The Agent of Wealth

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Whether you’re negotiating a business deal, discussing finances, or navigating everyday disagreements, the ability to communicate effectively can change the outcome.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, the Bautis Financial team discusses another book in their Book Club series: Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It–Unlock Your Persuasion Potential in Professional and Personal Life by Chris Voss and Tahl Raz.

The book explores the psychology behind successful negotiations and reveals how techniques used by FBI hostage negotiators can be applied to everyday conversations — from business decisions and client relationships to personal interactions. Rather than focusing on winning arguments, Chris Voss emphasizes the importance of understanding people, building trust, and creating better outcomes through effective communication.

In this episode, we discuss:

Why negotiation is less about convincing others and more about understanding their perspective.
How tactical empathy, labeling, and mirroring can help build trust and improve conversations.
Why emotions play a major role in decision-making and how to navigate them effectively.
The importance of asking better questions to uncover challenges and create stronger commitments.
How negotiation strategies can apply to financial planning conversations with clients
And more!

Tune in for a conversation about one of the most influential books on persuasion and human behavior.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It–Unlock Your Persuasion Potential in Professional and Personal Life | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send us a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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Money is one of the most powerful tools in a relationship — but when it's used to control instead of support, the consequences can be devastating.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, host Marc Bautis is joined by Amanda J. Scott, author of Finding My Way Back to Me. After enduring 17 years of emotional and financial abuse, Amanda now helps survivors recognize the warning signs of abuse, reclaim their independence and rebuild their lives. Together, Marc and Amanda discuss what financial abuse looks like, why it's often so difficult to recognize, and how survivors can begin the journey toward healing and financial empowerment.

In this episode, you will learn:

How emotional abuse often lays the foundation for financial abuse and why the two frequently go hand in hand.
The subtle warning signs of financial abuse — including isolation, control over money and the gradual loss of confidence and independence.
How friends and family can support someone they believe may be experiencing abuse.
The financial and emotional challenges survivors face after leaving an abusive relationship — and the resources available to help them rebuild.
And more!

Tune in for an important conversation that sheds light on a frequently overlooked form of abuse, offering practical insights, hope and encouragement for survivors and those who want to support them.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | amandajscott.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send us a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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Is AI increasing your company's value—or putting it at risk of falling behind?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, co-host John Williams is joined by Ted Wolf, CEO and Founder of Guidewise.ai and author of The Intelligent Business Equation. Ted shares why artificial intelligence is becoming a key driver of private company value, how business owners should approach AI implementation, and what buyers and investors will be looking for in the years ahead.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why AI adoption is quickly becoming a factor in private company valuations—and what happens if businesses fail to adapt.
The three foundational steps every business should take before implementing AI.
How AI can reduce operational risk, improve productivity, and make a business more attractive to buyers.
Why the future of work will depend as much on critical thinking and emotional intelligence as it does on technical skills.
And more!

Tune in for an insightful conversation on how business owners can use AI strategically—not just to improve efficiency today, but to build a more valuable, resilient, and future-ready company.

Resources:

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send us a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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Could your cryptocurrency disappear overnight — and if it did, would anyone be responsible? As digital assets become more mainstream, so do the scams, security failures, and legal questions surrounding them…

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Courtney M. Werning, Principal at Meyer Wilson Werning and leader of the firm's cryptocurrency litigation practice. Courtney has spent more than a decade helping investors recover losses caused by financial institutions, securities fraud, and cryptocurrency-related misconduct.

Together, they explore the hidden risks of crypto investing, the rise of increasingly sophisticated scams, and what investors should know if their digital assets are compromised.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why many crypto losses aren't simply the result of market volatility — and when investors may have legal options.
The most common cryptocurrency scams, including social engineering attacks, account takeovers, phishing schemes, and recovery scams.
Why Gen Z is being targeted by scammers more frequently than any other generation, despite growing up in a digital-first world.
Practical steps investors can take to better protect themselves from fraud, AI-powered scams, and cybersecurity threats.
And more!

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | meyerwilson.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send us a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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Before you hire your first employee, file your first patent or bring on a co-founder, there are a few legal decisions that can determine whether your startup succeeds—or struggles.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Philip Crowley, startup advisor, attorney, founder of Crowley Law LLC and author of Avoid Startup Failure. Drawing on decades of experience at Johnson & Johnson and advising technology startups, Philip shares the legal pitfalls entrepreneurs commonly overlook—and how avoiding them can protect both their innovations and their equity.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why founders should establish the right legal entity early—and how the choice between an LLC and a corporation can impact both liability protection and future tax benefits.
The costly mistakes entrepreneurs make when negotiating term sheets, protecting intellectual property and waiting too long to seek legal guidance.
Why written agreements with employees, contractors and co-founders are essential for protecting your company's intellectual property and attracting investors.
How vesting schedules, founder agreements and thoughtful planning can prevent disputes and preserve long-term value as your business grows.
And more!

Tune in for practical legal strategies every entrepreneur should know before launching, hiring, raising capital or bringing a new product to market.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Avoid Startup Failure: Learn the Top 10 Causes of Failure for Technology Startups and How to Turn Them to Your Advantage by Philip Crowley | https://crowleylawllc.com | Email: info@crowleylawllc.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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What's the biggest threat to your retirement? It might not be inflation or market volatility. It could be losing your strength, mobility, and independence.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, co-host John Williams is joined by Susan Brady, a physical therapist, integrative health practitioner, and bone health expert with more than 30 years of experience. Susan shares why building wealth for retirement is only part of the equation — and how maintaining your strength, mobility, and independence can help you fully enjoy the years you've worked so hard to reach.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why exercise becomes even more important as we age — and why everyday activities alone aren't enough to preserve muscle and bone.
How nutrition, gut health, and proper protein intake play a critical role in maintaining bone density and preventing fractures.
Why falls — not just osteoporosis — are one of the biggest threats to independence in retirement, and practical ways to reduce your risk.
How Susan's holistic BONES Method helps people build stronger bones naturally through lifestyle, nutrition, movement, and personalized care.
And more!

Tune in for actionable strategies to protect your health, stay active, and maintain the independence needed to enjoy a long, fulfilling retirement.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | nurturedbones.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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Your condo or co-op may be your biggest investment—but is poor board governance quietly reducing its value?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, co-host John Williams is joined by Tina Larsson, Co-Founder of The Folson Group, New York's premier co-op and condo consulting firm. After uncovering $340,000 in unnecessary expenses in her own building, Tina left a successful Wall Street career to help co-op and condo boards improve governance, strengthen financial oversight, and protect property values. Together, they discuss how effective leadership, proactive planning, and informed decision-making can make a significant difference for property owners and prospective buyers alike.

In this episode, you will learn:

How board governance directly impacts property values, monthly fees, and long-term building health.
What buyers should look for beyond financial statements before purchasing a condo or co-op.
Why serving on your building's board may be one of the best ways to protect your largest investment.
Practical strategies boards can use to improve operations, reduce unnecessary costs, and plan proactively for the future.
And more!

Tune in for an insightful conversation on how stronger governance can help preserve property values, improve communities, and avoid costly mistakes before they happen.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | The Folson Group | Living the High Life | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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What if a single form you filled out decades ago could override your will and completely change where your assets end up?

For millions of Americans, outdated beneficiary designations create costly estate planning mistakes that can leave loved ones fighting legal battles, paying unnecessary fees, or losing inheritances altogether.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis explains why beneficiary designations are one of the most overlooked components of a financial plan. Through real-life examples and practical guidance, Marc breaks down how retirement accounts, life insurance policies, brokerage accounts, and bank accounts are transferred after death — and why keeping your beneficiary information current is essential to protecting your family's financial future.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why beneficiary designations often override your will and trust documents.
How outdated or missing beneficiaries can create expensive legal and probate complications.
The difference between assets that pass through probate and those that transfer directly to beneficiaries.
How to conduct a comprehensive beneficiary audit across all of your financial accounts.
And more!

Tune in for a step-by-step guide to reviewing your beneficiary designations, avoiding common estate planning pitfalls, and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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SpaceX is poised to become one of the world's most valuable public companies overnight. The question is: does the opportunity justify the risk?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis takes a deep dive into the highly anticipated SpaceX IPO. Rather than offering a simple buy-or-sell recommendation, Marc breaks down the company's S-1 filing, explores the business segments driving its massive valuation, and examines both the opportunities and risks facing potential investors.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why SpaceX's expected $1.77 trillion valuation makes it one of the largest companies in the world from day one.
How Starlink, launch services, and the integration of xAI are shaping SpaceX's growth story and future potential.
The biggest risks hidden in the IPO prospectus, including cash burn, valuation concerns, governance issues, and Elon Musk dependency.
A practical framework for determining whether a high-profile IPO belongs in your portfolio.
And more!

From Starlink and artificial intelligence to Elon Musk's influence and the realities of IPO investing, this episode provides a framework for evaluating one of the most talked-about investment opportunities in recent memory.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog |Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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You've spent years building equity in your home — but when does it make sense to actually put that equity to work?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, co-host John Williams breaks down the three most common ways homeowners access their home equity: Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs), Home Equity Loans, and Cash-Out Refinancing. He explains how each strategy works, where each one may fit, and the advantages and risks homeowners should consider before borrowing against their home.

In this episode, you will learn:

The key differences between HELOCs, Home Equity Loans, and Cash-Out Refinancing.
When each home equity strategy may make sense.
The potential benefits and risks of borrowing against your home.
How home equity decisions fit into a broader financial plan.
And more!

Tune in for a practical framework that can help you determine which home equity option best aligns with your cash flow needs, borrowing goals, and overall financial plan.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Common Home Equity Options (Cheat Sheet) | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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The easy 5% returns on cash may be disappearing — but that doesn’t mean your money has to stop working hard.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis breaks down one of the biggest shifts happening in personal finance right now: the decline of high-yield cash account rates. After two years of earning 5%+ in savings accounts and money markets, many investors are wondering where to move their cash next.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why high-yield savings accounts and money market funds are no longer paying what they did just a year ago.
The differences between money market funds, CDs, Treasuries, I Bonds, municipal bonds, annuities, and dividend-paying stocks.
How to evaluate cash investments using the four pillars: risk, liquidity, rate, and taxes.
Tax-efficient strategies that can help high-income investors potentially keep more of their returns.
And more!

Tune in for an in-depth discussion on how to reposition cash in a falling-rate environment, the importance of matching investments to your time horizon, and why the highest yield isn’t always the best after-tax outcome for your financial plan.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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What if success has less to do with talent — and more to do with how we learn, adapt, and grow over time?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses another book in their Book Club series: Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things by Adam Grant.

In Hidden Potential, Adam Grant argues that achievement isn’t reserved for naturally gifted people. Instead, lasting success comes from developing character skills like resilience, coachability, adaptability, and persistence. Through research, storytelling, and practical examples, Grant explains how embracing discomfort, learning from failure, and rethinking traditional ideas about talent can help people accomplish more than they thought possible.

In this episode, we discuss:

Why becoming a “human sponge” can accelerate learning and personal growth.
The difference between perfectionism and “imperfectionism” — and why small improvements compound over time.
How transforming hard work into “deliberate play” can make practice more sustainable and effective.
Why getting stuck is often a sign that it’s time to adapt, pivot, or become a beginner again.
How hidden potential is often overlooked in schools, workplaces, sports, and even within ourselves.
And more!

Tune in for an insightful conversation on growth mindset, continuous improvement, leadership, resilience, and the hidden factors that help people achieve greater things — both professionally and personally.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Episode 125 - Bautis Financial Book Club: Think Again by Adam Grant | Episode 151 - The Spanx Story: Sara Blakely’s Incredible Journey to Success | Episode 75 - Bautis Financial Book Club: Atomic Habits by James Clear | The Real Engine Behind Wealth: How Compound Interest Builds Fortunes | Episode 284 - Excellence vs Perfection In Money and Health With Stanley Bronstein | Episode 109 - Bautis Financial Book Club: Stacked: Your Super-Serious Guide to Modern Money Management | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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A heartbreaking story. A growing threat. And a practical framework every family should know before it’s too late.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis explores the rise of modern financial scams — from romance fraud and investment schemes to AI-generated deepfakes that can mimic the voices and faces of loved ones. Through the real-life story of a woman manipulated out of $1.2 million, Marc explains why today’s scams are more sophisticated, emotional, and dangerous than ever before.

In this episode, you will learn:

How scammers exploit psychological triggers like urgency, trust, and fear.
Why AI-powered deepfakes are creating a new level of financial risk.
The P.R.O.O.F. Framework for spotting and responding to scams.
Simple family protection strategies — including creating a shared family password.
And more!

Tune in for an eye-opening conversation about protecting your finances, your identity, and the people you love in an increasingly digital world.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Scam Defense Guide | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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What if one investment could potentially reduce your tax bill today and generate income tomorrow? Oil and gas investing might not be as out-of-reach — or as risky-as-you-think.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, co-host John Williams is joined by Courtney Moeller, an oil and gas investor, entrepreneur, and Navy veteran who helps high-income earners reduce their tax burden and build passive income through alternative investments.

In this episode, you will learn:

How oil and gas investments can potentially offset W-2 and active income through powerful tax advantages like Intangible Drilling Costs (IDCs).
The key risks involved in oil and gas investing, including drilling outcomes, oil price fluctuations, and deal structure.
How to evaluate opportunities, from choosing the right operator and basin to understanding breakeven prices and diversification strategies.
Why oil and gas still plays a critical role in the global economy — far beyond just fueling your car.
And more!

Tune in for an inside look at how oil and gas investing works, who it may be right for, and how it can fit into a broader financial strategy focused on tax efficiency, diversification, and long-term wealth building.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | ironhorseenergyfunds.com | courtneymoeller.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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Most business owners think the path to growth is doing more — but what if that mindset is actually holding you back?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, co-host John Williams is joined by David McGhee, a Business Performance Coach with over 20 years of experience helping six-figure business owners scale to seven figures — without burning out.

David shares why focusing less on growth can actually accelerate it, and how aligning your vision, leadership, and daily operations is the real key to breaking through plateaus.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why high performers often confuse activity with real progress — and how to fix it.
How shifting from “goals” to “targets” can improve execution and reduce frustration.
The three biggest mistakes business owners make when trying to scale.
Why money is a mechanism — not the end goal — and how to align your business with what truly matters.
How shorter work cycles (like 6-week sprints) can dramatically improve productivity and results.
The difference between coaching, mentoring, training, and teaching — and which one you actually need
And more!

Tune in to learn how to break through growth ceilings, reclaim your time, and build a business that supports your life — not consumes it.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | coachdavemcghee.com | @CoachDaveMcGhee | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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After discovering a community of 470,000 single parents, one expert realized something surprising: no one was teaching the practical side of doing it alone.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Pat Hankin, business professional, parenting expert, and author of The Field Guide for Single Parents— a practical, no-fluff resource designed to help solo parents navigate the real-world challenges of money, time, and support systems.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why time and money are deeply connected — and how understanding the value of your time can transform your financial decisions.
How to build a “composite partner” by creating systems and support networks that replace what a second adult might typically provide.
The financial realities of separation, including why expenses don’t simply get cut in half — and how to adjust your mindset accordingly.
Practical tools and strategies to reduce overwhelm, track your responsibilities, and regain a sense of control and agency.
And more!

Tune in for a candid, empowering conversation on navigating single parenthood with confidence, letting go of perfection, and recognizing the strength and skills you already have.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | pathankin.com | The Field Guide for Single Parents | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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Most renters accept the listed price — but what if that’s your biggest mistake?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, co-host John Williams is joined by Justin Pogue, founder of Rental Secrets, to uncover how renters can better understand landlord psychology — and use it to their advantage.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why landlords are highly motivated to fill vacancies — and how that creates opportunity for renters.
How leasing agents create urgency (and how to avoid falling into that trap).
Why “market rent” isn’t as objective as it sounds — and how to find better comps.
Practical negotiation strategies that can help renters save thousands over the life of a lease.
And more!

Tune in to uncover how shifting your mindset — from tenant to informed negotiator — can completely change your rental experience and put real money back in your pocket.

Resources:

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

Rental Secrets: Reduce Your Rent - Get Better Value - Create Quality Communities (1)

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America’s aging population is creating one of the most powerful demographic trends of the next two decades — and it’s reshaping opportunities in real estate. But senior living is far more complex than traditional multifamily investing. From staffing challenges to operational improvements and investor structures, understanding the sector requires a unique blend of healthcare expertise and real estate strategy.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, host Marc Bautis is joined by Radhika Rastogi, Co-Founder of Relik Capital Group, a senior-living real estate investment firm focused on acquiring and repositioning underperforming senior living communities.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why demographics are creating massive demand for senior living — and why supply hasn’t kept up.
How senior living investments differ from traditional multifamily real estate, including unique revenue streams like level-of-care fees.
The strategy behind repositioning underperforming senior living communities to improve operations, occupancy, and investor returns.
How syndication deals are structured, including preferred returns, refinancing strategies, and capital return timelines for investors.
The biggest risks in senior living investments, including staffing challenges and legal considerations.
And more!

Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how senior living communities operate as both healthcare environments and real estate investments — and why many investors are beginning to pay attention to this rapidly growing asset class.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | www.relikcapitalgroup.com | Connect with Radhika Rastogi on LinkedIn | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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What if the best way to solve problems… is to stop them from happening in the first place?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses another book in their Book Club series: Upstream: The Quest to Solve Problems Before They Happen by Dan Heath.

Through real-world examples and insights from the book, the team explores why organizations often get stuck reacting to problems instead of preventing them — and what it takes to shift toward upstream thinking.

In this episode, we discuss:

Why many problems persist due to the “diffusion of responsibility” — and how assigning clear ownership is critical to preventing recurring issues.
How “tunneling” keeps individuals and organizations stuck in reactive mode, constantly solving urgent problems without addressing the root causes upstream.
Why changing outcomes often requires redesigning systems — not just asking people within those systems to work harder or behave differently.
How identifying leverage points, early warning signals and meaningful metrics can help organizations detect problems sooner and measure whether prevention efforts are truly working.
And more!

Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on how upstream thinking can lead to better decision-making, stronger systems and fewer crises — whether you’re running a business, managing a team or simply trying to improve processes in your everyday life.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Upstream: The Quest to Solve Problems Before They Happen | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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What happens when systems designed to succeed are actually built to fail? In today’s episode, we explore why growth-at-all-costs can undermine even the most well-intentioned organizations.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, co-host John Williams is joined by Eugene Theodore, strategist, former photojournalist, and author of Built to Collapse, to uncover the hidden forces shaping modern business, innovation, and leadership.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why hard work alone isn’t enough — and how the systems around us often determine success or failure.
How innovation and growth can backfire when metrics and incentives aren’t aligned with long-term sustainability.
The risks of adopting technology trends, like AI, without considering systemic consequences.
Three guiding principles — be of service, be sustainable, be of significance — that can help individuals and organizations thrive.
And more!

Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the unseen pressures in business, the consequences of short-term thinking, and practical insights for creating lasting impact in your work and life.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | eugenetheodore.com | Built to Collapse | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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Perfection is a trap. Excellence is a system.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Stanley Bronstein — attorney, CPA, life coach, and creator of The Way of Excellence — to explore the powerful difference between perfection and excellence, and why that distinction can transform your health, wealth, and life.

After losing more than 220 pounds and maintaining that transformation for nearly 17 years, Stanley shares the mindset shift that made lasting change possible — and how the same principles apply to financial success, personal growth, and long-term fulfillment.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why perfection is a losing strategy.
The “Beat Yesterday” philosophy.
Four simple daily habits that drive long-term transformation.
How to break the all-or-nothing cycle.
And more!

Tune in for a powerful conversation on resilience, human capital, compounding habits, and why your past does not define your future.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | thewayofexcellence.com/ | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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Affordable housing. Durable cash flow. And an asset class that historically outperformed during recessions.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, co-host John Williams is joined by Leo Young, Founder and Managing Partner of Cornell Communities, a real estate investment firm focused on acquiring and operating manufactured housing communities across the United States.

With experience spanning more than $75 million in transactions — and a career path that includes working at Tesla and on the acquisitions team of a $4.5 billion private equity fund — Leo shares why he chose a niche many investors overlook: mobile home parks. He explains how this asset class blends affordability, impact and strong risk-adjusted returns, and why it may deserve a closer look in today’s volatile market.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why manufactured housing communities often perform well during recessions.
How the business model works.
What makes this asset class attractive for passive investors.
How Leo’s background as a first-generation immigrant shaped his money beliefs, risk tolerance and entrepreneurial drive.
And more!

Tune in for a deep dive into the economics of manufactured housing, insights on private equity-style real estate investing, and a powerful conversation about resilience, opportunity and building wealth with purpose.

Resources:

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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Most people assume Medicare will cover long-term care — until they discover, often too late, that it won’t.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, co-host John Williams sits down with Raymond Lavine, founder of Lavine LTC Benefits, to unpack one of the most misunderstood areas of financial planning: long-term care. From defining what long-term care actually means to exploring where care is delivered, how it’s paid for, and why planning ahead creates more control and dignity, this conversation cuts through common misconceptions.

In this episode, you will learn:

Long-term care is about caregiving, not healthcare.
Care doesn’t only happen in nursing homes.
Medicare coverage is limited and often misunderstood.
Planning ahead creates options — waiting removes them.
Long-term care planning is about dignity and quality of life.
And more!

Resources:

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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Do you really need a banker in an era of digital banking, AI, and one-click financial tools? And if so, what kind of banker actually makes a difference for your business?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, host Marc Bautis is joined by Walt Postlewait, a longtime banking and credit risk leader with more than 20 years of experience in commercial lending, financial innovation, and access to capital. Walt is the Co-Founder of Portfolio Watch and Chief Credit Officer at MStreetX, and over his career he has helped deploy more than $600 million to support small businesses, real estate, and economic development.

Together, Marc and Walt unpack the evolving role of bankers, why relationships still matter in lending, and how community banks continue to play a critical role for business owners — even in an increasingly digital world.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why small business owners still need a banker — and why that relationship should be built long before you need a loan.
The key differences between community banks, national banks, and digital platforms, and where each one has an edge.
How community banks evaluate loans differently, including why local decision-making and business context can change outcomes.
How technology and AI are improving the lending process, from fraud detection to smarter loan monitoring after funding.
What business owners should focus on to work on their business, not just in it, and why strategic thinking impacts long-term value.
And more!

Tune in for a practical, behind-the-scenes look at how lending decisions are really made, why relationships still matter in finance, and how business owners can position themselves for smarter, more flexible access to capital — even as banking continues to evolve.

Resources:

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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As wealth transfers across generations, cybercriminals are positioning themselves to intercept it.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, host Marc Bautis is joined by Robert Siciliano, one of the nation’s most trusted authorities on cybersecurity, identity theft, and fraud prevention.

Robert is a private investigator, Certified Speaking Professional, bestselling author, and the creator of The Strategic Human Firewall™. You’ve likely seen him on CNN, MSNBC, Fox, or The Today Show, helping millions understand how cybercriminals think — and how to stay one step ahead of them.

Together, Marc and Robert explore why affluent families are increasingly targeted by fraudsters, how denial and misplaced trust make people vulnerable, and why AI-driven scams like deepfake voices and impersonation are changing the threat landscape entirely.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why “It won’t happen to me” is one of the most dangerous mindsets in cybersecurity — and how denial quietly increases risk.
Why affluent families and older generations are prime targets right now.
How modern scams actually work, including wrong-number texts, romance scams, and long-game trust-building tactics.
What practical steps can be taken to reduce risk immediately.
The role adult children and trusted advisors play in protecting aging parents without taking away independence.
And more!

Tune in for a candid, eye-opening conversation about why situational awareness — not paranoia — is the new baseline for protecting wealth, identity, and family legacy in a digital world.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | protectnowllc.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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Paying investment fees is normal. Not knowing what you’re paying isn’t.

Research shows that many investors underestimate — or completely overlook — the true cost of investing, with more than 20% believing they pay no fees at all.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, co-host John Williams, CFP®, breaks down the often-misunderstood world of investment fees. He explains the different ways fees show up, where to find them, and how to evaluate whether the value you’re receiving truly justifies the cost.

In this episode, you will learn:

The three primary types of investment fees — expense ratios, advisory fees, and trading costs — and how each one works.
Why expense ratios apply regardless of where your investments are held and how they can vary widely by fund type.
How advisory fees differ based on the level of service, from investment management to comprehensive financial planning.
Practical steps to identify what you’re actually paying, including how to review statements and ask the right questions.
How to assess whether your fees align with the value you’re receiving, including expertise, time savings, peace of mind, and performance.
Why understanding fees is essential to making confident, informed financial decisions.
And more!

Tune in for a clear, honest conversation about investment fees.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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Are gold and silver simply relics of the past, or critical tools for navigating what may be the next major shift in the global monetary system?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, host Marc Bautis is joined by David Morgan, a precious metals analyst and monetary system critic with more than four decades of experience. David is the co-author of The Silver Manifesto, publisher of The Morgan Report, and creator of the documentary Silver Sunrise. Together, they cut through the hype to explore what precious metals really represent, why they’re surging, and how they may fit into a modern financial plan.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why today’s market environment may represent a historic confidence shift, not just another economic cycle — and what that means for currencies, assets, and investors.
How gold and silver act as financial barometers, signaling stress in the monetary system before it shows up elsewhere.
What’s driving the surge in silver and gold demand, from industrial shortages and institutional buying to central banks quietly preparing a “Plan B.”
How individual investors can think about precious metals practically, including physical ownership, ETFs, and why a modest allocation can serve as portfolio insurance.
And more!

Tune in for a wide-ranging conversation on money, markets, mining, and the psychological forces behind inflation — plus a grounded perspective on how precious metals can provide balance, liquidity, and peace of mind during uncertain times.

Resources:

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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What if the real problem with education isn’t that students aren’t learning enough — but that they’re learning the wrong things for today’s workplace? Too many graduates are prepared for exams, but not for collaboration, uncertainty, or real-world decision-making — including money

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, co-host John Williams is joined by Simon Holzapfel, co-founder and CFO of L-EAF Lab, an innovation incubator designed to give students real-world, hands-on experience before they ever enter the workforce.

Simon brings decades of experience from independent schools, leadership roles, and advisory work with families and institutions. At L-EAF Lab, he applies agile and evolutionary principles to education — helping students build practical skills, confidence, and adaptability in an economy that’s changing faster than ever.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why traditional education often prepares students for tests — but not for teamwork, ambiguity, or modern workplace realities.
How L-EAF Lab helps students break the “no experience, no job” paradox by working on real business problems and building verifiable skills.
Why soft skills — collaboration, feedback, adaptability, and resilience — are becoming more valuable than technical skills in an AI-driven economy.
How experiential learning, agile practices, and even financial literacy can better prepare young people for careers, leadership, and long-term success.
And more!

Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about reimagining education, expanding access to opportunity, and giving young people the tools they actually need to succeed in the real world — not just the classroom.

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or professional thinking about the future of work, this episode offers practical insights into how learning can evolve to meet today’s challenges.

Resources:

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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What if the biggest communication breakthroughs have less to do with what you say — and more to do with how well you listen?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses another book in their Book Club series: Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection by Charles Duhigg, bestselling author of The Power of Habit.

As conversations around AI, polarization, and digital communication continue to grow louder, this episode explores why human connection — and the ability to communicate effectively — has never been more important.

In this episode, we discuss:

Why miscommunication happens so often — and how the “matching principle” can help you recognize and align with the type of conversation you’re actually having.
How every conversation is a negotiation, whether it’s about information, emotions, or expectations.
Why the best communicators are the best listeners, and how techniques like looping build trust and psychological safety.
How to hear emotions that aren’t being said out loud, including the role of nonverbal cues, vulnerability, and authenticity.
How to stay connected amid conflict, even when no one is changing their mind
And more!

Throughout the conversation, the team shares powerful stories from the book — including examples from the CIA, NASA, hedge fund managers, and deeply polarized social debates — and connects them to real-life applications in personal relationships, professional environments, and financial planning conversations.

If you’ve ever felt like you were talking past someone, struggled to navigate difficult conversations, or wanted to become a better listener in high-stakes situations, this episode offers practical insights you can start applying right away.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection | The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business

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AI is reshaping the business world — but for small business owners, the biggest danger isn’t the technology itself. It’s adopting it without truly understanding your processes.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, co-host John Williams is joined by David Quick — IT veteran, founder of Total Cover IT, and author of Winning with Tech in the Age of AI. David shares insights from 25 years in technology and business, revealing how small businesses can leverage AI safely, strategically, and profitably.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why AI won’t fix a broken process — it will amplify it.
The smartest (and safest) ways small businesses can begin using AI today.
How cybersecurity threats are evolving as hackers also adopt AI — and how to protect your business.
The biggest tech mistakes small businesses make, and how to avoid shiny-object syndrome.
And more!

Tune in for a grounded, practical look at where AI is headed — and what business owners can do now to stay efficient, secure, and competitive.

Resources:

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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Navigating senior care can be overwhelming — but with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, co-host John Williams is joined by Melina Owusu, Certified Senior Advisor and owner of CarePatrol of Metro North New Jersey, who helps families find safe, personalized senior living options — from independent living to assisted living and memory care — at no cost to the family.

In this episode, you will learn:

The key differences between independent living, assisted living, and memory care.
How to assess your loved one’s needs and determine the right time for a transition.
Common mistakes families make and why planning ahead is essential.
Practical strategies for gathering critical information and resources to reduce stress during transitions.
And more!

Tune in for expert insights on how to navigate senior care with confidence, protect your family’s well-being, and make informed decisions that provide safety, comfort, and peace of mind.

Resources:

Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

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Most entrepreneurs look for flashy industries with big margins… but what if the real opportunity is hiding in the last place you’d ever think to look?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, co-host John Williams is joined by David Sauers, co-founder of Royal Restrooms — the company that transformed the portable restroom experience from dreaded necessity to unexpected luxury.

David shares the origin story behind Royal Restrooms, how he scaled a simple idea into a national franchise, and what entrepreneurs can learn from building a business in the most unlikely of places.

In this episode, you will learn:

How one frustrating experience at a public event inspired the creation of a luxury portable restroom business.
What differentiates Royal Restrooms from traditional porta-potties — and why upgraded facilities can significantly boost event revenue.
How David scaled from two trailers to more than 50 franchise locations across the country.
The biggest challenges in shifting public perception and creating a new category within an established industry.
What it really takes to become a successful Royal Restrooms franchisee — and why community involvement is key.
And more!

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about innovation, entrepreneurship, and finding opportunity where no one else is looking.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | royalrestrooms.com | davidsauers.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Most people have heard of trusts — but few truly understand whether they need one, how they work, or what they actually solve.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, John Williams is joined by Tom Szieber, a North New Jersey estate planning attorney who helps families build thoughtful, tax-efficient, and practical estate plans. Together, they break down the real purpose of trusts, when they make sense, and how to know which type may be right for you.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why so many families are now exploring trusts – and why probate avoidance has become a major driver.

The three core roles in every trust and how they work together.
The key differences between revocable and irrevocable trusts (and what most people misunderstand about each).
How titling, beneficiary designations, and pour-over wills determine what actually happens to your assets.
And more!

Tune in for a clear, practical conversation that demystifies trusts and helps you understand how they fit into a modern estate plan.

Resources:

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What if the next major wave of entrepreneurship is happening 400 feet above your head? The drone industry is unlocking six-figure business opportunities for early movers.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, John Williams is joined by Damon Darnall — “The Drone Boss” — to explore where the drone industry is heading, how entrepreneurs are capitalizing on emerging verticals, and why automation, AI, and air-mobility systems are shaping a multi-billion-dollar future.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to get started in the commercial drone industry with just a $1,500 drone and build a profitable business.
The steps to earn your FAA Part 107 license and why it’s the first essential step before launching a drone business.
Which industries and verticals are most promising for drone services, from real estate and agriculture to inspections and cinematography.
How focusing on results, not just technology, helps drone entrepreneurs stand out and win clients.
What the “low-altitude economy” is and how autonomous drones will change the way businesses operate in the next few years.
And more!

Tune in now for a fascinating glimpse into the future of drones — and the business and investment opportunities that will follow.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | dronecommandlive.com | The Drone Boss | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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What happens when a business owner’s identity becomes completely tied to the company they’ve built? Selling the business isn’t just a financial transaction — it’s an emotional crossroads.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, John Williams is joined by Gregory Kovsky, President of IBA, a firm specializing in the confidential sale of privately held companies. Gregory shares what he’s learned from decades of guiding owners through one of the most impactful transitions of their lives: exiting the business they poured themselves into.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to determine the true value of a business beyond the balance sheet.
Why timing the sale is more about personal readiness than market forecasts.
The emotional challenges that often arise during exit planning — and how to prepare for them.
Key steps to ensure a smooth, confidential, and fair sale process.
And more!

Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on preserving legacy, maximizing financial outcomes, and planning for what comes after the business is sold.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | IBAINC.com | 425-454-3052 | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Most investors think they need to buy Bitcoin to profit – but there’s another side of cryptocurrency that can generate steady income…

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, John Williams is joined by Beau Turner, founder of Abundant Mines, a company built to make passive crypto infrastructure investing simple, secure, and sustainable.

In this episode, you will learn:

What Bitcoin mining really is, and how it supports the cryptocurrency ecosystem.
How investors can participate in mining while maintaining control and tax advantages.
Why Bitcoin mining is becoming a more stable and predictable investment opportunity.
How responsible mining can be energy-efficient and even benefit local communities.
And more!

Tune in to discover how Bitcoin mining can provide cash-flowing income, reduce investment risk, and offer a hands-on way to learn about the future of money and technology.

Resources:

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Your child’s getting married — and you want to help. But how do you give generously without putting your own financial future at risk?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis breaks down how parents can thoughtfully and sustainably contribute to their child’s big day. From managing expectations to structuring financial support, Marc provides a practical framework for making generous decisions without jeopardizing your own financial goals.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to navigate the emotional and relational dynamics of contributing to a wedding.
Ways to determine how much you can realistically afford — without sacrificing your retirement or other priorities.
Smart strategies for funding the wedding and setting clear financial boundaries.
Tips for communicating expectations, maintaining fairness among siblings, and keeping family harmony intact.
And more!

Tune in for a balanced perspective on generosity, financial planning, and celebrating one of life’s biggest milestones with confidence and clarity.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | How to Structure Gifts and Transfers to Adult Children | Episode 262 - How to Help Your Adult Children Buy a Home | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Poor estate planning can leave your family with confusion, conflict, and unnecessary costs — but it doesn’t have to.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Eric Kaplan, Senior Counsel in Greenspoon Marder’s International Wealth and Asset Planning Group. With nearly 25 years of experience, Eric shares valuable insights on the biggest mistakes people make with their estate plans, what happens when someone passes away without a will, and how strategic asset protection — both domestic and offshore — can safeguard your wealth for generations.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why failing to create or update an estate plan can have serious consequences for your loved ones.
The key documents every comprehensive estate plan should include.
How to avoid probate and ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes.
The role of asset protection trusts — including offshore structures — in shielding wealth from creditors and lawsuits.
And more!

Tune in to discover how proactive estate and asset protection planning can help you protect what matters most.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | eric.kaplan@gmlaw.com | www.gmlaw.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Legal issues affect everyone, yet most of us navigate them blindly — until it’s too late. What if you could take control of your legal wellness the same way you manage your finances or health?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Danny Karon, aka “Your Lovable Lawyer,” a seasoned attorney, law professor, and legal wellness advocate. Danny breaks down complex legal concepts and shows how everyday people can protect themselves, avoid costly mistakes, and confidently navigate the law.

In this episode, you will learn:

What legal wellness is and why it’s just as important as your financial or physical health.
How to take proactive steps to protect yourself in common legal situations, from auto accidents to online behavior.
The importance of reading contracts — even the ones you think you can’t change.
When it’s time to bring in a lawyer versus when you can handle issues on your own.
And more!

Tune in to discover practical strategies to safeguard your legal health, avoid common pitfalls, and empower yourself to navigate the law with confidence.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | yourlovablelawyer.com | Your Lovable Lawyer’s Guide to Legal Wellness: Fighting Back Against the World That’s Hard to Cheat You | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Many professionals push through unfulfilling careers, but at what hidden cost to their lives, goals, and well-being?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Rachel Spekman, founder of Made for More Coaching. Rachel is a veteran coach who helps professionals who feel unfulfilled by their careers identify and tap into their unique potential. After 15 years in marketing brands, 10 years supporting startup founders, and five years practicing as a therapist, she has helped hundreds of people reinvent their careers.

In this episode, you will learn:

The long-term effects of staying in a career that drains your energy and motivation.
Why fear and comfort often keep people stuck in unfulfilling roles.
How to identify the warning signs that it’s time to make a career change.
Practical strategies for transitioning into work that aligns with your strengths and passions.
And more!

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | rachelspekman.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) – a sweeping piece of tax legislation that impacts everything from deductions to child savings accounts – has been passed. Do you know what it means for your financial plan?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by John Williams to break down key provisions of the new law and highlight the biggest planning opportunities.

In this episode, you will learn:

How the new $40,000 SALT deduction cap works, who benefits, and why the phaseout rules could make itemizing worthwhile again for taxpayers in high-tax states.
What the Senior Standard Deduction offers to those age 65 and older, how the phaseout thresholds apply, and how it compares to existing deduction strategies in retirement.
Why the newly introduced Trump Accounts — government-seeded investment accounts for children — could become a powerful savings tool alongside 529 plans and Roth IRAs for kids.
How changes to charitable contribution rules — including the new deduction cap, minimum “floor,” and standard deduction adjustments — may influence when and how you give.
Plus: new above-the-line deductions for tips and overtime, expanded 529 plan uses, car loan interest deductions, the repeal of EV and residential energy credits, and more.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | The One Big Beautiful Bill Act Checklist | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Most of us are taught algebra in school, but not how to manage a paycheck, save for retirement, or avoid credit card debt. That’s where Steve Short and Mark Schlipman come in.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Steve Short and Mark Schlipman, co-authors of The Simple Road Toward Financial Freedom: A Guide to Building Wealth and Independence. Drawing on decades of corporate leadership and financial advising experience, Steve and Mark share how their book helps readers — especially Gen Z and young professionals — gain confidence, clarity, and control over their money.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why financial literacy is still missing in schools—and how to fill the gap.
The 50/20/30 spending model, and why saving should come before “wants.”
How small, consistent steps (like automating savings) build lifelong wealth.
Why defining your personal version of financial freedom is more important than chasing a big number.
And more!

Resources:

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Housing prices are at record highs, leaving many parents wondering: “How will my kids ever be able to afford a home?”

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis explores how parents can help their adult children buy a home without jeopardizing their own financial future. He breaks down four common strategies, explains the tax and planning implications of each, and shares how to approach the conversation with your family.

In this episode, you will learn:

How gifting a down payment works, including 2025 gift tax rules and limits.
What’s involved in setting up an intra-family loan – and how to keep it IRS-compliant.
The risks and responsibilities of co-signing a mortgage.
How buying a home and renting it to your child can benefit both parties.
Alternative approaches such as shared equity agreements and covering ongoing costs.
Why open and honest communication is the most important part of any plan.
And more!

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Episode 164 - How Families Can Balance Paying For College And Saving for Retirement | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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The business of education is rapidly evolving — from homeschooling and private schools to special education programs and investor interest. But how does it all fit together, and where are the biggest opportunities and challenges ahead?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by John McLaughlin, Ph.D., Managing Partner at McLaughlin Advisors. John is a lifelong educator, entrepreneur, and advisor who has helped school owners and special education providers prepare for — and profit from — successful exits.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why fewer people are choosing teaching careers today, and how that shift impacts education.
How public, private, charter, and homeschooling fit into the U.S. education system — and who pays for what.
The role of private investors and private equity in the future of education.
How vouchers and federal law shape funding for special education and private schools.
What school owners need to know about acquisitions and planning for a successful exit.
And more!

Tune in to hear how education, entrepreneurship, and investment opportunities intersect — and what the future of schooling may look like.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | McLaughlinAdvisors.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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AI is transforming wealth management – but what does that really look like for financial advisors and their clients?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Daniel Yoo, Founder and CEO of FinMate AI. Daniel shares his journey from financial advisor to fintech entrepreneur, and how his company is helping advisors stream operations, enhance client experiences, and stay ahead of the curve with AI-powered solutions.

In this episode, you will learn:

The real-world problems FinMate AI solves – and why note-taking was the first challenge tackled.
The importance of privacy and security in AI, and how FinMate approaches data retention.
Where AI is already proving valuable in wealth management, from meeting summaries to market signal analysis.
And more!

Tune in to discover how AI is reshaping the advisor-client relationship and what’s next for AI in financial services.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | FinMate AI | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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A note from your host: My guest’s audio becomes unclear beginning at 14:30. This issue resolves at 16:17. Thank you for your patience during this brief section — we appreciate you sticking with us!

What if your portfolio could pay you to wait? That’s the power of dividend investing.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Roger Conrad, veteran dividend investor and author, nicknamed “The Tortoise King.” With over 40 years of experience navigating recessions, market booms, and industry shifts, Roger shares how dividend strategies can generate sustainable income while still capturing growth opportunities in sectors like energy, utilities, and artificial intelligence.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why Roger believes dividend-paying companies remain one of the most reliable wealth-building tools, even in volatile markets.
The five key criteria he uses to evaluate whether a company’s dividend is sustainable.
How sectors like utilities, pipelines, and even real estate play a critical role in income-focused investing.
The risks of relying solely on capital gains — and why today’s market concentration in “big tech” may mirror the late 1990s bubble.
And more!

From utilities to AI, find out which sectors can deliver sustainable dividends and reliable returns!

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Dividends with Roger Conrad | conradsutilityinvestor.com | energyandincomeadvisor.com | Power Hungry: Strategic Investing in Telecommunications, Utilities and Other Essential Services | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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The most valuable companies in the world are staying private longer than ever — and that means most of the growth is happening before the IPO. How can individual investors get a piece of the action?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Mike Ivancie, Chief Marketing Officer at UpMarket, a platform that gives accredited investors access to exclusive private market opportunities — including shares of AI giants like OpenAI and Anthropic.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why private companies are delaying IPOs and what that means for investors.
How UpMarket sources, evaluates, and prices hard-to-access investments.
The trade-offs of liquidity, transparency, and valuation in private markets.
Emerging sectors beyond AI — including automation and defense tech — that could shape the future.
And more!

Tune in to discover how alternative investments can fit into a diversified, forward-looking portfolio.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | upmarket.co | Free Pre-IPO Investment Checklist: A Practical Guide to Venture Secondaries | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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What if your dream home is hiding dangers you can’t see? From undisclosed environmental risks to costly repair needs, the wrong surprise can turn homeownership into a financial headache.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Bob Frady, serial entrepreneur and founder of PropertyLens, a platform that equips homebuyers with in-depth property reports to uncover hidden risks before they commit.

In this episode, you will learn:

How PropertyLens uses over 2,000 data points – from roof condition to neighborhood safety – to give buyers a complete picture of a home.
Why relying solely on a home inspection could leave you vulnerable to costly oversights.
The three possible outcomes a buyer can expect after reviewing a PropertyLens report.
How both buyers and sellers can leverage property data to negotiate better deals and avoid surprises.
And more!

Tune in to discover how you can make smarter, safer, and more informed decisions when buying your next home.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | www.propertylens.com | bob@propertylens.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Health insurance can make or break a small business’ financial strategy – yet many owners overlook it or overspend on the wrong plans.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by guest Sherri Matheney, award-winning insurance agent and “Healthcare Hero,” to demystify the health insurance maze for business owners. Sherri shares how to choose the right coverage, avoid costly mistakes, and use health insurance as a tool to protect both your business and employees.

In this episode, you will learn:

How the right health insurance strategy can significantly reduce financial risk.
Common pitfalls small business owners make when selecting health plans — and how to avoid them.
When to consider individual vs. group coverage and how to transition as your business grows.
Key factors to evaluate during open enrollment and upcoming regulatory changes to watch.
And more!

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Whether your child has earned income from a part-time job, or is working for a family business, a Roth IRA can be a game-changing tool for their financial future – but it must be done correctly.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis explores the powerful strategy of setting up a Roth IRA for children. Inspired by recent buzz (yes, Beyoncé and Jay-Z come up), Marc explains how starting young with tax-free compounding can lead to extraordinary long-term growth. He covers everything from IRA rules and documentation requirements to real-life tax court challenges and best practices.

In this episode, you will learn:

The differences between Roth IRAs, Traditional IRAs, and taxable investment accounts.
What counts as “earned income” and why it’s essential for Roth IRA eligibility.
How to legally employ your child through a family business.
Real-world IRS red flags and examples of what not to do.
Best practices for staying compliant and maximizing benefits.
And more!

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Most businesses fight for market share – but what if you could make the competition irrelevant?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses Blue Ocean Strategy: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make Competition Irrelevant by W. Chan Kim and Renée Mauborgne – the 16th book in the team’s ongoing Book Club series. The Bautis Financial team explores the core concepts of blue oceans versus red oceans, and how individuals and businesses alike can break free from saturated markets to create unique value.

In this episode, we discuss:

How “value innovation” drives success by creating new demand instead of competing for existing demand.
The “Strategy Canvas” and how it helps visualize industry norms and uncover opportunities for disruption.
Why sustaining a blue ocean strategy requires continuous innovation – and the dangers of becoming complacent.
How individuals can apply Blue Ocean Strategy principles to their own careers and personal growth.
And more!

Whether you’re a business owner, professional, or someone seeking a fresh perspective on standing out, this episode offers actionable insights for charting your own blue ocean.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Blue Ocean Strategy: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make Competition Irrelevant | Bautis Financial Book Club | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Business partners draft contracts. Investment partners sign agreements. But when it comes to marriage – one of the most important partnerships of all – too many couples skip the financial conversations that matter most.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Dr. Travis Parry, #1 bestselling author of Achieving Balance and Marry and Grow Rich. With a master’s in psychology and a PhD in Family Relations, Dr. Parry has spent his career studying the intersection of money, marriage, and mindset. He’s the founder of the Make Time Institute, an international speaker, host of The Balanced Growth Show, and a dedicated husband of 22 years and father of eight.

Together, they explore how couples can align their values, grow their wealth as a team, and avoid the burnout that can sabotage both relationships and financial success.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why a strong marriage can be your most valuable asset, and how aligned values between spouses directly impact long-term wealth.
How subconscious money beliefs passed down through generations can shape your financial behavior – and what to do about it.
The key to balancing entrepreneurship, family life, and financial success without burning out.
Why open communication and shared financial planning are essential to a thriving marriage and business.
And more!

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What’s harder than building a successful family business? Handing it off to the next generation.

Passing on a successful family business is one of the most complex – and often avoided – transitions a family can face. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Doug Gray, PhD, a leadership coach, organizational psychologist, and author of The Success Playbook for Next Gen Family Business Leaders. Together, they explore the emotional, financial, and strategic challenges of family business succession.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why succession is often mishandled – and how to avoid common pitfalls.
How to identify and empower next-gen leaders with both financial and non-financial tools.
The role of peer groups, leadership assessments, and intentional learning in successful transitions.
How AI and personalized coaching tools are revolutionizing succession planning.
And more!

Tune in to gain practical insights, expert strategies, and real-world examples that can help your family business thrive for generations to come.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | action-learning.com | The Success Playbook for Next Gen Family Business Leaders | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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There are countless strategies to build wealth – but what if the key to lasting success lies in the energy behind those strategies?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis sits down with Egle Aleknaviciute to explore how aligning mindset, emotion and energy can create meaningful financial transformation.

Egle is a business strategist and energy alignment expert who helps high-achieving women clear subconscious money blocks, shift generational beliefs, and build wealth with purpose. With a background in economics, corporate finance, and entrepreneurship, she blends practical experience with deep inner work to guide clients toward empowered, sustainable success.

In this episode, you will learn:

How subconscious beliefs about money form – and how they silently shape your financial reality.
Why traditional financial strategies often fall short without emotional and energetic alignment.
Simple ways to begin shifting from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset.
How entrepreneurs can identify and overcome internal blocks that limit business growth.
What “energy alignment” really means – and how it can unlock more purposeful, fulfilling success.
And more!

Whether you’re an entrepreneur feeling stuck or simply spurious about the emotional side of money, this conversation offers insights you won’t want to miss.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | egle-aleknaviciute.com | Follow Egle: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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If your retirement plan includes staying in your home, you’ll want to hear this conversation…

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Kevin Guttman, Certified Reverse Mortgage Professional and author of A Reverse Mortgage Changed My Life: Real Stories of Hope, Courage, and Inspiration. Together, they break down the often misunderstood world of reverse mortgages – also referred to as “retirement mortgages.” With over two decades of experience, Kevin explains how these loans can offer older homeowners financial security, flexibility, and peace of mind – all while allowing them to stay in their homes.

In this episode, you will learn:

How retirement/reverse mortgages differ from traditional home loans and HELOCs.
Who qualifies for a reverse mortgage and how to determine if it’s the right fit.
The three ways retirees can access their home equity – and which might make the most sense.
The most common misconceptions about reverse mortgages (and the truth behind them).
How to start a productive conversation with aging parents about home equity and long-term financial goals.
And more!

Tune into this episode to hear how home equity can support long-term retirement goals!

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | reversemortgagerevolution.com | A Reverse Mortgage Changed My Life: Real Stories of Hope, Courage, and Inspiration | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Thinking of selling your business? Discover a powerful, tax-efficient exit strategy that not only preserves your wealth but also empowers your employees.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Salvatore Tirabassi, a fractional CFO with extensive experience in private equity, exit planning, and succession strategies. This episode unveils the secrets of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) with Salvatore, who’s personally guided a $242M business sale through an ESOP, offering a unique perspective on when and how an ESOP makes sense.

In this episode, you will learn:

What an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) is, and how it works.
The ideal planning timeline for an ESOP.
The significant tax benefits of an ESOP – for owners and companies.
How liquidity is created for selling shareholders.
And more!

Tune in to discover how ESOPs offer a compelling alternative to traditional sales, enabling business owners to achieve their financial goals while fostering a unique ownership culture among their employees.

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Most real estate investors chase returns. Few also aim to lift people out of poverty. Samuel Sells does both.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Samuel Sells, a retired Air Force officer and the founder of Impact Growth Capital. With a background in global health and over $2 billion in completed development projects across five continents, Sam now applied his expertise to one of America’s most urgent challenges: the affordable housing crisis. Through innovative public-private partnerships and a $300 million impact fund, he’s proving that you can generate strong returns while rebuilding communities and transforming lives.

In this episode, you will learn:

What the affordable housing crisis really looks like – and why public housing is failing.
How Samuel structures low-risk, high-impact investments backed by government contracts and subsidies.
The power of combining for-profit development with nonprofit services to help families achieve economic mobility.
The unique advantages of investing in Opportunity Zones and impact-focused real estate funds.
Why Samuel believes making money and doing good don’t have to be mutually exclusive.
And more!

Tune in to discover how mission-driven investing can deliver both purpose and profit.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | impactgrowthcap.com | Follow Samuel: LinkedIn | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Why do prices keep rising – even when productivity increases? And who really controls the money supply?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Ivan Pavlovic, author of Making Money on the Money Printer. Together, they explore the hidden mechanics behind inflation, how monetary policy shapes the economy, and what individuals can do to protect their financial future.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why inflation is more than just rising prices – and how it’s rooted in money supply expansion.
How central banks and commercial lenders create money, and why it’s not just governments pulling the strings.
The role of interest rates in financial instability and what causes economic booms and busts.
How asset bubbles form, and what savvy investors can do to stay ahead of the cycle.
And more!

Tune in to discover how you can protect your wealth when the value of money keeps falling.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Making Money on the Money Printer | Follow Ivan: X | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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We often hear people say, “I know I have enough money, but I still feel scared.” When unresolved feelings stay buried, they often manifest as behaviors – like overspending or understanding – that are hard to explain. Talking about those feelings can ease the pressure. That’s where financial therapy comes in…

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by John Hankins, a licensed social worker, Certified Financial Therapist, and Certified Financial Social Worker. John specializes in working with individuals and couples middle-age and beyond to help them to understand and improve their relationship with money. He doesn’t create financial plans. Instead, John helps people assess their relationship with money and make sense of how they feel about their finances.

In this episode, you will learn:

What financial therapy is, and how it can complement financial planning.
The signs that your relationship with money might benefit from therapy.
Why simply having “enough” money doesn’t always bring peace of mind, especially as it relates to retirement savings.
How unexamined childhood experiences shape your current financial behaviors.
And more!

From compulsive spending to couple conflicts and retirement dread – financial therapy addresses what spreadsheets can’t.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | financial-therapy.me | financialtherapyassociation.org | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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What if your rental income was government-backed — and your tenants stayed nearly a decade? Meet the investor who built an $8 million net worth doing exactly that…

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Michael Curadossi, a real estate investor who has built a 72-unit portfolio — and an $8 million net worth — by focusing on Section 8 housing. Michael shares how he scaled from a single property flip to managing dozens of rentals, all while leveraging the stability and long-term benefits of government-subsidized tenants.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why Section 8 housing is one of the most overlooked opportunities in real estate.
How to identify the right properties and locations for subsidized rentals.
Tips for managing Section 8 tenants and minimizing turnover.
The systems and mindset that helped Michael scale his portfolio sustainably.
And more!

Tune in to discover how government-backed rental income can create long-term wealth — and why Section 8 might be the hidden gem in your real estate strategy.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | section8doneright.com | Follow Michael Curadossi on Instagram: @section8doneright | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Most people wait until life forces them to confront their finances. What if you had a ‘financial epiphany’ before that point — and used it to multiply your money, not your stress?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Scott Yamamura – a seasoned financial coach, communications expert, and author of Financial Epiphany: Discover Your Ability to Multiply Money and Reimagine Your Financial Life. With over experience blending communication, design, and financial coaching, Scott shares how anyone can take control of their financial future, overcome mental barriers, and unlock lasting wealth.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why most people don’t struggle with math, but with mindset, when it comes to money.
How to identify and break through “financial paralysis.”
The importance of redefining wealth and setting a personal “enough” number.
How communication and storytelling can reframe your relationship with money.
And more!

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | financialepiphany.com | Contact Scott Yamamura: scott@financialepiphany.com, (206) 854-6632 | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Most people plan for their finances — but what about their relationships, community, and passions? It’s time to take a more holistic approach to your future.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Aliki Samone, author of Conquer Your Summit: How to Build a Five-Year Plan & Live Your Best Life and The Summit Method: A 3-Step Strategy for Success in Self, Wealth, and Community. Aliki shares her transformative “Summit Method,” which guides individuals in creating a values-based five-year plan that goes far beyond financial goals — touching on relationships, community, and personal growth.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to apply goal-setting strategies to both tangible and intangible life objectives.
Why community and relationship goals deserve a place in your long-term planning — and how to structure them.
The importance of visualization, data tracking, and regular check-ins to stay aligned with your plan.
What to do when you hit a setback or lose momentum — and how to bounce back with clarity and purpose.
And more!

Whether you’re in a transitional phase or simply seeking more intentionality in life, this episode is packed with practical tools to help you map out and live your vision.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | www.conqueryoursummit.com | Conquer Your Summit: How to Build a Five-Year Plan & Live Your Best Life | The Summit Method: A 3-Step Strategy for Success in Self, Wealth, and Community | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Think your assets are safe from lawsuits, creditors, or divorce? Unless they’re in the right kind of trust, your wealth might be more vulnerable than you think.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Antony Joffe, an expert in trust administration and the Chairman of Sterling Trustees LLC. Under his leadership, Sterling Trustees has grown to manage over $10 billion in assets, providing independent, conflict-free trust administration services.

Antony is also a co-founder of WealthHub, a software platform that streamlines trust administration, and played a key role in establishing the South Dakota Trust Association. With over 15 years of experience, a background in investment banking and auditing, and a MBA in finance, Antony brings a wealth of knowledge to today’s discussion.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why South Dakota has become the gold standard for trust law in the U.S.
How perpetual trusts can preserve and protect family wealth for hundreds of years — or even indefinitely
The key differences between directed and delegated trusts, and why that matters for control and flexibility
How to navigate trust taxation, privacy, and asset protection through strategic jurisdiction selection
And more!

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What if the key to financial freedom isn’t more money – but a better relationship with it?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Elizabeth Husserl, a wealth planner and the author of The Power of Enough: Finding Joy in Your Relationship to Money. Together, they explore the deep connections between money, emotions, and fulfillment, offering a fresh perspective on how financial planning can align with what truly matters most.

In this episode, you will learn:

How your earliest money memories influence your financial behaviors today.
Why “enough” is the most important number in financial planning – and how to find yours.
The three layers of money and how understanding them can transform your wealth journey.
How to avoid the common trap of chasing more without understanding your values.
Why incorporating emotional intelligence into financial conversations can improve outcomes.
And more!

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | The Power of Enough | elizabethhusserl.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Not all financial advisors are created equal. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis and John Williams dive into the truth behind working with a fiduciary financial advisor, debunking common myths and explaining why the fiduciary standard matters more than ever.

In this episode, you will learn:

What it truly means to be a fiduciary financial advisor — and why it should matter to every client.
How to determine if your financial advisor is legally obligated to act in your best interest.
The most common misconceptions about fiduciary advisors — and the truth behind them.
How a fiduciary approach can enhance every aspect of your financial plan, from investments to values-based decision-making.
And more!

Tune in to learn how working with the right fiduciary advisor can bring confidence and clarity to your financial decisions, no matter what stage of life you're in.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Self-storage is one of the most recession-resistant real estate investments, yet many overlook its potential… In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Mark Helm, Founder of the Q2 Self-Storage brand, developer of the Storage World Analyzer, and bestselling author of Creating Wealth Through Self-Storage, a handy roadmap for investors to navigate the competitive self-storage market.

In this episode, you will learn:

How self-storage compares to other real estate investments and why it’s considered to be recession-resistant.
The key factors to look for when evaluating a self-storage facility – from location to market demand.
Strategies for financing and structuring deals to maximize profitability.
How to scale a self-storage business and increase revenue through automation and value-add opportunities.
And more!

Tune in to discover how you can capitalize on the booming self-storage industry and build a recession-resistant investment portfolio!

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Blockchain is more than just cryptocurrency — it’s transforming the entire financial industry. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Dan Averbukh, Founder of validityBase, which uses blockchain technology to help businesses create globally verifiable, highly credible data. Dan helps listeners understand the coming revolution in digital trust and the role blockchains and modern cryptography will play in transforming how companies do business in the digital age.

In this episode, you will learn:

A simple, clear definition of blockchain and why it’s essential for ensuring digital trust in today’s interconnected world.
The challenges businesses and investment managers face in establishing a verifiable financial track record and how blockchain addresses these issues.
How blockchain secures vulnerable financial data and creates more transparency and reliability in the digital economy.
Common misconceptions about blockchain and why understanding its true potential is key to leveraging its power.
And more!

This episode will give you a deeper understanding of how blockchain is shaping the future of finance and why digital trust will be a cornerstone of the financial world in years to come.

Resources:

Episode Summary Doc & Transcript | validityBase | app.vbase.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Are you struggling with procrastination or finding it hard to follow through on your goals? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses another in their Book Club series: Finish What You Start: The Art of Following Through, Taking Action, Executing, & Self-Discipline by Peter Hollins. The team shares their insights on how to overcome procrastination, stick with commitments, and build self-discipline — key concepts that not only apply to personal development but also to financial planning.

In this episode, we discuss:

Why people struggle with following through, even when they are motivated.
Small changes you can make to improve your follow-through.
How instant gratification impacts our ability to follow through on long-term goals.
How leaders can use the principles of this book to improve execution on teams.
And more!

Whether you're looking to improve your personal productivity or make progress on long-term financial goals, this episode provides valuable takeaways for turning good intentions into lasting action.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Finish What You Start: The Art of Following Through, Taking Action, Executing, & Self-Discipline | Bautis Financial Book Club | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Should you sell, rent, or reinvest an inherited property? The right choice could impact your wealth for years to come. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Amelia Misenheimer, a real estate consultant specializing in helping individuals navigate inherited properties. Together, they discuss the challenges, opportunities, and key considerations when deciding whether to keep, sell, or reinvest inherited real estate.

In this episode, you will learn:

The key financial and emotional factors to consider before making decisions about inherited property.
How to evaluate whether a property is a good investment, including assessing rental income, market value, and potential repairs.
The differences between passive and active real estate investments—and how to determine which is right for you.
The role of property managers, syndications, and self-management in real estate investing.
And more!

Tune in to gain valuable insights into making informed real estate decisions that align with your financial goals.

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | www.ameliamisenheimer.com | Connect with Amelia Meisenheimer on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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The words “IRS” and “tax debt” can strike fear into the hearts of many, but what if you had an expert guide to help you navigate the process? Whether you’re facing mounting tax debt, undergoing an audit, or just want to stay on the IRS’ good side, this episode is for you. The Agent of Wealth host Marc Bautis is joined by Stephen A. Weisberg, Founder and Lead Attorney of The W Tax Group, who has helped countless individuals and businesses resolve their tax challenges.

In this episode, you will learn:

What triggers tax debt and how audits can result in unexpected liabilities.
The difference between CPAs and tax attorneys when it comes to IRS representation.
Proactive steps you can take to prevent tax problems before they arise.
How IRS penalties and interest rates work—and why failing to file can be costly.
And more!

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Did you know that car washes in the United States generate over $15 billion in revenue annually? Yet, most investors overlook them as a serious wealth-building opportunity. Today, we’re diving into why car washes are one of the most underrated investments – and how guest Kriss Berg is using them to generate passive income, scale his portfolio, and slash his taxes.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Kriss Berg, a serial entrepreneur who made a name for himself in the business world with e-commerce and newsletter ventures before diving into the car wash industry. Kriss, formerly known as “The Car Wash Guy” on X, shares how he turned car washes into a wealth-building machine – leveraging undervalued business, operational improvements, and tax advantages to scale car wash investments.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why car washes are an overlooked but profitable business investment.
How Kriss scaled from one to five car washes using a repeatable system.
The massive tax advantages that come with owning a car wash.
Key factors to consider when buying and scaling a car wash business.
What makes a great car wash location – and the pitfalls to avoid.
And more!

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | TaxFreeCashCow.com | @KrissBergTweets | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Sara Ecklein, Founder of Trust & Honor and host of The Legacy of Love podcast. With over a decade of experience in fiduciary services, Sara specializes in trust administration, special needs trusts, and guiding families through end-of-life planning. Together, they discuss how proactive estate planning can prevent common pitfalls and ensure a smooth financial transition for loved ones.

In this episode, you will learn:

The role of a professional fiduciary and how they simplify trust administration.
Why incapacity planning is just as important as estate planning.
The biggest mistakes families make when preparing for end-of-life transitions.
How technology is shaping the future of estate planning.
And more!

Tune in to gain expert insights on preparing for the future with clarity and confidence.

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What if you could learn the most valuable parts of an MBA — without spending years in school?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by John Cousins, an investor, tech founder, and bestselling author who is revolutionizing business education. As the founder of MBA A$AP, a platform that has trained over 30,000 students across 165 countries, John has distilled the traditional MBA into an accessible, fast-track learning experience.

Tune in to discover how he’s making business knowledge more practical, affordable, and globally available.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why traditional MBA programs may not be the best return on investment.
How the 80/20 rule applies to business education, helping you focus on the most impactful concepts.
The innovative ways MBA A$AP is leveraging AI to enhance learning and accessibility worldwide.
And more!

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Summary Doc | MBA A$AP | Corporate Finance A$AP: Level Up With Powerful Finance Tools and Better Decision-Making | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is back for the second part in a series on how to maximize your 401(k). Now that you understand the importance of contributing to your retirement plan, the next big questions are: How much should you be saving? and How should you allocate those savings? Marc breaks it all down, from contribution strategies to investment options, so you can build a retirement portfolio that aligns with your goals.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to determine the right contribution amount for your 401(k).
The pros and cons of target date funds and whether they’re right for you.
How to use your plan’s allocation tools—or create a customized investment strategy.
Key updates to 401(k) plans in 2025 under the SECURE 2.0 Act.
And more!

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Episode 222 - Maximize Your 401(k): Roth vs Pre-Tax Contributions | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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What does it take to excel in the NFL and the business world? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis sits down with Marques Colston, Super Bowl Champion and Founding Partner at Champion Venture Partners, to explore how the lessons learned on the field translate into success in business and investing.

From his unexpected rise as an NFL standout to becoming a trailblazing entrepreneur, Marques shares the mindset and philosophy that have fueled his achievements. His decade-long football career taught him that sustained success requires daily effort, humility to keep learning, curiosity to uncover new opportunities, and confidence built through preparation and repetition.

Today, Marques applies this winning mentality in his work as an entrepreneur, educator, executive coach, and strategic consultant. With a mission to empower underserved and underestimated communities, he’s focused on helping others break through barriers and achieve beyond their perceived limitations.

Through Champion Venture Partners (CVP), Marques is building a legacy by creating wealth-building opportunities for a diverse group of investors, revolutionizing the sports investment landscape along the way.

In this episode, you will learn:

How Champion Venture Partners is reshaping sports investing with a diversified portfolio spanning sports tech, medicine, teams, and more.
Why self-leadership, teamwork, and culture are crucial to building sustainable success in both sports and business.
The vital role of access to high-quality investment opportunities in creating lasting wealth.
Marques’s efforts to democratize investment through education and initiatives that reach underserved communities.
And more!

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How do you lead with responsibility, build high-performing teams, and inspire action? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the most recent book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy Seals Lead and Win by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin.

Whether you’re managing a business, a family, or your personal goals, these leadership principles can transform how you approach challenges.

In this episode, we discuss:

What “Extreme Ownership” is, and how to employ it in business and in life.
The role of leadership in building successful teams.
How to inspire action and accountability through effective communication within teams.
The importance of collaboration.
And more!

Drawing connections between military strategies and financial planning, the team offers actionable insights for leaders, professionals, and anyone striving for success. Listen in for strategies that will inspire you to take ownership, lead effectively, and create impactful results in every area of your life.

Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy Seals Lead and Win | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Dreaming of flying first-class, lounging in luxury hotels, or planning your perfect vacation without breaking the bank? What if you could unlock the secrets to doing it all with points and miles you’re already earning — or could be?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Elliot Rosenberg, Founder of Hack My Honeymoon, to uncover the secrets of turning everyday spending into nearly-free luxury travel. Elliot, an expert in helping high-spenders and business owners maximize the value of their credit card points, shares how he helps clients go beyond 2% cash back to achieving 10-20% in rewards toward unforgettable experiences.

From premium flights to five-star accommodations, Elliot reveals his strategies for optimizing points, earning bonuses, and making the most of your travel rewards to create memories that last a lifetime.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to strategically earn and redeem credit card points for luxury travel experiences.
The importance of using the right cards for specific spending categories to maximize rewards.
Why flexibility in your travel plans can significantly enhance the value of your points.
Common mistakes people make when attempting to travel hack (and how to avoid them).
Tips for extracting maximum value from premium credit cards with high annual fees.
And more!

Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | hackmyhoneymoon.com | Elliot Rosenberg on Social: @EHRosenberg | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Did you know there’s over $2 trillion in free money out there, just waiting to be claimed? Whether you're starting a business, looking to pay for job training, or simply need help with living expenses, government grants and nonprofit funding can make it happen. But most people don’t even know where to start. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Matthew Lesko — the expert on uncovering hidden funding opportunities — to help you unlock the secrets to free money. Get ready to take notes because this episode might just change your financial future.

In this episode, you will learn:

The types of grants available to individuals and small businesses, and how to find them in your community.
Why many people overlook available grants, and how to avoid common mistakes in the application process.
How to use AI tools like ChatGPT to streamline your grant search and find opportunities you may have missed.
The growing trend of government-funded job training programs and how you can access funding even if you’re unemployed.
And more!

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In 2023, side hustles contributed nearly $500 billion to the U.S. economy. Imagine tapping into that potential! Today, we’re diving into how you can start and grow your own side hustle.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis sits down with Joan Posivy, a seasoned entrepreneur who has turned side hustles into successful business ventures. Joan is also the author of the best-selling book The Way Success Works and the host of the Side Hustle Hero podcast.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to start a side hustle with minimal costs.
How low-cost side hustles can still be profitable.
How to balance a full-time job with a side hustle – and transition it into a full-time business.
Why focusing on one side hustle at a time is key to success.
Common mistakes to avoid when starting a side hustle.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | sidehustlehero.com | The Way Success Works | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Imagine a world where every family is built on a foundation of love, clarity and harmony. Where generational trauma is healed, difficult conversations lead to breakthroughs, and relationships aren’t just surviving but thriving. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, today’s guest had made it her mission to turn this vision into reality.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Rebeccah Silence, a Self Healing and Relationship Expert, award-winning author, and transformational coach. Whether you’re navigating family dynamics, aiming to strengthen your relationships, or simply seeking professional transformation, you’re about to learn the tools and strategies to achieve all that – and more.

In this episode, you will learn:

The four stages of relationships and how to navigate them.
How to handle recurring challenges in relationships.
The importance of facilitation in resolving conflicts.
Practical hacks for identifying what you want.
Why clarity is the key to successful arguments.
And more!

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The decisions you make today could have a big impact on your taxes, savings, and investments next year. Are you ready to act? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis dives into the essential financial planning tasks to complete year-end. With December 31st deadlines looming, Marc provides actionable advice to ensure you're maximizing your financial opportunities and staying ahead of potential tax pitfalls.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to leverage tax-loss harvesting and manage capital gains effectively.
The benefits of Roth conversions and how to determine if they’re right for you.
Key considerations for retirement contributions, RMDs, and 401(k) strategies.
Tips for optimizing charitable giving and flexible spending accounts (FSAs).
Why annual financial checkups are critical and how year-end planning can set the stage for financial success.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | The 2024 Last-Chance Financial Planning Checklist | Episode 222 – Maximize Your 401(k): Roth vs Pre-Tax Contributions | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Are you looking to maximize your real estate investments while minimizing tax liabilities? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Stephen Haskell, Vice President of 1031 Exchange Sales at RealtyMogul, to explore powerful strategies like 1031 exchanges, Delaware Statutory Trusts, and Qualified Opportunity Zones. Whether you’re an experienced investor or just getting started, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you build wealth and diversify your portfolio.

In this episode, you will learn:

The tax implications of property sales, and how a 1031 exchange helps
How to prepare for a successful 1031 exchange, including strategies to meet the strict identification and closing deadlines.
What a Delaware Statutory Trust is (DST), and how it can provide diversification and a hands-off investment option.
How Qualified Opportunity Zones (QOZs) work and their benefits, including tax deferral for non-real estate assets and tax-free appreciation after 10 years.
The latest trends in real estate investing, including a discussion on the use of technology to optimize investment decisions.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | www.realtymogul.com | stephen.haskell@realtymogul.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Are you making the most of your 401(k)? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis dives deep into the 401(k) – a cornerstone of retirement planning that has transformed how Americans save for the future. Tune in to discover the nuances between Roth and pre-tax contributions, including their immediate and long-term implications.

In this episode, you will learn:

The evolution and history of the 401(k) and its impact on retirement savings.
The key differences between Roth and pre-tax 401(k) contributions and their tax implications.
How to determine whether Roth contributions may be more beneficial based on your current and future tax situation.
The significance of employer matching contributions and how the Secure Act 2.0 has changed matching rules for Roth accounts.
The concept of required minimum distributions (RMDs) and the recent changes affecting Roth 401(k)s.
The Mega Backdoor Roth strategy, allowing high earners to maximize contributions to Roth accounts beyond standard limits.

Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Checklist: Should I Contribute to My Roth 401(k)? | Checklist: Can I Make a Mega Backdoor Roth Contribution? | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list? What if you could transform the way you approach your time, shifting from simply managing it to truly optimizing it? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by David Buck, co-author of The Time-Optimized Life: Moving Everyday Preparation, Execution and Control from Finite to Infinite. With over 35 years of experience in organizational and time management, he founded Kairos Management Solutions and the Infinity Lifestyle design program. David specializes in helping business professionals navigate the challenges of inflexible schedules, empowering them to create strategies that optimize their time for a life filled with meaning, purpose, and joy.

In this episode, you will learn:

The difference between “time management,” which is often reactive, and “time optimization,” which encourages a proactive approach to structuring time effectively.
What the PEC framework is, and how this approach can optimize both short- and long-term planning.
The importance of long-term goals and planning, and how these guide our daily actions.
How to audit your time to identify areas for improvement and waste.
The meaning of “infinite time.”
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | infinitylifestyledesign.com | The Time-Optimized Life: Moving Everyday Preparation, Execution and Control from Finite to Infinite | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Learn how fractional ownership can revolutionize your approach to real estate investing! In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis explores the concept of co-investing in real estate with Brian Davis, co-founder of SparkRental and an expert in passive real estate investing. Brian shares valuable insights on how fractional ownership allows investors to diversify their portfolios and minimize risks while accessing opportunities that may have previously seemed out of reach.

In this episode, you will learn:

The fundamentals of co-investing and how it differs from traditional real estate investing.
The benefits of fractional ownership for both novice and seasoned investors.
How SparkRental facilitates co-investing for its club members, making real estate investment more accessible.
Practical tips for getting started in co-investing and maximizing your investment potential.
And more!

Tune in to unlock the power of fractional ownership!

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Read to turn your service into an extraordinary experience? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the most recent book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guidara.

Unreasonable Hospitality is a captivating book about how going above and beyond can create unforgettable experiences for customers, or clients. Discover actionable takeaways, inspiring anecdotes, and strategies to elevate your service to new heights!

In this episode, we discuss:

What unreasonable hospitality is, and what sets it apart from traditional notions of hospitality.
The importance of empowering team members to exceed expectations and foster a culture of creativity and collaboration.
How affirmation can be leveraged as a tool for motivation and trust-building within teams.
The challenges of executing unreasonable hospitality effectively in various contexts, and how to overcome them.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Ever wondered why some organizations thrive while others struggle despite having strong values and mission statements? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis dives in deep with Kyle McDowell, former senior executive turned bestselling author and leadership coach, as he reveals the transformative power of shifting from a 'me' mindset to a 'WE' culture. Discover the '10 WEs' that can revolutionize your team's dynamics and drive unparalleled success.

Tune in to find out how simple yet profound changes can reshape your organization from the inside out!

In this episode, you will learn:

The power of “WE,” and why leaders in all kinds of organizations should avoid the "me-oriented" paradigm.
The “10 WEs” – principles focused on fostering collaboration and collective accountability.
How to implement and integrate these principles into daily operations, and hold individuals accountable.
How successful adoption of the principles can create meaningful change.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Begin With WE: Principles for Building and Sustaining a Culture of Excellence | KyleMcDowellInc.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Are you a millennial looking to take control of your financial future? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis sits down with Daniel Solin, a renowned financial expert and New York Times bestselling author. With his latest book, Wealthier: The Investing Field Guide for Millennials, Solin delivers expert advice tailored to help younger generations navigate their financial journey with confidence. Discover essential strategies for managing debt, making smart investments, and avoiding common pitfalls.

Tune in to gain valuable insights that will set you on the path to financial success.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why millennials should prioritize paying off high-interest debt and building an emergency fund before focusing on investing.
How financial advisors can help millennials manage emotions and prevent costly mistakes.
How millennials can avoid over-trading, emotional impulses, and falling victim to media hype.
The benefits of early and strategic saving.
The value of simplicity in investing.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | wealthierbook.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Are you, or your child, facing the daunting challenge of funding a college education without going into debt? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Elizabeth Rosner, also known as DrRoz, the trailblazing founder of DebtFreeDegree with DrRoz, a transformative movement aimed at enabling students to achieve their educational dreams without the debilitating weight of student loan debt. Her unique blend of knowledge, strategic insight, and a commitment to community engagement lays the foundation for a future where generational wealth is accessible to all.

This episode is packed with actionable advice that could transform your family’s approach to higher education funding!

In this episode, you will learn:

The importance of pursuing a debt-free degree in today’s financial landscape.
Effective strategies for managing higher education costs while maintaining overall financial wellness.
Key approaches and timing for introducing debt management concepts to adolescents.
How to evaluate colleges/universities with the goal of a debt-free degree, considering both cost and academic objectives.
The importance of exploring unconventional scholarships and financial aid options, even for high-earning households.
Real-life examples and community resources to support a debt-free educational journey.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | DrRoz.love | DebtFreeDegree with DrRoz | DebtFreeDegree: Graduate Without Student Loans While Getting Good Grades, Having Tons of Fun, and Landing Your Dream Job! | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Are you an aspiring author struggling to navigate the complex world of self-publishing? Curious about how to transform your manuscript into a high-quality book without losing control or earnings? Join us on this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, where host Marc Bautis is joined by Michele DeFilippo, owner of 1106 Design and an accidental author advocate. With more than 50 years of experience in book publishing, Michele is on a mission to help authors ask the right questions to make informed decisions about publishing their books. She also wrote a guide: Publish Like the Pros: A Brief Guide to Quality Self-Publishing.

In this episode, you will learn:

What self-publishing is, how it has evolved over time, and tips for avoiding common pitfalls in the industry.
What authors need to know about editing, cover design, interior design, and more.
The essential services authors need to publish a book.
The real impact of Artificial Intelligence on the book market.
And more!

Episode Transcript & Blog | 1106design.com | Publish Like the Pros: A Brief Guide to Quality Self-Publishing| Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Curious about generating passive income through real estate without the hassle of day-to-day management? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, join host Marc Bautis as he dives into the world of turnkey real estate investing with guest Scott Stanfield, author of Passive Profits: The Turnkey Investor’s Guide and founder of Tuxedo Press, LLC. Discover how Scott transitioned from a career in engineering to building a successful portfolio valued at over $3 million, and explore his strategic insights into selecting, managing, and scaling turnkey properties.

In this episode, you will learn:

What turnkey rental investing is, and how it allows for passive income with minimal management.
What criteria to look for in turnkey rental properties.
The importance of prioritizing cash flow over appreciation in turnkey properties.
Risk management and scalability strategies for turnkey rental properties.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | scottastanfield.com | Passive Profits: The Turnkey Investor’s Guide | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Whether you’re launching a startup or looking to expand your small business, a strong legal foundation is necessary. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Matthew Fornaro, Esq., Attorney and founder of Matthew Fornaro, P.A. Matthew delves into essential legal considerations for entrepreneurs, from critical steps in starting a business to navigating complex regulatory environments. Discover practical advice on drafting solid contracts, resolving disputes, and safeguarding intellectual property rights.

In this episode, you will learn:

A variety of legal issues to consider when starting a business.
Common legal challenges that small to medium-sized businesses face.
How businesses can work to stay compliant with evolving regulations.
Why entrepreneurs should consider protecting their business’ intellectual property.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | fornarolegal.com | mfornaro@fornarolegal.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Kevin Hoover, founder of Next Crest. Discover Kevin’s insights gained from consulting over 50 small businesses, where he redefines retirement for entrepreneurs and business leaders. Learn practical strategies to shift your mindset, automate your business for longevity, and embrace flexible retirement approaches that suit your lifestyle.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why there is a need for a mindset shift regarding retirement – from a fixed age-based milestone (like 65) to a more flexible approach that considers longer lifespans and continued work in fulfilling roles.
How a phased retirement approach – a gradual reduction in workload – can fit into your retirement plan, especially those of business owners.
A variety of strategies to navigate retirement goals while also creating financial stability (The “Never Retire Approach,” and “Practice Retirement Approach,” as examples).
And more!

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Dive into the world of luxury travel in this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast! Host Marc Bautis is joined by Rodney George, Founder and Managing Partner at Luxe Travel Consultants. With over 185 years of combined experience, Rodney and his team are experts in crafting bespoke travel experiences tailored to your every need.

Tune in to gain valuable insights on maximizing your travel experience!

In this episode, you will learn:

What luxury travel is.
The physical and mental benefits to travel.
The advantages to working with a travel advisor or consultant.
How to choose a travel advisor or consultant for the best experience.
Which travel credit cards come to your benefit to make the most of your trips.
Current travel hotspots, in the United States and around the world.
And more!

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Dive into the world of luxury travel in this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast! Host Marc Bautis is joined by Rodney George, Founder and Managing Partner at Luxe Travel Consultants. With over 185 years of combined experience, Rodney and his team are experts in crafting bespoke travel experiences tailored to your every need.

Tune in to gain valuable insights on maximizing your travel experience!

In this episode, you will learn:

What luxury travel is.
The physical and mental benefits to travel.
The advantages to working with a travel advisor or consultant.
How to choose a travel advisor or consultant for the best experience.
Which travel credit cards come to your benefit to make the most of your trips.
Current travel hotspots, in the United States and around the world.
And more!

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Don’t let tax worries keep you up at night – tune in now and transform your understanding of IRS challenges!

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Morgan Q. Anderson, EA, CEO, Founder of Golden Lion Tax Solutions and the author of Tax Debt Rule #1: There’s ALWAYS a Solution! With over 24 years of experience navigating the complexities of IRS and state tax agencies, Morgan is a seasoned expert in resolving tax debt issues.

Discover the real stories behind tax debt scenarios – from family-run businesses to unexpected inheritances – and learn about the surprising solutions Morgan has crafted for her clients.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why some individuals end up with tax debt, and how to avoid it.
When faced with a tax debt issue, how to determine if it’s necessary to involve a tax debt resolution professional.
Insights into handling tax debt, from payroll taxes to personal income tax issues.
Common misconceptions about IRS enforcement and penalties.
Practical tax debt solutions, such as Offer in Compromise, penalty abatement, and more.
And more!

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Oftentimes we think about what we want to achieve in life, but how do we plan to get there and accomplish those goals?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Ken Rusk. Ken is the founder of Rusk Industries, a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker who achieved WSJ Bestseller status with Blue-Collar Cash: Love Your Work, Secure Your Future, and Find Happiness for Life. He hosts the podcast "Comfort Peace & Freedom" and empowers individuals through his impactful course, "The Path to a Successful Life."

Tune in to hear how individuals in blue-collar fields can secure their financial future through proactive planning and action, regardless of formal education!

In this episode, you will learn:

How to take control of your life’s blueprint, and a discussion on the power of visualization.
How to replace vague aspirations with concrete plans and actionable steps.
Reasons to challenge the conventional belief that success is solely linked to traditional higher education, advocating instead for a shift towards prioritizing personal fulfillment and proactive goal pursuit.
The importance of seeking guidance from positive influences who genuinely support you.
A variety of misconceptions about blue-collar work.
And more!

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Are you unknowingly sabotaging your investment success? Dive into the murky waters of investing pitfalls with host Marc Bautis on The Agent of Wealth Podcast. Uncover the five most common investing mistakes, from chasing trends to succumbing to emotion-driven decisions, and gain invaluable strategies to steer your financial ship towards calmer, smarter waters. Tune in now and transform your approach to investing!

In this episode, you will learn:

What action bias and recency bias is, and the application of both to investing.
Why managing emotions like fear and greed is essential to preventing impulsive investment decisions.
How to approach mega trends in investing with caution and skepticism.
What criteria to consider when selecting dividend-paying stocks.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Episode 23 - Can Dividends Lead to Financial Freedom? | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Estate planning is often a difficult time for loved ones, especially if something unexpected happens… In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by a special guest, Kat Newport, ACC, CCP. Newport is the author of Smart Conflict, Turning Disputes into Growth Opportunities and Founder of Oculus Coaching Inc. With a fervent commitment to using conflict as a catalyst for growth and innovation, Kat empowers individuals and organizations to thrive.

Tune in to learn how to proactively mitigate conflict through effective communication and planning!

In this episode, you will learn:

The common sources of conflicts during the estate planning process.
How mediation and conflict coaching can be used as tools to solve estate planning conflicts.
Common misconceptions about estate planning.
How to prevent estate challenges and facilitate a smooth transition.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Smart Conflict, Turning Disputes into Growth Opportunities | smartconflictbook.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Do you often find yourself hesitating before a big decision, or weighing the pros and cons?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Jeanne Collins, Founder and Principal Designer of the award-winning interior design firm, JerMar Designs. Two Feet In: Lessons from an All-In Life is Collins’ first book, and it was written with the goal of inspiring more people to live life to the fullest. This mission to encourage people to live their best lives is integral to everything Collins does, from her work creating sanctuaries for her interior design clients, to mentoring women in business, she encourages us all to go for what we want with “two feet in.”

In this episode, you will learn:

About Jeanne Collins approach to “jumping all in and not looking back”.
Why it is never too late to find your passion in business and life.
How investing more money in your business and delegating can bring you peace of mind.
Why being vulnerable is important to be successful.
And more!

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As spring breathes new life into our surroundings, it’s time to dust off more than just the cobwebs in our homes. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis answers one of the most commonly asked questions this time of year: What financial documents should I keep on file, and for how long?

In this episode, you will learn:

The documents you must keep indefinitely, including legal, personal, and financial records.
How long to keep tax-related documents and records.
Practical storage solutions for both paper and electronic records.
Best practices for disposing of old financial documents.
Strategies for streamlining your document management process.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Download the Checklist | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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100% of business owners are going to exit one day, but less than 10% have a written and communicated plan for doing so. If you fall into the remaining 90%, it’s time to get a plan in place.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Laurie Barkman, “The Business Transition Sherpa.” She’s the former CEO of a $100 million revenue company, the author of The Business Transition Handbook: How to Avoid Succession Pitfalls and Create Valuable Exit Options, and hosts the award-winning podcast Succession Stories.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to proactively plan your business transition before it’s too late.
How business owners can get clear on the value of their business, including tips any business can use to add value.
What it means to create a contingency plan, and compelling reasons for doing so.
How to assess potential risks, and protect your business against them.
How to determine what’s more important to you regarding numbers and emotional decision-making.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com | The Business Transition Handbook: How to Avoid Succession Pitfalls and Create Valuable Exit Options | Succession Stories | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

The Business Transition Handbook: How to Avoid Succession Pitfalls and Create Valuable Exit Options

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the most recent book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Thinking in Bets: Making Smarter Decisions When You Don’t Have All the Facts by Annie Duke.

Poker champion turned business consultant Annie Duke teaches readers how to get comfortable with uncertainty and make better decisions as a result.

In this episode, we discuss:

Why it’s important to think in terms of “bets.”
How and why life is more like a game of Poker than it is a game of Chess.
What it means to make probabilistic decisions.
How to become aware of your trading biases and look for contrarian opinions.
What a feedback loop is, and how to utilize it in your decision-making process.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Thinking in Bets: Making Smarter Decisions When You Don’t Have All the Facts | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Ready to explore the secrets of successful franchising? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by John Hewitt, a renowned American entrepreneur with over 50 years of experience. Hewitt is best known for his success in the tax preparation industry, having founded two of the largest tax preparation companies in the United States, Jackson Hewitt and Liberty Tax. Both companies represent two of the top 100 largest retail organizations in North America!

John Hewitt is also the best-selling author of iCompete: How My Extraordinary Strategy For Winning Can Be Yours and the CEO of Loyalty Brands.

Tune in to explore the secrets of successful franchising!

In this episode, you will learn:

John Hewitt’s journey from tax preparation to founding franchises.
The common challenges of starting a franchise in the 21st century.
How franchisees can create well-established systems (and constantly improve them).
How to acquire your first franchise, including financing options and startup costs.
How to know if franchising is right for you.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | www.loyaltybrands.com | john@loyaltybrands.com | iCompete: How My Extraordinary Strategy For Winning Can Be Yours | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Picture this: You’re working hard and generating income, but still it feels like you’re treading water – never getting ahead. If this sounds familiar, it could be your spending habits holding you back.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis distinguishes the difference between wants and needs. Whether you’re struggling to differentiate between wants and needs in your own life, or seeking strategies to align your spending with your financial goals, this episode will help you pave the way towards a better financial future.

In this episode, you will learn:

The distinction between wants and needs, and how doing so empowers effective financial prioritization.
What to do when the lines are blurred between wants and needs.
What the 50/30/20 budgeting rule is, and how it promotes financial stability.
How to align your spending habits with your values and priorities.
How to conduct a wants vs. needs audit to align your financial decisions with your long-term goals.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Michael Arries. Michael is an experienced advisor in the field of precious metals, having traded gold and silver for almost 25 years. In 2010, he embarked on his professional career with McAlvany Precious Metals, a family-owned business with a 50-year legacy in the industry. Renowned for their unwavering integrity, time-tested strategy, and personalized service, McAlvany represents the pinnacle of excellence among precious metals firms.

In this episode, you will learn:

Everything you should know about silver and gold, including how they are differentiated.
The various factors affecting the prices of gold and silver, including currency devaluation, geopolitical tensions, and market uncertainties.
The various methods of buying and selling precious metals, focusing on physical ownership of coins and bars, along with storage options in secure depositories.
How precious metals are compared to other assets, like real estate.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Call Michael: (970) 459-4611 | mcalvany.com/michael | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Dr. Jeff Anzalone, a periodontist who teaches a unique prescription for success centered around mindset shifts.

Dr. Jeff Anzalone shares his transformative journey from a practicing periodontist to a leading advocate for holistic wealth. Discover the pivotal moment that sparked Dr. Anzalone's realization that traditional income sources weren't enough to secure his family's future, and learn how he embarked on a mission to diversify his income streams through real estate investing.

Gain valuable insights into the importance of nurturing relationships and prioritizing physical health on the path to holistic wealth. Dr. Anzalone's wisdom and practical advice will inspire you to redefine success and take actionable steps towards building a life of abundance and fulfillment.

In this episode, you will learn:

The importance of securing multiple streams of income (beyond a single career) for long-term financial stability.
How to embrace a holistic approach to wealth – one that involves prioritizing health and nurturing relationships alongside financial prosperity.
Why over 90% of affluent individuals leverage real estate.
Why having a strong "why" is essential for driving action and perseverance in pursuing financial freedom.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | DebtFreeDr.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Nick Hutchinson, owner of BookThinkers, host of BookThinkers: Life Changing Books, and author of Rise of the Reader: Strategies For Mastering Your Reading Habits and Applying What You Learn. Nick has dedicated his life to helping millions of readers take action on the information they learn and rise to their potential through his books, speaking, and personal brand as a whole.

Nick Hutchinson's journey from someone who wasn't much of a reader to a dedicated reader and advocate for personal development through books shows that reading habits can be developed over time. Even if you haven’t been an avid reader in the past, tune in to discover how you can cultivate a habit of regularly reading.

In this episode, you will learn…

How to actually take action on every book that you read.
How to use the SMART goal-setting framework for your reading.
How to read effectively and take notes.
How delayed gratification applies to reading, and the benefits of sacrificing immediate pleasures for long-term growth.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Rise of the Reader: Strategies For Mastering Your Reading Habits and Applying What You Learn | BookThinkers | BookThinkers: Life Changing Books | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Books Mentioned:

Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life | Simple Wealth, Inevitable Wealth: How You and Your Financial Advisor Can Grow Your Fortune in Stock Mutual Funds | Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! | Think and Grow Rich | The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change

Think and Grow Rich: The Landmark Bestseller Now Revised and Updated for the 21st Century (Think and Grow Rich Series)

Simple Wealth, Inevitable Wealth: How You and Your Financial Advisor Can Grow Your Fortune in Stock Mutual Funds

Rise of the Reader: Strategies For Mastering Your Reading Habits and Applying What You Learn

Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not!

Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Jen Paterson, Founder of Dollar Divas, a money coaching company that supports female entrepreneurs or mompreneurs who need financial assistance with their businesses.

Jen recounts her journey from being a financial advisor to recognizing the lack of tailored financial education for women, prompting her to establish Dollar Divas. Through open discussions and workshops, Jen aimed to create a non-threatening environment where women could address their financial concerns and learn essential money management skills. The concept of "paying yourself" emerged as a central theme, emphasizing the deliberate allocation of revenue towards personal income, business reinvestment, and savings, with Jen offering step-by-step guidance on implementation.

In this episode, you will learn:

Practical steps for implementing the "Pay Yourself" concept, which emphasizes the importance of intentional revenue allocation towards personal income, business reinvestment, and savings.
How entrepreneurs can navigate fluctuating income by adopting percentage-based allocation rather than fixed amounts.
How societal influences contribute to women's perceived financial inadequacy and tendency to prioritize others over themselves.
How women can manage their finances with practical tools and accountability.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | dollardivas.org | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, achieving success often comes with its own set of challenges. From managing business operations to maintaining personal well-being, entrepreneurs face a myriad of obstacles on their journey to success. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis sat down with special guest Dr. Lance Knaub. The best-selling author of The 4% Break-Thru, Dr. Knaub helps overwhelmed entrepreneurs with 6-figure businesses avoid burnout, and instead create the life they love while scaling by developing a leadership team and creating a self-sufficient business that is an asset.

Dr. Knaub brings a wealth of experience to the table, having transitioned from being a physical therapist to becoming a successful business owner and leadership coach. His journey is not only inspirational but also educational.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to identify early signs of burnout and prioritize self-care to prevent exhaustion and maintain mental well-being.
The significance of delegating tasks, documenting processes, and hiring the right people to support business growth and sustainability.
The necessity of strategic planning in achieving business goals, including developing clear objectives, prioritizing tasks, and allocating time effectively for long-term success.
Insights into setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and making time for personal activities to achieve a healthy work-life balance while pursuing entrepreneurial endeavors.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Denali Consulting | The 4% Break-Thru | Download a Free Workbook Companion Guide to Lance’s Best-Selling Book | | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

The 4% Break-Thru: 96% of Small Business Owners Fail Within 10 Years. Entrepreneurs: Outlast the 96%, Avoid Burnout, and Create the Life You Love

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Getting a client is just the beginning. To successfully retain a client for life, business owners should seek to exceed the client’s expectations — turning them into advocates. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Richard Weylman, a business expert, serial entrepreneur, author, philanthropist, and keynote speaker. Tune in to discover how you can build rock-solid relationships that turn clients into delighted advocates for your business.

In this episode, you will learn:

What the Great Re-evaluation® is, and what it means for businesses and professionals.
What sets a business apart from the competition.
How any professional can make sure they are meeting the expectations of prospects and clients.
The everyday phrase that can make or break your customer relationship (without you realizing it).
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | www.richardweylman.com | 100 Proven Ways to Acquire and Keep Clients for Life | The Power of Why: Breaking Out in a Competitive Marketplace | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

The Power of Why: Breaking Out In a Competitive Marketplace

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Martin Salama, a life coach and author that specializes in helping people frustrated in their life quickly shift their mindset to uncover their greatness. The key to his success is he’s mastered the ability to Live Incredibly Full Everyday, which he turned into the acronym L.I.F.E. and created the Warriors L.I.F.E. coaching program based off of.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to build emotional strength and keep your feelings from ruling your actions.
What it means to Live Incredibly Full Everyday.
Common triggers that provoke frustration or anger, and how to deal with them.
How to maintain a positive outlook through daily habits and rituals.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Connectwithmartin.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Banks and financial institutions aren’t the only ones able to own mortgage notes: You could buy and own notes, making you the one receiving the monthly payments. This lesser-known yet incredibly powerful avenue is called mortgage note investing.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by guest Fred Moskowitz to discuss valuable insights into diversifying investments through mortgage notes. Fred is an author, entrepreneur and speaker who is on a personal mission to teach people about the power of investing in alternative asset classes, such as mortgage notes.

Fred is an entrepreneur, speaker and author of The Little Green Book Of Note Investing: A Practical Guide for Getting Started with Investing in Mortgage Notes. In this book, Fred publishes his concise yet definitive guide for new investors seeking to learn about this market niche. The Little Greek Book of Note Investing is filled with practical advice, motivational case studies and best practices for aspiring investors.

In this episode, you will learn:

What mortgage note investing is, and how to invest in mortgage notes.
The advantages of investing in a mortgage note fund.
Tips for due diligence on mortgage notes.
Emerging trends in the world of mortgage note investing.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | The Little Green Book Of Note Investing: A Practical Guide for Getting Started with Investing in Mortgage Notes | www.FredMoskowitz.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

The Little Green Book Of Note Investing: A Practical Guide for Getting Started with Investing in Mortgage Notes

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Tax season is overwhelming, as it often feels like we’re navigating a labyrinth of paperwork and regulations. That’s why this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast is dedicated to preparing for a successful tax season. As host Marc Bautis explores the nuances of tax preparation, he covers three comprehensive guides aimed at serving as your go-to resources during this tax season. Whether you’re looking to maximize your tax return or for guidance on streamlining the process, tune in to this episode for valuable insights.

In this episode, you will learn:

What documents to gather before filing your taxes.
What Adjusted Gross Income is.
What Modified Adjusted Gross Income is.
How MAGI and AGI affect your taxes.
How to determine if you can make a deductible IRA contribution.
Questions you should ask your accountant at tax time.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Checklist: Documents to Collect For Filing 2023 Tax Returns | Flowchart: Can I Make a Deductible IRA Contribution? | Guide: How AGI and MAGI Affect Your Taxes | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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A whopping 97% of day traders lose money in less than a year, and day traders lost a total of $1.14 billion during the pandemic. That’s why Apex Investing equips day traders with the tools and support they need to succeed. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Darrell Martin, a self-taught futures day trader and Founder and CEO of Apex Trader Funding and Apex Investing.

In this episode, you will learn:

What day trading is, and what makes a day trader successful.
How day traders can put a plan in place to avoid catastrophic losses.
How psychology and mindset impacts trading decisions.
How to start day trading.
And more!

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the most recent book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport.

Deep work should be considered a superpower in our increasingly competitive twenty-first century economy, yet most people have lost the ability to go deep – instead, spending their days in a frantic blur of emails and social media, not even realizing there's a better way.

In this episode, we discuss:

What it means to “work deeply.”
The power of deep work.
The four "rules," for transforming your mind and habits to support this skill: Work deeply, embrace boredom, quit social media, drain the shallows.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World | Listen to All Bautis Financial Book Club Episodes | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Brian Curcio, co-founder of the financial literacy tool Rapunzl.

With a free financial literacy curriculum and teaching training program, Rapunzl is helping to bridge the country’s economic divide by empowering students to view the world as investors and succeed in financial services careers. The aim of the EdTech program is to simplify finance and level the playing field for regular people.

Today, Brian joins Marc to discuss how Rapunzl helps students take back control of their own financial futures.

In this episode, you will learn:

What Rapunzl is, including insights into the financial literacy curriculum.
How Rapunzl benefits students and educators.
How financial education will transform over the coming years.
And more!

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Starting the new year with a concise, effective financial plan is like setting sail with a clear destination in mind. Picture this: A single page that holds the potential to transform your financial future.

In a world where complexities often overwhelm, a one-page financial plan provides clarity, guiding you through the maze of budgeting, investing, and securing your financial goals. Join The Agent of Wealth Podcast host Marc Bautis on a journey to unravel the incredible power in this seemingly modest tool.

In this episode, you will learn:

The power of simplicity in financial planning.
What a one-page financial plan is, and how it differs from more traditional forms of financial planning.
What’s included in a one-page financial plan.
Compelling reasons as to why you should have a one-page financial plan.
How to get started in creating a one-page financial plan.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Example of a One-Page Financial Plan | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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On March 2, 2017, at the age of 55, Alan Thomas stepped on the scale and it read 304 pounds. Fast forward 260 days, he stepped on the same scale and weighed 175 pounds. He conquered a lifelong battle with obesity in 260 days. His wife, Angie, also lost 63 pounds in 190 days.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Alan and Angie Thomas to share their personal stories and explain how they coach their clients to lose weight through the process of “Rethink Dieting.”

In this episode, you will learn:

Alan’s “aha moment” that catapulted his 129 pound weight-loss transformation.
How to begin a weight-loss transformation that lasts.
How Alan and Angie combined forces to encourage each other through the process of shedding weight.
How much your weight problem could cost you in your business or your career.
How to “Rethink Dieting.”
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | transformmyfuture.com/agentofwealth | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Matt Raad, a professional speaker, eBusiness expert, and acquisitions advisor with a unique skill set. He has spoken at various eBusiness events and conferences worldwide, focusing on topics such as business investing, mergers and acquisitions, website investing, and SEO. Additionally, he provides guidance on business growth, online strategy, and life balance.

Today, Marc and Matt discuss the process of buying, selling and renovating online “real estate.”

In this episode, you will learn:

The power of digital assets in generating cash flow and building wealth.
How websites are valuable digital assets that can be acquired, improved, and monetized just like physical properties.
How to get started in this space, including tips for due diligence.
Trends in the industry, including how AI can assist those who buy and renovate websites.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Ebusinessinstitute.com.au | mattandlizraad.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Bronson Hill, Founder and CEO of Bronson Equity, a multifamily investment company that is a general partner in over $200M in performing real estate assets, host of The Mailbox Money Show podcast, and author of Fire Yourself: Replace Your Working Income with Passive Income in 3 Years or Less.

In addition to his real estate business, Bronson also operates an educational platform, hosts the Bronson Equity Monthly Investor Series, and co-leads a large monthly meetup in Pasadena, California for investors.

In this episode, you will learn:

What types of alternative assets offer passive income.
How long it took Bronson Hill to replace his working income with passive income.
If real estate investing is truly passive.
How to get started passively investing.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bronsonequity.com | Fire Yourself: Replace Your Working Income with Passive Income in 3 Years or Less | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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The knowledge and resource gap between institutional investors and retail investors widens each year. That’s why Levelfields built a game-changing platform for self-directed investors to level the playing field.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Andrew Einhorn, Co-Founder and CEO of Levelfields, a technology that screens millions of signals related to over 6,000 stocks, sifting through the noise to find those events that affect prices, and using historical data to expose patterns and put those events into context.

In this episode, you will learn:

What Levelfields is, and how it revolutionizes investment research, making it accessible to a broader audience.
What event-driven investing is, and how AI plays a pivotal role in uncovering profitable patterns.
How AI can locate new investment opportunities.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Levelfields.ai CODE: Podcast23 | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Dave Foster, Founder and CEO of The 1031 Investor. He is a degreed accountant and serial real estate investor who is a qualified intermediary and consultant for tax saving strategies such as the 1031 Exchange and the Section 121 Homestead Exemption. Today, Dave breaks down how to use the 1031 Exchange in layman’s terms.

In this episode, you will learn:

What a 1031 Exchange is.
When and why to use a 1031 Exchange.
The six requirements of any Exchange.
How to recognize and avoid common 1031 Exchange issues.
How to transition from active real estate investing to passive real estate investing using a 1031 Exchange.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | 1031investor.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Kevin Amolsch, President and Founder of Pine Financial Group, and author of The 45-Day Investor: How to Buy an Investment Property With Nothing Down in 45 Days or Less. Tune in to learn how to access the funding you need to elevate your real estate game.

In this episode, you will learn:

Perspectives on the current real estate market.
What hard money lending is, and how it differs from traditional bank financing.
Which properties and project types are typically suitable for hard money loans.
How real estate investors can get a hard money loan.
Perspectives on the possible changes coming to real estate.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | pinefinancialgroup.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

45-Day Investor: How to buy an investment property with nothing down in 45 days or less

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis addresses a topic that demands our attention and concern: The financial aspects of elder abuse.

In this episode, you will learn:

What elder abuse is, with a focus on financial exploitation of our elders.
Staggering statistics about elder abuse in the United States.
The different forms of financial exploitation our elders may face.
How to prevent elder financial abuse
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Episode 174 - How to Safeguard Your Parents From Senior Citizen Scams | Elder Financial Abuse Statistics | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Gary Massey, founder of Massey and Company CPA. Gary has over 30 years of experience in tax preparation, tax planning, and IRS and state tax problem resolution. He holds a CPA, a Master’s degree in Accounting, and Master’s degree in Business Administration with a specialization in taxation. Gary is also a Certified Tax Representation Consultant. Together, they discuss strategies for individuals and business owners looking to minimize their tax liability.

In this episode, you will learn:

Two of the best strategies individuals can use to minimize their tax bill.
Five of the best strategies business owners can use to minimize their tax bill.
LLC vs S Corp: Which is better for you?
What you should know about IRS audits, including how to survive one.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Masseyandcompanycpa.com | Masseyandcompanycpa.com/blog/ | Contact Massey and Company CPA: 678-235-5460 | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Are you interested in incorporating charitable giving into your financial habits, but not sure where to start? Tune into this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, where Marc Bautis is joined by Adam Nash, CEO and Co-founder of Daffy, a fintech platform reinventing the donor-advised fund and making charitable giving easier than ever. Adam is a personal finance expert with decades of experience, most notably as a serial angel investor, advisor, and board member in over 100 companies such as Acorns, Gusto, Figma, and Opendoor. Together, they discuss how you can make charitable giving a sustainable habit through Daffy.

In this episode, you will learn:

What Daffy is, how it works and what sets it apart from other financial platforms.
How incorporating charitable giving into our financial habits can benefit individuals and communities.
How individuals can strike a balance between achieving their own financial goals and giving back to the community.
What a donor-advised fund is, and the benefits of giving through a donor-advised fund.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | daffy.org | Follow Adam on LinkedIn | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Algorithms and apps analyze data and tell you how to beat the traffic, what books to buy, what music to listen to, and even who to date — often with great results. But what do you do when you face the big decisions of life — the "wild problems" of who to marry, whether to have children, where to move, how to forge a life well-lived — that can’t be solved by measurement or calculation?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the most recent book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Wild Problems: A Guide to the Decisions That Define Us by Russ Roberts.

In this episode, we discuss:

What a wild problem is, and examples of wild problems.
The concept of flourishing.
How to “get over yourself.”
Lessons we can learn – and apply to our wild problems – from Bill Belichick.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Wild Problems: A Guide to the Decisions That Define Us | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by best-selling author, 5X entrepreneur, and financial expert Garrett Gunderson.

Garrett is the Founder of Wealth Factory, an Inc. 500 company that educates entrepreneurs on effective ways to grow cash flow, plug financial leaks, and reach economic independence. He is a New York Times best-selling author having written nine books, including Killing Sacred Cows: Overcoming the Financial Myths That Are Destroying Your Prosperity, as well as What Would the Rockefellers Do?: How the Wealthy Get and Stay That Way And How You Can Too. This October, he released his newest book, Money Unmasked: Unlearn, Unlock and Take Back Control of Your Finances and Life.

Whether in writing or speaking engagements, Garrett uses a unique blend of humor and financial education. With a passion for helping people understand how to keep more of what they make without cutting back, he uses his comedic talents to deliver financial advice in a way that is both entertaining and informative.

In this episode, you will learn:

The different money personas, including how (and why) to uncover yours.
How we can embrace our winning money persona.
What the “cycle of creation” is, and how we can leverage it.
Gunderson’s upcoming children’s book, I Am Money, I Don't Grow On Trees.
A variety of other takeaways from Gunderson’s newest release Money Unmasked.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Moneyunmasked.com | Free Quiz: What Is Your Money Persona? | Killing Sacred Cows: Overcoming the Financial Myths That Are Destroying Your Prosperity | What Would the Rockefellers Do?: How the Wealthy Get and Stay That Way And How You Can Too | garrettgunderson.com | garrettgunderson.com/musings | Garrett Gunderson TV | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

What Would the Rockefellers Do?: How the Wealthy Get and Stay That Way ... And How You Can Too

Killing Sacred Cows: Overcoming the Financial Myths That Are Destroying Your Prosperity

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This podcast is for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed are not the opinions of Abacus Wealth Partners, the firm that Spencer Sherman founded.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Spencer Sherman (MBA CFP®), founder and former CEO of Abacus, author of The Cure for Money Madness, and a public speaker renowned for his mindfulness-based approach to money. Spencer leads guided meditations on money, participates in transformative events and attends several week-long silent meditation retreats each year.

He’s transformed the lives of his clients and helped them achieve financial success. Today, he’s joining us to discuss the concept of money madness, and how we can break the taboo around money.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to overcome your limiting beliefs about money.
How “small and boring” can help you outperform top investors.
How to cultivate an “enough” mindset.
How to make smarter financial decisions.
How to break the taboo around money.
And more!

The Cure for Money Madness: Break Your Bad Money Habits, Live Without Financial Stress--and Make More Money!

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Anand Balasubramanian, a heart-based meditation consistency coach that helps founders, CXOs and other business professionals achieve their professional goals to attain uncommon growth. Together, they discuss how a meditative mindset can improve business performance… Because remember, a company's growth potential is directly tied to its leader's.

In this episode, you will learn:

The benefits of meditation.
What heart-based meditation (or heartfulness) is, and how it differs from other forms of meditation.
How to begin practicing heart-based meditation.
The benefits of heart-based meditation for business owners and entrepreneurs.
And more!

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As our loved ones age, they become targets for scammers and fraudsters looking to take advantage of their trust, vulnerability, and wealth. While you can’t protect your parents from becoming a victim, you can reduce their risk. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis provides invaluable advice on recognizing scams, establishing safeguards, and fostering open conversations with your elderly parents.

In this episode, you will learn:

The evolving landscape of senior citizen scams.
Ten common scams that target seniors.
Practical steps for avoiding senior citizen scams.
How adult children can have conversations with their parents about senior citizen scams.
And more!

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Many perceive the value of life insurance as the death benefit. However, over $200 billion in life insurance is lapsed or surrendered every year, returning nothing, or pennies on the dollar to the policyholder. Life settlements allow policyholders to sell policies they don’t want or can’t afford on the secondary market for prices that can be four to 11 times higher than the surrender value. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Lucas Siegel, Founder and CEO of Harbor Life Settlements, to discuss life settlements.

In this episode, you will learn:

What a life settlement is, and how they work.
The primary reasons policyholders consider selling their life insurance policies.
The eligibility criteria for policyholders looking to sell their life insurance.
The typical process of a life settlement.
The future potential of the life settlement market.
And more!

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You’ve heard about it, you’ve seen it in action, but have you ever wondered what happens when you put Chat GPT to the test? That’s what we explore in this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast.

The Bautis Financial team experiments with OpenAI’s Chat GPT, uncovering its potential and discussing its drawbacks. They ask it questions, test its wit, and explain use cases that you may not have considered.

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Chat GPT | Agent of Wealth Episode 161 – Talking AI With Manuj Aggarwal | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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If you’ve ever wondered how to make your property the backdrop for film, television or commercial productions, you’ll want to tune into this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast. Host Marc Bautis is joined by Josh Lawler, founder of The Film Shoot Rental Roadmap: How to Rent Your Home Tax Free for Film Shoots, Photo Shoots, and Commercial Productions. Before he cracked the code to film shoot rental success, Josh experimented with various real estate ventures, including live-in-flips, single family rentals, small multi-family rentals, build to rent new construction, and short-term vacation rentals. Film shoot rentals are, by far, his favorite real estate niche.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to rent your home for film shoots, photo shoots and commercial productions.
How to price your home when listing it as a film set.
What to expect when you rent your home as a film set, including a discussion on some of the myths.
The benefits of film shoot rentals compared to other real estate niches, including tax benefits.
How short-term rental investors and AirBNB hosts can benefit from film shoot rentals.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Filmshootrentals.com | josh@filmshootrentals.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by David Lesperance and Melvin Warshaw. David Lesperance is the Managing Partner of Lesperance & Associates, one of the world's leading international tax and immigration advisors. Melvin Warshaw is a highly regarded, longtime US cross-border tax and private client attorney now in sole practice in the US. The conversation today focuses on immigration to the United States from a foreign country.

In this episode, you will learn:

Common reasons for immigration to the United States.
The process of immigrating to the US, including the types of visas available and how they differ in terms of eligibility and benefits.
The process and requirements for obtaining permanent residency (Green Card) in the US.
Common challenges and obstacles immigrants face during the process.
How the US tax system applies to immigrants, and the tax implications for different types of visa holders.
The potential tax pitfalls that immigrants should be aware of to avoid legal issues.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Episode 156 – The Tax Implications of Moving Abroad With David Lesperance and Melvin Warshaw | Melvinawarshaw.com | Contact Melvin: melvin.warshaw@gmail.com | lesperanceassociates.com | Contact David: David@lesperanceassociates.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Are you also tired of putting off your dreams until “tomorrow?” Why not just Do It Today?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the eleventh book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Do It Today: Overcome Procrastination, Improve Productivity, and Achieve More Meaningful Things by Darius Foroux. This “best of” article collection helps readers overcome procrastination, improve their productivity, and achieve all the things they’ve always wanted.

In this episode, we discuss:

What procrastination is, and the cost of procrastination.
Prioritization: How to identify and focus on your most important tasks.
Why we should ditch perfectionism and embrace the idea of “good enough.”
How to implement effective planning strategies into your own life.
How to hold yourself accountable.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Do It Today: Overcome Procrastination, Improve Productivity, and Achieve More Meaningful Things | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Many people wonder how their own finances will change as their children become independent. Where do parents draw the line with their children? What level of involvement and/or support should the parents maintain with their children? What are some planning points that parents need to be aware of, and how can they make smart decisions that benefit themselves and their children? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis provides guidance on what step you can take now, and in the future, to keep yourself on track for personal and financial success as your child becomes independent.

In this episode, you will learn:

How parents can maintain access to their child’s important health, financial and academic information after their child becomes independent.
How financial goals may change (or need to be revisited) once their child leaves the house and becomes independent.
How parents can determine the extent to which their child will remain commingled with their finances as they become independent (taxes, health insurance, auto insurance, gifting, etc.).
How parents can evaluate the level of risk/liability their child may pose to their own finances.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Download the Interactive Checklist | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Unlock the secrets to a thriving partnership in this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast. Host Marc Bautis is joined by Dr. Michael Jaquith, a Ph. D. Chemist who left the corporate world and now helps men everywhere discover how to get more of what they want and live the promise of abundant life. By combining analytical science, psychology, and teachings of faith, Michael helps men who feel stuck, confused, and powerless to unlock those chains and find what they really want. In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Michael Jaquith provides actionable tips and insights for men looking to improve their marriage and steer clear of divorce.

In this episode, you will learn:

What encourages men to get more control over their lives.
How men can make real changes to long-term struggles.
Various ways men can improve their marriages and relationships.
How to communicate with your spouse openly and honestly.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | catholiclifecoachformen.com | Catholic Life Coach for Men Podcast| Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Are you feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about estate planning? We got you covered in this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast. Together, Marc Bautis and John Williams break down what you should know about the process before your first estate planning session. From identifying critical decisions about your assets to getting clear on your estate planning goals, digesting this information can help you make well-informed choices tailored to your unique needs.

In this episode, you will learn:

What relevant information you’ll need to bring to your first estate planning meeting.
How to determine your goals and objectives for estate planning.
The differences between the key players in your estate plan – beneficiaries, heirs, guardian, executor and trustee.
The most common estate planning documents.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | MyAdvocate | Episode 60 – How Using a Professional Executor Can Improve Your Estate Planning with Anthony Park | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Have you ever been curious about the hidden opportunities that lie beyond Wall Street’s reach, but not sure where to find them? This informational episode about investing in private markets will provide context, and a very useful resource to help you do just that.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Leif Hartwig, Founder and CEO of WealthVP, a subscription-based platform that matches private investors with high-quality companies seeking funding. Leif draws on over 30 years of experience in the software startups and financial service industries.

In this episode, you will learn:

How companies are getting funded through private investments.
The difference between private investments and venture capital investments.
What makes a private company investible.
The risks associated with private investing.
How companies can use WealthVP, an investor community that matches high-quality private companies for investment.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | wealthvp.com | leif@wealthvp.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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Let’s dive into the essential topic that plagues many families: finding the perfect balance between paying for college and saving for retirement. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by John Williams, Wealth Advisor at Bautis Financial and a college planning expert. Together, they provide valuable insights, practical tips, and expert advice on how families can strike a balance between paying for college and saving for retirement.

In this episode, you will learn:

The current challenges families face when it comes to balancing the costs of college education and saving for retirement.
Key factors families should consider when deciding how much to allocate towards college savings versus retirement savings
How families can estimate the future costs of college education and retirement.
The potential consequences of neglecting retirement savings in favor of funding college education, and how can families find a reasonable balance between the two.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Episode 158 - How Goal Planning Can Help You Achieve Financial Fulfillment | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Patti Handy, a Certified Life Coach, Certified Executive Coach, published author of four books, and the brains behind Minding Her Money, a roadmap and training for divorced, widowed and single women to quickly improve financial confidence.

In this episode, you will learn:

What Patti Handy’s divorce journey was like, and how it led her to coaching other divorcees.
The steps a divorced woman should take when it comes to their money.
Common mistakes women make when it comes to managing money.
How to filter through competing financial advice and get the proper help.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | pattihandy.com | Minding Her Money | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In an age where technology permeates every aspect of our lives, cyber threats loom larger than ever before. Thus, it’s necessary we all take the time to educate ourselves on cyber threats and utilize tools to prevent them. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Mikhail Itenberg. Mikhail has been working in and managing internal IT departments for 15+ years. He is the owner of Zaks Technologies, a technology services provider for businesses, which includes onsite and remote tech support, proactive monitoring, technology consulting, and outsourced IT support services. Tune in to discover how you can safeguard your digital world!

In this episode, you will learn:

The most common types of cyber security threats.
Practical steps you can take to protect your personal information online.
How to create secure passwords, utilizing password managers and multi-factor authentication.
How to identify phishing emails to avoid falling victim to scams.
Precautions to take when conducting financial transactions online.
And more!

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From healthcare to automobiles, agriculture to hospitality, manufacturing, or education, AI is increasingly impacting every industry. In fact, by 2030, it’s estimated that artificial intelligence will add 15.7 trillion dollars to the world's GDP, boosting it by 14 percent. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Manuj Aggarwal, an elite technology consultant, business mentor and global thought leader who has been in AI for 15 years. Together, they talk about all things AI.

In this episode, you will learn:

What AI (artificial intelligence) is, and why it’s suddenly everywhere.
How AI will change the way we live.
How we can take advantage of AI to achieve more in our personal lives and businesses.
The risk and dangers of AI.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Manuj.ca | manujaggarwal.com | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the tenth book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Money: The True Story of a Made-Up Thing by Jacob Goldstein. In Money, Jacob Goldstein shows how money is a useful fiction that has shaped societies for thousands of years, from the rise of coins in ancient Greece to the first stock market in Amsterdam to the emergence of shadow banking in the 21st century.

In this episode, we discuss:

The history and evolution of money.
The concept of value and how money derives its worth.
The power and influence of money.
Technology and the future of money.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Money: The True Story of a Made-Up Thing | Listen to Previous Episodes of the Bautis Financial Book Club | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Alex Sonkin, founder of The Due Diligence Project™ and The Virtual Family Office Hub™, a platform of vetted resources that supports hundreds of leading tax-focused CPA firms and family offices around the country. Alex also authored a book, The Due Diligence Project™ and is the host of The Due Diligence Project™ podcast.

In this episode, you will learn:

How The Due Diligence Project™ helps tax-focused CPAs.
Why The Due Diligence Project™ community was formed.
What a virtual family office is, and why The Virtual Family Office Hub™ was created.
The complexity of the U.S. tax code.
And more!

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Financial fulfillment means different things to different people. For some, it may be the freedom to travel the world and experience new cultures. For others, it might be the ability to support their families without financial stress. Whatever it means to you, goal planning serves as the stepping stones that bridge the gap between where you are today and where you want to be in the future. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis dives deep into the topic of goal planning.

In this episode, you will learn:

The importance of goal planning.
How to identify your goals.
How to analyze your goals.
How to prioritize your goals.
How to execute your goals.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Goals Checklist | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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The government spends billions of dollars each year on goods and services, and by tapping into this vast marketplace, small businesses can secure lucrative deals, gain steady income and heightened visibility. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis and guest Richard C. Howard dive deep into the world of government contracts.

As a career military acquisitions officer, Howard oversaw $82B+ in DoD contracts, and has advised and trained over 400 companies as a consultant. He’s the CEO of DoD Contract – which guides, trains, and mentors small business owners and sales executives through the government sales process – and the host of DoD Contract Academy Podcast.

In this episode, you will learn:

The benefits of selling to the US government as a small business.
How small businesses can find opportunities to sell their products or services to the government.
How small businesses can stand out in the government procurement process.
How small businesses and startups can utilize the Small Business Innovation Research Program.
And more!

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Imagine the allure of blue coastlines, vibrant cultures, and the freedom of living life on your own terms – the thrill of a fresh start in a new country! But amid the excitement, it's crucial to untangle the complex web of tax laws that accompany such a life change. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by David Lesperance and Melvin Warshaw. David is Managing Partner of Lesperance & Associates, one of the world's leading international tax and immigration advisors. Melvin is a highly regarded, longtime US cross-border tax and private client attorney now in sole practice in the US. Together, David and Melvin have successfully advised scores of U.S. and non-U.S. individuals and families on a wide range of personal and business tax matters, especially in connection with cross-border income and estate tax planning and compliance in the U.S.

In this episode, you will learn:

What’s driving Americans to leave the country to get a second citizenship, or give up US citizenship.
What citizen options are available across the globe.
How to properly plan for expatriating from the U.S.
The tax pitfalls Americans moving abroad should try to avoid, and how.
How to decide when to renounce your citizenship.
And more!

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While this podcast aims to provide valuable insights into tax strategies for business owners, it does not replace the guidance of a qualified tax professional. Tax planning is complex, and requires you to seek professional advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

Attention, business owners! Are you ready to unlock some secrets to maximizing your profits? Tune into this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, where host Marc Bautis is joined by John Briggs, Founder of Incite Tax, a CPA firm focused on serving business owners, and the author of Profit First for Microgyms: A Simple System for Healthy Cashflow. Through his 12+ years of entrepreneurship, he has helped business owners combat IRS bullying, improve cash flow management, and manage stress and burn out.

In this episode, you will learn:

The greatest challenge business owners face concerning finances.
Simple tips for business owners who feel overwhelmed with their financial situation.
Why a business owner should review their entity structure.
What business owners need to know about business expenses/write-offs.
What the corporate rent rule is, and how business owners can use it to their advantage.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Incitetax.com | profitfirstformicrogyms.com | Profit First for Microgyms: A Simple System for Healthy Cashflow | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Profit First for Microgyms: A Simple System for Healthy Cashflow

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Are you tired of being limited to just stocks, bonds and mutual funds in your retirement account? It’s time to discover the world of self-directed IRAs, where the investment options are endless. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Mat Sorensen, CEO of Directed IRA and the best-selling author of the go-to book for investors and professionals in the self-directed IRA industry, titled "The Self Directed IRA Handbook: An Authoritative Guide For Self Directed Retirement Plan Investors and Their Advisors.” His knowledge as an attorney is sought-after for real estate, private funds, notes, rules and regulations.

In this episode, you will learn:

What a self-directed IRA is, and how it differs from a traditional IRA.
What types of assets you can invest in using a self-directed IRA.
How to use a self-directed IRA specifically to invest in real estate.
The risks and potential benefits of investing with a self-directed IRA.
How to set up a self-directed IRA, and how to ensure you are compliant with the IRS regulations when using a self-directed IRA.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | directedIRA.com | The Self-Directed IRA Handbook: An Authoritative Guide For Self Directed Retirement Plan Investors and Their Advisors | Mat Sorensen Social Channels: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Tiktok | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

The Self-Directed IRA Handbook, Second Edition: An Authoritative Guide For Self Directed Retirement Plan Investors and Their Advisors

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Victoria Volk, an Advanced Certified Grief Recovery Specialist®, Usui and Karuna Reiki Master, YouMap® Certified Coach and End-of-Life Doula. She is also a self-published author and host of Grieving Voices Podcast. Victoria aims to use her strengths and skills through a variety of offerings to help those whose lives have been upended by grief and loss go from surviving to thriving.

In this episode, you will learn:

The definition of grief, and how grief can be linked to money.
Some of the ways that grief manifests in people’s lives.
A variety of myths about grief.
What grief recovery is.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | theunleashedheart.com | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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Whether you are a novice or experienced investor, it is critical to review your investment portfolio at least once per year – but particularly during times of uncertainty and volatility. A portfolio review can help you evaluate and confirm your strategy, ensuring alignment with your financial goals, and much more. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Kayla Waller, Paraplanner at Bautis Financial, to guide you through five important considerations to make when you conduct an investment portfolio review.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to review the risk you are taking with your investments and adjust your asset allocation.
Why significant positions that represent a large percentage of your portfolio should be considered during an investment portfolio review.
Reasons for consolidating accounts in your portfolio.
Reasons for opening new accounts in your portfolio.
How to create a plan for periods of market volatility.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Complete the Checklist | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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Sara Blakely was once a door-to-door fax machine salesperson. Now, she’s the founder of Spanx – a billion-dollar company that sells undergarments, leggings, and swimwear – despite having no fashion, retail, or business leadership experience. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the ninth book assignment in their monthly Book Club,The Spanx Story: What's Underneath the Incredible Success of Sara Blakely's Billion Dollar Empire by Charlie and Stephanie Wetzel.

In this episode, you will learn:

The Spanx origin story.
How Spanx became a billion-dollar business.
Examples of how Sara Blakely embraced failure to find success.
How Spanx founder Sara Blakely pays it forward.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | The Spanx Story: What's Underneath the Incredible Success of Sara Blakely's Billion Dollar Empire | Listen to Previous Episodes of the Bautis Financial Book Club | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

The Spanx Story: What's Underneath the Incredible success of Sara Blakely's Billion Dollar Empire (The Business Storybook Series)

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Toby Mathis, a 25-year tax attorney and founding partner at Anderson Advisors. Mathis advances his client's interests by combining expert tax advice with his personal experiences investing in over 200 real estate projects in the US. His expertise reaches many others through his award-winning publications, including Tax-Wise Business Ownership and Infinity Investing: How the Rich Get Richer and How You Can Do the Same.

In this episode, you will learn:

What it means to infinity invest, including the five infinity sources of passive income.
The top asset categories that Toby has seen make the biggest returns.
How dividend kings provide decades of growth.
How covered calls work and how to use them.
And more!

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Bob Elliott, the CEO and Chief Investment Officer at Unlimited Funds, a startup ETF company making diversified, low cost index ETFs available to every investor. Its first product, the HFND ETF, is one of the fastest growing actively managed independent ETF launches of the last few years.

In this episode, you will learn:

What led Bob Elliott to becoming the CEO of Unlimited Funds.
Everything you need to know about Unlimited Funds’ first product, the HFND ETF.
The benefits of diversification.
Strategies investors can employ to diversify their portfolio.
Takeaways from the current market conditions.
And more!

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Henry Svec, a bee-keeper – or “bee-helper” – at the Wildflower Bee Farm, a 50 acre bee sanctuary in Southwestern Ontario that Henry and his wife Mary opened in 2020, after converting it from a cash crop operation that the family previously owned. Henry combined his knowledge of honeybees with his 40 years of experience in investing to write a children’s book, What Grandpa Learned From His Honeybees: The Little Book to Be Smart with Your Money and Help the Environment.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why Henry Svec and his wife decided to transform their cash crop operation into a bee sanctuary.
How Wildflower Bee Farm is educating children on the importance of honeybees.
The correlation between honeybees and investing.
Some of the major lessons honeybees can teach us about finance and investing.
Plus, a lot of interesting facts about honeybees!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | What Grandpa Learned From His Honeybees: The Little Book to Be Smart with Your Money and Help the Environment | wildflowerbeefarm.com | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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Panic set in this week when Silicon Valley Bank collapsed and the failure of a second bank followed. Is it 2008 all over again? Should we be worried about the financial system collapsing? First and foremost, take a deep breath. Second, let's discuss. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis discusses what happened, what could happen next, and actions you can take to protect yourself and your money.

In this episode, you will learn:

What we know about the Silicon Valley Bank collapse.
If you should be worried about more banks (or your bank) collapsing.
The role the FDIC takes to protect your money.
What SIPC Insurance is, and how it is different from FDIC.
Actions you can take to protect yourself and your money.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | FDIC Insurance Account Categories | FDIC Search for Institutions Tool | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by C. David Cain, President and CEO of Heroes Home Advantage, a program that offers military, law enforcement, firefighters, health care, emergency personnel, and teachers a discount or rebate when purchasing real estate. Together, they talk about how the Heroes Home Advantage program works.

In this episode, you will learn:

What the Heroes Home Advantage Program is.
How the Heroes Home Advantage Program works, including how and when heroes receive rebates for real estate.
How the Heroes Home Advantage Program differs from other similar programs.
How to get involved in the program, on both the hero and partner side.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | heroeshomeadvantage.com | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by John K. Ross, Founder of Ross & Shoalmire Elder Law Attorneys. John is a nationally recognized expert in estate planning, asset protection and taxation with over twenty years of law practice. Together, they discuss the process of estate planning, including the elements of a proper plan and considerations to make along the way.

In this episode, you will learn:

The basic elements of an estate plan.
If you should self-fund for long-term care or get long-term care insurance.
The uses of a will and a trust, and how to determine if you need one or the other (or both).
How frequently you should review and update your estate planning documents.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | rossandshoalmire.com | Big Picture Retirement Podcast | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Nate Lind, an entrepreneur, the author of Maximum Exit: The Definitive Guide for Internet & Technology-Focused Business Founders, and a business broker at Website Closers, the largest marketplace of $1 million to $150 million dollar internet, technology and e-commerce businesses.

In this episode, you will learn:

The primary three reasons why business owners decide to sell their company.
How to calculate what your business is worth, and strategies you can use to increase the value.
The types of business buyers.
How to determine the best time to sell your business.
The different types of deal structures.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | nate@websiteclosers.com | Website Closers | Maximum Exit: The Definitive Guide for Internet & Technology-Focused Business Founders | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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The loss of a job can cause serious stress, personally and financially. To help you navigate this disruption in employment, Agent of Wealth Podcast host Marc Bautis lays out exactly what you should do when you lose your job. All of the steps discussed in this podcast episode are succinctly listed in this Job Loss Checklist.

If you are still employed, you’ll still want to tune into the episode to understand how you can better prepare yourself in the event a job loss occurs in your future.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to run a job loss scenario.
After you lose your job, how to create a plan for depleting your reserves (or savings).
A variety of health insurance options for those who recently experienced a job loss.
How to put a budget, or spending plan, in place after the loss of an income.
How to prepare your finances for a job loss, in the event that it does occur in the future.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Complete the Checklist | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the eighth book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Hero on a Mission: A Path to a Meaningful Life. Some people live stories that are filled with significance and meaning, while others feel as though they’ve lost the plot. In Hero on a Mission, Donald Miller explores the principles that make a story meaningful and then helps us apply those principles to our lives.

In this episode, you will learn:

The four roles we play in life: the victim, the villain, the hero, the guide.
How – and why – to write your own eulogy.
How to cast your long- and short-term visions.
How to apply Hero on a Mission to your life.
And more!

This is the eighth episode in the Bautis Financial Book Club series. Listen to the other episodes:

Episode 75 – Atomic Habits by James Clear
Episode 76 – The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek
Episode 88 – Elon Musk – Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee Vance
Episode 100 – Animal Spirits by George Akerlof and Robert Shiller
Episode 109 – Stacked: Your Super-Serious Guide to Modern Money Management
Episode 125 – Think Again by Adam Grant
Episode 132 – How to Get All You Can From Your Money and “Die With Zero”

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Hero on a Mission: A Path to a Meaningful Life | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Chris Donaldson, a world traveler and the author of the book Going the Wrong Way, a coming-of-age, self-help book about a road trip like no other. This year, 42 years after his first journey, Chris is setting out on another adventure across the world. Today we will talk about the power of travel and reasons to journey around the world in retirement.

In this episode, you will learn:

The story behind Chris Donaldson’s Going the Wrong Way.
Why Chris Donaldson is hitting the road again for a second motorcycle road trip, and how this trip differs from the first one, 42 years ago.
Compelling reasons to travel solo.
Reasons to journey and explore in retirement.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Going the Wrong Way | chrisdonaldson.world | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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As if Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) weren’t confusing enough, there have been recent tweaks to the tax code from The SECURE Act, The SECURE Act 2.0 and the CARES Act. So, if you’re close to retirement age, you probably have a lot of questions about this topic (and you’re not alone). In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis does a deep dive into RMDs.

In this episode, you will learn:

What a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) is.
How a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) is calculated.
Why learning about RMDs now is important, even if you’re years away from your 70’s.
RMD planning opportunities that can mitigate the impact of RMDs.
How The SECURE Act 2.0 changed Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) rules.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Complete the Checklist | 12 Answers to the Most Asked RMD Questions | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Tracy Coenen, a forensic accountant and the brains behind The Divorce Money Guide. Tracy’s passion lies in helping those who feel powerless in their financial situation while going through – or after – a divorce. By following her carefully laid out steps, people in the process of divorce go from uninformed and overwhelmed to feeling in control of their finances.

In this episode, you will learn:

The first thing you should do with your finances if you’re thinking about filing for divorce.
How to figure out if your partner is hiding money or assets.
Financial “red flags” to look for in a marriage or divorce.
A variety of financial tips for a divorcee who has not typically managed the family’s finances.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | The Divorce Money Guide | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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1 in 3 Americans are planning to make finance-related New Year’s resolutions, and 31% of those people with a financial resolution want to save more, according to a poll from WalletHub. If you’re in the same boat and want to save more, this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast provides a detailed overview of all the savings vehicles. In it, host Marc Bautis walks through a checklist that covers all the factors you should consider when opening up or contributing to a savings account.

In this episode, you will learn:

What a savings rate is, and how it fits into the three-legged financial stool.
Savings options within employer benefit plans, including employee-sponsored 401ks, HSAs, stock options, and more.
Investment and retirement accounts to consider, including the pros and cons of a Roth versus traditional account.
Smart ways for business owners to save
Ways to save for children or grandchildren.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Complete the Checklist | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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eCommerce business owners, listen in! In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Irina Poddubnaia, Founder of TrackMage, a software for eCommerce sellers that helps them track packages, and a business consultant who specializes in operations and processes optimization. Irina shares tips for growing eCommerce companies that need help optimizing their process and standing out in the highly competitive market.

In this episode, you will learn:

Current challenges in the eCommerce business, including the impact of COVID and supply chain disruptions.
Possible, future challenges in the eCommerce business,
Three strategies that allow companies to survive and thrive in a recession (automating processes, reducing operational costs and getting extra revenue from existing customers).
How eCommerce companies can improve their revenue stream.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Trackmage.com | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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Complete the Checklist!

The start of the new year is a great time to do a financial check-up. In addition to reflecting back on 2022, you may feel particularly motivated in January to consider making financial resolutions for the future. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis helps guide you toward impactful improvements by outlining some of the most important considerations to make in a free, downloadable checklist.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to set, revisit and achieve your financial goals.
How to accurately determine your savings rate, and how to improve it year-over-year.
How to review your investment progress and strategy at the start of the year.
How to revisit your assets and debt to evaluate whether your risk tolerance continues to be appropriate.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Complete the Checklist | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

The beginning of the new year is the perfect time to discuss the various factors influencing your planning. If you’re looking for guidance on your financial situation, our team of financial advisors are always here to help. Schedule an Introductory Call.

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For some, cryptocurrency and NFTs are a headache. For others, taxes are a headache. But when you combine them all, you’ll find widespread confusion, even among experienced investors. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Micah Fraim, CPA, Partner at Fraim, Cawley & Company, CPAs and the bestselling author of Decrypting Crypto Taxes and The Little Big Small Business Book. Fraim is a self-proclaimed crypto- and NFT-obsessed CPA with a slew of knowledge to back it up!

In this episode, you will learn:

How cryptocurrency trades and NFTs are taxed.
Tax-efficient strategies for crypto and NFTs.
How to track your cryptocurrency activity in preparation for tax season.
IRS laws and legislation on cryptocurrency and digital assets.
Future forecasts for cryptocurrency/digital asset tax.
And more!

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Now that the Georgia Senate runoff election has come to a close, we finally have some clarity into what the political landscape looks like following the U.S. midterm elections. Now the question becomes, how will the results impact the markets? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis goes over the key takeaways from the election, possible policy changes to look out for and shares his predictions for how it will all impact the markets – and, in turn, your portfolio.

In this episode, you will learn:

Key takeaways from the 2022 midterm elections.
How the 2022 midterm election outcomes will affect bi-partisan, Democrat and Republican policies.
What you need to know about The SECURE Acts.
How markets historically react to election years.
Predictions for the markets following the 2022 midterm elections.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Adam Carroll, Founder of The Shred Method™, a fintech software company that creates behavior change for people who want to blast away debt, build wealth, and achieve financial independence. Together, they discuss helpful tips for debt management and wealth creation.

In this episode, you will learn:

Everything you need to know about The Shred Method™.
How home ownership can be used as a tool to build wealth.
How to use a HELOC as a cash flow technique.
How to make your income more efficient.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | www.theshredmethod.com | hello@theshredmethod.com | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the seventh book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Die with Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life by Bill Perkins. Die with Zero presents a startling new and provocative philosophy and guide on how to get the most out of your money (and out of your life). It’s intended for those who place lifelong memorable experiences far ahead of simply making and accumulating money for one’s so-called Golden Years.

In this episode, you will learn:

What it means to “Die With Zero.”
How experiences create memories that pay back in the form of dividends throughout your life.
Strategies to employ that will help you “Die With Zero.”
How to time-bucket your life.
How to “Know Your Peak.”
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Die with Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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While building wealth takes a whole lot of time and effort, your valuable assets can be taken from you in an instant if they’re not protected correctly. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Brian T. Bradley, the Senior Managing Partner at Bradley Legal Corp, a leading educator and nationally recognized asset protection attorney for high-risk professionals, entrepreneurs, real estate investors and ultra-high-net-worth families. Brain’s goal is to give you a peace of mind, knowing your assets are safe, by making it difficult for predatory lawyers to target vulnerable people.

In this episode, you will learn:

What asset protection is.
The three layers of asset protection.
How to properly layer your asset protection plan as you and your wealth grows.
What asset protection trusts are, and the differences between the three main types (foreign, domestic, hybrid).
Three misconceptions about asset protection.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | www.btblegal.com | brian@btblegal.com | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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Did you know that 70% of Americans over the age of 75 are going to need some sort of assistance in their daily life? That’s why having a post-retirement aging plan is important for everyone to consider. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Allison O'Shea, owner of Openly Aging LLC. Allison is a leader in the aging industry with over 17 years of hands-on experience working with seniors and their families in the role of Executive Director for various senior living companies. Together, they talk about aging options, tips and tricks for those in caregiving roles and those approaching retirement age.

In this episode, you will learn:

What post-retirement aging is.
How our society contributes to ageism by not talking about aging.
When you should start thinking about post-retirement aging.
How to adapt aging plans as things change.
What to do if your aging loved one is resistant to help.
Resources for post-retirement aging.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Openlyaging.com | allisonoshea@openlyaging.com | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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By now, we’ve all experienced the impact of inflation. But just how long will we have to feel the pinch? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Bautis Financial Wealth Manager and Founder Marc Bautis provides an in-depth overview of inflation and explains that there is an end in sight.

In this episode, you will learn:

What is inflation?
What’s behind rising inflation?
Has inflation reached its peak?
How the Federal Reserve seeks to tame inflation.
Silver linings to high inflation.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | New Federal Income Tax Brackets for 2023 | How I Bonds Can Hedge Against Inflation | Should You Add Fixed Income Investments to Your Portfolio? | Using Leading Indicators to Predict Market Performance | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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With about two billion cups consumed daily, coffee is one of the most popular drinks worldwide. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis is joined by Josh Ziegelbaum, the Director of Investor Relations at Legacy Group, an alternative asset manager that includes The Green Coffee Company (GCC). Since being founded in 2017, The Green Coffee Company has become a disruptive force in the Colombian coffee industry and is now the largest coffee producer in Colombia. Together, they discuss the intricacies of investing in coffee through Legacy Group’s GCC.

In this episode, you will learn:

Compelling reasons for US investors to expand into emerging markets.
The Green Coffee Company’s innovative business model, which allows complete control of the coffee supply chain, from cultivation, through processing, to direct trade with end-clients.
How US market challenges such as inflation and labor shortages have (or haven’t) affected the Colombian coffee industry.
How you, as an investor, can be a part of The Green Coffee Company’s growth.
Why The Green Coffee Company is considered an impact investment.
And more!

Resources:

Legacy-group.co | investor.relations@legacy-group.co | Legacy Group’s YouTube Channel | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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Economic indicators are valuable tools for investors, but just how weight should we give them? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Financial Planner Kayla Waller to discuss everything you need to know about economic indicators. While there is valuable information in metrics such as the monthly jobs reports and the US treasury yield curve, understanding their relative strengths and limitations will improve your decision making as an investor.

In this episode, you will learn:

What indicators are, and how leading indicators are used in the financial industry.
An overview of the key leading indicators used by investors; how they are calculated, what they can tell you, how accurate they have been in the past, etc.
What you have to watch out for when using leading indicators.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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Gone are the days of high school students waiting until their Junior Year to consider college. Nowadays, students and families that wait until eleventh grade to have a discussion about higher education options (and costs) are behind. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis and John Williams are joined by Shellee Howard, founder and CEO of College Ready and CR Tutoring and Test Strategies. Howard is a college graduate, a Certified Independent College Strategist, and the best-selling author of How to Send Your Student to College Without Losing Your Mind or Your Money. Together, they discuss why organizing your family’s financial house needs to begin as soon as your child enters their Sophomore year. Plus, how a student can build a better list of colleges, stand out amongst other applicants, and negotiate a financial aid award letter.

In this episode, you will learn:

When to start financially planning for college, and when to start academically planning for college.
How a student can stand out when applying for colleges.
The seven factors that make up a strong college application, and which ones have the most impact.
Common misconceptions about applying for college and scholarships.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | College Ready | CR Tutoring and Test Strategies | Claim your free copy of How to Send Your Student to College Without Losing Your Mind or Your Money: freebook.collegereadyplan.com | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the sixth book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don't Know by Adam Grant. In 320 pages, Grant weaves together research, analysis and storytelling to help readers build the intellectual and emotional muscle required to stay curious enough about the world to actually change it.

In this episode, we discuss:

What it means to think like a scientist, and why we should all employ this strategy.
What confirmation bias is and how it can affect your decision-making skills.
How to embrace the joy of being wrong.
And more!

This is the sixth episode in the Bautis Financial Book Club series. Listen to the other episodes:

Episode 75 – Bautis Financial Book Club: Atomic Habits by James Clear
Episode 76 – Bautis Financial Book Club: The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek
Episode 88 – Bautis Financial Book Club: Elon Musk – Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee Vance
Episode 100 – Bautis Financial Book Club: Animal Spirits by George Akerlof and Robert Shiller
Episode 109 – Bautis Financial Book Club: Stacked: Your Super-Serious Guide to Modern Money Management

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don't Know| Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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The unprecedented uncertainty brought about by the global COVID pandemic has made investors far more risk-averse than presumed. Some have considered adding an asset like gold to their portfolio, which has typically been viewed as a hedge against economic turmoil. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Patrick Yip, the Director of Business Development at APMEX and OneGold. APMEX is one of the largest retailers of physical gold, silver, platinum and palladium, selling over $15 billion in product over its 20+ year history. OneGold is a fast-growing online precious metals platform that has processed over $750 million in transactions during its first three years in business.

In this episode, you will learn:

How gold stacks up against the three other types of precious metals, and modern uses for each.
Reasons why gold and other precious metals can perform positively during inflationary periods.
Why more people are turning to gold as a form of currency in recent years.
How to invest in tangible precious metals through APMEX and digital precious metals through OneGold.
More trends in gold and the precious metals industry.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | APMEX: Precious Metals Dealer (Metals You Hold) | OneGold: Buy Digital Metals (Vaulted Metals) | Contact Patrick Yip: patrick.yip@apmex.com | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Get 50% off gold and silver premiums on onegold.com using Coupon Codes:
GOLD50OFF (for Gold Premiums)
SILVER50OFF (for Silver Premiums)

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Have you noticed your energy bill increase? You’re not alone. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s Short Term Energy Outlook, the average price of electricity is expected to increase 3.3% in 2023, and prices are already 7.5% higher today than they were in 2021. And energy isn’t the only thing pinching the wallets of Americans – costs at the gas pump, grocery store (and more) are up. If you’re looking to save, you may want to consider some home improvements. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Erin Shine, founder of AttainableHome.com, a company that creates wealth and prosperity through building of modern, sustainable and high quality homes within reach of household incomes.

In this episode, you will learn:

What it means to be net zero, and what it means to live in a net zero home.
Low cost DIY projects you can do to improve your home’s efficiency.
How sustainable upgrades add value to your home in the short- and long-term.
Useful tips to keep in mind when considering to install solar energy to your home.
How Erin Shine created the concept of Attainable Home.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | attainablehome.com | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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If you or your child has student loan debt, listen in! In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by John Williams, Wealth Advisor at Bautis Financial. Together, they provide the need-to-know facts regarding the student loan debt forgiveness plan coming out of The White House.

In this episode, you will learn:

The three main parts of the student loan debt relief plan.
How to determine if you are eligible for student loan debt forgiveness.
What you need to do to get forgiveness.
If you will owe taxes on the student loan amount.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | White House Fact Sheet: Student Loan Debt Relief Plan | studentaid.gov | Sign up for alerts from the Department of Education: www.ed.gov/subscriptions | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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According to Schwab’s Modern Wealth Survey, 73% of Americans say their personal values guide how they make life decisions more today than they did two years ago, and 69% say that supporting causes they care most about are a top consideration when it comes to their financial decisions. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Luke Wilcox, founder of Ethos ESG, a FinTech platform for financial advisors, investors and institutions to align money with causes they care about, including racial justice, climate change, LGBTQ equality and more.

In this episode, you will learn:

What is ESG investing, in a nutshell?
Perspectives on the rise of values-based investing.
How Ethos ESG’s platform works to align people with their purpose.
How companies like Ethos ESG measure the impact of values-based investing.
What to look for in the future of ESG and values-based investing.
And more!

Resources:

Ethosesg.com | business@ethosesg.com | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Jarid Beck, the Director and Co-Founder of Risk Management Advisors, Inc., a firm specializing in creating and managing captive insurance firms for businesses. Beck is a recognized expert in the design, implementation, and management of alternative risk management strategies. He has a diverse insurance background, allowing him to deliver insurance solutions to clients in a wide variety of industries.

In this episode, you will learn:

What is captive insurance?
Reasons for implementing captive insurance.
The process of implementing captive insurance.
Captive insurance costs.
The experience of captive insurance for the insured.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | riskmgmtadvisors.com/ | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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Studies show that there is a noticeable gender gap in financial literacy between men and women, particularly when it comes to investing. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Jewel Tankard, an economist turned financial powerhouse and author of The Mind of a Millionairess and Millionairess Lifestyle: Understanding the Price and the Process. Jewel’s mission to help women create wealth is executed through her Millionairess Club, a community with over 400 members across 10 countries. The club empowers women to trust their financial gut, improve their confidence, give them cash creation and wealth growing strategies.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to challenge your beliefs about money.
How couples can work on their finances together.
How confidence can create wealth opportunities.
An overview of Jewel Tankard’s mindset when it comes to investing.
Takeaways from Jewel Tankard’s experience on reality tv.
And more!

Resources:

jeweltankard.com | The Millionairess Club | The Mind of a Millionairess | Millionairess Lifestyle: Understanding the Price and the Process | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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Everything has led to this: You’ve contributed to your 401k, you’re invested the assets, and finally the time has come to withdraw the money. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast – the third in a three-part series on 401ks – host Marc Bautis shares some of the biggest mistakes people make at retirement age, when taking withdrawals from their account(s).

In this episode, you will learn:

Various tax implications to consider when creating a withdrawal strategy for retirement.
Issues to consider before taking a loan from your 401k.
What Rule 72(t) periodic payments are.
The six retirement options you have when you leave your job.
And more!

Listen to the first part, Mistakes to Avoid When Contributing to Your 401k. Listen to the second part, Mistakes to Avoid When Investing In Your 401k.

Resources:

Part 1: Mistakes to Avoid When Contributing to Your 401k | Part 2: Mistakes to Avoid When Investing In Your 401k | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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Arguably the most important decision you make when you participate in a 401k plan is how to invest the money you're contributing to your account. The type of investment portfolio you choose determines the rate at which your account has the potential to grow, therefore determining the income that'll be available when the time comes to withdraw at retirement age. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast – the second in a three-part series on 401ks – host Marc Bautis shares some of the biggest mistakes people make at this point in their journey to saving for retirement.

In this episode, you will learn:

What a target-date fund is.
The advantages and disadvantages to target-date funds.
Considerations to make when allocating your 401k.
How to uncover costs and fees associated with 401k funds.
And more!

Listen to the first part, Mistakes to Avoid When Contributing to Your 401k.

Resources:

Part 1: Mistakes to Avoid When Contributing to Your 401k | Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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Retirement is one of the most common financial goals – after all, most people don’t want to work their entire life. That said, retirement statistics reveal that three-quarters of Americans agree that the country is facing a retirement crisis. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis dives into the first episode of a three-part series on 401ks. Since its inception in 1978, the 401k plan has grown to become the most popular type of employer-sponsored retirement plan in the U.S. Millions of workers depend on the money they invest in these plans to provide for them in their retirement years. Tune in to uncover the mistakes you should avoid.

In this episode, you will learn:

The advantages of investing in a 401k account.
How to calculate how much money you need to retire.
Tax considerations for 401ks.
Common mistakes relating to 401k contribution plans.
And more!

Resources:

Schedule an Introductory Call | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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Business owners and high-income W2 earners, if you’re curious how to minimize the amount you owe come tax season, this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast is for you. In it, host Marc Bautis is joined by Mark Myers, the Founder and CEO of Peak Profit Solutions. Mark helps individuals reduce or eliminate tax without replacing their CPAs or financial investment advisors.

In this episode, you will learn:

How Peak Profit Solutions works with business owners and high-income W2 earners to reduce their tax bill.
Two tax-saving solutions for high-income earners.
Multiple tax-saving solutions for small- to medium-size business owners.
And more!

Resources:

Peakprofitsolutions.com | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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If you’ve recently uncovered a paper savings bond, this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast is for you! In it, Marc Bautis, Founder and Wealth Manager at Bautis Financial, breaks down the need-to-know facts about savings bonds.

In this episode, you will learn:

What savings bonds are, including the types of savings bonds.
How to calculate the value of your savings bonds.
How to redeem your savings bonds.
The tax implications of redeeming/selling your savings bonds.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Treasurydirect.gov | How to Calculate the Value of Your Savings Bonds | Tax Considerations for I Bonds | How I Bonds Can Hedge Against Inflation | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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According to insurance claim data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, the single biggest complaining consumers made was about unsatisfactory settlement offers. Experiencing an event such as a home fire, theft in home or flood is stressful enough, the claims process shouldn’t add to it. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Galen Hair, Owner of Insurance Claim HQ, a practice dedicated to fighting for the rights of policyholders when they experience a loss due to fire, flood, hurricane or from the insurance company not keeping their word. Through property-casualty insurance claims, Galen and his team have helped over 800 families rebuild their homes and businesses.

In this episode, you will learn:

An overview of how the insurance claims process works.
The top challenges that customers face when partaking in a claims process.
What to do if you disagree with an insurance adjuster.
How the insurance claims process has changed over the years.
How a property casualty insurance attorney can assist in challenges throughout the claims process.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | insuranceclaimhq.com | (844) CLAIM-84 | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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Over the course of the 20+ years Marc Bautis has been in the financial services industry, he’s seen and helped many people purchase real estate investment properties. Some of these investments have been prosperous, while others have led to financial disaster. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis shares the five biggest mistakes investors make when buying rental properties, and how to avoid them.

In this episode, Marc will detail the following:

Mistake 1: Believing that rental properties are a passive investment.
Mistake 2: Improper financial analysis before purchase.
Mistake 3: Incorrectly estimating expenses.
Mistake 4: Looking for the highest yielding property.
Mistake 5: Overextending yourself.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog |What Every Real Estate Investor needs to know about Cash Flow…And 36 Other Key Financial Measures|Biggerpockets.com | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

What Every Real Estate Investor Needs to Know About Cash Flow... And 36 Other Key Financial Measures, Updated Edition

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As American workers across multiple income levels face inflated prices on food, gas, housing and more, saving – wherever possible – has become a widespread goal. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Gordon Stein, an international keynote speaker, blogger, personal finance expert and author of Cashflow Cookbook: $2 Million of Financial Freedom in 60 Easy Recipes. Together, they break down some of the concepts in his book and provide actionable money-saving tips to increase your cashflow.

In this episode, you will learn:

Minimal effort strategies for reducing your monthly expenses.
How small changes in the way you manage your money can lead to big results, like financial freedom.
Other takeaways from Cashflow Cookbook: $2 Million of Financial Freedom in 60 Easy Recipes.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | cashflowcookbook.com | Cashflow Cookbook: $2 Million of Financial Freedom in 60 Easy Recipes| Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

Timestamps:
0:32 - Introduction to Guest Gordon Stein
1:06 - What to Expect from "Cashflow Cookbook: $2 Million of Financial Freedom in 60 Easy Recipes"
6:19 - Why Saving Does Not Need to Mean Sacrifice
9:03 - Minimal Effort Strategies for Reducing Your Monthly Expenses
11:04 - Money-Savings Strategies for Food & Drink

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Entrepreneurial statistics underscore a significant shift toward independent work. According to census data that dates back to 2004, Americans applied for a record-breaking 5.3 million business ID numbers in 2021, and 2022 is already on track to be a record-breaking year as well, according to projections from QuickBooks. What many future entrepreneurs may not know is there is ample opportunity to become a business owner through acquisition of an existing company. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Elliott Holland, founder of Guardian Due Diligence, a company that specializes in helping everyday people acquire businesses as investments to optimize ROI and create new millionaires. Together, they walk through the process of acquiring a business through the lens of a first-time buyer.

In this episode, you will learn:

Where to locate businesses that are for sale.
How to put in an offer on a business, including tips for business valuations.
How first-time business buyers can secure funding for the acquisition.
The do’s and don’ts of becoming a business owner.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Exclusive Offer from Elliott Holland, Guardian Due Diligence: offerfromelliott.com | guardianduediligence.com | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the fifth book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Stacked: Your Super-Serious Guide to Modern Money Management by Joe Saul-Sehy and Emily Guy Birken. In discussing Stacked, each member of the team discusses their favorite topic from the 14-chapter book, and provides actionable tips for managing financial matters like debt, insurance coverage and credit score.

In this episode, we discuss the team's favorite chapters of Stacked, on the topics of:

Debt
Insurance
Credit Cards
Goal Setting

This is the fifth episode in the Bautis Financial Book Club series. Listen to the other episodes:

Episode 75 – Bautis Financial Book Club: Atomic Habits by James Clear
Episode 76 – Bautis Financial Book Club: The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek
Episode 88 – Bautis Financial Book Club: Elon Musk – Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee Vance
Episode 100 – Bautis Financial Book Club: Animal Spirits by George Akerlof and Robert Shiller

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Stacked: Your Super-Serious Guide to Modern Money Management | Episode 108 – Stacked: Your Super-Serious Guide to Modern Money Management With Emily Guy Birken | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

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This is not your typical, jargon-filled financial podcast. In fact, the word “budget” comes with a warning label in this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast. Today, host Marc Bautis is joined by Emily Guy Birken, a former educator, lifelong money nerd and a Plutus Award-winning freelance writer specializing in the scientific research behind irrational money behaviors. She is the author of five books, including the newly released Stacked: Your Super-Serious Guide to Modern Money Management, written with Joe Saul-Sehy. Together, Emily and Marc break down some of the most important – but frequently overlooked – basics to successful money management.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to timeline your financial goals to make them more achievable.
How someone who is typically afraid to even check their bank account can slowly transition into loving the “b word” (budgeting).
Simple approaches for couples working through financial differences.
How – and why – to gamify your finances.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | emilyguybirken.com/aow | Stacked: Your Super-Serious Guide to Modern Money Management | The 5 Years Before You Retire | Bautis Financial: 7 N Mountain Ave Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000

The 5 Years Before You Retire: Retirement Planning When You Need It the Most

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In today’s market, more and more people are looking into fixed income: an investment approach focused on preserving capital and income in the form of a reliable income stream, typically with lower risk than stocks. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Bautis Financial Planner Kayla Waller to talk about the considerations an investor should make before adding fixed income investments to their portfolio.

In this episode, you will learn:

The various kinds of fixed income investments.
How interest rate changes trickle down to bonds, mortgages, savings accounts, etc.
The risks associated with investing in fixed income.
Fixed income strategies, such as bond ladders.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | How Building a Bond Ladder Can Hedge Against Rising Interest Rates | How I Bonds Can Hedge Against Inflation | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Joe Cecala, Founder and CEO of Dream Exchange, a new stock exchange that will focus on small business capital formation and diversity, allowing investors to empower emerging businesses in a way that has never been done before. Cecala was a securities lawyer for over 25 years – working on capital transactions for over 15 years – and found that small capital transactions were particularly difficult because there was no clear exit in sight for the investor. Cecala explains how Dream Exchange solves this long-standing problem and shares how investors and companies stand to benefit from this new exchange.

In this episode, you will learn:

The issues with A-typical, small capital transactions – both for the investor and the company.
The benefits to early stage investing, much of which has been impossible for investors to access/break into.
What it is that makes Dream Exchange unique and innovative.
How Dream Exchange intends to create a controlled, fair and ethical environment for economic expansion.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | DreamEx.com | DreamEx Connect | info@dreamex.com | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Stocks have been tumbling all year: The Nasdaq is down nearly 25% in 2022 and the S&P 500 is on a six-week losing streak and down almost 18% since its January high. Investors are wondering just how much more the markets will fall. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis addresses a variety of questions we’ve received regarding the current state of the economy.

In this episode, you will learn:

What a bear market is.
The factors that are contributing to the market drop.
Possible courses of action that investors can take when the market drops.
A list of items investors can direct their focus to that are controllable.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | How to Analyze Your 1040 Return To Be More Tax Efficient | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

Timestamps:
0:40 - Common Questions From Investors
0:55 - Why is The Market Dropping?
3:13 - What is a Bear Market?
5:18 - When Will the Markets Hit a Bottom?
8:03 - What Should You Do?
8:23 - Why Timing Doesn't Work
9:18 - What We Are Doing
10:30 - Should You Buy the Dip?
11:32 - What is a V-Shaped Recovery?
12:34 - Things You CAN Control

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As of 2022, there are 18,264 laundromat businesses in the United States that generate about $5 billion in combined nationwide gross annual revenue. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Dave Menz, aka “The Laundromat Millionaire.” Menz is the Founder and Owner of Queen City Laundry, host of Laundromat Millionaire Show and the author of Laundromat Millionaire: The Grit to Elevate an Industry. Together, they break the stigma of laundromat ownership by uncovering the real facts and figures that led to Menz’s millionaire status.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to enter the laundromat business, including how much capital is needed to start and how to identify strong locations.
How laundromats can evoke change in disparaged communities.
Tips for operating and staffing a laundromat business.
How to grow your laundromat business from a passive income source to a fully operated, fully staffed location.
And more!

Resources:

Laundromatmillionaire.com | Queen City Laundry | Laundromat Millionaire Show | Laundromat Millionaire: The Grit to Elevate an Industry | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Unless you requested a tax filing extension, you’re probably under the impression that tax season is over – you can sit back and relax until 2023. Not to burst your bubble, but if you want to be more tax efficient, you couldn’t be more incorrect. In fact, once you have your 1040 return in-hand, the hard work is just beginning. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis digs deeper into the 1040, uncovering which areas you should focus on for improving your tax savings.

In this episode, you will learn:

Reasons why tax planning should be done year-round.
The key sections of a tax return to look at when performing an analysis.
Potential tax-saving strategies – like Roth conversions – and investment tools – like ETFs.
Planning opportunities to look out for while conducting a review.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | (For Clients): How to Upload Your Tax Return to Your Vault | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

Timestamps:
0:44 - Why Tax Planning is Important
2:13 - What Your Tax Return Can Tell You
3:20 - What is Your Marginal Tax Rate / Tax Brackets
6:35 - Itemizing vs. Standard Deduction
8:32 - Investment Income and Capital Gains and Losses Review
13:29 - Other Reasons to Review Your Tax Return

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Coliving has captured the attention of many as the U.S. faces an affordable housing crisis. As market demand and product rapidly grow, opportunities for investors to get involved have followed. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis is joined by Johnny Wolff, the CEO and Founder of HomeRoom Coliving, one of the fastest growing coliving companies in the United States. Wolff’s love for living with roommates motivated him to start HomeRoom in 2017, after an unusually terrible Craigslist roommate experience. In 2020, the company boasted 99% on-time rent payments, full occupancy and zero evictions.

In this episode, you will learn:

What coliving is, and why it has grown in popularity across the nation.
The typical amenities a coliving space provides, including advantages over other forms of rental housing.
How coliving housing has fared during the COVID pandemic.
How investors can use HomeRoom’s services to transform single-family rentals into coliving properties.
The future of living: How Gen Z will amplify the trends that Millennials established, such as delayed marriage and living with roommates into their 30’s.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | livehomeroom.com | livehomeroom.com/invest | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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If you’re asked to name three ways to invest in real estate, what would be your response? You’d likely mention rental properties or house flipping. Perhaps even raw land or note investing – all of which The Agent of Wealth Podcast has covered (in depth). Today we’ll get to the bottom of two alternative real estate investments that might not have come to mind: self-storage and mobile homes.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Blake Templeton, a seasoned Real Estate professional who is passionate about helping investors invest confidently into alternative asset classes. Templeton is the President and CEO of Boron Capital, a regular contributor and writer for Forbes as a member of their Business Council, and a member of the Young Entrepreneurs Council.

In this episode, you will learn:

The benefits of alternative asset classes.
How to determine the best niches to invest in.
Self-storage facilities, as an investment.
Mobile home communities, as an investment.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | For more information about Boron Capital, text “Info” to 31996 | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the fourth book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Animal Spirits: How Human Psychology Drives the Economy, and Why It Matters for Global Capitalism by George Akerlof and Robert Shiller. In Animal Spirits, Nobel prize winner George Akerlof and Yale economics professor Robert Shiller assert that traditional economic theory places too much weight on quantifiable facts and not enough weight on emotion – “People have noneconomic motives. And they are not always rational in pursuit of their economic interests.”

In this episode, we discuss:

The five different aspects of Animal Spirits: confidence, the desire for fairness, corruption, money illusion and the importance of stories.
Whether or not we believe the concept of Animal Spirits should be incorporated into macroeconomic theory.
What our team liked most about the book.
What our team learned and took away from the book.
And more!

This is the fourth episode in the Bautis Financial Book Club series. Listen to the other episodes:

Episode 88 – Bautis Financial Book Club: Elon Musk – Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee Vance
Episode 76 – Bautis Financial Book Club: The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek
Episode 75 – Bautis Financial Book Club: Atomic Habits by James Clear

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Animal Spirits: How Human Psychology Drives the Economy, and Why It Matters for Global Capitalism | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Investing in vacant land may sound boring, on the surface. But the simplicity and stability that comes with owning the right piece of land – purchased at the right price – can far outweigh the variety of problems that come with any other type of real estate investment. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis is joined by Brent Bowers, a vacant land investor and coach. Bowers started investing in real estate in 2007, beginning with single-family homes, then multi-family homes, and finally to the kind of real estate that doesn’t involve tenants, termites or toilets: vacant land. Bowers now generates passive income as a vacant land investor, which gives him the time and opportunity to help aspiring real estate investors the ins and outs of purchasing and selling vacant land.

In this episode, you will learn:

How investing in land differs from investing in single family or multifamily homes.
Why someone already investing in real estate may want to consider investing in vacant land.
How to locate vacant land property owners, and vacant land buyers.
How to determine the value of vacant land.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Brent Bowers YouTube | wholesalinginc.com/land | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Parenting is hard, and children don’t come with directions. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Rachel Murphy, author of I Am Not Your ATM: A Practical Plan for Teaching Your Teen to Manage Money. Together, they discuss how to teach teens a variety of financial lessons – like how to avoid debt, how to create a budget, how to invest, and so on. Murphy, a parent, youth director and mentor to young adults, brings her expertise of teaching life and leadership skills to teens and their parents.

In this episode, you will learn:

The importance of financial literacy.
When to start teaching children about money.
How to teach financial literacy.
How to have conversations about college costs with teenagers.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | rachelmurphycoaching.com/agents | I Am Not Your ATM: A Practical Plan for Teaching Your Teen to Manage Money | Raising Confident Teens Podcast | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Travis Smith and his brothers realized if they were going to change their family’s trajectory and build wealth, they’d need to work together and invest as a group. But once they realized that group investing required a complicated path of lawyers, paperwork, banking regulations and more, they decided to solve a significant problem in investing and create the platform they so desperately needed.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis is joined by Travis Smith, Founder and CEO of Tribevest, a platform that gives family, friends and like-minded people the ability to invest as a group. Tribevest is changing the game for beginners and the most-experienced investors, allowing them to get into more deals, leverage knowledge and “level up” together – as a tribe.

In this episode, you will learn:

The benefits to building wealth with a tribe, versus as an individual.
The path to investing with Tribevest, from concept, to launch, to initial investment, to exit.
The unique benefits to investing using the Tribevest platform.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Tribevest.com | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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The housing market has had an outstanding 2021 year. From record low-interest rates, to the strongest yearly growth in single-family home prices and rentals, and the highest number of home sales in 15 years. It’s made many people wonder, how will 2022 compare?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Kim Curtis and Nancy Chu, co-hosts of the LOL Girls Podcast. Kimberly Curtis is the Business Development Director for the Kechian Team at LoanDepot, and Nancy Chu is the owner of Nancy Chu Homes at Keller Williams New Jersey Metro Group. Both women bring expert knowledge of the real estate market to the table, as Marc Bautis asks them everything about interest rate hikes, inventory concerns, and more. If you’re considering buying, selling or just want to know what’s fact and what’s fiction, this episode is for you.

In this episode, you will learn:

The many variables that led to the real estate inventory issues in the U.S.
The truth about interest rates: How a quarterly interest rate hike would or wouldn’t affect the Northern New Jersey real estate market.
Current trends in the mortgage and real estate industries.
The mortgage process, including estimated credit approval and average closing duration.
The pros and cons of purchasing turnkey properties.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Listen to LOL Girls Podcast | Contact Kim Curtis - Email: kcurtis@loandepot.com Phone: (917) 716-5111 | Contact Nancy Chu - Email: nancy@nancychuhomes.com Phone: (917) 992-3098 Website: nancychuhomes.com | loandepot.com | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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2021 was a big year for cryptocurrency. Bitcoin hit multiple new all-time high prices over the past year (followed by big drops) and more institutional buy-in from major companies. Ethereum, the second-biggest cryptocurrency, also reached its own new all-time high late last year. All the while, U.S. government officials, entrepreneurs, celebrities and everyday investors have expressed a skyrocketing interest in cryptocurrency and digital assets. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Mark Basa, Global Brand and Business Manager at Hokk Finance. An early crypto-evangelist, Basa’s decade of experience and expertise established him as a thought leader in creating and building crypto brands. Together, they talk all things cryptocurrency and digital assets – from NFTs, to meme tokens, and everything in between.

In this episode, you will learn:

The meaning and application of decentralized finance, including advantages and risks.
The difference between cryptocurrency and digital assets, such as NFTs.
Future predictions for cryptocurrency and digital assets, including possible government intervention and tax regulation.
How – and why – businesses and brands are creating cryptocurrency coins/tokens.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Hokk Finance | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Myra Oliver went from an in-debt hairstylist, giving $5 haircuts, to owning 30+ rental real estate properties and achieving financial freedom by age 33. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis is joined by Oliver, a real estate broker/investor, entrepreneur and financial freedom expert. As she explains her journey to early retirement – and the career changes that came along the way – Oliver shares her tips for anyone listening whose goal is to stop working and live on passive income.

In this episode, you will learn:

The importance of making sacrifices in order to achieve financial freedom.
The difference between an abundance and scarcity mindset.
How to avoid unnecessary debt.
How to differentiate between wants and needs.
Other inspiration for those who seek to live financially free lives.
And more!

The Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America's Wealthy

Your Money or Your Life: Transforming Your Relationship with Money and Achieving Financial MORE

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You don’t need to have any formal education to become an entrepreneur, but it’s imperative to gather knowledge and learn from other experts in the business of business to ensure future success. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Brad Sugars, a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and the #1 business coach in the world. Over the course of his 30-year career as an entrepreneur, Brad has become the CEO of 9+ companies and is the owner of the multi-million dollar franchise ActionCOACH®. Together, they discuss a variety of business tips and strategies for entrepreneurs big and small.

In this episode, you will learn:

The advantages to creating repeat business.
How business owners can create functional management and employee structure so they don’t have to work in the day-to-day of their business.
The pros and cons of scaling your business using franchising.
How and when to teach children about entrepreneurship.
And more!

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Investing in wine has traditionally been something limited to those with privilege and access, like wine experts or the ultra-wealthy. But it’s a super compelling investment, as wine has outperformed the S&P for the past 30 years, including during downturns. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Anthony Zhang, CEO and Co-Founder of Vinovest, a platform for investing in a managed portfolio of fine wines. The technology Vinovest provides creates a smarter way for all people to access wine investing opportunities, enabling greater participation and wealth creation.

In this episode, you will learn:

The barriers traditional wine investing has created for incoming investors.
The unique advantages of investing in wine.
How the Vinovest platform works, including how wines are priced and how an investor’s portfolio on the platform is calculated based on their risk tolerance.
The effects of inflation and climate change on the initial cost of wine, and the cost of fine wine.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Vinovest | Contact Anthony: anthony@vinovest.co | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Are you thinking about investing in a fix-and-flip, but not sure where to start? The process can be nerve-wracking, because there’s a lot of risk – and work – involved. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Viktor Jiracek, a full-time fix-and-flip real estate investor and mentor out of Gainesville, Florida. Together, the two address flipping basics: From how to find a deal to how to make an offer, and how to estimate repair costs to how to transition into this business full-time.

In this episode, you will learn:

What it means to fix-and-flip.
How to transition into full-time real estate investing.
A formula for determining if a fix-or-flip opportunity will be profitable.
Where to find fix-and-flip deals, and how to approach negotiating.
How to fund (or invest in) fix-and-flips.
And more!

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Home equity accounts for approximately 61.7% of a United States households’ wealth. Yet, for so long, homeowners were unable to leverage their home equity without taking on debt, and the added burden of monthly payments and interest. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis is joined by Matthew Sullivan, the CEO and Founder of QuantmRE, a company that solves a real problem for homeowners through home equity agreements. Sullivan has a proven track record in real estate innovation through his experiences as Co-Founder of the Secured Real Estate Income Strategies Fund, and as President and Founder of Crowdventure.com, a real estate crowdfunding company.

In this episode, you will learn:

What a home equity agreement is, and how it differs from a reverse mortgage or a home equity line of credit.
How to determine if you’re a good candidate for a home equity agreement, depending on variables QuantmRE uses.
Current and future opportunities to invest in home equity agreements.
Advancements and expected growth in this industry.
And more!

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Sustainability is a trending term. Whether it’s human, social, economic or environmental, sustainability refers to the capacity to endure in a relatively ongoing way. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Myles Wakeham, a multi-millionaire who lives a 100% free and unconstrained life. Myles practices financial sustainability, growing his wealth through Bitcoin and rental real estate investing, without working a 9-5. Together, Marc and Myles discuss the concept of financial sustainability and how those as young as 18-year-old can begin creating an unconstrained life for themselves.

In this episode, you will learn:

What financial sustainability is, and how to adopt it from an early age.
The importance of adopting a debt-free lifestyle.
How Wakeham used rental real estate to propel his financially sustainable lifestyle.
Key differences between financial sustainability and FIRE (financially independent, retire early).
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Beunconstrained.com | The Unconstrained Podcast | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the third book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee Vance. A biography telling the story of Elon Musk’s life and his two businesses, this story paints the portrait of a complex man who has sparked new levels of innovation — overcoming hardship, earning billions and making plenty of enemies along the way.

In this episode, we discuss:

What our team liked most about the book.
What our team learned from and took away from the book.
How our team is/isn’t inspired by Elon Musk’s life.
And more!

This is the third episode in the Bautis Financial Book Club series. Listen to the other episodes:

Episode 76 - Bautis Financial Book Club: The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek
Episode 75 – Bautis Financial Book Club: Atomic Habits by James Clear

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Arguments about money disturb many marriages. When you consider that about one third of adults with partners report money as a big source of conflict in relationships, it's no surprise that financial problems are a leading cause of divorce. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Chris Felton, a financial services entrepreneur, speaker, trainer and the co-author of the best-selling book Couples Money: What Every Couple Should Know about Money and Relationships. Chris candidly shares his very personal story of how his wife Marlow went from the brink of divorce, and struggling financially to financial freedom and harmony.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to take accountability for financial hardships in your relationship.
How couples can create harmonious goals and attack them together.
How couples can track financial progress.
Strategies to improve a couple’s finances.
And more!

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Infinite banking is a strategy created by Nelson Nash, life insurance agent for 35 years and author of Becoming Your Own Banker. The premise is to use a whole life insurance policy to lend money to yourself, using the cash value of the policy as collateral. It’s an intriguing approach, especially for those who have been frustrated with the loan process.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by John Williams for a conversation with Anthony Faso and Cameron Christiansen, founders of Infinite Wealth Consultants and the hosts of Infinite Wealth Podcast. Together, they discuss the concept of infinite banking.

In this episode, you will learn:

What infinite banking is.
How to employ the concept of infinite banking into your own finances.
How to maximize the use of a life insurance policy to create infinite wealth.
And more!

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Renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar and hydroelectric, currently supply about a quarter of the electricity generated by the power sector. The industry has been growing fast, increasing its electricity generating capacity at about 8% annually over the last decade. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Mike Silvestrini, co-founder and managing partner of Energea, a renewable project developer and retail investment platform that's focused on emerging and frontier markets. Tune in to discover how you can earn cash while offsetting your footprint.

In this episode, you will learn:

The benefits of renewable energy, specifically solar energy.
How renewable energy projects work.
How to invest and participate in renewable energy.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Energea.com | mike@energea.com | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Almost all U.S. consumers are value-conscious shoppers who regularly visit discount retailers to find a bargain, according to the 2018 Consumer View report released by the National Retail Federation. As we enter the holiday shopping season, which is expected to be impacted by supply chain disruptions, consumers are focused on shopping early and saving big. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Jim Markus, an editor at Brad’s Deals, where Markus evaluates and negotiates deals for bargain hunters, and host of Frugal Living Podcast, a podcast for smart shoppers and savers.

In this episode, you will learn:

What it means to be frugal.
Where to look for the best online deals, including how to find deals during the holiday season.
How to tell the difference between a real product and a scam, including how to identify a legitimate website.
Other common online shopping mistakes and how to combat them.
About Brad’s Deals, the one-stop shop for the best online deals.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Brad's Deals | Frugal Living Podcast | Connect with Jim Markus on LinkedIn | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Do you have an entrepreneurial itch waiting to be scratched? If so, you’ll want to tune into this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, where host Marc Bautis asks all sorts of franchising questions to Jon Ostenson, a consultant investor, author and international speaker specializing in the area of non-food franchising. While it’s risky starting any business venture, there is undeniable growth happening in the franchising industry. Let’s uncover why.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to begin a franchise, including how to determine the correct franchise for you.
The benefits of franchising versus building a business from the ground up.
Various funding options for franchisees.
Trends in franchising.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | franbridgeconsulting.com | jon@franbridgeconsulting.com| Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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As a result of the financial crisis in 2008, Rod Khleif lost $50 million — but he refused to let his story end there. It takes drive to recover from a loss so large, but Khleif did it, and here’s here to share how. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Rod Khleif, one of the country's top business real estate and peak performance luminaries. Khleif is the host of Lifetime Cash Flow Through Real Estate Investing Podcast and author of How To Create Lifetime Cash Flow Through Multifamily Properties: The New Rules of Real Estate Investing.

In this episode, you will learn:

Rod Khleif’s personal and professional background, including how he and his business were affected by the financial crisis of 2008.
The key elements of creating a positive mindset.
How to use “I am” statements to define identity and propel success.
How to use visualization to achieve your purpose in life.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Rodkhleif.com | Multifamily Bootcamp (Live in Orlando) | Lifetime Cash Flow Through Real Estate Investing Podcast | How To Create Lifetime Cash Flow Through Multifamily Properties: The New Rules of Real Estate Investing | The Five Regrets of Dying | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

How to Create Lifetime CashFlow Through Multifamily Properties: The New Rules of Real Estate Investing

The Top Five Regrets of the Dying: A Life Transformed by the Dearly Departing

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It’s a common misconception that uranium is a rare element. It's actually 500 times more common than gold, and there are traces of uranium in granite (4 parts per million), which makes up 60% of the Earth's crust. In other words, uranium is all around us. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Scott Melbye, CEO of Uranium Royalty Corp., the only pre-play uranium royalty and streaming company in the uranium industry, and Executive Vice President of Uranium Energy Corp, a uranium mining and exploration company. With 36 years of experience in the nuclear energy industry, Melbye has a deep understanding of the supply and demand of uranium fuel.

In this episode, you will learn:

How uranium is used to power commercial nuclear reactors.
The important role uranium plays in medical, industrial and defense purposes in the United States and around the world.
The possible risks and rewards to investing in uranium.
Why supply isn’t meeting the demand/need for uranium in the United States.
What it means to invest in uranium royalties.
And more!

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The Profit First formula flips the script on how business owners typically think about accounting: putting profit first and encouraging them to deduct profit from each sale, using the remaining amount for expenses. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Aimee Laliberte, owner of My Virtual CFO and a mindset expert. 25 years ago, Laiberte went from a bankrupt young adult into a hardworking mother and highly profitable advisor for more than 75 six to seven-figure business owners. Join them for a discussion about Profit first, which Laliberte is certified in.

In this episode, you will learn:

Benefits of the profit first system.
How to implement the profit first system.
What other systems to have in place for financial success.
How to determine if you should hire a bookkeeper or virtual CFO.
How to challenge limiting beliefs.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | myvirtualcfo.co | Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating Monster to a Money-Making Machine | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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According to a March 2021 survey conducted by the American Psychological Foundation, 72% of Americans report feeling stressed about money at least once per month. That stress, if not managed correctly, can trickle down to every aspect of a person’s life. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis is joined by Kelly Moylan, a licensed psychotherapist and practicing clinician with over 20 years of experience in a number of mental health and medical settings. Together, the two discuss how to relieve and cope with financial stress.

In this episode, you will learn:

When to seek help for financial stress.
What to expect from a typical engagement with a therapist.
Common financial stressors and suggestions for relief.
How to reframe your mindset from believing that money equals happiness.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Kellymoylan.com | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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While raw land investing may not sound glamorous, it’s real estate investing with no tenants, no termites and no toilets. In fact:

Land has fewer restrictions and codes than houses or buildings.
No banks are involved, so reckless lending can’t cause a false value bubble.
And, no one can steal it!

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Mark Podolsky aka “The Land Geek.” Podolsky has been buying and selling raw land full time since 2001, completing over 5,500 land deals. He’s the author of Dirt Rich: How One Ambitiously Lazy Geek Created Passive Income in Real Estate Without Renters, Renovations, and Rehabs and hosts The Art of Passive Income Podcast. Listen in to discover how you can build a passive income model in raw land investing.

In this episode, you will learn:

About the “the disease of solo economic dependency,” as Podolsky coins it. Or, the issue employees who physically need to work to produce money face.
How to take the leap into diversifying your income, creating passive income or beginning a side hustle.
The benefits to investing in raw land in the United States, including where to look for acquisition and tips to consider.
Frontier Equity Properties’ business model.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Thelandgeek.com | Dirt Rich | The Art of Passive Income Podcast | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

Dirt Rich: How One Ambitiously Lazy Geek Created Passive Income in Real Estate Without Renters, Renovations, and Rehabs

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Mortgage note investing is rarely discussed, but it’s one of the best real estate investing opportunities available. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Martin Saenz, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of BeQuest Funds, an alternative investment fund, and Founder of Note Investing Made Easier (NIME). Bequest Funds was created with the dual purpose of helping investors grow their wealth and helping mortgage borrowers stay in their homes. Saenz, a successful entrepreneur and real estate investor for over 15 years, shares his strategy and experience in this episode, all while motivating you to create a passive income with note investing.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why investors should consider alternative investments.
What exactly real estate note investing is.
How real estate note investing can create a passive income or can be used as a long-term investment for retirement.
The pros and cons of real estate note investing.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | BeQuest Funds | BeQuest Funds LinkedIn Page | Note Investing Made Easier | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the second book assignment in their monthly Book Club, The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek. The book seeks to answer the question: How do you win a game that has no end? These “infinite games” include business, politics and life itself. The book challenges the ways that we look at the responsibility of business and life.

In this episode, we discuss:

Infinite games versus finite games.
The five essential practices of an infinite mindset.
The difference between worthy rivals and competitors.
The role of a just cause, or “why.”
The role of a leader.
And more!

This is the second episode in the Bautis Financial Book Club series. Listen to the first episode, where we discuss Atomic Habits by James Clear, here.

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | The Infinite Game | Start With Why | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the first book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Atomic Habits: Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results by James Clear. Packed with evidence-based self-improvement strategies, the book teaches readers how to make small changes that can transform their habits and deliver remarkable results.

In this episode, we discuss:

What our team liked most about the book.
What our team learned from and took away from the book.
How our team is utilizing the information in their daily life.
What habit strategies worked (and what didn’t) for our team.
And more!

This is the first episode in the Bautis Financial book club series. We will share future book club episodes here once they are released.

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Atomic Habits: Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results | The Power of Habit | The Infinite Game | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Every year, the American Psychological Association surveys people across the United States about stress: its sources; its intensity; and how people are responding to stressors. The 2020 survey found that nearly 2 in 3 adults (64%) said that money is a significant source of stress in their life, and this statistic wasn’t surprising -- “Regardless of the economic climate,” APA CEO Norman B. Anderson, PhD said, “money and finances have remained a top stressor since our survey began in 2007.”

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis is joined by Bob Wheeler, a financial expert, motivator, and author of The Money Nerve: Navigating the Emotions of Money. Tune in to learn how to uncover and understand your financial habits, limiting beliefs and emotional blocks around your finances to create a healthy relationship with money.

In this episode, you will learn:

How financial habits, behaviors and emotions come to fruition.
How to have conversations about money with your children and spouse.
How to create and enforce good financial habits, like saving and paying off debt.
Practical tools for improving money management.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Themoneynerve.com | The Money Nerve: Navigating the Emotions of Money | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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The #1 mistake entrepreneurs make is building a business that relies too heavily on them. So, when the time comes to sell, prospective buyers aren’t confident in the company’s future — whether it’s profitable or not. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis is joined by John Warrilow, the founder of The Value Builder System™, a practice management software for business advisors. His best-selling book Built to Sell: Creating a Business That Can Thrive Without You was recognized by both Fortune and Inc. as one of the best business books of 2011. Prior to founding The Value Builder System™, he started and exited four companies, including one acquired by a public company.

In this episode, you will learn:

The basics of The Value Builder System™
How to identify your TVR (teachable, valuable, repeatable) to better scale your business.
Common mistakes entrepreneurs make and how to avoid them.
Warrilow’s take on the common question; When is the right time to sell?
What it means to reach the freedom point, and how you can determine if now is the time to tell your business.
And more!

This is the second installment of a two-part series for business owners. Listen to the first episode, “Maximizing the Value of Your Business Before Selling” with Michelle Seiler Tucker.

Built to Sell: Creating a Business That Can Thrive Without You

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If you’re hoping to sell your business, we have some bad news: According to Steve Forbes, 8 out of 10 businesses will never sell. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Michelle Seiler Tucker, an expert in the business of selling businesses. Seiler Tucker is a business broker with over 20 years of experience and over a thousand businesses bought and sold. She is also a two-time #1 best-selling author, speaker, TV and radio host, and the co-author of the book Exit Rich: The 6 P Method to Sell Your Business For Huge Profit. Tune into to learn how you can fix and grow your business for a better outcome when selling.

In this episode, you will learn:

The best time to sell a business.
The five types of business buyers.
The importance of a business valuation.
How your industry plays a role in selling your business.
How to find buyers for your business.
And more!

This is the first installment of a two-part series for business owners. Listen to the second part, "How a Business Owner Can Calculate Their Freedom Point."

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Did you know that only 9% of U.S. adults eat enough vegetables daily, and only 12% eat enough fruit? This data, according to the CDC, is shocking. But it’s why host Marc Bautis and John Williams brought Caryn O’Sullivan, a Clinical Nutrition expert and Integrative Clinical Health Coach, onto the show. O’Sullivan has spent the last 15 years helping people take charge of their health by digging deep to uncover the root of a variety of diagnoses and create balance through diet and lifestyle. Tune in as she reveals some of her top tips in this episode of The Agent of Wealth podcast.

In this episode, you will learn:

A brief overview of food and nutrition in the modern-day United States.
What integrative and functional nutrition is.
How to track progress and the benefit of keeping a food diary.
How to identify inflammation and other key indicators of disease.
And more!

This is the final installment in a six-part Agent of Wealth series, called “Health is Wealth.” Listen to the other episodes:

How to Start Exercising and Stay Motivated
How to Overcome Your Sugar Addiction
How Collaborative Problem-Solving Can Lead to Better Parenting
Tools for Solving Common Sleep Issues
How to Build Resilience

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Appetites for Life | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Resilient, [adjective]: capable of withstanding shock without permanent deformation or rupture; tending to recover from or adjust easily to misfortune or change.

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth podcast, Marc Bautis and John Williams speak with Dr. Eva Selhub — an internationally recognized expert, physician, speaker, scientist, executive leadership and performance coach and consultant in the field of corporate wellness and resilience. Selhub helps people improve their life through the creation of a culture of resilience, and in this episode she provides a baseline for how you can do just that.

In this episode, you will learn:

What being resilient really means.
What stress is, in the most basic form (and why we need it!).
The connection between resilience and stress.
How to put an end to limiting beliefs.
The difference between stress and a threat.
And more!

This is the fifth installment in a six-part Agent of Wealth series, called “Health is Wealth.” Listen to the other episodes:

How to Start Exercising and Stay Motivated
How to Overcome Your Sugar Addiction
How Collaborative Problem-Solving Can Lead to Better Parenting
Tools for Solving Common Sleep Issues
How to Eat for Energy

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Drselhub.com | Drselhubcorporate.com | Resilience for Dummies | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Adults between the ages of 18-64 need seven to nine hours of sleep per night. However, 35.2% of all adults in the U.S. report sleeping on average for less than seven hours per night. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth podcast, Marc Bautis speaks with Dr. Michael Gradisar, a sleep scientist, sleep practitioner, sleep teacher and leader of WINK Sleep, a group of sleep scientists and therapists who have treated 1000’s of people and conducted over 100 studies about sleep. The two of them discuss the integral role sleep plays in health.

In this episode, you will learn:

National and worldwide trends related to sleeping.
How to measure changes in sleep.
Common causes of sleep issues.
How exercise before bed, CBD, melatonin and blue light do and don’t affect sleep — which may surprise you!
And so much more!

This is the fourth installment in a six-part Agent of Wealth series, called “Health is Wealth.” Listen to the other episodes:

How to Start Exercising and Stay Motivated
How to Overcome Your Sugar Addiction
How Collaborative Problem-Solving Can Lead to Better Parenting
How to Build Resilience
How to Eat for Energy

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | WINK Sleep | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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69% of parents say that if they knew more positive parenting strategies, they would use them. To those parents, you’re in the right place. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth podcast, Marc Bautis speaks with Maria Sanders, a licensed social worker and certified parent coach who specializes in the areas of child development, conscious parenting and social/emotional development to support parents in creating a sense of calm, confidence and connection within themselves and their families. Using the expertise she’s gathered from her Collaborative Problem Solving® Certification and over 20 years of hands-on experience, Sanders offers solutions for some of the most frequent challenges that arise for parents.

In this episode, you will learn:

How parents can get clear on their boundaries and family values.
How to create realistic expectations for your child’s growth and development.
Skills and solutions for long-term parenting success.
What collaborative problem-solving is and the ideal age to begin this approach.
How to balance collaborative problem-solving with parental authority.
How parents can tackle social media and screen time issues with their children.
And more!

This is the third installment in a six-part Agent of Wealth series, called “Health is Wealth.” Listen to the other episodes:

How to Start Exercising and Stay Motivated
How to Overcome Your Sugar Addiction
Tools for Solving Common Sleep Issues
How to Build Resilience
How to Eat for Energy

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Maria Sanders Parent Coach Website | Maria Sanders Parent Coach Facebook Page | Maria Sander’s Instagram Page | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Did you know that approximately 75% of Americans eat excess amounts of sugar, many of whom could be classified as having a sugar addiction? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth podcast, Marc Bautis and John Williams invite Dr. Vera Tarman on the show. Tarman is a clinical physician, author, speaker and food addiction expert who believes that an addiction to sugar can be as treacherous as an addition to alcohol, tobacco and even cocaine. Tarman’s expertise includes hands-on experience as a recovering food addict who has maintained a 100-pound weight loss for more than 12 years.

In this episode, you will learn:

What classifies a sugar addiction?
How genetics, previous additions and environment may play a role in food addiction.
How and why sugar is considered a gateway drug.
How sugar plays a role in the leading causes of death worldwide.
A discussion of the difference between passion and addiction.
And more!

This is the second installment in a six-part Agent of Wealth series, called “Health is Wealth.” Listen to the other episodes:

How to Start Exercising and Stay Motivated
How Collaborative Problem-Solving Can Lead to Better Parenting
Tools for Solving Common Sleep Issues
How to Build Resilience
How to Eat for Energy

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Food Junkies: Recovery from Food Addiction (2019) | Addictions Unplugged – Dr. Vera Tarman’s Website | Sugar-Free for Life Support Group | Food Junkies: Recovery from Food Addiction (Podcast) | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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You can’t enjoy wealth if you’re not in good health, right? Though sometimes overstated, the saying “health is wealth” — a variation of American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson’s writings — rings true for a variety of reasons. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth podcast, Marc Bautis invites John Williams, Wealth Advisor at Bautis Financial, on to the show to discuss health in the form of movement. They discuss everything from the benefits of exercise, to getting (and staying) motivated, to the mechanics of beginning a training program — especially as it relates to running a race. Throughout the conversation, Bautis and Williams lean on their personal experiences as collegiate athletes.

In this episode you will learn:

How health affects cost of living, especially as you age.
Trends in health and fitness in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
How to start a fitness program, specifically running, including what to avoid.
How to create (and crush!) realistic fitness goals.
Intrinsic motivation and accountability.
And more!

This is the first installment of a six-part Agent of Wealth series, called “Health is Wealth.” Listen to the other episodes:

How to Overcome Your Sugar Addiction
How Collaborative Problem-Solving Can Lead to Better Parenting
Tools for Solving Common Sleep Issues
How to Build Resilience
How to Eat for Energy

Resources:

Episode Transcript & Blog | Fidelity Health Expense Calculator | Clear a Path Podcast, hosted by John Williams | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Airbnb, DoorDash and Snowflake made the top ten list of 2020’s biggest IPOs. It was a record-breaking year for companies going public, even with the uncertainty brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, and those who invested in the right place at the right time. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis invites John Williams, Wealth Advisor at Bautis Financial, on the show to discuss if initial public offerings (IPOs) are good investments.

In this episode, you will learn:

What is an initial public offering (IPO)?
How to invest in an IPO.
The pros and cons of investing in IPOs.
Advice for what to do when your company IPOs.
Indicators of a successful and unsuccessful IPO.
How to determine the valuation of a company, including a discussion about accuracy.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Charitable giving is trending: According to the Blackbaud Institute, overall charitable giving in the United States increased by 2.0% in 2020. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis invites Kris Putnam-Walkerly, a philanthropic advisor, to share her knowledge and experience on charitable giving. She discusses how to transform your giving to catapult your impact.

In this episode, you will learn:

Reasons for the growth of charitable giving in 2020.
How to create positive change through charitable giving.
The differences between various giving vehicles, including donor advised funds and private foundations.
Balancing charitable interests with action for the most effective results.
Expectations for the future of charitable giving.

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000 | Kris Putnam-Walkerly: kris@putnam-consulting.com | Delusional Altruism: Why Philanthropists Fail To Achieve Change and What They Can Do To Transform Giving

Delusional Altruism: Why Philanthropists Fail To Achieve Change and What They Can Do To Transform Giving

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis invites Ellen Rogin to share her knowledge and experience on the power of picturing your prosperity. She discusses the steps to take in order to turn a vision into reality and the benefits of visualization and meditation. Ellen also shares stories and examples with Marc of people who have utilized visual representation to create financial goals.

In this episode, you will learn:

Everyone has a unique vision and why putting a prosperity picture together can help you focus on what’s important to you.
How to take your vision, put it into action and execute on it.
How Marc Bautis went from being a skeptic of visualization, to understanding how powerful it can be.
The benefits of meditation and how it can help you make better financial decisions and ensure that your priorities align with your values.
And more!

Tune in now to discover how tapping into your creative mind can help you build towards a secure financial future!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000 | Ellen Rogin: Ellen@Ellenrogin.com | My Prosperity Gift | Picture Your Prosperity: Smart Money Moves to Turn Your Vision into Reality

Picture Your Prosperity: Smart Money Moves to Turn Your Vision into Reality

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Should I time the market? Is Bitcoin the next big thing? Am I missing out if I don’t purchase Tesla? Will Biden’s administration impact my taxes? What does the future of the economy look like? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis does a 2020 recap and looks ahead to help prepare you for taxes, investments, and your financial plan. Marc touches on hot topics and also shares his best tips on how to handle your financial future.

In this episode, you will learn about:

The 2020 election and a market review.
2021 economic predictions and key risks.
Investing in popular trends such as Bitcoin, IPOs and Tesla.
Potential tax changes and their impact to your investments and financial plan.
Planning and investment ideas for 2021 and beyond based on the new Biden administration.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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What should you do if you get a letter or notice from the IRS? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis meets with Allan Rolnick to discuss the ins and outs of an IRS tax notice. Allan explains the various causes that lead to a letter showing up at your door, and the steps you should take to resolve the problem. Allan also shares his best tips on how to be compliant with the IRS to limit any issues. Tune in to learn strategies to protect yourself from the IRS!

In this episode, you will learn:

The first step to approaching a letter from the IRS.
The most common reasons for receiving a notice from the IRS.
What assets the IRS is allowed to take from you.
How the IRS devises a payment plan.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000 | Allan Rolnick: (718) 841-7317 | The Tax Resolution Ninja Show

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Did you know that nearly 60% of Americans lack a will or have done any estate planning?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis talks with Anthony Park about the importance of estate planning. They discuss why naming an executor is significant for not just a person’s assets but also their personal well being. Anthony shares what the average estate process may look like when a person dies and how an executor’s role comes into play.

In this episode, you will learn:

What happens to your estate when you die.
Tips on who to name as the Executor of your estate and why naming your child may not be the best decision.
Why estate planning for “Solo Agers” is critical.
What happens during probate if you own property in multiple states.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000 | Anthony S. Park | Anthony’s Books on Amazon

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis has a conversation with Abel Pacheco about investing in commercial real estate. Abel discusses what sparked his interest in commercial real estate and how he took the leap to move from IT tech sales to becoming a full-time real estate investor. Abel speaks on some of the challenges that may come with the profession and how he has found success in commercial real estate.

In this episode, you will learn:

Where to start your real estate investing journey, with different market and asset classes.
The difference between investing actively versus passively.
The three things to consider when evaluating real estate investment opportunities.
Tips for raising capital and building trust with investors.
COVID-19’s impact to the opportunity and investor side of commercial real estate.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | 5tcre.com | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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How do you approach and understand people with opposing views? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Karen Tibbals and Marc Bautis discuss the current, strong political divide that the United States is facing, and what’s underneath our moral fundamental belief systems. Karen dives into tactics that will help you have difficult conversations and repair relationships, rather than preaching your beliefs.

In this episode, you will learn:

How social and political beliefs became aligned.
The 5 Moral Foundations: belonging in a community, respect for authority, sacredness, care for others, and fairness and how they apply to understanding each other.
Why preaching your beliefs to someone will actually have the reverse effect.
Three techniques proven to change people’s minds.
How to repair relationships with people who you’ve disagreed with.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | persuadedontpreach.com | Persuade Don’t Preach: Restoring Civility Across the Political Divide | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Improving your credit can be a daunting, yet fulfilling process. There are many things that can be done to make improvements but the barrage of information makes it hard for credit seekers to understand what truly will be the best moves for their unique situation.

In this episode, Victoria Finlay and John Williams sit down with Nikole Vialet, a credit repair specialist, and discuss what you could expect when working with her or other specialists like her, as well as some of the quick and easy strategies everyone can implement on their own to start improving their credit almost immediately.

In this episode, you will learn:

The most important things you can do to improve your credit score.
The many different ways a credit repair specialist can help their clients.
Why is it so important to achieve and maintain strong credit.
All of the different things that positively and negatively affect your credit.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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2020 has certainly been a whirlwind of a year… between a national pandemic, a possible vaccine, and the beginning of school, this fall brings a presidential election.

On today’s show, Marc and John discuss the different possible outcomes of the election and how each one can affect your portfolio.

In this episode, you will learn:

What consequences do taxes face based on the outcome of the election?
Will Social Security be altered?
Where does the election fit in when considering risk?
What you should do with your investment strategy
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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If you haven’t thought about your long-term care plan, you’re in the majority. Several individuals avoid planning for extended care because it can be a difficult and daunting task. However, whether it be for you or a loved one, organizing steps for long-term care is critical to address in any financial plan. On today’s episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis and John Williams talk to Extended Care Benefits Advisor Raymond Lavine about how to approach the oftentimes overlooked aspect of financial planning.

In this episode, you will learn:

Where to begin when putting together a caregiving plan.
The right time to begin having long-term care conversations.
The devastation that not having a long term care plan can cause to your assets.
How to utilize a hybrid benefit plan to ensure your assets are passed on to your beneficiary.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000 | www.lavineltcins.com | Raymond Lavine: (253) 275-6091

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The stock and real estate market are at highs, but millions of people are still unemployed and out of work.. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by John Williams, Wealth Advisor at Bautis Financial. The two talk about how to financially plan after recently losing a job.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to ensure a job loss doesn't wreck your financial plan.
Budgeting tips to look for ways of reducing your expenses.
Six options of what to do with your retirement plan when you leave your job.
Where and when to start when looking for a new job.
And more!

Tune in now to learn about what to do after a loss of a job during these unpredictable times!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000 | Retirement Seminar | Schedule a Call

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When it comes to money, we always think about the numbers. However, the decisions that we make financially stems from our emotions. In fact, we make all of our decisions emotionally first. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Anne Beaulieu, the founder of Femme Sauvage, a regular Forbes contributor and the author of 29 books in the The Emotionally Intelligent Way© series. Together, they talk about how to make better money decisions using emotion.

In this episode you will learn:

How to begin learning your internal feelings about money.
How to identify your money triggers.
How to heal the emotional weight from triggers.
Tips for couples trying to make better money decisions.
How to attract abundance.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000 | Femme Sauvage | The Emotionally Intelligent Way© Series | Femme Sauvage Blog

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What better way to learn about retirement than from someone who meticulously prepared for it? On this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis talks with Fritz Gilbert, an aluminum industry professional who retired with his wife at age 55. Gilbert has chronicled his retirement every week for the past five years in his blog called The Retirement Manifesto, and he’s the author of Keys to a Successful Retirement: Staying Happy, Active, and Productive in Your Retired Years.

In this episode, you will learn:

What retirement looks like (from a first-person perspective).
How to start planning for your retirement.
What to expect in your retirement.
How to account for “doomsday scenarios” while planning for retirement.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | The Retirement Manifesto | Keys to a Successful Retirement: Staying Happy, Active, and Productive in Your Retired Years | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

Keys to a Successful Retirement: Staying Happy, Active, and Productive in Your Retired Years

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The sizes small, medium, and large only fit 15% of men properly in terms of clothing. Stantt is a business that has created over 99 different shirt sizes to actually fit to ensure confidence and comfort. On this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis talks to Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Stantt. Marc and Matt talk about how Matt transitioned from corporate America to changing the shirt business by creating his own company.

In this episode, you will learn:

How Matt transitioned from his corporate job to successfully launching Stantt
Tips on how to build your brand and overcome some of the biggest challenges a new business goes through
Why Matt looked to bring on investors from the beginning and how they’ve helped shape the business
Online vs. in-person store predictions for after the Coronavirus
And more!

Tune in now to find out the ins and outs of starting your own business!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | stantt.com | matt@stantt.com | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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People have coaches all throughout their childhoods: sports teams, Boy/Girl Scouts, and several other organizations and clubs. So, why not hire one for your professional life? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Katie Stricker, President and Co-Founder of Sayge. Together, they discuss how coaching can help your business, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In this episode, you will learn:

The key benefits of coaching.
How to treat your career as an asset.
Which industries benefits the most from coaching.
Book recommendations to transform your mindset.
And more!

This is the third part of a multi-part series exploring careers and employment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch the other parts:

Part 1: How to Execute A Job Search During the COVID Pandemic With Geoffrey Goldman
Part 2: Tips for Hiring During The COVID-19 Pandemic With Jen Selverian

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | hellosayge.com| katiestricker.com | katie@hellosayge.com | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

Books Mentioned: Getting to Yes: Negotiation Agreement Without Giving In | Taking the Stage: How Women Can Speak Up, Stand Out, and Succeed | Radical Candour | The Growth Mindset: A Guide to Professional and Personal Growth (The Art of Growth) (Volume 1) | Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones

Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In

The Growth Mindset: A Guide to Professional and Personal Growth (The Art of Growth)

Taking the Stage: How Women Can Speak Up, Stand Out, and Succeed

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As soon as your child loses their first tooth, they are thinking about money — and how to spend it. That said, it’s necessary to introduce financial literacy at an early age, which helps lay the groundwork for good financial habits into adulthood. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Shara Nadler, founder and CEO of iPiggiBank, a company that is focused on improving financial literacy in children. Together, they discuss how to teach your child good money habits, and the variety of classes and education iPiggiBank provides.

In this episode, you will learn:

What age and money topics are appropriate for children.
The different foundations of financial literacy to teach.
Where children gain the majority of their financial influence.
Board game and book recommendations to make financial literacy learning fun.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | info@ipiggibank.com | Rock, Brock and the Savings Shock | A Penny for Piggy: The Tale of Save, Spend and Share | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

A Penny for Piggy: The Tale of Save, Spend, Share

Rock, Brock, and the Savings Shock (AV2 Fiction Readalong)

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Searching for a new job with the recent record-high unemployment rate can be challenging, but it is a difficult time for employers as well. It has become necessary to attract and hire candidates virtually during these unprecedented times.

In today's episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis welcomes guest Jen Selverian to the show. Selverian is the founder and owner of Nadexa Group, an executive search firm that partners with leading advertising and digital marketing agencies and the host of the Small Business Speaks podcast. Together, they discuss how best to hire someone during the Coronavirus pandemic.

In this episode, you will learn:

How and when to decide if hiring someone right now is right for you.
What kind of salary to offer, along with the tools to research.
How to start attracting candidates.
How to structure an interview team.
Tips on the hiring process in a virtual environment.
And more!

Tune in now to learn how to efficiently and successfully hire during these crazy times!

This is Part 2 of a multi-part series exploring careers and employment during the Coronavirus. In Part 1, we looked at the job market through a candidate’s perspective. Listen to Episode 47.

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Unemployment has reached a record high because of the Coronavirus. In just one and a half months, these numbers soared from 3.5% to over 16%. With a slowly re-opening job market, hiring is hopeful for the near future. Whether you are recently entering the job market for the first time or for the first time in a while, searching for a job can be difficult during these unprecedented times.

Marc Bautis welcomes guest and professional career coach Geoffrey Goldman as they talk about the state of the job market and how to execute a job search during the Coronavirus.

In this episode, you will learn:

Where to start your job search.
How to reach out to someone on LinkedIn.
What to include in your online professional profile.
How to stand out in an online job search.
The future of work-from-home.
And more!

Tune in now to learn how to take advantage of the job market during these crazy times!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Geoffrey Goldman | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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By the time we finish today’s show 327 elderly people will be treated in an emergency room for a fall - that's one fall every 11 seconds. Now, I'm sorry to say this next piece, but three of them will die from that fall. One every 19 minutes.

Those jolting statistics come from the National Council on Aging. Many of us have dealt with elderly loved ones who have fallen. In fact, one in four elderly persons experiences a fall each year. Whenever any of these personal and health safety issues arise, inevitably they draw attention to a wide range of medical, legal, and financial issues, too.

In this episode, you will learn:

Smart planning can help ensure your loved one’s good with continued care
What a caregiving plan must address
How caregiving impacts the rest of the family
Why a team approach can produce the best caregiving plan
How to get started with a caregiving plan

Tune in now to learn about smart planning techniques to protect your loved ones!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Caregiving Resources | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Improving someone’s image deals with more than just the clothes they wear; it highlights their personal brand. Choice of dress, overall behavior, business and dining etiquette, and body language all contribute to the image they portray to others.

In this episode, Marc Bautis welcomes guest Sharon Kornstein, owner and founder of Image Design Consulting, to discuss ways you can start improving your image today. We’re all going to be back in the office soon and this conversation will assist anyone who is seeking to improve their personal image in a timely, affordable, and comfortable manner.

In this episode you will learn:

How image consulting works
How many business outfits you should have in your closet
How often there are changes in trends
What is important to look for when adding to your wardrobe
Common image mistakes that people make
What to wear to a job interview
What is a virtual closet?
And more!

Tune in now and be inspired to look and perform your best!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000 | Image Design Consulting: (973) 433-7142

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In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis discusses what the Coronavirus can teach us about hard-to-explain financial topics.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why the stock market sometimes goes up even when the news around unemployment, earnings, and COVID-19 is bad.
How a stock’s performance is based on it’s projected growth and not it’s current numbers.
The characteristics of stocks that outperform.
The difference between leading and lagging indicators and which one the stock market is.
Why Albert Einstein once called compounding interest the most powerful force in the world.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Last Friday, Congress signed a mammoth $2 trillion stimulus package into law called The Cares Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security). Many of the programs and initiatives in The Cares Act are intend to assist business owners through a variety of needs. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis shares details on the three relief programs: The Economic Impact Disaster Loan (EIDL), The Payroll Protection Program (PPP) and The Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC). Bautis also answers frequently asked questions about each program, such as:

What are the eligibility requirements?
Do I have to personally guarantee the loan or provide any collateral?
What do the loan funds have to be used for?
Is the loan forgivable?
What’s the maximum loan amount I can receive?
How do I apply?

This is the second part of a two-part series on The Cares Act. Listen to the first part, which covers the individual relief efforts outlined in the Act.

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000 | CARES Act - Small Business Checklist

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On today’s show we are going to dissect the recently passed CARES Act Stimulus package. The bill was 800+ pages long and there is definitely a lot of confusion out there on what relief is available and how to get it. I am going to break the podcast up into two parts. On this one we are going to cover the Act specifically as it applies to individuals. On the next podcast we are going to cover the provisions for small businesses.

In this episode you will learn

The Recovery Rebate Check and who is eligible and how much will you receive
Additional provisions to Unemployment compensation
Additional access to your retirement accounts through loans and distributions
Relief to student loan borrowers who have federal loans

This is the second part of a two-part series on The Cares Act. Listen to the second part, which covers how The CARES Act applies to small businesses.

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000 | bautisfinancial.com

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We’re in unprecedented times right now. We’ve seen the Dow Jones fluctuate 3,000 points in a day, circuit breakers were tripped 2 times in one week this month, and oil recently hit an 18 year low. Panicked investors looking for liquidity are selling things like long-term government bonds, gold, and municipal bonds which are all typically safe havens. And the stock market has decreased 30% from its February peak.

In this episode, you will learn:

What’s happening?
- There’s a lot of information out there, some of it good and some of it not so good.
- This markets the end to the bull market, at least for now.
- How the coronavirus is different than other pandemics we’ve seen.
How does this compare to 2008?
- This was the quickest shift to a bear market ever.
- The quick drawdown was partially due to lack of information as the underlying economy was strong coming in to the crisis.
What is the path forward?
- How best to prepare for things if they get worse.
- How best to take advantage for a recovery.

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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The markets were off to a strong start in 2020, building on the impressive returns of 2019. In late February, a complete 360 happened as panic set in and COVID spread into The United States. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis discusses why investors should focus on what they can control, including six financial strategies that could make an improvement in your life.

In this episode, you will learn:

How rebalancing your portfolio helps you stick to your investing plan, regardless of what happens in the market.
Why it may be a good time to consider: A 15 year mortgage, pre-paying your retirement plan, and harvesting tax losses.
Why it’s important to understand your risk tolerance and risk needs.
The best times to execute a Roth conversion.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Having clarity into your finances helps you on your path to financial freedom and achieving your goals. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis discusses how Bautis Financial's app provides a window into your financial world where you can see information about your financial accounts, net worth, investments, goals, spending and more.

In this episode, you will learn:

How Wealth Center can provide you with a picture on all of your finances and alleviate you from having to log on to a multitude of financial websites.
How organizing and providing structure around your finances can ease stress and anxiety.
How Wealth Center's dashboard can show if you are progressing towards achieving your goals.
Why tracking your spending is about making sure your money is going towards your priorities, not about cutting out your daily coffee.

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Get Started | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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A Chief Financial Officer (CFO) plays a critical role in every company, supporting the CEO in making optimal financial decisions that can set a business on the path to success... And making the wrong decisions can lead to financial disaster. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Bryant Tolles, the owner of KTT Global Advisors. Together, they talk about how he conducts business as a virtual CFO.

In this episode, you will learn:

How Bryant created the One Minute CFO Video series to discuss how business finances really work.
What a Virtual CFO does and how hiring one can help set your company up for success as well as save you money.
When starting a business and what entity structures you should consider as well as what state you should create your business in.
How Bryant got started with a niche in bitcoin what the future holds for the currency.

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | One Minute CFO Videos | contact@kttglobal.com | 408-391-4475 | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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When Congress passed the SECURE Act in late December — during the busiest time of year for most people — they gave Americans only two weeks to wrap their heads around the upcoming changes.

Catch up on the act’s biggest changes in this episode with Marc Bautis. Today, he discusses the SECURE Act’s most important features to uncover the possible impacts on your financial plan. Marc also shares new planning opportunities that have arisen from this act.

In this episode, you will learn:

How the age limit has changed for contributions to retirement accounts
Guidelines for withdrawing money from your IRA without being penalized
Whether you can only use 529 plan money for post-secondary education
How to inherit an IRA without tax consequences
And more!

Tune in now to learn about the SECURE Act’s biggest changes and what they might mean for you.

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Many business owners are challenged with keeping up with their books during the year. After all, most entrepreneurs started their business to drive a passion forward, not become an expert on working with Quickbooks. As tax filing deadlines are getting closer, many small business owners are in a whirlwind trying to prepare and reconcile their books for the year.

In this episode of the Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis discusses with Kelli Lewis how to best prepare your business to file your taxes. Kelli provides tips whether you just need to do some minor clean up to be ready for tax seasons or if you need to recreate your entire year from scratch.

In this episode, you will learn:

Tips for tracking your income and expenses to prepare for tax season
Why having professionally prepared financial statements can help you learn valuable insights into your business
How the Chart of Accounts is used to gauge the overall financial health of your company
The importance of separating your business and personal finances
How using a bill pay service can help you free up time to spend growing and managing your business

Resources:

Kelli Lewis : KelliWorks (201) 308-3128 | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000 |

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The vast majority of active portfolio and fund managers have trouble beating the benchmarks that their funds are compared to. Whether the challenge of picking stocks is due to broad market cycles, the growth of ETFs, or other factors, stock selection continues to have massive implications for investors’ financial health.

In this episode of the Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis discusses how a direct indexing investment strategy can help create a custom portfolio, while optimizing for tax efficiency and other factors.

In this episode, you will learn:

A history of portfolio management from individual stocks, to mutual funds, to ETF's, to Direct Indexing
The benefits of implementing a direct indexing strategy
- Tax Alpha
- Strategy Replication
- ESG Screens
- Strategy Replication
- Transition Management and dealing with low cost-basis securities in your portfolio

Tune in now to hear how you can ensure your future is protected properly!

Resources:

Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000 |

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Is your house covered against flood damage? Are you protected if your dog bites someone? If you fall ill, who will pay your mortgage? If you are unsure how to answer any of these questions, then this is a podcast you need to listen to.

In this episode of the Agent of Wealth podcast, Marc Bautis brings in Jason Street, President of Allegiance Insurance Brokers to discuss how they work together to ensure their clients have the coverage they really need. They will break down the different types of insurance that everyone should consider as part of their protection plan.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why it is important to know how much coverage you currently have
How an insurance broker helps you identify the right coverage for you
What an umbrella policy is and how it may be the right coverage option
Why disability insurance is important
And more!

Tune in now to hear how you can ensure your future is protected properly!

Resources:

Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000 | Allegiance Insurance Brokers

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Considering that the human life expectancy is ever-increasing, are you confident that you will have enough money to last you through retirement?

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis explains how a retirement income plan works to project how much income you will need through retirement. Marc also shares his best tips on how to save enough money during your working years and how to withdraw most wisely during retirement.

In this episode, you will learn:

What information Marc can use to calculate your probability of not running out of money in retirement
The importance of getting your money to work for you
Why a pre-retiree couple decided to work longer and pay more tax now
Why Marc is adamant about stress-testing retirement plans
And more!

Tune in now to learn strategies to guide you towards a worry-free retirement!

Resources:

Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000 | Key Financial Data 2020 | Retirement Checklist

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Are you on track for your retirement? Knowing your numbers and understanding what they mean can help you make any adjustments that are needed for you to reach your retirement goals. In this episode, Marc Bautis walks you through the important numbers and ratios that you should be aware of as you’re saving for retirement. … Continue reading Episode 32 – Retirement Numbers That Every Single Person Needs to Know: Part 1 →

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Not so long ago, it was only the big institutions that had access to all the pertinent investing information, but nowadays even the small investment firms can say they are playing at the same level. In this episode, Marc Bautis explains the history of investing and portfolio management along with how and why factor-based investing … Continue reading Episode 31 – Why We Use the Factor Investing Strategy →

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It’s easy for people to become overwhelmed with clutter. Things pile up and become a burden to deal with. But when you have specific guidance, decluttering — and even just starting the process — becomes much easier. In this episode, Marc Bautis welcomes guest Maria Diaz, owner and founder of Order & Ease, to discuss … Continue reading Episode 30 – How to Start Decluttering Your Home Today — With Maria Diaz →

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With the end of the year fast approaching, you might be starting to think about your tax situation. But as you will soon find out, it’s best to do tax planning year-round. In this episode, Marc Bautis welcomes guest Kenneth Lam, the CPA, CEO, and founder of CPA Tax & Financial Planning, to discuss ways … Continue reading Episode 29 – Tax Planning: Not Just a Year-End Event — With Kenneth Lam, CPA →

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A lot of people with Medicare wrongly believe that having only Parts A and B will be sufficient. With open enrollment period in full swing, now is the time to make adjustments to get complete coverage. In this episode, Marc Bautis welcomes returning guest Victoria Finlay to uncover why Parts A and B don’t cut … Continue reading Episode 28 – Why Medicare Parts A and B Aren’t Enough — With Victoria Finlay →

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Are you falling short on your financial goals for your retirement? If you own your own home, do you know the value of the equity you have in it? In this episode, Marc Bautis brings on a longtime friend to discuss reverse mortgages and how they may be of benefit to your financial plan. David … Continue reading Episode 27 – Can a Reverse Mortgage Fit in Your Financial Plan? — With David Faccone →

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Statistics show that the average person will change jobs 11 times over the course of their life. What happens to their 401(k)? In this episode, Marc Bautis talks about the five 401(k) options a person has when they leave their job. It turns out that this is one of the most important retirement decisions you … Continue reading Episode 26 – Changing Jobs? Don’t Forget About Your 401(k) →

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Going through a divorce can be extremely stressful and overwhelming. Could you benefit from the support of a divorce coach? In this episode, Marc Bautis is joined by divorce coach Jason Levoy to discuss what it’s like to navigate the divorce process with a coach on your side. This conversation is dedicated to bringing you … Continue reading Episode 25 – Is Divorce Coaching Right for You? — With Jason Levoy →

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Are you a CPA who has questions about individual retirement plans (IRAs)? Or maybe you just want to know more about IRAs to make sure you’re doing right for your own future. In part one of his new mini-series, Marc Bautis throws light on 10 things CPAs should know about IRAs. This informative and energetic … Continue reading Episode 24 – 10 Things CPAs Should Know About IRAs: Part 1 →

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Have you ever asked yourself, “What is a dividend?” or “Can a dividend really help me reach my financial goals?” If so, you’ll want to listen to this! In this information-rich episode, Marc Bautis dives deep into everything you need to know when planning for your financial freedom — and how dividends may help you … Continue reading Episode 23 – Can Dividends Lead to Financial Freedom? →

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The word “recession” is enough to make any economist shudder. But sometimes recessions happen and it’s important to be prepared. In this episode, Marc Bautis explains whether we should be worried about an impending recession and how to combat one if it does happen. In this episode, you will learn: The four phases of the … Continue reading Episode 22 – What Would You Do If There Was a Recession? →

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Do you want your investments to align with your personal values? If so, you may be interested in socially responsible investing! In this episode of Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis explains socially responsible investing and how to use environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investments in your portfolio. In this episode, you will learn: The … Continue reading Episode 21 – How to Use ESG Investments in Your Portfolio →

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Should you be investing in real estate? In today’s episode, Marc Bautis breaks down what investing in real estate involves and the benefits of adding it to your investment strategy. In this episode, you will learn: The main reasons to consider incorporating real estate into your portfolio The different types of real estate options available … Continue reading Episode 20 – Adding Real Estate to Your Investment Strategy →

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Do you know how much your business is worth? You deserve to know your business’s value throughout its entire lifecycle, not just when you go to exit. In this episode, Marc Bautis speaks with guest Jason Early, chief revenue officer at BizEquity, about the advantages of knowing your business’s value and how to overcome barriers … Continue reading Episode 19 – Benefits to Knowing Your Business’s Value Now — With Guest Jason Early →

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In this episode of Agent of Wealth Podcast, you will meet Victoria Finlay, a financial advisor at Bautis Financial. Victoria studied financial planning at Virginia Tech University and has been working at Bautis Financial for about a year. In this episode, you will learn: What the first year of work at a financial advising office … Continue reading Episode 18 – Meet Victoria Finlay of Bautis Financial →

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Agent of Wealth Podcast Summary Have you prepared a budget that you stick to regularly? Wondering why you should? In this episode of Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis is joined by Judy Lawrence, a personal finance counselor, speaker on money management, and author of two financial bestsellers. Marc and Judy discuss the importance of … Continue reading Episode 17 – Budgeting to Make Your Money Work for You — With Judy Lawrence →

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Perhaps you feel emotionally ready to retire, but are you financially ready? Stop the Google search and discover which financial issues to consider before you retire. In the final episode of this two-part series, Marc Bautis covers action items to take care of before retirement, including asset allocation, tax planning, and long-term planning. In this … Continue reading Episode 16 – What Issues Should I Consider Before I Retire? – Part 2 →

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Making the transition to retirement can be stressful unless you’re fully prepared for the financial, mental, and emotional changes that go with it. In this episode of Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis gives you an exclusive walk-through of his retirement preparation checklist and offers expert recommendations along the way. In this episode, you … Continue reading Episode 15 – What Should I Consider Before I Retire? →

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You planned and saved for the cost of college, and then you spent more than you ever could have imagined. Let’s face it: Student loans are daunting, and you may need help to navigate the next financial steps. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, Marc Bautis sits down with student loan expert Jan Miller of Miller Student Loan Consultants to explain how you can pay off student debt as efficiently and pain-free as possible.

In this episode, you will learn:

How Jan analyzes potential clients’ financial standings to determine their next steps.
What the four pillars of student loan repayment are and the difference between each one.
How working for a non-profit organization may save you money on loan repayment.
How to tell if your debt-repayment plan is going to be the best plan for you.
And more!

This is the third installment of a three-part college planning series. Listen to the first installment, “How To Start Saving and Planning For College,” and the second installment "How to Cut The Cost of College" — both with guest John Williams, Wealth Advisor.

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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As technology continues to advance, cyber security is becoming a necessary topic of conversation. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by John Williams, Wealth Advisor at Bautis Financial. Together, they discuss the most common cyber security threats for individuals’ and small business’ finances, and how to combat them.

In this episode, you will learn:

The importance of having workflows in place to ensure online security.
Why individuals should request a credit report twice a year.
How to tell if an email is dangerous.
Ways to strengthen your passwords to ensure security across platforms.
And more!

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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You’ve spent your life saving for your child’s education, and now the time has come for those savings to be used. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis sits down with college planning expert John Williams to discuss how you can get the most out of your college savings.

In this episode, you will learn:

The importance of applying for financial aid, even if you think you’re ineligible.
Which financial-aid applications you should fill out based on your situation.
Why attending a college that’s not on the water may actually save you money.
Whether you can exclude assets from your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) calculation.
Why you should remain realistic and upfront when planning for college.
And more!

This is the second installment of a three-part college planning series. Listen to the first installment, “How To Start Saving and Planning For College,” and the third installment "How to Pay Off Your Student Loan" with student loan expert Jan Miller of Miller Student Loan Consultants.

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Even the least financially savvy people know that saving for college is a lengthy but important process. If you’re not sure where to begin, let The Agent of Wealth host Marc Bautis and his colleague John Williams be your guides.

In this episode, you will learn:

When you should start saving for your own (or your kids’) college education.
Why 529 plans have become almost synonymous with college planning.
How investing in real estate may help you save for schooling.
Why it’s important to be flexible when it comes to planning for college.
And more!

This is the first installment of a three-part college planning series. Listen to the second installment, "How to Cut The Cost of College," which also features John Williams. And the third installment, "How to Pay Off Your Student Loan" with Jan Miller of Miller Student Loan Consultants.

Resources:
Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: (862) 205-5000

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Marc Bautis’ newest series covers content from the financial planning workshops that he and his team put on in North Jersey. In this first part, Marc teaches you how to maximize your Social Security benefit and he clears up common misconceptions along the way. In this episode, you will learn: How Social Security adjusts for … Continue reading Episode 10 – Financial Workshops Part 1: Maximizing Your Social Security →

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Right now the markets are a little precarious and have been more volatile in the last month than they have been over the past decade. Are you wondering how much risk exposure you have in your portfolio? Today, Marc Bautis explains how investors can incorporate enough risk in their portfolios to achieve their goals—while still … Continue reading Episode 9 – Understanding Risk in Your Portfolio →

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g7us9p4g A lot of people want to achieve big goals, like starting a business, losing weight, investing in a real estate project—or all of the above. But many people don’t achieve their biggest goals. Why is that? In this episode, Marc Bautis shares what successful people do differently to land their achievements. In this episode … Continue reading Episode 8 – This is How Successful People Achieve Big Goals →

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For the past few years, investors have experienced mostly smooth sailing conditions in the stock market. However, the markets have become rockier since October, prompting investors to wonder what actions they should be taking. Today, Marc Bautis dives into the current state of the economy, outlining what’s going on, what’s causing the recent turbulence, and … Continue reading Episode 7 – Breaking Down the Current State of the Economy →

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How often do you reassess your tax planning or insurance policies? In the fourth and final part of Marc Bautis’ mini-series on year-end financial planning, Marc shares several ways you can reassess your taxes and insurance to maximize your financial potential. In this episode, you will learn: How the new tax laws will affect your … Continue reading Episode 6 – Last Chance Financial Planning: Part 4 →

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It’s time for part three of Marc Bautis’ financial planning series! Today, Marc details how you can plan for major life transitions, like selling a home or adopting a child. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to determine if downsizing will actually save you money Four options for your 401(k) or retirement account if you … Continue reading Episode 5 – Last Chance Financial Planning: Part 3 →

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Marc Bautis is back to share his year-end checklist with you! In part two, Marc tells you everything you need to know about making retirement plan contributions before 2019 rolls in. Here’s what you will learn about in this episode: The benefit of making contributions to your retirement plan The contribution limits and deadlines … Continue reading Episode 4 – Last Chance Financial Planning: Part 2 →

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Do you wait until April to look over your finances? If so, you’re not alone; most people wait until spring to do a review. But there are financial matters that need to be taken care of by December 31st. Today, Marc Bautis is kicking off a new mini-series on his year-end financial planning checklist, covering … Continue reading Episode 3 – Your 2018 Year-End Financial Checklist: Part 1 →

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There are unforeseen risks that could knock your retirement plan off course. In today’s episode, Marc Bautis will help you better prepare for retirement by walking you through six potential risks. Explaining each risk in a way that is easy to understand, Marc discusses: Accounting for inflation as you build your savings Tax-efficient ways to … Continue reading Episode 2 – Six Threats to Your Retirement →

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Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Agent of Wealth podcast. It’s time to learn all about your host, Marc Bautis, wealth manager and founder of Bautis Financial. Marc discusses why he’s adamant about providing client education, why he’s a believer in stress-testing your portfolio, and why he has committed to reading one book per … Continue reading Episode 1 – Introduction to Marc Bautis, Wealth Manager and Founder of Bautis Financial →

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Marc Bautis