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Chelsea Baugh returns for her third conversation on Case Studies, this time as a recent BYU MBA graduate, mother of five, and the one running the Baugh Family Foundation and family office. In this episode of Case Studies, Chelsea traces the winding path that led her back to school at forty, from a spiritual nudge to write scripture study posts, to a rejected application, to an unexpected pivot into business.She talks candidly about imposter syndrome, rewriting her own story, and why motherhood may be the best leadership training there is. The conversation turns to marriage, twenty-one years of it, and the quiet discipline of staying close through disruption.Chelsea also shares the vision behind Sandlot Impact, the new philanthropic arm she's building inside Sandlot Partners. A conversation about growth, identity, and the courage to jump into the unknown.[00:00] Three Years of Case Studies[00:42] Coming Out of the MBA Fog[03:24] The Spiritual Nudge Toward Growth[06:20] Nicole's Nudge and a Dissertation[08:32] Rejected, Then a New Challenge[11:31] Calling Chad, Chasing Near Eastern Studies[13:33] Pivoting to the MBA[15:22] Rewriting Her Own Story[19:06] BYU, Mike Drake, and a Changed Brain[22:20] Confidence Two Years Later[24:11] Turning 41 and the Puzzle Coming Together[28:36] Twenty-One Years of Marriage[41:08] Twenty-One Years of Motherhood[45:26] Building Sandlot Impact[51:17] The iHub Fellowship and Corbin's GiftThe information in this communication is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or a solicitation to invest in any fund or security. This communication is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon as, tax, legal, investment, accounting, or financial advice. Recipients should consult their own tax, legal, accounting, and other professional advisors regarding any potential investment in a fund or security.This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any interest in a pooled investment vehicle sponsored by Sandlot Partners, LLC (“Sandlot”) or any of its affiliates (“Fund”). Any such offer or solicitation will be made only by means of each respective Fund's confidential Private Placement Memorandum (“PPM”), Limited Partnership Agreement, Subscription Documents, and other operative documents (collectively, the “Offering Documents”), which contain material information not included herein and which supersede this communication in its entirety.Past performance is not indicative of future results. There can be no assurance that any Fund will achieve comparable results or implement its strategy successfully. All investing involves risk, including the loss of principal. Each Fund typically invests in illiquid projects that cannot be quickly sold or converted to cash. As a result, investors may not be able to access their capital when desired. Additional risks associated with an investment in a Fund, as well as important information about Sandlot Partners and its personnel, are described in detail in the Offering Documents and in Sandlot Partners' Form ADV, which is publicly available on the SEC's Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov. Both the Offering Documents and Form ADV should be read carefully and should serve as the sole basis for any decision to invest in each respective Fund.Certain statements, testimonials, or endorsements included in this communication may have been provided by clients or non-clients of Sandlot. The individuals or entities providing such statements did not receive direct cash compensation from Sandlot in connection with the statements or endorsements.In certain circumstances, Sandlot or its affiliates may have provided indirect economic benefits or other consideration to such persons or entities, including through business relationships, investments, portfolio company relationships, or other arrangements. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, Casey sits down with Todd Miller, longtime BYU Golf coach, mentor, and son of golf legend Johnny Miller, for a conversation about leadership, faith, mentorship, and the principles that shape championship culture.Todd shares the lessons passed down through generations of his family, the mindset that has guided his life and career, and why developing people will always matter more than developing players. From growing up alongside one of golf's greatest champions to coaching All-Americans and PGA Tour professionals, Todd reflects on the importance of character, conviction, and creating an environment where people can reach their full potential.Together, Casey and Todd explore what separates great competitors from great leaders, the power of authentic mentorship, and why success is ultimately measured by the lives you influence, not the trophies you collect.[00:00] No success can compensate for failure at home[00:25] Welcome back to Case Studies[00:59] Coming to golf later in life[02:55] Growing up a Miller in golf's shadow[04:33] Time with Dad after the tour[06:00] Grandpa Miller building champions[08:46] Four brothers, four All-Americans[16:26] BYU golf as a family forever[20:30] Faith in the Miller household[34:23] Choosing a mission over golf[44:47] Building a coaching career on conviction[57:03] Twenty years building BYU golf[1:07:00] Caddying Carson's eagle at the US Am[1:12:56] The future of BYU golfThe information in this communication is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or a solicitation to invest in any fund or security. This communication is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon as, tax, legal, investment, accounting, or financial advice. Recipients should consult their own tax, legal, accounting, and other professional advisors regarding any potential investment in a fund or security.This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any interest in a pooled investment vehicle sponsored by Sandlot Partners, LLC (“Sandlot”) or any of its affiliates (“Fund”). Any such offer or solicitation will be made only by means of each respective Fund's confidential Private Placement Memorandum (“PPM”), Limited Partnership Agreement, Subscription Documents, and other operative documents (collectively, the “Offering Documents”), which contain material information not included herein and which supersede this communication in its entirety.Past performance is not indicative of future results. There can be no assurance that any Fund will achieve comparable results or implement its strategy successfully. All investing involves risk, including the loss of principal. Each Fund typically invests in illiquid projects that cannot be quickly sold or converted to cash. As a result, investors may not be able to access their capital when desired. Additional risks associated with an investment in a Fund, as well as important information about Sandlot Partners and its personnel, are described in detail in the Offering Documents and in Sandlot Partners' Form ADV, which is publicly available on the SEC's Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov. Both the Offering Documents and Form ADV should be read carefully and should serve as the sole basis for any decision to invest in each respective Fund.Certain statements, testimonials, or endorsements included in this communication may have been provided by clients or non-clients of Sandlot. The individuals or entities providing such statements did not receive direct cash compensation from Sandlot in connection with the statements or endorsements.In certain circumstances, Sandlot or its affiliates may have provided indirect economic benefits or other consideration to such persons or entities, including through business relationships, investments, portfolio company relationships, or other arrangements. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Left Brain Wealth Management Founder & CIO Noland Langford and Director of Research Brian Dress sit down for their Q2 2026 Investment Committee debrief. On the surface it was a strong quarter, the S&P 500 was up 14.9%, but the conversation goes well beyond the scoreboard. Noland and Brian unpack where capital actually flowed, why the AI buildout is spreading past the chipmakers, and a form of hidden concentration that may be sitting inside a portfolio that looks perfectly diversified. Topics covered: • The Q2 scoreboard and the story it doesn't tell • Where money actually flowed this quarter, and what got left behind • Is AI in a bubble? A straight answer • The AI budget tradeoff: a CEO/CIO breakdown of hardware versus software spend • Beyond the chipmakers: where the next AI winners may emerge • Hidden concentration: how you can own hundreds of stocks in an index fund and still be under-diversified • Gold, silver, and Bitcoin: the safe haven stress test • Oil and the Iran question • SpaceX and the IPO pipeline • Research spotlight: Oracle • What the committee is watching heading into Q3 Resources mentioned: • Watch the full video: Left Brain Wealth Management YouTube channel • Already a Left Brain client? Bring your outside accounts, old 401(k)s, and company stock into the conversation. • Not yet a client? Book a free 30-minute call: https://tinyurl.com/Book30MinutesWithLeftBrain Left Brain Wealth Management, Naperville, IL, leftbrainwm.com, 630-517-9300 Chapter markers: 0:00 Cold Open: The AI Buildout 0:50 Welcome to the Left Brain Investment Committee 1:24 The Quarter That Was (Q2 Scoreboard) 4:54 Where Money Flowed in Q2 8:56 Is AI a Bubble? 10:58 The AI Budget Tradeoff (Hardware vs. Software Spend) 14:27 Beyond the Chipmakers: The Next AI Winners 20:31 Hidden Concentration: What Your Index Fund Isn't Telling You 27:44 Gold, Silver & Bitcoin: The Safe Haven Stress — Full Disclosure No Client or potential client should assume that any information presented or made available on or through this video should be construed as personalized financial planning or investment advice. Personalized financial planning and investment advice can only be rendered after engagement of the firm for services, execution of the required documentation, and receipt of required disclosures. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. Additional information about Left Brain is available in its current disclosure documents, Form ADV, Form ADV Part 2A Brochure, and Client Relationship Summary (Form CRS), which are available online via the SEC's Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) database at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/170348.

Brian Murphy spent thirty years building Portfolio Advisors from a bare office with no furniture into a firm that raised roughly $90 billion and delivered an 18.4% compounded return to its clients. In this episode of Case Studies, Brian sits down with Casey to trace that arc, from selling bootleg fireworks as a kid to restructuring a broken $395 million portfolio at twenty-nine years old, and ultimately building one of the most creative fund structures in private equity.The conversation moves well beyond deal mechanics. Brian unpacks the mindset behind solving problems no one else would touch, the discipline of building partnerships instead of hierarchies, and why he and his wife, Louise, chose to fund college educations for the children of their employees rather than keep more for themselves.[00:00] Introducing Brian Murphy[02:15] Childhood hustles and mopeds[05:35] Born with the entrepreneurial bug[13:26] Painting crews and street credit[20:36] Landing at Columbia Business School[25:04] Restructuring, Blackstone, and Gibson Greetings[33:21] Founding Portfolio Advisors[43:09] Ninety billion and an 18.4% return[45:33] Sharing equity with employees[52:00] The scholarship gift to staff[1:13:31] The Murphy family bank[1:29:56] Lessons from every market crashThe information in this communication is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or a solicitation to invest in any fund or security. This communication is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon as, tax, legal, investment, accounting, or financial advice. Recipients should consult their own tax, legal, accounting, and other professional advisors regarding any potential investment in a fund or security.This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any interest in a pooled investment vehicle sponsored by Sandlot Partners, LLC (“Sandlot”) or any of its affiliates (“Fund”). Any such offer or solicitation will be made only by means of each respective Fund's confidential Private Placement Memorandum (“PPM”), Limited Partnership Agreement, Subscription Documents, and other operative documents (collectively, the “Offering Documents”), which contain material information not included herein and which supersede this communication in its entirety.Past performance is not indicative of future results. There can be no assurance that any Fund will achieve comparable results or implement its strategy successfully. All investing involves risk, including the loss of principal. Each Fund typically invests in illiquid projects that cannot be quickly sold or converted to cash. As a result, investors may not be able to access their capital when desired. Additional risks associated with an investment in a Fund, as well as important information about Sandlot Partners and its personnel, are described in detail in the Offering Documents and in Sandlot Partners' Form ADV, which is publicly available on the SEC's Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov. Both the Offering Documents and Form ADV should be read carefully and should serve as the sole basis for any decision to invest in each respective Fund.Certain statements, testimonials, or endorsements included in this communication may have been provided by clients or non-clients of Sandlot. The individuals or entities providing such statements did not receive direct cash compensation from Sandlot in connection with the statements or endorsements.In certain circumstances, Sandlot or its affiliates may have provided indirect economic benefits or other consideration to such persons or entities, including through business relationships, investments, portfolio company relationships, or other arrangements. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Coming up — should conservative investors take on more risk? If you own rental properties, do you actually need to pay off the mortgages? We've got a couple with big raises who've maxed out their retirement options and need to know what's next, plus pension vs. lump sum rollover, and the smartest financial moves you can make for a brand new grandchild.   Important Links: Website: https://www.cpweldegroup.com/ Call: 610-388-7705   Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors ("PCA") an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Ohio. CP Welde Group and PCA are separate, non-affiliated entities. PCA does not provide tax or legal advice. Insurance and tax services offered through CP Welde Group are not affiliated with PCA. Information received from this podcast should not be viewed as individual investment advice. Product discussions and illustrations are hypothetical in nature and will vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, age, health, product, insurance carrier and product design. You should consult the insurance carrier website and policy for detailed information. Content may have been created by a Third Party and was not written or created by a PCA affiliated advisor and does not represent the views and opinions of PCA or its subsidiaries.  For information pertaining to the registration status of PCA, please contact the firm or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure web site (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about PCA, including fees and services, send for our disclosure statement as set forth on Form ADV from PCA using the contact information herein. Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you invest or send money.

In this episode of Case Studies, Casey sits down with Jeanette Bennett – award-winning journalist, founder of Utah Valley Magazine, and now a rising leader in commercial real estate; for a compelling conversation about reinvention, resilience, and the power of quiet ambition.Jeanette opens up about her early days growing up in Idaho, her fierce internal drive that led her to become valedictorian, and how motherhood sparked the entrepreneurial fire that would define her career. With no outside funding, she sold her home to launch her first magazine; a move that would go on to shape the voice of Utah's business community for over two decades.They explore the realities of building a company from scratch, navigating gender dynamics in leadership, and what it looks like to gracefully transition into a new chapter of influence and impact. Through it all, Jeanette reflects on listening as a superpower, the art of celebrating others, and the quiet strength it takes to lead with both confidence and humility.This conversation is packed with insight for anyone building a business, a life, or both.The information in this communication is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or a solicitation to invest in any fund or security. This communication is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon as, tax, legal, investment, accounting, or financial advice. Recipients should consult their own tax, legal, accounting, and other professional advisors regarding any potential investment in a fund or security.This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any interest in a pooled investment vehicle sponsored by Sandlot Partners, LLC (“Sandlot”) or any of its affiliates (“Fund”). Any such offer or solicitation will be made only by means of each respective Fund's confidential Private Placement Memorandum (“PPM”), Limited Partnership Agreement, Subscription Documents, and other operative documents (collectively, the “Offering Documents”), which contain material information not included herein and which supersede this communication in its entirety.Past performance is not indicative of future results. There can be no assurance that any Fund will achieve comparable results or implement its strategy successfully. All investing involves risk, including the loss of principal. Each Fund typically invests in illiquid projects that cannot be quickly sold or converted to cash. As a result, investors may not be able to access their capital when desired. Additional risks associated with an investment in a Fund, as well as important information about Sandlot Partners and its personnel, are described in detail in the Offering Documents and in Sandlot Partners' Form ADV, which is publicly available on the SEC's Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov. Both the Offering Documents and Form ADV should be read carefully and should serve as the sole basis for any decision to invest in each respective Fund.Certain statements, testimonials, or endorsements included in this communication may have been provided by clients or non-clients of Sandlot. The individuals or entities providing such statements did not receive direct cash compensation from Sandlot in connection with the statements or endorsements.In certain circumstances, Sandlot or its affiliates may have provided indirect economic benefits or other consideration to such persons or entities, including through business relationships, investments, portfolio company relationships, or other arrangements. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Risk is unavoidable — the only question is whether the risk you're taking actually makes sense for where you are in life. Today we're looking at three stages of the financial journey, and at each one we've got three types of people with three very different approaches.   Important Links: Website: https://www.cpweldegroup.com/ Call: 610-388-7705   Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors ("PCA") an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Ohio. CP Welde Group and PCA are separate, non-affiliated entities. PCA does not provide tax or legal advice. Insurance and tax services offered through CP Welde Group are not affiliated with PCA. Information received from this podcast should not be viewed as individual investment advice. Product discussions and illustrations are hypothetical in nature and will vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, age, health, product, insurance carrier and product design. You should consult the insurance carrier website and policy for detailed information. Content may have been created by a Third Party and was not written or created by a PCA affiliated advisor and does not represent the views and opinions of PCA or its subsidiaries.  For information pertaining to the registration status of PCA, please contact the firm or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure web site (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about PCA, including fees and services, send for our disclosure statement as set forth on Form ADV from PCA using the contact information herein. Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you invest or send money.

In this episode of Case Studies, Casey welcomes back David Butler for the first of a four-part series exploring faith ahead of a group pilgrimage to Jerusalem. David, who leads pilgrimage experiences to the Holy Land, joins Casey to unpack what it means to know God more deeply, starting with creation itself.The conversation moves from a desert night in the Sahara staring through a telescope at two billion solar systems, to the story of Job being pointed toward the stars, to why scripture's purpose isn't a history lesson but a portrait of God's character. David and Casey talk about the strange comfort of feeling small against something vast, why the wealthy and powerful become less accessible while God becomes more so, and how a friend's grief after unexpected loss became an unexpected testimony of connection beyond death.They also get personal, about the pull toward something bigger than daily life, the discipline of belief that lets you actually move forward instead of staying stuck in fear, and what it's like walking through the literal places where these ancient stories happened. David closes by sharing how listeners can put together their own custom trip to experience it firsthand.The information in this communication is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or a solicitation to invest in any fund or security. This communication is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon as, tax, legal, investment, accounting, or financial advice. Recipients should consult their own tax, legal, accounting, and other professional advisors regarding any potential investment in a fund or security.This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any interest in a pooled investment vehicle sponsored by Sandlot Partners, LLC (“Sandlot”) or any of its affiliates (“Fund”). Any such offer or solicitation will be made only by means of each respective Fund's confidential Private Placement Memorandum (“PPM”), Limited Partnership Agreement, Subscription Documents, and other operative documents (collectively, the “Offering Documents”), which contain material information not included herein and which supersede this communication in its entirety.Past performance is not indicative of future results. There can be no assurance that any Fund will achieve comparable results or implement its strategy successfully. All investing involves risk, including the loss of principal. Each Fund typically invests in illiquid projects that cannot be quickly sold or converted to cash. As a result, investors may not be able to access their capital when desired. Additional risks associated with an investment in a Fund, as well as important information about Sandlot Partners and its personnel, are described in detail in the Offering Documents and in Sandlot Partners' Form ADV, which is publicly available on the SEC's Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov. Both the Offering Documents and Form ADV should be read carefully and should serve as the sole basis for any decision to invest in each respective Fund.Certain statements, testimonials, or endorsements included in this communication may have been provided by clients or non-clients of Sandlot. The individuals or entities providing such statements did not receive direct cash compensation from Sandlot in connection with the statements or endorsements.In certain circumstances, Sandlot or its affiliates may have provided indirect economic benefits or other consideration to such persons or entities, including through business relationships, investments, portfolio company relationships, or other arrangements. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brian Dress and Noland Langford walk through everything executives need to know about their equity comp packages, from the basics of RSUs, stock options, and ESPP, to vest day tax implications, the job change trap, and what building a real equity compensation plan actually looks like. In this episode: • The three types of equity comp and what makes each different • What vest day actually means (and why it matters more than a calendar reminder) • The tax withholding gap and other hidden costs • Expensive mistakes executives make around vesting • The job change trap: options expiration windows and negotiating equity you're leaving behind • Underwater options: how to think about them • What a real equity comp plan looks like, and how to start building one Chapters: 00:00 Cold Open 00:56 Introductions 01:40 The Three Types of Equity Comp 03:53 What Actually Happens on Vest Day 06:00 Expensive Mistakes Around Vesting 09:06 Hidden Costs: The Withholding Gap and Concentrated Stock 13:49 Stock Options: What Executives Need to Know 16:11 The Job Change Trap 17:30 Underwater Options 18:53 What a Real Equity Comp Plan Looks Like 22:09 Closing Thoughts Links mentioned: • Book a free 30-minute consultation: https://tinyurl.com/Book30MinutesWithLeftBrain • Free guide, Executive Guide to Managing Company Stock: Download the Executive Guide • Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vWWGAbpPvDU Left Brain Wealth Management is an independent wealth management firm based in Naperville, Illinois, specializing in financial planning for corporate executives. Full Disclosure: No Client or potential client should assume that any information presented or made available on or through this video should be construed as personalized financial planning or investment advice. Personalized financial planning and investment advice can only be rendered after engagement of the firm for services, execution of the required documentation, and receipt of required disclosures. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. Additional information about Left Brain is available in its current disclosure documents, Form ADV, Form ADV Part 2A Brochure, and Client Relationship Summary (Form CRS), which are available online via the SEC's Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) database at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/170348.

A lot of people think working with a financial advisor is just about picking investments. But a great planning experience is much more than that. Today, we're walking through what it actually feels like to work with a firm—from the first conversation to ongoing guidance—so you know what to expect.   Important Links: Website: https://www.cpweldegroup.com/ Call: 610-388-7705   Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors ("PCA") an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Ohio. CP Welde Group and PCA are separate, non-affiliated entities. PCA does not provide tax or legal advice. Insurance and tax services offered through CP Welde Group are not affiliated with PCA. Information received from this podcast should not be viewed as individual investment advice. Product discussions and illustrations are hypothetical in nature and will vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, age, health, product, insurance carrier and product design. You should consult the insurance carrier website and policy for detailed information. Content may have been created by a Third Party and was not written or created by a PCA affiliated advisor and does not represent the views and opinions of PCA or its subsidiaries.  For information pertaining to the registration status of PCA, please contact the firm or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure web site (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about PCA, including fees and services, send for our disclosure statement as set forth on Form ADV from PCA using the contact information herein. Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you invest or send money.

Graduation season is wrapping up… caps, gowns, and yearbooks full of superlatives like “Most Likely to Succeed” or “Most Popular.” So today, we're having a little fun. Imagine you're on the yearbook committee at the School of Financial Planning. Which tools and strategies win each category?   Important Links: Website: https://www.cpweldegroup.com/ Call: 610-388-7705   Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors ("PCA") an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Ohio. CP Welde Group and PCA are separate, non-affiliated entities. PCA does not provide tax or legal advice. Insurance and tax services offered through CP Welde Group are not affiliated with PCA. Information received from this podcast should not be viewed as individual investment advice. Product discussions and illustrations are hypothetical in nature and will vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, age, health, product, insurance carrier and product design. You should consult the insurance carrier website and policy for detailed information. Content may have been created by a Third Party and was not written or created by a PCA affiliated advisor and does not represent the views and opinions of PCA or its subsidiaries.  For information pertaining to the registration status of PCA, please contact the firm or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure web site (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about PCA, including fees and services, send for our disclosure statement as set forth on Form ADV from PCA using the contact information herein. Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you invest or send money.

In this episode of Fundamentals of Investing, Brian Dress and Noland Langford tackle one of the most common (and most overlooked) financial challenges facing corporate executives: what to do when your company stock becomes a dominant part of your net worth. They cover the full picture of equity exposure (RSUs, stock options, ESPP, deferred comp, and 401(k)), walk through the real math of concentration risk, and offer a practical framework for when and how to start diversifying, including how to think about the tax implications without letting them drive the decision. Topics covered: - Why high concentration is so common among executives (and why it often goes unexamined) - How to stress-test your position before the market does it for you - Long-term capital gains vs. ordinary income: what the rates actually mean for your decision - Dollar-cost averaging out: the simplest path to reducing concentration over time - The lifetime financial model: a framework for making the decision analytically, not emotionally Resources mentioned: [Watch the episode on YouTube here →] https://youtu.be/nT2NpdtIa1Q [Download the free Executive's Guide to Equity Compensation →] https://leftbrainwm.com/theexecutiveguide [Book a free 30-minute review with Brian →] https://tinyurl.com/Book30MinutesWithLeftBrain Full Disclosure No Client or potential client should assume that any information presented or made available on or through this video should be construed as personalized financial planning or investment advice. Personalized financial planning and investment advice can only be rendered after engagement of the firm for services, execution of the required documentation, and receipt of required disclosures. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. Additional information about Left Brain is available in its current disclosure documents, Form ADV, Form ADV Part 2A Brochure, and Client Relationship Summary (Form CRS), which are available online via the SEC's Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) database at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/170348.  

Most folks meet with their financial advisor once a year. That meeting is one of the most valuable hours in your financial life if it's done right. Today we're going to talk honestly about what that meeting looks like when it isn't... and what it looks like when it is.   Important Links: Website: https://www.cpweldegroup.com/ Call: 610-388-7705   Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors ("PCA") an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Ohio. CP Welde Group and PCA are separate, non-affiliated entities. PCA does not provide tax or legal advice. Insurance and tax services offered through CP Welde Group are not affiliated with PCA. Information received from this podcast should not be viewed as individual investment advice. Product discussions and illustrations are hypothetical in nature and will vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, age, health, product, insurance carrier and product design. You should consult the insurance carrier website and policy for detailed information. Content may have been created by a Third Party and was not written or created by a PCA affiliated advisor and does not represent the views and opinions of PCA or its subsidiaries.  For information pertaining to the registration status of PCA, please contact the firm or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure web site (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about PCA, including fees and services, send for our disclosure statement as set forth on Form ADV from PCA using the contact information herein. Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you invest or send money.

Most retirement conversations are about saving enough. Today we're talking about the other side of that. What happens when you've saved, you're there, and you still can't bring yourself to spend it? It's more common than people admit. And it can quietly rob you of the retirement you worked so hard to build.   Important Links: Website: https://www.cpweldegroup.com/ Call: 610-388-7705   Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors ("PCA") an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Ohio. CP Welde Group and PCA are separate, non-affiliated entities. PCA does not provide tax or legal advice. Insurance and tax services offered through CP Welde Group are not affiliated with PCA. Information received from this podcast should not be viewed as individual investment advice. Product discussions and illustrations are hypothetical in nature and will vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, age, health, product, insurance carrier and product design. You should consult the insurance carrier website and policy for detailed information. Content may have been created by a Third Party and was not written or created by a PCA affiliated advisor and does not represent the views and opinions of PCA or its subsidiaries.  For information pertaining to the registration status of PCA, please contact the firm or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure web site (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about PCA, including fees and services, send for our disclosure statement as set forth on Form ADV from PCA using the contact information herein. Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you invest or send money.

If you work at a publicly traded company and receive any form of equity compensation, RSUs, stock options, ESPP, or deferred comp, this episode is for you. Brian Dress and Noland Langford walk through the executive diversification trap: how concentration in employer stock builds gradually, why it is so hard to act on, and what a structured plan to address it actually looks like. Topics covered: • How a $200K salary can represent $6 million or more in future earnings power • Golden handcuffs: what they are and what they cost you • The FOMO psychology that keeps executives stuck on both winners and losers • Why selling everything at once is almost never the right answer • Deferred compensation: the most underused executive benefit • How to think like an investor, not an employee Resources mentioned: Watch the full episode here via YouTube: https://youtu.be/-urw560-Sts  Executive's Guide to Company Stock: https://leftbrainwm.com/theexecutiveguide May 27 Estate Planning Webinar (free, recording available): https://tinyurl.com/May27EstatePlanningWebinar Schedule a no-cost, no-obligation consultation: https://tinyurl.com/Book30MinutesWithLeftBrain Left Brain Wealth Management. Independent, Objective, Unbiased. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal and fluctuation of value.  Past performance has no guarantee of future results. This video is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. The opinions expressed are as of the date noted above and may change as subsequent conditions vary. The information and opinions contained in this video are derived from proprietary and nonproprietary sources deemed by Left Brain Wealth Management, LLC ("Left Brain") to be reliable, are not necessarily all-inclusive and are not guaranteed as to accuracy. As such, no warranty of accuracy or reliability is given and no responsibility arising in any other way for errors and omissions (including responsibility to any person by reason of negligence) is accepted by Left Brain), its principals, employees, agents or affiliates. This video may contain "forward-looking" information that is not purely historical in nature. Such information may include, among other things, projections, and forecasts. There is no guarantee that any forecasts made will materialize. Reliance upon information in this video is at sole discretion of the reader.   Please consult with your Left Brain financial advisor to ensure that any contemplated transaction in any securities aligns with your overall investment goals, objectives and tolerance for risk. In addition, please note that Left Brain, including its principals, employees, agents, affiliates and advisory clients, may have positions in one or more of the securities discussed in this communication or effect transactions contrary to the views expressed in this communication based upon individual or firm circumstances. Any decision to effect transactions in the securities discussed within this communication should be balanced against the potential conflict of interest that Left Brain has by virtue of its investment in one or more of these securities.  Additional information about Left Brain is available in its current disclosure documents, Form ADV, Form ADV Part 2A Brochure, and Client Relationship Summary (Form CRS), which are available online via the SEC's Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) database at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/170348.  Left Brain is neither an attorney nor an accountant, and no portion of this content should be interpreted as legal, accounting or tax advice. Left Brain does not provide investment banking services nor engages in principal or agency cross transactions.

Got money questions? We've got answers. In this episode, we're tackling some of the most common (and often misunderstood) financial decisions: - What to do if you've got too much company stock in your 401(k) - Smart ways to put extra cash to work - How to handle an inherited IRA without costly mistakes - Whether you're missing out by sitting on the sidelines while markets surge - And how to estimate your tax bill in your first year of retirement If any of these are on your mind, this one's for you.   Important Links: Website: https://www.cpweldegroup.com/ Call: 610-388-7705   Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors ("PCA") an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Ohio. CP Welde Group and PCA are separate, non-affiliated entities. PCA does not provide tax or legal advice. Insurance and tax services offered through CP Welde Group are not affiliated with PCA. Information received from this podcast should not be viewed as individual investment advice. Product discussions and illustrations are hypothetical in nature and will vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, age, health, product, insurance carrier and product design. You should consult the insurance carrier website and policy for detailed information. Content may have been created by a Third Party and was not written or created by a PCA affiliated advisor and does not represent the views and opinions of PCA or its subsidiaries.  For information pertaining to the registration status of PCA, please contact the firm or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure web site (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about PCA, including fees and services, send for our disclosure statement as set forth on Form ADV from PCA using the contact information herein. Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you invest or send money.

Quick question before we get started... which Easter candy are you most looking forward to this year? Whatever your answer is, we're going to use it. Because today we're building a financial Easter basket and matching some of your favorite candies to the products and tools that belong in a solid retirement plan.   Important Links: Website: https://www.cpweldegroup.com/ Call: 610-388-7705   Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors ("PCA") an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Ohio. CP Welde Group and PCA are separate, non-affiliated entities. PCA does not provide tax or legal advice. Insurance and tax services offered through CP Welde Group are not affiliated with PCA. Information received from this podcast should not be viewed as individual investment advice. Product discussions and illustrations are hypothetical in nature and will vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, age, health, product, insurance carrier and product design. You should consult the insurance carrier website and policy for detailed information. Content may have been created by a Third Party and was not written or created by a PCA affiliated advisor and does not represent the views and opinions of PCA or its subsidiaries.  For information pertaining to the registration status of PCA, please contact the firm or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure web site (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about PCA, including fees and services, send for our disclosure statement as set forth on Form ADV from PCA using the contact information herein. Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you invest or send money.

Not investment advice. The war is moving markets and while I am not a military expert, I talk to them.Seth G. Jones is president of the Defense and Security Department and Harold Brown Chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. He served in the Office of the Secretary of Defense and U.S. Special Operations Command and has written widely on both Russia and Iran. Said differently, he has expertise I lack, and I thought sharing our conversation would be of interest to you.Given that things are moving quickly, I'm releasing this conversation unedited (yes, there are a few background noises and “umm”s that are normally edited out). I will likely not post later in the week.This document is strictly confidential and is intended for authorized recipients of “A Letter from Paul” (the “Letter”) only. It includes personal opinions that are current as of the date of this Letter and does not represent the official positions of Kate Capital LLC (“Kate Capital”). This letter is presented for discussion purposes only and is not intended as investment advice, an offer, or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any security. Any unauthorized copying, disclosure, or distribution of the material in this presentation is strictly forbidden without the express written consent of Paul Podolsky or Kate Capital LLC.If an investment idea is discussed in the Letter, there is no guarantee that the investment objective will be achieved. Past performance is not indicative of future results, which may vary. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied. Unless otherwise noted, the valuation of the specific investment opportunity contained within this presentation is based upon information and data available as of the date these materials were prepared.An investment with Kate Capital is speculative and involves significant risks, including the potential loss of all or a substantial portion of invested capital, the potential use of leverage, and the lack of liquidity of an investment. Recipients should not assume that securities or any companies identified in this presentation, or otherwise related to the information in this presentation, are, have been or will be, investments held by accounts managed by Kate Capital or that investments in any such securities have been or will be profitable. Please refer to the Private Placement Memorandum, and Kate Capital's Form ADV, available at www.advisorinfo.sec.gov, for important information about an investment with Kate Capital.Any companies identified herein in which Kate Capital is invested do not represent all of the investments made or recommended for any account managed by Kate Capital. Certain information presented herein has been supplied by third parties, including management or agents of the underlying portfolio company. While Kate Capital believes such information to be accurate, it has relied upon such third parties to provide accurate information and has not independently verified such information.The graphs, charts, and other visual aids are provided for informational purposes only. None of these graphs, charts, or visual aids can of themselves be used to make investment decisions. No representation is made that these will assist any person in making investment decisions and no graph, chart or other visual aid can capture all factors and variables required in making such decisions. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulpodolsky.substack.com

For a long time, truly personalized investment advice has been something only the ultra-wealthy could access. If you have tens of millions of dollars, you can hire advisors who don't just sell you products. They build strategies around your entire financial life. But everyone else gets standardized portfolios and is told to keep contributing to their retirement accounts and stay the course. That's starting to change. A new approach to financial advice is emerging, one built around a fee-for-service strategy instead of product sales. Instead of paying someone based on how much money they manage or what investments they sell you, investors can now pay directly for expertise, planning, and financial architecture. That means for the first time, the level of thinking that was mostly reserved for high-net-worth investors is now available to everyday investors who want a more strategic approach to building wealth. In this episode, investment advisor and fractional CEO, COO, and CRO Stefan Astheimer joins me to talk about how this model works, why the traditional advisory system is evolving, and how investors who understand this shift may gain a serious edge.   Things You'll Learn In This Episode  Most financial advice was never designed to be personal For decades, financial advisors were paid based on products sold or assets managed. But if your advisor's incentives shape the advice you get, how personalized can that advice really be? The edge for everyday investors Could separating advice from product sales finally give ordinary investors access to the kind of guidance the wealthy get? Paying off debt or building wealth first Many people assume eliminating debt should always come before investing. But when interest rates, tax advantages, and opportunity costs come into play, how do you decide which move actually builds wealth faster? AI makes great financial advisors more valuable, not less Many people assume AI will replace advisors. But what if technology actually increases the demand for high-level strategic guidance?   Disclaimer This content is for educational purposes only and is not investment advice. No specific recommendations are being made. Please consult a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions.   This webinar is for educational and informational purposes only. Any discussion of strategies reflects general concepts and examples based on the speakers' own experience and perspectives, not personalized investment advice. Forward-looking statements, illustrations, or examples are not guarantees of future results. All investments involve risk, and results may vary. Viewers should consult their own qualified advisor before making any financial decisions. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Additional information about PMC Wealth, LLC is available in its Form ADV, which is available upon request or by visiting www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. The 'Inverse Cramer' ETF referenced in this discussion previously existed but has since been closed. This mention is for illustrative purposes only and is not a recommendation.    Guest Bio Stefan Astheimer is a fractional CEO, COO, and CRO who works with founder-led and regulated businesses to turn growth into something more structured, scalable, and commercially effective. He specializes in revenue expansion, operating strategy, and transaction readiness, helping companies strengthen performance while building long-term enterprise value. Stefan studied applied mathematics at Yale and has deep experience across wealth management, advisory, insurance, and other financial services environments where complexity is high and execution matters. To learn more, visit https://pmcwealthadvisors.com/    About Your Host From pro-snowboarder to money mogul, Chris Naugle has dedicated his life to being America's #1 Money Mentor. With a core belief that success is built not by the resources you have, but by how resourceful you can be. Chris has built and owned 19 companies, with his businesses being featured in Forbes, ABC, House Hunters, and his very own HGTV pilot in 2018. He is the founder of The Money School™ and Money Mentor for The Money Multiplier. His success also includes managing tens of millions of dollars in assets in the financial services and advisory industry and in real estate transactions. As an innovator and visionary in wealth-building and real estate, he empowers entrepreneurs, business owners, and real estate investors with the knowledge of how money works. Chris is also a nationally recognized speaker, author, and podcast host. He has spoken to and taught over ten thousand Americans, delivering the financial knowledge that fuels lasting freedom.   Resources Private Money Guide:  https://go.moneyschoolrei.com/book-podcast Wealth Wednesday Webinar: https://go.moneyschoolrei.com/wednesday-webinar-podcast Mapping out the Millionaire Mystery:  https://go.moneyschoolrei.com/newbook-podcast    

Once income crosses $300K, taxes often become one of the largest controllable expenses. At that level, several things begin to change: • deductions phase out • equity compensation adds complexity • timing decisions matter more We recently recorded a discussion covering several of these considerations. If you'd like to discuss your situation: Set Time on Our Calendar We're also hosting a live Zoom session covering our views on recent market developments. To sign up, click the link below: https://tinyurl.com/ReserveYourPlaceforMarch31 No Client or potential client should assume that any information presented or made available on or through this video should be construed as personalized financial planning or investment advice. Personalized financial planning and investment advice can only be rendered after engagement of the firm for services, execution of the required documentation, and receipt of required disclosures. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. Additional information about Left Brain is available in its current disclosure documents, Form ADV, Form ADV Part 2A Brochure, and Client Relationship Summary (Form CRS), which are available online via the SEC's Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) database at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/170348.

