Money Mile

We like to think of Money Mile as standing at the corner of triathlon and personal finance, and we believe that age group triathletes are the lifeblood of our sport. This summer, we are going to take the opportunity to highlight some of our favorite “Questions on Course” segments from the last several months. In this episode, we're going to bring back two of our favorite financial questions from listeners. We're going to focus on the creation of an income plan for retirement and general retirement planning.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in.Welcome to Money Mile (00:00)What assumptions can you make to plan better for retirement? (00:55)Your visions for retirement? (02:38)Strengths and weaknesses in your financial planning (03:07)Common risks to be aware of (08:29)Financial needs for different phases in retirement (09:35)How do I create an income plan for my retirement? (12:30)Create a system to organize your funds (15:22)How your investment portfolio affects your retirement strategy (18:35)Resources & People MentionedBuilding Your Financial Training Plan, Ep #21 – Waller FCConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Welcome to the Money Mile podcast. I'm your host, Justin Waller, and I am happy you are here. We like to think of Money Mile as standing at the corner of triathlon and personal finance. This summer, we're taking the opportunity to highlight some of our favorite “Questions on Course" segments from the last several months. In this episode, find out what I think of 403 B loans and Social Security for your retirement planning. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...Welcome to Money Mile (00:00)How a 403(b) loan works (1:40)Why get a 403(b), and alternatives to it (4:15)What I think about social security (6:40)Future of social security (8:30)Benefits of Social Security (10:08)My recommendation about Social Security (19:54)Resources & People Mentionedssa.govConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

This summer, we will take the opportunity to highlight some of our favorite “Questions on Course" segments from the last several months. In this episode, we are going to bring back focus on the retirement planning side of things. I share my thoughts and advice when someone says, “I’ll never be able to retire”.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...Welcome to Money Mile (00:00)The 2-Phase problem for not being able to retire (01:30)How to be aware of your financial options (02:35)Four steps to reach your retirement goals (04:30)Connect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Today we have a special guest on the show, Cherie Gruenfeld. Cherie has been competing in triathlons for 33 years and completed her first Ironman triathlon when she was 48 years old. She is currently the oldest woman to complete the Iron Man World Championships at the age of 78 and the Iron Man 70.3 World Championships at the age of 80. She holds 14 Iron Man World Age Group titles and 5 Iron Man 70.3 World Age Group titles. She is the founder and director of Exceeding Expectations, a nonprofit organization helping at-risk kids in San Bernardino graduate high school and further their education. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...Welcome to Money Mile (00:00)How Cherie became interested in triathlon (01:44)How Cherie Defines success (10:30)A challenging race experience (12:00)Triathlon expense tips (17:30)Cherie’s non-profit, Exceeding Expectations (20:53)Underrated aspect of Triathlon (32:30)Why Cherie has enjoyed triathlon so long (35:50)Resources & People MentionedCherie GruenfeldExceeding ExpectationsConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Mira Panek shares her joyful mindset about her success as a self-proclaimed “accidental athlete.” She tells us how she got involved in Triathlon, her training and racing experiences, as well as her volunteer coaching of teens in the sport. Her story demonstrates how embracing opportunities can lead to fulfilling achievements. Similarly, embracing proactive strategies can enhance your financial joy. Today, I share resources to help you experience more enjoyment from your financial situation.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...Welcome to Money Mile (00:00)Resources for getting more joy from your finances (01:10)How Mira got involved in triathlon (14:13)Tips on how to get the most from your money as a triathlete (20:25)Mira’s race finishes (24:10)Misconceptions about the triathlon world (32:00)Mira’s volunteer work with Fit2Bkids (37:00)Resources & People MentionedFit 2 B KidsInstagram2017 ArticleHappy Money: The Science of Happier Spending: Dunn, Elizabeth, Norton, Dr Michael: 9781451665079: Amazon.com: BooksDie With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life: Perkins, Bill: 9780358567097: Amazon.com: BooksMoney Mile Breaking Barriers with Christina DorrerConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on...

