In this podcast we breakdown how to move your wealth, purpose and lifestyle forward with clarity and confidence. Always Forward is this show’s mantra. Enjoy the podcast with host and WealthStyle evangelists, Russ Carpentieri, Iván Watanabe and the rest of the Opus Private Client team.
Physicians spend years training for their careers, but many enter employment agreements without fully understanding the long-term implications hidden in their contracts.
What happens if a job turns out to be the wrong fit? What rights do physicians actually have when they want to leave, negotiate compensation, or protect themselves from future liability?
In this episode, Iván Watanabe speaks with Angela Shofner, Owner and CEO of Shofner Consulting LLC, and Michael Shofner, COO of Shofner Consulting LLC, about physician contract reviews and the common issues doctors face when evaluating employment agreements. They explore termination clauses, non-compete restrictions, compensation benchmarking, practice acquisitions, tail coverage, and negotiation strategies.
The conversation highlights how physicians can better understand their contracts, protect their careers, and make informed employment decisions throughout every stage of practice.
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About Angela & Michael Shofner:
Angela began her professional career as a teacher, spending four years in education before returning to school to pursue a career in law. That foundation sparked a lifelong passion for the educational side of her work — helping clients better understand complex legal and healthcare matters with clarity and confidence.
A graduate of Nashville School of Law (Class of 2014), Angela has built her career around healthcare law, physician advocacy, and strategic consulting. In 2022, she founded Shofner Consulting to provide practical, relationship-driven guidance for physicians and healthcare organizations navigating contracts, business strategy, and growth opportunities.
Known for her approachable communication style and collaborative mindset, Angela enjoys empowering clients through both legal guidance and education.
Michael Shofner is a healthcare recruitment professional with a background in education, leadership, and relationship-building. Before transitioning into healthcare recruitment, Michael spent ten years in education, first as a teacher and later as principal of Madison Academy. After earning his MBA from Lipscomb University in 2016, Michael joined Kettering Health as a physician recruiter.
Currently serving as a physician recruiter for Align ENT + Allergy, he is passionate about connecting physicians with opportunities where they can thrive personally and professionally while helping healthcare organizations grow strong, collaborative teams.
Outside of their professional endeavors, they are proud parents to their two daughters. They enjoy traveling, trying new food, playing games, and reading.
Owning real estate can generate income and long-term wealth, but it can also entail management responsibilities, tax considerations, and difficult decisions when it’s time to sell.
What options are available if you want to keep real estate exposure without continuing to manage properties yourself?
In this episode, Evan Wohl and George Papanicolaou are joined by Brendan Tammany, Senior Vice President, Private Capital at Inland Securities Corporation, to explore Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) and how they can fit into a real estate strategy.
They discuss how DSTs operate within 1031 exchanges, the benefits of passive ownership, the differences between DSTs and REITs, liquidity considerations, estate-planning opportunities, and how accredited investors can access institutional-quality real estate while avoiding many of the day-to-day responsibilities of property ownership.
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Brendan Tammany, Senior Vice President, Private Capital, Inland Securities Corporation, is responsible for partnering with financial advisors in the North East to complete successful 1031 exchanges as well as cash investments with Inland Private Capital Corporation. He began his career at Inland in 2022 as a Regional Associate II and was promoted to Vice President, Hybrid Wholesaler in 2023. He was promoted to Vice President, Exchange Consultant in 2024.
Prior to joining Inland, Mr. Tammany was an Advisory Consultant for Macquarie Asset Management’s Mutual Fund sales team. He began his career in financial services in 2014 working as an M&A Analyst for a boutique Investment Banking firm GriƯin Financial Group. Mr. Tammany graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelors of Science in Business Administration majoring in Finance. He holds Series 7, 63, 65, and 79 licenses with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).
Change can feel uncomfortable, especially when new technology forces people to rethink their work, values, and future.
How can leaders help people move from fear into thoughtful action?
In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl speak with Laurence Anthony, Founder, CEO, and Head Coach of Go Further Coaching, about AI adoption, fear, emotional intelligence, and leading through uncertainty. Laurence explains why the fear around AI may be the real transformation, how teams can create clarity during change, and why asking “what could we do?” opens the door to creativity, action, and stronger human connection.
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Laurence Anthony is one-of-one. Laurence is the strategist organizations rely on when change has created chaos and clarity is needed. He is a PCC-certified executive coach, keynote speaker, and Founder of Go Further Coaching. Laurence brings a career of unparalleled depth to every room he enters: from crisis strategy in Washington D.C. to the boardrooms of Google, United Airlines, and RBC. Laurence transforms how companies lead through uncertainty, shifting the focus from the impossible pursuit of being fearless to developing the courage to fear less.
He is the Founder of Go Further Coaching, a global leadership and culture transformation firm trusted by companies including Google, United Airlines, RBC, Capital One, and APG Federal Credit Union.
Laurence has built a career defined by unusual range: a successful actor with credits on NBC’s 30 Rock and Saw 3D; the executive who revitalized Harlem’s legendary jazz venue Minton’s and led The Cecil to win Esquire’s Best New Restaurant in America; a crisis strategist in Washington D.C. consulting across finance, retail, and political sectors. That depth is exactly what makes his approach different.
His core belief: organizations do not need to be fearless. That is impossible. They need to fear less. That distinction is everything. Through his proprietary Fear-Less Leadership Framework and AI Adoption Curve, Laurence converts organizational fear into forward momentum, replacing confusion with clarity and turbulence with traction. He does not motivate. He activates.
Many people have an idea they want to pursue, but fear often keeps them from taking the first step.
What happens when you stop waiting for the perfect moment and commit to showing up consistently, even when the outcome is uncertain?
In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl welcome Synthia Link, Owner of Lifestyle Makeover Foundations. Synthia shares her journey from Broadway performer and Radio City Rockette to building a thriving nutrition coaching business serving women across the country. She explains how authenticity, consistency, paid Instagram advertising, and investing in mentorship helped her grow her company while creating a life that aligns with her family priorities and long-term goals.
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Synthia grew up on Long Island and always dreamed of being on Broadway. After lots of years of hard work she achieved that goal performing in shows such as: How to Succeed in Business…, Bullets over Broadway, Young Frankenstein, Big Fish, and Frozen. She was a Radio City Rockette for 5 years, performed on the great stage at the Met. Opera, and was in multiple episodes of Smash.
After a successful career in the theatre, she decided to pivot and focus on a career that provided more time with her family. In 2022, she created her signature nutrition program “Lifestyle Makeover Foundations.” She has worked with over 800 women, all over the world, to lose weight without counting calories, macros, or restrictive dieting. She currently lives in Lloyd Harbor, NY with her two children, husband, & dog!
Retirement planning can feel clear on paper until market swings, taxes, inflation, and longevity enter the picture.
What if the real issue isn’t picking the right product, but knowing which problem you’re trying to solve first?
In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl talk with Neal Brincefield, RICP, CLU, ChFC, CExP, Financial Advisor at Consolidated Planning, about Monte Carlo analysis, sequence of returns risk, and retirement income design. Neal explains why simulations should be used as stress tests, not crystal balls, and how a balanced strategy can help reduce pressure on a portfolio.
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Neal Brincefield has dedicated his professional career to helping people realize their full financial potential by both working with those individuals directly and by recruiting, training, and coaching hundreds of other financial advisors to do the same.
Neal started in the financial services industry with Consolidated Planning, Inc. in 2005, initially as an advisor and has maintained that role ever since. In addition to that 1st role, Neal has also worn the hats of top manager, case coach, agency head and national trainer. In those capacities, he has had the opportunity to work with hundreds of Guardian FRs on thousands of cases to refine their process, improve their results and better serve their clients.
In 2017, Neal was retained as a special field consultant by Guardian to lead their effort around the company’s industry-leading planning system, The Living Balance Sheet®. Neal’s mission in leading LBS into the future is to continue to provide and refine: 1) An incredible experience for clients 2) A powerful set of planning tools for advisors and 3) An unparalleled recruiting and productivity tool for agency leaders.
Under Neal’s stewardship of LBS, Guardian continues to be the only company in the industry whose planning system is led by members of its field force, underscoring Guardian’s commitment to supporting its Financial Representatives and by extension the clients whom they’ve committed their careers to serve.
Neal lives in Chapel Hill, NC with his wife Sarah and their 3 children.
Buying a franchise can sound simple until the numbers, staffing, and daily decisions start to get real.
How do you know whether a franchise fits your goals, cash flow, and lifestyle?
In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl speak with Scott Thompson, CEO of Your Future Franchise, about what prospective franchise owners should understand before investing. Scott shares how to evaluate the franchise disclosure document, why working capital matters, what strong franchisors provide, and how buyers can match their strengths, financial position, and goals with the right franchise opportunity.
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Scott Thompson is a nationally recognized franchise leader with over two decades of experience growing some of the most respected brands in health, wellness, beauty, and personal services. Over his career, he has served in many roles — including franchisee, multi-unit operator, board member, and private equity–backed executive — giving him a 360° perspective on what it takes to build and scale successful franchise brands.
Now, as a Franchise Consultant with FranChoice, Scott offers a proven, no-cost consultative process to help individuals, couples, executives in transition, existing multi-unit operators, and PE & Family Office investors explore franchising. He guides them through discovering opportunities that align with their financial goals, lifestyle vision, and growth strategies — ultimately becoming confident, successful business owners.
Over his career, Scott has:
Whether guiding an executive into their first franchise, helping an experienced operator diversify, or advising private equity groups on brand acquisition and portfolio growth, Scott brings the same core philosophy: “InServiceTo” his clients’ success.
