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"My rewrite started twice.” That's how Jamie Lima describes his story — first as a child watching his parents' marriage fall apart, and later when he experienced divorce himself. After 20 years as a financial planner, Jamie knew the numbers. But going through divorce taught him something no professional training could. Today, he's a CFP, CDFA, Certified Mediator, founder of Allegiant Divorce Solutions, and co-founder & CEO of SecureSplit. We talk about divorce, money, starting over, taking risks, entrepreneurship, and intentionally designing your next chapter. Because sometimes the hardest chapter of our lives becomes the one that changes everything.Follow: Jamie LimaInstagram - Allegiant Divorce Solutions Instagram - SecureSplit
Retirement does not always happen on the same timeline for both spouses. One person may feel burned out and ready to leave a demanding career, while the other still enjoys working. That difference affects more than a retirement date, it can reshape household cash flow, healthcare coverage, taxes, Social Security decisions, and the way a couple imagines life together.In this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, we discuss what happens when one spouse wants to retire while the other continues working. Casey Smith and Senior Financial Advisor Shawna Theriault, CFP®, CPA, CDFA®, explore both the financial calculations and personal conversations that help couples decide whether retiring at different times fits their shared plan.Related Podcast Episodes: Ep 353. Is $2 Million Enough to Retire? What about $3 Million?Ep 293. Retirement for Business Owners: Selling Your Business or Passing It OnRelated Financial Education Videos:Financial Habits to Avoid in RetirementHow Much Risk Should You Take in Your Retirement Portfolio?Learn More:Founded in 2001, Wiser Wealth Management is a fee-only fiduciary financial planning and wealth management firm helping individuals, families, and business owners make informed financial decisions.Have questions about your financial plan? Schedule a Complimentary Consultation to discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. We are local to Atlanta, but can meet with you virtually from wherever you are. Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, and the tax impact on inheritance, and more!Stay Connected:Follow Wiser Wealth Management on Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TwitterSubscribe to A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel for more financial education videos and podcast episodes. This podcast was produced by ...
Episode 147 - The Emotional and Financial Complexities of Divorce with Leah Hadley, AFC®, CDFA®, MAFF® - Making major decisions while also coping with stress, uncertainty and changes in their personal lives.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only. The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees. We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.
Are you approaching retirement and wondering whether your investments, spending, taxes, estate plan, and future goals are all working together? A retirement plan should do more than track portfolio performance. It should help you understand how your money can support the lifestyle you want, while accounting for income needs, taxes, market risk, family priorities, and changing circumstances. In this episode, Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, explains how to build a retirement plan around the life you want rather than letting investment returns drive your decisions. He shares how cash flow, time horizons, risk tolerance, tax planning, estate planning, and investment decisions can work together to support both near-term needs and long-term priorities. Larry discusses: Why retirement planning should begin with your goals, priorities, and vision for the years ahead How different time horizons can influence the way short-term and long-term assets are invested How creating a regular retirement paycheck can make the transition away from employment income feel more familiar Why taxes, Roth conversions, beneficiary designations, insurance, and estate planning need to be coordinated How retirement progress can be measured by lifestyle, financial flexibility, family priorities, and long-term goals And more! Connect with Larry Heller: (631) 248-3600 Schedule a 20-Minute Call Heller Wealth Management LinkedIn: Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, CPA YouTube: Retirement Unlocked with Larry Heller, CFP® Heller Wealth Management is now part of Savant Wealth Management. Savant is a Registered Investment Advisor. This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment advice. Effective March 31, 2026, Heller Wealth Management joined Savant Wealth Management (“Savant”). A copy of Savant's current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available at www.savantwealth.com/disclosure-brochures/
Estate planning for a blended family is rarely as simple as deciding who receives each asset. The harder questions involve timing, control, changing relationships, and what happens after one spouse dies. A plan may look complete on paper while leaving room for outcomes no one intended.In this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, Senior Financial Advisor Shawna Theriault, CFP®, CPA, CDFA®, and Estate Planning Attorney Arun Gupta, discuss estate planning for blended families. They explore how family dynamics, asset ownership, beneficiary designations, trusts, and financial powers of attorney can affect whether an estate plan works as intended.Related Podcast Episodes: Ep 346. Estate Planning Coordination: How Your Attorney, CPA, & Financial Advisor Work TogetherEp 314. The Simple Estate Planning Error That Could Hurt Your FamilyRelated Financial Education Videos:What is the Difference Between a Will and a Trust?What is a QTIP Trust and Who Needs One?Other Links:AG LawLearn More:Founded in 2001, Wiser Wealth Management is a fee-only fiduciary financial planning and wealth management firm helping individuals, families, and business owners make informed financial decisions.Have questions about your financial plan? Schedule a Complimentary Consultation to discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. We are local to Atlanta, but can meet with you virtually from wherever you are. Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, and the tax impact on inheritance, and more!Stay Connected:Follow Wiser Wealth Management on Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TwitterSubscribe to A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel for more financial education videos and podcast episodes. This podcast was produced by ...
HOW TO AVOID LIFESTYLE CREEP WHEN YOUR INCOME INCREASES WATCH ON YOUTUBE TYLER KLUGE CFP®, ChFEB℠, CPWA®, CDFA®, CEPS Senior Financial Planner TESSA HALL Media and Communications Specialist About This Episode Earning more money can create more opportunities to save and invest, but it can also make it easier to spend more of your income. In this episode of Healthy, Wealthy & Wise, Tessa Hall speaks with BWFA Senior Financial Planner Tyler Kluge about how lifestyle creep can affect long-term financial goals. They discuss why visible signs of success do not necessarily reflect wealth, how promotions and higher incomes can establish new spending habits, and why financial decisions should be considered within the context of your broader goals. Tyler also explains how recognizing tradeoffs, evaluating recurring expenses, and becoming more intentional about purchases can help keep lifestyle choices from quietly competing with long-term savings. Learn how BWFA can help you build a financial plan that keeps you on track without constant attention. Explore our Financial Planning services or schedule a complimentary consultation to discuss your goals. Frequently Asked Questions About How to Avoid Lifestyle Creep What is lifestyle creep? Lifestyle creep occurs when spending gradually increases as income rises, making a higher standard of living feel normal over time. Tyler explains that someone receiving a major promotion may be saving more dollars than ever before, yet increasing spending so dramatically that the additional income does not translate into a proportional increase in wealth. Does earning more money automatically help you build more wealth? No. A higher income creates greater financial capacity, but the outcome depends on how that income is used. Tyler notes that savings percentages should be considered within the context of income, spending, existing assets, time until retirement, and other individual circumstances rather than relying solely on a generic rule of thumb. How can lifestyle choices affect your financial goals? Lifestyle choices create tradeoffs because financial resources are finite. Spending more on a home, cars, private school, travel, or other priorities is not inherently wrong, but those decisions can leave less available for goals such as retirement. Tyler recommends evaluating what matters most and determining whether current spending supports those priorities. When can a luxury purchase become part of your normal spending? Some purchases can establish a new baseline for future spending. Tyler uses upgrading a vehicle as an example: once someone becomes accustomed to a more expensive vehicle, a less expensive option may seem less appealing. Recurring subscriptions can create a similar effect by turning individually small expenses into ongoing commitments that add up over time. How can you make more intentional spending decisions? Start by asking why you want the purchase and whether it provides meaningful value for you or your family. Tyler suggests distinguishing between genuine needs and wants, while Tessa discusses creating a waiting period before buying something. Taking time before purchasing can help determine whether something supports your priorities or is simply an impulse.
In this episode, Vic Colella, CFP®, CDFA®, and Courtney Cubin, CFP®, take a look at market bubbles and why they continue to capture investors' attention. We revisit some memorable examples throughout history, from tulip mania and the dot-com era to the housing market, meme stocks, and crypto, and explore the behaviors and emotions that tend to show up along the way. We also discuss the questions surrounding artificial intelligence today and share how a thoughtful, diversified investment plan can help investors stay disciplined through changing markets.If you have suggestions for episode topics or would like to give us feedback, we would love to hear from you! Please email us at podcast@woodwardadvisors.com.
How do you sell a trade business and turn decades of work into retirement income? If you're a contractor, electrician, plumber, landscaper, HVAC professional, or another skilled-trade owner thinking about retirement, the decisions you make before the sale may affect what your business is worth, how much you keep after taxes, and how the proceeds support your retirement. In this episode, Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, explains what business owners should consider before selling a trade business. He covers how buyers may determine a company’s value, why clean financial records and documented processes can support a sale, and how reducing owner dependence may make the company easier to transfer. Larry also examines how the sale structure, capital gains taxes, installment payments, retained equity, retirement income planning, and estate considerations work together. Beyond the financial questions, he explores how owners can prepare for their identity, purpose, and daily life after leaving the company. Larry discusses: How far in advance you should begin planning to sell a trade business What buyers may review when determining how much a business is worth Why clean financial records and documented processes can support a future sale How owner dependence may affect business value and the transition to a new owner And more! Connect with Larry Heller: (631) 248-3600 Schedule a 20-Minute Call Heller Wealth Management LinkedIn: Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, CPA YouTube: Retirement Unlocked with Larry Heller, CFP® Heller Wealth Management is now part of Savant Wealth Management. Savant is a Registered Investment Advisor. This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment advice. Effective March 31, 2026, Heller Wealth Management joined Savant Wealth Management (“Savant”). A copy of Savant's current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available at www.savantwealth.com/disclosure-brochures/
HOW CAN AUTOMATING YOUR FINANCES HELP BUILD WEALTH? WATCH ON YOUTUBE TYLER KLUGE CFP®, ChFEB℠, CPWA®, CDFA®, CEPS Senior Financial Planner TESSA HALL Media and Communications Specialist About This Episode Building wealth does not always require making more financial decisions. In fact, constantly checking your investments, reacting to market movements, or deciding what to do with extra cash can create more opportunities for emotional mistakes. In this episode of Healthy, Wealthy & Wise, Tessa Hall speaks with BWFA Senior Financial Planner Tyler Kluge about the financial habits that can make staying on track easier. They discuss what to automate, how often to review your investments, where to keep emergency savings, and why a well-designed financial strategy should not require constant adjustments. Tyler also explains how regular planning conversations can help account for changing goals without abandoning a long-term investment strategy. Learn how BWFA can help you build a financial plan that keeps you on track without constant attention. Explore our Financial Planning services or schedule a complimentary consultation to discuss your goals. Frequently Asked Questions About Building Wealth Through Financial Habits How can automating your savings help you build wealth? Automating savings can help make consistent progress toward financial goals without requiring a new decision every month. Tyler recommends first establishing appropriate cash reserves and then considering automatic contributions to retirement plans, IRAs, brokerage accounts, or other investment accounts based on your goals. Automation can also reduce the chance that money intended for long-term savings is unintentionally spent. How often should you check your investments? How often you check your investments should depend partly on how you respond to market movements, but Tyler suggests that most investors do not need to check them daily. Constantly monitoring markets can create stress and tempt investors to react to short-term changes. He suggests that monthly may be sufficient for many people, while broader financial planning reviews can occur every six months or at least annually. Does reviewing your portfolio mean you need to make changes? No. A portfolio review does not automatically mean your investment strategy needs to change. Tyler explains that major shifts are relatively infrequent, while regular check-ins provide an opportunity to discuss changes in income and expenses, upcoming purchases, retirement withdrawals, or other financial goals. Those changes can then be evaluated within the existing long-term strategy. How much money should you keep in your checking account? The appropriate amount depends on your spending and financial situation. Still, Tyler suggests roughly one to one-and-a-half months of expenses as a general guideline for a checking account used to pay bills. Additional emergency savings may be better suited to an account that earns a competitive rate, such as a high-yield savings or money market account, while remaining accessible when needed. Why can paying less attention sometimes make you a better investor? Paying less attention can reduce opportunities to make emotional decisions based on short-term market movements. Tyler points to periods of rapid market declines followed by sharp rebounds as a reminder that reacting to a single difficult day can interfere with a long-term strategy. The goal is not to ignore your finances, but to combine intentional reviews with a strategy designed to withstand normal market fluctuations.
A divorce settlement can look good on paper and still create financial problems that don't become obvious until months or even years later. Sometimes nobody is trying to hide money or take advantage of anyone. The problem is simply that the people making the decisions didn't have the complete financial picture.In this episode, Strategic Divorce Consultant Mardi Winder talks with Sue Plisch, CFP® and CDFA®, founder of Resilient Divorce Solutions, about some of the financial mistakes she sees people make during divorce and why understanding the details can matter just as much as agreeing on the numbers.Sue explains why divorcing individuals often need to think of themselves as the CEO of their own divorce and understand the different roles their professional team members play. She and Mardi discuss joint debt, the potential consequences of leaving financial obligations intertwined after divorce, tax concerns when one spouse has traditionally handled the finances, and why a child support or maintenance calculation is only as accurate as the income information entered into it.They also explore why bonuses, rental income, businesses, stock options, RSUs, and other forms of compensation can easily be overlooked when determining someone's true financial picture. The goal isn't to make divorce finances more complicated. It's to understand what you're agreeing to before you agree to it.Questions We ExploreQ: Why can a 50/50 division of assets still produce an unequal financial outcome?A: Assets and obligations that appear equal on paper may have very different financial characteristics. Understanding taxes, debt, liquidity, and how each piece affects your life after divorce can provide a much clearer picture of what a proposed settlement actually means.Q: Should your divorce attorney also be your financial expert?A: Not necessarily. Sue explains that attorneys bring essential legal expertise, but not every attorney has specialized financial training. Understanding which professional should handle which part of the divorce can help you get the information you need without expecting one person to do everything.Q: Why is leaving joint debt after divorce potentially risky?A: A divorce decree may assign responsibility for a debt to one former spouse, but that doesn't necessarily change the underlying agreement with the creditor. Sue discusses why completely disentangling financial lives whenever possible deserves careful attention.Q: Can child support or maintenance calculations be wrong even when an official calculator was used?A: The calculation depends on the information entered. Sue calls it the “garbage in, garbage out” principle. If bonuses, business income, rental properties, stock compensation, or other sources of income aren't included, the resulting number may not reflect the complete financial picture.Q: What if you're worried about tax decisions your spouse made during the marriage?A: Sue and Mardi discuss why this is an issue to raise with qualified tax and financial professionals, particularly when a business, unreported income, unusual withdrawals, or other concerns are involved. The important point is not to ignore those concerns simply because your spouse has always handled the taxes.This conversation is for general educational and informational purposes and is not individualized financial, tax, or legal advice.About the Guest:Sue Plisch, CFP®, CDFA®, is the founder of Resilient Divorce Solutions, LLC, where she helps individuals and couples navigate divorce with financial clarity and confidence. Drawing on her background in mathematics, financial planning, and divorce finance, she translates complex financial decisions into practical, understandable choices. Her goal is to help people make informed decisions that support long-term financial security and a stronger future. For Sue's gift: https://resilientdivorcesolutions.com/To connect with Sue:Website: https://resilientdivorcesolutions.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smartsplitsue/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ResilientDivorceSolutionsAbout the HostMardi Winder is a Strategic Divorce Consultant and High-Conflict Divorce Coach who helps high-achieving individuals navigate divorce with clarity, confidence, and control. Drawing on more than 30 years of experience in mediation, divorce coaching and conflict resolution, she supports clients in making smart decisions while reducing emotional and financial fallout, particularly in high-conflict, high-asset and complex divorces. Mardi is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and the Strategic Divorce Directory, LLC.For Mardi's gift: The Resilience Building Blueprint: A 28-Day Journey To A Stronger You https://www.divorcecoach4women.com/rbbConnect with Mardi on Social Media:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4womenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinder/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4womenThanks for Listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the PodcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave an Apple Podcast ReviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.
CDFA Secretary Karen Ross highlights Queensland's approach to agricultural innovation, investment and on-farm technology.
Are you approaching retirement and wondering whether your spending, investments, taxes, insurance, estate plan, and retirement lifestyle are all working together? A retirement plan should do more than help you reach a savings goal. It should support the life you want while preparing for changing markets, rising costs, healthcare needs, and a retirement that could last 30 years. In this episode, Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, shares a six-part retirement planning checklist designed to help people approaching retirement or already retired review the financial and personal decisions that can shape their future. Larry discusses: How much you may be able to spend in retirement without constantly worrying about running out of money Why taxes, insurance, and estate planning deserve regular review How purpose and lifestyle planning can be just as important as your finances How tax-efficient withdrawal strategies and Roth conversions may help reduce taxes throughout retirement Why reviewing your estate plan, insurance coverage, and life after work can help you retire with greater confidence And more! Resources: Mastering Retirement Withdrawals: Expert Tips for Smart Distribution Planning (Ep. 169) Retirement Unlocked: Managing Sequence of Returns Risk (Ep. 171) Why Taxes Often Go Up in Retirement and What Planning Ahead Can Change (Ep. 194) From Net Worth to Cash Flow, Rethinking Retirement Strategy (Ep. 197) IRMAA Explained, How Income Decisions Today Can Increase Medicare Costs Tomorrow (Ep. 199) Connect with Larry Heller: (631) 248-3600 Schedule a 20-Minute Call Heller Wealth Management LinkedIn: Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, CPA YouTube: Retirement Unlocked with Larry Heller, CFP® Heller Wealth Management is now part of Savant Wealth Management. Savant is a Registered Investment Advisor. This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment advice. Effective March 31, 2026, Heller Wealth Management joined Savant Wealth Management (“Savant”). A copy of Savant's current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available at www.savantwealth.com/disclosure-brochures/
CDFA is accepting concept proposals for projects eligible for $100,000 to $600,000 in Specialty Crop Block Grant funding.
