Episodes

  • Networking, Leadership, and Impact: Andrew Harrell’s Role in the Future of Financial Advice

    Networking, Leadership, and Impact: Andrew Harrell’s Role in the Future of Financial Advice
    May 22 2025
    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes of the financial planning profession with our recurring segment, Diary of a Financial Advisor. I’m excited to welcome back Andrew Harrell—a second-time guest and a perfect example of what it looks like to excel and give back in the financial advisory field. Andrew’s journey is marked by involvement and leadership—not only within the firm but also as a newly minted board member of the Financial Planning Association (FPA) of Maryland. He’s someone who truly believes in the collaborative spirit of financial planning, working to foster connections among advisors, drive awareness of legislative issues, and elevate the next generation of planners. In our discussion, Andrew and I dove into professional growth, the value of mentorship and collaboration amongst advisors, and the imperative of getting involved in advocacy through organizations like the FPA. We touched on why participating in these associations expands one’s perspective, and how collaboration trumps competition among advisors. Andrew shared his experience spearheading NextGen initiatives and explained how networking and community work not only benefit clients but enhance the profession as a whole. We also dove into the nuts and bolts of financial wellness, spotlighting BFG’s pioneering corporate financial wellness program—a benefit many don’t realize exists for employees at all levels, breaking the stereotype that financial advice is just for the wealthy. Andrew walked us through what it’s like to deliver hands-on guidance to folks navigating benefit packages, personal finances, and tough life decisions. And, of course, we chatted about the “wellness” aspect—what it means to equip clients with the tools and peace of mind they need to thrive not just financially, but holistically. Of course, I also had a little fun ribbing Andrew about his office nicknames, including “Young Protege” and “EJ” (Eric Junior), and we wrapped up with his vision for his future in the profession. 5 Key Takeaways: Collaboration Over Competition: Andrew emphasized that financial advisors can—and should—see each other as collaborators, not competitors. Networking with peers expands your perspective and helps everyone, including clients, succeed. The Value of Professional Associations: Being active in organizations like the Financial Planning Association provides community, advocacy, and professional development opportunities you won’t find working in a silo. Holistic Financial Wellness: Corporate financial wellness programs aren’t just about asset management; they’re about empowering employees of all levels to make informed decisions about their benefit plans, insurance, and other financial topics, bringing real peace of mind. Legislative Engagement Matters: The financial planning profession faces significant regulatory and legislative pressures. Advisors need to stay informed and get involved in advocacy to ensure their voices—and those of their clients—are heard. Impact Beyond the Numbers: Financial wellness means helping people feel good about their decisions, providing reassurance, and allowing them to focus on what matters most in life—without constantly worrying about money, assets, or benefits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    14 mins
  • Lessons from Gaming: Building a Career with YouTube Skills in the Financial World

    Lessons from Gaming: Building a Career with YouTube Skills in the Financial World
    May 15 2025
    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! On today’s episode, we’re digging into the evolving world of content creation, self-directed IRAs, and the power of pivoting careers—especially when your passions and professional path take an unexpected but rewarding turn. I’m excited to introduce my guest, Jasmine Trocchia, former Marketing Manager for American IRA. Her journey is both fascinating and instructive—beginning as a YouTuber and content creator with over 200,000 subscribers as “Sally Green Gamer” and evolving into a digital marketing leader in the financial services sector. In our conversation, Jasmine walks us through her remarkable transition—how being a stay-at-home mom and playing Minecraft with her kids sparked a successful YouTube career and ultimately helped her acquire an impressive skill set. We discuss the nuances of building a personal brand, growing a social media following from scratch, and translating those hard-earned “YouTube skills” into a robust marketing toolkit. Jasmine shares what it took to monetize her online presence, the downsides and safeguards of being a family-friendly online creator, and what she learned about networking, SEO, and audience building. We then explore how Jasmine applied her grassroots expertise to American IRA, a self-directed IRA firm with over 20 years in the industry. She details the company’s growth, their new educational webinar series and podcast, and her passion for helping people invest in nontraditional assets like real estate through their retirement accounts. Jasmine’s candor about the challenges of marketing in a highly regulated financial services environment—especially compared to the creative freedom on her own channel—offers valuable insight for anyone navigating career pivots. Finally, Jasmine opens up about her vision for the future, her goals of becoming a Chief Marketing Officer, and her next creative adventure with a new lifestyle vlog channel that blends family, fun, and storytelling. Her story is an inspiring reminder that the skills and passions from one chapter of life are often the building blocks for the next. 5 Key Takeaways: Transferable Skills Are Invaluable: Jasmine’s experience as a YouTuber taught her everything from video editing and SEO to audience engagement, all of which she now leverages in her role as a marketing manager. No skill or job, no matter how unconventional, is ever wasted! Monetizing Your Passion Is Possible: Playing online games with her kids led to a profitable YouTube channel—proof that with consistency, strategy (and a little algorithm savvy), creative pursuits can become significant income streams. Community and Safety Matter: As a prominent family-friendly YouTuber, Jasmine implemented strict boundaries to protect herself and her audience, reminding us that digital success must be accompanied by careful online safety and ethics. Pivoting Is a Superpower: Jasmine’s transition from content creator to marketing leader underscores how adaptability and a willingness to learn can open unexpected doors—even in vastly different industries. The Financial World Needs Creative Thinkers: Jasmine’s marketing approach brings fresh energy to American IRA, leveraging social media, webinars, and podcasts to demystify self-directed IRAs and inspire broader financial education. Join us as Jasmine’s journey fires up your imagination about what’s possible in your own career. Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with family, friends, and anyone who might be looking to turn their creative passions into meaningful work—or anyone curious about new frontiers in retirement planning! Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes as we help you graduate to your best financial future with purpose and passion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    28 mins
  • Building Financial Wellness and Community: Kobe Bolanos' Journey at BFG Financial Advisors

    Building Financial Wellness and Community: Kobe Bolanos' Journey at BFG Financial Advisors
    May 8 2025
    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, I’m delighted to bring you another entry in our “Diary of a Financial Advisor” segment, where we dive deep into the journeys, motivations, and unique perspectives of professionals in the financial planning world. Today, my guest is Kobe Bolanos, an Investment Operations Associate turned Financial Advisor at BFG Financial Advisors, and a dedicated advocate for financial literacy and community empowerment. I first met Kobe during his time at Stevenson University, and I’ve watched with pride as he’s grown from a recent graduate—overwhelmed by the complexities of investing—into a rising star at BFG. In our conversation, Kobe and I explore his transition from corporate finance to wealth management during the COVID era, and how an early reading of “Don’t Retire... Graduate!” first introduced him to the world of personal financial planning (even if it went way over his head at the time!). Kobe shares candidly about why he chose to join BFG over other opportunities, especially valuing our firm’s apprenticeship-style model that prioritizes education and mentorship over sales quotas. We discuss his hands-on experience with investment operations, associate work, and now advisory client meetings, and how this 360-degree perspective has deepened his appreciation for the emotional and behavioral elements of financial advice. We also talk about the importance of representation in the industry. Kobe recounts his experience attending his first large industry conference, reflecting on the challenges and opportunities that come with being an outlier in a room—and how that drives his passion for empowering others in his community. We dig into his specific interest in estate planning, the critical (and often overlooked) area he’s eager to champion for families and high earners alike. Throughout our conversation, Kobe emphasizes his holistic vision for the advisor role, blending financial guidance with conversations around wellness and life coaching. His ultimate goal? To help people become the best versions of themselves—financially, personally, and beyond. 5 Key Takeaways: The Power of Mentorship and Education: Kobe’s positive experience at BFG underscores the value of an apprenticeship model in building true advisory skills and prioritizing client relationships over sales targets. Financial Planning is Not One-Size-Fits-All: Every client’s goals and life situation are different, requiring truly personalized planning and a team-based approach for optimal outcomes. Emotional and Behavioral Finance Matter: Kobe notes that success in financial planning is about more than numbers—it’s about understanding the unique motivations and concerns of each client, and easing the emotional burden money often brings. The Neglected Importance of Estate Planning: Kobe is passionate about raising awareness for estate planning, pointing out that even high earners tend to overlook this crucial aspect of financial wellness—one that can have lasting generational impact. Representation and Community Impact: As a young advisor of color, Kobe is actively building his network through organizations like the Baltimore Estate Planning Council and QuadE. He sees himself as both an advocate and a role model, working to create a more inclusive and supportive industry for all. Join us on this episode as we celebrate the journey of a financial advisor who’s making a tangible difference—one client and one community at a time. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this podcast with anyone looking to graduate into retirement with purpose, passion, and a solid plan! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    11 mins
  • Shifting the Prism: Karyn Polak on Impact Investing and Doing Good with Your Money

