Podcast appearances and mentions of Cole Williams

In this season finale episode of What I Know Now by The Delta Project, host Cole Williams sits down with Adam Hoeksma, owner of Shiny Diamond Auto Detailing & Hand Wash, Grand Rapids native, father, grandfather, and dedicated community mentor. Together, they explore real stories of resilience, second chances, and the transformative impact of support systems on youth navigating the juvenile justice system.Adam Hoeksma shares how a family's encouragement turned a childhood passion for cars into a thriving business, sustaining him for over 37 years. He opens up about the journey from youthful mistakes—including a life-changing experience in prison—to building legacy through entrepreneurship, community engagement, and mentorship for youth with juvenile justice involvement.Listeners will discover the importance of supporting young people to discover their passions, the realities of returning home with a felony record, and the challenges and opportunities for personal and community growth in Grand Rapids. This episode dives into topics like generational wisdom, fatherhood, overcoming societal stigmas, the power of community-driven events, and what it means to genuinely uplift the next generation.Whether you're interested in youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, breaking cycles of incarceration, or reimagining the juvenile justice system, this episode offers practical insights, heartfelt stories, and motivation to get involved and make a difference. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about legacy, identity, and finding purpose—no matter where you start.

Tonight Pro Late Model racer Cole Williams called in to the BBBP studio. He is a 4th generation racer who has driven everything from Mini Cups to Pro late models, ARCA and even got to compete in the SRX Series event at Nashville Fairgrounds a few years back. 2 time NFS Pro Late model champion who is back for more.OH YEAH!

Retirement planning is about more than investments, savings targets, and account balances. In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, Nick Nauta sits down with Cole Williams to discuss the Kinder Institute approach to financial life planning. Cole shares insights from his Registered Life Planner training and explains how financial planning can help people connect their money to the life they truly want to live. Together, they walk through George Kinder’s three powerful life planning questions and discuss how these conversations help uncover priorities, values, and what really matters most. Topics covered include: What financial life planning is and why it matters George Kinder’s influence on modern life planning The importance of active listening in financial planning Why retirement planning should begin with your vision for life The three Kinder questions and how they uncover your priorities The difference between return on investment and return on life How to identify your “enough.” Why clarity often matters more than financial complexity How the SRB process helps clients connect their goals with their finances The role of accountability and support in creating meaningful change Whether you are approaching retirement or simply want greater clarity around your financial future, this episode offers a practical framework for aligning your money with what matters most. Mentioned in this episode: George Kinder Registered Life Planner (RLP) Program LifePlanningForYou.com Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer The post S5E12 – Financial Life Planning: Finding Purpose Beyond the Numbers appeared first on Shotwell Rutter Baer.

**The Groove Doctors Friday Drive Time Show Replay On traxfm.org. This Week The Groove Doctor Featured 80's Grooves/Rare Groove/Contemporary Soul From Keni Burke. Sass. Eramus Hall. Gene Rice. Cole Williams. Kenny Sway. Rufus. Betty Wright. Muscle Shoals Horns & More #originalpirates #soulmusic #boogie #80ssoul #RareGrooves Catch The Groove Doctors Friday Drive Time Show Every Friday From 5PM UK Time On traxfm.org Listen Live Here Via The Trax FM Player: chat.traxfm.org/player/index.html Mixcloud LIVE :mixcloud.com/live/traxfm Free Trax FM Android App: play.google.com/store/apps/det...mradio.ba.a6bcb The Trax FM Facebook Page : facebook.com/profile.php?id=10...100092342916738 Trax FM Live On Hear This: hearthis.at/k8bdngt4/live Tunerr: tunerr.co/radio/Trax-FM Radio Garden: Trax FM Link: radio.garden/listen/trax-fm/IEnsCj55 OnLine Radio Box: onlineradiobox.com/uk/trax/?cs...cs=uk.traxRadio Radio Deck: radiodeck.com/radio/5a09e2de87...7e3370db06d44dc Radio.Net: traxfmlondon.radio.net Stream Radio : streema.com/radios/Trax_FM..The_Originals Live Online Radio: liveonlineradio.net/english/tr...ax-fm-103-3.htm**

In this powerful episode of What I Know Now, host Cole Williams welcomes Dee Dee Taylor, founder and president of Taylor Made Re-Entry, for a candid conversation about the realities of reentry after incarceration. Together, they dig deep into the urgent need to reimagine the juvenile justice and criminal justice systems, exploring the human stories often hidden behind statistics.Dee Dee shares her inspiring journey as a national leader, shaped by personal experience with incarceration in her family—including the tragic loss of her sister, Breonna Taylor. She reveals what it's really like for men and women returning home after jail or prison, highlighting barriers like poverty, lack of resources, and gaps in support and community understanding.This episode tackles tough questions: Why is reentry work still dominated by men? How does incarceration impact not just individuals but entire families? What does healing and forgiveness look like for people affected by the justice system? Hear stories of resilience, the importance of second chances, and the behind-the-scenes work happening in Michigan to empower returning citizens through housing, employment, mental health support, and more.Whether you have a loved one in jail, work in criminal justice, or just care about building safer, more humane communities, tune in for eye-opening insights, practical solutions, and hope that real change is possible. Don't miss this moving talk about compassion, accountability, and seeing the humanity in everyone touched by incarceration.

In this unique episode of What I Know Now, host Cole Williams sits down with Michael Buxton—Grand Rapids business owner, film director, and formerly incarcerated man—for an unfiltered conversation about growing up in poverty, navigating the realities of the juvenile and adult justice systems, and rebuilding a life after incarceration.Michael Buxton shares his journey from a childhood surrounded by single-parent households and street influences to becoming a young father and facing a lengthy prison sentence. He opens up about the impact of absent family support, the challenges of re-entering society after ten years behind bars, and the flaws in a system that claims to rehabilitate but often leaves people unprepared for life on the outside.Listeners will hear candid reflections on healing, hope, and the importance of relationships and community in breaking the cycle of incarceration. Michael Buxton also discusses his entrepreneurial path, the lessons learned from failure, and how he uses his lived experiences to invest in the next generation through mentorship, business ownership (shoutout to Loaded Spud!), and community leadership.Whether you're interested in juvenile justice reform, personal transformation, or the human stories behind America's justice system, this episode is a must-listen. Join us for insights into accountability, the power of a good name, and why changing the narrative matters—for individuals, families, and whole communities.

April 16, 2026. Cole Williams

What if young people had a real voice in the justice system? In this moving episode of "What I Know Now," host Cole Williams sits down with Cayden Brown, a 19-year-old advocate, TEDx speaker, and author who's transforming juvenile justice across the nation and world. From serving as a teen court defense attorney at 17 to addressing the United Nations and writing a powerful children's book, Cayden has devoted his life to reimagining how youth are treated in legal systems.Discover the human impact of juvenile justice reform as Cayden shares his inspiring journey—from navigating the court system as a child to leading the Trespass Project, a nonprofit making legal information accessible to youth everywhere. Hear in-depth insights on restorative justice, the power of lived experience, and why it's time for young people's voices to shape the policies and decisions that define their lives. There is also a surprise in this episode about Cayden's most recent project - you won't want to miss it. Whether you're a parent, advocate, educator, or simply passionate about creating a fairer world, this episode will challenge assumptions and spark critical conversations about youth empowerment, trauma, and how true change happens when we listen to those most affected. Don't miss this heartfelt, eye-opening interview that will leave you rethinking what justice and voice really mean for the next generation.Keywords: juvenile justice, teen court, restorative justice, youth empowerment, legal reform, TED Talk, children's rights, trauma, advocacy, lived experience, Michigan, The Delta Project, Trespass Project, young voices

April 9, 2026. Cole Williams

In this powerful episode of "What I Know Now" by The Delta Project, hosts Cole Williams and Nick Williams sit down with Grand Rapids legend Derrick "Coach O" Owens, a basketball coach, mentor, and father figure whose journey epitomizes resilience and self-discovery. Dive into Coach O's remarkable story as he reflects on overcoming adversity, growing up in the foster care system in Detroit, and finding purpose through mentorship and a lifelong love of basketball.This episode explores essential themes like self-love, fatherhood, community impact, and the vital role of respect in connecting with youth. Coach O shares hard-won lessons about discipline, accountability, and the generational cycles within America's justice system. You'll hear inspiring insights about coaching as a ministry, supporting young fathers, the importance of using names over numbers, and redefining what it means to be both a parent and a friend.Whether you're interested in juvenile justice reform, youth empowerment, mentorship, black fatherhood, or authentic leadership, this heartfelt conversation offers wisdom, practical advice, and hope. Tune in for Coach O's seven rules for life, his transformative work with the Delta Project, and personal stories that will resonate far beyond the basketball court.Perfect for parents, educators, mentors, and anyone passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people. Don't miss this honest, no-holds-barred look at the human stories behind the justice system—and what it truly means to change the world, one relationship at a time.

Welcome to What I Know Now, a Podcast by The Delta Project. In this episode, we dive into the realities of reimagining the juvenile justice system with special guest Liz Frederick, Executive Director of Avenues for Justice. Hosted by Cole Williams, this conversation explores the transformative impact of community-based alternatives to incarceration, the importance of wraparound support for youth and their families, and the power of lived experience in advocacy.Through personal stories and deep insights, Liz Frederick shares her nearly 20-year journey at Avenues for Justice, highlighting how the program not only serves court-involved youth but also their siblings and at-risk peers. Together, Cole Williams and Liz Frederick tackle tough questions about systemic barriers, trauma, and the need for true safe spaces—both physical and virtual. They discuss breaking the cycle of generational incarceration, investing in holistic services from education to job readiness, and why lasting change means supporting both young people and their families.If you're passionate about justice reform, mentorship, and grassroots solutions, this episode will challenge, inspire, and inform you. Tune in to hear how resilience, leadership, and community drive meaningful progress for youth in the juvenile justice system,and what more we can do moving forward.

February 26, 2026 . Cole Williams

February 26, 2026 . Cole Williams

What happens when artificial intelligence meets the world of justice and youth reform? In this thought-provoking episode, host Cole Williams welcomes renowned criminologist and data activist Renee Cummings for a deep dive into the intersection of technology, civil rights, and justice for young people.Together, they explore the power—and dangers—of data and algorithms in shaping identities, opportunities, and futures. From the history of predictive policing to the untapped potential of AI for rehabilitation and reentry, Renee Cummings breaks down complex issues like data justice, algorithmic bias, and the importance of imagination as a tool for change. The conversation covers everything from practical advice for parents and young people navigating social media to radical ideas for rethinking prisons and using tech for immersive, trauma-informed interventions.Whether you're a mentor, nonprofit leader, parent, or just curious about technology's growing impact on society, this episode is packed with must-know insights on ethical technology, civil liberties, and what real justice reform could look like for our most vulnerable communities.Tune in for powerful stories, practical takeaways, and a forward-thinking vision for justice in the AI age.

February 12, 2026. Cole Williams

In this episode of "What I Know Now" from The Delta Project, Host Cole Williams sits down with Nala Barlow, a clinical mental health professional working inside a juvenile detention center. Together, they unpack how childhood experiences shaped Nala Barlow's journey from surviving instability, homelessness, and parental addiction to becoming a beacon of hope for youth impacted by America's justice system.Nala Barlow shares raw, unfiltered memories of growing up as a "parentified kid," struggling in environments filled with chaos, and longing for adult support. Through powerful storytelling, the episode explores themes of trauma, generational cycles, and the impact of undiagnosed mental health issues in families. Listeners will discover how relationships—like those with Nala Barlow's grandfather, basketball coaches, and mentors—provided essential lifelines and helped foster resilience, belonging, and a sense of purpose.This episode addresses tough questions around how society labels “bad kids,” underscoring the importance of seeing past behaviors to the pain and stories underneath. Cole Williams and Nala Barlow challenge listeners to reconsider their assumptions about youth in the juvenile justice system, highlighting the transformative power of unconditional love and consistent, caring adults.Whether you're a parent, educator, mentor, or someone passionate about social justice and youth advocacy, this episode offers moving insights into trauma, healing, and the critical power of compassionate relationships. Tune in for candid conversations on redemption, accountability, and how one person's journey can shine a light for countless others.Listen now to discover what Nala Barlow knows now—and why love is the answer to healing our communities.

Welcome to "What I Know Now," a podcast by The Delta Project, where we dive deep into the realities and reimagination of the juvenile justice system. In this episode, Cole Williams, Nick Williams, and special guest Indu Wilson—the Deputy Director of Youth Experience at the Wayne County Juvenile Detention Facility in Detroit—shine a light on what it truly means to serve, support, and love young people in detention.Through powerful storytelling and firsthand accounts, you'll discover how Indu Wilson and her team are moving away from old models of punishment, choosing instead a trauma-informed and empathetic approach that sees detained youth as children in need of care, dignity, and opportunity. From creative initiatives like barbershop libraries and music labs, to the transformative impact of lived-experience mentors and robust staff training, this episode challenges stereotypes and highlights innovative practices that foster healing and connection.Join us as we explore how community, compassion, and visionary leadership are making a difference for young people who find themselves locked up—and what we can all learn about hope, change, and the possibility of second chances.

December 28, 2025 . Cole Williams

December 04, 2025 . Cole Williams

Welcome back to "What I Know Now," a podcast by The Delta Project where real stories spark real change. In this episode, host Cole Williams sits down with guests Marshall Mansfield, Nick Williams, and Jordan Lyle to pull back the curtain on life inside Michigan's juvenile justice system.As young men who've experienced detention firsthand, our guests speak candidly about what it's like to walk into a facility, the impact of simple kindness from staff, and the lifelong effects of being treated as less than human. They share how trauma, loss, and labels can follow youth long after release—and what true support and mentorship look like for someone coming home and trying to break old cycles.If you've ever wondered what it really means to have hope in tough circumstances, what is lost in those years behind the wall, and how crucial youth voices are in shaping a better system, this episode delivers honest answers. Whether you're a professional working in juvenile justice or a young person trying to find your path, there's something here for everyone.Listen in for reflections, advice, and powerful reminders that it's never too late to change your mindset or your future.

November 20, 2025 . Cole Williams

November 6, 2025 . Cole Williams

In this inspiring episode of What I Know Now, Cole Williams sits down with Christopher Lovelady, Executive Director of All Good Sports, to unpack the power of mentorship, the importance of building brotherhood, and the deeper meaning of showing up for young people in our communities.Christopher shares his personal journey as a father, husband, and community leader, highlighting how sports and mentorship helped shape his path. He opens up about the challenges of engaging young men—especially those impacted by the juvenile detention system—and explains why consistency, accountability, and modeling positive manhood are at the heart of his mission.Through thought-provoking conversation, the episode explores the impact of social fathers, the healing potential of community-based sports programs, and the transformative value of affirmation and self-knowledge. Listeners will hear compelling stories about second chances, fostering belonging, confronting father absence, and the struggle for forgiveness and personal growth.Packed with real-life insights, practical advice for nonprofits, and a spotlight on the need for violence prevention and re-entry programs, this episode is essential listening for anyone invested in equity, justice, youth empowerment, and building stronger communities—whether you're a parent, mentor, educator, or advocate.Key topics:The role of mentorship & sports in youth developmentCreating welcoming spaces for at-risk youthBuilding brotherhood and trust among young menThe importance of accountability and consistencyReflections on fatherhood, loss, and forgivenessAdvice for scaling community-led nonprofitsInvesting in violence prevention and re-entry programsWhether you're seeking hope, inspiration, or actionable ways to make a difference, this episode will leave you motivated to step in and support the next generation. Tune in—and discover what Christopher Lovelady and The Delta Project team know now about changing lives and building lasting legacies.

October 23, 2025 . Cole Williams

October 9, 2025 . Cole Williams

Welcome to "What I Know Now," a podcast by The Delta Project, where we dive deep into life inside the juvenile justice system and what it takes to turn things around truly. In this powerful episode, guest host Nick Williams and co-host Cole Williams sit down with guest Jimmy Horsley for an honest, heartfelt conversation about redemption, fatherhood, and the transformative power of mentorship.Jimmy shares his journey from childhood in Mississippi to navigating the streets, facing repeated incarceration, and ultimately rediscovering himself as a father and mentor. Through his candid insights, you'll hear how the pain of separation from his daughters and the lessons learned in fatherhood programs shaped the man he is today. Meanwhile, Nick opens up about his own time in juvenile detention, the challenges of breaking free from a destructive mindset, and the importance of finding something to believe in.Together, Jimmy and Nick reveal the impact of connection behind the walls—how vulnerability, self-reflection, and genuine support can plant seeds of hope, even in places where it feels like nothing grows. Whether you're a parent, a mentor, or someone seeking to understand the real stories behind the headlines, this episode reminds us that everyone is worthy of change, and that time—even measured behind bars—can be used to transform your life.Listen in for raw stories, personal breakthroughs, and the lessons these men wish they'd known sooner—in the hope that what they know now will spark change for the future.

September, 18 . Cole Williams

Welcome back to What I Know Now, the podcast by The Delta Project where we dive deep into the realities of life inside—and after—the juvenile justice system. In this episode, hosts Bilal and Cole Williams sit down with Gayle Harvey: advocate, entrepreneur, Vice President of the Greater Grand Rapids NAACP, and founder of the Harvey Lynn Group.Gayle shares her journey growing up in West Michigan and how her passion for community, justice, and healing took root. She opens up about the importance of building trust between communities and public safety, the complexities of generational trauma, and the need for honest conversations to move forward. Gayle also discusses her hands-on work in community-informed police training, youth engagement, and why “facing the hurt” is critical for healing and long-lasting change.Whether you're stepping into grassroots advocacy for the first time, looking for inspiration to mend divides, or just want to hear powerful stories about resilience and rebuilding community homes, this episode offers deeply personal and actionable wisdom. Join us for an honest, heartfelt conversation about trust, healing, and what it takes to create safer, more connected communities for the next generation.

September 4, 2025 . Cole Williams

In this powerful episode of "What I Know Now," hosted by Bilal and Cole Williams, we hear from Tiesha Hogue, a mother whose life was transformed when her son became incarcerated. Tiesha shares her raw, honest journey navigating the Michigan Department of Corrections, the pain of seeing her child in chains, and going 18 months without a hug. She shatters common stereotypes about families of incarcerated youth, reminding listeners that justice system involvement can happen in any family and any neighborhood.Tiesha discusses founding FOIL (Families of Incarcerated Loved Ones), a support network for mothers and families affected by incarceration, and how community, mental health, and open conversation are crucial for healing. The episode explores the profound ripple effects of incarceration—not just on the individuals inside, but the parents, siblings, and extended family who are left grieving, coping, and searching for support.Listeners will learn about the real emotional toll of the justice system, the importance of unconditional love, and the challenges families face—from stigma and isolation to the practical logistics of supporting loved ones inside. The hosts and Tiesha examine how trauma, COVID, societal judgment, and lack of community resources all play a role in these stories, and highlight the need for deeper compassion and systemic change.Whether your family has been directly impacted or not, this episode invites you to rethink what you know about incarceration, resilience, and the power of a mother's love. Tune in for heartfelt stories, hard truths, and a call to break the silence around families facing the justice system.

