Épisodes

  • Balancing Budgets While Becoming a Dad: Diary of a Financial Advisor
    Jan 30 2025
    Welcome back to Don't Retire... Graduate!: the podcast that invites you to rethink what retirement really means. In our Diary of a Financial Advisor segment, I, Eric Brotman, interview financial advisors about their professional journeys and their dedication to aiding others in their financial success. Today, we are lucky enough to be joined by BFG's own Cody Niedermeier before he begins his paternity leave. In this episode, Cody and I explore the various considerations involved in planning for a family from the perspective of a financial advisor. Cody opens up about his own journey, sharing that he and his wife are expecting their first child. We discuss the practical changes needed in the home and adjustments to the family budget, emphasizing the costly nature of raising children. Cody provides insights into how his professional life has equipped him to tackle personal financial planning for his growing family. We also touch on the importance of life insurance, estate planning, and the possible choices between public and private schooling. Cody reflects on how being a financial advisor has prepared him for fatherhood and anticipates how fatherhood will, in turn, deepen his connection with clients. 5 Key Takeaways: Early Conversations and Planning: Cody stresses the importance of early and honest discussions about family planning even during the dating phase. Knowing each other’s desires about having children can shape the future and pinpoint readiness for starting a family. Financial Preparation and Adjustments: Financial planning for a new baby involves reassessments of budgets, exploring the costs of daycare, making necessary home adjustments, and ramping up that emergency fund. Cody shares the humorous reality of exceeding budget plans with frequent trips to places like Target. Healthcare, Childcare, and Education: Conversations around adjusting work schedules, weighing daycare options, and considering the pros and cons of public versus private education are crucial. Cody highlights the life-changing expenses associated with raising a child and how to plan for them effectively. Importance of Life Insurance and Estate Planning: Essential aspects of family planning include ensuring there is adequate life insurance and that estate documents are in order. Cody notes how these steps, though centered around dire scenarios, are fundamental in securing the family's future. Balancing Professional and Personal Life: Cody articulates how being a financial advisor has uniquely equipped him to plan for his family and posits that becoming a parent will help him relate even more profoundly with his clients. He emphasizes the need for drawing upon available resources, supporting his wife, and maintaining a balance between professional and personal demands. Cody's journey is a testament to the power of early planning and the perpetual balancing act of professional and personal life. Don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with anyone who might benefit from Cody's valuable insights. Remember, if you have any topics or ideas you'd like us to discuss in a future episode of "Don't Retire... Graduate!", please reach out on social media. Stay tuned for our next episode, and until then, don't retire… graduate! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    14 min
  • Saving on College: Mastering the College Financial Aid Game with Dr. Kuni Beasley
    Jan 23 2025
    Welcome back to Don't Retire... Graduate!: the podcast that invites you to rethink what retirement really means. In today's episode, we're taking a look at college admissions and financial aid with our special guest, Dr. Kuni Beasley. With over 40 years of experience in helping students and their families navigate the complexities of getting into college and securing financial aid, Dr. Beasley brings a wealth of knowledge and practical advice that could save you thousands of dollars while helping your children achieve their academic dreams. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Beasley to discuss his unique approach to navigating the often daunting landscape of college admissions and financial aid. We explore his strategies, which have helped countless families secure significant scholarships and grants, minimizing the out-of-pocket costs for higher education. Dr. Beasley shares insights into the different types of financial aid available, including merit-based, need-based, and entitlement aid, and explains the crucial steps families need to take as early as the 9th grade to maximize their opportunities. We also tackle the importance of standardized testing, building strong resumes, and understanding lesser-known ways to finance college education. Dr. Beasley emphasizes that no college is worth dipping into retirement funds and offers practical advice on maintaining financial health while supporting educational aspirations. 5 Key Takeaways: Types of Financial Aid (MONEY Acronym): Dr. Beasley introduces the acronym MONEY to describe the five types of financial aid: Merit-based, Opportunity-based, Need-based, Entitlement, and Your Own Money. Understanding each type is crucial to navigating college costs effectively. Early Planning is Essential: Starting from the 9th grade, families should begin planning and preparing for college applications and financial aid opportunities. Dr. Beasley stresses that delaying this process can result in missed financial opportunities, costing families dearly. Maximize Standardized Testing: Despite the rise of test-optional policies, standardized test scores like the SAT and ACT remain critical for scholarship opportunities and college admissions. Dr. Beasley recommends taking tests early and often to achieve the best possible scores. Build a Strong Resume: Students should engage in activities that enhance their resumes, such as earning the Presidential Volunteer Service Award and participating in programs like Boys State and Girls State. Such accolades can significantly impress admissions officers and improve scholarship chances. Financial Aid Strategies: Correctly filling out the FAFSA is critical, as mistakes can cost families tens of thousands of dollars. Dr. Beasley also highlights strategies like leveraging ROTC scholarships and understanding institutional aid policies to reduce reliance on personal funds. For those interested in diving deeper into Dr. Beasley's methods and potentially saving thousands on college costs, more information can be found at Beasley College Prep. Tune in next time for another inspiring episode of "Don't Retire... Graduate!" If you enjoyed our show, please subscribe, leave a rating on your favorite podcast platform, and share it with your friends and family so they can join you on your journey to financial freedom. Feel free to send us a topic or idea you'd like to discuss in a future episode by posting it on our Facebook page or tweeting us at @BrotmanPlanning. Until next time, don't retire... graduate! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    31 min
  • From Immigrant Roots to Investment Committee Chair: Diary of a Financial Advisor
    Jan 16 2025
    Welcome back to another episode of "Don't Retire... Graduate!" I'm your host, Eric Brotman. Our podcast aims to guide you to a fulfilling and passionate retirement by asking you the important question: "What do you want to be when you grow up?" In our "Diary of a Financial Advisor" segment, we interview financial advisors about their unique journeys and their dedication to helping others succeed financially. Today, I'm thrilled to introduce Claudia Glover, a chair of our investment committee and a highly credentialed CFP, who will share her professional and personal journey with us. Claudia has a wide array of experiences in the financial industry. Originally inspired by her father, who immigrated with their family and taught her the values of discipline and saving, Claudia embarked on a path in finance that has led her to become a trusted advisor and the chair of our investment committee at BFG. In this episode, Claudia shares her inspiring journey into the world of finance, which began by watching her father's disciplined financial management. After graduating from college, Claudia knew she wanted to enter the finance field. Her career has been non-linear, starting as an associate, moving onto a fixed income trading desk, and eventually managing a growth and income SMA at Wells Fargo. Transitioning from the large corporate environment of Wells Fargo to the more intimate setting of BFG was a culture shock, but one she has embraced wholeheartedly. Claudia talks about her "why"—helping clients reach milestones—and how this drives her every day. We also discuss Claudia's accountability partnership within BFG and how it has benefitted both her and me. Finally, we explore the impact of financial wellness programs on both Claudia's career and the lives of the clients she serves. 5 Key Takeaways: Claudia’s Inspirational Journey: Claudia was moved to enter finance by observing her father’s disciplined financial habits. This demonstrates the significant impact parents can have on their children's financial literacy and career choices. Career Path & Experience: Claudia’s career has been diverse, ranging from assisting a team of advisors to managing a growth and income SMA. Her varied experiences have equipped her with the knowledge and skills to effectively support her clients. Transition from Large to Small Firms: Moving from Wells Fargo's massive organization to the more personal environment at BFG was a notable shift. However, it offered Claudia the opportunity to engage more deeply with her clients and understand their financial situations on a personal level. Importance of Accountability: The concept of having an accountability partner at BFG has been a significant factor in personal and professional growth for Claudia. Monthly meetings to discuss goals have helped her maintain focus and drive. Financial Wellness Programs: These programs allow financial advisors like Claudia to reach a broader audience, offering personalized financial advice and guidance. These programs can profoundly affect the financial health and understanding of participants. I hope you find this episode not only informative but also inspirational. Claudia's journey is a testament to how diverse experiences and a heartfelt commitment to helping others can lead to a fulfilling career in financial services. Join us next week for another engaging episode, and in two weeks, meet another advisor in our "Diary of a Financial Advisor" series. If you enjoyed our show, please subscribe and leave a rating on your favorite podcast platform. Share this episode with friends and family so they, too, can join the journey to financial freedom. Have a topic or idea you’d or idea you’d like us to explore? Post it on our Facebook page or tweet us at Brotman Planning. Until next time, remember: Don't retire, graduate! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    11 min
  • Smart Financial Moves for 2025: Tax Policies, Investing, and Retirement with Joe Saul-Sehy
    Jan 9 2025
    Welcome to the premiere of the sixth season of "Don't Retire... Graduate!" I'm your host, Eric Brotman, and I'm thrilled to be back after a year-long hiatus. Our mission remains the same: to provide you with the insights and tools you need to achieve financial independence and live the life you’ve always dreamed of. Today, our guest is a DRG regular, the incomparable Joe Saul-Sehy. Joe is an esteemed financial expert and the creator and co-host of the "Stacking Benjamins" podcast network. Joe is also a former financial advisor, a board member of the Plutus Foundation, and an author. With such a wealth of experience, he's the perfect guest to kick off our new season. In this episode, Joe and I take a look at the intersections of politics, investments, and financial planning. With the recent election, we discuss the impact it will have on tax policy, the economy, and interest rates. Joe emphasizes the importance of personal accountability and taking action based on current realities rather than political outcomes. We discuss economic volatility, current stock market trends, and the significant influence of the Federal Reserve compared to political administrations. Joe provides valuable investment strategies, stressing the impracticality of market timing and advocating for a long-term perspective. We also share personal anecdotes, including Joe’s new venture, "Stacking Adventures," a travel blog and podcast. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the importance of enjoying life experiences early, leveraging personal hobbies, and maintaining quality family time. 5 Key Takeaways: Personal Accountability Over Politics: Joe emphasizes that regardless of recent election outcomes or political affiliations, personal accountability and action based on current facts are crucial for financial success. Quoting Jack Welch, Joe highlights the importance of accepting reality as it is, not how we wish it to be. Investment Strategy: Joe argues that successful investing requires comfort with uncertainty and avoiding market timing. He gives an example of a friend who took advantage of a market drop to invest more, advocating for a long-term perspective. Federal Reserve’s Influence: The discussion reveals that the Federal Reserve has more short-term economic influence than the presidency. This insight challenges the common perception that political changes drastically affect personal financial strategies. Enjoying Life Experiences: Joe and I stress the importance of not waiting until old age to enjoy meaningful experiences due to potential health issues. Experiencing life now, rather than delaying gratification, is crucial for overall well-being. Community and Family Time: Personal hobbies and shared experiences, such as building Lego sets or playing board games, can provide significant non-material value. These activities help build strong relationships and create lasting memories, emphasizing that finance is not just about money but about what it enables people to do. I want to thank Joe Saul-Sehy for joining us today. Don't forget to check out his projects like "Stacked" and "Stacking Benjamins." As we move forward, stay tuned for more interviews and our new segment, "Diary of a Financial Advisor," every Thursday. Remember to subscribe, leave ratings, and share the podcast with your friends. Let's keep the conversation going and achieve financial graduation together! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    39 min
  • Don't Retire... Graduate! Trailer
    Dec 19 2024
    Welcome to Don’t Retire… Graduate!—the podcast that’s here to challenge the way you think about retirement. I’m your host, Eric Brotman, Certified Financial Planner Practitioner, and I’m excited to guide you in transforming retirement from a final destination into a new beginning—a graduation into the next great chapter of your life. Retirement isn’t just about stepping away from a career; it’s about stepping into a life that’s filled with purpose, joy, and fulfillment. Whether you’re counting down the days to retirement or just starting to plan, we’re here to help you not just survive, but thrive in your post-career years. In every episode, we’ll explore how you can make the most of this exciting time by setting new goals, pursuing passions that light you up, and building a legacy that truly reflects who you are. You’ll hear from award-winning authors, financial experts, influencers, and everyday people with inspiring stories. Together, we’ll uncover strategies for achieving financial independence, managing your wealth, and making decisions that support your dreams. We’ll cover everything from personal finance and investing to retirement readiness, taxes, and more. And it’s not just about the money—we’ll dive deep into the emotional and psychological aspects of retirement too. How do you maintain your mental and physical health, nurture relationships, and stay connected to your community? We’re here to help you design a lifestyle that keeps you engaged, curious, and excited about the future. And don’t forget to check out our bonus content every other week, where you’ll get to meet the incredible team of financial advisors at BFG Financial Advisors. We’ll share real stories from the frontlines of financial planning and give you insider tips on how to make your retirement dreams a reality. Retirement is not the absence of work—it’s the absence of needing to work. So, why not graduate into a life of purpose, passion, and financial freedom? Tune in to Don’t Retire… Graduate! and let’s make these years the best ones of your life. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app and join us as we turn the page on traditional retirement and step into a life of limitless possibilities. I’m Eric Brotman—let’s get you graduated. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    3 min
  • Breaking Financial Stereotypes: Money Attitudes and Behaviors in a Diverse World with Cara Macksoud
    Aug 24 2023
    Welcome to a very special episode of Don't Retire... Graduate!: our finale. After five seasons, we're graduating from the podcast in order to take financial literacy education into a new format, with a new edition of the Don't Retire... Graduate! book releasing soon and our new financial wellness program taking off. Rounding out the show with a bang, we have Cara Macksoud of Money Habitudes here to talk about her journey from Wall Street trader to leading a company that helps people identify their financial biases and make positive changes in their habits. We'll explore the importance of being open-minded and empathetic towards clients with different attitudes and behaviors, as well as the gradual nature of habit change. Key takeaways: Financial security is important for a comfortable retirement transition. It involves having a certain level of income and assets to maintain a desired lifestyle. It's crucial to understand your money habits and attitudes, as they play a significant role in your financial decision-making. The Money Habitudes assessment helps individuals gauge where they fall along six domains and identify biases or areas for improvement. Money is relational and tied to associations such as family, culture, and community. Understanding the non-verbal messages and influences around money can help shape healthy money habits and attitudes. Giving and philanthropy can bring joy and satisfaction, and it's important to align your philanthropic efforts with your values and passions. Incorporating philanthropy into your financial plan can bring both status and personal fulfillment. Thank you to everyone who has supported this show over the last five years and allowed us to be part of your personal finance journey. Also, a special thank you to our executive producer Sara Lohse and our audio engineer Russ Riba for making this podcast happen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    44 min
  • Office Hours: Worrying About Retirement in Your 20s
    Aug 17 2023
    In today’s Office Hours, Eric answers Noah's question: “What can you tell someone in their 20s who is already worried about not being able to retire in the future?” This is a lot of stress to put on yourself so early in your life and career, but there are a few pieces of advice that Eric can share for you. Have a question? Tweet it to us at @BrotmanPlanning or post it on our Facebook and it may be used in a future episode of Office Hours! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    7 min
  • Love and Money: Financial Planning for Newly Weds
    Aug 10 2023
    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! On today's episode, we're getting personal and bringing in a member of the BFG family. Financial advisor Cody Niedermeier recently got married and is sharing his experience and advice for handling financial conversations before and after saying "I do." Even as a financial advisor, it can be hard to handle conversations around money within a relationship. Cody talks about dropping a whopping $15 on her plastic engagement ring (on top of the diamond one, of course), how he proposed, and the plans they have for the future. Communication and transparency are key when it comes to financial planning for couples. It is important to have open conversations about joint accounts, bill payments, and beneficiary designations to ensure that both partners are on the same page and have a clear understanding of their financial goals. When planning a wedding, it is advisable to save for the engagement ring rather than borrowing money. Using a credit card to purchase the ring means that the spouse is essentially paying for it, leading to unnecessary debt. The cost of weddings can vary greatly. It is crucial for couples to financially plan for their wedding and manage expectations. By understanding their budget and prioritizing expenses, couples can prevent financial strain and focus on what matters most to them. Geography plays a significant role in financial and legal matters. Couples should ensure that their estate planning documents are done in the state they are living in, as state laws differ. It is also important to consider insurance policies and beneficiary designations, especially when moving between different states. The importance of comprehensive financial planning cannot be overstated. From consolidating old retirement accounts to adjusting employee benefits, couples should seek guidance from financial advisors to help them navigate this complex process. This includes finding professionals for tax planning, legal matters, and other important areas to ensure a solid financial foundation for their marriage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    36 min