    Shifting the Prism: Karyn Polak on Impact Investing and Doing Good with Your Money
    May 1 2025
    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the world of values-driven finance and social impact investing—a topic that blends doing well financially with doing good in the world. I’m joined in the studio by Karyn Polak, founder and Chief Activator of Shift the Prism. Karyn is a lawyer by training and a passionate advocate for equity and inclusion through finance. With a career spanning major law firms, financial institutions like Citigroup, PNC, and Transamerica, and now her own advisory work, Karyn is on a mission to mobilize capital for the greater good, investing for people, planet, and place. Karyn and I had an engaging conversation about the often-blurry line between philanthropy and impact investing. We talked through the realities of working for “big finance” on Wall Street and the motivations that drive individuals and communities to use their money as a tool for positive change. Karyn shared insights about how the large, profit-driven financial institutions can sometimes disconnect from the communities they’re meant to serve, and why it matters where “your money sleeps at night.” We discussed the barriers Main Street investors face in navigating both traditional and alternative investments, the rise of crowdfunding, and the crucial differences between philanthropic giving and investment for social return. We also addressed the challenges posed by regulation and compliance, how most advisors are limited in recommending private impact opportunities, and why it's so important for people to ask the right questions about where their dollars go—even when working with community foundations or donor-advised funds. Karyn outlined practical steps for everyday investors interested in creating both wealth and societal impact, introduced valuable resources for further exploration, and spoke from the heart about her career transition from big law and finance to social entrepreneurship. Karyn concluded by sharing her “why”: the belief that everyone deserves access and opportunity, and the desire to see the real humans behind the numbers. If you’ve ever wondered how to align your money with your values—or how to create lasting impact while building your own financial independence—this episode is a must-listen. 5 Key Takeaways: Understanding the Spectrum: There’s a world of possibilities between pure philanthropy (giving money away) and profit-maximizing investment. Investors can aim for both financial return and social good, using vehicles like community banks, impact funds, and recoverable grants. Where Your Money Sleeps Matters: Where you choose to keep your money—whether in a big bank or a community institution—can profoundly affect the local community. Community banks use deposits to support local businesses, whereas large institutions often circulate funds globally. The Power of Crowdfunding: Recent innovations in crowdfunding allow individuals to invest in local businesses and projects, often with modest amounts, blurring the lines between customer and investor and increasing neighborhood-level impact. Ask the Right Questions (and Resources to Help): Investors need to be proactive—ask community foundations and donor-advised funds how their dollars are invested. Resources like As You Sow, US SIF, and Invest for Better can empower you with knowledge and confidence. Align Risk, Return, and Impact: When evaluating any investment, consider not only the traditional financial return and risk but also the social and environmental impact. The most sustainable companies manage all three—benefiting investors and society alike. Join us and get inspired to use your finances as a force for positive change—without sacrificing your own financial goals. As always, please subscribe, rate, and share Don’t Retire… Graduate! with your friends and family, and let’s keep transforming the way we think about retirement, purpose, and impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    33 mins
  • Behind the Scenes at BFG: Beth Nori on Tax Planning and Financial Advisor Life