Welcome to Money Mile. Today’s guest is Howard Freedman. Howard holds an MBA and has worked in various fields, including industrial engineering, consulting, education, payroll systems, and writing. He transitioned into mentoring the younger generation, prioritizing honest financial guidance over profit-driven sales. His focus is on helping others make informed decisions with compassion and integrity.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...Welcome to Money Mile (00:00)How Howard got started in the financial aid business (06:05)What Howard considers underrated in college aid decisions (08:45)Details on how Howard’s book can help families with the aid process (11:40)Finding purpose versus passion (18:25)How Howard defines success (20:28)Is FAFSA always necessary? (24:30)What is the Professional Judgement process? (35:05)How to reach Howard (37:45)Resources & People MentionedFinancial Aid ConsultingMaking College Happen, By Howard FreedmanConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Meet Bob Babbitt, a true legend in the athletic and humanitarian worlds. As a Co-founder of the Challenged Athletes Foundation, Bob has helped transform the lives of thousands by making sports accessible to individuals with physical challenges. His passion for storytelling shines through as the host of Babbittville Radio, where he shares inspiring conversations with endurance sports icons. A celebrated figure in the triathlon community, Bob's dedication has earned him a place in both the USA Triathlon Hall of Fame and the Ironman Triathlon Hall of Fame.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...Welcome to Money Mile (00:00)Four strategies to benefit financially while you give (01:10)Introduction to Bob Babbitt (07:10)How Challenged Athletes Foundation got started (08:35)How is CAF defining success? (12:30)Greatest challenges the organization faces today (18:30)Inspiring stories of an open funding model (33:00)What CAF has planned and how to get connected (49:24)Resources & People Mentionedhttps://www.challengedathletes.org https://babbittville.comFundraise Your Way  Challenged Athletes Foundation - YouTubeConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

In this episode, we’re joined by Diana Hassel, a 25-time Ironman finisher with 14 age group podiums at Ironman Hawaii. Diana is also a professor of equine emergency surgery at Colorado State University and has transitioned into coaching triathletes, offering personalized training and a focus on nutrition.Diana’s coaching journey began after friends sought her advice based on her success in the Ironman and 70.3 races. With a strong background in sports science, she now helps athletes of all levels through her platform, Hassel-Free Triathlon Training, offering a holistic approach to training and performance.Tune in to hear Diana’s inspiring story, valuable triathlon tips, and insights on goal-setting, coaching, and training.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...Welcome to Money Mile (00:00)I answer what type of business items are deductible (00:54)How Diana Hassel got into triathlon (07:00)How Diana defines success (08:45)Diana’s tips with finances for triathlon (10:45)How Diana trained for her 70.3 Boulder race (13:00)What Diana thinks is underrated about Triathlon (21:23)Diana admires Cherie Gruenfeld (22:35)How to connect with Diana (31:07)Resources & People MentionedHassel-Free Triathlon TrainingIRONMAN UTridot platformCherie GruenfeldConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

In this episode, Blake Anderson, a top real estate agent and endurance athlete, shares how his commitment to systems and relationships has led to success in both real estate and triathlon. From overcoming addiction to becoming a record-breaking ultramarathoner and innovating in real estate with a flat-fee model, Blake’s approach offers valuable insights for anyone looking to elevate their business or personal life. Tune in to learn how a strategic mindset can transform your work and training.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...A systemic approach to triathlon and real estate (00:00)My answer to how much house you can afford (00:53)Blake’s introduction to real estate (04:15)How Blake got started in triathlon (05:30)Systems and relationships applied to business and training (09:19)Blake’s unique and successful real estate process (11:00)How Blake became an expert in his neighborhood (22:26)How Blake invests in his community (26:30)How to connect with Blake (29:20)Resources & People MentionedFlat Fee Home SalesSterling Grove Real Estate | FacebookConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Amy’s journey into the world of triathlons is a story of passion, perseverance, and inspiration. What began as a simple bucket list item in 2002 quickly turned into a lifelong pursuit that has shaped not only her physical fitness but also her personal growth. From her first Sprint race to completing multiple Ironman triathlons, Amy’s path is one of constant challenge and self-improvement. Along the way, she’s been motivated by powerful personal stories and the desire to make a positive impact on others. In this episode, Amy shares the experiences and insights that have shaped her journey, including the reasons she races, her approach to health, and her advice for fellow athletes.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...Amy Woolsey’s Journey in Triathlon (0:00)What are available health care options after retirement? (0:53)My pro-tip to runners (6:00)How Amy got started in triathlon (8:58)How Amy defines success (11:45)Finishing 3rd at Des Moines 70.3 (13:00)Amy’s favorite aspect of being in a tri club (17:20)Amy’s tips on nutrition and recovery (19:41)What Amy wants the world to know about her journey (34:15)Resources & People MentionedThe Story of Team HoytDuTriHuma Energy GelsTrainingPeaks Training PlansConnect with Amy on FacebookConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

In this episode, we explore the power of Heart Rate Variability (HRV) as a window into your heart health—and how you can improve it. Joining us from Norway is Dr. Torkil Faero, a seasoned General Practitioner and emergency physician with 26 years of experience. Dr. Faero has practiced medicine across Norway and in war-torn Angola with Doctors Without Borders, gaining a deep understanding of the human body under extreme conditions.Beyond his medical expertise, Dr. Faero is a true renaissance man—an award-winning photographer, author, and documentary filmmaker. His latest book, The Pulse Cure, reveals how heart rate monitors and smartphones can unlock critical insights about stress, resilience, and the autonomic nervous system. With a passion for exploration, he has traveled to over 80 countries and speaks eight languages, bringing a global perspective to the conversation.Tune in as we uncover how HRV can be a game-changer for your health—and how simple tools can help you harness its power. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...Welcome back to Money Mile (00:00)How do I create an income plan for my retirement? (01:04)Introducing Dr. Torkil Faero (12:45)Lifestyle changes Dr. Faero took to get healthy (14:12)What is heart rate variability and why we should watch it (17:00)Applying HRV as a tool for preventative health (22:45)Tips to increase health longevity (26:56)Genetic component of HRV (34:58)How long does it generally take to see HRV improvements? (46:10)Dr. Torkil Faero’s new books (51:36)Resources & People MentionedThe Pulse CureBOOK: The Pulse CureFollow on InstagramConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Today, we’re joined by Kirsten Miller, a seasoned triathlete with over 22 years of experience and a board-certified sports nutritionist. Kirsten’s dedication to her family and her strategic approach to balancing training, racing, and home life have been the cornerstone of her longevity in the sport. Beyond her personal achievements, she’s passionate about helping endurance athletes optimize their health and performance through personalized nutrition strategies.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...Kirsten Miller’s Balance of Family, Triathlon, and Business (0:00)How to ensure a stable and enjoyable retirement (00:50)How Kirsten got started in triathlon (13:30)How Kirsten defines success (16:24)Kirsten’s best tips for triathlon expenses (17:45)Kirsten’s experience racing Boulder 70.3 (19:50)Kirsten’s nutrition business supporting triathletes: Nourish2Flourish (31:24)Kirsten’s turning point in her racing experience (36:00)Resources & People MentionedKirsten MillerTeam in TrainingNourish2FlourishConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

In today’s episode of Money Mile, we’re joined by Michele Cellai, a triathlete and nurse practitioner, to discuss her journey in triathlon and her career in health and wellness. Michele's passion for the sport started in the early 1980s after watching Julie Moss’s iconic Ironman finish, and she’s been racing ever since.Michele also shares her work as a nurse practitioner focusing on lifestyle medicine, a holistic approach that treats chronic diseases through lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, mindfulness, and better sleep. She is currently pursuing a certification in lifestyle medicine to help individuals improve their health through preventive care.Michele opens up about her experiences with knee injuries, including a challenging 15-month recovery after tearing her meniscus in 2023. She emphasizes the importance of being patient with your body, maintaining strength, and focusing on long-term health. She also shares a dangerous experience at Ironman Arizona, where she faced a medical emergency during the swim, offering valuable insight into recognizing and responding to serious health issues in races.Tune in for Michele’s inspiring story and learn how she balances triathlon, health, and wellness in both her personal and professional life.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...The best time to purchase long-term care insurance [00:43]How Michele got interested in triathlon [8:37]Michele’s work and certification in lifestyle medicine [9:37]How Michele defines success [11:48]Michele’s best financial choices in triathlon [14:02]Michele shares local smaller races to support [17:20]Michele’s near drowning incident during her race [21:00]Turning point in Michele’s training [29:30]What Michele would spend $100 on in triathlon [36:45]Resources & People MentionedCost of Long-Term CareConnect with Michele on LinkedInConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

In this episode of Money Mile, I sit down with Carly and Tyler, the dynamic duo behind "Organic Coaching." They share the journey of how they built a thriving online coaching business that helps time-crunched triathletes balance training with their busy lives. From their impressive athletic achievements to growing a community of over 6,000 members during the COVID-19 era, Carly and Tyler's story is a testament to the power of consistent effort and the right guidance.They discuss what success means to them—not just in athletic terms, but also in the fulfillment they've found working together, running their own business, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Tune in to hear how their philosophy and coaching approach have transformed lives worldwide.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...Strategies for a gradual retirement portfolio [00:35]How Carly and Tyler got started in their coaching business [9:25]About their Facebook support group for triathletes [11:13]Carly and Tyler’s athletic highlights [13:53]What success means to Carly and Tyler [20:39]Carly and Tyler’s best financial advice for the sport [26:32]The most underrated aspect of triathlete from a coach’s view [33:40]What Tyler and Carly want you to know [38:22]Resources & People MentionedOrganic CoachingOrganic Coaching on FacebookTriathlon Training For Time Crunched Triathletes | FacebookConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Brittany Vermeer is a triathlete and seasoned sports journalist. As a freelance writer and editorial consultant, she collaborates with top publications like Triathlete Magazine, Outside Run, Ironman, and Xterra. With six 70.3 triathlons under her belt, two World Championship qualifications, and her first full-distance Ironman completed in 2003, Brittany brings unparalleled expertise to the world of endurance sports.In this episode, Brittany shares her journey from horse show championships to triathlons and discusses her blog, TripleThreatLife, where she offers practical tips and resources for fellow athletes.During the Questions-on-Course segment, I also provide actionable advice for reducing student loan debt with the help of a specialized financial planner.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...My advice for navigating student loan debt [0:55]How Brittany got started in triathlon [5:20]How Brittany became a sports journalist [7:44]How Brittany defines success [13:13]Brittany’s experience volunteering in her local tri-club [14:54]Her best investment in triathlon [17:00]Brittany’s Blog to help triathletes [19:55]What Brittany wants people to know about her journey [35:10]Resources & People MentionedStudent Loan Planner - Get a Plan to Pay Off Your Student LoansTriple Threat LifeInstagramBrittany on LinkedInBrittany’s episode on The Inventory Genius Podcast Connect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

We’re thrilled to welcome back Rebecca “Beaker” McKee to share her incredible journey at the Ironman Championship in Nice, France, where she placed 12th. In this episode, Beaker opens up about her experience with the course, the unique challenges of competing in Nice, and how it compares to her past races in Kona.But this isn’t just a story about triathlons—it’s about resilience. Beaker shares her deeply personal battle with health challenges, including undergoing a full hysterectomy. She reveals the physical and emotional toll it took on her, her determination to recover, and how she found her way back to the sport she loves.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...How I think you should consider social security in your financial planning [0:48]You should be aware of these potential changes to social security [11:30]Beaker shares how having a full hysterectomy affected her [16:45]What Beaker hopes Ironman will do in the future for triathletes [33:30]Concerns and what was impressive about Nice, France’s courses [40:28]Comparing the financial costs of competing in Kona vs Nice [46:00]Resources & People MentionedRebecca Beaker McKeePeak Fitness CenterIRONMAN France Nice - Anything is PossibleThe United States Social Security Administration | SSAConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Today, I'm joined by Dana Bullard, a former marathon runner turned accomplished triathlete. Dana has completed 26 Ironmans, including six finishes at Kona. After years as a competitive runner through high school, college, and into her post-grad marathon career, she began to feel burnout creeping in. When a colleague invited her to try a sprint triathlon, Dana placed third—even with limited biking and swimming experience. Rediscovering the joy of competition, she embraced triathlons for their variety and the challenge to continually improve. In this conversation, Dana shares her journey to success, her strategies for overcoming obstacles, and the support system that keeps her going. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...(3:37) What success means to Dana(5:40) The best and worst investments Dana made in the sport(10:41) Dana shares her experience winning first place in an Ironman(15:00) What Dana thinks most triathletes should know(20:00) Dana’s unique independent training “community”(22:23) Who Dana admires most in the triathlon sport(30:05) Overcoming surgery for tumor and partial liver removal(34:45) What to do to improve your retirement nest eggResources & People MentionedDana BullardBlake BullardScott LottProject PodiumConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

What if syncing your workouts to your menstrual cycle could mean the difference between podium finishes and painful struggles? Kateryna Moisyeyeva—widely known as Coach Kat —has lived it. After escaping an abusive marriage and starting from scratch in triathlon, she turned personal trauma into elite-level achievements and a groundbreaking approach to coaching women.In this episode, I talk with Coach Kat about her emotional journey, how she transformed setbacks into strength, and why she believes women are setting their goals too low. We also dive deep into nutrition, the real impact of transitions, and why financial independence is a race worth training for.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...(00:00) Meet Kateryna Moisyeyeva—widely known as Coach Kat(02:20) Amy's story: The friend who sparked everything(06:08) From partner to CKTri Team(13:16) How cycle-synced training boosts female performance(27:29) Tackling perimenopause and adjusting for success(35:39) Coach Kat’s picks for $100 gearResources & People MentionedTrainingPeaksCKTri TeamGulf Coast 70.3 TriathlonTriathlete Magazine - Article about Coach Kat’s storyHow Menstrual Cycle Tracking Can Revolutionize Female Athlete TrainingThe Effects of Contraception on Female Athletes’ PerformanceConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

In this episode, I sit down with Kirsten McCay, a triathlete, coach, and personal trainer excelling in both endurance sports and motherhood. She’s won her age group at the 70.3 North American Championships twice, even after spinal surgery—showcasing her resilience and mental toughness.Kirsten talks about balancing intense training with parenting, using creative solutions like stroller runs and nap-time workouts. She also shares her coaching approach, helping busy clients make steady progress.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...(01:40) How Kirsten got started in triathlon 25 years ago(03:43) How Kirsten defines success and balance in life(08:30) Debunking the myth that expensive gear is key to performance(13:40) Mental strategies help Kirsten tackle challenging courses(23:16) Triathlon fosters personal growth beyond physical fitness(26:40) Kirsten’s turning point was when she committed fully to qualifying for KonaResources & People MentionedProgressive Evolution Coaching – Kirsten’s coaching business that helps athletes with busy schedules and ADHD achieve their goalsWestminster Waves Swim Team – Kirsten’s summer swim team for kidsConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

What does the home-buying process look like? How do you navigate interest rates? What type of loan best suits your needs? These are just a few of the questions David Gulbransen is uniquely qualified to answer. David is a loan officer in Northern California whose focus is providing the best communication, service, product knowledge, and transparency to his clients and partners. His hands-on approach quickly forms a comfortable relationship and leads to a stress-free lending process. In this conversation, David tackles common questions that new homebuyers ask in a way that everyone can understand. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...Learn more about David Gulbransen [0:19] How is real estate lending different now? [1:46] What the process looks like for homebuyers [3:00]Interest rates and their impact on homebuyers [8:58]Tips to get your finances in better shape for a home purchase [16:21]Why is refinancing gaining popularity? [21:50] Who is the right fit to work with David? [23:21] How to use gifted money for a down payment [26:02] David’s biggest accomplishment [27:19]David’s experience with construction loans [29:00] How much house can I afford? [32:53] Resources & People MentionedAnnualCreditReport.comConnect with David GulbransenDavid Gulbransen: Loan Officer | NMLS 1865199 | Access Real Estate Lendingdavid@accessloans.netConnect With Justin Wallerhttps://WallerFC.com Waller Financial Coaching on FacebookJustin on InstagramJustin on LinkedInSubscribe to MONEY MILEAudio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK