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Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
Scott tackles questions on: withdrawing money from a 403(b) plan at age 59 1/2; quality of Lincoln National Life Group and Plan Member Services 403(b) offerings; time it takes for a 403(b) rollover to Vanguard IRA; the Ohio Deferred Comp 457(b) plan; best choice for Vanguard settlement fund. Video of Podcast 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
We speak with two late-start savers who are now either retired or soon to be retired. One never made more than $100,000 a year and one is an emergency room doctor. Catching Up to FI F.I.R.E. for Dummies 403bwise/457bwiser Facebook Group 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Stijn Schmitz welcomes Ted Oakley to the show. Ted Oakley is Founder and Managing Partner | Oxbow Advisors. The discussion explores investment strategy, focusing on long-term holdings, hard assets, and contrarian opportunities. Oakley emphasizes the importance of a longer investment horizon, typically holding stocks for three to ten years, while acknowledging that most traders focus on short-term moves, often using leverage and options—which he views as risky. He notes that his firm recently bought back gold, silver, and mining stocks after significant corrections, considering them cheap on a cash flow basis, and continues to hold energy positions. Oakley expresses caution regarding certain AI-driven tech companies, citing concerns about debt levels, earnings quality, and the sustainability of current growth. He sees parallels to the late 1990s and the potential for revaluation if commercial viability falters. He advocates maintaining liquidity to seize opportunities during market dislocations, often holding substantial short-term treasuries alongside gold as a currency hedge against dollar depreciation and long-term inflationary pressures from rising government debt and deficits. The conversation turns to gold, with Oakley viewing the recent pullback to around $4,000 as a buying opportunity for those with a multi-year outlook, expecting much higher prices driven by central bank purchases and de-dollarization trends. He sees gold miners and royalty companies as undervalued, noting strong balance sheets and wide profit margins relative to extraction costs. Silver is also considered attractive, though more volatile. On energy, Oakley highlights the sector's profitability even at moderate oil prices and the structural supply constraints from underinvestment. He recommends a diversified approach across producers, pipelines, and service companies, focusing on quality names bought at a discount to intrinsic value. He also discusses critical minerals and iron ore as part of a broader hard asset strategy to protect against currency debasement. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:00 – Current Investment Opportunities 00:02:23 – Long-term Investment Horizon 00:05:05 – Microsoft and AI Concerns 00:09:37 – Liquidity and Market Risks 00:11:29 – Debasement and Hard Assets 00:14:36 – Gold Market Opportunity 00:18:19 – Silver vs Gold Thesis 00:28:34 – Gold Miners Landscape 00:31:30 – Royalty Companies Value 00:34:01 – Energy Sector Fundamentals 00:39:13 – Critical Minerals Exposure 00:46:35 – Wrap Up Guest Links: X: https://x.com/Oxbow_Advisors Website: https://oxbowadvisors.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/OxbowAdvisors J. Ted Oakley, CFA, CFP, is Managing Director and Founder of Oxbow Advisors. With more than forty years of experience in advising high net worth clients in the investment industry, Oakley implements the firm's proprietary investment strategies and the “Oxbow Principles” to provide a unique investment perspective. He is a frequent guest on FOX Business News, Bloomberg Radio, Thoughtful Money, The David Lin Report, and many more. Mr. Oakley is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). He is a member of the Austin Society of Financial Analysts. He is also a Partner of Herndon Plant Oakley Ltd., an investment company. He is a Board Member of Texas State Aquarium, American Bank, and American Bank Holding Company. Mr. Oakley is a United States Army Veteran. Mr. Oakley began his career in Dallas, Texas, over 40 years ago. He is the author of Eleven books: You Sold Your Company, $30 Million and Broke, Rich Kids Broke Kids – The Failure of Traditional Estate Planning, Crazy Time – Surviving the First 12 Months after Selling Your Company, Wall Street Lies, Danger Time, My Story, The Psychology of Staying Rich, Your Money Mentality, Stay Rich with a Balanced Portfolio & his 2025 latest release: Second Generation Wealth. Mr. Oakley's primary philanthropic interest is helping children. He is Chairman Emeritus and Founder of the Foster Angels of South Texas, the largest foster child foundation in South Texas, as well as Chairman Emeritus and Founder of Austin, Texas-based Foster Angels of Central Texas. Also, President and Founder of Advocates for Foster Children Foundation. Mr. Oakley recently arranged for Foster Angels in South Texas to represent The Heart Gallery of Texas to further their adoption efforts.
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
Lincoln Investment's RetirementSolutions Participant Directed Account has long been the only low-cost 403(b) option for teachers, especially in New Jersey. All of that is going away. Pittsburgh teacher Adam Holy, who fought to get the Participant Directed Account available years ago, discusses what loss of this option will mean in his district. Scott offers some fixes for districts losing this low-cost option. Pittsburgh Teacher Gets Low Cost Option (pod with Adam) When Bad Vendors Offer Good Choices 403bwise/457bwiser Facebook Group Pittsburgh School District 403(b) Choices Learned by Being Burned (episode 3) 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
One of the most common questions that we hear from our clients isn't whether they've saved enough; it's whether their savings can actually provide the income they need to live the retirement they've envisioned. Building wealth during your working years is one challenge, but turning those assets into a reliable paycheck is where a comprehensive retirement plan becomes essential. In this episode, Keith Ellis Jr. is joined by Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and Certified Tax Specialist (CTS™), Chris Willis, to discuss how retirement income planning goes far beyond simply withdrawing money from an investment portfolio. They explain how understanding your expenses is the foundation of every retirement plan, how different income strategies can fit different personalities and goals, and why no single approach works for every retiree. They also break down the strengths and tradeoffs of guaranteed income, dividend-focused investing, and SHP's bucket strategy for generating retirement income. You'll also learn how income planning fits into SHP's comprehensive retirement strategy that includes investments, taxes, healthcare, and estate planning. In this podcast interview, you'll learn: Why retirement income planning begins with understanding your lifestyle expenses. How guaranteed income, dividend investing, and bucket strategies each serve different goals. Why there's no one-size-fits-all approach to generating retirement income. How balancing safety, income, and growth creates a more resilient retirement plan. Why tax planning should influence your retirement income strategy. How a personalized retirement plan can help you retire with greater confidence. Want the Full Show Notes? To get access to the full show notes, including audio, transcripts, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SHPfinancial.com/podcast Connect With Us on Social Facebook LinkedIn YouTube
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
A Riverside, California teacher was interested in learning about a 403(b). He met with a NLG sales agent via Zoom. Suddenly forms were filled out and electronically signed. Video of episode Riverside Unified School District Vendor List 403bwise/457bwiser Facebook Group 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
We all like individualism but individual 403(b) contracts make it difficult for school districts to reform their 403(b) plan. There is a solution. Recipe for Going Single Vendor (Learned by Being Burned Episode 5) Individual Plans vs Group Contracts Explainer 403bwise/457bwiser Facebook Group 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
With vendors like Equitable and National Life Group, what could go wrong? Watch video version ASBO "Model" 403(b) Plan Choice Still Matters — Bringing Clarity to the Modern 403(b) Landscape 403bwise/457bwiser Facebook Group 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Join Brian Cochran, President of John Moore Associates and a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), as he discusses the importance of charitable planning and how thoughtful generosity can create greater impact while bringing clarity to your overall financial strategy. Drawing from his expertise in retirement planning, small business succession, and stewardship, Brian shares practical ways individuals and families can align their giving with their values and long-term goals. It’s an insightful conversation about using your resources wisely to make a lasting difference while strengthening your financial plan. The post Brian Cochran appeared first on ABQ Connect.
The college your kid falls in love with might be the one that costs you your retirement — and their financial future. That's the trap most families fall into, but college financial planner Shanna Due has a system for avoiding it. In this episode, she breaks down the three things every family needs to consider before saying "yes" to any school. You'll learn what to do if your child has their heart set on a specific school, how financial aid really works, and how to get the best college experience for the least amount of investment. Grab your copy of
Divorce isn't just an emotional transition—it's one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. In this episode, Erica sits down with Certified Financial Planner®, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst®, and author Melissa Murphy-Pavone to unpack the costly mistakes many people make during divorce and how to avoid them.Melissa explains why equal numbers on paper don't always translate into equal financial outcomes, why your attorney shouldn't be your only advisor, and how building the right support team can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.Whether you're quietly considering divorce, actively negotiating a settlement, or rebuilding afterward, this conversation will help you make informed decisions with confidence.
For this episode, let's revisit a strategy skills classic interview with the author of MoneyZen: The Secret to Finding Your "Enough", Manisha Thakor. In this book, Manisha shares her candid journey out of the Cult of Never Enough—a painful mindset that tells you the money you earn, accomplishments you achieve, and praise you receive are always insufficient. Manisha Thakor has worked in financial services for more than thirty years, with an emphasis on women's economic empowerment and financial wellbeing. A nationally recognized thought-leader in this space, Thakor has been featured in a wide range of publications including the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, NPR, PBS, CNN, Real Simple, and Women's Health. Prior to writing MoneyZen, Thakor co-authored two personal finance books for women in their twenties and thirties. Today her work focuses on helping people of all ages to balance financial health and emotional wealth. Thakor earned her MBA from Harvard Business School, her BA from Wellesley College and is both a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). She splits her time between Portland, Oregon and rural Maine. Her website is MoneyZen.com. Get Manisha's Book here: https://rb.gy/od9zz MoneyZen: The Secret to Finding Your "Enough" Claim your free gift: Free gift #1 McKinsey & BCG winning resume www.FIRMSconsulting.com/resumePDF Free gift #2 Breakthrough Decisions Guide with 25 AI Prompts www.FIRMSconsulting.com/decisions Free gift #3 Five Reasons Why People Ignore Somebody www.FIRMSconsulting.com/owntheroom Free gift #4 Access episode 1 from Build a Consulting Firm, Level 1 www.FIRMSconsulting.com/build Free gift #5 The Overall Approach used in well-managed strategy studies www.FIRMSconsulting.com/OverallApproach Free gift #6 Get a copy of Nine Leaders in Action, a book we co-authored with some of our clients: www.FIRMSconsulting.com/gift
What do wealthy families talk about differently? Lana Robinson joins Carissa Lucreziano to explore the conversations and the habits that help families build lasting financial legacies.What if the biggest difference between families who build lasting wealth and everyone else isn't how much they earn, but how they think?When we talk about wealth, we often focus on investments, markets, and financial strategies. But for families who successfully build and preserve wealth across generations, the most important conversations often have nothing to do with money at all.In this episode of CIBC Smart Advice, host Carissa Lucreziano sits down with Lana Robinson to explore what she's learned from working closely with successful families and business owners. Through stories and practical examples, Lana shares what successful families have in common when it comes to building wealth, preparing future generations, and creating a legacy that lasts.About Lana RobinsonLana Robinson is Head of Ultra-High Net Worth Private Banking and CIBC Family Office. She works with multi-generational families to articulate a vision for their wealth, their families, and their communities.Partnering closely with ultra-high net worth families and their advisors, Lana helps navigate the complexities of wealth, develop strategies for intergenerational wealth transfer, and build frameworks that support responsible stewardship across generations.In her role, Lana collaborates with advisors across CIBC Private Wealth and experts throughout CIBC North America to deliver highly customized solutions, from banking and investment strategies to complex credit arrangements and specialized planning. Her work focuses on helping families preserve wealth, prepare future generations, and build lasting legacies.Lana holds the Family Enterprise Advisor (FEA), Certified Financial Planner (CFP), and Certified Private Wealth Advisor (CPWA) designations.Visit Lana Robinson's profile on CIBC here.Resources Mentioned / Links List ● CIBC's "Smart Advice" Podcast and Website - Website | Apple Podcasts | Spotify● Visit CIBC for more Smart Advice● Lana Robinson | CIBC● Your guide to estate planning3 Reasons Why You Should Listen to This Episode Discover the habits and conversations that successful families use to build lasting wealthLearn how to prepare the next generation for inheritance and financial responsibilityExplore how families approach big financial decisions.Enjoyed this Episode?If you did, be sure to subscribe and share it with your friends!Building wealth isn't just about numbers. It's also about values, communication, and creating a vision for the future. Whether you're planning for retirement, preparing the next generation, or simply trying to make more intentional financial decisions, this episode offers practical insights that can help you build a stronger financial foundation.Have any questions? You can connect with me on LinkedIn or through CIBC's Facebook or Instagram.Thanks for tuning in! For more updates, visit our website. You can also listen to more amazing episodes on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
Scott tackles July Facebook Group questions. Topics include rolling over a 403(b) when leaving a job; Moving from Equitable to Aspire; Roth IRA vs. Roth 403(b); Performing a 403(b) exchange to a CalSTRS P2 403(b); and What to do with a 403(b) upon retirement. Watch video version Barb O'Neill columns How to Use Aspire Non-Advisor Option 403bwise/457bwiser Facebook Group 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
When God entrusts us with more than we need, the question is not simply “How can we preserve it?” or “How can we grow it?” The deeper question is, “What is this surplus for?” That question moves stewardship beyond spreadsheets, tax strategies, and investment performance. It takes us into matters of the heart, family, calling, and purpose. And for many families, that is where stewardship becomes both more challenging and more meaningful. Rachel McDonough, a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®), Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), and author of The River and the Garden: A Story of Faithfully Stewarding Surplus, joined the show today to explore how Christians can think more deeply about stewarding wealth, especially when they have been entrusted with more than they need for provision. Why Tell a Stewardship Story? Rachel has spent more than 20 years crafting financial plans. So when her publisher first suggested she write fiction about stewardship, she was surprised. After all, much of the financial world is built around practical tools, frameworks, and step-by-step guidance. But Rachel came to see that a story can reach places a spreadsheet cannot. That matters because real families do not fit neatly into formulas. They bring different perspectives, fears, desires, wounds, and hopes to the table. And when money is involved, especially significant money, those relational dynamics often come to the surface. That is part of what makes The River and the Garden unique. It is not a technical manual. It is a parable about wealth, family, faith, and the purposes of God. The River, the Garden, and the Craig Family The novel follows three generations of the Craig family. Maddie, the grandmother and matriarch, has come into a surplus after the sale of a family business. Her son Roger is analytical, driven, and accustomed to solving problems through strategy and optimization. Willow, Maddie's granddaughter, is a young artist who wants little to do with money, numbers, or spreadsheets. Together, they begin a journey that takes them through overlooked neighborhoods in Dallas and even to Rwanda as they explore investment and giving opportunities. Along the way, they wrestle with a central question: What does it look like to steward a surplus faithfully? The imagery of the book is simple but powerful. The river represents capital. The garden represents what we choose to water, cultivate, and grow. That image reframes the way we think about money. Capital is not neutral. It does not merely sit still in an account. It flows somewhere. It waters something. And the faithful steward must ask whether those resources are flowing toward purposes that honor God and serve others. When Capital Becomes Stagnant One of the most striking scenes in the book comes through one of Willow's dreams. In it, she sees dark, stagnant pools of water—a picture of capital