Connected by Community

After starting her basketball career in 8th grade, Marie Marquez never looked back. Marie went on to play basketball in college, went pro, coached for the Junior NBA, and now owns her own sports and training gym, Amplify Sports. Marie coached Junior NBA basketball in China, India, and Asia, before returning home and deciding to stay and open her own gym to help people in her community. Amplify Sports offers training, leagues, and camps for children, teens, and adults, with their athletes ranging from 7 years old to 74 years old. Tune in to learn more about Marie's journey that led her to Amplify Sports, as well as how their training leaves people feeling better about themselves. Amplify Sports Marie Marquez amplifysportssc.com

Do you have a Long-Term Care plan in place? If you don't, it might be time to start thinking about it. Today we are joined by Bryan Ballentine, CFP®, CRPC™ and Anthony Colancecco, CFP®, CRPC™, wealth advisors with Ballentine Capital Advisors on why you shouldn't wait until you need Long-Term Care to start planning for it. They talk about common reasons some people do not plan for Long-Term Care such as the cost, unpleasant feelings associated with it, and not wanting to give up control of their life. Bryan and Anthony also talk about the average cost of Long-Term care in our community, and what insurance can help cover. Tune in to learn more about how you could be at risk if you do not have a plan in place, and how Bryan and Anthony can help you better plan for your future. Ballentine Capital Advisors Bryan Ballentine, CFP®, CRPC™ and Anthony Colancecco, CFP®, CRPC™

Today, we welcome back Scott Crawford with UNDUE Medical Debt (previously known as RIP Medical Debt). UNDUE Medical Debt has worked to retire over $12 billion worth of medical debt for families across the United States. This year, Scott Crawford is teaming up with the Upstate, SC Community, and Savannah, GA community to retire medical debt. Scott aims to raise $48,000, which will relieve around $8.5 million of medical debt for almost 8,000 families. 100% of what you donate goes to retiring debt, and just $1 has the power to wipe out nearly $100 medical debt. Ballentine Capital Advisors, the sponsor of the Connected by Community podcast, has decided to partner up with UNDUE Medical Debt for the second year in a row! Ballentine Capital Advisors is aiming to raise $4,000 to help eliminate medical debt for families in the communities of Upstate, SC, as well as Savannah, GA. Ballentine Capital Advisors will kick off this fundraiser by donating $1,000! Use the link below to donate to their campaign and help them reach their $4,000 goal, which will get Scott closer to his $48,000 goal. https://www.unduemedicaldebt.org/campaign/ballentinecapitaladvisors-62400/

If you were given $500 for a school project and told to make a successful product with it, could you? Today we are joined by Ryan Frazier Co-Founder of Kanga Coolers, who did exactly that! Kanga Coolers was started as a Clemson University class project, but has since turned into a widely successful brand, which has many product lines that have been featured on Shark Tank and MrBeast. Kanga Coolers are iceless coolers, that act as a koozie for your beer, keeping it cold for up to 7 hours. Kanga Coolers offers the Kase Mate, Pouch, Backpack, a new beer block, and tons of apparel. Tune in to learn where you can get your Kanga Coolers in the Upstate, customize your cooler online, and key details on a new product line dropping soon! Kanga Coolers Ryan Frazier, Co-Founder kangacoolers.com

Greekville returns to Greenville! Come experience Greek culture through food, dance, and music. Be sure to visit their new “Plaka” which features their Taverna and vendors … be “Greek for a Day.”  The community of Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral will celebrate its 38th Annual Greenville Greek Festival  May 17 – 19, 2024. Last year, we had Tori Zambrano on the podcast to talk about the Greek Fest. Tune in to last year's episode to learn more. For more information on this year's festival, visit their website. greekforaday.com

Is it too early to start planning for retirement? Today we are joined by wealth advisors Bryan Ballentine, CFP®, CRPC™ and Anthony Colancecco, CFP®, CRPC™ with Ballentine Capital Advisors, where they talk about how it is never too early to start planning for every stage of your life. Bryan and Anthony discuss the importance of budgets, life insurance, disability insurance, and specifics about purpose-based investing. They go into detail about their unique bucket strategy of retirement income, and how these buckets are personalized to you, and help you plan for not only your future, but inflation. Tune in to learn more about how they can help you reach your financial goals, and even potentially pay less taxes along the way! Bryan Ballentine, CFP®, CRPC™ and Anthony Colancecco, CFP®, CRPC™ Ballentine Capital Advisors Balletinecapital.com

Do you know the difference between the economy and the market? Tune in to today's podcast episode with Bryan Ballentine, CFP®, CRPC™, and Anthony Colancecco, CFP®, CRPC™, wealth advisors with Ballentine Capital Advisors. They dive into why you should turn off the noise, and why being disciplined, and not focusing on outperforming your neighbor is so important. Tune in to learn more about why working with a professional is crucial, and why planning first is key. For more information, read “Wealth on Purpose” by Bryan Ballentine (available for purchase on Amazon). Bryan Ballentine, CFP®, CRPC™, and Anthony Colancecco, CFP®, CRPC™ Ballentinecapital.com 864-322-6046 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNTX9YMZ

Is buying, refinancing, or renovating a home in your future? Today we are joined by Amanda McCall with PrimeLending. PrimeLending and Amanda's team can help you buy a home, refinance, renovate, and even explore types of home loans with their simple, hassle-free home loan process. Amanda helps educate clients, helping them decide when to purchase and when to downsize. She goes into detail about renting versus buying and dives deep into interest rates. She talks about how having a high car payment could be your biggest obstacle in getting your ideal home and what she has seen in her 12 years of experience. Tune in to learn more about why having a professional on your side is so important, and how her team can help you find your comfort level when it comes to monthly payments. Amanda McCall https://lo.primelending.com/amccall/ 864-315-3592

Are you tired of the ordinary? Today we are joined by Vickie Zambrano, owner, and curator of Curean. Curean offers an iconic dining experience unlike any other in Greenville. They create in-house charcuterie, small plate menu items, high-end cocktails, as well as feature private specialty dinners. Curean prides itself in sourcing everything from local high-end partners to bring the very best of the Upstate to your plate. Tune in to learn more about their unique and tasty menu, as well as some of the specialty drinks their mixologist makes! Curean Cureangvl.com 864-416-4610

You do not want to miss this year's Greenville Royale. Today we are joined by Courtney Cromer and Jennifer Riehle with the Red Shoe Society, who are helping plan the Greenville Royale 2024. This year's royale will feature a night out with hors d'oeuvres from Southern Way Catering, a DJ, and “play money” to partake in classic blackjack and roulette table games. Place your bets on this James Bond-themed evening to benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas. Tune in to learn more about how your company can sponsor this event, or where to purchase tickets! The Greenville Royale 2024 https://rmhc-carolinas.org/participate/royale/ redshoedevelopment@gmail.com

Are you looking to empower yourself, or your organization to its full potential? Today we are joined by Stacey Bevill, owner of Golden Career Strategies. Golden Career Strategies offers services such as leadership and organizational development, coaching for teams and individuals, onboarding and outplacements, assessments/workshops, change management, and succession planning. Their qualified team includes coaches and consultants who have decades of experience to help you achieve your goals. Tune in to learn more about how Golden Career Strategies can help you or your business and what networking and roundtable events they have coming up soon. Golden Career Strategies goldencareerstrategies.com 864-527-0425

Today we are joined by Bobby Clarke, coach at Five Fork Athletics. Through accountability, workouts, nutrition, and community, Five Forks Athletics helps build confidence and good habits to help you reach your goals. Five Forks Athletics goes above and beyond to give you the best experience possible while ensuring you are safely working out. They offer CrossFit, evoFIT, personal training, and even an open gym to help you reach your gym goals. Please tune in to learn more about how you can drop in to try out one of these classes, details on Bobby's fitness journey, and why he is so passionate about helping others. Five Forks Athletics fiveforkscrossfit.com 864-203-5485

Are you aware that you might be filing out your taxes too early? Did you know that tax numbers change every year? Today we are joined by Bryan Ballentine, CFP®, CRPC™, and Anne Thompson, CRPC™, wealth advisors with Ballentine Capital Advisors. They talk about the 2024 tax changes and what you need to be doing to prepare for tax season. They go into specifics about what contributions you can still make for the prior years' taxes and have conversations around charitable giving best practices. Tune in for some key tips for the upcoming tax season. For more details on taxes, check out chapter 6 of “Wealth on Purpose” by Bryan Ballentine, CFP®, CRPC™. Bryan Ballentine, CFP®, CRPC™, and Anne Thompson, CRPC™ Ballentinecapital.com 864-322-6046

Today we are joined by Dr. Robin LaCroix MD, Alicia Parsons, and Clint Henderson, who are part of the Inspire Courage: Pediatric Hematology Oncology New Unit Capital Campaign. This campaign is an initiative launched by Prisma Health Children's Hospital to help raise $6 million for a brand-new pediatric cancer and blood disorders unit. This new unit will provide exceptional care for children while building a warm, comforting haven where families find comfort during their lengthy and challenging hospital stays. This new unit features family-suggested design elements, including but not limited to desks for parents to work remotely, respite space for parents, as well as an expanded playroom. Tune in to learn more about how they have already raised $3.8 million for their campaign, and personal stories from Clint, whose son battled cancer, and how he now has a nonprofit named Cole's Victory Lap, supporting families going through pediatric cancer. Ballentine Capital Advisors, the sponsor of Connected by Community has committed to donating $500 to this campaign. Please use our link below to help this cause by donating to reach our goal of $2,000 to help the new unit and families! https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2ffundraise.givesmart.com%2fe%2f6wUcTg%3fvid%3d138ukg&c=E,1,UyNENVtF2kpPZQUJSpiH5DDdTCRzaiqrN8yIaXsqekU6LSTDgekIuRLxxCZ8t-HwldjcELiXpLLHwFICOcWrrCRWItLTyOtI2yf8X-TfS_JhOdlfRnP-ug,,&typo=1 Inspire Courage: Pediatric Hematology-Oncology New Unit Capital Campaign https://fundraise.givesmart.com/e/Qylefg?vid=12unsq Dr. Robin LaCroix MD, Alicia Parsons, and Clint Henderson

Today we are joined by Steve Hall, Vice President of Find Great People. Steve dives into how FGP helps find, develop, and retain talent, as well as transition talent. Steve talks about how the workforce is changing as Millennials and Gen Z are taking over, and by 2030, they will populate 90% of the workforce. FGP helps companies find creative solutions to make sure positions are filled, as well as helps candidates find the perfect job. Tune in to learn more about important topics such as company culture, compensation, and the struggle between in-person, hybrid, and remote jobs. Find Great People Fgp.com 877-819-7619

As the tech community is experiencing an “epidemic of isolation” Phil Yanov's goal is to form a community of tech people. Phil decided to create Tech After Five, to help start conversations between tech people. Tech After Five helps bring tech people together, who normally would not get together, to help encourage them to collaborate in a welcoming environment. At these events, color-coated name tags are given out to help determine what you intend to gain from the event, such as help on a business idea, or even just a tech community friend. Tune in to learn which 5 cities you can catch Tech After Five in, as well as new events Phil hosts, such as Networking Over Coffee. Phil Yanov Philyanov.com phil@ta5.com

If you don't put your time in and participate, you won't be great. Tune in for key details on Bryan Ballentine's new book titled Wealth on Purpose. Bryan talks about the importance of planning, and how his 25 years of business experience has allowed him to plan for the good and bad. Bryan talks about keeping wealth, his unique bucket strategy, and other important topics such as taxes and estate planning. Tune in to learn more about lizard brain, taking action, and how this book can benefit anyone who reads it. Click the link below to find out where you can purchase Wealth on Purpose. Wealth On Purpose Bryan Ballentine https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNTX9YMZ