Making more money does not automatically mean keeping more of it. For high-income couples, taxes often become more complicated as compensation rises, investment income grows, employer benefits expand, and multiple tax rules begin interacting at the same time. The challenge is not finding a loophole that makes taxes disappear. It is understanding which planning decisions are available and how those decisions fit into a household's broader financial picture.In this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, Senior Financial Advisor Shawna Theriault, CFP®, CPA, CDFA®, and Financial Advisor William Medcalf, CFP®, CBDA, break down practical tax-planning strategies high-income couples may want to consider.Related Podcast Episodes: Ep 331. Crypto, Retirement, and Taxes: What's the Strategy?Ep 308. The Silent Tax: How Inflation Erodes Your RetirementRelated Financial Education Videos:Second Home Considerations: Tax Implications of Multiple ResidencesWhat is Tax-Loss Harvesting?Learn More:Founded in 2001, Wiser Wealth Management is a fee-only fiduciary financial planning and wealth management firm helping individuals, families, and business owners make informed financial decisions.Have questions about your financial plan? Schedule a Complimentary Consultation to discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. We are local to Atlanta, but can meet with you virtually from wherever you are. Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, and the tax impact on inheritance, and more!Stay Connected:Follow Wiser Wealth Management on Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TwitterSubscribe to A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel for more financial education videos and podcast episodes. This podcast was produced by ...
In this episode, Vic Colella, CFP®, CDFA®, and Alex Richani, CFP®, take a closer look at Trump Accounts, a new savings option for children. We walk through how the accounts work, who may be eligible for the free money that's making headlines, and some important considerations to keep in mind before contributing additional dollars. We also discuss how Trump Accounts stack up against 529 plans and UTMA accounts and why your goals should ultimately guide where you save.If you have suggestions for episode topics or would like to give us feedback, we would love to hear from you! Please email us at podcast@woodwardadvisors.com.
CDFA and USDA are responding after HLB was detected in a residential citrus tree in Calexico.
Disclaimer:Duly registered and duly licensed financial professionals offer securities through Equitable Advisors, LLC (NY, NY 212-314-4600), member FINRA, SIPC (Equitable Financial Advisors in MI & TN); offer investment advisory products and services through Equitable Advisors, LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor; and offer annuity and insurance products through Equitable Network, LLC (Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California, LLC; Equitable Network Insurance Agency of Utah, LLC; Equitable Network of Puerto Rico, Inc.).Equitable Advisors and Equitable Network are affiliates and do not offer tax or legal advice or services. Professionals holding the CDFA® credential must follow strict ethical rules and practice standards. This designation is not a license to practice law, as they are not permitted to give legal advice. Well Lived Wealth is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors or Equitable Network. PPG- 9009031.1(7/26)(Exp.7/30)In this episode, Holly Draper sits down with Molly Ward, a certified financial planner and certified divorce financial analyst (CDFA) and founder of Well Lived Wealth in Houston, to talk about why financial engagement — not just financial literacy — determines how well someone comes through a divorce. Molly shares her own divorce story and explains how the CDFA credential complements a family lawyer's work by translating the legal process into a concrete financial roadmap: Can I keep the house? Will I be okay? What does my life actually look like now?The conversation centers on Strangers by Belle Burden, whose account of "financial disengagement" in marriage — becoming what Molly calls a "financial ostrich" or "financial hostage" — mirrors what Molly and Holly both see in practice. They discuss the slow slide from financial co-pilot to passenger, why it disproportionately affects women, and practical takeaways for family lawyers: red flags to watch for at intake, when to loop in a CDFA, and how the book has fueled renewed interest in prenups (the "Burden Bump").In This Episode, You'll Discover:• What a CDFA is and how it differs from a CFP• The “financial ostrich” and “financial hostage” patterns Molly sees in her practice• Why each spouse should have their own CDFA• How Belle Burden's book Strangers illustrates the slow slide into disengagement• Molly's take on prenups and postnups, and the “trigger clause• When and how family lawyers should loop in a CDFA
Do you feel like your ex might be hiding money in the divorce? If so, you might be considering hiring a forensic accountant. My guests in this episode are Catherine Shanahan, CDFA® and Karen Chellew, Co-founders of My Divorce Solution, who explain what exactly a forensic accountant does, and talk about when and when you don't need one.
Grower-funded board commits $820,000 to ongoing emergency response
A lot of people think their estate planning is complete once the legal documents are signed. But for retirees and families with complex assets, those documents may not be enough if trusts, beneficiary designations, account ownership, and tax planning aren't coordinated. In this episode, Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, speaks with Dominick J. Parillo, JD, CFP®, Director of Wealth Transfer at Savant Wealth Management, about the estate planning details families often overlook. They explain how an unfunded revocable living trust can still lead to probate, why beneficiary designations may override a will, and how account ownership can affect New York estate tax planning. They also discuss powers of attorney, healthcare documents, inheritance protection, trustee selection, and why your estate plan should continue to evolve as your family, finances, and wishes change. Larry and Dom discuss: Why signing estate planning documents doesn't mean the planning is finished Why funding a revocable living trust is important for avoiding probate How beneficiary designations and account ownership may override a will What married couples should know about New York estate tax planning How continuing trusts and trustee selection may help protect an inheritance And more! Resources: Is It Time to Update Your Estate Plan? Why State Estate Tax Planning Matters Connect with Dominick J. Parillo: Dominick J. Parillo, JD, CFP® | Savant Wealth Management LinkedIn: Dominick J. Parillo LinkedIn: Savant Wealth Management Connect with Larry Heller: (631) 248-3600 Schedule a 20-Minute Call Heller Wealth Management LinkedIn: Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, CPA YouTube: Retirement Unlocked with Larry Heller, CFP® About Our Guest: Dominick “Dom” J. Parillo, JD, CFP®, is Director of Wealth Transfer at Savant Wealth Management. Based in Manassas, Virginia, he helps high-net-worth families and business owners coordinate estate planning, trust administration, wealth transfer, and legacy decisions. Heller Wealth Management is now part of Savant Wealth Management. Savant is a Registered Investment Advisor. This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment advice. Effective March 31, 2026, Heller Wealth Management joined Savant Wealth Management (“Savant”). A copy of Savant's current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available at www.savantwealth.com/disclosure-brochures/
Doing Divorce Different A Podcast Guide to Doing Divorce Differently
Financial confidence during divorce starts with understanding your budget, gathering financial information, and learning how to negotiate without fear.If you don't understand your marital finances—or you've always relied on your spouse to manage the money—you are not alone. Divorce can suddenly require you to make decisions about budgets, retirement accounts, property division, spousal support, taxes, and your home while you are also experiencing grief and emotional overwhelm.In this episode of Doing Divorce Different, Lesa Koski sits down with Certified Divorce Financial Analyst Rhonda Nordick to explain how women can build financial confidence during divorce one small step at a time.Rhonda shares how her childhood experiences shaped her relationship with money and eventually inspired her to help women advocate for themselves financially. She explains why lasting confidence requires both knowledge and practical experience—and why trying to absorb too much financial information while experiencing divorce trauma can leave women feeling even more overwhelmed.You'll learn the first financial step to take when divorce becomes a possibility, how your current and projected budget affects property division and support, and how to identify gaps in financial information.Rhonda also introduces her BRIDGE Method for organizing the financial divorce process and teaches her powerful ANOT negotiation formula. This four-part approach helps women communicate assertively, make clear requests, and negotiate without becoming aggressive or abandoning their own needs.If fear, avoidance, or people-pleasing has kept you from participating fully in financial conversations, this episode will help you begin developing financial confidence during divorce. You do not need to understand everything today. You need the right information, the right support, and the courage to take your next small step.Listen, save, and share this conversation with someone who wants to make informed financial decisions and build financial confidence during divorce.Timestamps:(00:00) Introduction to financial confidence during divorce(01:45) Rhonda Nordick's personal money story and Bold Beginnings(05:10) How childhood experiences shape our beliefs about money(08:20) Lesa's experience with financial fear and unexpected retirement(10:15) Why confidence requires both financial knowledge and experience(13:05) Managing money decisions while experiencing divorce trauma(15:45) The first financial step: Understanding your spending and budget(18:20) How budgeting affects support, property division, and your home(20:15) Rhonda's BRIDGE Method for organizing divorce finances(23:30) Identifying missing information, income gaps, taxes, and liquidity(25:35) Why women may agree to unfair terms to avoid conflict(27:00) The ANOT negotiation formula explained(29:15) Example: Negotiating a home buyout or refinancing timeline(32:00) How people pleasers can communicate assertively without aggression(34:15) Using negotiation and communication skills beyond divorce(36:05) Final encouragement for building financial confidenceKey Takeaways:Financial confidence grows when financial knowledge is combined with practical experience and small successes.Your first step should be understanding your current spending and estimating your post-divorce expenses.Accurate budgets and financial documents are essential when evaluating support, property division, housing, taxes, and liquidity.Rhonda's ANOT formula—Acknowledge, Naturally, Obviously, and The Ask—helps you negotiate kindly and assertively.You don't need to learn everything at once; focus on the information required for the next decision in front of you.Guest Bio:Rhonda Nordick is a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, educator, speaker, and author featured in the book Bold Beginnings. Drawing on her personal money story and years of teaching experience, Rhonda helps women understand complex financial information, evaluate divorce settlement options, and advocate for themselves without apology. She is featured in this episode because of her practical, trauma-informed approach to building financial confidence and negotiating during divorce.Resource Links:Rhonda Nordick's website and services: https://womensfinancialwellnesscenter.com/Schedule a Divorce Clarity Call with Lesa Koski: [Insert booking link]Learn more about OsteoStrong Minnesota: https://osteostrongmn.com/affiliate-referral-koski/Learn more about Soberlink for divorce and family law: https://www.soberlink.com/divorce/family-law?utm_source=affiliatelink&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=lesa-koski-affiliatelinkDisclosure: Some resource links may be affiliate links. If you use one of these links, Lesa may receive compensation at no additional cost to you.Tags/Keywords:financial confidence during divorce, divorce finances for women, divorce financial planning, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, CDFA, divorce budgeting, divorce negotiation tips, negotiating a divorce settlement, financial preparation for divorce, women and money, divorce financial checklist, property division, spousal maintenance, spousal support, keeping the house after divorce, divorce mediation, divorce settlement negotiation, assertive communication, people pleasing in divorce, financial empowerment for women, BRIDGE Method, ANOT negotiation formula, Rhonda Nordick, Lesa Koski, Doing Divorce Different podcast, divorce podcast for women, midlife divorce, divorce help for women
Giving money to your children can be an incredibly meaningful way to support them while you are still here to see the impact. You may want to help with a home purchase, pay for college, support a growing family, or begin transferring wealth before it eventually passes through your estate.However, the biggest risk is not always giving too much. Problems often arise when parents give the wrong asset, at the wrong time, without the right documentation or legal structure.In this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, Senior Financial Advisor Shawna Theriault, CFP®, CPA, CDFA® and Estate Planning Attorney Arun Gupta explain how to give money to your children in a way that is generous, intentional, and less likely to create tax or family complications.Related Podcast Episodes: Ep 346. Estate Planning Coordination: How Your Attorney, CPA, & Financial Advisor Work TogetherEp 314. The Simple Estate Planning Error That Could Hurt Your FamilyRelated Financial Education Videos:Piggy Banks to Paychecks: How Kids Learn About MoneyCan You Transfer or Repurpose a 529 After Graduation?Learn More:Founded in 2001, Wiser Wealth Management is a fee-only fiduciary financial planning and wealth management firm helping individuals, families, and business owners make informed financial decisions.Have questions about your financial plan? Schedule a Complimentary Consultation to discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, and the tax impact on inheritance, and more!Stay Connected:Follow Wiser Wealth Management on Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TwitterSubscribe to A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel for more financial education videos and podcast episodes. This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!
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What should you do after selling your business? Closing the deal is a major milestone, but it’s only the beginning of a new chapter. Without a thoughtful plan, emotional decisions, tax surprises, and a lack of direction can undermine the financial freedom you’ve worked so hard to achieve. In this episode, Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, explores the most common mistakes business owners make after selling their business and shares practical guidance for turning a successful exit into a successful retirement. He discusses how to make intentional financial decisions, prepare for taxes, invest with purpose, and build a retirement that offers both financial security and personal fulfillment. Larry discusses: What business owners should do immediately after selling a business and why rushing financial decisions can create long-term challenges How to balance enjoying the proceeds from a business sale while avoiding lifestyle inflation that could threaten retirement security Why keeping too much money in cash after a liquidity event can be just as risky as investing too aggressively Capital gains tax planning opportunities business owners should consider before and after a sale, and why waiting until tax season may be too late And more! Connect with Larry Heller: (631) 248-3600 Schedule a 20-Minute Call Heller Wealth Management LinkedIn: Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, CPA YouTube: Retirement Unlocked with Larry Heller, CFP® Heller Wealth Management is now part of Savant Wealth Management. Savant is a Registered Investment Advisor. This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment advice. Effective March 31, 2026, Heller Wealth Management joined Savant Wealth Management (“Savant”). A copy of Savant's current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available at www.savantwealth.com/disclosure-brochures/
Retirement today looks very different than it did even a decade ago. Managing your finances, protecting your identity, staying connected with family, accessing healthcare, and preserving your legacy are all becoming increasingly digital. While these advancements offer greater convenience and flexibility, they also introduce new risks that deserve careful planning. In this episode of Retirement Unlocked, Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, explores how technology is reshaping retirement and why digital preparedness is essential to protecting your financial future. From cybersecurity and AI-powered scams to digital estate planning and everyday technology that supports independence, Larry shares practical insights to help you embrace innovation with greater confidence. Larry discusses: Why retirement planning now includes cybersecurity, digital assets, and the protection of your online identity. How AI-powered scams, voice cloning, hacked emails, and identity theft are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and the practical steps retirees can take to protect themselves. The growing role of telehealth, wearable technology, and other digital tools in helping retirees maintain their independence and improve their quality of life. How technology is making it easier to travel, manage finances remotely, stay connected with family, and enjoy greater flexibility throughout retirement. Why organizing your digital assets, passwords, online accounts, and estate documents is becoming just as important as traditional estate planning. And more! Connect with Larry Heller: (631) 248-3600 Schedule a 20-Minute Call Heller Wealth Management LinkedIn: Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, CPA YouTube: Retirement Unlocked with Larry Heller, CFP® Heller Wealth Management is now part of Savant Wealth Management. Savant is a Registered Investment Advisor. This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment advice. Effective March 31, 2026, Heller Wealth Management joined Savant Wealth Management (“Savant”). A copy of Savant's current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available at www.savantwealth.com/disclosure-brochures/
In this episode of Saving With Steve, host Steve Sexton is joined by Leah Hadley, AFC®, CDFA®, MAFF®, Founder and Senior Wealth Advisor of Intentional Wealth Partners and Founder of Intentional Divorce Solutions. With nearly two decades of financial services experience, Leah helps individuals navigate divorce and major financial transitions with greater clarity and confidence. They discuss: How emotions can influence important financial decisions during divorce Why organizing financial documents early can make the process more manageable How to build a realistic individual budget for life during and after divorce Why establishing boundaries can help reduce unnecessary conflict The importance of understanding assets, debts, income, and expenses before making major decisions Who should be part of your professional support team during a divorce How thoughtful financial planning can help you prepare for your next chapter Learn more about the show at www.SavingWithSteve.us
SELLING YOUR BUSINESS: HOW TO SAVE MORE FOR RETIREMENT WATCH ON YOUTUBE Tyler Kluge | CFP®, ChFEB℠, CPWA®, CDFA®, CEPS Senior Financial Planner Tessa Hall Media and Communications Specialist About This Episode Tessa speaks with BWFA Financial Planner Tyler Kluge about retirement plan options available to business owners. They compare SIMPLE IRAs, SEP IRAs, and individual 401(k) plans while explaining how contribution limits, business growth, and future hiring plans can influence the right strategy. The conversation also explores profit-sharing contributions, plan flexibility, rollover opportunities, and ways business owners can maximize retirement savings. This episode is part three of BWFA’s Business Owner Series. To learn more about how BWFA can help with your exit strategy, visit our Merger and Acquisitions page. Read Full Description Business owners have several retirement plan options. However, choosing the right one depends on income, savings goals, and future business plans. In this episode of Healthy, Wealthy & Wise, Tessa speaks with BWFA Financial Planner Tyler Kluge about retirement plans designed for business owners. They compare SIMPLE IRAs, SEP IRAs, and individual 401(k) plans, discussing the advantages and limitations of each. Tyler explains why an individual 401(k) may allow some business owners to contribute significantly more toward retirement. In addition, he discusses how employee and employer contributions work together to increase annual savings. The conversation also explores profit-sharing contributions and how hiring employees may affect retirement plan decisions. Furthermore, Tyler explains why business owners should consider future growth before selecting a retirement plan. Finally, they discuss rollover opportunities, plan flexibility, and when it may make sense to transition from one retirement plan to another as a business evolves. Ultimately, selecting the right retirement plan can help business owners maximize tax-advantaged savings as they prepare for retirement. Working with experienced financial professionals can also help ensure your retirement strategy supports both your personal and business goals. This episode is part three of BWFA’s Business Owner Series, which explores business planning, valuation, retirement strategies, and successful business transitions. Selling Your Business Series Part 1: The Timing Matters More Than You Think Part 2: How Much Is Your Business Worth? Part 3: How to Save More for Retirement
Send us Fan MailYou have been out of the workforce for years, you are in the middle of a divorce, and someone just told you that you need to get a job. Where do you even start?This week we are sitting down with not one, not two, but three powerhouse women behind SheQuip, Pamela Lisle Smith, Carol Savvas, and Kate Rapier. SheQuip is a career reentry service built specifically for women coming out of divorce who need to get back into the workforce with confidence, strategy, and real support behind them. Together these three are doing something that is genuinely needed. They are taking women who feel broken, overwhelmed, and completely out of the loop and helping them see that the skills they have built while raising kids, managing households, running fundraisers, and navigating life are absolutely valuable in today's marketplace.In this episode we get into the real stuff. How to rebuild a resume when you have been out of the workforce for years. Why LinkedIn is non-negotiable right now and how to actually use it. The free certifications and courses that can refresh your skills fast. How to negotiate your job search support right into your divorce settlement. And the story of a woman who said she had done nothing, only to reveal she had organized a fundraiser for over 1,000 people.Carol's reminder is this: what if it is easier than you think? Start walking. Get those comfortable shoes on. The mountain in front of you might not be as steep as it looks. Join us for next week's Money Talks “What Happens to Your Mortgage When You Divorce?”. Click here to register for FREE and bring your questions! This episode is supported by Marguerita Cheng, CFP®, RICP®, CDFA®, CEO of Blue Ocean Global Wealth. Marguerita works with women navigating divorce to bring clarity, confidence, and control back into their financial lives. At Blue Ocean Global Wealth, the focus is on helping women understand their options, make informed decisions, and feel empowered about their financial future, especially during moments that feel uncertain or overwhelming. If you're going through divorce and want support that's clear, grounded, and centered on your long term wellbeing, you can learn more and connect with Marguerita at www.blueoceanglobalwealth.com and follow her on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube.Disclosure:Securities offered by Registered Representatives and Advisory products and services offered by Investment Advisory Representatives through Private Client Services, member FINRA/SIPC, and a Registered Investment Advisor. Private Client Services and Blue Ocean Global Wealth are unaffiliated entities.Follow & connect with SheQuip:LinkedIn Website InstagramWant to take this conversation one step further? Join us for our next Money Talks, a free 30 minute live session where we'll dig into a question we hear all the time from women business owners: Budgeting for Businesses to Offer Benefits. Click here to register for FREE and bring your questions! Follow & connect with us!Website Facebook PageFacebook groupInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTubeReddit ResourcesHave questions? Click this to check out our expert Q&A for tips from industry experts, tailored to help women address their most common financial concerns. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive financial tips delivered weekly here!...
Many retirees wonder whether they can safely spend more money in retirement without jeopardizing their future. Questions about retirement income, withdrawal rates, market volatility, healthcare expenses, and the fear of running out of money often prevent retirees from enjoying the wealth they’ve accumulated. In this episode, Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, discusses the often-overlooked challenge of transitioning from a saver mindset to a spender mindset in retirement and why many financially secure retirees struggle to enjoy the assets they’ve accumulated. Larry discusses: Why many retirees experience anxiety around spending, even when their financial plan supports it The psychological shift required when moving from accumulation to distribution Common fears about running out of money and how those concerns impact retirement decisions How retirement income planning can help create confidence around spending And more! Connect with Larry Heller: (631) 248-3600 Schedule a 20-Minute Call Heller Wealth Management LinkedIn: Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, CPA YouTube: Retirement Unlocked with Larry Heller, CFP® Heller Wealth Management is now part of Savant Wealth Management. Savant is a Registered Investment Advisor. This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment advice. Effective March 31, 2026, Heller Wealth Management joined Savant Wealth Management (“Savant”). A copy of Savant's current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available at www.savantwealth.com/disclosure-brochures/
In this revelatory episode, Ryan Finley, Owner and Founder of Freedom Financial Services Group, shares how neglecting your marriage while building your business can destroy both. If you're a stage 1 founder feeling pulled between launching your venture and maintaining your most important relationship, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- Why keeping your spouse involved in your business journey protects both your marriage and your company- How to maintain open communication about finances and pressures as you grow- What balanced time management looks like so your family gets your full attentionThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stage 4 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizRyan Finley is the Founder of Freedom Financial Services Group, a divorce finance advisory firm assisting families, attorneys, and courts with the financial challenges of divorce. With over twenty years of executive experience in finance and forensic accounting, Ryan has led hundreds of families across the country to financial clarity and assurance. As a CPA, CDFA, CVA, and court-approved mediator, Ryan combines technical accuracy with empathy, bridging financial analysis and human insight. His skill in clarifying complex financial matters and encouraging constructive dialogue makes him a trusted ally for attorneys and clients.Want to learn more about Ryan Finley's work at Freedom Financial Services Group? Check out his website at https://www.freedomfsg.com/Connect with Ryan thorugh his LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanfinley/Email him at ryan@freedomfsg.com and his phone number is 941-315-5535
For an estate plan to work in real life, your legal documents, account titles, beneficiary designations, tax strategy, and broader financial plan all need to align. That is why coordination between your estate planning attorney, CPA, and financial advisor matters.In this episode of the A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, Senior Financial Advisor Shawna Theriault, CFP®, CPA, CDFA® sits down with Estate Planning Attorney Arun Gupta of AG Law, and Jordan Gary, CPA of Jones & Kolb to talk about why estate planning isn't a solo effort, and what happens when your professional team actually works together. Related Podcast Episodes: Ep 314. The Simple Estate Planning Error That Could Hurt Your FamilyEp 329. Digital Estate Planning: What Happens to Your Online Life?Related Financial Education Videos:Using an Online Estate Planning Service vs Using a Local AttorneyPrevent Family Conflict with Legacy PlanningOther Links:AG LawJones and KolbLearn More:- About Wiser Wealth Management- Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom.- Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more!Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter- A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!
What do I do first when I find out I'm getting divorced? It is the number one question people ask the moment divorce becomes real, whether they reached the decision themselves or were just told it is coming. In one of her most-requested solo episodes, Susan Guthrie introduces the concept of Divorce Triage, a clear-headed way to assess your situation and decide who to reach out to first based on the urgency and the needs of your specific case. Borrowing from the emergency room, Susan explains that when a crisis hits, whether emotional, legal, or financial, you do not have to solve the whole thing at once. You just have to take the right first step. Drawing on more than three decades as a family law attorney and mediator, she walks through the core members of a divorce support team, the attorney, the mediator, the divorce coach, the therapist, and the certified divorce financial analyst, and uses real scenarios to show who your first call should be. From the affair discovery, to the financial betrayal, to the blindsided stay-at-home parent, to the longtime thinker who is finally ready to act, each situation calls for a different first move. Divorce is not one size fits all, and the first decision you make can shape everything that follows. This episode helps you think clearly and choose carefully, so you move forward with strength and strategy instead of panic. Episode 1 of 8 in the Divorce & Beyond Summer Essentials Series This summer, Divorce & Beyond brings back 8 the episodes listeners reach for most, the conversations with the clearest, most practical guidance for anyone thinking about, going through, or rebuilding after divorce. New Essentials air every other Monday all summer. Follow the show so you never miss one. The series starts here. What You'll Learn Why your first call may not be an attorney, and how to triage who you reach out to based on your circumstances Who belongs on your divorce support team, the attorney, mediator, divorce coach, therapist, and CDFA, and when to bring each one in How to take the right first step when betrayal, fear, or financial shock has your emotions all over the place Why too many voices create confusion, and how to avoid the trap of asking everyone for advice Susan's golden nugget: why divorce is not a DIY project, and why the first decision you make shapes everything that comes next If This Episode Helped You Follow Divorce & Beyond so you never miss an episode. Share it with someone who needs clear, reliable guidance right now. And if you have a moment, a five-star review makes a real difference in helping the show reach the people who need it most. Follow Divorce & Beyond Website: divorceandbeyondpod.com Instagram: instagram.com/divorceandbeyondpod About the Host: Susan Guthrie, Esq. Susan Guthrie is one of the nation's leading family law and mediation attorneys, with more than 35 years of experience helping people navigate divorce with clarity and strategy. She is the Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, a best-selling author, and a sought-after speaker and trainer. Susan recently appeared as the featured expert on The Oprah Podcast and has been cited in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Town & Country, The Washington Post, NewsNation, and NBC Chicago Today, among others. As the creator and host of Divorce & Beyond, ranked in the top 1% of all podcasts worldwide with more than 1.3 million downloads and an Apple Top 100 Self-Help designation, Susan brings together leading legal and mental health experts to help listeners move through divorce and into what comes next. Learn more at divorceandbeyondpod.com/about. Disclaimer: The commentary and opinions shared on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in your state regarding your specific situation.
THE HIDDEN MILLIONAIRE: ARE YOU WEALTHIER THAN YOU THINK? WATCH ON YOUTUBE Tyler Kluge | CFP®, ChFEB℠, CPWA®, CDFA®, CEPS, Senior Financial Planner Tessa Hall Media and Communications Specialist About This Episode Tessa speaks with BWFA Financial Planner Tyler Kluge about the concept of the “hidden millionaire”—individuals who have built substantial wealth through consistent saving but may not realize the opportunities available to optimize their financial lives. They discuss why saving money is only one piece of the puzzle and how thoughtful planning can help individuals make more informed decisions about investing, taxes, retirement, and estate planning. The conversation explores cash reserves, forgotten retirement accounts, diversification misconceptions, tax planning, and the importance of understanding your complete financial picture. To learn more about how our financial planning services can help bring clarity to your goals, visit our Financial Planning page. Read Full Description Some people spend years diligently saving money without realizing how much wealth they have accumulated. Others build substantial assets across multiple accounts but never create a comprehensive financial plan. In this episode of Healthy, Wealthy & Wise, Tessa speaks with BWFA Financial Planner Tyler Kluge about the concept of the hidden millionaire. They discuss why financial planning goes beyond simply saving money. Many people maintain large cash reserves without evaluating whether those assets align with their goals. Others forget about retirement accounts from previous employers. Some assume they are diversified simply because they have investments at multiple financial institutions. Tyler explains why understanding your net worth is an important first step in the planning process. He also discusses how investment management, tax planning, retirement planning, and estate planning work together to create a more complete financial strategy. The conversation also explores forgotten accounts, inefficient portfolio structures, and overlooked tax considerations. These issues can affect long-term financial outcomes. In addition, Tyler explains why individuals with substantial assets should consider how their wealth will transfer to future generations. Ultimately, becoming a hidden millionaire often results from consistent saving habits. However, financial planning can help transform accumulated wealth into a strategy that supports your goals. It can also reduce complexity, provide greater confidence, and help ensure your resources are working effectively.
In this episode, Laura Neal, CFP®, and Vic Colella, CFP®, CDFA®, discuss some of the most common and increasingly sophisticated scams targeting individuals and families today. From impersonation schemes to financial fraud, they break down how these scams work, the warning signs to watch for, and the practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your hard-earned assets.If you have suggestions for future episode topics or would like to share feedback, we'd love to hear from you. Please email us at podcast@woodwardadvisors.com.
Losing a spouse is one of life's most difficult experiences, emotionally and financially. Many retirees are surprised to learn that widowhood can also create significant tax and retirement-planning challenges that may affect income, Medicare premiums, estate plans, and long-term financial security. In this episode, Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, explains why the loss of a spouse can create unexpected financial challenges for retirees, including higher taxes, rising Medicare premiums, and changes to retirement income. He discusses how required minimum distributions, Social Security survivor benefits, and IRMAA thresholds can affect a surviving spouse's long-term financial picture. Larry also shares proactive planning strategies couples can consider before widowhood, including Roth conversions, tax-bracket management, beneficiary reviews, and estate planning updates. Through real-life examples, he highlights how thoughtful preparation can help surviving spouses avoid costly mistakes and navigate a difficult transition with greater confidence and clarity. What to expect: Why surviving spouses often face higher taxes after the loss of a spouse How the widow and widower tax penalty impacts retirement income The effect of IRMAA and rising Medicare premiums for single filers How required minimum distributions can create larger future tax burdens And more! Connect with Larry Heller: (631) 248-3600 Schedule a 20-Minute Call Heller Wealth Management LinkedIn: Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, CPA YouTube: Retirement Unlocked with Larry Heller, CFP® Heller Wealth Management is now part of Savant Wealth Management. Savant is a Registered Investment Advisor. This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment advice. Effective March 31, 2026, Heller Wealth Management joined Savant Wealth Management (“Savant”). A copy of Savant's current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available at www.savantwealth.com/disclosure-brochures/
Divorce is the intersection of the biggest trauma of your life and the biggest financial decisions of your life — happening at the exact same moment. And yet most people navigate it alone, armed with a lawyer's phone number, a group chat of well-meaning friends, and advice that was never really meant for them. Melissa Murphy Pavone grew up watching what happens when someone has to make those decisions without the right team in their corner. Her mother was that person. And it shaped everything that came after.In this episode of A Fresh Story: Book Talk, Olivia sits down with certified financial planner, certified divorce financial analyst, and founder of Mindful Divorce Partners, Melissa Murphy Pavone, to discuss her book Divorce by Design. Melissa's origin story is one of the most quietly powerful in the Fresh Starts community: she became a CDFA because she watched her mother make decisions with her heart instead of her head during divorce — decisions whose consequences still ripple forward today. Every client she now sits across from, she sees her mom. That depth of personal mission infuses every page of this book. Written to be accessible and even — yes — occasionally funny, Divorce by Design dismantles the myths and misinformation that swirl around divorce, and replaces them with something far more useful: clarity, a framework, and a team.At the heart of the book is a simple but radical idea: you don't need one person to guide you through divorce, you need a whole team — emotional support first, financial expertise second, legal strategy third. Melissa argues that most people get this order completely backwards, lawyering up before they've regulated enough to make sound decisions — and paying for it for years afterward. Whether you're in the middle of a divorce, supporting someone who is, or simply want to understand the landscape before you ever need it, Divorce by Design is the book Melissa's mother never had. And now everyone can.
This episode is a fast-moving walkthrough of the cases and pitfalls that most often drive IRS attention. In a candid, practitioner-to-practitioner conversation, Dave, Natalya and Bruce break down what's changing, what's repeating, and what valuation pros can do now to reduce risk and improve defensibility. You'll hear what Pierce v. Commissioner suggests about when a DCF can stand alone, why tax affecting still needs to be done "the right way," and how weak support for DLOM (and increasingly DLOC) can undermine an otherwise solid conclusion. Actionable takeaway: tighten your work where challenges concentrate: discounts, tax affecting, projections, and documentation. And if you use AI for research or drafting, verify sources like your job depends on it—because it does. Continue reading to learn about key resources available to improve your valuation analyses. Guests: Natalya Abdrasilova, CPA/ABV, MAFF, Director of Valuation & Litigation Services, Boyle, Deveny & Meyer Bruce C. Wood, CPA/ABV, Mtx, Director, Applied Economics Host: David J Consigli, CPA/ABV, CDFA, Partner, SAX Advisory Group Thanks for listening. It takes just a couple of minutes to share your feedback. You can also contact us directly at podcast@aicpa-cima.com RESOURCES FOR FURTHER EXPLORATION If you're using a podcast app that does not hyperlink to the resources, please visit our podcast platform to access the show notes with direct links. 2026 Forensic and Valuation Services Conference - Beyond the technical sessions, conferences can offer something just as important—the opportunity to connect with peers, share experiences, and hear how others are approaching similar challenges in their work. Early bird savings through Sept 20 plus additional savings for AICPA members and ABV/CFF/CVFI holders JOIN: The FVS Engage365 Member Community to collaborate with fellow AICPA® members, exchange ideas, and shape the future of the profession together. EARLY CAREER GUIDANCE: Welcome to a career in forensic and valuation services Click here to join the AICPA FVS Section An active community of FVS peers. You will get 16 credits of complimentary CPE and access to exclusivetechnical content FVS Valuation Podcast archives - Check out what we have to offer Making a Case for Using the Market Approach for Determining Fair Market Value Insights for Navigating Common Issues in Business Valuation - 2025 update Grabowski's Take - Discount Rates, Risk, and the Future of Valuation LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FOLLOWING AICPA CREDENTIALS: Accredited in Business Valuation (ABV®) – Visit the home page and check out the ABV infographic Certified in the Valuation of Financial Instruments (CVFI®) – Visit the home page and check out the CVFI infographic Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF®) - Visit the home page and check out the CFF infographic This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments are welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com
In this milestone 200th episode of Retirement Unlocked, Larry Heller reflects on the journey of building the podcast from an audio-only show into a growing multimedia platform focused on helping people make smarter retirement decisions. Joined by co-host Bill Tucker, Larry shares why the podcast was created, the lessons learned over 200 episodes, and how financial education can truly impact people's lives. In this episode, Larry explores how he has always aimed to make financial planning more understandable as he continues to stay ahead of constant changes in tax laws, and retirement strategies. He expresses gratitude to his listeners, clients, and guests who have helped the podcast grow to nearly 50,000 YouTube views as it continues into its next chapter. Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, discusses: How Retirement Unlocked has changed over the years Why retirement planning is more about cash flow than net worth How taxes can become more complicated in retirement Why financial planning should evolve as life changes And more! Connect with Larry Heller: (631) 248-3600 Schedule a 20-Minute Call Heller Wealth Management LinkedIn: Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, CPA YouTube: Retirement Unlocked with Larry Heller, CFP® Heller Wealth Management is now part of Savant Wealth Management. Savant is a Registered Investment Advisor. This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment advice. Effective March 31, 2026, Heller Wealth Management joined Savant Wealth Management (“Savant”). A copy of Savant's current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available at www.savantwealth.com/disclosure-brochures/
Send us Fan MailDivorce is emotional. But for many women, the financial side can be the biggest shock of all.This week on Women & Money: The Shit We Don't Talk About, Barbara and Maggie sit down with Alex and Amanda, divorce mediators and co-hosts of the Dirty Laundry podcast, to share the real financial realities women face during separation and divorce. Alex and Amanda share what they see every day behind closed doors, from hidden debt and emotional fights over “the Peloton,” to the financial wake-up calls that happen when one partner has been managing all the money. They also explain why mediation can help couples avoid high-conflict court battles, protect their finances, and create healthier co-parenting relationships moving forward. 00:49 Meet Alex & Amanda from Dirty Laundry05:05 Why unpaid labor matters in divorce06:10 Trial separations explained09:45 Can trial separations save marriages?16:40 Why mediation works differently than court20:00 Learning healthy conflict resolutionAlex and Amanda also remind women that even if they feel overwhelmed right now, they are capable of rebuilding financial confidence and creating a future that feels safe, secure, and fully their own. Whether you're navigating divorce, supporting someone through it, or simply trying to understand your finances more deeply, join us for next week's Money Talks “Protect Your Assets During a Divorce”. Click here to register for FREE and bring your questions! This episode is supported by Marguerita Cheng, CFP®, RICP®, CDFA®, CEO of Blue Ocean Global Wealth. Marguerita works with women navigating divorce to bring clarity, confidence, and control back into their financial lives. At Blue Ocean Global Wealth, the focus is on helping women understand their options, make informed decisions, and feel empowered about their financial future, especially during moments that feel uncertain or overwhelming. If you're going through divorce and want support that's clear, grounded, and centered on your long term wellbeing, you can learn more and connect with Marguerita at www.blueoceanglobalwealth.com and follow her on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube.Disclosure:Securities offered by Registered Representatives and Advisory products and services offered by Investment Advisory Representatives through Private Client Services, member FINRA/SIPC, and a Registered Investment Advisor. Private Client Services and Blue Ocean Global Wealth are unaffiliated entities.Follow & connect with Alex & Amanda:Youtube Website Instagram: @dirty.laundry.podcast Want to take this conversation one step further? Join us for our next Money Talks, a free 30 minute live session where we'll dig into a question we hear all the time from women business owners: Budgeting for Businesses to Offer Benefits. Click here to register for FREE and bring your questions! Follow & connect with us!Website Facebook PageFacebook groupInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTubeReddit ResourcesHave questions? Click this to check out our expert Q&A for tips from industry experts, tailored to help women address their most common financial concerns. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive financial tips delivered weekly here!...
Losing a loved one is emotional enough without having to navigate legal paperwork, financial accounts, and estate settlement decisions at the same time. Yet for many families, those responsibilities begin almost immediately after a death occurs, often without clear guidance or preparation.In this episode of the A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, Shawna Theriault, CFP®, CPA, CDFA®, and Estate Planning Attorney Arun Gupta, discuss what really happens after someone dies, common estate planning mistakes, and how families can avoid unnecessary stress, delays, and expenses.Related Podcast Episodes: Ep 314. The Simple Estate Planning Error That Could Hurt Your FamilyEp 329. Digital Estate Planning: What Happens to Your Online Life?Related Financial Education Videos:Prevent Family Conflict with Legacy Planning A Financial Advisor's Role in Legacy PlanningOther Links:AG Law, LLCLearn More:- About Wiser Wealth Management- Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom.- Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more!Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter- A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!
Many retirees assume their Medicare premiums will stay consistent once they enroll. But that's not always the case, especially for higher-income individuals. In this episode, Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, breaks down IRMAA, the income-related surcharge that can increase your Medicare Part B and Part D premiums based on income from two years prior. He explains how everyday financial decisions, from IRA withdrawals to capital gains and Roth conversions, can unexpectedly push you into higher premium brackets. Larry discusses: What IRMAA is and how it impacts Medicare premiums How income from two years prior determines your current costs Common triggers like Roth conversions, property sales, and large withdrawals Strategies to potentially reduce IRMAA through proactive tax and income planning Why coordinating tax, investment, and healthcare decisions is essential in retirement And more! Resources: SSA Form 44 (to report a life-changing event and potentially reduce IRMAA) Medicare IRMAA income brackets and thresholds Connect with Larry Heller: (631) 248-3600 Schedule a 20-Minute Call Heller Wealth Management LinkedIn: Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, CPA YouTube: Retirement Unlocked with Larry Heller, CFP® Heller Wealth Management is now part of Savant Wealth Management. Savant is a Registered Investment Advisor. This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment advice. Effective March 31, 2026, Heller Wealth Management joined Savant Wealth Management (“Savant”). A copy of Savant's current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available at www.savantwealth.com/disclosure-brochures/
On this episode of The Rewrite, I'm joined by Beth Kraszewski—Founder of Purposeful Wealth Advisors, CFP®, CDFA®, and one of the country's leading experts in divorce financial strategy. Her message is clear—you are stronger than you know. Beth is also the author of Stronger Than You Know—a must-read for any woman navigating divorce and financial independence.Beth has worked behind the scenes of high-asset, high-conflict divorces—where emotions run high, assets can be hidden, and the wrong financial decision can impact your future for decades.But what makes this conversation so powerful… is how she brings humanity into the numbers.We talk about: - Why fear, grief, and urgency should never drive financial decisions - What really happens behind the scenes in complex divorces - How to protect yourself when assets aren't fully transparent - Why the “day after divorce” isn't the transformation—but the beginning of it Beth also shares a deeply moving client story that perfectly captures what The Rewrite is all about: Sometimes life doesn't go as planned… but what unfolds can be even more aligned, peaceful, and true. Connect with Beth: Websites: www.bethkraszewski.com and www.purposefulwealthadvisors.comInstagramFacebookLinkedIn Book: Stronger Than You Know (available on Amazon)
One of the biggest fears people face when contemplating divorce is the financial unknown. If you are sitting out there right now feeling overwhelmed, unsure where to begin, or worried about money, this conversation was made for you. This week Susan is bringing you one of the most listened to and most shared episodes from the Divorce and Beyond archive, a conversation with certified divorce financial analyst Hollis Hardiman, also a certified mediator and certified collaborative professional, walking through the foundational financial preparation that can make such a difference when first starting the divorce process. Together, Susan and Hollis get into what it really takes to protect your finances as you enter the process, from building the right professional support team to understanding what your household actually costs to approaching the big decisions, like the house, with clarity and an open mind instead of fear. Covered in this episode: Why money is the number one fear people face when contemplating divorce and why the right professional support team changes everything How to start building a picture of your finances from what you already have access to, even if your spouse handled the money Why alimony and support are temporary and what it means to plan now for when they end How a CDFA helps clients protect their finances not just during the divorce process but for their financial future as well HOW TO HANDLE THE MOST COMMON QUESTION ASKED DURING DIVORCE, "CAN I KEEP THE HOUSE?" Almost everyone walks into the divorce process asking the same thing: can I keep the house? It is an understandable instinct. But when keeping the house becomes a fixed position rather than one option among many, it can stall the process, drain resources, and leave you worse off financially in the long run. Some things to consider, as discussed in this episode include: One household income divided into two households means the math will not work the same way Understand what it would actually cost to keep the house: refinancing, mortgage qualification, maintenance, and carrying costs Explore all the options: keeping, selling, renting, downsizing You can put the puzzle together a lot of different ways in divorce, but only if you stay open to looking at all the pieces The goal is not to win the house. The goal is to make the decision that sets you up for the strongest financial future. Get the answers, both good and bad, and then decide. Referenced Episodes from the Archive: How to Get Your Act Together So that You Can Tackle Your Divorce with Alex Beattie of Divide & Thrive The Solution for Tackling the Divorce Detour with Storey Jones, Creator of dtour.life It's All About the House: What You Need to Think About Before You Decide to Keep It with Tami Wollensak ______________________________________________________________________ This Week's Guest: Hollis Hardiman, CDFA Hollis provides financial, retirement, and wealth management services to her clients. She specializes in helping people navigate major life transitions including divorce, the loss of a spouse, and preparing for retirement. As a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA), Hollis firmly believes in building a support team of divorce professionals including attorneys, mediators, and therapists that can help her clients make the best decisions during these emotional times. As a child of divorced parents, Hollis witnessed firsthand the consequences when sound financial decisions are not made. Hollis is certified in both mediation and collaborative divorce. She is well trained to advocate for one party or serve as a neutral party for the couple during the divorce process. While being part of the support system with the attorneys and mediators, Hollis is able to guide her clients through their short-term and long-term settlement options. Hollis grew up in Fairfield, CT, and now splits her time between Fairfield, CT, and Palm City, FL. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and extended family, walking her two dogs, and playing tennis. Investment advice offered through Merit Financial Group, LLC, an SEC registered investment adviser. Phone: 203.423.5985 E-mail: hhardiman@meritfa.com Website: https://divorceresourcect.com/about/ ______________________________________________________________________ If This Episode Helped You Subscribe to Divorce & Beyond so you never miss an episode. Share it with someone who needs clear, reliable guidance right now. And if you have a moment, leaving a five-star review makes a real difference in helping this show reach the people who need it most. Follow Divorce & Beyond Website: divorceandbeyondpod.com Instagram: instagram.com/divorceandbeyondpod ______________________________________________________________________ About Our Host: Susan E. Guthrie, Esq. Susan E. Guthrie is one of the nation's leading family law and mediation attorneys, with more than 35 years of experience helping individuals navigate divorce with clarity and strategy. She is the Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, a best-selling author, and a sought-after speaker and trainer. Susan recently appeared as the featured expert on The Oprah Podcast and has been cited in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Washington Post, NewsNation, and NBC Chicago Today, among others. As the creator and host of Divorce & Beyond, ranked in the top 1% of all podcasts worldwide with millions of downloads and an Apple Top 100 Self-Help designation, Susan brings together top legal and mental health experts to help listeners move through divorce and into what comes next. Learn more at https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/about Disclaimer: The commentary and opinions shared on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in your state regarding your specific situation.
Divorce is emotional—but it's also deeply financial. And the decisions you make can shape your future for years to come. On this episode, I'm joined by Melissa Murphy Pavone, CFP®, CDFA®, founder of Mindful Divorce Partners, to break down what you really need to know when it comes to money and divorce. We talk about: • The biggest financial mistakes people make • What to do before you file • The truth about keeping the house • Retirement, taxes, and long-term planning • How to build the right divorce team Melissa brings both expertise and compassion to this conversation—and reminds us that divorce doesn't have to be a battle. It can be thoughtful, informed, and empowering. Follow Melissa: @mindfuldivorcepartners www.mindfuldivorcepartners.com
What if the key to a better divorce isn't just hiring a lawyer—but building the right team from the start? In Episode 93, Andrew Hatherley sits down with Melissa Murphy Pavone, (CDFA) to discuss how a proactive, team-based approach can help you navigate divorce more efficiently—and avoid costly mistakes. Thanks for listening! We'd be very grateful if you'd subscribe to the podcast and give us 5 stars! Please visit Transcend Retirement or Wiser Divorce Solutions. Follow Andrew on LinkedIn too!
In this episode, Rhonda sits down with Becky Sampson, founder of Only Subpoenas™, for a grounded conversation about one of the most misunderstood tools in divorce: subpoenas. If you've ever felt like you're making decisions without the full picture, you're not alone. Many women find themselves asking for financial information again and again—only to be met with delays, partial answers, or silence. This conversation explores what happens when you shift from asking… to accessing. Becky shares her personal story of navigating a high-conflict divorce, where she issued 21 subpoenas over the course of her case. What began as a frustrating process became a turning point—helping her uncover critical financial information, build confidence, and ultimately create leverage in her settlement. Together, Rhonda and Becky break down what a subpoena actually is (and what it's not), when it might make sense to consider one, and how it fits into a broader financial strategy during divorce. This isn't about being aggressive. It's about being informed. In This Episode, We Cover: What a subpoena is—and how it differs from a discovery request Why "asking nicely" doesn't always lead to full transparency How subpoenas can help close gaps in financial information The emotional side of gaining access to information (and what to do with it) Why more information isn't always better—and how to stay strategic Real examples of uncovering hidden accounts, income, and spending The role of organization and clarity when reviewing financial records How subpoenas can create leverage in negotiations What to consider before pursuing additional documentation Key Takeaway You don't have to make life-altering financial decisions with incomplete information. And… you don't have to rush the process. But there may come a point where continuing to ask keeps you stuck. That's where understanding your options—and having the right support—can change everything.
Untying the Knot, Supporting Women through Divorce and BeyondIn this episode of Untying the Knot, Katie and Miranda sit down with Kristina Heckel, CDFA, CFEI from Bloom Divorce Advisory Services to talk about one of the most stressful parts of divorce: money.
Send us Fan MailYou can be smart and still struggle with money.This week, we're joined by Christine Luken, known as the Financial Dignity Coach, who shares her powerful story of hitting financial rock bottom and rebuilding from the inside out.Christine opens up about what happens when emotions take over your financial decisions, how she went from being an accountant in collections to becoming a trusted financial coach, and the moment the police showed up at her door that changed everything. We discuss the emotional side of money that no one talks about. Often, women stay stuck in financial patterns that don't serve them. Together, how do we start making decisions that support both our present and our future?Christine reminds us that money isn't just numbers. It's emotional, personal, and deeply tied to how we see ourselves. If you're ready to take back control of your finances after divorce, join us for next week's Money Talks “Financial Clarity: What You Need to Know Before, During, and After your Divorce”. Click here to register for FREE and bring your questions! This episode is supported by Marguerita Cheng, CFP®, RICP®, CDFA®, CEO of Blue Ocean Global Wealth. Marguerita works with women navigating divorce to bring clarity, confidence, and control back into their financial lives. At Blue Ocean Global Wealth, the focus is on helping women understand their options, make informed decisions, and feel empowered about their financial future, especially during moments that feel uncertain or overwhelming. If you're going through divorce and want support that's clear, grounded, and centered on your long term wellbeing, you can learn more and connect with Marguerita at www.blueoceanglobalwealth.com and follow her on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and YoWant to take this conversation one step further? Join us for our next Money Talks, a free 30 minute live session where we'll dig into a question we hear all the time from women business owners: Budgeting for Businesses to Offer Benefits. Click here to register for FREE and bring your questions! Follow & connect with us!Website Facebook PageFacebook groupInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTubeReddit ResourcesHave questions? Click this to check out our expert Q&A for tips from industry experts, tailored to help women address their most common financial concerns. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive financial tips delivered weekly here!...
In this episode of The D Shift, Mardi Winder is joined by Keri Gwynne and Ryan Finley for a direct, practical conversation on what it actually takes to prepare for divorce mediation the right way.This is not about “getting through” mediation. This is about protecting your outcomes.Too many people walk into mediation unprepared. They are emotionally overwhelmed, unclear about their financial reality, and making real-time decisions that will impact them for years. This is where costly mistakes happen. This conversation breaks down how to approach mediation strategically across three critical areas: your children, your finances, and your long-term stability. Keri shares how detailed, well-structured parenting plans reduce conflict and protect children from being pulled into the middle. Ryan explains how to understand your full financial picture, when forensic accounting is worth the investment, and how to ensure nothing is being overlooked or hidden. Together, they highlight what real preparation looks like. Emotional regulation so you can think clearly under pressure, financial clarity so you know what you are agreeing to, and a defined strategy so you are not reacting in the moment.If you are heading into mediation or even thinking about it, this episode will challenge you to stop hoping it works out and start preparing so it does.Key Takeaways• Why mediation outcomes are directly tied to preparation, not luck• How detailed parenting plans prevent future conflict and protect children• The biggest financial mistakes people make before and during mediation• When it makes sense to investigate hidden assets and when it does not• How to walk into mediation with clarity on what you need and what you will accept• Why emotional regulation is critical to making sound decisions under pressure• The role of the right professionals in protecting your long-term outcomesAbout the Guests:Keri Gwynne is a Certified Divorce Coach and CEO of Starting Point by Freedom, a comprehensive divorce service offering coaching, mediation, and family-focused guidance. With certifications in both High Conflict and Transitional Divorce, she has helped guide more than 550 families across the nation through the divorce process with clarity and confidence. Through her own lived experience as a high-conflict divorce survivor, Keri blends empathy, compassion, and resilience with deep professional expertise to help individuals rebuild and reclaim their lives after divorce. Ryan Finley is the Founder of Freedom Financial Services Group, a divorce finance advisory firm helping families, attorneys, and courts navigate the financial complexities of divorce. With more than twenty years of executive leadership in finance and forensic accounting, Ryan has guided hundreds of families nationwide toward financial clarity and confidence. As a CPA, CDFA, CVA, and court-approved mediator, Ryan brings both technical precision and empathy to the table—bridging the gap between financial analysis and human understanding. His ability to simplify complex financial issues and foster productive dialogue makes him a trusted resource for attorneys and clients alike.To connect with Keri and Ryan: Website: https://www.startingpointfreedom.com/ Website: https://www.freedomfsg.com/Ryan's phone: 941-945-2846About the HostMardi Winder is a Strategic Divorce Consultant and High-Conflict Divorce Coach who helps high-achieving individuals navigate divorce with clarity, confidence, and control. Drawing on more than 30 years of experience in mediation, divorce coaching and conflict resolution, she supports clients in making smart decisions while reducing emotional and financial fallout, particularly in high-conflict, high-asset and complex divorces. Mardi is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and the Strategic Divorce Directory, LLC.For Mardi's gift: The Resilience Building Blueprint: A 28-Day Journey To A Stronger You https://www.divorcecoach4women.com/rbbConnect with Mardi on Social Media:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4womenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4womenThanks for Listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the PodcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. 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In this episode of Journey Beyond Divorce, Karen McMahon sits down with Stacy Francis, CFP®, CDFA®, CES™, President and CEO of Francis Financial, to unpack one of the most complex and often overlooked aspects of divorce: executive compensation. When income extends beyond a traditional paycheck to include RSUs, stock options, deferred bonuses, and long-term incentive plans, the financial landscape of divorce becomes significantly more complicated—and the stakes much higher. Together, Karen and Stacy explore how these "golden handcuffs" function and why they are so frequently misunderstood, undervalued, or even missed entirely during divorce proceedings. They dive into how executive compensation is structured, where disclosure gaps tend to occur, and how to identify these assets through key documents like offer letters, vesting schedules, and compensation statements. Stacy also explains how marital versus separate property is determined using time-based calculations tied to the date of divorce, and why timing, vesting schedules, and tax implications can dramatically impact the outcome of a settlement. This conversation brings clarity to critical decisions, including whether to divide future vesting shares or offset their value with other assets, and highlights a common and costly mistake around who is responsible for taxes on RSU income. Karen and Stacy also discuss real-world complications like job changes, buyouts of unvested compensation, and what happens to these assets in the event of death or disability. Throughout the episode, they emphasize the importance of working with experienced legal and financial professionals who understand high-net-worth divorce and complex compensation structures. Whether you are an executive navigating divorce or a spouse trying to understand the full financial picture, this episode offers essential insights to help you avoid costly mistakes, ensure proper disclosure, and make informed decisions that protect your long-term financial future. Connect with Stacy: Website: https://francisfinancial.com/francis_team/stacy-francis/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FrancisFinancialInc/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/francisfinancialinc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjYgEJi2EhaCd1pL58V78iA?view_as=subscriber Free Gift: We have seen first-hand the impact that a detailed Legacy Plan has on our clients and their loved ones. This experience inspired us to create our Legacy Planning Checklist. To make it easier, we've created a three-part Webinar which will take you through the checklist step by step to make sure you finish with confidence. Each session is hosted by Certified Financial Planners™ Stacy Francis and Natalie Colley, who share practical guidance, real examples, and tools to help you build your personalized legacy plan with clarity and confidence. Gift Link: https://francisfinancial.com/because-i-love-you-a-legacy-planning-companion/ Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Follow JBD on Instagram: @journey_beyond_divorce Book a Free Rapid Relief Call: http://rapidreliefcall.com Free Divorce Support Network Gift: https://divorcesupportnetwork.com/jbdpod