With deep industry relationships, a data-driven approach, and firsthand ownership experience, Scott has a rare 360° perspective on franchising. He understands what makes a franchise thrive and how to match the right people to the right opportunities.
If you’re ready to explore franchise ownership, scale your portfolio, or evaluate brands for acquisition, Scott is a trusted partner who can get you from curiosity to confident ownership.
Student loans are changing fast, and the rules are getting harder to follow.
What if the biggest risk is not your balance, but the path you choose to manage it?
In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl interview Geoffrey Urquhart, CEO of Sharp Notions and Founder of RefiDesk, about how borrowers can adapt to evolving student loan policies. He explains recent federal changes, new borrowing caps, and how repayment options are shifting toward income-based plans. Geoffrey also shares how to evaluate forgiveness versus refinancing, common mistakes borrowers make, and why planning earlier, even during school, can significantly impact long-term outcomes.
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Geoff Urquhart is the CEO of G Sharp Inc. and the founder of RefiDesk, a platform that helps financial advisors and their clients make smarter decisions regarding student loans.
He previously co-founded GradFin, a student loan platform that worked with thousands of borrowers and advisors before being acquired by KeyBank.
Geoff has spent over a decade focused on simplifying complex student loan decisions—helping borrowers navigate forgiveness programs, repayment strategies, and refinancing options. His work today centers on making that expertise more accessible through technology so advisors and clients can get clear, actionable answers without needing to become experts themselves.
What does it really mean to be financially free, and can a high income alone get you there?
In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl sit down with Dr. Talha Kaner, physician and watch dealer, whose company generated $5 million in sales in its second year. Dr. Kaner shares how his lifelong passion for timepieces evolved into a thriving business built alongside his medical career.
They cover the hidden mechanics of the luxury watch market, from authorized dealer games to gray market strategies, the value of building a business rooted in genuine passion, and how forming an LLC opened his eyes to financial opportunities that W2 earners often miss.
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Talha Kaner, MD is a full-time physician, entrepreneur, and father of two. Originally from Turkey, he moved to the United States in 2014 following medical school to pursue advanced medical training. He completed his residency in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation in Detroit, Michigan and New York City, followed by a fellowship in Spinal Cord Injury Medicine in Texas.
Since 2021, Dr. Kaner has served as the Medical Director of Acute Rehabilitation Services in Norfolk, Nebraska, where he leads multidisciplinary teams focused on restoring function and improving quality of life for patients.
Alongside his medical career, Dr. Kaner is the founder of Aslan Watches, a luxury watch trading company built from pure passion for horology. Through Aslan Watches, he helps like-minded collectors curate meaningful timepiece collections by leveraging deep market knowledge, trusted sourcing, and a commitment to transparency. His unique position as a physician and business owner fosters a high level of trust, offering clients peace of mind in every transaction.
Operating across multiple platforms—including aslanwatches.com, Instagram (@aslanwatches), Chrono24, and eBay—Aslan Watches has grown into a respected name among collectors seeking authenticity, value, and long-term relationships.
Financial decisions often seem straightforward until the details start to matter.
Are you making the right moves with taxes, savings, and long-term planning, or just following default choices without realizing the impact?
In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl walk through real client questions in a rapid-fire format. They cover RSU taxation, retirement account choices, and how to think about future tax exposure. They also explore saving strategies, diversification, and how to evaluate major financial decisions. Throughout the conversation, they share practical ways to avoid common pitfalls and stay aligned with long-term goals.
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The way we consume video has transformed rapidly, but what does that mean for media companies, advertisers, and families planning for the future?
As technology accelerates and AI reshapes workflows, where does human connection still matter most?
In this episode, Evan Wohl speaks with Ryan Spicer, Chief Revenue Officer of Atmosphere TV, about how the media industry has shifted from traditional television to on-demand, multi-platform viewing. They explore how streaming, ad models, and AI are reshaping digital media and advertising workflows. Ryan shares insights on connected TV outside the home, the blending of industry buckets, and why human skills like communication and critical thinking will matter even more in an AI-driven future.
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Ryan Spicer is the Chief Revenue Officer for Atmosphere, the leading connected television platform for businesses, spearheading the national and local ad sales teams across the organization. Ryan is a 18+ year media professional with leadership & strategy experience in linear television, premium digital publishers, content marketing & experiential activations across news, sports, and entertainment.
Ryan previously spent more than 14 years at Turner & WarnerMedia, now part of Warner Bros Discovery, helping transform the leading media company from a legacy linear entity to a multi-platform content distributor with robust digital consumer engagement.
In recent years, Ryan led client partnerships for the CNN Digital portfolio, across the Northeast, Southeast and Midwest territories, focusing on the brand’s digital, mobile and branded content offerings, and was among the sales leadership team for the successful launch of the HBO MAX with Ads steaming product.
Starting a family often changes how people think about money, responsibility, and risk. The real challenge is not access to information, but turning it into clear action before small gaps become big problems.
In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Russell J. Carpentieri, Founder and Managing Partner at OPUS Private Client, LLC, walk through the foundational planning steps families should address as life becomes more complex. They focus on understanding cash flow, evaluating employee benefits, and identifying coverage gaps before making bigger financial decisions. The conversation highlights how simple check-the-box actions can reduce exposure, why wills are often overlooked, and how planning brings clarity when expenses and responsibilities grow.
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About Our Guest:
Russell J. Carpentieri has over 34 years of experience in the Health/Welfare industry. He is the co-founder of Opus Private Client, LLC, and Opus Advisory Group, LLC. Russell manages the life insurance, retirement, and healthcare practices within each entity. His clients represent various industries, including finance, private equity, retail, real estate, healthcare, entertainment, and professional services.
A believer in continuous professional development, Russell is an active member of the American Association of Life Underwriters, National Association of Health Underwriters, J.P Morgan, and Westchester County Blue Ribbon Task Force for NYS healthcare. As well, he spends time guest lecturing for numerous private equities, CFO and real estate symposiums, and insurance carrier conferences.
Russell also cares deeply about his community. In fact, he is a founding member of the Make-a-Wish Foundation’s Westchester Chapter. In addition to serving on the Syracuse University Athletic Board and National Football Foundation Board, Russell enjoys being involved in the American Heart Association, 21st Century Board of White Plains Hospital, and the Pajama Program at Turtle Bay Music School in New York City.
After graduating from Syracuse University’s management and finance program in 1983, Russell joined the New York Jets Football Club for two seasons as a special-teams player.
Russell lives in Bedford, New York, with his wife, Suzanne. They have four children: Stefan, Nikolas, Maia, and Sophia.
Having Difficult Conversations With Aging Parents: How To Start And What To Say
In this episode of the WealthStyle Podcast, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl are joined by psychotherapist Maria Graceffa to explore how families can approach difficult conversations with aging parents around estate planning, healthcare decisions, and end-of-life wishes.
The discussion focuses less on financial details and more on communication, timing, and emotional awareness. Maria shares why topics that feel taboo are often the most important to address, and how understanding your audience matters just as much as having the right information. The conversation covers practical guidance on aligning with siblings before approaching parents, choosing the right messenger, and framing discussions as invitations rather than directives.
Listeners will also learn what language to avoid, how silence can create space for trust, and what to do when conversations become emotional or go off track. This episode offers thoughtful, real-world insight for anyone navigating multi-generational planning conversations and wanting to protect family relationships while creating clarity for the future.
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Listen to this episode of the WealthStyle Podcast and subscribe to stay connected to conversations that move your wealth and lifestyle forward, always forward.
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Maria Graceffa is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York and Connecticut. She earned her degree in Psychological Counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University, and is known for being an exceptional listener—a professional secret-keeper, in the best colloquial sense.
Maria is a seasoned clinician, creating a supportive space where clients can heal their vulnerabilities. She communicates directly—no BS—while always leading with gentle compassion. Her work focuses on helping clients process old hurts, develop new and adaptive belief systems, and build healthier behavior patterns that support lasting change. She helps folks have the hard conversations to get unstuck within family, work, and overall life. Maria is further specialized, offering EMDR and couples counseling.
Outside of the therapy room, Maria is a real sports-ball-Mom, with gear, goggles, nets, and balls for every season. She also shares her days with a senior pup who still performs daily auditions for Cirque du Soleil, keeping life both grounded and entertaining.
What does it take to run 240 miles through storms, sleep deprivation, mountains, desert nights, and total isolation, while raising two kids and leading a fast-growing career in healthcare?
Christine O’Hara Ryan joins the WealthStyle Podcast to share the truth behind completing the Moab 240, one of the toughest ultramarathons in the world, and how the experience reshaped her perspective on leadership, parenting, focus, and what we are capable of when we decide to move forward with intention.
Christine explains how she trained for nearly a year around work and parenting, the storms that nearly stopped the race, the hallucinations, the fear, the support team that helped her push through the darkest stretches, and why she crossed the finish line with only fifteen minutes to spare. Her story is not just about endurance. It is about clarity, discipline, and the small steps that move every part of life forward.
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Christine O’Hara Ryan is a leader who knows what it means to go the distance — in business, in sport, and in life. A senior sales leader and ultra-endurance athlete, she has built a career transforming teams, elevating leaders, and driving meaningful growth across healthcare, medtech, and high-growth startups. She is known for bringing clarity to chaos, inspiring high performance, and building mission-driven cultures that move with both urgency and heart.
In 2025, Christine completed the MOAB 240 — one of the toughest ultramarathons on the planet — crossing the finish line as the final official runner after five relentless days on the trail. Her endurance journey spans Ironmans, Mt. Kilimanjaro, collegiate hockey, and numerous ultra-distance events. She draws on these experiences to teach leaders how to cultivate resilience, lead with purpose, and stay committed when the path gets steep.
Christine’s message is simple: grit is built, not born — and anyone can rewrite what they believe is possible. At the core of her approach is focus — the courage to choose what matters most and the discipline to let go of everything that doesn’t. Her leadership philosophy is shaped by long hours training alone on the trail: pace yourself, trust your team, stay present, and keep moving forward, one mile at a time.
Most of all, Christine is a mom of two young kids — her greatest motivation and constant reminder that courage is contagious, and that bold lives are built by showing up, again and again, with heart.
Divorce is one of the most emotional and confusing transitions someone can face, and most people are not prepared for how overwhelming the process can feel.
Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl talk with Meg Priest, founder of Plan for Divorce, about why she created a service that helps women prepare emotionally, financially, and logistically before filing. Meg shares her own experience navigating a non-contentious divorce that still cost over fifty thousand dollars, much of it spent on administrative tasks that could have been handled more efficiently with the right guidance.
She explains why preparation can reduce both legal fees and emotional strain, how checklists and structured planning keep people grounded, and why slowing down before filing may lead to a smoother, less reactive process.
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When my marriage ended, I spent more than $50,000 on my divorce—and about 85% of what I spent wasn’t for legal strategy. It was for administrative work: forms, documentation, and endless process. It turns out I didn’t need a lawyer for all that. I needed a Divorce Organizer. I didn’t have one, so I became one.
After 20+ years leading HR and Talent teams, I know how to bring order and efficiency to complicated situations. Now, I use that same skill set to help women take control of the practical side of divorce—organizing their finances, paperwork, and plans so they can spend their money wisely and make clear, confident decisions.
And because divorce is often the catalyst for needing to rebuild or improve finances, I also help clients strengthen their professional foundation—leveraging my insider knowledge from years in hiring and leadership to help women position themselves for better roles, negotiate with confidence, and step into careers that truly support their next chapter.
I believe preparation is power. The more organized you are, the less you’ll spend—and the more peace you’ll have.
Now I help women get organized before they file — so they can spend less, stress less, and make clear, confident decisions through one of the hardest transitions of their lives.
Outside of work, I’m a mom to a son and daughter and my two wonderful former step-sons (now adults). Family needn’t be defined by legal documents. I’m also an avid kayaker—there’s nothing like time on the water to reset, refocus, and remind me what matters most.
What does it take to turn reflection into forward momentum?
As another year closes, the opportunity to pause and assess becomes more valuable than ever. Looking back at wins, lessons, and shifts can reveal patterns that shape how we approach what comes next.
In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl reflect on their standout moments from 2025, the shifts they’re seeing in client needs and technology, and what they’re prioritizing as they head into 2026. They discuss personal milestones like turning 40, the importance of pushing physical limits, how AI is reshaping work and relationships, and why building community matters more than ever. They also share insights on balancing family, career growth, and staying adaptable in a rapidly changing environment.
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Student loans have shifted so many times this year that even well-informed professionals are unsure what rules still apply.
Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl talk with returning guest Joe McGrath of GradFin to help bring clarity to a landscape that feels anything but stable right now. Joe explains what borrowers should understand about the SAVE program pause, why PSLF has become harder to navigate, and how the upcoming RAP program could reshape repayment for years to come.
He also discusses the mistakes that often derail forgiveness and the updated refinancing environment as rates continue to adjust.
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Joseph McGrath presents GradFin’s services to financial advisors from coast to coast about the value of meeting with a student loan consultant to help navigate the perfect repayment plan. In addition to his current role in sales and client management, he has additional experience in both the recruiting and non-profit industries. Joseph currently lives in Philadelphia and is a graduate of Temple University’s Fox School Of Business with a BBA in Marketing.
How do you help a child thrive, especially when traditional methods fall short?
In this heartfelt episode, Iván Watanabe sits down with Mindy Coolidge and Meredith Greenwald, co-founders of Up, Up & Away, to talk about Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), building trust with neurodiverse children, and how true progress happens when empathy leads the way.
As behavior analysts with decades of experience, they share why “happy, relaxed, and engaged” is the gold standard and how their relationship-first model is changing lives, one child at a time.
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Meredith Greenwald is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, New York State Licensed Behavior Analyst, New York State Certified Special Education Teacher, and co-founder of Up Up and Away Behavior Analyst PC. She received her BA in Psychology at Lafayette College in 1998 and her MA in Special Education from New York University in 2000. Meredith has 18 years of experience using the principles and practices of Applied Behavior Analysis, working with children diagnosed with Autism and other developmental delays. She excels at developing and implementing programs, social skills training, relationship development, and family training. Meredith lives in Stamford, CT with her husband and two children. She has four dogs – Mabel, George, Pixel, and Cookie.
Mindy Lee Coolidge is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, New York State Licensed Behavior Analyst, New York State Certified Special Education and General Education Teacher, and co-founder of Up Up and Away Behavior Analyst PC. Mindy has 11 years of experience working with children who have the diagnosis of Autism, have other developmental delays, cognitive impairments, and/or problem behavior. Mindy excels in the areas of: building meaningful relationships with students and their families, speaking as an expert witness/ advocating for a student, administering assessments and creating programming based on the results, collaborating with families and teams for best outcomes, and using the science of ABA to help every child learn in an individualized way that is meaningful, fun, and effective.
Most people think the path to wealth is income, and today’s guest, Morgan Keim, thought that, too. But after building food-tech startups for a decade, he realized financial freedom required more than a high-paying job; it required a fundamental shift.
Join host Iván Watanabe and his former high school classmate, Morgan Keim, as they explore how undervalued properties in emerging markets can deliver both purpose and profit. From the concept of “pride of rentership” to AI-powered lease-ups, Morgan is redefining workforce housing and reshaping what it means to build lasting wealth.
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Morgan is the Managing Partner of Ocean Ridge Capital, a real estate private equity firm that specializes in matching high net worth investors with recession-resilient assets to create tax-efficient cash flow and compound wealth. With 15+ years as a former startup executive (having raised over $400M to build and scale food-tech ventures), and over a decade in multifamily real estate investing (across 2,500+ doors), Morgan expertly combines creativity, strategic insight, and decisive action that creates durable wealth for his clients. He is based in Orange County, CA where he lives with his wife and two young daughters.
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What if your child could say “investment” before they could spell it?
In this heartfelt and deeply practical episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl welcome Dr. Michele Cho Dorado, a pediatric gastroenterologist turned financial literacy advocate for kids. Michele shares how her own lack of financial education, despite years of medical training, led her to write a series of children’s books that teach money concepts through stories and play.
Together, they explore how families can normalize money conversations, build values-driven wealth legacies, and raise empowered, financially confident children. It’s not about raising rich kids, it’s about raising capable ones.
Here’s what you can expect from the episode:
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Dr. Michele Cho Dorado is a physician, author, entrepreneur, and advocate for empowering children through financial literacy. As the founder of Bright Futures EDG (Empower Develop Grow), she inspires through storytelling and actionable strategies that connect wealth building with family values, leadership, and legacy. She is the author of Mimi’s Money Book series, which introduces core money concepts to kids.
She has hosted the Prosperous Kids Summit for the past 2 years, an annual event that brings together experts to help parents raise financially grounded and confident children. She has had numerous publications and speaking engagements, cofounded the Physician Entrepreneur Exchange, and is also an active real estate investor.
However, her most important role is that of mom to her two young kids and wife to her husband. Through it all, Michele’s mission remains the same – to empower young minds and build wealthy futures.
When Lou Mohn’s mother passed away, he found himself navigating not just grief, but the full weight of estate, financial, and logistical complexity.
Despite being a seasoned advisor, Lou was surprised by how many small but critical details were missing, from automatic subscriptions and Social Security clawbacks to safe deposit box keys and the burial plot’s location.
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Most people think insurance is a checkbox. But the truth is, it’s one of the most overlooked and misunderstood tools in protecting your wealth.
In this episode, Evan Wohl sits down with Mike Silverman, President and CEO of Silver Lining Insurance Agency, to explore the hidden risks in property and casualty insurance and why calling an 800 number might leave you dangerously exposed.
With nearly 40 years in the industry, Mike unpacks why relationships matter, what umbrella policies really cover, and how your insurance strategy should evolve as your life does.
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Michael has spent his entire career in the insurance field. He began his career in 1988 with Guardian’s S&W Agency (now known as Strategies for Wealth). Over the past 30+ years, he has earned a reputation for his industry knowledge and expertise, his commitment to his clients, and his overall passion for his life’s work.
Michael, President & CEO of Silver Lining Insurance Agency, Inc., is responsible for new business development, as well as client relations and sales. He is a committed advisor and helps our clients make educated choices on what product or service best suits their wants. Over the years, his practical experience and proactive approach have allowed him to advise both individuals and businesses on how to identify and manage their level of risk.
Michael holds a bachelor’s degree from George Washington University and Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC), and Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designations. Michael was raised in Livingston, New Jersey, and returned to raise his family. In 2019, Michael and his wife of 30 years, Daena, moved to West Orange, NJ.
Through the years, Michael has been an active member of numerous township committees and has sat on the Board of his local synagogue, where he served two terms as President. In 2012, Michael was elected Councilmember to the Township of Livingston, and in 2014 and 2015, he served as both Mayor & Deputy Mayor. Michael is also active in several other philanthropic endeavors.
Dr. Tracy Gapin used to be a high-powered urologist running a fast-paced surgical practice. But after hitting a wall, burnout, brain fog, and a crushing sense of disconnection, he pivoted.
This episode dives into Dr. Gapin’s powerful personal story and the evolution of his work at the Gapin Institute, where he’s now redefining health optimization through personalized medicine, wearable tech, and data-driven coaching.
He and Iván discuss the emotional toll of the traditional healthcare system, the emerging power of diagnostics and HRV tracking, and how doctors can escape burnout by building practices around purpose, not just patients.
What to expect:
Resources:
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About Our Guest:
When Dr. Tracy Gapin was 9 years old, he traced the flow of blood through the heart in a science class and felt instantly fascinated, not just by how the body worked, but by the idea that he could one day help others stay strong, resilient, and fully alive.
He earned his medical degree at UT Southwestern in Dallas and completed a residency at the University of Florida. He chose urology because it brought together surgical precision and men’s health. He saw it as a way to support men through vulnerable, high-stakes moments and help them reclaim their confidence and quality of life.
Around 2010, he felt stuck in a system that rewarded volume over value. The long hours, hospital bureaucracy, and lack of freedom began to take their toll. Tracy wanted more, not only for himself, but also for his patients and his family.
So he did what he always does, and went all in. For nearly 10 years, he learned everything he could from the best experts in the world about business, longevity, performance, and functional health. Then, in 2018, while still at his urology practice, he founded the Gapin Institute to redefine what healthcare could look like. He merged precision medicine, diagnostics, and performance optimization into an integrated model to help people live and lead at their highest level.
It’s not market volatility or inflation. It’s not even longevity. The greatest threat to your retirement is something most people have never heard of: sequence of return risk.
In this episode of The WealthStyle Podcast, Evan Wohl and Adam Rolewicz reveal the hidden math of early market losses and why two retirees with the same savings can face drastically different futures.
You’ll learn why the timing of your returns matters more than the average, what a buffer asset is and how it works, and how you can design a plan that turns your retirement savings into lasting income with confidence and clarity.
What to expect:
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What if everything you think you know about college admissions is wrong?
In this electrifying episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl sit down with Kate Stone, founder of Kate Stone Prep, to unpack why getting into college and building a meaningful life takes more than grades and a good essay. Drawing from her roots in acting, global teaching experience, and years of mentoring students through transformative projects, Kate explains how real-world skills, big goals, and personal authenticity are redefining the college prep game.
She doesn’t just coach students to write their best essays; she coaches them to live their best stories.
What to expect in this episode:
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About Our Guest:
Kate Stone is an Experienced College Admissions Consultant and College Essay Coach. Kate received her B.S. in Education and a minor in Creative Writing. She continued on as a teaching fellow in Asia. Kate transformed her passion for storytelling into actionable strategies for the college admissions process, essays, and the application as a whole. Her program coaches students to develop and strategize their most powerful narratives based on their individual ideas and achievements.
Some of Kate’s strategies include: Creating a Balanced College List, How to Choose an Essay Topic, College Essay Format: Narrative Structure vs. Montage Structure, How to Approach the Additional Information Section and Why it’s Important, Tackling the ‘Why Us’ Essays. Kate’s students have been accepted to Harvard, Yale, Columbia, Stanford, University of Chicago, NYU, Brown, Berkeley, UPenn, USC, UCLA, The New School, Northwestern, Duke, Emory, and American University of Paris.
What does it take to lead in a world where your adversaries are invisible?
In this candid conversation, host Evan Wohl sits down with Dan Singer, founder and CEO of cybersecurity firm Reveald, to talk about the realities of building a company that fights on digital battlefields every day. But this isn’t just a tech story, it’s a human one.
Dan shares his journey from college side hustles to leading high-stakes innovation in cybersecurity, and the lessons he’s learned along the way from hiring for scar tissue, to designing a mission-driven culture, to raising a family while building something meaningful.
What to expect in this episode:
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About Our Guest:
Dan Singer is the CEO of Reveald and a recognized visionary in the cybersecurity space. With a career defined by bold leadership and innovative thinking, Dan has positioned Reveald at the forefront of proactive cybersecurity solutions. He believes cybersecurity should be more than just a defensive measure, it should be aligned with proactive security strategies to get ahead of the growing threat adversaries possess. Aligning strategic drivers that have the potential to impact the business, building resilience, and being on the cutting edge of defensive strategies. Dan’s leadership is characterized by a relentless focus on turning complex security challenges into streamlined, scalable opportunities. His strategic merger of Reveald with Epiphany Systems created a powerhouse alliance, combining advanced threat modeling with next-generation technology to deliver unmatched cyber risk reduction at scale. Throughout his career, Dan has championed the idea that businesses don’t have to live in fear of cyber threats. Instead, he empowers organizations to approach security with confidence, ensuring clarity and speed in decision making for security operators. Under Dan’s guidance, Reveald continues to redefine what’s possible in cybersecurity, bridging the gap between proactive and defensive strategies.
In sports, a great coach can transform a team. In business, the same is true for a great leader.
Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl continue their conversation with sports psychiatrist Jorge Aguilar, diving deeper into the psychology of leadership and what high-performing athletic teams can teach executives and entrepreneurs about building culture, hiring effectively, and driving growth.
Instead of obsessing over wins, Jorge encourages leaders to focus on alignment, excellence, and psychological safety. Because when people feel safe and valued, they can thrive.
What to expect from this episode:
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About Dr. Jorge Aguilar:
Dr. Aguilar is a board-certified psychiatrist providing mental performance training and talk therapy to athletes in collegiate, Olympic, and professional sports. He is the team sport psychiatrist to New York City FC in Major League Soccer (MLS) and a consultant to Major League Baseball (MLB) on mental health and mental performance. He also participates in the MLB Rookie Development Program, assisting young players transitioning to the Major Leagues. He is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and the Director of Sport & Performance Psychiatry at Montefiore-Einstein. He trained in Pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and completed a Psychiatry Residency and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center in New York. Dr. Aguilar specializes in the assessment and treatment of psychiatric conditions commonly seen in sports, and uses a unique hybrid of sport psychology and evidence-based talk therapy to help athletes elevate their performance in sport and daily life.
Discover how the mindset of elite athletes can help you perform better at work and in life.
In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl sit down with Dr. Jorge Aguilar, a board-certified psychiatrist and mental performance coach to NYCFC and MLB players, to explore how proven mental strategies from the world of sports can boost focus, resilience, and productivity in your everyday routine. From managing pressure to staying focused and building resilience, this episode connects the dots between sports psychology and everyday professional success.
Gain valuable insights such as:
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About Dr. Jorge Aguilar:
Dr. Aguilar is a board-certified psychiatrist providing mental performance training and talk therapy to athletes in collegiate, Olympic, and professional sports. He is the team sport psychiatrist to New York City FC in Major League Soccer (MLS) and a consultant to Major League Baseball (MLB) on mental health and mental performance. He also participates in the MLB Rookie Development Program, assisting young players transitioning to the Major Leagues. He is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and the Director of Sport & Performance Psychiatry at Montefiore-Einstein. He trained in Pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and completed a Psychiatry Residency and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center in New York. Dr. Aguilar specializes in the assessment and treatment of psychiatric conditions commonly seen in sports, and uses a unique hybrid of sport psychology and evidence-based talk therapy to help athletes elevate their performance in sport and daily life.
In this inspiring and relatable episode, Evan Wohl chats with Sonie Skogerson, a Budget Blinds franchise owner who turned a leap of faith into a thriving business. Sonie shares how she launched her window treatment company with minimal training, the value of early marketing hustle, and how her love for fabric and design fueled her first projects.
She dives deep into the support system provided by the franchise, including a strong coaching culture that evolves as your business grows. From tackling early challenges like cash flow and closing rates to navigating tariffs and scaling with the help of community and peer groups, Sonie highlights the power of mentorship, consistency, and social media—especially Instagram—as key drivers of success.
This conversation is packed with valuable takeaways for any entrepreneur, especially those navigating franchise ownership, marketing on a budget, and building a referral-based business.
Key takeaways:
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About Our Guest:
Sonie is a veteran of the fashion industry, having spent over 10 years crisscrossing North America and the globe for some of the biggest names in luxury sportswear. She brings her energy, keen eye for quality, design, and detail, and an approachable design style to every personal consultation with Budget Blinds. Sonie is an expert at understanding your needs and helping you express your own individual style without going over your budget. She is a graduate of the Parsons School of Design and has studied at the Fashion Institute of Technology and the London College of Fashion. Sonie owns three Budget Blinds Franchises in Northern New Jersey & has been covering windows for over 12 years. She is a mother of three and an avid downhill skier.
How do you ensure your child’s education savings strategy is truly future-proof?
Join Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl as they dive into education funding strategies beyond the one-size-fits-all solutions. This episode lends insights into using various financial vehicles like 529 plans, UTMA accounts, and whole life insurance, while evaluating their pros and cons.
Iván and Evan discuss:
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Is your medical practice reaping the rewards it deserves?
Listen in as Iván Watanabe hosts Mitch Spolan, founder of Payorology, to explore the intriguing intersection of healthcare and economics. Mitch shares his fascinating career journey from architecture to the Internet, and finally to entrepreneurship—where Payorology was born. Learn how this innovative approach can have a ripple effect, benefiting not just the doctors, but staff and patients as well.
Highlights include:
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About Our Guest:
Mitch Spolan is the Founder and CEO of Payorology, where he helps medical practices optimize their payor contract negotiations by leveraging price transparency data. Through his work, he uncovers significant revenue opportunities by analyzing the current contracted rates of local peer practices, providing healthcare providers with actionable insights for successful negotiations.
Before founding Payorology, Spolan served as EVP of Partnerships at Chegg, Inc., leading business development and sales initiatives across multiple business lines. He also held leadership roles at Yahoo! and LivingSocial, gaining extensive experience in interactive media, sales, and marketing while driving growth and innovation.
Beyond his professional career, Spolan served on the Board of Directors for The Advertising Council, Inc., contributing to impactful public service campaigns. He holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in architecture from the University of Florida.
With a deep passion for supporting healthcare providers and a strong background in sales and marketing, Spolan leads Payorology in delivering value-driven solutions that empower medical practices to thrive.
How can a simple idea transform into a successful business? Evan Wohl sits down with Adam Tesser, co-founder of Ostrich Chairs, to explore the entrepreneurial journey of two friends who turned a honeymoon discomfort into a national brand. In a candid conversation, Adam shares insights into starting a business, handling early challenges, and staying resilient …
Have you ever considered leaving the familiarity of corporate life to pursue a passion that truly fulfills you? What if that leap could transform your perspective on success and personal satisfaction? Evan Wohl chats with Chelsea Thaxter, an executive coach and consultant who traded a decade in corporate law for a journey of connection and …
What does it take to lead an elite team bursting with talent and ambition? Iván Watanabe and Adam Rolewicz dive into the world of leadership and organizational culture with Jeremy Zoll, the new General Manager of the Minnesota Twins. They discuss the challenges and strategies involved in shaping a winning sports team while fostering a …
Join hosts Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl as they reflect on the pivotal moments and key lessons of 2024. From embracing the art of living in the moment to setting the stage for a successful and meaningful 2025, this episode of WealthStyle dives into the power of gratitude, curiosity, and intentional growth. Iván and Evan …
When is the right time for your startup to raise funds and how should you go about it? Managing Partner, Ivan Watanabe welcomes Sinohe Terrero, CFO and COO of Envoy, to explore the current landscape of fundraising for startups. Together, they discuss entrepreneurs’ unique challenges today, share tips on crafting a compelling story for investors, …
Contrary to popular belief, Gen Z isn’t ignoring their financial future. Instead, they’re investing strategically with a digital-first mindset. Evan Wohl sits down with fellow OPUS advisors, Alex Azuaje and Harrison Welsh, to dive into the complex financial habits and expectations of Generation Z. They explore how Gen Z’s experiences with key historical events like …
Estate planning is often seen as one of the more intricate aspects of financial management, particularly for high-net-worth individuals who face distinct challenges and opportunities when it comes to transferring wealth effectively. Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl engage with Joe Biondolillo, president and founder of Biond Financial, to discuss estate planning strategies for high-net-worth individuals. …
Managing Partner and host of WealthStyle, Iván Watanabe sits down with Jessica Sigmund, a Licensed Real Estate Agent to explore the world of Airbnb and real estate investments in the tri-state area. Listen as she shares insights into housing market trends, how to make your real estate investments work for you, and tips on managing …
In the fast-paced world of employment law, staying informed is crucial. With significant changes swirling around non-compete agreements, employers and employees must remain vigilant and prepared. This week Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl sit down with Jim Magner, Head of Thought Leadership for Guardian Business Resource Center (BRC), to explore the FTC ban on non-competes …
As of 2023, only 27% of private-sector employers offer paid parental leave programs. Are you equipped to navigate the rest? In this WealthStyle episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl sit down with Garlande Patz, Head of Absence and Disability Practices at Guardian Life, to cover everything you need to know about maternity leave benefits. You’ll …
With the federal deficit nearing $2 trillion, understanding how these numbers impact your financial future has never been more critical.
Join Evan Wohl as he chats with Jennifer Fox, Vice President of Federal Affairs at Finseca, about the current financial state of the U.S. economy and its political implications. Facing heightened interest rates, substantial federal deficits, and upcoming tax reforms, they explore how these challenges can shape the financial landscape. You will gain insights into the current state of Social Security, Medicare, and strategies to manage long-term care costs, along with understanding the key economic discussions that will influence the 2025 presidential race.
Evan and Jennifer discuss:
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About Jennifer Fox:
Jennifer Fox is the Vice President of Federal Affairs at Finseca. She leads their lobbying initiatives, advocating for policies that support the financial security profession and educating policymakers and their staff on the importance of comprehensive financial planning, encompassing life insurance, retirement planning, and investments, to serve clients effectively.
Jen led Finseca’s political advocacy initiatives, which included the Ambassador Program, fly-ins, and political fundraising, including Finseca’s PAC. She is committed to assisting members in becoming politically involved and empowering them to share their stories.
Jen has spent time at the White House and Capitol Hill, which has helped shape her knowledge of small business, technology, labor, and tax issues. She also serves as the President of The Advocacy Association.
How do you keep your tax records clean and avoid those dreaded IRS audits?
This week, Mike Nulty from Matthews & Nulty, Inc. joins Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl to discuss effective tax strategies for individuals and small business owners. They dive into common mistakes, like poor record-keeping, and provide actionable tips on how to avoid them.
So, tune in and learn how to keep your financial records clean and stay ahead of potential IRS audits!
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About Our Guest:In early 2015, continuing with the firm’s core values, James Matthews made Michael W. Nulty a partner of the firm. Like James, Michael is also a graduate of Saint Peter’s University, in Jersey City, New Jersey.
Before becoming a partner of the firm, Michael spent seven years working under James, polishing his craft in accounting, auditing and tax. Together, James and Michael have a wealth of knowledge and have helped numerous entities both for profit and not for profit, become successful.
In today’s episode of WealthStyle, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl interview Elaine Floyd, Director of Retirement Life Planning at HorsesMouth about the intricacies of our nation’s support systems; Social Security and Medicare.
Listen as Elaine shares her expert knowledge by debunking some common misconceptions and detailing the benefits these programs provide using real-life examples and historical facts.
Whether you’re approaching retirement, caring for a loved one, or simply curious about recent changes and restrictions regarding Social Security and Medicare, this episode is a must-listen!
Gain insight as Elaine discusses:
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With the typical asset division in investment planning being turned on its head, life insurance could be a beneficial alternative option.
How does life insurance fit within portfolio planning?
In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl speak with Bobby Samuelson, Executive Editor at Life Product Review and President of Life Innovators. Together they discuss whole life insurance by exploring the importance of understanding the insurance company and its investment strategies when choosing a whole life policy.
Join the conversation and learn about:
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About Bobby Samuelson:
Bobby co-founded Life Innovators in 2018 and has been President and CEO since its inception. Bobby was formerly Senior Vice President and Head of Life Insurance and Annuity Product Development and Pricing at Brighthouse Financial and Vice President of Life Product Development at MetLife. He is also the Executive Editor of The Life Product Review since 2012. Bobby is a regular keynote speaker at corporate and industry events.
Are you struggling to maintain a routine with your children while juggling the demands of daily life?
You aren’t alone.
This week on the WealthStyle podcast, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl sit down with Dr. Judith Adamo, a Licensed Psychologist who specializes in early childhood development. Throughout their conversation, they explore practical strategies for balancing parenting duties with personal life, especially during stressful situations.
Listen to gain valuable insights and actionable tips for maintaining patience, modifying routines, and fostering independence in your children.
Key points from this episode include:
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About Dr. Judith Adamo:
Dr. Judith Adamo specializes in neuropsychology and psychoanalysis with a particular focus on developmental concerns, as well as parenting. More specifically, emotional dysregulation and/or attentional dysregulation are of particular interest. Helping families at all stages of life navigate the impact of such characteristics is her passion. She is an instructor at WCSPP whose class is entitled “Psychological Problems in Childhood: A Neurodevelopmental Perspective.” Finally, she is the President of the Psychoanalytic Association of WCSPP whose goal is to facilitate the continued education for members of the institute.
Curious about Bitcoin but overwhelmed by the noise? Get ready to unravel the complexities of the world’s most talked-about cryptocurrency.
Evan Wohl and Iván Watanabe invite Chet Schwartz, RICP®, a financial advisor at Strategies for Wealth, to demystify Bitcoin. Chet explains how cryptocurrency works, how it differs from traditional fiat currencies, and key benefits and risks that crypto investors should know about.
Iván, Evan, and Chet discuss:
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About Chet Schwartz
Chet’s purpose is to transform and evolve the conversations people have about their personal finances so he can help them achieve financial balance. By making complex topics understandable and creating a safe, judgment-free forum for his clients to ask questions, Chet helps close the gaps in financial knowledge, serves as an informed sounding board, and uncovers any blind spots that may impact their present and future security. Chet has a “Protection First” philosophy, which means that before he looks at any risk-based investment options, protecting and securing his client’s assets and income is the highest priority. Recognizing that each client’s financial picture is different, it is his responsibility to create a broad, goals-based planning experience tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual or business.
Chet is extremely proud of the difference he has made in his clients’ lives, including business owners, Institutional Wall Street professionals, partners of law firms, and C-level executives. His special areas of expertise include estate planning for high-net-worth individuals and business continuity planning.
Navigating the twists and turns of today’s financial landscape is bound to raise a few questions.
Join Evan Wohl and Iván Watanabe as they delve into some of the most pressing financial queries and scenarios you may be facing in the current environment while highlighting the importance of having a financial advisor to help guide you.
This conversation reflects on today’s real estate market dynamics, and the implications of interest rate changes, and expands into the broader scope of financial planning and investment strategies.
Iván and Evan discuss:
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In this heartfelt conversation, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl open up about the joys and challenges of fatherhood as Iván stands on the cusp of welcoming his second child, a baby boy.
With help from his colleague and friend, Evan, a seasoned parent of three, they explore the emotions, preparations, and adjustments that come with expanding a family. Their conversation is rich with insights, laughter, and love for their children as they offer their perspectives on the transformative experience of parenting.
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As a healthcare professional or proprietor of a healthcare practice, your primary focus is safe and legal patient care. Managing the intricacies of healthcare leaves minimal capacity to navigate the complexities of legal matters.
Understanding the legal side of your business is crucial for protection, which is why we invited Stephanie Rodin, Founder and Attorney at Rodin Legal P.C. back for another episode of WealthStyle.
Join Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl as they sit down with Stephanie to dive deep into the legal aspects of healthcare practice management, covering employment agreements, patient and employee issues, buying and selling practices, and supplying advice to fellow healthcare practitioners.
With her extensive experience and focus on ensuring contracts reflect the specialty and protect the practitioner’s rights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in the healthcare industry.
Iván, Evan, and Stephanie discuss:
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About Stephanie Rodin:
Stephanie Rodin. is the founder and principal of Rodin Legal, P.C. and has been practicing law since 1998, with a majority of that time assisting healthcare professionals.
Starting from a young age, Ms. Rodin has been exposed to the medical/dental field, as her immediate family all practice within the healthcare field. As a result, she was surrounded by various medical and legal issues that routinely arose during the practice of medicine and dentistry. This provided Ms. Rodin with the expertise that serves as the foundation of her legal practice. Rodin Legal, P.C. caters to these legal complexities and is dedicated to the growth of professional practices.
Ms. Rodin received her J.D. from the New England School of Law in Boston, Massachusetts. Before this, she received a B.S. in Accounting from New York University’s Leonard N. Stern School Of Business. She is also admitted to practice law in New York and New Jersey.
What legacy will you leave behind?
In this installment of WealthStyle, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl discuss the concept of legacy planning and note that legacy planning extends beyond financial contributions and weighs heavily on how individuals choose to have an impact on families, communities, and society through intentional actions and forward-thinking strategies.
They highlight Ruth Gossman, a professor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine who provided free tuition for future students, and how her gift will transcend through generations. Plus their conversation showcases personal stories and examples of how they are harnessing the power of legacy in their lives.
Iván and Evan touch on:
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Are you considering a home renovation but feel overwhelmed by the prospect of working with contractors?
You’re not alone.
In this episode, Iván Watanabe, and Evan Wohl speak with the owner and operator of Cyrus Contracting, Marialisa Zywotchenko, or ML for short. During their discussion, ML unravels the often daunting task of working with contractors, provides advice on establishing a trustworthy relationship with your contractor, and why investing in quality should be a priority. Through sharing first-hand experiences, ML illustrates the dangers of falling for misleading sales pitches, underscores the critical role of experienced subcontractors, and the legal importance of permits.
After listening to this episode you will have a clearer understanding of how to approach your next renovation with confidence.
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About Marialisa Zywotchenko:
Marialisa is the owner and operator of Cyrus Contracting. She holds two degrees from New York University in Construction and Real Estate Management. She earned her Associate’s degree from the University of Florida. Marialisa worked for several New York City general contracting firms in numerous roles and previously owned and managed her own painting company.
Marialisa has a passion for fine art and interior design as well as building. Her attention to detail sets Cyrus apart from other contractors in the Manhattan/Westchester competitive market.
The way Marialisa approaches the construction project simplifies the process for clients. She looks at the broad scope of the project and addresses each aspect.
Talking about money can be challenging for couples. It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the emotions, values, and power dynamics that come into play.
In the latest installment of WealthStyle, Evan Wohl and Iván Watanabe are joined by licensed psychotherapist Carmela Bennett. Carmela brings her extensive experience to the table, providing insights into how couples can approach their finances in a way that strengthens, rather than strains, their relationship. She offers tips that encourage couples to engage in regular, stress-free discussions that promote transparency and understanding to lead them to a healthier financial future.
Evan, Iván, and Carmela discuss:
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About Our Guest:
Carmela Bennett, a psychotherapist with 30 years of experience, has run a private practice in NYC since 2016, specializing in relationships, addiction, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and developmental trauma treatment using somatic experiencing. With a Doctorate in Leadership from Columbia University and a Masters in Marriage and Family Counseling, she is also a certified Somatic Experiencing practitioner and holds a CASAC addiction specialist certification.
In addition to her therapeutic work, Dr. Bennett internationally coaches executives, organizations, and universities, integrating her two decades of experience in human development. Her expertise lies in creating individualized plans for expanding strategic leadership capacities, developing emotional intelligence, and enhancing communication skills, especially under stress and conflict.
Carmela’s lifelong involvement in expressive arts, particularly dance and movement, shapes her passion for integrating creativity into her work, reflecting her focused, intuitive, and creative approach to life.
Are you looking to sell your home and need insight into the current market?
Want to know what potential buyers are looking for and what you can do to attract them?
If you’re ready to list your house, make listening to this episode your first to-do!
Join our host Evan Wohl and his guest Scott Shuman, COO of The Sue Adler Team as they discuss the ever-changing real estate landscape. They hone in on how the pandemic and the shift in work habits are nudging folks from the hustle and bustle of city life to the quieter suburbs, and why you might want to hang on to your property as a source of income.
Should you stay or go?
Find out as this episode highlights:
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About Our Guest:
Scott Shuman, Morristown, grew up in Chatham and has been with The Sue Adler Team since 2010. Scott spearheads all of the team’s operations, and in a nutshell, is responsible for ensuring that the Sue Adler Team runs efficiently and effectively, with client service always at the forefront, creating the best possible experience for our clients. If you have a conversation with Scott, it will instantly become clear how passionate he is about the real estate industry – he is one of the rare people (besides Sue), who got his real estate license as soon as he turned 18! Scott has had his hand in almost every role in the industry from working with buyers and sellers to transaction management, to lead conversion to SEO and online marketing and everything in between.
As 2023 came to a close, WealthStyle unlocked a major milestone: 10,000 downloads!
Many thanks go to you, our listening audience for tuning in and sharing your favorite episodes with others. OPUS’ mantra is ‘always forward’ and with your loyalty, we are doing just that!
Today, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl highlight their favorite episodes from 2023, including the most-listened-to episodes from the year. They also share the most downloaded releases since WealthStyle launched in 2020.
Revisit fan favorites, or discover new topics and experts for the first time as Iván and Evan highlight WealthStyle episodes that have contributed to reaching 10,000 downloads.
Notable Episodes:
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Just days before Christmas, Evan Wohl and Iván Watanabe embraced the spirit of the holidays by reminiscing about their childhoods, traditions they’ve carried forth with their families, and the best and worst gifts they’ve either given or received.
This light-hearted and fun episode gives you an insider look at the lives and personalities of the hosts of WealthStyle. Join them as they celebrate the season, all while highlighting the significance of gratitude.
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Have you considered including covered calls and collars in your investment strategy? What options should you consider when looking at contracts for buying and selling investments?
Tune in as Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl speak with Andrew McCall, regional consultant at SpiderRock Advisors. Andrew walks through some savvy options strategies, like covered calls and collars, that can help balance out the risks and tax implications while you’re working on diversifying your investment portfolio.
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Are you looking at buying or leasing a car in the near future? Understanding the questions to consider could make the road a bit smoother for your purchase.
In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl are joined by Alfonso Ruggiero, a former Audi sales executive to delve into the intricacies of purchasing or leasing a vehicle. Listen as Alfonso offers valuable insights into the negotiation process, the significance of comprehending lease terms, and the various fees associated with such transactions.
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Considering Indexed Universal Life Insurance (IUL) but still trying to figure out where to start?
You aren’t alone.
Social media has promoted its benefits but also some misconceptions which can lead to confusion.
In this episode of WealthStyle, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl are joined by Bobby Samuelson, Executive Editor at Life Product Review and President of Life Innovators for part two of this Life Insurance mini-series.
Join the conversation to get a better understanding of:
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About Bobby Samuelson:
Bobby co-founded Life Innovators in 2018 and has been President and CEO since its inception. Bobby was formerly Senior Vice President and Head of Life Insurance and Annuity Product Development and Pricing at Brighthouse Financial and Vice President of Life Product Development at MetLife. He is also the Executive Editor of The Life Product Review since 2012. Bobby is a regular keynote speaker at corporate and industry events.
With the typical asset division in investment planning being turned on its head, life insurance could be a beneficial alternative option. How does life insurance fit within portfolio planning? In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl speak with Bobby Samuelson, Executive Editor at Life Product Review and President of Life Innovators. Together they discuss …
For some people, a watch is simply a functional piece of technology that tells them the time. Perhaps it informs them of the weather, their daily step count, and could also remind them to take medication. And then there are people like WealthStyle’s host, Iván Watanabe, who considers watches to be a work of art …
Predicting the future is something that many people expect investment and wealth advisors to do, especially when it comes to fluctuations within the market. Join Evan Wohl and Rob Pruett from OPUS Private Client, LLC, for a candid discussion surrounding the current market dynamics and how advisors can help clients create flexible plans based on …
Being a working parent adds another level of complexity to raising a child. Whether you are a solo parent who works full-time or a parenting duo with demanding jobs, juggling your career alongside childcare is tough. In today’s episode of WealthStyle, we dive headfirst into the intricate world of modern childcare to help ease feelings …
In today’s episode of WealthStyle, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl interview Elaine Floyd, Director of Retirement Life Planning at HorsesMouth about the intricacies of our nation’s support systems; Social Security and Medicare. Listen as Elaine shares her expert knowledge by debunking some common misconceptions and detailing the benefits these programs provide using real-life examples and …
With technology accessing every aspect of life, protecting yourself and your family is more important than ever. How can you prevent hackers from stealing your personal information? In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl are joined by Mark Cole, a digital forensic investigator, in discussing the what, where, when, and how of hackers trying …
Conversations are at the heart of effective leadership. In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl speak with Chalmers Brothers, best-selling author, and certified personal/executive coach, on the role of conversation within business and leadership development. Chalmers shares his experience helping business owners take their everyday tasks to the next level through effective communication and …
Do you recognize yourself when you imagine who you’ll be in the future? Or does it feel like you’re looking at a stranger? In this episode of WealthStyle, Evan Wohl speaks with Hal Hershfield, professor of psychology, marketing, and behavioral decision-making at UCLA’s Anderson School of Management on why it is so hard for most …
When building a retirement plan, you need to look beyond your individual accounts. How will each type of account save you money? How will they protect your retirement income from high tax rates? In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl focus on asset allocation and what needs to be considered when creating retirement income … Continue reading Tax Strategies for Financial and Retirement Planning →
Everyone wants to be healthy and exercise, but it’s a chore to find time and energy to complete the list of activities at the gym. How can you maintain consistency when it comes to reaching health goals? In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl interview Gideon Akande, an elite fitness coach and consultant, about … Continue reading How to Stay on Top of Your Fitness Goals with Gideon Akande →
What goes into a successful investment deal? Money? Time? Information? Find out how you can invest with confidence in this episode of WealthStyle where Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl sit down with Russ Carpentieri, Managing Director at OPUS Private Client, LLC to explore their personal insights, practical tips and real-life examples of how you can … Continue reading An Eye on Investments with Russ Carpentieri →
What’s the secret to a happy retirement? If you want to enjoy your retirement to the fullest, you must have a sense of purpose and guaranteed income for the rest of your life. That way, you have something to look forward to every day, without the fear of running out of money! In this episode … Continue reading Guaranteed Income for a Happy Retirement with Tom Hegna →
How can you help your child(ren) be responsible, humble, and respectful? What are the necessary skills required to teach life-long behaviors? In today’s episode of WealthStyle, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl learn a few parenting tactics that helped their fellow colleague Russ Carpentieri raise well-rounded, independent children. Listen in as Russ shares his experience as … Continue reading Teaching Gratitude and Generosity in an Affluent Home →
Buying a home may seem like the right thing to do, but is it?
There are many factors to consider before you purchase a home, and the most obvious is, can you afford the mortgage payments? Then on top of that, there are annual property taxes and monthly utilities like gas and electricity. And don’t forget about the less obvious expenses like furniture and decor, and unexpected repairs or upgrades.
The reality is, it requires a lot of financial planning before you put an offer on a house.
In this episode of WealthStyle, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl explore the different reasons why their clients want to buy houses, how the costs associated with owning a home factor into financial and retirement planning, and how much the housing market has changed post-pandemic.
Iván and Evan discuss:
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How can you maximize your vacation and travel experience before you even leave the country?
In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl are joined by Rob Karp, founder and CEO, and Henry Kamp, head of Air Sales and Operations at MilesAhead, in sharing their knowledge of the travel industry and how to gain the most from your flight experience.
Rob and Henry discuss:
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About Our Guests:
Rob Karp is the Founder and CEO of MilesAhead. A graduate of Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration (‘19), Rob was named one of Travel + Leisure’s International Rising Stars in 2017 and a finalist for Virtuoso’s Rising Star award in 2019. Rob first founded MilesAhead as a sophomore in high school, initially helping family and friends efficiently use their frequent flyer miles for plane tickets. Over time, MilesAhead has evolved into a full-scale luxury hospitality company that works with a discerning group of clients.
As the Head of Air Sales and Operations, Henry Kamp ensures that all of our clients’ journeys are as pleasant as the destination. Although Henry focuses primarily on air travel, he plays a pivotal role in all travel bookings, handling everything from finding last-minute rental cars to identifying the perfect hotel.
Company equity grants are a tried and true way for businesses to provide investment opportunities to their employees, and as a way to incentivize and reward their loyalty. Plus, equity grants can be a cost-effective way for companies to compensate employees, and provide a sense of ownership by giving them a stake in the company’s success.
In this episode of WealthStyle, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl talk with Alejandro Azuaje, an investment specialist with OPUS Private Client, LLC about three main types of equity grants and how they are taxed from an employee perspective.
Listen in and learn as Alex discusses:
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About Our Guest:
Alejandro Azuaje is an associate and investment specialist at Opus Private Client, LLC. After graduating from college, Alejandro entered the financial planning industry. He joined Opus in 2017 and is elated to be working for a team that believes in holistic planning and executes its recommendations with efficiency and ease. Alejandro’s specialties are in financial planning analysis, financial modeling, and equity investments. He is a Westchester native from Purchase, NY, and an Alumnus of New York University with a bachelor’s degree in computer science.
The Secure Act was one of the most significant systemic rewrites of retirement planning in recent history. These changes created opportunities for all ages, from young adults just out of college to individuals just starting retirement.
In this episode, Evan Wohl speaks with Joshua Caron, Vice President of Federal Affairs at Finseca, on the Secure Act, how it changed retirement planning, and the individual aspects of the Secure Act 1.0 and 2.0.
Josh discusses:
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About Josh Caron:
Joshua Caron is the Vice President of Federal Affairs for Finseca. Originally from Massachusetts, he attended Arizona State University for both his undergraduate and graduate degrees. His primary role is to advocate for policies that allow for more Americans to live financially secure lives with a focus on the advanced markets.
Prior to joining Finseca, he worked for several political campaigns, including those former President Barack Obama and former Congressman Harry Mitchell (D-AZ). He lives with his wife, daughter, and chocolate lab in St. Anthony Park, St. Paul MN.
About Evan Wohl:
Evan’s clients trust him with the responsibility to guide them through the complexities of personal finance. He provides clarity and insight on how to measure and improve your cash flow as well as whether or not you are on track to accomplish your various financial goals. The firm takes a macroeconomic approach to planning and coordinates all of your financial decisions through the use of a comprehensive economic model.
Evan’s wife, Laurie, and he have three children, Quinn, Parker and Bodie. He currently sits on the board of The Hope Gala. The Hope Gala was created to support fundraising efforts on behalf of The Four Diamonds Fund and The Penn State Dance Marathon (THON). The Hope Gala contributes to the mission of conquering childhood cancer. All proceeds benefit pediatric cancer patients at the Penn State Children’s Hospital and their families in need of financial aid, medical assistance, and emotional support.
AI technology has started to enter the workplace as a writing tool and information chatbot. How will this technology impact future generations’ business planning and workflow?
In this episode, George Papanicolaou is joined by Chris Ward, CRO at The Publishing Desk, on AI technology in the workplace, specifically tools like ChatGPT.
Listen in as they discuss how AI could affect society, their experience with using AI, and how they envision the impact of artificial intelligence as it progresses.
George and Chris touch on:
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About Our Guest:
Christopher Ward, Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer of The Publisher Desk, a full-service technology and monetization platform for content publishers. He got his start in advertising and publishing in 2007 at News Corp and later at Undertone, an advertising network. In November 2019, the Publisher Desk acquired Sportsnaut.com, doubling down on their belief in the future of sports marketing.
About Our Host:
George has a very unique background and work history. Broad, diverse, and driven by integrity and strong family values, his experiences create the perfect foundation for teaming up with clients to protect, build, and enjoy their financial world.
George puts a strong emphasis on family. His parents and grandparents ran a very successful flower business with several locations in Westchester County, in addition to owning and managing commercial and residential real estate. From a young age, George was taught that compassion, good customer service, and a strong work ethic were key components to the longevity of a business.
George credits his significant business success to his strong work ethic and desire to learn— two qualities that have helped him earn several leadership awards. George’s interest in real estate contributes to his ability to help clients diversify their holdings.
George is married with four children, two dogs, and a bunny. He and his wife live in Pleasantville, NY. They are huge lovers of food and culture and enjoy travelling and entertaining at their home.
Landing yourself the job of your dreams usually requires a lot more than just having the prettiest resume.
In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl talk with John P. Davis, best selling author and Sales Director at Onestream Software, about how you can land a job in sales that will allow you to “control your own destiny”.
John discusses:
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About John P. Davis:
While the majority of his education is in economics and philosophy, his passion is software sales. This has become John’s focus over the past decade. He enjoys helping people set up business cases, build project teams, determine delivery methods and procure software that benefits their organization. Today, he is proud to run an Enterprise and Mid-Market sales team in Eastern Canada at OneStream Software.
Two years ago, John published a book titled, “How to Get a Sales Job.” The book serves as an affordable tool for anyone looking for a software sales job and is based on his own transition into sales from the world of finance. Mark Cuban provided a quote for the book and at one point, it was ranked #1 in Job Markets & Advice internationally.
Real estate investment is a balance between finding the right financial opportunity, and a unique, desirable location. How can you build real estate investments in a rising interest rate environment?
In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl speak with Jon Minkoff, co-founder, CFO, COO, CIO of ASH NYC, on real estate investment for individual investors, what to consider when entering the current economic market, and how investors view property from a buyer, seller or investment perspective.
Jon discusses:
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About Jon Minkoff:
Real estate professional with experience working with start-up real estate development private equity funds. Jon has experience in all aspects of real estate including finance, development, financial forecasting, construction, estimating, property management, as well as commercial leasing. He has also spent time working with high-net-worth individuals to analyze and manage different real estate acquisition opportunities.
