail even the most well-intentioned D.I.Y. investor. 
If you're a seasoned self-manager or just considering taking the reins, this episode offers valuable insights and considers when might be a good time to partner with a professional. 
Resources 
Ready to take your learning to the next step?   
Connect with Glen Smith and Robert Casey on LinkedIn.   
Check out our blog on Strategic vs. Tactical Investing. 
Subscribe to our YouTube channel.   
Contact GDS Wealth Management for a complimentary financial consultation.   
Submit your questions to Glen and Robert, GDS Unplugged mailbag by emailing gds@gdswealth.com.   
 
Why Listen? 
This episode is a must-listen for anyone managing their own investments or considering it. Glen and Robert break down the emotional, strategic, and tax-related challenges of D.I.Y. investing, and explain how a professional adviser can help you avoid costly mistakes. Tune in to learn how to protect your portfolio, your time, and your future. 
 
Disclosure: 
GDS Wealth Management (“GDS”) is an investment adviser registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. The information provided in this blog and podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any specific securities. All investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. The examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and do not reflect actual client experiences or outcomes. Tax information provided is general in nature and should not be construed as tax or legal advice.  For additional information about our advisory services, fees, and disclosures, please visit  www.gdswealth.com.