    Behind the Scenes at BFG: Beth Nori on Tax Planning and Financial Advisor Life
    Apr 24 2025
    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! Today’s episode takes you behind the scenes of the financial planning world with an in-depth look at what it means to be a financial advisor dedicated to serving clients’ best interests—sometimes from out of the spotlight. I’m joined by Beth Nori, a talented and detail-oriented CFP practitioner from BFG, who has been with our team for over eight years. While Beth isn’t always sitting across the table from clients, her impact is felt in every plan we create through her commitment to preparation, tax strategy, and precise behind-the-scenes work. In our discussion, Beth and I explored her unique career journey, from her early days in big financial firms in the D.C. area, to her move to the Baltimore region, and ultimately, to her embrace of the tight-knit culture at BFG. We dove into the differences between working at large firms and smaller, family-feel companies, and Beth shared how the close relationships and personal growth opportunities here propelled her forward—especially in taking on some of the technical aspects of planning that many advisors shy away from. One of the highlights of our conversation was Beth’s focus on tax planning. As someone who thrives on details and enjoys crunching numbers, she’s leaned into the challenge of collaborating with CPAs, reviewing tax returns, and seeking new educational opportunities to bridge the gap between financial planning and tax expertise. Her journey serves as a testament to the value of playing to your strengths and finding your niche within the advisory profession. Beth’s story is not only about technical excellence, but also about purpose, passion, and finding fulfillment by helping others succeed—even if that means you’re supporting from behind the curtain. Whether you’re an aspiring advisor, a planner seeking your specialty, or simply intrigued by what happens “backstage” in financial planning, Beth’s insights are sure to resonate. 5 Key Takeaways: Behind-the-Scenes Excellence: Beth’s work in meeting preparation and plan analysis ensures every client interaction is informed, meaningful, and personalized, proving that vital contributions don’t always happen in the limelight. Finding Your Niche: By embracing the detail-oriented, technical side of planning—especially in areas like tax analysis—Beth illustrates the importance of discovering and thriving in your professional “lane.” The Value of Small-Firm Culture: Beth emphasizes the family atmosphere at BFG, where close relationships and ongoing growth are possible, highlighting how firm size and culture can shape advisory careers. Tax Planning as a Differentiator: Tackling areas like tax planning not only brings immense value to clients (everyone loves saving on their tax bill!) but also sets planners apart, especially when they’re willing to work collaboratively with CPAs. Continuous Learning: Beth’s commitment to additional tax education, through specialized courses for accumulators, retirees, and end-of-life planning, underscores the importance of lifelong learning in serving clients’ evolving needs. Join us as we pull back the curtain on financial advising, uncover new career possibilities, and celebrate the professionals who make financial independence possible for so many families. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others discover their own path to financial freedom and fulfillment! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    10 mins
  • Multifamily Real Estate Investing: Risks, Rewards, and Getting Started with Veena Jetti

    Multifamily Real Estate Investing: Risks, Rewards, and Getting Started with Veena Jetti
    Apr 17 2025
    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the world of real estate investing, with a special focus on multifamily properties. Joining us is Veena Jetti, founding partner of VIVE Funds, a commercial real estate firm known for curating conservative investment opportunities. Veena's expertise in driving corporate strategy and leveraging cutting-edge technologies makes her a leading voice in this complex field. Throughout our conversation, Veena and I explore the intricacies and challenges of real estate investing, particularly for financial advisors who often lack specific expertise in this area. We explore the dichotomy between professional investors and do-it-yourself enthusiasts, highlighting the expertise required to navigate real estate successfully. Veena shares her journey from working in corporate real estate to managing a billion-dollar multifamily portfolio and offers insights into the risks and rewards of the industry. One of the key insights from our discussion is Veena's perspective on whether real estate always appreciates in value. Despite market fluctuations, she argues that real estate trends upward over long periods, emphasizing the importance of understanding market cycles and being prepared for downturns. We also touch on ethical concerns, with Veena expressing the significance of being a responsible investor while discussing the potential impact of large corporations owning substantial property segments. 5 Key Takeaways: Real Estate as a Long-Term Investment: Veena asserts that while the real estate market experiences cycles, it generally appreciates over long periods. Successful investors must have the patience and resources to weather downturns. The Role of Expertise: Investing in real estate, particularly multifamily properties, requires significant expertise and active management. Veena emphasizes that it's a full-time endeavor, not a side hobby. Ethical Real Estate Investing: Veena highlights the importance of ethical practices in real estate, pointing out the responsibilities of investors to prioritize community revitalization and provide quality housing. Opportunities for Passive Investors: While active investment in real estate is complex, there are opportunities for those seeking passive income through firms like VIVE Funds, requiring accreditation and significant initial investment. Impact of Large Corporations: The growing trend of large private equity firms owning multiple single-family homes poses a challenge for individual homebuyers, potentially reshaping the housing market landscape. Join us as we uncover the nuances of real estate investing with Veena Jetti. Subscribe, rate, and share this episode as we empower you to achieve a purposeful and prosperous retirement! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    33 mins
  • Camden Roots to Financial Growth: Shakirrah Clarke Gunther's Inspiring Journey