left unattended. Rachel says that the image should unsettle thoughtful Christians for at least two reasons. First, capital never truly stands still. We may think of it as simply “sitting” in an investment account, but it is always connected to something. It may be funding businesses, industries, practices, or systems that either contribute to human flourishing or diminish it. Second, surplus wealth needs a purpose. Investing for provision is good and right. Families should plan wisely, save diligently, and seek to provide for their needs. But when a family has more than enough for provision, the conversation should expand. What is the surplus for? Rachel describes surplus as “fuel”—an accelerant for the vision and calling God has placed before a family. That does not mean being careless or impulsive. It means prayerfully assigning purpose to resources rather than allowing them to drift without intention. Provision, Impact, and Prayerful Tension Rachel shared that she and her husband have wrestled personally with this tension between provision and impact. In some cases, they have chosen to invest a portion of their non-retirement savings in redemptive businesses that seek to address serious needs, including a company working toward cancer treatment that could serve not only affluent patients but also people in the Global South. Those choices were not haphazard. They were made through prayer, analysis, planning, and mutual agreement as husband and wife. That is an important distinction. Faithful stewardship is not the same as recklessness. Trusting God does not mean ignoring wisdom. Rather, it means recognizing that the resources God entrusts to us may have purposes beyond our own security. A Book for Those Asking, “What Is This For?” Rachel says The River and the Garden is especially for those who have been entrusted with more than they need and are asking what faithful stewardship looks like now. That may include someone who has received an inheritance, sold a business, accumulated significant assets, or reached a point where the resources exceed what is needed for ordinary provision. For those families, new opportunities may open up in both giving and investing. Many people are familiar with stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and traditional charitable giving. But when surplus is truly available, there may be opportunities to support redemptive businesses, private investments, community development, global work, or other efforts that are not always on a family's radar. Surplus wealth can easily become a source of pride, fear, or conflict. But rightly understood, it can become a tool for joining in the good work God is doing in the world. Aligning Head and Heart At the emotional center of the story is the relationship between Roger and Willow. Roger represents technical mastery. He is confident in spreadsheets, strategies, and optimization. Willow represents relational insight and imagination. She sees the human cost of wealth and longs for transformation, but she initially wants nothing to do with financial conversations. Their journey shows the importance of bringing head and heart together. Faithful stewardship requires wisdom, planning, and diligence. But it also requires love, humility, discernment, and imagination. If we only optimize, we may miss the people and purposes God is inviting us to see. If we only dream, we may neglect the responsibility that comes with stewardship. Near the end of the story, Maddie reflects on the windfall that came from the sale of the business her husband built. She recognizes that the family may have worked too hard and sacrificed too much along the way. She cannot recover the time that was lost, but she can still ask that the money count for something. Many families cannot rewrite the past. They cannot undo every sacrifice, repair every regret, or reclaim every missed moment. But by God's grace, they can still ask what faithfulness looks like today. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm 65 and have an annuity worth about $28,000. I'm considering taking monthly withdrawals from it. Is that a wise option? I've been a member of my church for 10 years and have always tithed from my salary. Lately, I'm struggling with some of the church's spending decisions, including music-related purchases and the shift in support from a women's shelter to library reading programs. How should I think about continuing to tithe when I disagree with how some of the money is being used? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Garden Audit Assessment The River and the Garden: A Story of Faithfully Stewarding Surplus by Rachel McDonough Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
A $300,000 political donation by Security Benefit was the subject of a recent Bloomberg News investigation. We discuss. Source article: Billionaire Boehly's Allies Donated Heavily to Kansas Insurance Regulator 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Doing Divorce Different A Podcast Guide to Doing Divorce Differently
Financial planning for divorce doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Learn how to take control of your money, reduce financial fear, and confidently navigate divorce with expert guidance from Certified Financial Planner Donna Jean Kendrick.Divorce can leave even the smartest women feeling overwhelmed by money. Whether you're preparing for divorce, recovering from widowhood, or simply want to become more financially confident, this conversation is packed with practical advice that can change your future.In this episode of Doing Divorce Different, Lesa sits down with Certified Financial Planner® Donna Jean Kendrick, who transformed her own heartbreaking story into a mission of helping women navigate life's biggest financial transitions.After unexpectedly losing her first husband, Donna discovered firsthand how confusing—and frightening—financial decisions can become during times of grief. Today, she specializes in helping women create confidence, clarity, and financial security through financial planning for divorce, widowhood, and blended families.Together, Lesa and Donna discuss why every woman should understand her finances, regardless of her marital status, and how financial planning for divorce can eliminate fear, provide clarity, and create lasting peace of mind. They also share practical steps you can take today to become financially empowered before a crisis ever happens.Whether you're considering divorce, currently in the middle of one, rebuilding afterward, or simply want to become more financially informed, this episode will leave you feeling hopeful, prepared, and empowered.If you're ready to take action, Donna also shares her free 6-Week Financial Challenge to help you organize your financial life one simple step at a time.Timestamps(00:00) Introduction to Donna Jean Kendrick and her inspiring mission(03:10) Losing her husband and rebuilding life from the ground up(10:12) Why major life transitions make financial decisions so difficult(16:42) The importance of slowing down before making money decisions(21:30) How financial planners help women through divorce and widowhood(27:05) Why knowledge replaces financial fear(34:18) The Divorce Money Map and organizing your financial life(42:14) Lessons every married woman should learn about finances(50:27) Why every woman should understand her own money—even in a happy marriage(58:33) Practical financial habits that create confidence and peace(1:04:45) Donna's books, free resources, and 6-Week Financial ChallengeKey TakeawaysFinancial fear decreases dramatically when you understand what you own, owe, and control.Major life transitions are not the time to make rushed financial decisions—slow down and seek trusted guidance.Every woman should know where important financial documents, accounts, and assets are located, regardless of her relationship status.Building financial confidence starts with small, manageable steps—not becoming an expert overnight.Financial planning is about creating peace of mind, not just growing wealth.Guest BioDonna Jean Kendrick is a **Certified Financial Planner® (CFP®), Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® (CDFA®), author, speaker, and host of the Widow Wisdom & Wealth Podcast. After losing her first husband unexpectedly, Donna dedicated her career to helping widows, divorced women, and blended families confidently navigate life's financial transitions. Through education, compassion, and practical tools, she empowers women to build financial clarity and long-term security.Resource LinksDonna Jean KendrickWebsite: https://donnajeankendrick.comFREE 6-Week Financial ChallengeGet your financial house in order in just six weeks. Each week, Donna sends a short video and simple action step to help you organize your finances and build confidence.https://donnajeankendrick.com/6-week-challenge/Books by Donna Jean KendrickThe Divorce Money MapA Guide to WidowhoodA Guide to Blended FamiliesPodcastWidow Wisdom & Wealth PodcastConnect with Lesa KoskiDoing Divorce Different PodcastTags/Keywordsfinancial planning for divorce, divorce finances, divorce financial planning, divorce money, women and money, financial empowerment for women, divorce coach, divorce mediation, certified financial planner, certified divorce financial analyst, financial confidence, women after divorce, widow financial planning, blended family finances, divorce money map, financial education, budgeting after divorce, divorce preparation, money mindset, divorce support, women over 40, life after divorce, divorce recovery, Doing Divorce Different podcast, Lesa Koski, Donna Jean Kendrick
