Podcast Episode 35: The College Funding Challenge

by Financial Design Studio, Inc. / January 22, 2024

There have been some major changes when it comes to college funding. So in this episode we discuss what parents and grandparents need to know about the total cost, to reducing that cost with the updated FAFSA, and how to save up with the 529 college savings plans.

Wealth Management Financial Advisors in Chicago on the College funding challenge and updated fafsa
Guest : Rob Stoll, CFP®, CFA; Michelle Smalenberger, CFP®

Behind the Designs Ep. 35: The College Funding Challenge

Take a listen right here, or head over to your favorite steaming platform!

Key Moments

3:04 What is the cost of college?

9:29 How can you reduce the cost of college?

14:07 What do you need to know about the updated FAFSA?

28:10 How useful are 529 College Saving Plans?

37:47 What about other investment accounts or strategies?

43:48 How can grandparents use 529 plans?

Links for the College Funding Challenge

Wondering if parents even should fund their kids education? Take a listen to episode 22!

Learn more about time horizons for you investment goals!

Stay Connected!

If you want to hear even more episodes, like this one, be sure to subscribe to the Behind the Designs podcast on your favorite streaming platform! The Behind the Designs podcast shares with you an inside perspective at how financial advisors think about certain topics. We’ll see you in the next episode.

Credits for Episode 35

Executive Producer : Anna Lewis

Host : Michelle Smalenberger, CFP®

Guest : Rob Stoll, CFP®, CFA

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Financial Design Studio, Inc.

We are financial advisors in Deer Park and Barrington, IL. A team with a passion for helping others design a path to financial success — whatever success means for you. Each of our unique insights fit together to create broad expertise, complete roadmaps, and creative solutions. We have seen the power of having a financial plan, and adjusting that plan to life. The result? Freedom from worrying about the future so you can enjoy today.