    Camden Roots to Financial Growth: Shakirrah Clarke Gunther's Inspiring Journey
    Apr 10 2025
    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s Diary of a Financial Advisor entry, we dive into the journey of a dedicated financial professional who rose from humble beginnings to making impactful strides in the financial services industry. Joining us on the podcast is Shakirrah Clarke Gunther, a Client Service Associate at BFG Financial Advisors. Shakirrah brings over thirteen years of experience to the table, possessing a passion for uplifting her clients from financial literacy to financial freedom. As an individual hailing from a challenging upbringing in Camden, New Jersey, she has become a beacon of motivation for her community and family, striving to break the chains of poverty with her expertise and empathy. In our conversation, Shakirrah candidly shared her life story, providing insights into her journey from an urban setting defined by scarcity, to becoming an integral part of a firm that values a familial workplace culture. She discussed her commitment to not only growing within her career but also contributing to the growth of others by sharing the knowledge she accumulated through her personal and professional experiences. From overcoming shyness to stepping into the financial spotlight, Shakirrah's tale is one of resilience and transformation. We explored her evolving relationship with money—how she transitioned from living paycheck-to-paycheck to prioritizing long-term planning. Shakkirah emphasized the importance of having a supportive network, citing how her current role at BFG offers the environment she needs to thrive and expand her horizons. 5 Key Takeaways: Valuing a Family Environment: Shakirrah highlighted how the sense of belonging and support at BFG Financial Advisors has been instrumental in her professional satisfaction, allowing her to overcome personal barriers and focus on growth. From Scarcity to Strategic Planning: Growing up in poverty-stricken Camden, Shakirrah has shifted her financial mindset from one of immediate survival to embracing long-term strategic planning for her future. Embracing Growth Opportunities: Despite her admitted shyness, Shakirrah underscores the significance of stepping out of comfort zones and seizing opportunities for personal and professional development, such as being involved in podcasts and other innovative platforms. Community Impact: Shakirrah is driven by a desire to be a pillar in her community, acting as a role model and resource for younger generations, showing them the potential that exists beyond their immediate circumstances. Money Mindset Evolution: Shakirrah's journey reflects a transition from viewing money as a finite resource to understanding its potential to work sustainably for her, encapsulated in her goal to ensure her money is working towards her future independence. Join us for this inspiring episode as we follow Shakirrah's path toward financial empowerment and learn how she leverages her experience to impact her life and the lives of others positively. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode to inspire those around you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    13 mins
  • How to Buy a House Without a Buyer’s Agent with Nick Aufenkamp

    How to Buy a House Without a Buyer’s Agent with Nick Aufenkamp
    Apr 3 2025
    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today's episode, I'm excited to dive deep into the world of real estate with our special guest, Nick Aufenkamp. Nick is a real estate agent who's embarked on a unique path, teaching homebuyers how to navigate the buying process without a buyer's agent, aiming to save them significant money. With a background in pastoral ministry and extensive experience in real estate, Nick joins us to share his insights on the DIY home buying process and the changing landscape of the real estate industry. During our conversation, Nick and I discussed the potential pitfalls of traditional buyer's agency, highlighting the inherent conflict of interest when agents are incentivized for higher purchase prices. We explored the innovative DIY Homebuyer Academy that Nick has developed, which offers tools, community support, and coaching to empower buyers to self-represent during their purchase. Nick candidly shared the challenges within the industry, the resistance to change from traditional realtors, and the real-world impact of recent legal shifts affecting buyer representation. We also touched on the crucial aspects of the closing process, emphasizing the importance of understanding agreements before signing and considering a real estate attorney’s help when needed. 5 Key Takeaways: DIY Homebuyer Academy: Nick's program offers a comprehensive approach for homebuyers to self-represent and potentially save thousands on commissions, utilizing a blend of community support, online courses, and individualized coaching. Conflict in Traditional Buyer Agency: The episode highlighted the misalignment in incentives between buyers and traditional agents, where agents profit more when buyers spend more, alongside the pressure to close deals swiftly. Resistance from Real Estate Industry: Nick shared insights on the industry's resistance to the DIY model, owing to the entrenched interests and systems built around traditional commission structures. Navigating the Closing Process: We discussed the daunting closing process, emphasizing the importance of understanding all legal documents before signing and the potential need for a real estate attorney. Empowering Buyers: The conversation focused on empowering buyers with knowledge and control over their transactions, advocating for transparency and education in what is often the most significant financial transaction of one's life.  Join us as we explore new ways to empower yourself in real estate and strive for a purpose-filled financial future. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with those eager to take control of their home-buying journey! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    33 mins