Do you have a Long-Term Care plan in place? If you don't, it might be time to start thinking about it. Today we are joined by Bryan Ballentine, CFP®, CRPC™ and Anthony Colancecco, CFP®, CRPC™, wealth advisors with Ballentine Capital Advisors on why you shouldn't wait until you need Long-Term Care to start planning for it. They talk about common reasons some people do not plan for Long-Term Care such as the cost, unpleasant feelings associated with it, and not wanting to give up control of their life. Bryan and Anthony also talk about the average cost of Long-Term care in our community, and what insurance can help cover. Tune in to learn more about how you could be at risk if you do not have a plan in place, and how Bryan and Anthony can help you better plan for your future. Ballentine Capital Advisors Bryan Ballentine, CFP®, CRPC™ and Anthony Colancecco, CFP®, CRPC™ bryan@ballentinecapital.com and anthony@ballentinecapital.com

Does your business or even personal accounts have protection against cybersecurity? Today we are joined by Jesse White, VP of Strategic Partnerships at Katalyst. Katalyst helps keep your organization and its data safe with a tailored cybersecurity solution designed just for you from a multitude of services. In 17 years, Katalyst has helped businesses keep and protect their brand, as well as offer training, response, and detection to cybersecurity threats. Tune in for details including some horror stories Jessie has seen in the business and even tips on how to protect yourself and your business from potential threats. Katalyst Jesse White 704-790-4440

Today we are joined by industry expert Joe Roberts, owner of Wealth Solutions. Wealth Solutions is an independent insurance firm led by Joe Roberts, specializing in Medicare. Joe joins us today to talk about all things Medicare. Joe talks about Medicare supplements, coverage, enrollment, and even big changes coming to Medicare in 2024. Tune in to learn more about Medicare, and why an annual review of your policy is crucial. Wealth Solutions Joe Roberts 864-979-7770 or scwealthsolutions.com

Today we are joined by Don Williams, Co-Founder and Director of Community Relations at JUMPSART. JUMPSTART works on transforming the lives of prisoners from the inside out and works with current and former prisoners to assist with re-entry to society. They accomplish this through community partnership to address the spiritual, educational, employment healthcare, housing, and family relationship needs. JUMPSTART has a 96% success rate, over 2,100 graduates, 4,000 participants in the program, and over 1,000 weekly volunteers. Tune in to learn more about how you can help financially, volunteer to help build second chances, or even learn more about this impactful organization. Don Williams JUMPSTART Jumpstartvision.org/south-carolina

Today we are joined by Anne Thompson, CRPC™, a wealth advisor with Ballentine Capital Advisors. Anne has been passionate about helping women in finance for over 8 years. Anne talks about understanding your finances as a woman and why investing should not be complicated. She dives into finances surrounding marriage, work, kids, divorce, retirement, and death. She also goes over important topics such as kids and making the choice to be a stay-at-home mom or a career mom. Tune in to learn more about what financial misknowns you might be making as a woman. Anne Thompson, CRPC™ 864-438-2158 Ballentinecapital.com

Growing up as kids and loving horror films, Halloween, and going to haunted houses, brothers Joe Thompson and Tim Thompson decided they wanted more. They decided they could do more and opened their very own haunted house, Madworld Haunted Attractions. Over a decade later, Madworld Haunted Attractions now has people from all over the country coming to see the attraction and was rated #1 must-see haunted attraction in SC, as well as top 10 scariest haunted attractions in America. Tune in to find out how this attraction can cater to adults and children alike, and what you can expect in the 2023 season! Madworld Haunted Attractions Madworldattractions.com 147 Country Manor Rd Piedmont, SC 29673

Did you know that 2,300 Americans die every day from cardiovascular disease? Leaders of Impact Campaign bring the work of the American Heart Association to life in communities across the country. Today we are joined by Kinsey Besser and Tori Zambrano who are helping run the Upstate Leaders of Impact Campaign. Through this signature 7-week blind competition, changemakers are relentlessly focused on driving equitable health by educating their communities about cardiovascular disease and stroke, raising critical dollars to help fund lifesaving research, and advocating for the health and well-being of all. With the support of the American Heart Association, nominees and their teams create custom plans to maximize their reach and make an impact. Campaigns launch across the nation on World Heart Day (September 29, 2023), creating a groundswell and serving as a catalyst for change. Tune in to find out more information on how you can support his campaign, and why heart health should always be top of mind. Leaders of Impact Upstate September 29th-November 15th https://www2.heart.org/site/TR/HeartBall/GSA-GreaterSoutheastAffiliate?pg=entry&fr_id=10007

There's a whole world in our neighborhood. What began in 1997 as an international center of the upstate, has now turned into Upstate International, with the goal of providing opportunities for local residents to engage in the increasingly global upstate region through exciting cultural programs, and various services, including language classes, conversion opportunities, relocation services, and social clubs. Today we are joined by Tracie Frese, Executive Director of Upstate International. Tracie tells us about how they are building a stronger, more inclusive Upstate, and why support and services like this are essential to our community. Tune in to learn key details on how you can become an Upstate International member, how you can support this non-profit, or details on their Global Upstate Conference on International Business and World Affairs happening October 3rd-4th. Upstate International Upstateinternational.org 864-631-2188

Did you know that there are over 1,000 homeowners in the upstate who are living in unsafe, subpar housing? Jake Beaty, CEO of Rebuild Upstate joins us today to tell us about how we can get involved to help low-income homeowners in our community with home preservation. Rebuild Upstate is a 16-year-old organization made in response to Hurricane Katrina when they realized that people in their own backyards in the Upstate also needed help to live in their homes. Rebuild Upstate currently serves Greenville, Anderson, Pickens and Oconee, serving vulnerable populations such as veterans, older adults, people with disabilities, and families with children. Rebuild Upstate has repaired over 14,000 homes, focusing solely on home preservation and repairs as means to keep residents in their own homes. Tune in to learn more about how you can volunteer to help your neighbors, and details on how impactful this nonprofit it. Rebuild Upstate Rebuildupstate.org 864-643-5711

Today we welcome back Marti Spencer with Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas. RMHC of the Carolinas operates 3 houses out of South Carolina, with the goal of keeping families with sick children together and near the care and resources they need. Today, RMHC of the Carolinas has served close to 12,000 families from the upstate, our surrounding states, and beyond our country's borders. Marti talks about the many volunteer opportunities RMHC offers such as baking cookies and their pop tab program, as well as other ways you can give back such as donations or rounding up your change when eating at McDonald's. Marti also talks about upcoming events such as a Golf Tournament, Plane Pull, Gala, Lights of Love, and much more. Tune in to learn more about why volunteers are so valuable to Ronald McDonald, as well as details on how to become a guest of the house if you have a sick child. Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas rmhc-carolinas.org 864-235-0506

After starting her basketball career in 8th grade, Marie Marquez never looked back. Marie went on to play basketball in college, went pro, coached for the Junior NBA, and now owns her own sports and training gym, Amplify Sports. Marie coached Junior NBA basketball in China, India, and Asia, before returning home and deciding to stay and open her own gym to help people in her community. Amplify Sports just recently celebrated its 1-year anniversary of being open and are starting a scholarship program to honor athletes. Amplify Sports offers training, leagues, and camps for children, teens, and adults, with their athletes ranging from 7 years old to 74 years old. Tune in to learn more about Marie's journey that led her to Amplify Sports, as well as how their training leaves people feeling better about themselves. Amplify Sports Marie Marquez amplifysportssc.com

Today we get to hear from Wealth Advisors Anthony Colancecco, CFP®, CRPC®, and Anne Thompson, CRPC® with Ballentine Capital Advisors. Anthony and Anne talk about their unique purpose-based investing process at Ballentine Capital Advisors as the firm is approaching its 25-year anniversary. Ballentine Capital Advisors is made up of an extremely professional and qualified team, whose main goal is to serve the client and be there when they need help. Anthony and Anne talk about why Ballentine Capital Advisors decided to go independent to better serve their clients, and details on their one-of-a-kind bucket strategy of retirement income. Tune in to learn more details on why you shouldn't put all your eggs in one basket and issues around stock picking. Anthony Colancecco, CFP®, CRPC® and Anne Thompson CRPC® anthony@ballentinecapital.com and athompson@ballentinecapital.com ballentinecapital.com

Imagine getting a random letter in the mail letting you know all your medical debt has been retired. That is exactly what RIP Medical Debt has been doing for families for years. Today we are joined by Scott Crawford, who is running the 2023 South Carolina Debt Relief Campaign. This campaign helps eradicate medical debt for pennies on the dollar, with every dollar donated going 100% towards debt relief to help families in SC struggling. In 2022, their efforts abolished close to $12 million of burdensome medical debt for over 12,000 families in South Carolina, leaving a huge impact. Medical Debt is a major issue affecting 22% of residents in South Carolina. By buying debt at deep discounts, your donation has 100x the impact. Help donate today to make an impact on those in your community who are burdened by medical debt. Visit ripmedicaldebt.org and under campaigns click on South Carolina to find out more about this organization and donate! Scott Crawford RIP Medical Debt https://ripmedicaldebt.org/campaign/south-carolina/?

In today's episode, we hear from Autumn Henning, founder of Chrysalis Orofacial. Autumn is a Speech-Language Pathologist, a Certified Orofacial Myologist, and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Autumn shares with us all the services Chrysalis Orofacial provides, how the face and mouth affect so many aspects of daily life and a few client success stories. Chrysalis Orofacial 864-383-8634 www.chrysalisorofacial.com

Do you know what a reserve currency is? Is the US dollar at risk of losing its world status as the reserve currency? Tune in to hear from CFA Eric Stein, with East Bay Investment Solutions, regarding why this is such a relevant topic. Eric discusses what options could potentially replace the US dollar and what characteristics are needed to be a reserve currency. Tune in to find out why being globally diversified is so important, and why planning before investing is key. Eric Stein, CFA East Bay Investments eastbayis.com

Do you like gyros, lamb, dolmades, and baklava? Then you are going to love the Greek Festival! The 37th Annual Greenville Greek Festival will take place May 19th-21st 2023. This year's Greek Fest will offer authentic food and drinks, music, dancing, and even a tour of the Saint George Orthodox Cathedral. Today we are joined by Tori Zambrano, one of the spokespersons for the Greek Festival. Tori tells us about the importance of the Greek Festival and preserving Greek Culture. She gives us key details of new things offered at the festival this year, as well as details about the local charity, “Just Say Something,” they are partnering with. Tune in to find out how you can be Greek for a day! Greek Festival greekforaday.com $3 admission, clear bag policy, no pets allowed

Leadership is best learned by experiencing it. Today we hear from storyteller, author, and leadership coach Mike Chibbaro. Mike is a CPA by trade with more than 30 years at Ernst & Young but has since found a passion for history. His passion led him to work with Battlefield Leadership which uses historical events to show the significance of leadership. Be sure to tune in to learn how these in-person “field trips” help business leaders learn unique skills from historical battles that shaped our world today.Mike ChibbaroBattlefield Leadershiphttps://battlefieldleadership.com/ 

Are you looking for a trustworthy realtor who can help you buy or sell a home in Greenville? Corinne Nickell, owner of Nest Realty of Greenville, and her team can help you with all your needs. Nest Realty takes the time to hand pick their realtors, building a team of experienced individuals that will do the right thing, putting your needs before their profit. All 16 agents at Nest Realty are producing in the top 5% of the Greater Greenville Association of Realtors. Corinne tells us more about how we could potentially be going back to a buyer's market, the complex of getting a loan, and why people statistically make more money when they use a realtor. Tune in for more details on why using an agent is so important, as well as details on all the hard work Nest Realty puts in behind the scenes to help you buy or sell a home. Corinne Nickell Nest Realty of Greenville 864-202-HOME

Today we sit down with Brandon Bennett, retired running Back at USC and NFL star. Brandon talks to us about the mindset to be an elite athlete and how he is helping young kids in our community today. Brandon now owns 36Elite Sports and Fitness Training, helping improve speed, agility, quickness, hand-eye coordination, and balance. Tune in to learn more about Brandon's journey and how he can help you. Brandon Bennett 36Elite Sports and Fitness Training 36elite@gmail.com

One day while enjoying the beach with his family, a random golf ball fell out of Anthony Garofalo's bag and quickly rolled down the packed sand like it was on a putting green. That is when he knew he had to bring golfing to the beach. What started as an accident almost a year ago is now a successful business and being played all over the world. Beach Putt offers a full kit that allows you to take the fun of golfing to the beach. Tune in to find out how you can get your hands on one of the top beach games of 2023. Anthony Garofalo Beach Putt playbeachputt.com

Jennifer Sisk is a certified life coach who helps her clients overcome the challenges that life throws their way. After struggling with an eating disorder for many years, she knows first-hand how to tackle recovery head on. As a life coach, Jennifer will help you work through what is making you stuck in life. She can help reverse negative and self sabotaging thoughts and replace them with positive ones. Tune in to learn more about how Jennifer can help you. Jennifer Sisk, Life Coach 803-351-1262 jennifersisklifecoach@gmail.com

After too many cold New Jersey winters, Anne Thompson decided to move to Greenville for a warmer start. 30 years later, she has made a huge impact on her community. Anne started in the communications industry, working for Sprint, then BellSouth/AT&T for a total of 16 years. She spent her whole life passionate about investing and decided to finally transition her career into the wealth management industry. Anne was one of the only female consultants in SC while working at Charles Schwab. Anne has recently joined Ballentine Capital Advisors as a Wealth Advisor to help continue to leave her impact on her community. Tune in to find out why Anne is so passionate about helping families, and key details on how she has overcome challenges as a woman in a male dominated industry. Anne Thompson 864-438-2158 athompson@ballentinecapital.com

Do you feel like you are paying too much to Uncle Sam? You cannot change the past, but you can certainly change the future. Anthony Colancecco and Cameron Cannon, Wealth Advisors with Ballentine Capital Advisors talk about the difference between tax prep and tax planning. It is important to have a financial plan that incorporates tax planning to help mitigate paying unnecessary taxes when possible. They walk us through their process and how they work closely with CPA's during tax season, and even give a few tips on how to potentially save on taxes. Tune in to learn more about tax planning and the strategies that can potentially save you from overpaying in taxes. Anthony Colancecco / Cameron Cannon ballentinecapital.com anthony@ballentinecapital.com / cameron@ballentinecapital.com

Today we sit down with the Executive Director and CEO of A Child's Haven, Tanya Camunas. Child's Haven helps treat children with development delays as a result of limited resources, abuse, or neglect, and provide support and education for their families. Tune in learn about how we as a community can partner with them through volunteering and other support opportunities. Tanya Camunas 864-298-0025 AChildsHaven.org

Are you looking for an experienced photographer and videographer team to help capture your special events? Nolan Sritan, owner of Nolan Sritan photography can help you with all your photo and video needs. His team serves clients nationwide, specializing in wedding photography. Nolan and his team have a unique award-winning dark and moody photography and video style and have a passion in capturing moments that evoke emotion and tell your story. Nolan served in the United States Marines Corp and even lived in Thailand working at an elephant sanctuary, before deciding to move back to Greenville and pursue his passion for photography. Tune in to learn more about how Nolan finally decided to pursue his passion in photography and find out how you can book his team to capture your special event. Nolan Sritan Nolan Sritan Photography nolansritanphoto.com

Whether you are a woman entrepreneur or macho home builder, you will love today's podcast episode featuring Ashton Dilley, manager of Floor Boys in Greenville. Ashton talks about the learning curve she faced and overcoming her fear of being a woman in a predominantly male business. Tune in to hear her tips for young entrepreneurs and women on facing their fears and chasing the boss babe dream. Ashton Dilley Floor Boys floorboys.com

Do you have a plan for college? Are you academically prepared to start applying for college? If you are planning on going to college, or currently attending college, today's episode is for you. Today we hear from Preston Ballentine, senior at Southside Christian on his experience preparing for college, as well as experience applying to colleges. We hear insights on what colleges are looking for, how to start a plan, and when you and your family should decide if college is right for you. Tune in for some extra details from our co-host Anna Waters, a recent college graduate on how you can maximize your value while in college, as well as prepare for the workforce.

Today we hear from Austin Maxwell who co-founded the local startup company, Kanga Coolers. Austin and his fellow Clemson classmates started Kanga as a class project and never looked back. They knew there was a need for a lightweight cooler that could keep drinks cool without the need for ice, so they created a koozie for a case of beer. This product has since evolved to reach new heights by being featured on Shark Tank and turning a revenue of more than 7-figures. Tune in to learn more about their product and how it is changing the cooler market. Kanga Coolers Austin Maxwell kangacoolers.com

After teaching children for over 10 years in public schools, Melissa Fossett decided there was a need for a more personalized approach to tutoring, especially for young children. Melissa decided to open her own tutoring service, Creative Minds Tutoring. She believes that every child has a creative mind, and given the proper tools, can tap into their creativity and reach their full potential. Melissa and her team offer services to K-4 and elementary children, in a 1:1 safe space setting where the teaching is catered to the child's specific learning style. Be sure to tune in to find out how Creative Minds Tutoring can help your kids reach their full potential. Creative Minds Tutoring 864-905-2052 Creativeminds-tutoring.com

Founders of Project Hope, Lisa Lane and Susan Sachs join us on the podcast today. Project Hope specializes in providing services to the autism community through various programs. Lisa and Susan share with us why they started Project Hope 25 years ago and how the services provided impact people of all ages. Project Hope Foundation 864-676-0028 projecthopesc.org

What fiduciary liability do you have if you sponsor a retirement plan? If it is you, are you well versed on the fees, investments, and employee education that is supposed to be rendered to your participants. If it is another financial professional, is there a plan document that states they are taking the responsibility off your hands? These are questions that you should be asking as a business owner who sponsors a retirement plan. As confusing as it is, Anthony and Cameron from Ballentine Capital Advisors can help clear the murky water and address your plan specifics in as little as 15 minutes. If any of these questions are concerning, tune it to learn more about your options and next steps to consider. Anthony Colancecco / Cameron Cannon ballentinecapital.com anthony@ballentinecapital.com / cameron@ballentinecapital.com

Are you struggling to get engagement on your social media? What about lacking content to post for your business? Caroline Hendrix, owner of 5th Ave. Media can help. Caroline always had an entrepreneurial spirit growing up, and after graduating from Clemson University, decided to turn her passion into a business. 5th Ave. Media offers social media management services to brands and businesses to help them manage their social media accounts, create content, and monitor their KPIs. Caroline talks about how important quality content is and that human elements in your post might even boost results. Tune in to find out how the use of social media can help your business boom. Caroline Hendrix 5th Ave. Media 5thave.mediamanagement@gmail.com

On today's podcast, we sit down with John and Elizabeth Boyette from CMIT Solutions. Technology is one of the most critical aspects of business operations, but also one of the least understood. John and Elizabeth talk about the importance of managed IT solutions and being proactive with your technology. CMIT Solutions 864-322-2948 cmitsolutions.com/greenville

With tax season quickly approaching, do you have a CPA you can turn to for help? Today we get to hear from Brian Johnson, CPA. Brian is a partner at SuggsJohnson which is a leading tax, accounting, and consulting firm in the upstate. Brian tells us why he left a “big 4” accounting firm and how he is able to help make an impact on the clients and families he serves. Brian Johnson, CPA 864-226-0306 suggsjohnson.com