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
Teacher and Baltimore Teachers Union member Nathan Ferrell walks us through how the stakeholders got it done. He also offers tips on how your district can do the same. Baltimore City Public School's Green-rated 403(b)/457(b) Plan How 403bwise Grades a Plan District Update to Staff About New Plan Bolton USA nferrell@baltu.org 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
On January 6th, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt stood before Congress and outlined four essential freedoms that every human being deserves. He wasn't talking about money. He was talking about human dignity.But in this episode, CFP® and fiduciary advisor David Chudyk reveals what those four freedoms look like when applied to wealth — and why the people who are truly, genuinely financially free have quietly built their own version of all four.This isn't a debt payoff episode. This isn't a cut-your-lattes episode. This is for business owners, high earners, and serious wealth builders who want to understand what financial freedom actually looks like — and what it takes to build every layer of it.THE FOUR FREEDOMS OF THE FINANCIALLY FREEFreedom #1 — From Fear: The Floor You've eliminated the catastrophic scenarios. For business owners, that means de-risking concentration — stop having 100% of your net worth tied up in one illiquid, uninsured asset. For accumulators, it means building a guaranteed income floor you literally cannot fall through: a stream of income that covers your non-negotiables no matter what the market does. When you stop making fear-based decisions, that alone is worth more than almost any investment return.Freedom #2 — From Want: The Clarity This one surprises people. David has sat across from clients with seven-figure portfolios who are still afraid — and that's not a math problem, it's a clarity problem. Freedom from want means knowing your real number, stress-testing it honestly, and replacing anxiety with math-backed confidence. The business owner who knows their exit number can finally evaluate a deal clearly. The accumulator who runs the honest projections stops losing sleep.Freedom #3 — Of Time: The Calendar The most underrated freedom. Wealth that doesn't buy back your time isn't freedom — it's a bigger cage. The goal isn't retirement. The goal is optionality: you work because you want to, not because the machine stops if you step away. This is where the Freedom Point concept lives — that threshold where work becomes a choice, not a sentence. And you don't have to be a business owner to get there.Freedom #4 — For Legacy: The Story Your wealth is a form of speech. It tells a story about what you valued, who you loved, and what mattered. Most estate plans are set-it-and-forget-it. Freedom for legacy means you've written the story intentionally — before someone else writes it for you by default. For business owners, it starts even before the estate plan: it starts with how you exit.WHAT YOU'LL WALK AWAY WITHA completely new definition of financial freedom — not a number, but a four-layer structureThe floor framework for eliminating fear-based financial decisionsWhy high earners with seven-figure portfolios still feel anxious — and the fixHow non-business owners reach the Freedom Point tooWhat intentional legacy planning actually looks like — starting todayEPISODE TIMESTAMPS0:00 — Cold Open: Star-Spangled Banner & FDR's Four Freedoms 2:00 — Reframing financial freedom for high earners and business owners 5:00 — Freedom #1: From Fear — The Floor 11:00 — Freedom #2: From Want — The Clarity 16:00 — Freedom #3: Of Time — The Calendar & The Freedom Point 21:00 — Freedom #4: For Legacy — The Story 25:00 — Stacking All Four & The CloseRESOURCES & NEXT STEPSBook a free 20-minute Vision Call: weeklywealthpodcast.com/vision Figure out which of the four freedoms you're still building — and what comes next. No cost, no pitch, no pressure.Business owners — take the Personal Readiness to Exit assessment: weeklywealthpodcast.com/prescore Get your personal readiness score for a future exit from your business.Get the Exit Planning Book: weeklywealthpodcast.com/endgagebookDavid Chudyk is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®), CLTC, and Certified ValueBuilder Advisor. Founder of Parallel Financial, LLC — a fiduciary registered investment advisor. Investment advisory services offered through Parallel Financial, LLC. This podcast is for educational purposes and does not constitute personalized investment advice. Securities offered through licensed representatives.
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
Dan and Scott share a model anti solicitation policy that school districts could use to ban sales agents from campuses. Downloadable Model Anti Sales Agent Solicitation Policy Podcast: California Tries to Ban 403(b) Sales Agents From Campuses 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
High school science teacher and Buffalo Bills fan helps his colleagues get wise to saving for retirement. 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
New Jersey high school business and personal finance teacher and super 403(b)/457(b) advocate, Chris Nye, moves from high school to elementary school. 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Send us Fan MailThe best financial plans start with who you are and the life you want to live.On this episode of The Get Ready Money Podcast, I spoke with Mike Milligan, CFP and author of The One of a Kind Financial Plan Book about how to build a personalized financial plan and retirement strategy that aligns your money, values, and relationships with the life you want to live.Takeaways
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
Scott is back at it answering your questions which include: Withdrawing money from a Roth 403(b) Keep money in 403(b) at retirement or rollover, and if so to which company? Is the Equitable EQUI-VEST Strategies Series 901 "as bad" as the 201 Series? Purchasing out-of-state pension credit: Do it now or wait? 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
Dan and Scott discuss the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) letter to the SEC regarding collective investment trusts (CITs) in 403(b) plans. They also discuss Vanguard's position. Advice Only Network 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Interview recorded - 29th of May, 2026On this episode of the WTFinance podcast I had the pleasure of welcoming back Ted Oakley. Ted is the founder and managing partner of Oxbow Advisors, with more than four decades advising high net worth clients across multiple cycles. His highest conviction call for 2026 is not tech and it is not even gold. It is hard commodities and the old economy assets the market has spent the past decade ignoring. During our conversation we spoke about the market, historical comparison to other bubbles, how energy is vastly undervalued, AI capex & valuations, government bonds, precious metals and more. I hope you enjoy!0:00 - Introduction1:26 - Overview of markets and economy2:40 - Historical comparison5:50 - Energy companies undervalued9:07 - Commodities12:26 - AI Capex & valuation17:37 - Government bonds19:59 - Precious metals23:46 - Market correction24:51 - One message to takeawayTed Oakley is Managing Partner and Founder of Oxbow Advisors. With more than forty years of experience in advising high net worth clients in the investment industry, Oakley implements the firm's proprietary investment strategies and the “Oxbow Principles” to provide a unique investment perspective. He is a frequent guest on FOX Business News, Bloomberg Radio, KITCO News, Cheddar TV, Yahoo Finance, and many more.Mr. Oakley is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). He is a member of the Austin Society of Financial Analysts. He is also a Partner of Herndon Plant Oakley Ltd., an investment company. He is a Board Member of Texas State Aquarium, American Bank, and American Bank Holding Company. Mr. Oakley is a United States Army Veteran.Mr. Oakley began his career in Dallas, Texas, over 35 years ago. He is the author of nine books: You Sold Your Company, $20 Million and Broke, Rich Kids Broke Kids – The Failure of Traditional Estate Planning, Crazy Time – Surviving the First 12 Months after Selling Your Company, Wall Street Lies, Danger Time, My Story, The Psychology of Staying Rich, and Your Money Mentality.Mr. Oakley's primary philanthropic interest is helping children. He is Chairman Emeritus and Founder of the Foster Angels of South Texas, the largest foster child foundation in South Texas, as well as Chairman Emeritus and Founder of Austin, Texas-based Foster Angels of Central Texas. Also, President and Founder of Advocates for Foster Children Foundation.Ted Oakley - Website - https://oxbowadvisors.com/Twitter - https://twitter.com/Oxbow_AdvisorsLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-oakley-08444a32/YouTube - @OxbowAdvisors WTFinance - Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/67rpmjG92PNBW0doLyPvfniTunes -https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wtfinance/id1554934665?uo=4LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-fatseas-761066103/Twitter - https://twitter.com/AnthonyFatseas
When Omar Morillo talks about wealth management for entrepreneurs, he focuses on one core idea: reducing lifetime tax drag across income, investments, business operations, and eventual liquidity events. The earlier owners start planning, the more options they have. In this episode of the DealQuest Podcast, Corey Kupfer sits down with Omar Morillo, founder of Imperio Wealth Advisors, to discuss what sophisticated pre-exit planning actually looks like for business owners preparing for major liquidity events. Omar breaks down the three levels of tax-aware investing, from simple ETF investing to direct indexing and long-short strategies designed to generate capital loss carryforwards for future gains. He explains why many of the best planning opportunities disappear once an LOI is on the table and why advanced preparation matters. The conversation also explores estate planning, donor advised funds, PPLI structures, and the risks of “flavor-of-the-month” tax strategies that are often oversold to entrepreneurs. Corey and Omar also discuss the emotional side of exits, including why many founders struggle with identity and anxiety after selling the business that defined their lives for years. This episode is packed with practical insights for entrepreneurs thinking about exits, recapitalizations, succession planning, or long-term wealth strategy. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why reducing lifetime tax drag requires planning years before an exit The differences between ETF investing, direct indexing, and long-short strategies How carry-forward capital losses may help offset future gains Why estate planning and liquidity planning matter before a sale The risks and realities of structures like PPLI and QSBS Why founders often struggle emotionally after successful exits OMAR'S JOURNEY Omar Morillo originally planned to become an airline pilot before eventually finding his way into wealth management. Today, he is the founder of Imperio Wealth Advisors, where he advises entrepreneurs and families on tax strategy, liquidity planning, investments, and long-term wealth management. He approaches advisory work through what he calls an “agnostic lens,” focusing on the right strategy for the client rather than attachment to any single product or structure. FOR MORE ON THIS EPISODE https://www.coreykupfer.com/blog/omarmorillo FOR MORE ON OMAR MORILLO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omarmorillo/ Company: https://www.imperiowealthadvisors.com FOR MORE ON COREY KUPFER https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreykupfer/ https://www.coreykupfer.com/ Corey Kupfer is an expert strategist, negotiator, and dealmaker with more than 35 years of professional deal-making and negotiating experience. Corey is a successful entrepreneur, attorney, consultant, author, and professional speaker deeply passionate about deal-driven growth. He is also the creator and host of the DealQuest Podcast. Get deal-ready with the DealQuest Podcast with Corey Kupfer, where entrepreneurs and business leaders share insights, challenges, and success stories around deal-driven growth strategies. The show covers mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, strategic alliances, joint ventures, succession planning, and more. Episode Highlights with Timestamps [00:03:00] - Omar's background and accidental entry into wealth management [00:09:15] - The four layers of lifetime tax drag [00:16:40] - Why pre-exit planning must begin years before an LOI [00:22:10] - The three levels of tax-aware investing [00:30:45] - Direct indexing versus long-short strategies [00:38:20] - PPLI structures and investor control concerns [00:45:50] - The Miami Dolphins estate planning example [00:50:15] - Donor advised funds and charitable planning [01:02:00] - Omar's definition of freedom and legacy Guest Bio Omar Morillo is the founder of Imperio Wealth Advisors, a boutique wealth management firm serving entrepreneurs, business owners, and families navigating liquidity events, tax strategy, investment management, and long-term financial planning. He is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF), and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC). Omar specializes in helping clients reduce lifetime tax drag through coordinated strategies involving portfolio management, estate planning, charitable planning, and pre-exit structuring. His clients are typically entrepreneurs and business owners with substantial wealth concentration and upcoming liquidity events. Host Bio Corey Kupfer is an expert strategist, negotiator, and dealmaker with more than 35 years of professional deal-making and negotiating experience. Corey is a successful entrepreneur, attorney, consultant, author, and professional speaker deeply passionate about deal-driven growth. He is the creator and host of the DealQuest Podcast.Related Episodes Dave Hersh: Founder Identity and the Emotional Impact of Exits DealQuest Wealth Management Series with RIA Industry Acquirers Tom Dillon: Understanding Business Valuation and Exit Planning Realities Keywords/Tags pre-exit tax planning, wealth management for entrepreneurs, direct indexing, long-short investing, PPLI, private placement life insurance, donor advised funds, estate planning, liquidity event planning, tax-aware investing, founder psychology, business exits, capital gains planning, ILIT, QSBS, entrepreneur wealth strategy
In Episode 80 of Harnessing Your Wealth, Billy and Shaun Peterson sit down with John Diehl, Senior Vice President of Applied Insights at Hartford Funds, to discuss one of the most emotional and important conversations families will face—caring for aging parents. Drawing from his work with the MIT AgeLab, John shares practical insight into recognizing early warning signs of aging, navigating difficult family conversations, and planning for future care before a crisis occurs. The discussion explores the emotional and financial realities of caregiving, the importance of preserving dignity and independence, and why avoiding these conversations can create lasting stress and conflict for families. The episode also dives into topics such as long-term care costs, fraud targeting seniors, powers of attorney, family wealth transfer, and the importance of passing down not only assets—but values, wisdom, and legacy. Through personal stories and real-life client experiences, Billy, Shaun, and John highlight how financial planning has evolved far beyond investments into helping families prepare for life's most difficult transitions. Takeaways Aging conversations are difficult, but avoiding them often creates greater emotional and financial stress later. Families should begin discussing caregiving, health concerns, and future wishes before a crisis occurs. Early warning signs of aging can appear gradually and may impact driving, finances, memory, and daily routines. Preserving dignity and independence is one of the most important parts of caring for aging parents. Financial planning today involves much more than investments—it includes family communication, caregiving preparation, and legacy planning. Long-term care costs can significantly impact retirement and family finances if not planned for early. Powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and estate planning documents are essential for every family. About our Guest: John Diehl has been with The Hartford and Hartford Funds for more than 30 years. He's a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and also holds Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU®) and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®) designations. As Senior Vice President of Applied Insights, John leads Hartford Funds' research efforts with the MIT AgeLab as well as other thought leaders. He oversees a team of industry experts who translate this research into actionable ideas for financial professionals and their clients across the U.S. John's views on the future of retirement planning have been published in the Wall Street Journal, Financial Planning magazine, and other publications, and he's been a featured guest on CNBC and Bloomberg Television. John also hosts the Hartford Funds' newly reimagined Human-centric Investing Podcast. Connect with John Diehl: Human-centric Investing Podcast LinkedIn Hartford Funds Resources & Previous Episodes of Interest: Real Stories of Fraud and Embezzlement – Part 2 (Ep. 46) Real Stories of Fraud and Embezzlement (Ep. 45) Investor Insights: The Current Market Mania (Ep. 30) Connect with Billy Peterson: Peterson Wealth Services: Billy Peterson LinkedIn: Billy Peterson Facebook: Peterson Wealth Services Instagram: Peterson Wealth Services YouTube: Peterson Wealth Services billy@petersonws.com 801-475-4002 Books by Billy Peterson can be purchased here Connect with Cade Peterson: Peterson Wealth Services: Cade Peterson LinkedIn: Cade Peterson cade@petersonws.com 801-475-4002 Connect with Shaun Peterson: Peterson Wealth Services: Shaun Peterson LinkedIn: Shaun Peterson shaun@petersonws.com 801-475-400 This presentation is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as individualized investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security, strategy, or investment product. The views and opinions expressed by the guest speaker are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Peterson Wealth. The guest speaker is not affiliated with Peterson Wealth, and Peterson Wealth does not endorse or guarantee the accuracy of third-party information. The guest is not paid compensation for their participation; however, he/she may receive a non-cash gift from the firm. Peterson Wealth is a registered investment advisor with the SEC. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Past performance is not indicative of future results. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Any examples or illustrations used in this presentation are hypothetical in nature and for demonstration purposes only. You should consult with your personal financial, tax, or legal advisor before making any investment decisions.
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
CEO Eric Simonson discusses the Advice-Only Network, a service that provides access to advice-only fiduciary financial planners from around the country. Advice Only Network 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Send us Fan MailMany people retire expecting financial stability—only to realize later they need or want to return to work. This growing trend, known as “unretirement,” can offer purpose and income… but it also comes with hidden financial consequences.In this episode of Informed Aging, Robin Rountree sits down with John Davis, CFP® and IRS Enrolled Agent, to break down what happens when you go back to work after claiming Social Security. From benefit reductions to unexpected taxes and planning opportunities, this conversation helps listeners make informed decisions before reentering the workforce.John Davis is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and IRS Enrolled Agent (EA) specializing in retirement planning and tax strategy. He works with clients nationwide to help them make informed decisions about their financial future.Connect with John Davis Website: jkdfinancial.com Email: john@jkdfinancial.com Phone: (417) 267-1042Support the Alzheimer's & Dementia Resource Center
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
We discuss the proposed bill, and speak with a teacher who advocated for its passage. Chico Unified School District 403(b)/457(b) Vendor List AB2197 AB2197 Analysis 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
She called her advisor on closing day. Boxes still everywhere, no movers available, hours until she had to be out. He showed up in his truck, spent four hours hauling boxes to a friend's garage, and wouldn't let her pay a dime. That's the kind of advisor Dan Carver is, and that story tells you more about his practice than any credential ever could.Dan Carver is a St. Louis-based financial advisor with 26 years of experience helping ordinary people make smart decisions with their money. His book, Blue Jean Millionaire, takes its title from a formative observation Dan made in high school: the wealthiest kids in his class were often the ones in jeans and flannel, driving beat-up cars, quietly letting their money work. The flashy ones were a different story. That early lesson has shaped how Dan advises clients ever since.In this episode, Dan joins Gabe McManus for a wide-ranging conversation on what real wealth looks like, the hidden dangers of financial disorganization, and how good advisors push clients toward decisions they'd rather avoid. Dan shares stories from 26 years in the field — a million-dollar 401k with no beneficiary, a carpenter who needed life insurance and didn't want to hear it, nurses burned out by COVID who needed a new plan fast, and couples who looked wealthy from the outside but were drowning in debt.About Dan Carver Dan Carver is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) based in St. Louis, Missouri, with 26 years of experience in financial advising. He specializes in helping middle-class families and everyday investors build long-term financial security through disciplined, conservative planning. Dan is the author of Blue Jean Millionaire, a personal finance book for people who want to build real wealth — not through windfalls or speculation, but through good decisions made consistently over time.Connect with Dan Carver
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
Scott answers four saving for retirement questions commonly asked in the 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group. We check his answers with AI. Let's just say we wouldn't trust the robots yet. 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise & 457bwiser Facebook Group Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” - Ecclesiastes 3:1 Life moves in seasons—and with each season often comes new challenges, new opportunities, and sometimes new financial finish lines. On today's episode of Faith and Finance, we were joined by Cody Hobelmann, a Certified Financial Planner® (CFP), Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA), and co-founder of Finish Line Pledge, to discuss why adjusting your financial finish line is not only okay—it can be wise and faithful. What Is a Financial Finish Line? A financial finish line is simply an answer to the question: How much is enough? It helps separate what we intend to use for our own needs from what we can make available for Kingdom purposes. Rather than endlessly increasing lifestyle spending or accumulating wealth without direction, a finish line provides clarity and purpose. For many people, the idea of setting a finish line can feel intimidating. It may sound final or restrictive. But Cody emphasized that a finish line is not about perfection—it is about growth. Your first finish line does not have to be your last. Why Finish Lines Need to Be Revisited Just as a financial plan should be reviewed regularly, your finish line should be revisited as life changes. There are many reasons to adjust it: A new child or dependent enters your family Someone is no longer financially dependent on you You move to a region with a different cost of living Your health changes Major life transitions reshape your responsibilities These shifts may change the cost of maintaining the same lifestyle, making it wise to reassess your financial boundaries. At first glance, caps and limits can sound restrictive. But Cody shared that in practice, setting a finish line often creates freedom. Instead of constantly wondering if you need more, you begin to experience: Contentment Peace Purpose That reflects a biblical pattern. God's boundaries are not meant to diminish joy but to protect and deepen it. Financial limits can function the same way. Two Types of Finish Lines 1. A Lifestyle Finish Line This is the amount needed to support your current and future lifestyle. It helps determine the appropriate and sustainable level of spending. 2. A Net Worth Finish Line This is the amount of wealth you believe is wise to accumulate over your lifetime. Cody connected this idea to Luke 12 and the parable of the rich fool, who stored up more than he needed while missing the deeper purpose of his resources. The issue was not wealth itself, but accumulation without a Kingdom perspective. Three Questions to Help Define “Enough” Cody highlighted three key areas to prayerfully consider: Your Lifestyle Needs - What does it truly cost to live faithfully and responsibly in this season? Wealth Transfer - What resources would you like to pass on to heirs or future stewards? Conservative Margin - What reserve is wise for life's uncertainties—without placing ultimate trust in money? These categories can help shape a thoughtful and prayerful plan. If You're Beyond Your Finish Line If you realize you are accumulating more than needed, Cody suggested asking one important question: Why am I holding on to these resources in the first place? That question can expose fear, habit, or misplaced trust—and open the door to greater generosity and purpose. Start Before You Feel Ready One of the most practical insights from the conversation was this: don't wait until you “arrive” to become generous. Even if you have not reached your finish line, begin giving now. Build habits of generosity with what God has already entrusted to you. As Scripture reminds us, “You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion” (2 Corinthians 9:11). A Practical First Step Not sure where to begin? Try setting a finish line for the next 90 days. You do not need a lifelong blueprint today. You only need the next faithful step. Experiment, learn, pray, and refine along the way. Your finish line is not a rigid rule—it is a discipleship tool. It reminds you that everything belongs to God, and you are a steward of what He has entrusted to you. In every season, the goal is not simply to have more. The goal is to know what is enough, live with contentment, and be ready to participate in God's Kingdom purposes with joy. If you'd like help prayerfully answering the question, How much is enough? FaithFi has created its very first FaithFi Field Guide: How Much Money Is Enough? This practical, workbook-style resource is designed to help you define your finish line with biblical wisdom and sound financial principles. You can receive it when you become a FaithFi Partner by May 31, at $35 per month or $400 per year. Visit FaithFi.com/Give to learn more and become a partner today. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: My wife and I are both 62. I'm still working, but with health concerns, should she start Social Security now and invest it, or should we both wait? I have $600,000 in a traditional IRA. Should I convert it all to a Roth at once or gradually over several years? Also, can I receive Social Security and contribute that money directly into a Roth IRA? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) A Spending Finish Line is Just the Beginning by Cody Hobelmann (Article in Faithful Steward, Issue 2) The Finish Line Pledge Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
EPISODE SUMMARYIn this special annual episode, host and CFP David Chudyk steps away from financial strategy to do something he calls "the forbidden" — talk about himself. This episode is designed as a first step for anyone considering working with David as their financial advisor. He shares his background, his philosophy on money and life, who he works best with, and what makes his practice unique.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODEDavid's origin story — growing up in New York and the money mindset he developed early in lifeHow his career evolved from tennis director to Nationwide Insurance agency owner to independent CFPWhy he joined Parallel Financial in 2019 and what that means for his clientsThe behavioral finance philosophy that drives every client relationshipWho David's ideal client is — and who might be a better fit elsewhereWhat the "fit meeting" is and why the "nice person test" is non-negotiableThe difference between delegators, collaborators, and do-it-yourselfers — and why it mattersHow his CFP designation, long-term care certification, and Value Builder advisor credential work togetherWhy risk management is the most overlooked part of financial planningHow to take the next step and schedule a no-cost vision callKEY TIMESTAMPS00:00 — Intro: Why David does a "Get to Know Me" episode once a year 02:00 — David's background: growing up in New York, early money beliefs 06:00 — Career journey: tennis director, financial services, Nationwide agency 11:00 — Going independent: joining Parallel Financial in 2019 14:00 — The Weekly Wealth Podcast origin story 17:00 — David's philosophy: behavioral finance and why returns aren't everything 21:00 — Who David works with: ideal client profile 25:00 — Delegators, collaborators, and do-it-yourselfers 28:00 — Credentials and what makes the practice different 32:00 — The Value Builder advantage for business owners 36:00 — Accountability: what working with David actually looks like 39:00 — How to take the next step: the vision call(Update timestamps to match your final edit)QUOTABLE MOMENTS"I think the right financial advisor is one of the most important relationships you'll ever have — not because of the returns, but because of what a real plan actually does for your life.""How we handle our money should positively impact our lives and the lives of those around us.""My ideal client isn't someone in financial trouble. It's someone who's done really well and knows they could be doing even better with the right strategy and the right person in their corner.""Thinking about completing estate planning documents and actually completing them are not the same thing.""Most people don't fail financially because they don't make enough money. They fall short because they never had a real plan or the right person helping them execute it."RESOURCES & LINKSSchedule your free 10-minute Vision Call: weeklywealthpodcast.com/vision Chudyk Financial Services and Insurance Group: cfsig.net Weekly Wealth Podcast: weeklywealthpodcast.com Parallel Financial — Registered Investment Advisor, Greenville, SC Value Builder System — Business valuation and sellability planningABOUT DAVID CHUDYKDavid Chudyk is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) with Parallel Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor based in Greenville, SC. He is also the owner of Chudyk Financial Services and Insurance Group (CFSIG) in Seneca, SC, and holds the Certified Long-Term Care (CLTC) designation and the Certified Value Builder Advisor credential. David has held his CFP designation since 2006 and has been insurance licensed since the early 2000s. He is the host of the Weekly Wealth Podcast and believes that how we handle our money should positively impact our lives and the lives of those around us.DISCLAIMERThe information presented on this podcast is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Parallel Financial is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as a Registered Investment Advisor. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training, nor does it constitute an endorsement by the SEC. All investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Please consult a qualified financial professional before making any financial decisions.
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
University of Tennessee Agricultural and Resource Economics professor Karen DeLong talks growing up on a farm, getting financially wise, and sharing her knowledge with students and university athletes. Professor Karen DeLong 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
“Beware lest you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth.' You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth.” — Deuteronomy 8:17–18 How much money is enough? It's a question that quietly shapes many of our financial decisions, yet few people ever stop to answer it. On today's episode of Faith and Finance, we were joined by Cody Hobelmann, a Certified Financial Planner® (CFP), Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA), and co-founder of Finish Line Pledge, to explore a practical and deeply biblical framework for answering that question. Why Prosperity Can Be a Greater Test Than Hardship In Deuteronomy 8, Moses addressed the people of Israel as they stood on the edge of the Promised Land after 40 years in the wilderness. They had endured hunger, uncertainty, and hardship. But Moses warned them that their greater challenge would come after entering abundance. Would they remember the Lord as their provider, or would they begin to believe their wealth came from their own strength? That warning remains relevant today. In one of the most prosperous cultures in history, it is easy to drift into self-reliance, entitlement, or endless accumulation. Prosperity can subtly shift our trust away from God unless we intentionally resist it. Five Ways People Typically Approach Giving Cody explained that when people ask, “How much should I give?” or “How much should I keep?” they often fall into one of five common approaches: 1. Spontaneous Giving. Giving in the moment, with little prior planning. 2. Giving Goals. Choosing a target dollar amount to give during the year. 3. Percentage Giving. Giving a fixed percentage of income. 4. Incremental Percentage Giving. Increasing the percentage you give over time as income grows. 5. Financial Finish Line. Rather than beginning with how much to give, this approach starts by deciding how much to keep for personal lifestyle spending—and then directing the rest toward Kingdom purposes. That final model flips the normal mindset upside down. Instead of expanding lifestyle every time income rises, it sets boundaries around consumption and creates margin for generosity. What Is a Financial Finish Line? A financial finish line is a predetermined cap on how much you will spend on your own lifestyle. Once your needs and responsibilities are covered, any additional resources can be used to bless others, support ministry, and advance God's work. Cody suggested thinking about finances in four broad categories: Personal Spending – Current lifestyle expenses such as housing, transportation, food, and clothing Taxes – Required obligations Planning for the Future – Saving for upcoming needs, purchases, or retirement Kingdom Building – Giving and other outward-focused uses of money that serve others The key focus is often personal spending because lifestyle choices tend to determine whether increased income becomes a tool for generosity or simply fuels more consumption. Three Practical Ways to Set Your First Finish Line There is no universal number for everyone, but Cody shared three common ways people can begin. 1. Maintenance Spending Finish Line This means locking in your current standard of living. If your present lifestyle spending is healthy and appropriate, you choose not to automatically increase it as your income grows. This can guard against lifestyle creep and free future increases in income for other purposes. 2. Benchmark Spending Finish Line This method uses outside data or planning tools to help determine a reasonable level of spending. Instead of relying only on personal feelings, you compare your lifestyle to objective benchmarks to help guide wise decisions. 3. Prioritization Spending Finish Line This approach starts with your current budget and evaluates each category through the lens of values. Ask questions like: Does this spending reflect what matters most? Is this helping or distracting me spiritually? What could be reduced to make room for greater purpose? As you trim what is unnecessary, your spending becomes more intentional and aligned with your calling. Setting a finish line can feel like a major decision, especially at first. But it does not need to be permanent or perfect. Cody encouraged listeners to try a finish line for three or six months. Many people discover that once they place healthy limits on their lifestyle, they experience greater freedom, clarity, and joy in generosity. That is why it is called your first finish line. It can be adjusted over time as life circumstances change. Is This Only for the Wealthy? Not at all. Cody shared that he set his first finish line at age 26 while his wife was in school, and they were far from what many would consider financially established. The principle is not about reaching a certain net worth before applying it. It is about learning to define “enough” now. If enough is never defined, it can remain forever out of reach. A financial finish line is more than a budgeting strategy. It is a spiritual exercise in contentment, trust, and surrender. It invites us to ask not merely, “How much can I accumulate?” but “How much do I really need—and what might God want to do with the rest?” That question has the power to reshape both our finances and our hearts. A Resource to Help You Define Enough If you've ever wrestled with how much money is enough, FaithFi has created a new workbook-style resource called the FaithFi Field Guide that answers the question: How Much Money Is Enough? This Field Guide is designed to help you think through that question both spiritually and practically. To learn more or become a FaithFi Partner with your gift of $35 a month or $400 a year, you can visit FaithFi.com/Give. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm about to start annuity payments and want to give directly to charity from the annuity. If I don't exceed the standard deduction, is there still any tax benefit? My husband and I are in our early 60s, debt-light, mortgage-free, and have assets in precious metals and property, but no life insurance. Do we really need a small policy if we have no dependents? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) The Finish Line Pledge Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
Scott and Dan share their new resource and the reasoning behind it. 457bwiser.org Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
Scott and Dan discuss the proposed AXA/Equitable and Corebridge merger and what it could mean for participants. Three ways the Corebridge/Equitable merger could shake up the annuity market Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
403(b) super advocates Steve Schullo, Karl Fisch, and Scott Dauenhauer have been driving electric vehicles for years. They share their experiences and offer tips for those considering EVs. Karl's EV data Join Us on April 5, 2026 for a Special Announcement. Info here Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
We dig into how to move money to a better employer vendor. In the 403(b) world this is called an "exchange." In the 457(b) world this is called a "transfer." How to intiate an exchange/transfer from one employer vendor to another Determine compliance administrator Determine if exchanges/transfers are permitted (almost always are) Determine what new vendors are available (see 403bwise rating system) Contact current vendor and ask for paperwork for an "exchange-out" "or "transfer out" Open account with new vendor Ask new vendor if exchange/transfer paperwork is needed Check if compliance administrator requires paperwork Follow all instructions carefully. Exited vendor often unhelpful. Stay on top of process. Support for exchange/transfer process: The 403bwise Facebook Group Join Us on April 5, 2026 for a Special Announcement. Info here Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
Employers can contribute to a 457(b) but their additions count against the contribution limit. We discuss a workaround: adding a 401(a) plan, which surely Fonzie would give two thumbs up. What Are 401(a) Plans? Join Us on April 5, 2026 for a Special Announcement. Info here Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
With an assist from the Wealthy Custodian, a California fin lit teacher teaches and learns key fin lit concepts. Next Gen Personal Finance The Wealthy Custodian Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
The Ohio 457(b) is superb. Why did the Ohio ASBO create a low-quality 457(b) to compete with the great Ohio state plan? Doh! ASBO (Substack write up with charts) The Excellent Ohio 457(b) Plan (pod) Pablo Torre Finds Out Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Michelle Arpin Begina is the Founder of MichelleAB, where she empowers professional women to gain financial freedom. She is also the Senior Partner and Managing Director at Snowden Lane Partners, an independent wealth advisory firm. As a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA®), Michelle has over 20 years of experience in financial literacy. In this episode… Women strive to maximize their careers, relationships, and health, but struggle to manage their finances. Despite having advisors and resources, many still feel insecure or avoidant around financial decisions. Why are conversations around money so uncomfortable, and how can women break this barrier? According to financial advisor and therapist Michelle Arpin Begina, our earliest money experiences and unconscious emotional patterns shape our financial perspectives as adults. She explains the importance of identifying emotional triggers and embedded beliefs surrounding money that influence decision-making. Security, freedom, power, and love often drive financial behaviors, so Michelle encourages women to reflect on their first money conversations and explore how these narratives influence them. In this episode of the Lead Like a Woman Show, Andrea Heuston interviews Michelle Arpin Begina, Founder of MichelleAB, about how past experiences shape financial decisions. Michelle talks about financial déjà vu, the four emotional motivations behind money behavior, and the role of vulnerability in building financial confidence.
Money isn't just numbers.It's memory. Emotion. Identity. Survival.In this episode, Craig sits down with Hannah Chapman to explore why money feels so charged — and how our earliest experiences quietly shape the way we earn, spend, save, and stress.Hannah breaks down how emotional safety, childhood conditioning, and nervous system patterns influence our financial decisions, often without us realizing it. This conversation dives into:Why money triggers anxiety, avoidance, or controlHow early experiences create lifelong financial habitsWhy earning more doesn't heal emotional scarcityWhat real financial freedom actually looks likeThis isn't about budgets or hustle culture.It's about healing your relationship with money at the root.If you've ever felt stressed about finances, avoided looking at your numbers, or repeated the same patterns despite your best efforts — this episode will help you understand why.About Our Guest:Hannah Chapman is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) with over 20 years of experience helping entrepreneurs navigate the emotional and practical complexities of money.As the founder of X-Squared Wealth Planning and Expansive CEO, she supports visionary business owners in creating financial clarity, long-term security, and a healthier relationship with wealth.Hannah uniquely integrates traditional financial planning and investment strategy with Human Design, Gene Keys, and money psychology — bringing both the intellect and the heart into the wealth-building process so prosperity becomes something you live, not something you chase.Connect with Hannah and explore her work:https://hannahrchapman.com
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
Many teachers are offered a subsidized Medicare plan from their school district when they retire. They are told this is a great benefit that they have contributed to their whole career. Sounds great, right? Most don't realize that what they are being offered is not traditional Medicare. It is a more restrictive form of healthcare called Medicare Advantage. They also don't realize that the choice they make at 65 can affect their healthcare options for the rest of their lives. As they get older and require more healthcare, they may not be able to switch to original Medicare. We speak with a woman who describes the ordeal she went through to escape Medicare "Advantage." What I Learned Trying to Leave an Employer-Sponsored Medicare Advantage Plan Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
Jeremy Schneider, a founder of Nectarine, an innovative advice-only service that provides access to a fiduciary advisor on an hourly basis, explains what a "deadbox" is and why you might want one. Nectarine Personal Finance Club IG Account Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
Ken Ford of Ford Wealth Management, who we first interviewed in 2015, shares why he is done with the K-12 403(b) market. Ford Wealth Management 2015 Pod with Ken The 7Twelve Portfolio Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Teach and Retire Rich - The podcast for teachers, professors and financial professionals
We catch up with Jeremy Schneider, a founder of Nectarine, an innovative advice-only service that provides access to a fiduciary advisor on an hourly basis. He updates us on the growth and the new services being offered. Nectarine March 2024 Pod with Jeremy Learned by Being Burned (short pod series about K-12 403(b) issues) 403bwise.org Meridian Wealth Management Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).