The Money and Meaning Show

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier interviews Hunter Ewing, co-founder and director of Private Lines Insurance at Higher Ground Risk. They explore the essentials of risk management, including protecting assets, managing liability, and understanding insurance coverage in today’s evolving insurance market. Hunter shares industry insights, practical advice, and personal anecdotes that highlight the importance of proactive financial protection. Topics covered: The fundamentals of risk management in personal financial planning Common types of personal insurance: home, auto, umbrella, and valuable articles coverage The impact of severe weather events on insurance costs Key considerations when purchasing flood insurance Recent industry changes in insurance underwriting and coverage Misconceptions about personal insurance and financial planning integration The importance of working with independent insurance agents Best practices for maintaining adequate insurance coverage How to evaluate insurance needs for new home purchases and renovations Useful Links: Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jeffberniercfp_the-money-and-meaning-show-activity-7202103509700227072-h0Qn/ Hunter Ewing on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hunter-ewing-5460a2a2 High Ground Company: https://www.highgroundcompany.com/copy-of-hunter-ewing  Tandem Growth Financial Advisors: https://www.tandemgrowth.com/

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier welcomes back Dr. Daniel Crosby, a New York Times bestselling author and Chief Behavioral Officer at Orion. Together, they discuss concepts from Crosby’s new book, The Soul of Wealth, exploring how financial well-being intersects with psychology and personal growth. From defining “soulful wealth” to the psychology behind money and happiness, the conversation offers practical insights on aligning financial decisions with what truly matters for a fulfilling life. Topics covered:  Overview of Dr. Crosby’s career and role as Chief Behavioral Officer at Orion  Exploring The Soul of Wealth and its unique, contemplative format  Defining “soulful wealth” and why wealth is about more than finances  The impact of meaningful work on life satisfaction and wealth  Research findings on money and happiness  Spending habits that contribute to lasting happiness and fulfillment  The link between generosity, well-being, and the concept of “wealth”  Behavioral insights for better financial decision-making  The importance of flexibility in financial planning to accommodate personal growth  Unique financial strengths and investment tendencies of women  Setting deeply personal, meaningful financial goals for stronger motivation Useful Links:  Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jeffberniercfp_the-money-and-meaning-show-activity-7202103509700227072-h0Qn/  Daniel Crosby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielcrosby  Orion: https://orion.com/  TandemGrowth Financial Advisors: https://www.tandemgrowth.com/ 

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier sits down with Sherry Finkel Murphy, founder and CEO of Madrina Molly LLC. Sherry is a seasoned financial planner who focuses on helping midlife women navigate the complexities of financial and longevity planning. They explore the challenges faced by women in the "Triple Decker Club Sandwich Generation," discuss strategies for reinventing life after 50, and dive into Sherry’s mission to provide financial education through her community platform, Madrina Molly. This conversation offers valuable insights for those seeking to align their financial resources with their personal values and life goals. Topics covered:  Challenges of the "Triple Decker Club Sandwich Generation" and its impact on midlife women.  Sherry’s career journey from financial planner to the founder of Madrina Molly.  Common financial and emotional struggles among midlife women, including shame around money.  The importance of financial education and empowering women over 50.  Strategies for reinventing life after 50, including Sherry’s concept of the “glide path.”  Insights on longevity planning and how it intersects with health, location, financial, and purpose planning.  The need for community and purpose in aging and retirement.  Balancing caregiving responsibilities with personal ambitions and business pursuits.  Building a supportive community for women navigating midlife transitions. Useful Links:  Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jeffberniercfp_the-money-and-meaning-show-activity-7202103509700227072-h0Qn/  Sherry Finkel Murphy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherryfinkelmurphy  Madrina Molly: https://www.madrinamolly.com/  Tandem Growth Financial Advisors: https://www.tandemgrowth.com/ 

In this episode of the Money & Meaning Show, host Jeff Bernier welcomes Apollo Lupescu, Vice President of Dimensional Fund Advisors. Apollo, known as the “Secretary of Explaining Stuff,” discusses how investors can make sense of financial markets during election years. He shares his insights on investment philosophies, the impact of political events on markets, and strategies for maintaining focus amidst noise. Tune in to learn how to make more informed investment decisions in politically charged times.  Topics Covered:  Introduction to Apollo Lupescu and his journey with Dimensional Fund Advisors  Overview of Dimensional’s investment philosophy and core principles  How to think about market uncertainty during election years  The historical performance of markets during election years and what investors can learn  Debunking common myths about the impact of political policies on specific sectors  Evaluating the economic burden of national debt and its influence on investment strategies  The importance of focusing on data-driven decisions over emotional reactions  Final thoughts on separating politics from investment decisions  Useful Links:  Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn  Apollo on LinkedIn  Dimensional Fund Advisors  TandemGrowth Financial Advisors   

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier talks with James Grace, Director of Wealth Management at Silver Pine Capital and host of the Modern Financial Wellness podcast. They explore the evolving nature of the wealth management industry, emphasizing holistic financial planning that encompasses not just financial health but also personal fulfillment and purpose. James shares his journey through the financial services landscape and offers insights into how individuals can achieve financial wellness and well-being. Together, they discuss the importance of aligning actions and resources with personal values and goals. Topics covered: Introduction to James Grace and his role at Silver Pine Capital. Evolution of the wealth management industry toward holistic planning. Differences between financial wellness and financial well-being. James's career path from biotech sales to wealth management. The role of behavioral finance and client discovery in financial planning. The significance of aligning financial strategies with personal values. The importance of ongoing financial advice and support. Business models in the financial advisory industry. Insights from the Modern Financial Wellness podcast. Useful Links: Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn James Grace on LinkedIn Silver Pine Capital Modern Financial Wellness Podcast TandemGrowth Financial Advisors

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier speaks with Gabrielle Welter, a retirement solutions manager at Finance of America. They explore the topic of reverse mortgages, dispelling common myths and misconceptions. Gabrielle explains how these financial tools can provide stability and peace of mind for retirees, addressing key challenges like healthcare costs and market volatility. The discussion delves into the specifics of Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECMs), including their benefits, costs, and strategic uses in retirement planning. Topics Covered: Introduction to reverse mortgages and common misconceptions Gabrielle Welter's background and career journey The evolution and safety measures of reverse mortgages Strategic uses of HECMs in retirement planning The financial and psychological benefits of reverse mortgages Differences between HECMs and traditional mortgages Suitability and scenarios for using reverse mortgages Costs and insurance protection associated with HECMs Resources for further information on reverse mortgages Useful Links: Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn Gabrielle Welter on LinkedIn Finance of America TandemGrowth Financial Advisors

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier interviews Larry Swedroe, a renowned author and expert in evidence-based investing. They discuss Larry's journey and contributions to the financial industry, his approach to investment strategies, and the importance of diversifying portfolios. Larry shares insights on financial planning, the role of fixed income, and the benefits of alternative investments. This episode offers valuable advice for retirees and those seeking a robust investment strategy. Topics Covered Larry Swedroe's career and contributions to financial education Importance of evidence-based investing Historical performance of various asset classes Role of fixed income in portfolios Benefits and risks of alternative investments Challenges retirees face in financial planning Behavioral aspects of investing Diversification and its impact on portfolio performance Useful Links: Larry Swedroe on LinkedIn Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn TandemGrowth Financial Advisors

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier interviews Paul Ollinger, a former Facebook employee turned stand-up comedian and podcast host of Crazy Money. They discuss Paul's journey from the corporate world to comedy, exploring the themes of finding purpose and meaning beyond financial success. The episode offers valuable insights for mid-to-late career executives planning their next steps and navigating life's transitions. Topics covered: Transitioning from a corporate career to pursuing personal passions Challenges and realizations in leaving a high-stress job for stand-up comedy Impact of Facebook's rapid growth on Paul's career decisions Finding purpose and fulfillment beyond financial success Emotional and psychological challenges of retirement Advice for planning life after a corporate career Dangers of constant comparison in affluent communities Importance of meditation, presence, and personal growth Useful Links: Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn Paul Ollinger on LinkedIn Crazy Money Podcast Tandem Growth Financial Advisors

Join Host Jeff Bernier and Guest Ryan Frederick, founder of the Here movement, as they delve into the importance of place planning and healthy longevity. From personal journeys to proactive wealth management, this episode offers insights into living a fulfilling second half of life. Here is a movement to reshape how we live by helping people better understand the importance of place and by creating tools and frameworks for individuals to make more informed decisions about where to call home.  According to Ryan, Where You Live Matters. Where you live is much more than a physical place. It is one of the most important decisions you make. It shapes your purpose, relationships, health, financial wellbeing and more. Topics Covered: Introduction to holistic wealth management Ryan's journey from Silicon Valley to thought leader in healthy longevity Aligning spirituality and purpose in life Balancing present enjoyment with future preparation The impact of place on well-being and aging Recommendations for a balanced approach to planning Ryan's book, "Right Place, Right Time," and resources on here.life The evolving role of place planning in wealth management Are you in the right place for a long, health and financially secure life? Take Ryan's free assessment. Ryan's book: Right Place, Right Time: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Home for the Second Half of Life Interested in learning more about holistic wealth management? Check out TandemGrowth Financial Advisors.

In this enlightening episode of The Money & Meaning Show, host Jeff Bernier teams up with Dr. Jordan Hutchison, a leading figure in wealth management and psychology, to explore the concept of flow in financial advising. Dr. Hutchison, who serves as Vice President of Technology and Operations at RFG Advisory and is an adjunct professor for Kaplan's College for Financial Planning, shares how integrating behavioral finance and positive psychology can amplify personal fulfillment through financial clarity. What is "Flow"? What benefits can it provide for advisors and clients? Dr. Hutchison explains the concept of flow as a state of deep absorption in activities that are intrinsically motivating and enjoyable. Examples from various fields such as music, sports, and crafts like knitting demonstrate how flow can enhance productivity and satisfaction across different activities. Dr. Hutchison describes how "flow" can lead to an increase in productivity, creativity, and well-being. What is Technology's Role in Financial Advising? Will AI replace human advisors? Dr. Hutchison discusses integrating technology to optimize financial advisors' work environments, enabling them to spend more time on meaningful client interactions. He emphasizes the importance of the human element in financial advising, asserting the irreplaceable nature of personal connections despite advances in AI and automation. How Can Incorporating Behavioral Science into Designing Tech Solutions Improve the Experience? The application of behavioral science principles in designing technology solutions to create environments that foster productivity and satisfaction is highlighted.

Host Jeff Bernier and guest Rachael Levine, partner at Peltoma Capital Partners and creator of "Tripping Millennial," delve into the enriching power of experiences over material wealth. In this episode, you'll discover: Rachel's journey from seeking financial stability to embracing a life filled with travel and personal growth 🌐 The impact of an "adult gap year" on personal growth and happiness (Rachael's took her to over 36 countries!) 😊 How Rachael says we can experience the world more deeply through sabbaticals, remote work experiences, and long term travel opportunities 🌍 acquiring experiences > acquiring things A debate on the F.I.R.E. (Financial Independence Retire Early) movement and the potential pitfalls of the movement 🔥 Tips for balancing career, passion projects, and adventure 🌟 ➡️➡️ Click here to view full video! ⬅️⬅️ We'd love to hear your ideas on topics you'd like covered in future episodes! Please feel free to email: moneyandmeaning@tandemgrowth.com. Find out more about Rachael Levine 👇 https://www.peltomacapital.com/team/rachael-levine Tripping Millenial 🗺️ https://www.trippingmillennial.com/ https://www.instagram.com/trippingmillennial/ Interested in knowing more about Jeff? View his latest release here 📖 https://www.jeffbernierauthor.com/ Interested in knowing more about TandemGrowth Financial Advisors? 🪴https://www.tandemgrowth.com/ TandemGrowth Financial Advisors (“TandemGrowth”), a registered investment adviser, is providing this podcast which is intended for general educational purposes and is not personalized investment advice. The information provided is not tailored to any individual's specific investment objectives, financial situation, or risk tolerance. Registration as an investment adviser is not an endorsement by securities regulators and does not imply that TandemGrowth has attained a certain level of skill, training, or ability. While the content that will be presented is believed to be factual and up to date, it is based on information obtained from a variety of sources. TandemGrowth believes this information is reliable, however, it has not necessarily been independently verified. TandemGrowth does not guarantee the complete accuracy of all data in this video, and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the presenter as of the date of the webinar and are subject to change. This video does not constitute personalized advice from TandemGrowth or its affiliated investment professionals, or a solicitation to execute specific securities transactions. Participants should not use any of this content as the sole basis for any investment, financial planning, tax, legal or other decisions. TandemGrowth is neither a law firm, nor a certified public accounting firm, and no portion of the video content should be construed as legal or accounting advice. We encourage attendees to conduct independent research and seek advice from qualified professionals before making any investment decisions. The information presented in this video should not be the sole basis for investment decisions. Past performance does not guarantee future results. All investment strategies have the potential for profit or loss, and different investments and types of investments involve varying degrees of risk. There can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, including those undertaken or recommended by TandemGrowth, will be profitable or equal any historical performance level. Additional information about our Firm, including its Form ADV Part 2A describing its services, fees, and applicable conflicts of interest and Form CRS is available upon request and at www.tandemgrowth.com.

Host Jeff Bernier welcomes guests Doug and Heather Boneparth to this episode! Doug and Heather delve into the key elements of fostering a healthy financial relationship between partners: 🤝 Connection: Start by initiating conversations about your money beliefs and behaviors, using resources like therapist-guided questionnaires to guide the discussion. 🗣️ Communication: Schedule dedicated times for distraction-free discussions, ensuring both partners have the space to express their thoughts and feelings about finances without interruptions. ➕ Contribution: Recognize and honor each other's contributions to the relationship, going beyond financial aspects to include personal contributions and household responsibilities. 🛠️ Collaboration: Establish transparency by understanding where money is coming from and going, utilizing tools like net worth tables and budgeting spreadsheets to facilitate productive conversations about financial decisions. ⏰ Consistency: Commit to regular check-ins, ideally on a quarterly basis, to review changes in net worth, spending habits, and overall financial goals, fostering long-term financial health and relationship strength. ----more----Check out Doug and Heather's book 📙 https://bonefidewealth.com/millennial-money-fix/ Check out Jeff's book 📗 https://www.jeffbernierauthor.com/ ----more---- Interested in knowing more about TandemGrowth Financial Advisors? 🪴https://www.tandemgrowth.com/  

Join host Jeff Bernier, President of TandemGrowth Financial Advisors, and guest Ben Felix, Portfolio Manager and Head of Research at PWL Capital, for an enlightening episode of The Money & Meaning Show. Ben Felix shares insights from renowned experts in academia and the financial industry, shedding light on the consensus that owning the market portfolio through low-cost index funds is an excellent starting point for most investors. The conversation also explores the nuances of differentiating from the market—a point of contention among experts. Furthermore, they discuss Professor Scott Cederberg whose research focuses on the long-horizon performance of a range of asset classes and investment types and what the implications may be for retail investors, challenging conventional wisdom that stocks always outperform in the long run and advocating for global diversification. Ben Felix shares insights from interviews with retirement experts, highlighting the importance of embracing uncertainty as investors. Jeff and Ben highlight the role of financial advisors in helping clients navigate uncertainty, creating portfolios aligned with their goals, and providing reassurance during market downturns. The discussion underscores that the art of financial planning and advisory services and how it complements the scientific analysis of asset allocation, as clients' trust and the ability to stick with a chosen strategy are crucial factors in long-term success.   #Investing #EvidenceBasedInvesting #LongTermInvesting

In this special year-end episode of The Money & Meaning Show, host Jeff Bernier delves into the theme of positivity and optimism. Despite the challenges and negativity that often dominate the headlines and social media, Jeff presents a data-driven perspective on the progress humanity has made in various aspects of life. Drawing from historical and contemporary data, he shares insights on economic growth, poverty reduction, increased life expectancy, and more. Jeff encourages listeners to adopt a rational optimism mindset and reflects on how focusing on the positive can inspire personal growth and a sense of purpose. This episode serves as a refreshing reminder to appreciate the progress we've made and look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead in 2024.

Join host Jeff Bernier and special guest Wealth Advisor Mona Fahmy as they dive into the world of year-end financial planning and what it may entail at different life stages. Whether you're still advancing your career and focused on building wealth or navigating retirement, this episode is packed with insights regarding items you might consider for an end of year financial checklist. Learn more about items to review at year end related to open enrollment, tax efficiency, healthcare, charitable giving, cash flow, portfolio management, estate planning, and more! 🎧 Listen to the episode on your favorite podcast provider or download the episode by clicking here.. 📽️ Watch the full episode on YouTube by clicking here. TandemGrowth Financial Advisors (“TandemGrowth”), a registered investment adviser, is providing this podcast which is intended for general educational purposes and is not personalized investment advice.   #financialplanningchecklist #financialreview  

Host Jeff Bernier welcomes special guest Matt Reiner to explore a wide range of topics that are at the forefront of the financial advisory world: The curse of knowledge: Learn why it's crucial for leaders and growing entrepreneurs to balance their experience with a willingness to adapt and allow new ideas to flourish within their organizations. Unique challenges of family businesses: Matt shares his personal experiences and lessons learned from working in a family business.  Finding a financial advisor: Learn how to trust your instincts and build a relationship that's based on trust, comfort, and authenticity. The authentic culture of a firm will ooze from its employees. Are financial advisors at risk of being replaced by AI? Jeff and Matt discuss how AI is transforming the industry and why the human touch remains invaluable. They explore the evolving value proposition of financial advisors and how AI can ultimately benefit clients. Creating space for creativity: Being purposeful with time and allowing oneself to become bored can be helpful for fostering creativity. Matt encourages maintaining a constant level of curiosity and looking beyond one's immediate field of expertise to gain new perspectives and ideas. Matt Reiner is a CFA® Charterholder, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and partner at Capital Investment Advisors, a RIA in Atlanta, Georgia. Additionally, Matt is the managing partner of Wela Strategies, a RIA that deals with the investment needs of the mass affluent.   Jeff Bernier is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, Certified Fund Specialist, Chartered Financial Consultant, and President of TandemGrowth Financial Advisors, LLC a RIA in Alpharetta, GA. He has been providing personalized financial advice to individuals and families since 1986. Jeff is the author of The Money & Meaning Journey: A guide to clarity, financial confidence, and joy.

Host Jeff Bernier, CFP®, ChFC, CFS welcomes guest Wes Crill, Senior Investment Director and Vice President, Dimensional Fund Advisors, to The Money & Meaning Show podcast! In this episode, Wes and Jeff dive deep into the world of investments! They cover a wide range of topics, including: 💰👩‍⚕️Understanding the difference between financial capital and human capital and how their impact and risk profile change throughout our lives 🌟 Exploring the fundamentals of factor investing, the characteristics associated with higher expected returns, and how to determine how far to tilt 🪙 Delving into the world of fixed income, its relevance when cash is yielding nearly 5%, and discussing strategies to manage different types of risks with it 🤖 Wes's intriguing perspective on Artificial Intelligence and its potential impact (or lack thereof) on capital markets and investment strategies. #MoneyAndMeaning #InvestmentInsights #FactorInvesting #ArtificialIntelligence #FinancialIntelligence Dimensional Fund Advisors, founded in 1981, has a long history of applying academic research to practical investing. They offer a full range of equity and fixed income strategies designed to target higher expected returns. Learn more by clicking here.   TandemGrowth Financial Advisors, founded in 2003, offers you a big advantage: an on-call financial advisor who will get to know you and collaborate with you. TandemGrowth believes the high value they place on client relationships sets them apart from other investment advisors. Together, you and TandemGrowth can create a customized financial strategy and they'll be there to help navigate all of life’s financial choices. Learn more by clicking here.    

In today's episode, host Jeff Bernier, CFP®, ChFC, CFS welcomes special guest Bruce Johnsen, a former US Navy line officer, Vietnam veteran, and current management consultant to share his inspiring journey from the Navy to consultancy. Bruce reflects on his early days in the Navy and struggles he faced when retiring at the early age of 45. Bruce shares some interesting stories from many years of international work and goes on to offer the life lessons he has learned so far at 85 years young. Jeff and Bruce delve into an insightful discussion on Mitch Anthony's concept "work" and how the role and reason for work evolves through one's lifetime. 

Join host Jeff Bernier in a profound exploration alongside best-selling author Dr. Allen Hunt as they delve into the concept of living a life without regrets. Can it truly be accomplished? Drawing upon his moniker as the renowned "Fourth Quarter Guy" and a wealth of extensive research on aging, dying, and regrets, Dr. Hunt delves into the 8 common regrets that haunt the dying. From these findings, he unearths 5 fundamental keys that pave the way towards living and departing without regrets. No matter what quarter of life you are in, prepare to be inspired as they share invaluable insights on how you can incorporate these keys into your life and financial plan!

Navigating Social Security can be tricky and confusing. That's why we invited special guest Alicia Lipscomb to The Money & Meaning Show to share her expertise on maximizing Social Security benefits.  Alicia has been with the Social Security Administrator for over 22 years, and she will help you understand the ins-and-outs of Social Security so that you can make sure you are getting the most out of your benefits. In this podcast, she'll go over strategies to maximize payments, tips for spousal benefits, and much more.   Tune in now for all these tips and more!