Virtual US Financial Advisor

Join host Hannah Mitrea on the Virtual US Financial Advisor podcast as she welcomes Cary Carbonaro, a certified, award-winning financial advisor, and a “women and wealth expert”. Our guest is dedicated to guiding women in financial planning. 

In this episode, Cary shares her journey from founding a sorority in college to facing personal and professional challenges. She talks about how societal norms often deter women from taking control of their finances and the key moments that shaped her financial perspective.

Cary dives into financial literacy essentials, like budgeting and understanding net worth. She asks, "Are you aware of what's coming in and going out each month?" and stresses the importance of knowing your assets and liabilities.

Here are the top-must-listen takeaways from the podcast: 

(6:02) Why aren't more women financially empowered? 

(7:52) The power of preemptive financial planning 

(9:31) When should financial experts be consulted

(12:20) Are you tracking what comes in and out?

(16:24) The need for nationwide financial literacy

(19:20) Is your financial planner acting in your best interest?

Discover the pitfalls that busy individuals face in neglecting financial plans and how a dedicated advisor can make a difference. Cary questions, "Do you know your credit score and why it's important?" and emphasizes the crucial role of personal responsibility in financial independence. 

Tune in for an engaging conversation that demystifies finance and encourages you to manage your future confidently.

About Cary Carbonaro

Cary Carbonaro is a Certified Financial Planner with over 25 years of experience, including prestigious roles at JP Morgan Chase, Citibank, and Lord Abbett Investment. Recognized as a 2016 Investment News Woman to Watch and a CFP Board Ambassador, Cary is known for her dedication to financial literacy and advocacy. As a leading financial educator and influencer, she has been featured across various media platforms and has spoken globally on financial literacy. As a trusted advisor, Cary is committed to guiding clients through the complexities of private wealth management.

Contact Cary Today! 

When Jim Barnash stepped into the insurance world, he quickly understood that whole life insurance wasn’t the complete financial solution many needed. This insight led him to the financial planning sector.

He saw a big gap. Many people were only relying on accountants for tax work, creating a disconnect in their financial plans. Unwilling to let this stand, Jim reintegrated tax planning into his practice in 2016, making a significant difference for many individuals.

Jim uses a simple analogy of three buckets to explain different categories of income. He highlights the importance of understanding these categories, especially when planning for retirement. He talks about Roth 401(k) contributions and Roth conversions as ways to enhance tax-free income.

Here are the top-must-listen takeaways from the podcast: 

(4:31) Are You Getting the Right Tax Advice?

(6:27) Are Your Taxes Tied Together?

(7:22) Navigating the Three Buckets of Income

(10:43) Is Roth 401(K) the Right Choice for You?

(13:52) The Roth Dilemma: Higher Taxes Now?

(23:06) Avoiding the Pitfalls of Portfolio Overlap

(25:51) Breaking the Myths of Financial Planning

(26:33) The Snowball Effect of a 401(K)

Today, Jim Barnash is the president of JA Barnash and Associates. He’s committed to providing a comprehensive and tailored financial strategy for his clients, helping them retain more of their income and achieve their financial goals.

Hear from Jim as he shares his journey and insights into financial and tax planning and how understanding different categories of income can lead to optimized financial outcomes.

About Jim Barnash, CFP®

Jim Barnash's journey is a story of passion and expertise in financial planning and tax solutions. Starting his career with Equitable Life Insurance, he quickly realized the need for comprehensive financial planning and tax solutions. Now, as the Founder of JA Barnash & Associates, Jim is all about helping individuals, couples, and closely held business owners put together the pieces of their financial puzzle for over 30 years. 

Navigating the intricate world of financial planning, Mark Newfield highlights the crucial need for a well-laid-out plan. Without it, investment management lacks significance. He observes that the world of financial advising has its complexities, with many being unclear about the real role of financial advisors.

Mark believes in a process-driven approach to financial planning. He understands the value of mapping out an individual's financial journey, taking into account their past, present, and desired future. This perspective is shaped, in part, by Mark's personal journey from a successful corporate life to starting his own business at the age of 46.

While Mark can't transform the entire financial world's views, he chooses to do things his way. He focuses on understanding his clients' financial vision, ensuring they are adequately saving for their future without unnecessary restrictions. Mark's approach, combined with his emphasis on loyalty and the importance of a trusting relationship with a financial advisor, plays a key role in his success.

Today, Mark Newfield, CFP® and RICP®, serves as the Managing Director and wealth management advisor at Journey Strategic Wealth. His team is dedicated to understanding and guiding their clients' financial futures. 

Here are the top-must-listen takeaways from the podcast: 

(0:48) Is investing enough without a plan? 

(1:56) What really is financial planning?

(3:55) Is your financial journey intentional?

(5:54) How to begin your financial journey?

(10:55) The crossroads: personal vs. professional life

(16:31) Why withdrawing in a downturn hurts

(19:33) How investment timing affects returns

(24:16) Can financial plans truly be static?

(26:15) How often should you change financial advisors?

(30:20) Why loyalty matters in financial services

(33:11) What should we look for in a financial advisor?

(38:23) Books every financial enthusiast should read

Join us on the "Virtual US Financial Advisor" podcast as Mark shares insights from his journey and his perspective on creating an effective financial roadmap. Dive deeper into the financial world with us, where we bring you industry leaders and their transformative stories

Mark Newfield's journey is a blend of hands-on experience and expert advice. From an auto mechanic and retail store manager to a consultant at Accenture to the founding of his own financial planning firm (which is now a part of Journey Strategic Wealth), Mark has always been about guiding and fixing. Today, he leads his division at JSW, ensuring his team offers the best care and value to their clients.

Join us in this episode of the Virtual US Financial Advisor podcast as we explore the essentials of estate planning with Chris Wilbur, Founder and President of Soteria Wealth Advisors. Our guest provides a comprehensive overview of the key components of estate planning, emphasizing that it's not just for the wealthy but for everyone!

We discuss the differences between wills and trusts, understanding how each serves a unique purpose in managing your assets. Chris explains how trusts can be a game-changer in avoiding the probate process, a legal procedure that can be time-consuming and stressful for your loved ones.

The episode also covers the critical role of life insurance in protecting your family's future. Chris shares insights on beneficiary designations, ensuring your life insurance benefits go exactly where you intend. We also explore the differences between revocable and irrevocable trusts, understanding their implications and how they fit into your estate plan.

Chris Wilbur sheds light on the critical need for assigning financial and medical decision-making powers through legal documents, and establishing who will care for children if the need arises, emphasizing these steps for parental peace of mind. He stresses the need for clear decisions to ensure your wishes are respected and your loved ones are cared for.

Here are the top-must-listen takeaways from the podcast: 

(3:50) Are your assets ready for the unexpected? 

(4:35) What really counts as your estate? 

(5:24) What is probate, and why does it matter? 

(7:14) What is ancillary probate? 

(8:23) How does a trust complement a will?

(10:22) Do you need life insurance for family security?

(12:21) Revocable vs. irrevocable trusts: what's the difference? 

(15:07) How do durable and healthcare powers of attorney differ?

(18:51) What's involved in guardianship designation?

For a comprehensive guide on starting your estate planning journey, listen to this episode with Chris Wilbur. Estate planning is an essential step for everyone, regardless of your financial status.

About Chris Wilbur

Chris Wilbur, the Founder and President of Soteria Wealth Advisors, brings over a decade of experience in the financial industry to his hometown of Austin, TX. With a career that began in a hybrid insurance and investment brokerage firm, Chris has developed a keen focus on protecting individuals from life's uncertainties, such as disability or premature death, ensuring they have a robust risk management plan. 

His decision to establish Soteria Wealth Advisors was driven by his commitment to guiding clients toward financial security. Chris believes in the power of choice in financial planning and prioritizes building lasting relationships with clients to effectively support their wealth growth, preservation, and the pursuit of their aspirations.

Contact Chris Today! 

Welcome to this episode of "Virtual US Financial Advisor," where our host, Hannah Mitrea, engages in a conversation with Philip H. Weiss, CFA, CPA, RLP® & Founder of Apprise Wealth Management.

Our guest takes us from his early struggles with family finances to his dedication to helping others achieve financial security. He shares how personal challenges shaped his approach to wealth management, emphasizing the need for financial education and empowerment, particularly for women.

Phil breaks down the 50/30/20 rule, offering a simple yet effective framework for budgeting. But he doesn't stop there; he introduces us to the "EVOKE" method, a deeper dive into life planning that connects financial choices with personal fulfillment. The conversation then turns to the risks and rewards of investing, where Phil advocates for a balanced strategy that supports long-term goals.

The selection of a financial advisor is another key topic. Phil outlines what to look for in an advisor, stressing the importance of finding someone who truly understands your financial journey and aspirations. He also tackles the often-overlooked aspect of tax planning, highlighting strategies like Roth conversions that can make a significant impact over time.

Here are the top-must-listen takeaways from the episode: 

(6:21) The 50/30/20 rule: Balancing needs, wants, and savings 

(11:42) What does effective life planning entail

(14:32) The power of a vision statement

(21:29) How to incorporate your passions into financial planning

(22:36) The real cost of chasing the market in investments

(24:40) The kit for DIY financial management

(25:11) How to find a financial advisor you can trust

(29:36) Why start tax planning early in the year

Join us as Phil Weiss blends personal anecdotes with actionable financial advice, encouraging us to think critically about our financial paths. This episode is more than just tips on managing money; it's about aligning financial decisions with what matters most in life. 

Ready to take control of your financial future with a new perspective? Tune in now! 

About Phil Weiss

Phil Weiss, founder of Apprise Wealth Management, began his career in 1987 as a tax professional at Deloitte & Touche. With over 25 years in personal finance and investment management, he holds CFA, CPA, and RLP® credentials. Phil has contributed as a media spokesperson, written market commentaries, and frequently participates in podcasts. He blogs regularly for Apprise, focusing on long-term investment strategies. Phil launched his RIA to specialize in financial planning for women facing new beginnings. He holds a BS in Accounting from Rutgers University and studied Psychology at Duke University.

Contact Phil Today! 

Join Hannah Mitrea on the Virtual US Financial Advisor podcast for an enlightening conversation with Dr. April Murdaugh, CEO of Woman To Woman Financial. Our guest shares her personal story of overcoming financial hurdles and the importance of financial education, especially for women. This episode covers women's unique challenges in the finance sector and the need for empathetic advising.

Delving into why financial education is foundational for success, Dr. April emphasizes creating a learning space free from shame or preconceptions. She addresses transforming financial fear into mastery and empowering women in their financial decisions.

The discussion also offers insights into turning complex financial scenarios into clear, achievable goals, reevaluating spending patterns for a debt-free lifestyle, and tailoring strategies to individual retirement dreams.

Here are the top-must-listen takeaways from the podcast:

(5:04) Why is financial education the first step to success?

(8:31) The journey from financial fear to mastery

(10:05) Turning complex finances into achievable goals

(12:51) Is your spending pattern the culprit of financial stress?

(21:20) What does your ideal financial lifestyle look like?

(25:34) Why should teenagers start investing with just $50?

Listen to the episode to explore Dr. April's thoughtful question, "What does your ideal financial lifestyle look like, and how can we plan for it?" and to navigate the world of personal finance with clarity and confidence.

About Dr. April Murdaugh

Dr. April Murdaugh is the CEO of Woman To Woman Financial, which is dedicated to guiding women executives and business owners toward financial confidence. With her comprehensive approach to financial education and empowerment, she focuses on helping her clients build and manage their financial futures.

A respected former college administrator and professor, Dr. April is actively involved in leadership roles within the Jacksonville business community. Her accolades include being named the 2020 Small Business Leader of the Year by the Professional Women's Council of the Jax Chamber.

Contact Dr. April Today! 

How do you make sure your business exit is a success? 

We discussed this important question and more in this episode of the Virtual US Financial Advisor Podcast with Ray Croff, CEO of Mobius Financial Advisors.

Ray Croff talks about how important your team is when you plan to leave your business. He explains that the people who work for you can really affect how much your business is worth when you sell it. Ray also discusses why having good business processes is key. These processes help your business work better and look more appealing to people who might want to buy it.

Remember, the key to maximizing your business value is to think like a buyer. Looking from the outside and having a bird's eye view of your business is how you are going to get a holistic picture and make the necessary improvements. 

He also covers the need to prepare your business to run without you. Ray shares ideas on moving from a business that depends a lot on its founder to one where a strong management team can take charge, keeping the business going strong.

Here are the top-must-listen takeaways from the podcast: 

(6:39) How do key employees influence sale price?

(7:57) Is your business too dependent on you?

(10:04) What makes employees stick around? 

(11:34) Preparing your business for a profitable exit 

(16:29) Transitioning from founder to new leadership

(19:21) The importance of periodic valuations

(21:23) De-risking your business for better offers 

For a deep look at how to plan your exit and make your business worth more, listen to this episode. Our guest offers plenty of valuable advice that can assist you with your plans to leave your business. And remember exit planning and making crucial business decisions isn't just for those nearing retirement – it's a strategy that should be considered early on.

About Ray Croff

Ray Croff is the CEO and President of Mobius Financial Advisors, bringing over 15 years of experience as a business owner, where he managed employees, equipment, and real estate. He holds degrees in Financial Services and Insurance from the University of North Texas. Ray is also a Certified Exit Planning Advisor and a Certified Value Growth Advisor. 

Additionally, he serves as an Adjunct Professor at the University of North Texas. His extensive background, combined with his deep understanding of financial services, makes him exceptionally skilled in advising business owners and their families.

Contact Ray Today! 

LinkedIn:

Discover Morgen Rochard's captivating journey from a pre-med student to a successful financial advisor and Bitcoin enthusiast in our latest Virtual U.S. Financial Advisor podcast episode. Rochard takes us through her career, life planning, and the ever-evolving world of Bitcoin.

As a passionate advocate for financial planning and education, she shares valuable insights into how a deeper understanding of money can help make informed decisions about Bitcoin and other financial assets.

In this thought-provoking episode, Morgen Rochard discusses the nature of money and how Bitcoin could potentially revolutionize the financial world. With its static monetary policy and finite supply, Bitcoin presents a promising alternative to traditional currencies. But what does the future hold for Bitcoin, and will it eventually replace traditional currencies?

Find out what sets Bitcoin apart from other cryptocurrencies and learn about the advantages of self-custody with various wallet types. Explore how innovative companies are bridging the gap between Bitcoin and traditional financial services, making the use of cryptocurrencies more accessible and secure. Finally, delve into cryptocurrencies' taxation and monetary policies, with expert advice on allocation and resources for further learning.

Here are the top-must-listen takeaways from the podcast: 

(9:19) Financial planning and its personalization based on priorities

(13:36) The difference between embracing and rejecting bitcoin

(15:07) Understanding bitcoin subdivisions: what are Satoshis?

(19:08) Revisiting our understanding of money and exploring its complexities 

(19:58) The importance of long-term financial planning

(20:43) What is the inevitable impact of inflation on your money?

(27:17) What happens when all bitcoin is created?

(39:55) Tax implications of buying and holding bitcoin

Don't miss this exciting episode that offers valuable insights into the relationship between money, Bitcoin, and financial planning. Listen now to expand your knowledge and start thinking about the future of money.

About Morgen

Kyle Beckhusen joins us in our recent Virtual U.S. Financial Advisors podcast episode. He started his college career in engineering but switched to a major in finance after realizing his passion for numbers and people. Kyle interned with a Fortune 500 company for two years, which then led to a job as a financial representative selling life and disability insurance. He then went on to pursue his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNING™ designation and, with over a decade of experience, is now a  Senior Financial Advisor at Kathleen S Wright Associates Inc.

In our conversation with Kyle Beckhusen, he explains the Roth IRA and Backdoor Roth IRA, and how they differ in terms of income eligibility. A Roth IRA is a retirement account where you can invest money after you've paid taxes on it, and you can withdraw the money tax-free in retirement.

However, there are income limits that determine who can contribute to a Roth IRA directly. The income phaseouts for 2023 Roth IRA contributions are $138K-$153K for single filers and $218K-$228K for married couples filing jointly. In such cases, Kyle recommends using the Backdoor Roth IRA method if you are above those thresholds.

Furthermore, Kyle tells us that the Backdoor Roth IRA method is actually a legal loophole in the tax code. The method allows individuals above the income limits to contribute indirectly to a Roth IRA..by contributing to a non-deductible traditional IRA first and then converting that contribution to the Roth IRA.  The annual contribution limit for 2023 is $6,500.

Tune in to our podcast episode with Kyle Beckhusen and discover how you can make the most of your investments with his expert advice on Roth IRAs and backdoor Roth IRAs.

Key Takeaways:

(5:13) How Roth IRA can help you keep Uncle Sam out of your savings
(8:52) How to Pull Out Money Early with No Penalties and No Taxes
(10:19) How to Save for Retirement without Changing Your Lifestyle
(17:25) Traditional IRA vs. Roth IRA: Why Converting Could Save You Thousands in Taxes
(18:56) The Tax-Free Way to Grow Your Money
(25:14) Maximize your child's financial future with a Roth IRA

Navigating finances can be tough, and Roth IRA rules can be tricky. That's why Kyle recommends teaming up with a financial advisor or tax pro to make sure you're playing by the book. Don't sweat the details alone, get some expert guidance and make the most of your investments!

About Kyle

Kyle Beckhusen is a CFP® and Chartered Life Underwriter who was featured in the Top 100 People in Finance Magazine in 2022. Originally from upstate NY, Kyle relocated to Western Pennsylvania after attending Geneva College in Beaver Falls. He enjoys staying active by running races, doing triathlons, and playing pickup sports.

Additionally, he is an elder in his local church and loves spending time with his wife and three children. He is an experienced financial advisor with extensive knowledge about ROTH IRAs and other financial matters. His expertise and familiarity with these topics make him an ideal choice for those seeking financial advice.

Reach out to Kyle through website:

www.kswrightassociates.com

In our recent episode of the Virtual U.S. Financial Advisors podcast, we feature Jessica Medina, a former lawyer who became a successful accredited financial counselor. Jessica shares her background in law and regulation and how it has shaped her approach to financial counseling. She highlights the importance of being well-trained and adhering to ethical standards in the field.

The guest delves into the emotional aspect of money, particularly in relation to student loan debt. Jessica stresses the significance of understanding the nature of student loan debt, as it can greatly impact lawyers' careers and financial stability. She emphasizes that not all student loan debt is equal and encourages clients to understand the different types of loans they have and the available strategies for managing them.

To achieve financial awareness and create a personalized financial plan for clients, Jessica places great emphasis on building financial literacy, paying off student loans, and managing other debt. She encourages clients to take control of their finances and create a plan that works for them.

Our guest leaves the listeners with a very important question that every salaried individual must ask themselves. She asks, “If you had better control over your finances, would your credit card bill be as high if you paid it off every month?” The best way to achieve financial freedom is to reflect on your situation and take measures to improve!

Key Takeaways:

(01:37) Jessica's inspiring career transformation

(2:50) Transitioning into a new career path: challenges and opportunities

(8:06) Discover what it takes to become an accredited financial counselor

(9:21) Gain valuable insights into the role of an accredited coach

(13:45) Get a fresh perspective on how to view finances

(17:47) How to think about debt and finance differently?

(20:13) How can private loans be a burden for students?

(24:21) A critical question for salaried people

(26:03) Invest in your financial future with foresight

About Jessica

Jessica Medina is a dynamic and inspiring individual who has transformed her career from a successful lawyer to an Accredited Financial Counselor®. With over 14 years of experience in the DC metro area, Jessica's passion for helping others led her to pursue her true calling in financial coaching. A single mom of twins, she faced the challenges of managing her finances while balancing her demanding job at a law firm. But her determination and drive to create a better future for her family pushed her to achieve financial stability and retire from her legal career.

With the support of the Accredited Financial Counselor® training and examination, Jessica has broadened her knowledge and expertise in the field of personal finance. Today, she works closely with her clients, guiding them on their personal financial journeys and tailoring her advice to their unique circumstances.

You can reach out to her via her website:

Christine Teh joins us in our recent Virtual U.S. Financial Advisors podcast episode. She is a financial coach, an IRS Enrolled Agent (EA)​, and a Certified Money Coach (CMC)®. Christine provides one-on-one personalized coaching. In addition, she is offering an online budgeting course to get you started on taking charge of your finances.

Our guest talks extensively about the importance of budgeting and how it is not just to track your finances or perhaps for data entry but for you to take charge and ownership of your money. After all, everyone wants to get out of the loophole of living paycheck to paycheck. So, by staying organized and having a clear budget, you will be able to define your financial freedom.

Every one of us is familiar with the term “advisor”. However, upon identifying a huge vacuum in the financial space, Christine decided to become a “financial Coach”. She not only helps you manage your money but also goes down to a deeper level and explores your emotions.

That’s because your financial position or “money matters” cannot be analyzed without understanding how your life is structured around it. And this is how she provides an incredibly valuable service that is not only practical but meaningful to your own personal growth.

Tune in to the episode to learn more about why it is crucial to remain cash flow positive and how you can diversify your investments. Plus, why should you get investment education to understand and tackle your finances independently?

Christine Talks About:
(2:03) How to have a good relationship with money?
(3:29) What problem is Christine solving for her clients?
(5:14) What does financial freedom looks like?
(6:28) Balancing work and life
(7:37) What is a financial coach?
(8:54) The example of the insurance client
(11:35) Building the budget
(13:41) The subconscious behavior
(14:50) Creating a positive energy field for money
(17:07) How to break out from the loop of living paycheck to paycheck?
(19:18) Track everything and use excel sheets
(20:32) Christine’s Financial Literacy course
(24:20) Practice decision-making to be in control of your money
(25:10) Become cash flow positive to build more wealth
(29:55) When should someone start working with a financial coach?

About Christine

Teh observed that most advisors in the market either sell life insurance because of the large commissions they receive or need a certain amount of investable assets to succeed. She recognized the need for someone who could truly teach the principles of how to manage finances and help a person be in control of their money on their own, regardless of portfolio size. Her motivation was to become a finance and money coach. She quit her job and began her journey in 2016. Christine’s dream is to help everyone achieve financial freedom.

You can reach out to her via her website:

Josh Patrick joins us in our recent Virtual U.S. Financial Advisors podcast episode. He is the author and CEO of Stage 2 Planning. He is also the founder of “The Sustainable Business”. All of the services are aimed at helping business owners through hurdles and challenges while creating personalized financial plans to keep their money on track and helping them through the transitions in life. 

The common problem within the business community is the idea of what financial independence means and how owners are going to achieve it and retire. In addition, the actual retirement planning is left to later stages of life, as at the beginning, the hustle is entirely about growth and expansion.

To address these problems and help business owners get the right financial independence, Josh has introduced a crucial tool that he calls “The four boxes of financial independence”. The model helps owners value their business correctly and have a well-thought-out retirement plan.

The first step of the four-box model is to analyze the value of the business after tax. This helps greatly in step two, which is to prepare a detailed cash flow and savings plan. Box three is about how much business-related real estate the business owner has. So, when people close their businesses or move on, they don’t have to sell the real estate. Instead, they can keep it. Lastly, the fourth box is other investments you may save outside a qualified plan.

According to Josh, if young business leaders reflect upon their life and business as a whole and start preparing for retirement right when they begin with a venture, they will have an extremely smooth journey leading to retirement.

Tune in to the episode to know why your business should be a cash-generating machine and what investment opportunities you must seek to plan better for your retirement.

Josh Talks About:
(5:58) The common problem that business owners face
(11:49) Retirement plan conversations
(12:35) Recommendation for the younger generation regarding savings
(16:22) Split and save for future
(17:20) Planning retirement & the stock market
(22:31) Four boxes of financial independence
(26:16) Your business should be a cash-generating machine
(28:37) Importance of understanding business owner's mindset
(30:11) Scenario planning for business

About Josh

Josh has been a part of the business world for about 45 years. He started his first company in 1976 at the age of 24. Josh bought a small operation from his father, which was a vending and food service company. They fed people who worked in factories for over the next 20 years. The business grew from 1 part-time person to 90 full-time employees.

After selling the business in 1995, he then went into the insurance business in 1996. He realized that business owners needed more than life insurance. So, that is when he opened up a wealth management firm. He has experience working with people in the blue-collar business world for the last 25 years. Today he works with people in the construction industry, specifically subcontractors and home builders.

You can reach out to him via his website:

Peter Lazaroff joins us in our recent Virtual U.S. Financial Advisors podcast episode. He is the Chief Investment Officer for both Plancorp and BrightPlan. Peter simplifies the complexities of investing and personal finance, helping people make smart financial decisions. In addition, he plays a key role in developing and communicating the firm’s investment strategy.

He gives us his insights regarding the current market situation. Peter explains how we are in the midst of a bear market and what strategies we can use to make profitable investments. Just because we’re in the middle of a bear market doesn’t mean that the stock market will continue to decline. In fact, there’s a good chance that it will start to rebound eventually. So don’t sell your stocks if the market takes a downturn – it’s likely just a temporary blip on the radar.

In addition, he gives us his remarks about uncertainty and why there is a direct relationship between temporary losses and higher expected returns. After Covid hit in 2020, there was a major fluctuation in the global economy. According to Peter, we are still experiencing the shock waves. From here, he gives his analysis regarding long-horizon, investing in market peaks, and how this will result in decent returns.

Stock market volatility refers to price fluctuations that can occur when investing. When prices are volatile, it can be difficult to predict what will happen next. This can lead to temporary losses, but it can also lead to a higher expected return over time.

When asked about what is described as a better investment? Peter answers that every investment decision and its result is dependent upon the horizon. Moreover, he prefers that investments must be kept diversified. In simple words, buying individual bonds or stocks is not the ultimate recipe for success.

Tune in to the episode to know what else the host of “The Long Term Investor Podcast”, and a certified financial planner have to share.


Peter Talks About:
(4:55)  What is the current market condition?
(5:57)  How do temporary losses lead to a higher expected return?
(6:17)  Why is living through a bear market important?
(9:28)  When is the right time to invest in the stock market?
(13:48)  What are some useful investment recommendations?
(16:29)  What are the red flags in a bear market?
(22:36)  Why should we invest in a financial advisor?

More About Peter

Peter regularly contributes to The Wall Street Journal and Forbes. His goal at Plancorp is to help people get their entire financial house in order through comprehensive wealth management and financial planning. He is the author of “Making Money Simple”.

Hello and welcome to the Virtual U.S. Financial Advisors podcast. Today’s episode is the last of an 8-part series featuring our guest, Matt Di Francesco

Matt DiFrancesco is the Founder, Principal, and Member of High Lift Financial, a registered investment advisory firm. He is also the host of the Your Business, Your Life podcast

Join us today as Matt talks about the other elements of the Financial Assessment Form he provides for his clients.

He also talks about:

• (01:32) What are the ways to help protect assets
• (04:01) The advantages of creating separate business entities under one umbrella
• (08:57) Why you need to start to define what’s really important to you
• (10:08) The purpose of having assessments
• (12:04) What keeps him awake at night

Hello and welcome to the Virtual U.S. Financial Advisors podcast. We’re now down to the last 2 parts of this series. Our guest, Matt DiFrancesco talks about his financial assessment process and shares insights on what financial advisors do.

Matt DiFrancesco is the Founder, Principal, and Member of High Lift Financial, a registered investment advisory firm. He is also the host of the Your Business, Your Life podcast

Join us today as Matt talks about what to look for in a financial advisor.

He also talks about:

• (02:13) Why the financial industry gets a bit of a bad name
• (02:42) Questions you need to ask if you’re looking for an advisor
• (05:43) What being a fiduciary means
• (06:53) Why he believes that majority of the things he does as an advisor is more psychological than anything else
• (07:06) The three criteria he looks for in clients

Hello and welcome to the Virtual U.S. Financial Advisors podcast. In this sixth installment of our 8-part of our series, our guest, Matt DiFrancesco talks about his financial assessment process and shares some stories from some of his clients.

Matt DiFrancesco is the Founder, Principal, and Member of High Lift Financial. He’s been in the financial services business for 16 years and is committed to helping small to mid-sized business owners navigate through the critical financial event in their lives.

Join us today as Matt talks about what could happen if the next generation of the family is not interested in running the business.

He also talks about:

• (01:29) How to work with key team members when it comes to business considerations and income needs.
• (06:08) How to keep a business functioning in the event of the owner’s death or disability
• (06:58) What is a buy-sell agreement
• (12:44) The advantage of having plans in place in case a spouse dies
• (08:53) The value of having the foresight

Hello and welcome to the Virtual U.S. Financial Advisors podcast. In this fifth part of our series, our guest, Matt DiFrancesco goes in-depth as he discusses his financial assessment process and shares some insights on family considerations and succession planning.

Matt DiFrancesco is the Founder, Principal, and Member of High Lift Financial. His current focus is in the automotive repair/collision space, but he also works with a number of different family businesses out there.

Join us today as Matt discusses the value of having the family involved in planning for the future of the business and why family meetings are vital.

He also talks about:

• (03:30) The first step in planning for the family business succession
• (04:44) Why does he prefer the founders of these family businesses to share their story
• (06:23) The importance of finding out what your child’s passion and interest are
• (07:09) The steps to take to encourage the child to learn how to take over the business
• (08:53) How to overcome situations where the next generation has no interest in taking over the business

In the latest Virtual U.S. Financial Advisors podcast episode, Hannah Mitrea is joined by Julie Murphy CLU, ChFC, CFP®. Julie is an independent Certified Financial Planner™, author, and media expert. She is the author of “Awaken Your Wealth”, a #1 Amazon bestseller in several categories.

Rather than brushing problems under the carpet or fixing them on the outside, Julie discusses how to solve them on the inside. She highlights that the key to successful problem-solving is persistence and patience. You have to be willing to keep trying until you find a solution, and you have to be willing to take your time and do things the right way.

She also discusses that by aligning your mind and body, you will be able to create a neutral space that will help you make better decisions. There are many temptations to spend money unnecessarily, and it can be difficult to stick to a budget. But, if you want to be successful with your finances, it is important to be proactive rather than reactive.

Furthermore, she talks about letting go of the past, including the financial past, such as your debts, because if you continue to do so, you are likely to end up with the same outcome in the future. Markets change, interest rates fluctuate, and what might have been a good decision yesterday might not be the best choice today. It's important to be flexible and ready to adapt as needed.

Tune in now to know why should you should throw away the balance sheet and start a cash flow instead.

Julie Talks About:
(05:07) Are you putting positive energy into your life?
(11:11) You can never solve anything until you solve it from the inside
(12:40) Why should you picture exactly what you want?
(15:54) The necessity of creating a neutral space
(13:34) What is subconscious patterning?
(20:55)  How is financial reactivity different than being proactive?
(23:22) Why should we keep an eye on the future?
(31:04) The importance of accepting the reality that you have created
(40:01) The benefit of following your intuition


More About Julie

Gabriel Shahin joins us in our recent Virtual U.S. Financial Advisors podcast episode. He is the Principal and Founder of Falcon Wealth Planning. Our guest has extensive experience in advanced tax planning, portfolio analysis, and investment management and has helped families and individuals reach their financial goals since 2003.

He is on a quest to create a firm that can cater to all aspects of wealth planning, Wealth Management, wealth accumulation, and wealth retention. He talks about how taxes are the biggest expense to the clients. In addition, he discusses why it’s crucial to save money and why cash is king for a business owner.

According to Gabriel, your taxes have to be done right. It is crucial to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced firm. In addition, high-net-worth individuals have too many moving parts that are a part of their wealth. So, it’s important to have a team that has different experts. It is all about the mentality shift, to look at spending money as making money in the long-term. Moreover, he gives us insights regarding different tax-reducing strategies that can be used in quarters 3 and 4.

Tune in to the episode to know what else Gabriel shares in taxes and overall wealth management.

Gabriel Talks About:
(1:01) What are the biggest expenses to the clients?
(5:47) Should you get a CPA or a CFA?
(11:32) The two types of tax planning strategies
(18:17) How the stock market is a hedge against inflation?
(19:54) The importance of looking at the quarterly rebounds and rebalancing
(22:23) Advice on short-term capital gains
(28:08) Where can a business cut costs to save money on taxes?

More About Gabriel

Before founding Falcon Wealth Planning, Gabriel served as an Investment Consultant specializing in asset guidance for high-net-worth individuals at TD Ameritrade. He also held his FINRA Series 7 and 66 licenses before working with a fee-only advisory firm. Gabriel received his Bachelor’s of Science degree in Business from the WP Carey School of Business at Arizona State University and his Master’s from the University of Massachusetts.

Hi everyone and welcome to the Virtual U.S. Financial Advisors podcast. We are now halfway through this eight-part series, where our guest, Matt DiFrancesco talks about his financial assessment process and shares why culture is vital and how it contributes to increasing the value of any business.

Matt DiFrancesco is the Founder, Principal, and Member of High Lift Financial. He focuses on helping small to mid-sized family businesses navigate through the intricacies of running that business.  He is also the host of the Your Business, Your Life podcast.

Join us today as Matt discusses succession development and employee retention.

He also talks about:

• (02:06) The importance of building culture within the business
• (05:38) Why transparency matters in employee retention
• (10:51) What is the biggest reason for dysfunction in a team?
• (17:17) What true leadership means
• (19:01) One of the greatest leadership books he has ever read

Hello and thank you for tuning in to the Virtual U.S. Financial Advisors podcast. For part 3 of this eight-part series, Matt DiFrancesco walks us through his financial assessment process and discusses the importance of identifying exit objectives for the family business.

Matt DiFrancesco is the Founder, Principal, and Member of High Lift Financial. He has been in financial services for the last 16 years.  Although his focus is mainly on businesses within the automotive collision space, he’s also working with a number of small to mid-sized family businesses out there.

Join us today as Matt talks about exit plans and value drivers.

He also talks about:

• (04:37) What is a value drivers report
• (07:20) How to use the value drivers report to help drive the value of the business up
• (09:33) Could the same exit planning concept be applied to serial entrepreneurs  nn
• (10:51) The key things to focus on in an exit objective
• (19:51) Why building a sound financial plan takes a collaborative effort

Get a copy of Matt’s one-page assessment chart here: https://bit.ly/3tVosaq

Welcome to the Virtual U.S. Financial Advisors podcast. This week, we are going to share the 2nd part of an eight-part series where Matt DiFrancesco goes into the details of the financial assessment process that he goes through with his clients.

Matt DiFrancesco is the Founder, Principal, and Member of High Lift Financial, a full-service RIA financial firm that specializes in working with small to mid-sized family businesses.

Join us today as Matt discusses why some business owners consider the maximum price/minimal taxes as one of their top financial concerns, and why is it important to have a basic valuation for your business.

He also talks about:

• (04:17) What is a basic business valuation for?
• (07:20) What are the things to look at to help gauge a business’ value
• (10:51) What a retirement plan does
• (14:04) When is a good time to start planning for your exit
• (15:31) Why Matt considers himself as a “financial quarterback”

Get a copy of Matt’s one-page assessment chart here: https://bit.ly/3tVosaq

Hello everyone and welcome to the Virtual U.S. Financial Advisors podcast. In our business, we work with a lot of financial advisors.  And one of the things we realized is that the average person lacks knowledge about who financial advisors are and what they actually do, and whether they ever need to hire one.

The goal of this podcast is to help consumers have a better grasp of what financial advisors are for and understand the importance of having a trusted person to help them plan their finances.

Our very first guest is Matt DiFrancesco from High Lift Financial, a full-service RIA financial firm that specializes in working with family businesses. Join us as he walks us through the assessment process he uses to identify his client’s major wants, needs, and concerns.

Today’s episode is the first of an eight-part series where Matt talks about why having a written continuity plan is crucial for every business.

He also talks about:

• (01:26) The approach that has given financial advisors a bad name
• (08:41) His vision statement
• (13:27) What is a written continuity plan
• (22:10) How long does it take to create a business continuity plan
• (23:55) Why does he prefer to go for a retainer model?