Welcome to "What I Know Now," the podcast by The Delta Project, where we dive deep into the realities of the juvenile justice system and explore the journeys of those who have found their way through it. In this powerful episode, host Bilal and co-host Cole Williams sit down with Eric Freeman—an entrepreneur, community advocate, and father in Grand Rapids—to discuss turning pain into purpose, breaking cycles, and the power of mentorship.Eric shares candid reflections on his upbringing, spanning from growing up with material comfort but emotional absence, to navigating a challenging family dynamic as the child of an interracial relationship. He recounts his early encounters with loneliness, the crucial influence of extended family, and how sports shaped his sense of integrity and leadership.As the conversation unfolds, Eric opens up about his time in prison at just 19, what it taught him about survival, and the pivotal role that elders and mentors played in his journey. He explains how barriers to employment following incarceration led him to entrepreneurship—and how that "forced path" sparked his mission: building both positive social impact and wealth creation for underserved communities through his business, Mindset Meals.The hosts and Eric delve into food deserts, poverty, generational cycles, and what true manhood and fatherhood look like—and how showing up, consistently and with love, changes lives. You'll also hear from Bilal and Cole about their own experiences within the system, and the vision behind The Delta Project: to create a community where elders, mentors, and lived experience guide the next generation toward hope, healing, and real opportunity.This episode is a raw, uplifting conversation about resilience, the healing power of relationships, and what it means to break cycles and build a better future—not just for ourselves, but for our whole village.

July 6th, 2025 . Cole Williams

Welcome back to “What I Know Now,” a podcast by The Delta Project dedicated to honest, raw conversations about life inside—and beyond—the juvenile justice system. In today's episode, co-hosts Bilal and Cole Williams are joined by Wardell Frazier Jr., a decorated community leader, nonprofit founder, and executive director of The Diatribe. Wardell shares his powerful journey from growing up in Grand Rapids, through decades of hands-on nonprofit work, to building impactful programs for youth. Together, they dig into the power of authentic servant leadership, the healing and transformative force of arts, and how uplifting youth voices can change lives—and even reshape communities. Plus, Wardell opens up about his personal story, the influence of his father, and the legacy he hopes to leave for his own children. Tune in for an inspiring conversation rooted in love, resilience, and the unshakeable belief that young people deserve to be heard.

April 24, 2025 . Cole Williams

Welcome back to "What I Know Now," the podcast from The Delta Project where we dive deep into the realities of the juvenile justice system and the journeys of those working to change it. In this episode, hosts Cole Williams and Bilal sit down with Ayda Rezaian-Nojani, a passionate public defender, immigrant, and fierce advocate for justice. Ayda shares her story of migrating from Iran to Canada and then to the U.S., and how her unique background shaped her career in law.From recounting moments that sparked her interest in becoming a lawyer to discussing what's missing in legal advocacy—listening, client involvement, and clear communication—Ayda unpacks the challenges of public defense, wrongful convictions, and what it truly means to fight for youth caught in the system. Together, Cole, Bilal, and Ayda break down issues of shame, labels, and the power of anger channeled for good. They're here to inspire hope, highlight community needs, and remind us all that real change happens when the right people are at the table—and when voices are truly heard.Tune in for a candid, insightful conversation about justice, empathy, and the lifelong journey of making a difference.

April 03, 2025 . Cole Williams

In this Medical Spa Show speakers series, we hear from Sara Cole, AGACNP-BC, CANS, Siren Medical Spa; Chakika Williams, DNP-L, MBA/HCM, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, FPA, SkyRose Rejuvenation Clinic & Spa; Alexander Rivkin, MD, Westside Aesthetics; Alyssa Rapp, Empower Aesthetics; Georgia Cirese, RN, CANS, CLT, Gorgeous Aesthetic Bar; Jenna Hilton, PA-C, Vibrant Skin Bar. They share their biggest wins, lessons learned, and must-know insights for conference attendees. Don't miss their sessions at Medical Spa Show 2025, from April 10 - 13, 2025!   Sara Cole, AGACNP-BC, CANS Saturday, April 12: 10:10 - 10:35 a.m. | The Psychology Behind Your Best Consultation Sunday, April 13: 9 - 10:30 a.m. | When Is It Right to Say “No” Sunday, April 13: 11:15 - 11:45 a.m. | Addressing Lower Face Laxity Chakika Williams, DNP-L, MBA/HCM, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, FPA Saturday, April 12: 10:35 - 11 a.m. | Diversity in Aesthetics: All Faces Are Not Created Equal Alexander Rivkin, MD Friday, April 11: 3:50 - 4:15 p.m. | Nonsurgical Rhinoplasty: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly Alyssa Rapp Friday, April 11: 1:05 - 1:30 p.m. | Leadership and Life Hacks: Insights from a Mom, Wife, Entrepreneur and Executive Georgia Cirese, RN, CANS, CLT Friday, April 11: 3:50 - 4:15 p.m. | Sell It Like a Scholar: Leveraging Knowledge as a Strategic Sales Tool Jenna Hilton, PA-C Saturday, April 12: 3:50 - 4:50 p.m. | Panel: The Worst I Ever Had: Complications and How to Overcome Them --- Music By Ghost Score

March 13, 2025 . Cole Williams

February 16th, 2025 . Cole Williams

In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, Dave Shotwell and guest co-host Cole Williams take a deep dive into financial crises—focusing on the Great Recession of 2007–2009. They explore its impact on financial planning, investor psychology, and how those experiences shape decisions even today. https://youtu.be/iw3NV9gkARg What You'll Learn: How the Great Recession shaped financial attitudes across generations The emotional and psychological effects of financial downturns Lessons from history: Comparing 2008 to the Great Depression and other crises How financial advisors help clients navigate uncertainty and market volatility Why market timing is nearly impossible and long-term strategies win The role of behavioral finance in decision-making during downturns How financial resilience and adaptability can shape retirement planning Key Takeaways:

This Thanksgiving-themed episode dives into the powerful role gratitude plays in retirement planning. Hosts Nick Nauta and Cole Williams discuss everything from practicing gratitude in financial planning to historical perspectives on retirement. Plus, hear their personal stories of thankfulness and why focusing on the positives can shape a healthier, more intentional retirement. https://youtu.be/EVtiTnnkNtQ Key Topics Covered: The Power of Gratitude: Research-backed benefits of gratitude practices, include improved well-being, sleep, lower cortisol levels, and reduced envy and resentment. How gratitude ties into mental health and financial stress, which affects 72% of Americans according to the APA. Applying Gratitude to Retirement Planning: Noticing positives in your retirement savings, such as investment gains and financial milestones achieved. Acknowledging the privilege of planning for retirement, a concept that didn't widely exist 100 years ago. Shifting Focus to What Really Matters: Tailoring plans to reflect personal values and priorities rather than comparing your retirement lifestyle to others. Reducing the tendency to compare yourself to others—what you want may not align with someone else's lifestyle, and social media often misrepresents reality. Living in the Present: Using gratitude as a tool to encourage “being in the moment” rather than worrying excessively about future market volatility or hypothetical risks. Enjoying the process of retirement planning as a reflection of your biggest life priorities. Personal Stories of Gratitude: Hosts share what they're thankful for this year, including good health, healing injuries, and family. The reminder that even small things—like returning to a beloved activity like snowboarding—can foster gratitude. Quotes from the Episode: “Gratitude doesn't just change your perspective—it changes your financial health. It helps you focus on what really matters rather than obsessing over what could go wrong.” “Retirement planning is, at its core, not just about dollars and cents—it's about figuring out what YOU value and designing your future around that.” “We live in a time and place where you can save enough to take the last 30 years of your life off from work. That's a privilege almost unheard of in history.” Studies Mentioned: A 2003 study from Psychological Science shows gratitude improves well-being and sleep quality, and reduces negative emotions like envy. A 2009 study showing gratitude reduces cortisol levels, helping with stress and anxiety. Takeaways & Action Items: Start incorporating a gratitude practice into your retirement planning. Focus on the positives in your financial achievements and avoid falling into the comparison trap. Be thankful for every small milestone in your financial plan and design it around what genuinely matters to you. Speak to a financial planner for guidance in aligning your goals with your values while practicing gratitude. Call to Action: Have gratitude—or questions—about your retirement plan? Reach out to us today to learn how we can make your retirement planning process more rewarding.

November 21, 2024 . Cole Williams

In this episode, we explore the potential impact of recent political developments on retirement planning and market trends over the next four years. With Dave on vacation, Cole Williams, our associate advisor, steps in to discuss the implications of the presidential election and the upcoming sunset of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. We also touch on tariffs and their potential economic ramifications. https://youtu.be/GGUpKS18eOs Key Topics Covered Impact of the Presidential Election The role of the election in determining tax policies. Analysis of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, set to sunset in 2026. Examination of political gridlock and its implications for tax legislation. The SALT Cap and Tax Deductions Explanation of the $10,000 SALT cap and its effects on taxpayers. Discussion of the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) and its relevance. The implications of the higher standard deduction introduced in 2017. Market Reactions and Economic Consequences Positive market response following the election results. Discussion on corporate tax rates and the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction for small businesses. Conclusion We encourage our listeners to contact us if they wish to explore the political aspects discussed further. If you have any questions about your retirement planning or investments, please contact Shotwell Rutter Baer. Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice. Subscribe and follow us to stay informed about changes and updates regarding tax legislation and market trends to better plan your financial future. About Shotwell Rutter Baer Shotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period. Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future. Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

November 7, 2024 . Cole Williams

October 24, 2024 . Cole Williams

October 3, 2024 . Cole Williams

Cole Williams . September 5, 2024

August 4, 2024 . Cole Williams

His LinkedIn profile reads "I keep peoples fingers on their hands."  When it comes to niching down, Cole Williams has carved his out expertly. As a Risk Advisor with Insurance Associates, Inc., Cole focuses his agency on meat and food processors in Nebraska. He understands how to build a target market, how to become an expert in that niche, and how to grow while operating in that niche.  Listen in to learn how you can carve out an expertise and build a network within it to ultimately scale your agency. Enjoy the episode! Episode Links: Ellerbrock-Norris: https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com Ellerbrock-Norris Wealth Strategies: https://www.ellerbrock-norris-ws.com Insurance Associates: https://insuranceassociates.biz LAUNCH: https://getlaunch.io/ Elliot Bassett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliot-bassett-aip-cpcu-84499515 Ryan Brott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-brott-cepa%C2%AE-77a278a Cole Williams: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cole-williams-42b91423 This episode is sponsored by LAUNCH. In the world of insurance, independent agencies fight to survive. Brokers are forced to compete by blocking markets and bid for the lowest price. Worse yet, the industry is fragmented. Agencies find it difficult to collaborate across division on the same client. Millions of dollars in potential revenue are left on the table. And agency owners lie awake at night wondering how to scale. THAT'S WHERE LAUNCH COMES IN. Access the full-revenue potential in your existing book of business. See opportunities other agencies can't. Offer more value. Gain a competitive advantage in a commoditized market. Visit https://getlaunch.io/ to learn more.

His LinkedIn profile reads "I keep peoples fingers on their hands." When it comes to niching down, Cole Williams has carved his out expertly. As a Risk Advisor with Insurance Associates, Inc., Cole focuses his agency on meat and food processors in Nebraska. He understands how to build a target market, how to become an expert in that niche, and how to grow while operating in that niche. Listen in to learn how you can carve out an expertise and build a network within it to ultimately scale your agency.Enjoy the episode!Episode Links:Ellerbrock-Norris: https://www.ellerbrock-norris.comEllerbrock-Norris Wealth Strategies: https://www.ellerbrock-norris-ws.comInsurance Associates: https://insuranceassociates.bizLAUNCH: https://getlaunch.io/Elliot Bassett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliot-bassett-aip-cpcu-84499515Ryan Brott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-brott-cepa%C2%AE-77a278aCole Williams: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cole-williams-42b91423This episode is sponsored by LAUNCH.In the world of insurance, independent agencies fight to survive. Brokers are forced to compete by blocking markets and bid for the lowest price. Worse yet, the industry is fragmented.Agencies find it difficult to collaborate across division on the same client. Millions of dollars in potential revenue are left on the table. And agency owners lie awake at night wondering how to scale.THAT'S WHERE LAUNCH COMES IN.Access the full-revenue potential in your existing book of business. See opportunities other agencies can't. Offer more value. Gain a competitive advantage in a commoditized market.Visit https://getlaunch.io/ to learn more.