We got a great question from a listener. They wrote in: "What's better- term life insurance, universal life, or whole life?" Straightforward question. Not a straightforward answer, especially if you're in your 50s. Today we're going to walk through all three...     Important Links: Website: https://www.cpweldegroup.com/ Call: 610-388-7705   Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors ("PCA") an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Ohio. CP Welde Group and PCA are separate, non-affiliated entities. PCA does not provide tax or legal advice. Insurance and tax services offered through CP Welde Group are not affiliated with PCA. Information received from this podcast should not be viewed as individual investment advice. Product discussions and illustrations are hypothetical in nature and will vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, age, health, product, insurance carrier and product design. You should consult the insurance carrier website and policy for detailed information. Content may have been created by a Third Party and was not written or created by a PCA affiliated advisor and does not represent the views and opinions of PCA or its subsidiaries.  For information pertaining to the registration status of PCA, please contact the firm or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure web site (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about PCA, including fees and services, send for our disclosure statement as set forth on Form ADV from PCA using the contact information herein. Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you invest or send money.

Nobody likes tax season. But for new retirees, it can come with a few unwelcome surprises. The rules have changed, the income sources have shifted, and strategies that made sense during your working years may no longer apply. Today we're looking at some of the biggest tax mistakes retirees make as discussed in a recent Kiplinger article and whether these match what we see in the real world.    Important Links: Website: https://www.cpweldegroup.com/ Call: 610-388-7705   Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors ("PCA") an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Ohio. CP Welde Group and PCA are separate, non-affiliated entities. PCA does not provide tax or legal advice. Insurance and tax services offered through CP Welde Group are not affiliated with PCA. Information received from this podcast should not be viewed as individual investment advice. Product discussions and illustrations are hypothetical in nature and will vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, age, health, product, insurance carrier and product design. You should consult the insurance carrier website and policy for detailed information. Content may have been created by a Third Party and was not written or created by a PCA affiliated advisor and does not represent the views and opinions of PCA or its subsidiaries.  For information pertaining to the registration status of PCA, please contact the firm or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure web site (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about PCA, including fees and services, send for our disclosure statement as set forth on Form ADV from PCA using the contact information herein. Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you invest or send money.

For 15 years, buying the dip worked.  That conditioning may now be a liability. Defensive sectors are leading. Growth multiples are compressing. For more than a decade, markets rewarded a simple discipline: buy the dip. It worked. But leadership is rotating. Growth multiples are compressing. Defensive sectors are leading. Financials aren't responding to favorable backdrops. Gold is rising. Bitcoin isn't acting like digital gold. This doesn't automatically signal collapse and we don't think there is any reason to panic. But it does raise a more important question: Is the environment that rewarded dip-buying still intact? In this episode of Fundamentals of Investing, we discuss: • Multiple compression in growth stocks • Why defensive sectors are leading • Interest rate uncertainty • The cost of sitting in cash • Managing concentrated stock exposure • Why we're prioritizing predictability and durability If you manage meaningful capital, this is a timely conversation. Register for our March 31 Strategic Adjustments Briefing: https://go.levitate.ai/?s=0d6fRcNnpH&source=event Download our Income Securities Guide: https://leftbrainwm.com/income-securities Schedule time to discuss your plan for this market with us: https://m.levitate.ai/67de35-5f2c7t/30-minute-meeting-virtual-For-New-Prospective-Clients Visit our website at https://leftbrainwm.com "Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal and fluctuation of value. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. This podcast is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. The opinions expressed are as of the date noted and may change as subsequent conditions vary. The information and opinions contained in this video are derived from proprietary and nonproprietary sources deemed by Left Brain Wealth Management, LLC ("Left Brain") to be reliable, are not necessarily all-inclusive and are not guaranteed as to accuracy. As such, no warranty of accuracy or reliability is given and no responsibility arising in any other way for errors and omissions (including responsibility to any person by reason of negligence) is accepted by Left Brain), its principals, employees, agents or affiliates. This video may contain "forward-looking" information that is not purely historical in nature. Such information may include, among other things, projections, and forecasts. There is no guarantee that any forecasts made will materialize. Reliance upon information in this letter is at sole discretion of the reader.  Please consult with your Left Brain financial advisor to ensure that any contemplated transaction in any securities mentioned in this video aligns with your overall investment goals, objectives and tolerance for risk. In addition, please note that Left Brain, including its principals, employees, agents, affiliates and advisory clients, may have positions in one or more of the securities discussed in this communication or effect transactions contrary to the views expressed in this communication based upon individual or firm circumstances. Any decision to effect transactions in the securities discussed within this communication should be balanced against the potential conflict of interest that Left Brain has by virtue of its investment in one or more of these securities.  Additional information about Left Brain is available in its current disclosure documents, Form ADV, Form ADV Part 2A Brochure, and Client Relationship Summary (Form CRS), which are available online via the SEC's Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) database at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/170348.  Left Brain is neither an attorney nor an accountant, and no portion of this content should be interpreted as legal, accounting or tax advice. Left Brain does not provide investment banking services nor engages in principal or agency cross transactions."

There's no shortage of financial advice out there, and unfortunately, not all of it is good. Some of the most damaging retirement mistakes don't come from reckless behavior, but from ideas that sound reasonable and get repeated often enough to feel true. Today, we're busting some of the most common retirement planning myths and explaining why believing them can quietly derail an otherwise solid plan.    Important Links: Website: https://www.cpweldegroup.com/ Call: 610-388-7705   Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors ("PCA") an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Ohio. CP Welde Group and PCA are separate, non-affiliated entities. PCA does not provide tax or legal advice. Insurance and tax services offered through CP Welde Group are not affiliated with PCA. Information received from this podcast should not be viewed as individual investment advice. Product discussions and illustrations are hypothetical in nature and will vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, age, health, product, insurance carrier and product design. You should consult the insurance carrier website and policy for detailed information. Content may have been created by a Third Party and was not written or created by a PCA affiliated advisor and does not represent the views and opinions of PCA or its subsidiaries.  For information pertaining to the registration status of PCA, please contact the firm or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure web site (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about PCA, including fees and services, send for our disclosure statement as set forth on Form ADV from PCA using the contact information herein. Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you invest or send money.

https://www.riacomptech.com/2026-filing-roadmap-for-riasDiscover the critical SEC and state compliance deadlines RIAs must meet in 2026, from Form ADV amendments to the June 3 Regulation S-P cybersecurity deadline. Learn how to shift from reactive stress to a proactive, year-round compliance rhythm. RIA Compliance Technology City: Scottsdale Address: 10031 E Dynamite Blvd Suite 240 Website: https://riacomptech.com/

A new government-backed savings account for kids is coming. On the surface, it sounds like a win. Free money for newborns, long-term investing, and a head start on adulthood. But once you look under the hood, Trump Accounts raise some real questions about taxes, flexibility, and whether they beat existing options. Today, we're walking through the pros and cons and asking if this new account is worth the effort.    Important Links: Website: https://www.cpweldegroup.com/ Call: 610-388-7705   Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors ("PCA") an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Ohio. CP Welde Group and PCA are separate, non-affiliated entities. PCA does not provide tax or legal advice. Insurance and tax services offered through CP Welde Group are not affiliated with PCA. Information received from this podcast should not be viewed as individual investment advice. Product discussions and illustrations are hypothetical in nature and will vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, age, health, product, insurance carrier and product design. You should consult the insurance carrier website and policy for detailed information. Content may have been created by a Third Party and was not written or created by a PCA affiliated advisor and does not represent the views and opinions of PCA or its subsidiaries.  For information pertaining to the registration status of PCA, please contact the firm or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure web site (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about PCA, including fees and services, send for our disclosure statement as set forth on Form ADV from PCA using the contact information herein. Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you invest or send money.

Don and Tom examine the long disciplinary history of former broker James Tuberosa and his attempt to reinvent himself as a registered investment advisor through a newly formed firm, highlighting how fiduciary language can be used to mask conflicts driven by insurance commissions. They walk listeners through the importance of reading Form ADV disclosures and explain how regulatory gaps allow questionable practices to continue. The episode reinforces the principle of “buyer beware” before shifting to listener questions on saving for major expenses, evaluating high-fee annuities for elderly retirees, Roth IRA investing for young adults, and the advantages modern investors enjoy from lower costs and better diversification. The show closes with reflections on financial literacy, generational investing improvements, and a preview of RetireMeet 2026. 0:05 Opening and setup: broker misconduct story 0:10 James Tuberosa's career and long record of complaints 1:14 FINRA expulsion and failed expungement lawsuit 2:42 How complaints get quietly “settled” 3:51 Shift from broker to RIA status 4:49 Skyview Pinnacle and the “clean” front 5:48 Using fiduciary language as marketing cover 7:17 Why insurance escapes SEC oversight 8:22 Conflicts disclosed in ADV 9:19 Why disclosures matter 10:47 Warning signs: promises and product pitching 12:01 Weakness of fiduciary protection 13:08 Ethical failures at large firms 14:38 Fiduciary vs. commission contradiction 15:36 Why reading ADVs protects investors 16:17 Transition to listener questions 17:16 Sinking funds: investing vs. saving 18:40 Planning for major home repairs 19:36 Elderly couple and complex annuity 21:01 Risks of high-fee variable annuities 22:36 Best Roth IRA investment for young adults 23:24 Advantages for today's investors 24:58 Lower costs and better diversification today 26:38 Historical perspective on investing access 28:10 Listener engagement and contact info Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Questions? Comments?Don and Tom examine the long disciplinary history of former broker James Tuberosa and his attempt to reinvent himself as a registered investment advisor through a newly formed firm, highlighting how fiduciary language can be used to mask conflicts driven by insurance commissions. They walk listeners through the importance of reading Form ADV disclosures and explain how regulatory gaps allow questionable practices to continue. The episode reinforces the principle of “buyer beware” before shifting to listener questions on saving for major expenses, evaluating high-fee annuities for elderly retirees, Roth IRA investing for young adults, and the advantages modern investors enjoy from lower costs and better diversification. The show closes with reflections on financial literacy, generational investing improvements, and a preview of RetireMeet 2026.0:05 Opening and setup: broker misconduct story0:10 James Tuberosa's career and long record of complaints1:14 FINRA expulsion and failed expungement lawsuit2:42 How complaints get quietly “settled”3:51 Shift from broker to RIA status4:49 Skyview Pinnacle and the “clean” front5:48 Using fiduciary language as marketing cover7:17 Why insurance escapes SEC oversight8:22 Conflicts disclosed in ADV9:19 Why disclosures matter10:47 Warning signs: promises and product pitching12:01 Weakness of fiduciary protection13:08 Ethical failures at large firms14:38 Fiduciary vs. commission contradiction15:36 Why reading ADVs protects investors16:17 Transition to listener questions17:16 Sinking funds: investing vs. saving18:40 Planning for major home repairs19:36 Elderly couple and complex annuity21:01 Risks of high-fee variable annuities22:36 Best Roth IRA investment for young adults23:24 Advantages for today's investors24:58 Lower costs and better diversification today26:38 Historical perspective on investing access28:10 Listener engagement and contact infoLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's mailbag time! Today, Charles answers recent listener questions sent into the show. From worrying about inflation and holding too much cash, to downsizing- or upsizing- into retirement, this episode tackles the financial dilemmas listeners are facing in 2026.   Important Links: Website: https://www.cpweldegroup.com/ Call: 610-388-7705   Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors ("PCA") an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Ohio. CP Welde Group and PCA are separate, non-affiliated entities. PCA does not provide tax or legal advice. Insurance and tax services offered through CP Welde Group are not affiliated with PCA. Information received from this podcast should not be viewed as individual investment advice. Product discussions and illustrations are hypothetical in nature and will vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, age, health, product, insurance carrier and product design. You should consult the insurance carrier website and policy for detailed information. Content may have been created by a Third Party and was not written or created by a PCA affiliated advisor and does not represent the views and opinions of PCA or its subsidiaries.  For information pertaining to the registration status of PCA, please contact the firm or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure web site (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about PCA, including fees and services, send for our disclosure statement as set forth on Form ADV from PCA using the contact information herein. Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you invest or send money.

In this episode, Josh and Amelie discuss the confusing world of financial advisors and give listeners ideas for evaluating a potential advisor. The hosts explain why job titles are meaningless and certifications vary widely in rigor, with the Certified Financial Planner® (CFP®) standing out as the gold standard. They clarify how the fiduciary standard works, including why just the Series 65–only advisors are legally bound to act in a client's best interest at all times. The conversation then walks through how to use BrokerCheck and Form ADV to uncover an advisor's licenses, conflicts of interest, fees, custody arrangements, and more. Together, these tools may help consumers find the right advisor for their needs. Top takeaways: Job Titles Are Meaningless: Vice president, wealth manager, and similar titles are unregulated and don't indicate competence or ethics. Certifications Vary Widely Over 400 financial certifications exist; many require little more than paying a fee. The CFP® is the gold standard for personal financial planning due to its rigorous exam, education requirements, enforced code of ethics, and continuing‑education requirements. BrokerCheck Is Your First Stop (https://brokercheck.finra.org/) Every licensed advisor remains in the system permanently. If an “investment professional” isn't listed, they're either an insurance agent or they're operating illegally. Review disclosures carefully; multiple complaints or hidden details are red flags. Fiduciary Status Is Critical Only advisors with a Series 65 license (look for “IA” in BrokerCheck) and no other licenses are legally bound to act in the client's best interest at all times. Advisors with multiple licenses (e.g., IA and broker) can switch roles—and obligations—mid‑conversation (and without telling you they switched roles). Commissions Influence Advice Academic studies show that advisors recommend products with higher commissions. Brokers and insurance agents are legally obligated to act in the best interest of their firms, not their clients. Form ADV Part 2 Shares Key Information About the Advisor Required for all registered Investment Advisers (IAs). Includes services, fee schedule, conflicts of interest, investment philosophy, and custody details (who is the custodian of your money). Good advisors make their ADV and fee schedule easy to find. Custody Protects You Look for advisors who use large, third‑party custodians who will protect you (not the firm). Small custodians can be vulnerable to conflicts of interest, as seen in the Bernie Madoff case. Transparency Is Important Advisors who openly share fees, conflicts of interest, and regulatory documents demonstrate integrity. Marketing transparency often reflects operational transparency. One Advisor Profile to Look For (in our opinion) Series 65 license only (legal fiduciary duty) CFP® designation (rigorous training and ethics) Clear, accessible disclosures and fee transparency Uses a large, reputable third‑party custodian Want help building or growing a successful financial coaching business? Find resources below based on where you're at in your journey: - Deciding whether Financial Coaching is right for you? Join our free Facebook Community with over 5000 current and aspiring financial coaches! https://www.facebook.com/groups/financialcoachescommunity - Already decided you're going to be a Financial Coach and want to learn more? Get 30+ tips and best practices in our free 8-part email series! https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/pre-launch-email-series - Ready to Launch your Financial Coaching business? Join FCN Biz DIY, our step-by-step program that will help you successfully launch your business in four months and grow it to a consistent part-time income. https://www.financialcoachesnetwork.com/biz-diy - Are you excited by financial coaching but not running a coaching business? MoneyCoach Network partners with financial coaches to handle the entire “business” side of having a financial coaching business. Sign up to Beta Test MoneyCoach Network (https://form.jotform.com/231063470154043)

Nothing will mess with your financial confidence faster than comparing your savings to your brother, your coworkers, or that guy on YouTube who claims he retired at 35. Your retirement number isn't a competition. Let's talk about what really matters when you're trying to figure out if you're behind on your savings goals…and what to do if you actually are.   Important Links: Website: https://www.cpweldegroup.com/ Call: 610-388-7705   Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors ("PCA") an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Ohio. CP Welde Group and PCA are separate, non-affiliated entities. PCA does not provide tax or legal advice. Insurance and tax services offered through CP Welde Group are not affiliated with PCA. Information received from this podcast should not be viewed as individual investment advice. Product discussions and illustrations are hypothetical in nature and will vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, age, health, product, insurance carrier and product design. You should consult the insurance carrier website and policy for detailed information. Content may have been created by a Third Party and was not written or created by a PCA affiliated advisor and does not represent the views and opinions of PCA or its subsidiaries.  For information pertaining to the registration status of PCA, please contact the firm or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure web site (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about PCA, including fees and services, send for our disclosure statement as set forth on Form ADV from PCA using the contact information herein. Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you invest or send money.

In this episode, we tackle a wide spectrum of listener questions about retirement, divorce, inheritance, taxes, investing, and paying for big life events. If you've ever wondered how to navigate financial decisions when everything happens at once, this conversation is for you.   Important Links: Website: https://www.cpweldegroup.com/ Call: 610-388-7705   Financial Planning and Advisory Services are offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors ("PCA") an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Ohio. CP Welde Group and PCA are separate, non-affiliated entities. PCA does not provide tax or legal advice. Insurance and tax services offered through CP Welde Group are not affiliated with PCA. Information received from this podcast should not be viewed as individual investment advice. Product discussions and illustrations are hypothetical in nature and will vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, age, health, product, insurance carrier and product design. You should consult the insurance carrier website and policy for detailed information. Content may have been created by a Third Party and was not written or created by a PCA affiliated advisor and does not represent the views and opinions of PCA or its subsidiaries.  For information pertaining to the registration status of PCA, please contact the firm or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure web site (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about PCA, including fees and services, send for our disclosure statement as set forth on Form ADV from PCA using the contact information herein. Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you invest or send money.

Questions? Comments?Don and Tom go deep on a shady “non-profit” financial education group that funnels retirees into high-commission indexed annuities, using a listener tip to unpack the advisor's fake credentials, mismatched ADV filings, dubious fiduciary claims, and the simple math that reveals where the money really comes from. Along the way, they cover how to investigate advisors yourself, why financial fairy tales persist, and answer listener questions on Avantis gold holdings, private equity's impact on small-cap value, and the quality of Schwab's 529 plan.0:04 Don's industry rant and a look at the “American Financial Education Alliance” disguise.1:01 How pseudo-nonprofits target advisors and consumers with “no-sales” sales pitches.2:20 Tom's take on the recycled seminar game and fake educator designations.3:40 Listener tip sparks Don's PI dive into the flyer, claims, and contradictions.4:49 How to vet advisors using BrokerCheck and Form ADV.5:58 The firm's tiny AUM and impossible economics of their claimed operations.8:02 The Maryland house vs. the Lakewood Ranch mansion — where the money REALLY comes from.9:25 The inevitable reveal: indexed annuity commissions driving the whole machine.10:18 Breaking down the seminar pitch language and the deceptive “market returns without risk” promise.11:24 Why the sales story collapses under math and dividends.12:34 The “licensed fiduciary” myth and regulatory reality for small firms.14:38 How consumers get fooled by the fiduciary framing in seminar mailers.16:13 Don and Tom dissect the pre-fab radio/TV show factories behind these advisors.17:19 Why the meeting is the real sales trap — and how to avoid it.18:48 Don's plea: stop believing financial fairy tales.19:26 Don jokes about infiltrating steak-dinner seminars undercover.20:14 Transition to listener Q&A from Maryland: AVDV's gold exposure.21:26 Why Avantis owns gold miners without being “in gold.”23:47 Momentum, value screens, and why the gold weight makes sense.24:26 Gold Hill, Oregon 529 question: Is the Schwab plan good?25:30 Age-based 529s and Schwab's low-cost structure.27:28 Private equity fears: will it starve small-cap value indexes?28:41 Why the concern is mostly a media creation, not an investment reality.29:48 Don on the IPO–private–IPO cycle and how markets actually work.30:11 Why private equity performs worse in bad markets.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don and Tom go deep on a shady “non-profit” financial education group that funnels retirees into high-commission indexed annuities, using a listener tip to unpack the advisor's fake credentials, mismatched ADV filings, dubious fiduciary claims, and the simple math that reveals where the money really comes from. Along the way, they cover how to investigate advisors yourself, why financial fairy tales persist, and answer listener questions on Avantis gold holdings, private equity's impact on small-cap value, and the quality of Schwab's 529 plan. 0:04 Don's industry rant and a look at the “American Financial Education Alliance” disguise. 1:01 How pseudo-nonprofits target advisors and consumers with “no-sales” sales pitches. 2:20 Tom's take on the recycled seminar game and fake educator designations. 3:40 Listener tip sparks Don's PI dive into the flyer, claims, and contradictions. 4:49 How to vet advisors using BrokerCheck and Form ADV. 5:58 The firm's tiny AUM and impossible economics of their claimed operations. 8:02 The Maryland house vs. the Lakewood Ranch mansion — where the money REALLY comes from. 9:25 The inevitable reveal: indexed annuity commissions driving the whole machine. 10:18 Breaking down the seminar pitch language and the deceptive “market returns without risk” promise. 11:24 Why the sales story collapses under math and dividends. 12:34 The “licensed fiduciary” myth and regulatory reality for small firms. 14:38 How consumers get fooled by the fiduciary framing in seminar mailers. 16:13 Don and Tom dissect the pre-fab radio/TV show factories behind these advisors. 17:19 Why the meeting is the real sales trap — and how to avoid it. 18:48 Don's plea: stop believing financial fairy tales. 19:26 Don jokes about infiltrating steak-dinner seminars undercover. 20:14 Transition to listener Q&A from Maryland: AVDV's gold exposure. 21:26 Why Avantis owns gold miners without being “in gold.” 23:47 Momentum, value screens, and why the gold weight makes sense. 24:26 Gold Hill, Oregon 529 question: Is the Schwab plan good? 25:30 Age-based 529s and Schwab's low-cost structure. 27:28 Private equity fears: will it starve small-cap value indexes? 28:41 Why the concern is mostly a media creation, not an investment reality. 29:48 Don on the IPO–private–IPO cycle and how markets actually work. 30:11 Why private equity performs worse in bad markets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every RIA with a December 31st fiscal year faces the March 31st Form ADV deadline. A compliance expert breaks down common mistakes, SEC focus areas for 2025, and practical strategies to streamline your filing and strengthen client trust.Visit https://riacomptech.com/simple-form-adv-solutions/ RIA Compliance Technology City: Scottsdale Address: 10031 E Dynamite Blvd Suite 240 Website: https://riacomptech.com/

While journalists breathlessly report on a plane crash or a train derailment, they are silent on a more salient fact: about 1.2 million people will die this year in car crashes. Fortunately for future generations, most of these terrible drivers are going to be replaced by a computer. In fact, in a number of countries (Norway, UAE) that is already happening, and in the US, it will significantly occur in the next decade.Source: GrokThe one snag is that roughly 1 job in 10 in the US—broadly defined—is tied to driving a vehicle, if one includes cabs, forklifts, insurance agents, and so on. Said differently, to save 1 million people a year from dying in a car crash, tens of millions of people are going to lose their jobs. To put this in perspective, I am thrilled to share my conversation with Alexei Andreev. He is the co-founder of Autotech Ventures, a venture capital fund, and holds degrees from Stanford and the Moscow Steel and Alloys Institute. Alexei has been investing in this shift for years and will walk you through it.Earlier this week, I rowed under Route 95 pre-dawn, cars and trucks hurtling down the road. In the quiet of a scull, looking up, it is an industrial maw. I had a flashback to watching the Cape Ann Tool Factory as a child. Enormous furnaces poured steel and pounding presses turned them into tools. I was spellbound by the heat and noise. I suspect we will look back on Route 95 the same way. In my lifetime, it will likely be replaced by quiet, humming electrical cars driven by robots. The tool factory is now abandoned. This shift is bearish for the cost of labor, bullish for corporate margins and materials that go into creating energy, and bad for politics. What politician can win on a platform of technical change that displaces tens of millions of jobs?This document is strictly confidential and is intended for authorized recipients of “A Letter from Paul” (the “Letter”) only. It includes personal opinions that are current as of the date of this Letter and does not represent the official positions of Kate Capital LLC (“Kate Capital”). This letter is presented for discussion purposes only and is not intended as investment advice, an offer, or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any security. Any unauthorized copying, disclosure, or distribution of the material in this presentation is strictly forbidden without the express written consent of Paul Podolsky or Kate Capital LLC.If an investment idea is discussed in the Letter, there is no guarantee that the investment objective will be achieved. Past performance is not indicative of future results, which may vary. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied. Unless otherwise noted, the valuation of the specific investment opportunity contained within this presentation is based upon information and data available as of the date these materials were prepared.An investment with Kate Capital is speculative and involves significant risks, including the potential loss of all or a substantial portion of invested capital, the potential use of leverage, and the lack of liquidity of an investment. Recipients should not assume that securities or any companies identified in this presentation, or otherwise related to the information in this presentation, are, have been or will be, investments held by accounts managed by Kate Capital or that investments in any such securities have been or will be profitable. Please refer to the Private Placement Memorandum, and Kate Capital's Form ADV, available at www.advisorinfo.sec.gov, for important information about an investment with Kate Capital.Any companies identified herein in which Kate Capital is invested do not represent all of the investments made or recommended for any account managed by Kate Capital. Certain information presented herein has been supplied by third parties, including management or agents of the underlying portfolio company. While Kate Capital believes such information to be accurate, it has relied upon such third parties to provide accurate information and has not independently verified such information.The graphs, charts, and other visual aids are provided for informational purposes only. None of these graphs, charts, or visual aids can of themselves be used to make investment decisions. No representation is made that these will assist any person in making investment decisions and no graph, chart or other visual aid can capture all factors and variables required in making such decisions. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulpodolsky.substack.com

I was traveling this week, so today is mostly sharing a podcast with Pedro Lopez, who created the remarkable series Gloria on Netflix. Regarding investments, I want to share a brief follow-up on last week's post about the impact of AI on labor. A fun fact: there are over 6 million jobs in the US tied to driving a vehicle of some sort, making up 5% of the workforce. While regulations and unions discourage this, many of these jobs could be replaced today by a computer, which would be both safer and cheaper. The consensus is that AI will only slowly impact the labor force. I suspect this is wrong and it will only become obvious after it has happened. A possible straw in the wind is that youth unemployment is higher in the US and China, the two countries at the forefront of AI application. I show both charts below.Source: Haver.I know anecdotally from college-age kids and their parents that it is hard to find work. This is certainly true in the US, Canada, and China. AI is particularly good at entry-level work. This is less evident in Europe, and it stands to reason that Europe's labor laws might make it harder to gut the IT department, creating a delayed effect and staving off the inevitable. Regarding the podcast, in addition to AI, we are living through a period of media creative destruction. The internet gave birth to Netflix and signaled the decline of the major television networks and film studios. Pedro created a story about another media revolution—Radio Free Europe in Portugal in 1968. The story takes place during the height of the Cold War and Portugal's own dictatorship and is full of fascinating contradictions. When I grew up in the 1970s, the odds of me consuming Pedro's art were close to zero. Now I don't know what airs on television but pass along good Netflix shows like precious currency in a new bazar. Enjoy.If you like this writing, you might enjoy one of my books:Raising a Thief, Master, Minion, The Uncomfortable Truth About MoneyThis document is strictly confidential and is intended for authorized recipients of “A Letter from Paul” (the “Letter”) only. It includes personal opinions that are current as of the date of this Letter and does not represent the official positions of Kate Capital LLC (“Kate Capital”). This letter is presented for discussion purposes only and is not intended as investment advice, an offer, or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any security. Any unauthorized copying, disclosure, or distribution of the material in this presentation is strictly forbidden without the express written consent of Paul Podolsky or Kate Capital LLC.If an investment idea is discussed in the Letter, there is no guarantee that the investment objective will be achieved. Past performance is not indicative of future results, which may vary. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied. Unless otherwise noted, the valuation of the specific investment opportunity contained within this presentation is based upon information and data available as of the date these materials were prepared.An investment with Kate Capital is speculative and involves significant risks, including the potential loss of all or a substantial portion of invested capital, the potential use of leverage, and the lack of liquidity of an investment. Recipients should not assume that securities or any companies identified in this presentation, or otherwise related to the information in this presentation, are, have been or will be, investments held by accounts managed by Kate Capital or that investments in any such securities have been or will be profitable. Please refer to the Private Placement Memorandum, and Kate Capital's Form ADV, available at www.advisorinfo.sec.gov, for important information about an investment with Kate Capital.Any companies identified herein in which Kate Capital is invested do not represent all of the investments made or recommended for any account managed by Kate Capital. Certain information presented herein has been supplied by third parties, including management or agents of the underlying portfolio company. While Kate Capital believes such information to be accurate, it has relied upon such third parties to provide accurate information and has not independently verified such information.The graphs, charts, and other visual aids are provided for informational purposes only. None of these graphs, charts, or visual aids can of themselves be used to make investment decisions. No representation is made that these will assist any person in making investment decisions and no graph, chart or other visual aid can capture all factors and variables required in making such decisions. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulpodolsky.substack.com

Questions? Comments?In this hard-hitting episode, Don and Tom expose “Retirement Planning University”—a slick, misleading marketing operation posing as a legitimate educational program. Despite hosting seminars at respected universities, the organization isn't accredited and exists primarily to funnel attendees into high-commission indexed annuities sold by Strategic Wealth Investment Group. The duo break down the tangled relationships, the legal gray zones (including a likely violation of Florida law), and the wildly under-disclosed conflicts buried deep in Form ADV filings. Plus: a call from a skeptical listener about global diversification, a backdoor Roth update in response to H.R.1, a heartwarming tribute to Tom's mother-in-law, and a brutal real-world annuity pitch targeting grieving beneficiaries. This one hits hard.0:04 Thunder and fireworks, then a storm of a different kind: fake financial education1:20 “Retirement Planning University” is not accredited—possibly illegal in Florida2:38 Florida law: using “university” in a name can be a crime4:21 Strategic Wealth Investment Group funnels money into their “nonprofit”6:27 Don breaks down Form 990 and discovers $6.3M in funding with 1.8% used for education8:50 A never-before-seen conflict disclosure: over a page of indexed annuity conflicts11:02 Universities that rent space to these events—should they be ashamed?13:56 Don confesses: used ChatGPT to surface filings, laws, and charity reports faster15:40 Final verdict: it's not education—it's a sophisticated lead funnel17:18 Caller Jack: Is VT too concentrated in tech megacaps like Apple and Nvidia?19:22 Don: It's still globally diversified, but yes, value/small tilts help21:57 A heartfelt tribute to Tom's mother-in-law and her one smart money move: LTC insurance23:01 Caller Mark: Does the new tax bill kill backdoor Roths?27:18 Don runs the full 900-page bill through GPT—no mention of Roth changes28:56 Sidebar: elderly elephant tourists and Romanian bear selfies30:36 Caller Mary: Advisor pitching a 1035 annuity swap to dodge IRMA34:42 Don and Tom: Just pay the IRMA bump—don't buy another bad annuity36:44 The IRMA fear is way overblown; it's just one year39:18 Why aren't these practices banned? Because regulators are stretched thin40:12 Don taught real adult education classes—but the next “educator” was a brokerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this hard-hitting episode, Don and Tom expose “Retirement Planning University”—a slick, misleading marketing operation posing as a legitimate educational program. Despite hosting seminars at respected universities, the organization isn't accredited and exists primarily to funnel attendees into high-commission indexed annuities sold by Strategic Wealth Investment Group. The duo break down the tangled relationships, the legal gray zones (including a likely violation of Florida law), and the wildly under-disclosed conflicts buried deep in Form ADV filings. Plus: a call from a skeptical listener about global diversification, a backdoor Roth update in response to H.R.1, a heartwarming tribute to Tom's mother-in-law, and a brutal real-world annuity pitch targeting grieving beneficiaries. This one hits hard. 0:04 Thunder and fireworks, then a storm of a different kind: fake financial education 1:20 “Retirement Planning University” is not accredited—possibly illegal in Florida 2:38 Florida law: using “university” in a name can be a crime 4:21 Strategic Wealth Investment Group funnels money into their “nonprofit” 6:27 Don breaks down Form 990 and discovers $6.3M in funding with 1.8% used for education 8:50 A never-before-seen conflict disclosure: over a page of indexed annuity conflicts 11:02 Universities that rent space to these events—should they be ashamed? 13:56 Don confesses: used ChatGPT to surface filings, laws, and charity reports faster 15:40 Final verdict: it's not education—it's a sophisticated lead funnel 17:18 Caller Jack: Is VT too concentrated in tech megacaps like Apple and Nvidia? 19:22 Don: It's still globally diversified, but yes, value/small tilts help 21:57 A heartfelt tribute to Tom's mother-in-law and her one smart money move: LTC insurance 23:01 Caller Mark: Does the new tax bill kill backdoor Roths? 27:18 Don runs the full 900-page bill through GPT—no mention of Roth changes 28:56 Sidebar: elderly elephant tourists and Romanian bear selfies 30:36 Caller Mary: Advisor pitching a 1035 annuity swap to dodge IRMA 34:42 Don and Tom: Just pay the IRMA bump—don't buy another bad annuity 36:44 The IRMA fear is way overblown; it's just one year 39:18 Why aren't these practices banned? Because regulators are stretched thin 40:12 Don taught real adult education classes—but the next “educator” was a broker Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

THIS IS NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. INVESTING IS RISKY AND OFTEN PAINFUL. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Last week at this time, investors and the world were wondering if an attack on Iran would spiral into a broader war. Since then, oil prices plunged nearly 20% (shown below), and the focus shifted to TALO. The White House criticized Canada for having the audacity to do to the US what China did—retaliate where it hurts. China restricted rare earth exports, while Canada imposed digital taxes. Same idea.Given that Iran is now in the rearview mirror, where does that leave us? A few thoughts on markets below. Before I jump in, however, two podcasts. First, I spoke last week with Democratic Congressman Jim Himes, who accurately predicted the policy with Iran and also shared his thoughts with what is going on in DC more broadly. Among other interesting points: Congress won't constrain spending until a crisis emerges. This suggests ever-larger deficits until long-end bond yields spike. Other countries are balancing their budgets; the US, not so much. Second, a past guest, Dr. Alexander Vanyukov, was labeled a “foreign agent” by Russia last week. You can hear our 2021 conversation here. Alexander is a friend and a remarkable person—the type a government should treasure. You can hear why in this podcast. During COVID, his hospital was on the front lines, and among other innovative solutions, he called for volunteers in a notoriously cynical society and recruited soccer hooligans to care for grandmothers. I'm not making this up. That Russia is punishing someone like him shows how far the government has veered off course, alienating talent, as it has for generations. Russia is dangerous, and the US will likely abandon Ukraine to Russia's grip as fall approaches and US funding dries up. While it won't happen this fall, if Russia isn't contained, other countries will end up in Ukraine's situation. We all know the story; Alexander's conversation puts a human face on it. Regarding the markets, three big themes stand out: AI, slowing growth, and tariffs.* This week, AI went haywire; the NASDAQ surged nearly 4% and is now up 4.5% for the year. But this had little to do with AI. Instead, it was driven by a) the realization that Iran was foreign policy Kabuki and b) expectations the Fed is about to cut interest rates. But why “b”? Not because the Fed said so. The Fed chief stated the opposite in two days of testimony, emphasizing they are in no hurry to cut rates. Yet, the market anticipates rate cuts and priced in another 25 basis points of cuts just as tariffs are set to kick in and drive up prices. As a result, rate expectations shifted significantly, the yield curve steepened, and stocks soared. We now have a sense of what will happen when rates are cut, though I suspect that won't happen for a while. The line below shows the change in discounting. * Growth is slowing, slowly and at various paces in different countries. If you look at where unemployment is above average and yet bond markets are discounting relative strength, some of the smaller countries on the periphery stand out, like New Zealand and Sweden. That said, our perception is that growth is gradually slowing everywhere. Most governments are reducing spending, private sector borrowing is lackluster, and unemployment is rising, so incomes are falling. In short, where is the fuel for a boom, outside of AI?* Tariffs are coming. We just don't know how much or when, and everyone is confused. If I were the Fed, I'd stick to my guns and hold off on rate changes until inflation and employment data clarify the situation. If I were in the White House, I'd delay the tariffs because signing these deals is clearly tough. If I were Canada or China, I'd do exactly what they are doing. How many times has the US Commerce Secretary said a flurry of deals was just around the corner? The net effect of the uncertainty is loose monetary policy globally (as growth slows), and the net effect of technology is deflation, so the rally in assets (stocks and bonds) might just be getting started. However, the focus could shift to Asia, which a) has strong technology, b) has lagged the equity rally, and c) is increasingly focused on shareholder returns. This document is strictly confidential and is intended for authorized recipients of “A Letter from Paul” (the “Letter”) only. It includes personal opinions that are current as of the date of this Letter and does not represent the official positions of Kate Capital LLC (“Kate Capital”). This letter is presented for discussion purposes only and is not intended as investment advice, an offer, or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any security. Any unauthorized copying, disclosure, or distribution of the material in this presentation is strictly forbidden without the express written consent of Paul Podolsky or Kate Capital LLC.If an investment idea is discussed in the Letter, there is no guarantee that the investment objective will be achieved. Past performance is not indicative of future results, which may vary. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied. Unless otherwise noted, the valuation of the specific investment opportunity contained within this presentation is based upon information and data available as of the date these materials were prepared.An investment with Kate Capital is speculative and involves significant risks, including the potential loss of all or a substantial portion of invested capital, the potential use of leverage, and the lack of liquidity of an investment. Recipients should not assume that securities or any companies identified in this presentation, or otherwise related to the information in this presentation, are, have been or will be, investments held by accounts managed by Kate Capital or that investments in any such securities have been or will be profitable. Please refer to the Private Placement Memorandum, and Kate Capital's Form ADV, available at www.advisorinfo.sec.gov, for important information about an investment with Kate Capital.Any companies identified herein in which Kate Capital is invested do not represent all of the investments made or recommended for any account managed by Kate Capital. Certain information presented herein has been supplied by third parties, including management or agents of the underlying portfolio company. While Kate Capital believes such information to be accurate, it has relied upon such third parties to provide accurate information and has not independently verified such information.The graphs, charts, and other visual aids are provided for informational purposes only. None of these graphs, charts, or visual aids can of themselves be used to make investment decisions. No representation is made that these will assist any person in making investment decisions and no graph, chart or other visual aid can capture all factors and variables required in making such decisions. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulpodolsky.substack.com

THIS IS NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. INVESTING IS RISKY AND OFTEN PAINFUL. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH.This week, we learned a few things.First, we learned the big round of central bank easing is probably over. For assets in general (stocks and bonds) to go up, the total amount of printing (easing) needs to increase. While the Fed wasn't easing, most other central banks were. This week, the Bank of Canada and the European Central Bank said they don't see the need to ease further (though the ECB cut rates). There is no pressure on the Bank of Japan to ease. Moreover, a report today on US unemployment was fine, which means there is no urgency for the Fed to cut rates. We went from central bank easing (COVID), to tightening (2022), to easing (2024–now), to today's no expected easing. There had been a broad belief that erratic White House policy would deal a blow to the US and global economy, forcing the Fed to ease. So far, policy seems to have dealt a significant blow to all of our attention spans but not the economy. This is miraculous, but the data suggests it is true. There is a lot of second-tier data showing slowing hiring, but not enough to move the Fed, which means we must now wait for another month. Perhaps the deportations are shrinking the available pool of labor and keeping unemployment down?Second, we learned a fiscal bill is almost certain to be passed soon in the US, with the deficit clocking in at somewhere between 6% and 7%. The only entity that can borrow at scale at these interest rates is the US government. To increase private sector borrowing, interest rates must come down. To get interest rates down, government borrowing must decrease, and that doesn't look like it will happen. This bill is going to be passed despite many thoughtful people saying the same thing Musk is, which is that the deficit is too big. The conversation I share here with Pennsylvania Senator David McCormick (and my former boss) sheds light not only on his new book, Who Believed in You? (co-written with his wife, Dina), but also on what the budget debate looks like from the perspective of a US Senator. As he makes clear, President Trump believes he has a clear mandate to cut taxes, so cut taxes he will. This package, combined with the healthy jobs data, suggests that interest rates could move higher. At some point, this hurts the stock market because why take a flier on AI stocks when a 30-year bond pays you 5.5%? And as we figure this out, listen to Dave and Dina's advice and both seek out great mentors and try to provide the same for others. Third, we learned that trade uncertainty is going to last a long time. Remember that US trade partners were supposed to submit their offers on Wednesday? Nothing doing. Many other deadlines have come and gone. The US has less leverage than it appears. The global trading system is complex and has evolved over decades. So, the US can get justifiably upset about fentanyl, but then China finds a lever to hurt the US (rare earths), and the conflict goes slow. Xi made ample time to meet with Belarus's Lukashenko last week and scarce time to talk to Trump. Why rush? China, like Russia, believes it is winning. This trade uncertainty is one more reason why the Fed will do nothing unless unemployment rises sharply. The tariffs are high, well over 10%, so at some point, this should whack spending, as should higher interest rates.Fourth, we learned that billions of dollars in conventional military spending are not effective against drones. If Ukraine can take out Russia's bombers with drones, then the same can happen to any other major power. This means in a dangerous world, where conflict in Asia can erupt at any moment, the fundamental techniques of modern warfare are in flux and it is less clear who has the upper hand.Where does this leave me?The AI boom is real and ongoing.The Fed (and other central banks) are on hold until unemployment goes up, which means bond yields will probably go to the upper end of their range.Institutional investors are wary of a pro-risk stance (long stocks, short bonds) because of what happened in April (stocks down 20%) and the ongoing haze of tariffs. This probably makes it more likely for stocks to crawl higher. The value of assets that have little to do with the above, like stable cash flow stocks or idiosyncratic bonds, is high, as are assets that can hedge geopolitical conflict. NOTE TO READERS: I'm at a conference next week, so unlikely I'll have time to post. This document is strictly confidential and is intended for authorized recipients of “A Letter from Paul” (the “Letter”) only. It includes personal opinions that are current as of the date of this Letter and does not represent the official positions of Kate Capital LLC (“Kate Capital”). This letter is presented for discussion purposes only and is not intended as investment advice, an offer, or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any security. Any unauthorized copying, disclosure, or distribution of the material in this presentation is strictly forbidden without the express written consent of Paul Podolsky or Kate Capital LLC.If an investment idea is discussed in the Letter, there is no guarantee that the investment objective will be achieved. Past performance is not indicative of future results, which may vary. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied. Unless otherwise noted, the valuation of the specific investment opportunity contained within this presentation is based upon information and data available as of the date these materials were prepared.An investment with Kate Capital is speculative and involves significant risks, including the potential loss of all or a substantial portion of invested capital, the potential use of leverage, and the lack of liquidity of an investment. Recipients should not assume that securities or any companies identified in this presentation, or otherwise related to the information in this presentation, are, have been or will be, investments held by accounts managed by Kate Capital or that investments in any such securities have been or will be profitable. Please refer to the Private Placement Memorandum, and Kate Capital's Form ADV, available at www.advisorinfo.sec.gov, for important information about an investment with Kate Capital.Any companies identified herein in which Kate Capital is invested do not represent all of the investments made or recommended for any account managed by Kate Capital. Certain information presented herein has been supplied by third parties, including management or agents of the underlying portfolio company. While Kate Capital believes such information to be accurate, it has relied upon such third parties to provide accurate information and has not independently verified such information.The graphs, charts, and other visual aids are provided for informational purposes only. None of these graphs, charts, or visual aids can of themselves be used to make investment decisions. No representation is made that these will assist any person in making investment decisions and no graph, chart or other visual aid can capture all factors and variables required in making such decisions. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulpodolsky.substack.com

Building a retirement income strategy involves more than selecting dividend-paying stocks. A focus on total return — which includes both growth and income — can offer a more comprehensive approach for long-term planning.• Relying solely on dividend-paying stocks may reduce portfolio diversification and growth potential• Total return (income + growth) can provide a broader view of long-term investment outcomes• Asset location strategies may improve tax efficiency depending on the type of account• Bond ladders with staggered maturities can help create more consistent income over time• Annuities can provide structured income, though they may have limitations such as fees or inflation sensitivity• The most effective strategy is one that aligns with your goals, risk tolerance, and understanding• Be cautious with complex products — understanding fees, liquidity restrictions, and structure is essentialAdvisory services are offered through Root Financial, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Advisory relationships are established only through a signed agreement. Any examples discussed are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes. If client experiences are referenced, no compensation was provided and their experience may not be representative of others. Comments shared publicly are unsolicited and do not reflect the views or experience of all clients. They are not verified and should not be construed as testimonials or endorsements. Root Financial does not provide tax or legal advice. Tax planning topics are discussed in the context of comprehensive financial planning and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. All investments involve risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Watching or listening to this content does not create an advisory relationship.Create Your Custom Early Retirement Strategy HereGet access to the same software I use for my clients and join the Early Retirement Academy hereAri Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence. “Early Retirement – Financial Freedom” is a podcast produced by Root Financial Partners, an SEC-registered investment adviser. The content provided is for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be interpreted as investment, legal, or tax advice. I may reference planning situations based on real client experiences, but they've been simplified for clarity. Always consult your own financial advisor before making decisions. Listening to this podcast does not create or imply an advisory relationship with Root Financial. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Testimonials and endorsements do not reflect all client experiences and are not compensated. Learn more at our website or by reviewing our Form ADV at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov.

Retired with millions—but full of regret?In this episode of Root Talks, James and Ari share the real stories no one talks about: wealthy retirees who did everything “right” financially but still feel like they missed out. From sacrificing health and relationships for more savings, to realizing too late that they were planning for someone else's version of success, these lessons are emotional, practical, and essential.What you'll learn:Common regrets wealthy retirees confess after leaving workWhy financial freedom means nothing without health, time, or joyHow to avoid estate planning mistakes that burden your spouse or familyWhy intentional living matters more than chasing a numberSimple, high-impact ways to prepare for retirement nowIf you're building wealth, nearing retirement, or want to live more meaningfully today—this conversation is for youCreate Your Custom Early Retirement Strategy HereGet access to the same software I use for my clients and join the Early Retirement Academy hereAri Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence. “Early Retirement – Financial Freedom” is a podcast produced by Root Financial Partners, an SEC-registered investment adviser. The content provided is for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be interpreted as investment, legal, or tax advice. I may reference planning situations based on real client experiences, but they've been simplified for clarity. Always consult your own financial advisor before making decisions. Listening to this podcast does not create or imply an advisory relationship with Root Financial. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Testimonials and endorsements do not reflect all client experiences and are not compensated. Learn more at our website or by reviewing our Form ADV at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov.

Even when the financial plan indicates you're on track, many people experience anxiety—especially between ages 50 and 65, before traditional retirement benefits begin. This episode explores ways to prepare for that critical transition with clarity and confidence.• One of the most impactful retirement risks is withdrawing too much from your portfolio in the early years• Many individuals are “qualified rich, cash limited” with the majority of assets in tax-advantaged retirement accounts• Building a taxable brokerage account can provide additional flexibility before age-based access to retirement funds• For some, temporarily adjusting retirement account contributions may help support short-term liquidity needs (consider your specific situation and consult a financial professional)• Planning ahead for early retirement expenses—such as travel, healthcare, or home projects—can reduce surprises• Avoiding large discretionary expenses early in retirement may help reduce stress on your portfolio• Focus on what you can control: spending, timing of retirement, asset allocation, and strategic withdrawalsAdvisory services are offered through Root Financial, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Advisory relationships are established only through a signed agreement. Any examples discussed are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes. If client experiences are referenced, no compensation was provided and their experience may not be representative of others. Root Financial does not provide tax or legal advice. Tax planning topics are discussed in the context of comprehensive financial planning and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. All investments involve risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Watching or listening to this content does not create an advisory relationship. The Early Retirement Academy is an educational resource offered by Root Financial. Participation may involve a fee. Use of the tool does not establish a client relationship or constitute personalized advice. Comments shared publicly are unsolicited and do not reflect the views or experience of all clients. They are not verified and should not be construed as testimonials or endorsements. Create Your Custom Early Retirement Strategy HereGet access to the same software I use for my clients and join the Early Retirement Academy hereAri Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence. “Early Retirement – Financial Freedom” is a podcast produced by Root Financial Partners, an SEC-registered investment adviser. The content provided is for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be interpreted as investment, legal, or tax advice. I may reference planning situations based on real client experiences, but they've been simplified for clarity. Always consult your own financial advisor before making decisions. Listening to this podcast does not create or imply an advisory relationship with Root Financial. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Testimonials and endorsements do not reflect all client experiences and are not compensated. Learn more at our website or by reviewing our Form ADV at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov.

In this episode, Ari explores six common oversights in early retirement planning that can create unnecessary stress and limit flexibility in the long run.• Not establishing a taxable brokerage account to access funds before traditional retirement age• Overlooking healthcare planning, including available subsidies, which may impact retirement timing• Missing opportunities for tax efficiency through strategies like Roth conversions or coordinated withdrawals• Underestimating the importance of physical health when planning for an active retirement lifestyle• Limiting retirement vision to essential expenses, rather than factoring in meaningful goals and experiences• Focusing only on finances without considering purpose, routine, or fulfillment during retirementSubmit your questions at earlyretirementpodcast.com for future episodes. Are you sabotaging your early retirement with what I call "head trash"? These are the unnecessary worries that keep you working years longer than you need to - like comparing your finances to neighbors without knowing their full picture.Advisory services are offered through Root Financial, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Advisory relationships are established only through a signed agreement. Any examples discussed are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes. If client experiences are referenced, no compensation was provided and their experience may not be representative of others. Comments shared publicly are unsolicited and do not reflect the views or experience of all clients. They are not verified and should not be construed as testimonials or endorsements. Root Financial does not provide tax or legal advice. Tax planning topics are discussed in the context of comprehensive financial planning and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. All investments involve risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Watching or listening to this content does not create an advisory relationship. To learn more about Root or to explore working together, please visit www.rootfinancialpartners.com.Create Your Custom Early Retirement Strategy HereGet access to the same software I use for my clients and join the Early Retirement Academy hereAri Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence. “Early Retirement – Financial Freedom” is a podcast produced by Root Financial Partners, an SEC-registered investment adviser. The content provided is for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be interpreted as investment, legal, or tax advice. I may reference planning situations based on real client experiences, but they've been simplified for clarity. Always consult your own financial advisor before making decisions. Listening to this podcast does not create or imply an advisory relationship with Root Financial. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Testimonials and endorsements do not reflect all client experiences and are not compensated. Learn more at our website or by reviewing our Form ADV at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov.

Many great savers struggle to switch gears once they retire—unsure how to spend with confidence after decades of discipline. James and Ari reflect on the mindset shift from saving to spending, exploring how to use money and time more intentionally to create a meaningful life now, not just someday.Prompted by a thoughtful comment from a Root Collective member, they share personal stories and client examples about the “little splurges” that actually matter—upgrading experiences, investing in health, buying back time, and being generous in ways that deepen relationships.They also walk through five key categories that tend to lead to high-impact, low-regret spending: experiences, time, giving, health, and environment.Whether you're already retired or still working toward it, this conversation will help you think more clearly about the value of your money—and how to use it to support the life you truly want to live.Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Advisory relationships are established only through a signed agreement. Any examples discussed are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes. If client experiences are referenced, no compensation was provided and their experience may not be representative of others. Root Financial does not provide tax or legal advice. Tax planning topics are discussed in the context of comprehensive financial planning and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. All investments involve risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Watching or listening to this content does not create an advisory relationship. Comments shared publicly are unsolicited and do not reflect the views or experience of all clients. They are not verified and should not be construed as testimonials or endorsements.Create Your Custom Early Retirement Strategy HereGet access to the same software I use for my clients and join the Early Retirement Academy hereAri Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence. “Early Retirement – Financial Freedom” is a podcast produced by Root Financial Partners, an SEC-registered investment adviser. The content provided is for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be interpreted as investment, legal, or tax advice. I may reference planning situations based on real client experiences, but they've been simplified for clarity. Always consult your own financial advisor before making decisions. Listening to this podcast does not create or imply an advisory relationship with Root Financial. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Testimonials and endorsements do not reflect all client experiences and are not compensated. Learn more at our website or by reviewing our Form ADV at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov.

More Americans than ever before are retiring early due to seven key factors reshaping our approach to work and retirement planning.• COVID-19 accelerated early retirements with 2.6 million more people retiring during the pandemic than expected• Average retirement age dropped from 64 in 2019 to 62 in 2022, one of the sharpest declines in decades• The FIRE movement (Financial Independence, Retire Early) has grown by 300% in searches between 2018-2023• Strong market performance created record numbers of 401(k) millionaires• Remote work flexibility enables 40% of workers to retire 2-5 years earlier than previously planned• 68% of Americans have reprioritized work-life balance with 47% willing to accept lower income for more freedom• Health concerns prompted 25% of early retirees to leave the workforce sooner than expectedAdvisory services are offered through Root Financial, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Advisory relationships are established only through a signed agreement. Any examples discussed are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes. If client experiences are referenced, no compensation was provided and their experience may not be representative of others. Viewer or listener comments shared publicly are unsolicited and do not reflect the views or experience of Root Financial. We do not verify or endorse any statements made in public forums. Root Financial does not provide tax or legal advice. Tax planning topics discussed are considered in the context of broader financial planning and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional tax or legal counsel. All investments involve risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Watching or listening to this content does not create an advisory relationship. To learn more about Root or to explore working together, please visit www.rootfinancialpartners.com. If you want help with your early retirement, reach out to Root Financial Partners or consider the Early Retirement Academy to access planning tools and resources.Create Your Custom Early Retirement Strategy HereGet access to the same software I use for my clients and join the Early Retirement Academy hereAri Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence. “Early Retirement – Financial Freedom” is a podcast produced by Root Financial Partners, an SEC-registered investment adviser. The content provided is for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be interpreted as investment, legal, or tax advice. I may reference planning situations based on real client experiences, but they've been simplified for clarity. Always consult your own financial advisor before making decisions. Listening to this podcast does not create or imply an advisory relationship with Root Financial. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Testimonials and endorsements do not reflect all client experiences and are not compensated. Learn more at our website or by reviewing our Form ADV at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov.

Tax strategy is the most overlooked aspect of financial planning, yet it could save you thousands over your lifetime by minimizing your total tax burden rather than just focusing on this year's bill.• Roth conversions let you pay taxes at potentially lower rates now to avoid higher taxes later in life• Asset location matters – keep growth investments in Roth accounts and more conservative assets in brokerage accounts• Health insurance premium planning can drastically reduce your healthcare costs through ACA subsidies• Capital gains harvesting allows married couples to realize up to $96,700 in gains tax-free each year• The standard deduction adds another $30,000 of tax-free money, meaning you could potentially generate $126,700 with zero tax liabilityIf this was helpful, please reach out at ari@rootfinancialpartners.com. If you'd like a custom strategy, you can apply to work with Root Financial Partners. For those 5-10 years from retirement, check out the Early Retirement Academy for software, courses and tools to help you prepare.Create Your Custom Early Retirement Strategy HereGet access to the same software I use for my clients and join the Early Retirement Academy hereAri Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence. “Early Retirement – Financial Freedom” is a podcast produced by Root Financial Partners, an SEC-registered investment adviser. The content provided is for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be interpreted as investment, legal, or tax advice. I may reference planning situations based on real client experiences, but they've been simplified for clarity. Always consult your own financial advisor before making decisions. Listening to this podcast does not create or imply an advisory relationship with Root Financial. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Testimonials and endorsements do not reflect all client experiences and are not compensated. Learn more at our website or by reviewing our Form ADV at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov.

What actually happens when you work with a financial advisor? At Root Financial, we've built a carefully structured team model to ensure every client gets consistent, exceptional service regardless of which advisor they're paired with.Unlike products (think identical Honda Civics or iPhones at any retailer), financial advice is inherently personal and can vary dramatically between advisors. We've solved this challenge by creating a four-person service team for every client: a Client Service Associate handling operations, an Associate Financial Advisor supporting and learning, a Lead Financial Advisor delivering personalized recommendations, and a Senior Financial Advisor providing advanced expertise while coaching the team.This structure isn't just organizational—it's the foundation of our entire client experience. When Associate Advisors take detailed notes, for example, it allows Lead Advisors to be fully present in conversations rather than documenting. As one team member put it: "Taking notes allows me to be fully present in that conversation."Rather than simply hiring "free agent" advisors with varying approaches, we've developed our own farm system. We carefully select talented professionals with the right character and potential, then develop them through our comprehensive training programs. Each advisor progresses through clearly defined levels with specific requirements—time in role, licensing, CFP designation, and successful completion of Root's investment and planning curricula.The goal? Creating advisors who've "learned the rules like a pro so they can break them like an artist." This Picasso-inspired philosophy means our team masters the fundamentals, then adapts them creatively to help clients optimize not just for wealth, but for a life well-lived.This behind-the-scenes structure might seem technical, but it's precisely what allows us to deliver consistent excellence. When you work with Root, you're not just getting one advisor—you're getting an entire team crafted to ensure your experience reflects our core belief: money should be a tool for getting the most out of life.Want to discover if our approach aligns with your needs? Visit rootfinancial.com and click "see if we're a fit" to start the conversation.Create Your Custom Early Retirement Strategy HereGet access to the same software I use for my clients and join the Early Retirement Academy hereAri Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence. “Early Retirement – Financial Freedom” is a podcast produced by Root Financial Partners, an SEC-registered investment adviser. The content provided is for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be interpreted as investment, legal, or tax advice. I may reference planning situations based on real client experiences, but they've been simplified for clarity. Always consult your own financial advisor before making decisions. Listening to this podcast does not create or imply an advisory relationship with Root Financial. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Testimonials and endorsements do not reflect all client experiences and are not compensated. Learn more at our website or by reviewing our Form ADV at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov.

Retirement anxiety is normal and healthy, even for people with solid financial plans—it shows you're taking your future seriously and want to make thoughtful decisions about your life transition.• Understanding why retirement worry is natural despite having financial security• How joining a retirement community can provide perspective and reduce anxiety• Balancing financial needs with personal purpose and meaningful activities• Learning to differentiate between necessary caution and excessive worry • Finding comfort in flexibility and dynamic planning during market changes• Recognizing that uncertainty is normal in major life transitions• Defining your personal measures of retirement success rather than comparing to others• Taking action by exploring new ideas from peers rather than just passively consuming contentJoin our free retirement planning community to connect with others navigating the same challenges and discover new strategies to improve your retirement confidence.Create Your Custom Early Retirement Strategy HereGet access to the same software I use for my clients and join the Early Retirement Academy hereAri Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence. “Early Retirement – Financial Freedom” is a podcast produced by Root Financial Partners, an SEC-registered investment adviser. The content provided is for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be interpreted as investment, legal, or tax advice. I may reference planning situations based on real client experiences, but they've been simplified for clarity. Always consult your own financial advisor before making decisions. Listening to this podcast does not create or imply an advisory relationship with Root Financial. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Testimonials and endorsements do not reflect all client experiences and are not compensated. Learn more at our website or by reviewing our Form ADV at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov.