The WEInvested Podcast

Gideon Pfeffer is the visionary CEO and Managing Partner of the GSH Group and a trailblazer in opportunistic real estate investing. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Gideon has become a leading expert in passive investing as a means to create and increase wealth. His expertise extends to real estate investing, where he has successfully overseen the acquisition and renovation of thousands of single-family homes in the Midwest and Southeast.Under Gideon's remarkable leadership, The GSH Group has achieved outstanding results, raising and placing over $300 million of equity and amassing a lucrative portfolio of more than 7,000 apartment units across five states, with a total value surpassing a billion dollars. His dedication to strategic partnership initiatives and ventures, coupled with his astute decision-making on investments and acquisitions, has propelled the company to the forefront of the real estate market.For podcasts with an audience of CEOs and high net worth individuals seeking valuable insights, Gideon would be a phenomenal addition to your show. His expertise in passive investing provides a fresh perspective on creating sustainable wealth outside the stock market. Moreover, his profound knowledge of real estate investing and multi-family properties offers invaluable guidance to those looking for safe and profitable opportunities. Don't miss the chance to learn from a true industry leader, as Gideon shares his wisdom and strategies for financial success on your show!

Doug C. Brown is the CEO of CEO Sales Strategies and a Sales Revenue and Profit Growth Expert.He has led client award-winning and high-performance teams as well as pioneered profitable development programs for companies. He has advised companies such as Intuit, CBS Television, Procter & Gamble, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Nationwide, Embassy Suites, Inc. 500 to 5000 companies, and thousands of other businesses and entrepreneurs.As an independent division head, Doug created, trained, and presented high-impact, results-oriented web seminars for prospects of Tony Robbins and Chet Holmes. Doug increased their division sales by 864% and close rate by 62% in just six months.Today, he helps companies and individuals increase their sales by incorporating sales revenue and profit growth strategies used by top 1% performers through the Top 1% Academy, Sales Revenue, and Profit Growth Masterminds. He also specializes in creating commission-only sales teams and advises companies on how to properly prepare for a high-performing sales team so they can attract and retain elite sales producers.

Ed Meek, CFPTM is the founder and CEO of Edge Financial Advisors, the registered investment advisor (RIA) firm that exists to provide small business owners with a sense of confidence, freedom, and hope about their financial futures. Ed's passion is to provide holistic financial planning and customized portfolio management solutions that fit the unique life situation of entrepreneurs and give them a plan to achieve the lives they have only dreamt about.After more than a decade as a financial adviser for a retail branch of Fidelity, Ed founded Edge Financial Advisors in 2005, with the goal of working with fewer clients in a much more comprehensive and effective way. 19 years later, he has built a team of 8 people who are currently helping more than 300 clients thrive financially. He is on a mission to help over 1,000 people achieve financial wellbeing in the next 5 years.Ed has 25+ years of experience as a CFPTM and is one of the nation's leading experts in Defined Benefit Plans, an extremely tax-efficient way of helping business owners and their employees save for retirement. He lives in Wheaton, IL, with his wife and is a father of three adult children, and also co-hosts the video podcast, Ed's Edge, a show for the regular Joe and Jane investor who aspires to live a life of freedom and generosity.

Mike Andes is the founder of Augusta Lawn Care that has 170+ franchise locations across the United States and Canada.He is dedicated to helping home service business owners make their businesses more profitable and better work environments.Founder of CopilotCRM.com and other companies shown at MikeAndes.com

Louis O' Connor, Founder, and Principal of Strategic Metals Invest. They are the only industry supplier in the world to offer private investors the option to purchase and profit from owning Strategic Metals. The investment play is exactly the same paradigm as investing in Precious Metals, instead the investor is purchasing Strategic Metals.

Retain provides on-demand HR for startups and small businesses that need access to core Human Resources services without having to hire full-time HR staff.  Retain was founded by Lisa-Maree Blumenfeld who has 20+ years of HR experience and was most recently VP of People at Expa, where she lead a centralized HR and Recruiting team that worked on behalf of 20+ startups.  Prior to Expa, Lisa has worked with fast-moving startups (Lyft, NinthDecimal, Aria Systems) as well as with larger Fortune 500 companies (PG&E, Blue Shield of California).  Her passion for early to mid-stage startups encouraged the start of Retain and her deep network of experienced HR professionals make up the team.Lisa-Maree Blumenfeld has revolutionized HR at various levels, from startups like Lyft to larger corporations. Merging HR with financial literacy seems like a natural progression. Her practical tips could empower your listeners to enhance both their organizational culture and financial health.

Carlos Samaniego EA is a recognized tax resolution expert, dynamic speaker, and founder of Tax Debt Consultants, LLC. Licensed by the U.S. Department of Treasury as an Enrolled Agent (EA), he specializes in resolving complex IRS and state tax issues for self-employed professionals and small business owners. Carlos is a best-selling author who co-authored Never Give Up with sports commentator Dick Vitale and wrote How to Make the IRS an Offer They Can't Refuse, sharing his personal journey and strategies for overcoming tax troubles. His upcoming book,The FTB Taxpayer Survival Guide, offers essential advice for handling tax disputes with the California Franchise Tax Board. Carlos has received the Quilly Award and the Expy Award, recognizing his contributions to tax resolution. He has been featured on major media outlets such as Fox, NBC, CBS, ABC, and USA Today, and in a PBS documentary hosted by Dennis Quaid.As host of the Tax Debt Consultant Podcast—ranked among the Top 10 Small Business Tax Podcasts by Feedspot—Carlos provides invaluable tax advice to a global audience.Additionally, Carlos mentors CPAs, EAs, and attorneys nationwide, helping them develop successful practices. His dedication to education and client service earned him the 2020 Tax Professional of the Year title.

Janna Scott is the founder and visionary behind DeFi Tax, a groundbreaking platform designed to bring clarity and compliance to the complex world of cryptocurrency tax reporting. With a career rooted in precision and innovation, Janna's journey began in December 2021 when her accounting clients raised concerns about the accuracy and reliability of existing crypto tax solutions. Driven by her commitment to excellence, she embarked on a rigorous two-year research initiative, collaborating with leading institutions like the SEC, IRS, and prominent universities to uncover and address gaps in crypto tax compliance.Janna's work has set a new standard in the industry, earning recognition from regulatory bodies and academic experts alike. DeFi Tax is now celebrated for its audit-ready reporting, direct blockchain data integration, and user-centric approach. By combining her expertise with a deep understanding of the evolving financial landscape, Janna has made it her mission to empower individuals, businesses, and institutions to navigate cryptocurrency taxes confidently. Her dedication to precision, transparency, and client protection continues to shape the future of crypto tax compliance.

Meet David Steele, founder & CEO of One Wealth Advisors, an independent RIA firm handling over $1.1B in assets, who also is a prolific restaurateur, having opened 6 restaurants in 6 years in the competitive Bay Area. And that's just the start - he's also a yoga studio owner, artist, philanthropist, and more.

KATHY ROBERTS is CEO of Switch Reward Card - a blockchain finance ecosystem. Switch Reward Card isn't just a card; it's a comprehensive system that aligns with the ever-evolving world of digital finance. Join us, and experience the future of trading. Kathy started her career with Sears and then transferred over as an early executive (or Dawner as they called them) when Sears started Discover Card. Kathy went on to become the President of Discover Bank and served as the first female Chair of the Delaware Bankers Association. Current member of Salt Lake Chamber's Board of Governors. Kathy Roberts' charitable endeavors include but in no way are limited to the following organizations: Delaware Junior Achievement (Board of Directors), New Mexico Museum Foundation, WHOlives (Board of Directors), https://wholives.org/ - Providing clean water in the developing world using the innovative Village Drill. The History Makers, https://www.thehistorymakers.org/ - Documenting video oral histories of influential and sometimes unsung African Americans heroes. Kathy currently splits her time between Santa Fe, NM and Salt Lake City with her son Malachi, who is a musician.

Dr. Harms transforms the often daunting task of end-of-life planning into a compassionate journey, helping people navigate the emotional aspects of planning personal finances. She has witnessed death up close many times throughout her life, including the loss of her mother and her son to suicide and, eventually, her husband from a broken heart after their son's death. These events shaped her views on finding meaning in grief, and she set out on a mission to end the stigma around end-of-life planning. As a fourth quarter coach and international speaker specializing in grief, conflict resolution, and legacy planning, Dr. Harms goes beyond spreadsheets to help clients — often with the aid of financial planners — arrange their personal finances and estates with care and empathy, turning what can be a difficult process into a meaningful experience for families. Her book Are You Ready? How to Build a Legacy to Die For talks about how to build a legacy that lives on after your death. It was a #1 bestseller on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and has won numerous awards, including being named the most inspirational book of 2024 by the Pacific Book Awards.

Jim is a partner at Southern Impression Homes, a company that specializes in building rental portfolios for individual investors and institutional buyers in Florida's high-growth markets. With a strong focus on the Build-to-Rent niche, Southern Impression Homes provides new construction, low-density properties such as single-family homes, duplexes, and quads with property management in place. Jim's experience in real estate investment extends beyond his partnership with Southern Impression Homes. He has done over 2,000 rehabs and formerly owned Jax Wealth Investments, which focused on bulk foreclosures. After a successful joint venture partnership with Southern Impression Homes, the two companies merged in 2022 to better serve their growing client base in the Build to Rent niche. In addition to his thriving career in real estate, Jim is a respected figure in family education. As the co-founder and owner of 18 Summers, he offers keynotes, workshops, and retreats to entrepreneurs, professionals, and family-focused companies who seek to balance their success in business with strong family relationships. Jim and his wife Jamie are the bestselling authors of “The Family Board Meeting” on Amazon. Their “Board Meeting” strategy, “Date Night with A Question” program, and other straightforward frameworks have benefited numerous business leaders worldwide in rebuilding and strengthening their family connections.

Named one of the most influential “Female Pioneers in Technology”, Elizabeth Bieniek is an author, founder, and Fortune 100 leadership veteran focused on “good peopling” as the secret to exceptional execution. After turning corporate innovation on its head with her own unconventional success story, Elizabeth now helps leaders tap into the individual genius within their teams to unlock unrivaled innovation and uncover joy in the journey.Book Link: Cake on Tuesday: 25 Lessons to Unlock Corporate Innovation

Alex Chompff, a serial entrepreneur, seasoned investor, and U.S. Marine Corps veteran who is reshaping the venture capital landscape.  As Co-Founder and Executive Director of Evolution Ventures and Lead General Partner of MinervaFund, Alex focuses on investing in women and entrepreneurs of color—groups often overlooked by traditional investors.  Alex and his partners recognize that smart capital, when quickly deployed, can address these oversights and build diverse portfolios positioned for elevated returns. Their investment strategy is driven by the belief that unlocking the potential in underrepresented founders isn't just ethical, it's good business. Their combined portfolio features many disruptive startups with significant growth potential, including Dope Dog, a brand offering CBD-infused products for dogs, and Aermetric, an aircraft maintenance app trusted by major carriers like Alaska Airlines, JetBlue, and the U.S. Air Force. Alex served in the U.S. Marine Corps before becoming the Director of Technology during the dotcom boom at Kleiner Perkins (known for its early investments into giant tech companies, including Facebook, Google and Amazon. He has also co-founded several businesses that have raised millions of dollars in funding and facilitated billions in real-world transactions.

Lou Scatigna, CFP® has worked in the financial field for more than 36 years. During this time, he has helped a number of people manage their financial problems. This includes helping people plan for retirement and create budget plans. Additionally, Lou is a certified financial planner and tax accountant. A little over 20 years ago, Lou decided to go a step further and began a weekly radio show entitled The Financial Physician, and he has since transitioned to making the show available more frequently in podcast form. He offers honest advice and does not shy away from problems or challenging conventional norms. On the show, he puts his years of financial experience to work. The advice he offers has been thoroughly researched and largely shown to be accurate over the course of time. In 2009, Lou published a book under the same name as his radio show. The book offers a financial literacy quiz, advice and resources on how to manage your money. By comparing financial problems to physical ones, it helps to clarify concerns that may otherwise be difficult to understand. Lou's work is well-known and has been featured on major media outlets such as CNN, USA Today, Dallas Morning News, CNBC, Fox News and MSNBC. Subscribe to The Financial Physician to never miss a new episode where host Lou discusses money, markets, politics and other items that affect your financial life!

Jason Schappert is a serial entrepreneur and financial technology visionary dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve financial freedom. He is the co-founder of Moola, an AI-driven investment platform that simplifies complex financial concepts and provides personalized insights and recommendations to help users make informed investment decisions. Prior to Moola, Jason successfully built and exited a previous business, demonstrating his entrepreneurial prowess and ability to build successful ventures from the ground up. He is a passionate advocate for financial literacy and believes that everyone deserves access to the tools and knowledge necessary to achieve financial security. Jason is a strong leader, committed to continuous learning and personal development, and a devoted husband and father. His mission is to empower the next generation to take control of their financial futures and create a world where everyone has the opportunity to achieve financial freedom and live a life free from financial stress.

YEMA, inspired by East African lineage and Bay Area's urban street wear, is a high end clothing brand located in Tiburon, CA. The brand weaves history, culture, tradition and diversity with high-quality garments. Hawi and Yema take great pride in their heritage and aim to tell a story of the two countries with every design. As they expanded their clothing brand they began to focus on providing high end fashion and bold expressive looks. With Ethiopian Fidel and art, Kenyan colors and patterns the two designers strategically created their clothing to entice curiosity and appease the fashionista in their customers. Website: https://www.yemacalif.com

Jose Bernard is a real estate investor whose origins in a humble Dominican community profoundly shape his philanthropic endeavors. Having moved to the United States at the age of 12 and growing up in the Bronx, New York, Jose understands the challenges faced by those in underserved areas. Inspired by his father, who passed away last year, he has founded a charitable organization dedicated to improving educational opportunities for children in the Dominican Republic.Jose's philanthropy focuses on rebuilding and enhancing infrastructure in neglected schools—starting with the installation of new roofs and planning future projects to upgrade electrical systems, install essential facilities, and provide key learning materials. His initiatives extend beyond infrastructure, including supplying schools with uniforms, books, and other educational materials to enrich the students' learning experiences.

Co-founder of Paradigm Shift Financial, Thomas Blottenberger, CFP, ChFC, ABFP, is not your average financial planner. He is an American Dream Experience Leader, guiding individuals to actualize their American Dream by aligning their mindset and financial investments with their greater purpose! Thomas entered the world of financial planning in 2010, eagerly anticipating his opportunity to make a difference in his clients' lives. To his disappointment, he discovered that the finance industry was colder and more impersonal than he had imagined– strictly focused on commissions and quotas over people. This all changed when he was introduced to the principles of Matson Money and their investment strategies, leading Thomas to a major lightbulb moment, or a Paradigm Shift. Paradigm Shift Financial, co-founded in 2018, is leading the way in providing breakthrough education, tools, and coaching that helps individuals and their families transform their financial futures. Thomas is committed to giving his clients the opportunity to change their relationship with money from one of worry, stress, and a scarcity mindset to one of peace of mind and freedom. He firmly believes that when people discover their true purpose for money, they can utilize the Nobel Prize-winning Science of Investing to be able to make more meaningful and impactful financial decisions. https://paradigmshift.adxleader.com

In this episode, we sit down with Jamari Thorne, a trailblazing entrepreneur who is making a significant impact in the world of insurance. Jamari's journey from a young professional to a successful insurance broker is a story of resilience, determination, and an unyielding commitment to his community. We explore how Jamari navigated the challenges of breaking into an industry where minority representation is still limited, and how she has leveraged her expertise to empower others. Jamari shares her insights on the importance of financial literacy, the need for diverse voices in the insurance sector, and her mission to create more opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs of color. Join us as Jamari Thorne takes us through her inspiring journey, offering valuable lessons on entrepreneurship, community building, and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or simply looking for motivation, this episode is packed with insights that will resonate with you.

Adam Koós, CFP®, CMT, CFTe, CEPA is the President and portfolio manager at Libertas Wealth Management Group, Inc., a NAPFA-affiliated, Fee-Only Fiduciary RIA firm, located in Columbus, Ohio. Adam grew up absorbing the power of deep, meaningful relationships that his father fostered in his optometry practice. This early exposure to entrepreneurialism sparked his desire to one day own a business where he could significantly impact others' lives. His professional journey began just 10 days before the tragic attack on the World Trade Center in 2001, and he has since guided his clients through four of the worst market crashes in U.S. history. Adam has been named by Columbus Business First as one of their 20 People to Know in Finance, is a recipient of the Forty Under 40 award, is ranked by Investopedia as one of the Top-100 Most Influential Financial Advisers in the U.S., and is the winner of the coveted Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics and Trust.  

Kevin Davis, a native of Brooklyn, New York, spent much of his childhood reciting original poems and rhymes, influenced by the hip hop craze like any other inner-city child in the 80's. In 1989, he was signed as a rapper to Warner's Brothers Records. At the age of 23, he had his first hit record called, “Stomp” and toured the world for five years. He became a stockbroker in 1995, inspired by the Eddie Murphy movie, “Trading Places,” when the music career fizzled out. This led him into the jaws of the infamous firm Stratton Oakmont, featured in “Wolf of Wall Street” and after a short two years, in a boiler room shop. He was recruited by major wire house firms and ended up working in a small research shop. It was this experience, 25 years later, that led to the development of Investment Dojo, the World's first social trading competition application. After approximately three years in the making, the application finally launched April 13th 2024. The app effectively gamifies the stock market. The initial feedback is that it's fun, exhilarating, and more importantly, wildly educational.

Mark is the founder of TaxWise Partners and a Tax Savings Architect. He brings over 20 years of successful business operation and high level consulting experience to the table for the clients and financial professionals he services. Mark employs the same discipline and tenacity in finding tax savings as he did serving his country as a former Marine Corp Sergeant in Bravo Company 4th Marine Division.  Semper Fi!  TaxWise Partners and its affiliate partners have helped thousands of individuals increase profit and permanently reduce their annual tax bill to enable them better grow their business and accelerate their wealth.

Peter Curk is the CEO at ICONOMI, a trailblazing digital assets portfolio management platform designed to democratize access to the new economy, crafting tailored cryptocurrency solutions for all investor types. As an FCA-registered entity, ICONOMI ensures a secure, diversified, and carefully managed investment experience. With a decade of diverse experience, Peter's expertise includes product marketing, growth marketing, brand strategy, and customer experience. At ICONOMI, he sets the vision and strategy, driving the company's mission forward. Peter's passion for innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship fuels his commitment to leading teams that deliver impactful solutions. His success in scaling businesses, launching new products, and developing engaged customer communities is a testament to his transformative leadership. Peter is dedicated to lifelong learning, holding certifications in compliance and innovation and staying abreast of the latest in marketing strategy and leadership through courses from prestigious institutions.

John-Mark Young understands that serving clients' financial and investment needs begins with building solid and lasting partnerships. He focuses on listening to each client because he believes everyone's needs and financial goals for the future are unique. As a Financial Advisor & Chief Investment Ocer for Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers he puts his clients, and their needs, first. John-Mark is committed to helping you achieve your financial goals by oering a wide range of investment services and alternatives. Specializing in a planning-based approach to your money, he works with clients to design investment portfolios to meet their individual needs. Additionally, John-Mark is one of Dave Ramsey's Local Smartvestor Pros because, like Dave, his focus is on helping clients live their lives debt-free and financially independent. In 2019, Dave Ramsey invited John-Mark to join as a member of his Investing Advisory Council. Through this, John-Mark helps Dave and his team direct other advisors in serving Dave Ramsey Listeners. Before joining Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers as a Financial Advisor, John-Mark worked at PNC Wealth Management and Private Client Group for seven years, where he served as a Relationship Manager for affluent families in Northeast Ohio. John-Mark graduated from Campbellsville University in 2007 with a bachelor's degree in Organizational Management. He additionally completed his MBA in Finance from Ashland University in 2012. To live out our belief in running Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers as a fiduciary-based firm, John-Mark completed his AIF® (Accredited Investment Fiduciary) and RICP® (Retirement Income Certified Professional) designations in 2023. A firm believer in continuing education, John-Mark is working towards completing his Certified Financial Planner and Kingdom Advisor designations. John-Mark lives in Ontario, Ohio, with his wife Megan, Bella, Nash, and Landrie, their three children. Outside of work, John-Mark is a member of Westwood Alliance Church, where he has served as an Awana Youth Leader. He was also the assistant varsity girls' basketball coach at Mansfield Christian School for five years. He serves on the board of directors at The Christian Children's Home of Ohio, Inc and Buckeye State Credit Union.

Jessica helps young adults, professionals and entrepreneurs live the lifestyle they WANT by introducing foundational principal of personal finances and wealth building, they were never taught. As a licensed Social Worker, Jessica brings a unique holistic approach to helping clients identify the root to their poor financial habits in order to have peace and confidence, mentally and financially. website: theewealththerapist.com

Kimberly Ann Flynn, CFA is a highly accomplished President and partner at XA Investments, where she leads product and business development initiatives. Having previously served as the Senior Vice President and Head of Product Development for Nuveen Investments' Global Structured Products Group, Kim's leadership and dedication played a pivotal role in developing over 40 closed-end funds and raising approximately $13 billion in capital. Her broad expertise extends to various investment vehicles, including CEFs, interval funds, ETFs, UITs, and commodity pools, making her a versatile and sought-after professional.

Dr. Daniel Daniel is the crypto trainer that entry level investors deserve. With a keen focus on breaking down the barriers to entry, Dr. Daniel is committed to demystifying crypto investing and stopping the gatekeeping of knowledge that can make investing in crypto seem impossible to those who are beginners. Drawing on his extensive experience in teaching, training and a deep understanding of cryptocurrency investment, Dr. Daniel has developed "The Crypto Investing Program". He strips away the complexities and delivers straightforward, jargon-free explanations that allow beginner investors to get started in crypto, and set themselves up to excel. From the basics of buying crypto to navigating exchanges and understanding wallet security, Dr. Daniel's training program truly does set investors up for success. Dr. Daniel's unique standing as a trainer lies in his ability to make crypto accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or prior knowledge.

Byron's gift for translating the complexities of business financial principles with a focus on small businesses into easily understood communication has made him one of the most highly sought financial and business consultants. He is the Founder of CFO•AF, a financial services and business consulting firm specializing in industries ranging from construction to crypto. Byron is Chief Financial Officer for an INC 5000 company and is the fractional CFO of various companies with annual revenues from 3-25 Million. His certification in the Crypto, NFT, and the Metaverse space has led to many projects with DAOs and crypto companies and he is considered one of the first experts in crypto tax strategy.  Byron's true passion lies in helping small business owners expand their financial reach and success through various tools like the R&D tax credits, proactive tax plans, creative funding and high contact financial management.

GARRETT SUTTON has sold more than a million books to guide entrepreneurs and investors. His best sellers include Start Your Own Corporation, Loopholes of Real Estate, and Veil Not Fail. For more than 30 years, he has run his practice assisting entrepreneurs and real estate investors in protecting their assets. The companies he founded, Corporate Direct and Sutton Law Center, currently help more than 14,000 clients protect their assets and maintain their entities, especially under the new Corporate Transparency Act. Garrett also serves as a member of the elite group of “Rich Dad Advisors” for best selling author Robert Kiyosaki. A number of the books Garrett Sutton has authored are part of the best selling Rich Dad, Poor Dad wealth-building book series. Garrett is also the President of Sunn Stream, a new streaming platform focusing on kid's financial education and adult professional development. TED SUTTON is a licensed attorney who is the son of Garrett Sutton. Ted was born and raised in Reno, NV. He graduated from the University of Utah with a B.S. in Mining Engineering. During one of his summers, he spent three months working at a mine in Chile. This experience made him realize that legal matters interested him more than engineering ones. After graduating in 2018, he decided to attend law school the following year. Ted attended the University of Wyoming College of Law. In his third year, he served as the Student Director of the Business Entrepreneurship Practicum, where he helped clients form and maintain LLCs. He graduated in May 2022. Ted is now licensed to practice law in Wyoming and Nevada. Ted has been focused on making sure Corporate Direct's clients properly file under the Corporate Transparency Act. Ted is also the author of “Five Tricks To Teach Your Kids About Money” which you can download for free at www.sunnstream.com/fivetricks.

Robert Plotkin is a leading expert in leveraging AI to maximize creativity and innovation. His book, The Genie in the Machine, was the first (and still the only) work to address the impact of generative AI on innovation and the patent system. Recognized as a thought leader in human-AI collaboration, Robert empowers individuals with the essential skills they need to harness AI to supercharge their creative abilities.

Anne Lester is a retirement expert, author, media commentator, top-rated speaker and former Head of Retirement Solutions for JPMorgan Asset Management, where she worked almost 30 years. In 2020, Anne was recognized for her extraordinary lifetime contributions to Americans' economic security with the prestigious Ray Lillywhite Award. She is on a mission to help rising leaders retire on their time and target. A top-rated speaker, Lester addresses the under-45 crowd as well as professional audiences, including P&I, NAPA, Wharton, plus financial firms and their clients. Lester is also a media commentator and regular contributor on personal finance and retirement issues. She has been featured on outlets including Bloomberg TV, CNBC, Forbes, Business Insider, Wall Street Journal, The New York Times and Barron's. She also co-founded The Aspen Leadership Forum on Retirement Savings with AARP. Her book, Your Best Financial Life: Save Smart Now for the Future You Want (William Morrow, 2024), helps younger savers find long-term savings success by overcoming their behavioral biases.

Greg is an investment banker, angel investor, entrepreneur and regular host of a career podcast about the world of work and business. His day job involves advising corporate clients and business owners as they relentlessly pursue growth at all costs to earn the next million dollars. Working on Bay Street (the Wall Street of Canada) Greg is surrounded by high achieving professionals across law, accounting, venture capital, private equity and the big banks who work 80+ hour weeks to serve their clients. But at what cost to them? As the host of the Lifetime at Work podcast, Greg is on a mission to explore the world of work, the ups and downs behind taking big risks and the payoffs that come with it. Through his diverse work background, Greg brings a unique perspective that emphasizes the importance of purpose, fulfillment, and personal growth. As a food guy at heart, his time as co-founder, running a restaurant, catering and food e-commerce business during the pandemic was a big lesson in understanding the modern working world and today's “American Dream”.

Nolan Bradbury is a seasoned professional with a passion for helping business owners achieve their dreams through sound accounting and financial strategies. Nolan is on a mission to empower entrepreneurs to achieve their goals and unlock the full potential of their enterprises. He understands that a well-tuned and financially sound business is the key to success, and he works tirelessly to ensure his clients' businesses are positioned for growth and prosperity. Over the past two decades, Nolan has honed his expertise in both the public and private sectors, gaining invaluable insights into the intricacies of financial management. Now, he has come full circle, combining his accounting acumen with his genuine desire to make a positive impact on others' lives. Nolan serves as a valuable partner on the journey to success, offering personalized guidance and strategic advice to align ventures with aspirations. His deep understanding of both accounting principles and business dynamics allows him to provide comprehensive and tailored solutions, making him an indispensable asset to any business owner seeking to thrive in a competitive landscape. Through his unwavering commitment and passion for empowering others, Nolan Bradbury continues to leave a lasting impact on the businesses he supports, making him a sought-after expert in the realm of accounting and finance for entrepreneurs.

Derek Mazzarella, CFP® is a dedicated financial advisor committed to helping individuals pursue financial freedom. With a strong background in management from Bryant University, Derek's passion for assisting others led him to become a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®). With a track record of serving hundreds of clients, Derek's financial acumen earned him the prestigious Five Star Wealth Professional in 2018, 2019, 2021 and 2022.* His financial insights have been featured on local news stations as well as reputable financial publications. Derek's commitment to his community is evident through his support of local nonprofits.

Michael Charles is the founder of Credit Freedom Solutions. Michael began to witness the relentless efforts his parents made to provide him with every possible advantage they couldn't afford for themselves. This experience instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility. He realized that school wasn't just about grades; it was about honoring their sacrifices, so he pushed himself to excel. Even at the young age of 18, he took on a full-time job while still in high school, not just for his sake, but for theirs. But the most transformative part of Michael's journey was navigating the maze of credit. Initially, he feared the unknown and avoided credit. However, when he decided it was time to transition from being a renter to a homeowner, he understood that a lack of credit can be more challenging than bad credit. So, he embarked on a journey to build his credit profile strategically. This journey led him to a powerful realization: Cash is king, but credit is power.   Today, Michael's mission is simple: to debunk myths around credit and guide others on their financial journeys.

Dr. Rob Scranton teaches people how to use their current debts and expenses to grow their wealth outside of the traditional approaches like scrimping, saving, and denying themselves the lifestyle that they want. He leverages his extensive background in accounting, finance, and his experience as the former chief financial architect of a cutting-edge financial firm to offer a unique perspective on a highly effective financial strategy known as the Infinite Banking Concept, or IBC. With over two decades as a serial entrepreneur, Dr. Rob combines his expertise to showcase the power of this little-known approach.

Tony Steuer, CLU, LA, CPFFE is an internationally recognized financial preparedness advocate, podcaster, and award winning author. His newest book, The Get Ready! Blueprint: A 52-Week Guide to Changing the Way You Think About Money, presents The Get Ready Method, which he created to empower people to take control of their money while providing a framework for integrating financial products, financial advice and advisors. The Get Ready Method provides a framework for integrating financial products, financial advice and advisors. He is also an Advisor at Paperwork and Dingo Technologies. Meanwhile, he is a member of the ThinkAdvisor's LUMINARIES Class of 2022 as a Finalist in Thought Leadership & Education. He served as a long term member of The California Department of Insurance Curriculum Board as well. Steuer shares his trailblazing thought leadership on financial wellness as a contributor for ForbesAdvisor, expert content reviewer for Nerdwallet, and a guest/contributor for ABC's Seven on Your Side, Cheddar TV, New York Times, the Washington Post, Fast Company, Chicago Tribune, CNBC, and Fox Business News. His podcast, Get Ready Money Podcast, is another way to absorb his expertise.  Steuer's books, including The Get Ready Blueprint, Get Ready! A Step-By-Step Planner for Maintaining Your Financial First Aid Kit, Insurance Made Easy, Questions and Answers on Life Insurance, The Questions and Answers on Life Insurance Workbook, The Questions and Answers on Disability Insurance Workbook and The Questions and Answers on Insurance Planner, have won numerous awards, including four awards for Excellence in Financial Literacy Education. His books are used in college courses, financial planning certification courses, insurance agency training and financial planning firm resource libraries.

Spencer Sherman (MBA, CFP®) is a leading financial advisor, author, and public speaker, renowned for his mindfulness-based approach to money. As the founder and former CEO of Abacus, a values-driven financial consulting firm managing over $3 billion in assets, Spencer has transformed the lives of his clients and helped them achieve financial success on their own terms. Spencer challenges the stereotypical image of an MBA. He wears a suit and tie, but also leads guided meditations on money, participates in transformative events like Wisdom 2.0 and attends several week long silent meditation retreats each year. Contrary to the conventional belief that money is just about facts and figures, Spencer asserts that emotional intelligence is paramount. As a financial advisor, he has guided countless clients to grow their wealth. In his view, formal training and expertise take a backseat to the profound impact of emotional intelligence – which allows individuals to make sound financial decisions rooted in balance, kindness, compassion, and joy. https://www.spencer-sherman.com/meet-spencer

Michael Frew worked for two decades as an engineer, developer, and software architect on hundreds of consulting engagements with corporations including Lockheed Martin's Artificial Intelligence Labs, IBM, Microsoft, Amazon, Salesforce, and FireEye/Mandiant. He received his B.S. and MBA in Business and Economics while studying in China, Hong Kong, and The Netherlands, as well as several post-graduate information security certifications. Following his corporate career, Michael pivoted to Acquisition Entrepreneurship, acquiring software/SaaS companies, and using his boot-strapped funds to purchase multiple 6 and 7-figure businesses from brokers such as Empire Flippers, FE International, and Quiet Light Brokerage. Currently, Michael manages a growing 8-figure portfolio of cloud-based software companies, collectively generating a 7-figure pre-tax income annually. Michael's insights on digital business acquisitions and operations have been featured in dozens of media outlets like FE International, Indie Hackers, and Empire Flippers. https://www.michaelfrew.com/weinvested/

Tyler Nicholls, a dynamic and seasoned entrepreneur with a passion for making a significant impact, is dedicated to serving people on a large scale through innovative software solutions. A graduate of Brigham Young University with a degree in Business Strategy, Tyler possesses a strong academic background that has informed his entrepreneurial pursuits. His dedication to education led him to a teaching career in 7th grade math at inner-city schools through the Teach for America program. To further expand his expertise, Tyler pursued a Master's degree from Boston University. As an avid investor and personal finance aficionado, Tyler has been deeply influenced by his father, a life-long financial advisor. This familial connection to finance has fueled his passion for financial literacy and its importance in today's world. Tyler's love for inventing software that creates a meaningful impact inspired him to establish Kudosy, a groundbreaking platform designed to empower individuals and families with financial knowledge. Through Kudosy, Tyler aspires to address the financial literacy crisis in America and bolster families worldwide by providing them with the tools and resources necessary to make informed financial decisions. His commitment to fostering financial well-being extends beyond the platform, as he actively engages with communities, sharing his expertise and insights to create a lasting impact. https://kudosy.com/

Jordan Berry is the Founder of Laundromat Resource and a multi-Laundromat store owner. Jordan works hard to make LaundromatResource.com a community that is dedicated to teaching one another, learning from one another, growing together, and succeeding together! #laundromat #laundromatbusiness

BEYOND FORMATION offers a holistic, hands-on, Agile approach to building, running, and funding a world-class business into easy-to-follow, customizable, results-oriented steps and strategies. GEOFF BLAISDELL teaches audiences how to align stakeholders, turn innovation into action, and attract talent and capital at any stage of growth.

Ann Garcia, aka The College Financial Lady, has helped thousands of families save millions of dollars on college. A fee-only Certified Financial Planner and managing partner of Independent Progressive Advisors, Ann specializes in helping families balance the desire to support their children's dreams with the reality of funding their own lives. Her book How to Pay for College is available from bookstores everywhere; its companion online course is available now and has an affiliate option for podcast hosts. Early in Ann's career as a financial advisor, she heard the same two questions again and again from her clients. One group asked, “How can we possibly afford to save for college and retirement?” Another group asked, “How can I save for retirement when I'm paying so much on my student loans every month?” In working with families– including her own– to plan for college, Ann has learned that a good college plan is equal parts good parenting and good financial planning. Ann has been featured in the New York Times, US News & World Report, CNNMoney and countless other media. Ann and her husband, Bob, live inPortland, OR. Their twins will graduate debt-free from college next year. https://howtopayforcollege.com/

Brennan Schlagbaum is the Founder and CEO of BudgetDog, a financial literacy company that focuses on helping individuals achieve the financial freedom they deserve. Brennan has successfully achieved financial freedom by paying off over $300,000 in debt and building a successful financial education business. Brennan has been able to use his education and innovative approach to overcome several financial obstacles. Brennan also graduated with a double major in finance and accounting from the University of Louisville in 2014. Budgetdog.com

TAYLOR LOHT is an experienced Multifamily and Self Storage real estate investor, who decided to break into real estate in 2015 following Wall Street's major correction that year. In the time since he made the shift, Taylor has acquired, invested in, partnered on, or otherwise had a hand in over $250 million dollars in Multifamily & Self Storage Real Estate Investment Deals. Taylor began investing in real estate after becoming tired of the constant ups and downs of the stock market, and found real estate as the best way to create sustainable, long term wealth and passive cash flow. He now teaches investors how to escape the Wall Street Casino and build wealth on Main Street by investing in real estate.

For over 40 years, DR. KUNI BEASLEY has been helping students reach their college goals. Since 2011,Dr. Beasley and his team have helped students earn over $300 million in scholarships and grants, with students admitted to the top institutions in the country to include the Ivy League (Harvard, Cornell, etc.), Service Academies (West Point, Annapolis, etc.), and Top Tier colleges (MIT, Stanford, Duke, etc.). His SAT/ACT Prep program has been used in public and private schools in over 20 states. Dr. Beasley was the Dean of the New College Preparatory Academy with 22 sites across the country from Springfield, MA, to Hot Springs, AR, to Palm Springs, CA. Dr. Beasley has a BS from Texas Christian University (Go Frogs), an MBA from Oklahoma City University, a Doctor of Ministry from Tyndale Seminary, and Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Arlington. He went to college 22 years and paid for only one semester.

Tim Lyons is the co-founder & managing partner of CitySide Capital LLC, a real estate syndication and investment company that focuses on commercial real estate assets that yield strong returns for investors. Tim is also a lieutenant in the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) where he has served for 17+ years. Before becoming a real estate investor he also worked part-time as an emergency room nurse (RN) at a level 1 trauma center. Tim's initial goal with real estate was to create passive income and in turn, be able to spend more time with his wife and three girls. After partnering on a small multifamily property, he saw first-hand the power of real estate investing as an opportunity to create passive income and build wealth for his family. He started CitySide Capital with the goal of not only growing his own portfolio but also to help others realize the power that real estate investing can have on creating wealth. You can purchase his book here: Bringing Value, Solving Problems and Leaving a Legacy

Dawn is the founder of “Productive PressureTM”, a philosophy and method that masterfully balances the drive for success with a safeguard against burnout. Her experiences in nurturing her veterinary practice, spearheading growth, fostering strategic alliances, and orchestrating its successful acquisition by a large aggregator, have fortified her with an understanding of the intricate dynamics of business expansion and exit planning. Armed with an MBA and decades of hands-on experience, Dawn has worked with hundreds of practice owners, immersing herself in an in-depth analysis of profit and loss statements and balance sheets. Her diligent exploration uncovered a universal thread of challenges faced by businesses of all sizes and across various locations. It inspired her to design the Practice Freedom Accelerator method, an innovative system that empowers practice owners to step back from being the epicenter of their businesses, freeing up precious time to pursue passions and increase practice value for future transitions.

Since earning a bachelor's degree in finance, cutting his teeth in the financial industry, and earning a master's degree in environmental science and management, Owen's been on a professional rampage, pushing complacency and bureaucracy aside and decarbonizing our economy at an impressive rate. As a Global Energy Manager for a Fortune 500 company for three years, Owen implemented $60 million of clean technology. Combining his experience in fuel cells, solar PV, energy storage, LED lighting, and HVAC optimization, Owen left to launch lumeo, a niche ESCO. Within three years, lumeo hit eight figures in revenue and helped forty school districts implement energy efficiency and renewable energy. After a successful exit from lumeo, Owen looked for his next opportunity. After nearly a decade in the clean technology industry, Owen concluded there's too much attention given to developing new clean technologies and not enough focus on rapid deployment of existing technology. It doesn't matter how efficient a solar module is if only 3% of American buildings have them installed. Owen started ZNE Capital and pivoted to buying commercial real estate for the purpose of decarbonizing it. In just three years, Owen acquired and partially decarbonized $96M of multifamily properties. While ZNE Capital proves to have a successful business model, the rampant inauthenticity within the institutional impact investing space made it challenging for ZNE Capital to make impact at scale. Owen founded Rayven to decarbonize existing buildings at scale. Rayven is the world's first net zero real estate investment platform. Every property we buy is converted to true net zero (no offsets involved). By partnering with thousands of authentic, retail impact investors, Owen, Rayven, and every single investor will decarbonize the world, one apartment building at a time.

Jermane Cheathem is the founder of Creators Learn. He helps solopreneurs start & scale their own lending business using the system he created to close over $50 million in sales.