Don't Retire...Graduate!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In today’s Office Hours, Eric answers Olivia's question: “What advice would you give today that you wouldn't have expected to 10 years ago?” The advice does change over time, but with 30 years of experience as a financial advisor, it's clear that some of the basic fundamentals don't: paying yourself first and avoiding adverse debt. But economic conditions and products do change and there are things that we wouldn't have recommended a decade or even 5 years ago. 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

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! On this episode we’re joined by Hassan Thomas, the creator of the FYI FLI (For Your Information Financial Literacy and Investing) app and host of the FYI FLI podcast.  He is here to share his story of beginning his entrepreneurial journey during a global recession, having to pivot a future after an injury, and growing a brand focused on teaching personal finance.  In this episode we’ll talk about: • Understanding your goals and finding someone who can help you achieve them is crucial. • Building a comfortable and goal-oriented working relationship with a coach is essential. • The internet has made information more accessible, allowing for self-education and learning new skills. • During times of economic uncertainty, having multiple income sources and financial literacy is important. • The current generation faces more financial challenges, with the need for multiple jobs and side hustles to support a family. • Financial education and applying knowledge can have an immediate and positive impact on personal finances. • Establishing an emergency fund (or peace of mind fund) in a high-yield savings account is an excellent starting point for financial stability. • Continual learning and progress in financial education can lead to life-changing opportunities and success. • Having a plan, taking action, and being prepared are key factors in progressing and achieving financial goals. • Understanding how recessions impact individuals and their finances is essential for making informed financial decisions. Visit dontretiregraduate.com for a full transcript of this episode. About Hassan Thomas: Hassan R. Thomas: the new face of emerging FinTech and the Founder of a new APP called FYI FLI (For Your Information, Financial Literacy & Investing), and the CEO of HRT Enterprises LLC.  @ceosanni @fyifli Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s Office Hours, Eric answers Charlotte's question: “What movie taught you the most about money?” Eric chose the movie The Ultimate Gift based on a book by Jim Stovall because of how it taught the value of money and how you can use it to make a difference. This is the opposite of one we often mention as more of a cautionary tale, which is Billy Madison. 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

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! On this special 100th episode, we’re joined by Marika Stimac, a life coach dedicated to helping people improve their financial literacy and achieve their financial goals. Marika, who has written a book called "Keys to Financial Confidence: Unlock Your Best Life," shares valuable insights and actionable steps to create a positive financial legacy. Marika talks about the importance of bringing awareness to the impact of one's financial situation and shifting to a more positive mindset about money, highlighting that financial legacy is not just about leaving behind a large sum of money but also about the mindset and values that are passed down.  Join us to learn how you can be mindful about money and how your actions and words can influence others.  In this episode we’ll talk about: •Actions and words around money influence others in your life. •Shifting to a positive mindset about money can create a financial legacy. •Being mindful of how you handle money can potentially help others in their lives. •Financial legacy is not just about the amount of money one leaves behind, but also the mindset. •Leaving a financial legacy involves creating meaningful connections and thoughtful gestures. •Legacy is about leaving gifts of opportunity, experience, and influence for children, not just material possessions. •Mindset and habitual practices play a significant role in financial behaviors. •Identifying and understanding the origin of money stories can lead to healthier financial behaviors. •Overcoming money drama and reframing mindset is crucial for financial success. •Personalized investing aligned with your passions and goals can lead to meaningful financial growth. Visit dontretiregraduate.com for a full transcript of this episode. About Marika Stimac: I became a life coach with the intent of helping people unlock their best lives but quickly recognized how many people are held back by their financial insecurities. Now I am dedicated to empowering individuals to improve their financial literacy and feel confident in their ability to achieve their financial goals and live the life they desire. @thefinancialconfidencecoach  www.linkedin.com/in/marikastimac www.facebook.com/marikastimac www.pinterest.ca/thefinancialconfidencecoach/ www.thefinancialconfidencecoach.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s Office Hours, Eric answers Oliver's question: “What should I know about finances before I buy my first home?” Well done for thinking ahead! There are so many costs that go into home ownership that are different from renting, like maintenance, taxes, and furnishing. Listen to what Eric thinks is important to know before you make the purchase. 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

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! On this episode we’re joined by John Crane, a financial advisor and author of The One Number Budget.  In the episode, Eric and John share their dislike of traditional budgeting—which Eric less-than-affectionately calls the “B-word”—and go through John’s exercise of finding the “one number” you need for this new budgeting concept. In this episode we’ll talk about: •Budget shaming and why it’s harmful •Taking a lifetime approach to budgeting •What it means to find your number and how to do it •Importance of financially funded retirement •Avoiding financial vampires •Figuring out how to use accumulated wealth, create income, manage taxes, and avoid running out of money before running out of oxygen •The concept of human life value and why it matters •How Target has perfected the art of being a financial vampire and driving impulse purchases •spending for love and how it can hurt your finances •long term care insurance and how it can impact multigenerational planning About John Crane: Author, financial advisor, and retirement income planner John W. Crane has spent more than a decade providing personalized financial guidance to business professionals, corporate executives, and medical specialists, utilizing a comprehensive planning process to identify each client’s unique goals. He’s a member of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors and has received top honors from the premier association of financial professionals, MDRT. A lifelong learner himself, John shares his expertise with students at hospitals and high schools throughout Washington, D.C. www.cranefinancial.com/ www.linkedin.com/in/johncrane/ Visit dontretiregraduate.com for a full transcript of this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s Office Hours, Eric answers Jake's question: "How can I open a Roth IRA for my child?” This is a great question and a great way to set your kids up for success, but you need to understand how they work and how to use them. 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

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! On this episode, Eric Brotman chats with financial industry veteran Troy Holt about the importance of financial literacy and shares some key strategies for managing your personal finances.  Troy is passionate about financial literacy and explains how a job in finance can provide both community impact and personal satisfaction beyond merely making money. He is here to walk us through the seven money milestones he and his team have identified in the financial planning journey, starting with financial education and leading to building and protecting wealth. Listen now for tips on cutting expenses, generating income through multiple streams, and protecting wealth with proper insurance coverage and investment in income-producing assets.  In this episode we’ll talk about: • The importance of financial education  • The areas in our finances where most people are not protected, including life insurance and disability insurance • Rules of thumb for emergency funds and managing debt • Cash flow and how to begin building wealth • Investing in income-producing assets and creating multiple income streams • Avoiding one-size-fits-all financial advice and finding an advisor that can act as a copilot  Visit dontretiregraduate.com for a full transcript of this episode. About Troy Holt: Troy Holt is a skilled sales and account executive with over 20 years of experience in business growth, development and financial planning. As a Certified Financial Educator & Registered Financial Consultant, Troy is licensed in 20 states and is an independent coach, speaker, and trainer. He is well-versed in communication, leadership, and work ethic, and has a proven track record of success in his endeavors. He is the co-author of an Amazon Best Seller book and host of the Troy Talks podcast, where he shares his expertise and personal stories to inspire others. Troy is also the CEO (Chief Encouragement Officer) of Troy Holt Consulting LLC, a growing financial consulting company focused on empowering and educating individuals and small business owners on wealth accumulation, preservation, and debt elimination. Troy is an engaging and motivating speaker, mentor, and Independent Coach, Speaker, and Trainer with The John Maxwell Company, who has made it a personal mission to eliminate financial illiteracy, particularly in the African American community with a focus on black women. Troy is a 33-year member of the same church, serving in ministry for 29 years and as a Licensed Elder with the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World for 26 years. He currently resides in Pensacola, FL with his wife of 31 years, one adult son, and three grandchildren. Troy Holt's LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3dru6pP Troy Holt's Instagram: https://bit.ly/3YEo9OZ Troy Holt's Twitter: https://bit.ly/33EMQ2W Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s Office Hours, Eric answers Colby's question: “When should somebody start investing?” The short answer is as soon as you have money available to invest, but the conversation doesn't stop there. 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

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! Today’s guest has used Airbnb to reach financial freedom early and is teaching others how to do the same. Zeona McIntyre is an author, realtor, investment consultant, and speaker who has been helping people house hack and build their portfolios of short and medium-term rentals for several years. She sat down with Eric to talk about how she has reached her financial goals, the lessons she has learned through experience, and how she has shaped her career to allow for her ideal lifestyle.  Listen to the conversation and then reach out to Zeona and tell her what it is that would make you happy. In this episode we’ll talk about: • How Zeona started with AirBNB when $50,000 in debt • Things that can go wrong when managing rental properties • Why you should install cameras in your rental properties (and what happened before Zeona learned that lesson) • The FIRE movement and how she got involved • Suze Orman and the traditional, slow retirement ideology  • How Zeona hit her retirement number within two years through real estate investing • Why real estate investing is not actually passive income  • Protecting yourself from liability as a property manager • Zeona’s succession plan • Acting despite fear  Visit dontretiregraduate.com for a full transcript of this episode. About Zeona McIntyre: Zeona McIntyre is an Author, Realtor, Investment Consultant, and Speaker. She has been an Airbnb host since 2012, and she now uses her decade of experience to help her clients House Hack and build portfolios of short & medium-term rentals. She is an avid Real Estate Investor owning a double-digit portfolio of furnished rentals across five states. She is the co-author of the BiggerPockets book "30 Day Stay. A Real Estate Investor's Guide to Mastering the Medium-term Rental''. Instagram: @zeonamcintyre Facebook: zeona.mcintyre YouTube: @ZeonaMTR Website: https://www.zeonamcintyre.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s Office Hours, Eric answers Ava's question: “How much does money matter in a relationship?” This is a multifaceted question with different types of relationships, but in all types, it is necessary to have communication, transparency, and honesty. 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

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! This is an episode unlike any we’ve done before. Our guest is Rachael Schlimmer, a nomad who is traveling more often than she isn’t but is ready to start putting down roots and planning out her future.  While we promised not to call this an intervention (or a séance for that matter), Rachael was at a crossroads and needed someone to interfere, if only to help her stop doubting herself. She and Eric sat down for what is almost a financial planning consultation to discuss her goals, explore opportunities for cash flow, and get her to the realization that what you think your life is supposed to look like is not necessarily what it should look like.  And, like many initial financial planning conversations, there was very little talk of money and a lot of talk of what she wants to be when she grows up. Listen now to go on this self-discovery journey with us. In this episode we’ll talk about: • Turning your passions and hobbies into your career • The career paths that allow for the nomadic lifestyle that Rachael loves • Redefining the idea of “home,” and finding home in the people you meet  • The skills you need (or don’t need) to make a living • Barbara Sloan’s book Tipped and the value it holds for those with less traditional income Visit dontretiregraduate.com for a full transcript of this episode. About Rachel Schlimmer: I've been semi-nomadic for the last 5-6 years, working for most of a year, travelling for 8-10 months. I'm working towards putting down some roots and building some stability, and part of that is upping my long-term finance game. Fortuitously met Eric over the bar top of a hotel restaurant I'm newly coffee slinging for, and here we are! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s Office Hours, Eric answers Matt's question: “How do you effectively balance among saving, retirement, and expenses?" There is no rule of thumb here, but we may be able to find a balance that works 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

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! We have two very special guests today, Julien and Kiersten Saunders. They are the hosts of the Rich and Regular podcast and Money on the Table video series and authors of their recently published book, “Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game by Walking Away.”  The couple joins us to talk about how the finance game is rigged against minorities and how they built their wealth—and paid down mind-numbing debt—despite the challenges they faced. This is a powerful episode you won’t want to miss! In this episode we’ll talk about: • How not to start a relationship.  • Julien and Kiersten’s story and why they wrote their book the way they did. • The barriers and challenges that people of color face, particularly in finance. • Wage and income gaps and how they’re still prevalent.  • The history of slavery and share cropping and how they still impact us. • Choosing your boss wisely and finding one that advocates for you. • Paying yourself first and having courage to invest money. • Treating personal finance as financial hygiene.  • Becoming a connector and the value of community, both virtual and in person. • Paying off debt the way you chop down a tree. About Julien and Kiersten Saunders: Julien and Kiersten are authors of Cashing Out: Win the Wealth Game By Walking Away under Portfolio Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House. They are also the creative voices behind the blog richandregular.com, hosts/producers of the award-winning video series, Money on the Table, and hosts of the rich & REGULAR podcast.  https://richandregular.com  Visit dontretiregraduate.com for a full transcript of this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s Office Hours, Eric answers Madeline's question: “Should I stop contributing to my 401(k) to pay for my daughter's college now or should I take loans and continue to invest in my retirement?”  This a question many are facing, and there is no one perfect answer. However, retirement is the one thing you cannot borrow for so it's important to take care of yourself first financially before your children. Eric explains why. 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! Visit dontretiregraduate.com for a full transcript of this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! Today’s guest is as young and scrappy as her brand. Michelle Waymire founded her financial planning practice to help the LGBTQ+ community make sense of their finances in an environment that is uniquely designed for them.  Her approach to financial planning means making your money work towards building a joyful, abundant, and giving life and she is here to share more about her story and how she is changing the industry to be less male, pale, and stale.  Listen to her abundance philosophy and start changing your mindset. If not, well, bless your heart. In this episode we’ll talk about: • Michelle launching a financial planning practice right before the pandemic took over the world • What it means to be a fiduciary  • How young clients don’t want their parents’ financial advisor and how important it is to have a multigenerational financial planning practice • How women in finance are seen as assistants and secretaries regardless of position  • A collaborative approach to financial advising  • The abundance mindset vs striving for wealth • Abundance as a means to an end instead of an end goal • How financial planning for the LGBTQ+ community is different  • Partnerships and collaborations that can help the LGBTQ+ community find a better financial advisor for them Visit dontretiregraduate.com for a full transcript of this episode. About Michelle Waymire: Michelle Waymire is a fiduciary financial advisor and financial coach, as well as the founder of Young & Scrappy, a specialty practice geared towards serving young professionals, artists/entrepreneurs, and LGBTQ+ folx. Michelle holds her Masters in Business Administration from the University of Tennessee, is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charterholder and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (tm) and has been quoted/featured in US News, Glamour, Bustle, local NPR, and many more. You can read about her work at www.youngandscrappy.com. Or check out The Young and Scrappy Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/theyoungscrappy/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s Office Hours, Eric answers Alicia's question: “Can money actually buy happiness?”  Over his 30-year career, Eric has seen people with more money than they could ever need who were miserable and some who were happy. The same can be said for those with more modest wealth. So what's the answer? 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! Visit dontretiregraduate.com for a full transcript of this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices