Videos

Are you considering converting your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA? It can be a savvy move, especially if you expect a higher tax bracket in the future. Although you'll pay taxes on the conversion now, your money grows tax-free in a Roth IRA, and qualified distributions in retirement are…

We are called to be compassionate, to show mercy, and to offer a helping hand to those in need, including those struggling financially. While numbers matter and AI often makes accurate decisions, without human connection, we miss opportunities to help those willing to work hard and honor their finances. AI…

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.…

Supporters of AI in lending argue it can eliminate human bias, making the process faster, cheaper, and more objective. In a world grappling with prejudice and discrimination, purely data-driven systems can be alluring. However, as with any new technology, there are potential downsides. As Christians, we have a crucial role…

Despite the data's suggestion, we approved their loan, and they never missed a payment. They turned their financial life around, built their dream home, and became some of our most valued members. Would an algorithm have made that same decision, seen past the numbers, and recognized their growth potential? That's…

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…

Smartphones can be detrimental to our children's development, impacting their attention spans and sleeping patterns and fostering a strong addiction. But there is hope! By setting limits, encouraging non-screen activities, being good role models, and having open conversations, we can help our kids develop a healthy relationship with technology. It's…

Here are a few practical steps you can take to combat the strong pull of screen addiction. First, set limits: establish clear rules about smartphone use, including time limits and device-free zones like the dinner table. Second, encourage other activities: get your kids involved in screen-free fun like playing outside,…

Remember when we could watch an entire movie without reaching for our phones? Today's kids are growing up with instant gratification and constant stimulation. My youngest juggles his phone, Switch, and YouTube all at once! It's no wonder focusing on tasks like reading, studying, or even simple conversations is so…

Remember, no matter how difficult your financial situation may seem, there is always hope. God is faithful, and He will never leave us nor forsake us. Here are a few actionable steps you can take today. First, assess your situation: closely examine your income, expenses, and debts. Create a budget…

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…

Debt management offers several key benefits: reduced interest rates, which save money and help you pay off debt faster; simplified payments by consolidating debts into a single monthly payment; and some credit score protection, despite a slight initial dip. #DebtManagement #FinancialFreedom #LowerInterestRates #SimplifiedPayments #CreditScoreProtection

The debt relief industry is rife with scams. Here are some red flags to watch out for. First, upfront fees: legitimate credit counseling agencies are prohibited from charging large upfront fees before providing services. If you encounter an agency that says your first several payments will go to them to…

There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. God doesn't want us to dwell in guilt. Instead, He allows us to learn from our mistakes and confidently move forward. Conviction comes from the Holy Spirit and leads us to repentance and transformation. It's about recognizing where we've…

Guilt is feeling remorse over something we've done wrong, often leading to shame. Conviction, on the other hand, is a profound awareness of our shortcomings, coupled with the motivation to change and improve. Our guilt over financial missteps can be debilitating. By acknowledging our mistakes and actively seeking ways to…

There is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. God wants us to learn from our mistakes and move forward with conviction from the Holy Spirit, leading to repentance and transformation. Change doesn't happen overnight. Start with small steps and gradually build on them. Surround yourself with a supportive community…

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…

In life, focusing on specific areas is key, rather than spreading ourselves too thin. This is where the art of delegation comes in. It's not just about passing on tasks, but about providing clear instructions and expectations, ensuring the person knows exactly what to do and how to do it.…

Mistakes are a part of life, whether they're our fault or not. What's important is finding a resolution that benefits all parties involved. This involves using efficient methods, taking responsibility for our actions, and making necessary fixes. Ensuring that vendors or others involved also take responsibility is equally vital. Ultimately,…

Ral refuses to retire despite retirement age and is passionate about continuous learning and growth. She created a dream life with two homes and a yacht at their place in Sitka, Alaska. Her friends often say, "You guys are living the dream." She maintains the lifestyle she cherishes without compromise…

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…

Budgeting is a roadmap to your financial goals, breaking down large aspirations into manageable steps. Tracking your progress and making necessary adjustments keeps you motivated and on course. On my show, budget is not about deprivation but prioritization. It's about making thoughtful choices today to pave the way for financial…

Budgeting grants you control over your finances, transforming you from a reactive spender to a proactive planner. By making deliberate choices about your resource allocation, you set yourself up to achieve your financial goals. It has given me unprecedented clarity and vision. Moreover, aligning your money with your values, particularly…

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,…