Retirement income relies solely on the investments and savings created while you still have a paycheck. Leveraging the right tools can decrease the amount loss from market volatility, while keeping you afloat.
In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl are joined by Dr. Wade Pfau, Ph.D, CFA, RICP, founder of Retirement Researcher, and professor at The American College of Financial Services, to discuss some of the research behind retirement planning, and how to increase security around your retirement funds.
Iván, Evan and Wade discuss:
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About Dr. Wade Pfau:
Dr. Wade D. Pfau, Ph.D., is a Professor of Retirement Income in the Ph.D. in Financial and Retirement Planning program, Co-Director of the American College Center for Retirement Income, and RICP® program director at The American College of Financial Services.
Dr. Pfau is a co-editor of the Journal of Personal Finance. He has spoken at national conferences of organizations for financial professionals, such as the CFA Institute, FPA, NAPFA, AICPA-PFP, and AFS. He also publishes frequently in a wide variety of academic and practitioner research journals.
This podcast is for informational purposes only and is intended for general public use. By providing this content, Park Avenue Securities LLC and your financial representative are not undertaking to provide investment advice or make a recommendation for a specific individual or situation, or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Life insurance is intended to provide death benefit protection for an individual’s entire life. With payment of the required guaranteed premiums, you may receive a guaranteed death benefit and guaranteed cash values inside the policy. Guarantees are based on the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. Dividends are not guaranteed and are declared annually by the issuing insurance company’s board of directors. Any loans or withdrawals reduce the policy’s death benefits and cash values and affect the policy’s dividend and guarantees. Whole life insurance should be considered for its long-term value. Early cash value accumulation and early payment of dividends depend upon policy type and/or policy design, and cash value accumulation is offset by insurance and company expenses. Consult with your representative and refer to your life insurance illustration for more information about any particular life insurance policy. J Wade Pfau and his firm are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Opus Private Client and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. Iván Watanabe & Evan Wohl are Registered Representatives and Financial Advisors of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. Opus Private Client, LLC is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. Opus Private Client, LLC is not registered in any state or with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as a Registered Investment Advisor. Ivan’s California insurance license 0H44206. Compliance Approval 2022-146037, Expires August 2024.
Remember being a kid and the joy you felt making the biggest snowman from just three small snowballs? Watching those little snowballs getting bigger and bigger with each roll… As an adult, the experience changes from creating snowmen to generating compound interest. In this episode, Iván Watanabe welcomes colleague Evan Wohl to dive deeper into … Continue reading Compound Interest is a Snowball with Evan Wohl →
In September of 2021, the NCAA allowed a ruling that unlocked college athletes from getting compensation for the first time in history. How will this change the relationship between student athletes, sponsoring companies, and their fans? In this episode, George Papanicolaou speaks with Chris Ward, CRO of The Publisher Desk, on the NIL rule and … Continue reading The NIL Rule In Student Athlete Profitability with Chris Ward →
Life is always changing and as a result so will your cash flow. In this episode, Iván Watanabe sits down with experienced financial planner Evan Wohl to discuss cash flow and some real-world applications you can use to keep balanced. Evan will talk more about his process, why it’s important to update and analyze your … Continue reading The Fundamental Pieces to Managing Cash Flow with Evan Wohl →
How will Biden’s plans impact student debt? With the suspension of interest rates and repayment on student loans about to be lifted, creating a student debt payment plan is an essential part of financial planning. In this episode, Iván Watanabe is joined by Joe McGrath, Senior Business Development Associate at Gradfin. Together they dive into … Continue reading Student Loan Repayment Updates with Joe McGrath →
If you want to donate to a charitable organization, it’s important to know your options. In this episode, Iván Watanabe is joined by Jen Mayo, the director of gift planning and advisor relations at Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF). Jen explains how with a donor-advised fund, you can give more to your charity of choice … Continue reading Optimizing Your Charitable Contributions Without The Stress with Jen Mayo →
Despite many individuals experiencing disability firsthand, the topic is not talked about nearly enough by non-disabled individuals. This leads to misconceptions and uncertainty around how to start these types of conversations. In this episode, Iván Watanabe is joined by Dani Izzie, a social media manager at Spinergy Inc, disabilities advocate, and a proud mother of … Continue reading Navigating A Disability with Dani Izzie →
Social media has become a tool for people of all ages and walks of life — from young children to businesses. When it comes to business, effective social media practices can provide increased outreach to potential clients. This week, Iván Watanabe is joined by Mike Manzi, sales coach and founder of MM Sales Consulting. Mike … Continue reading Expanding Your Influence Through Usable Social Media Content with Mike Manzi →
Like many Americans, Iván Watanabe is a descendant of immigrants. He was born to a Venezuelan mother and a Japanese father, with an extended family on both sides. With the majority of his maternal family forced to leave Venezuela and his father’s family still living in Japan, Iván’s family grants him a unique insight as … Continue reading Financial Planning for Immigrant Families with Dr. Daniel Crosby →
Even if you’re one of the over 50% of Americans who doesn’t enjoy planning for their death, starting a plan today will allow your beneficiaries to avoid the challenges caused by a lack of information and preparation. In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Rob Pruett dive into one of the most important topics in financial … Continue reading What You Should Know About Assets After Death with Rob Pruett →
After severing oil trade with Russia, President Biden plans to increase U.S. oil production from 11.8 million barrels to 12.8 million. In the short-term, this will provide gas for individuals and farmers. However, the long-term outlook remains uncertain. In this episode, Iván Watanabe & George Papanicolaou join Nikolaos Kontos, head of operations at Concord Maritime. … Continue reading A Conversation Around Global Oil and Gas with Nikolaos Kontos →
After maintaining steady inflation of just under 2% for over a decade, America is now seeing the highest inflation rates since the late 1980s. In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Rob Pruett explore the rising interest rates and inflation faced by consumers and businesses. They dive into the state of the economy while revealing ways … Continue reading The New 1980s Inflation with Rob Pruett →
You could read every article and mommy blog and still remain unprepared for the experience of parenthood. Who better to hear from on the topic of financial planning and children than financial advisors who have kids? In this episode, Iván Watanabe and George Papanicolaou recount their personal experiences with fatherhood, diving into the difference between … Continue reading Planning for Parenthood with George Papanicolaou →
Do you have a plan in place if you lose some of your key employees? What if you could no longer afford to maintain your key employees and business due to taxes? Preparing for any of these scenarios is imperative for all business owners. In this episode, Iván Watanabe is joined by Jeremy Suarez, managing … Continue reading Tactical Practices For Business Estate Taxes With Jeremy Suarez and Michael Canarick →
When reviewing your health care benefit plan options, do you have the right information to make the best choice for you? In this episode, Iván Watanabe sits down with OPUS PC’s benefits consultant, Stefan Carpentieri. Stefan explains everything you need to know about health insurance and employee benefits to help you select the optimal coverage. … Continue reading The World of Health Care Benefit Plans With Stefan Carpentieri →
Company benefits come in many shapes and sizes. One major way some employees are being compensated today is through equity awards. This is a benefit that is bigger than it appears and is one business owners and employees should take note of. In this episode, Iván Watanabe welcomes Alejandro Azuaje, an investment specialist with OPUS … Continue reading The Benefits of Equity Awards With Alejandro Azuaje →
Moving for work or a new venture can be exciting. But new taxes you may be paying less so. In this episode, the chairman and partner of Hodgson Russ LLP, Mark Klein, joins Iván Watanabe and Russ Carpentieri to discuss the true cost of moving states. Mark explains taxes and auditors when moving, and answers … Continue reading What to Know About Moving Across State Lines With Mark Klein →
Over the past eighteen months, our understanding of work as employers and employees has changed dramatically. But that doesn’t mean you can’t build the career you’ve been looking for. In this episode, Julie Harnik, a leadership coach focused on helping individuals and teams maximize their potential, joins Iván Watanabe. Julie discusses how the pandemic has … Continue reading Supercharge Your Career With Julie Harnik →
There’s nothing like the peace of mind that comes with having a strategic and comprehensive plan for your future. This is especially true when it comes to your estate plan. In this episode, Canarick & Canarick’s founder and estate planning attorney, Michael Canarick, sits down with Iván Watanabe to discuss the value of having an … Continue reading A Conversation Around Estate Planning & Taxes with Michael Canarick →
When Platinum Premier Global Equity looks to invest, it looks for ways it can help improve its local communities. In this episode, Platinum Premier’s Zameer Upadhya and Chris Chambers join Iván Watanabe to share how the company is working to help people across the United States (and the world) invest in commercial real estate. They … Continue reading Bringing People & Communities into Commercial Real Estate with Zameer Upadhya & Chris Chambers →
New Jersey financial consulting firm Tomoro LLC possesses a distinct ability to manage business owners’ financial choices in a way that will help them reach their desired long-term wealth goals. How do they do it? Find out in this episode, as the firm’s managing partner and director of financial planning, Jeremy Suarez, introduces Tomoro’s role … Continue reading Must-Know Business Exit Planning Considerations With Jeremy Suarez →
With summer just around the corner and vaccination rollouts ramping up, some countries are starting to lift their restrictions, and slowly but surely, the travel world is beginning to return. In this episode, MilesAhead’s CEO and founder, Rob Karp, sits down with Iván Watanabe to explain his travel agency’s approach to travel resumption and to … Continue reading Resuming Air Travel in the Era of COVID-19 With MilesAhead – With Rob Karp →
Bajraktari Realty Management is a multifaceted company that owns and operates over 70 buildings throughout the Bronx, Manhattan, and Yonkers area. After spending over 25 years servicing the New York real estate market, they have learned a thing or two about residential and commercial real estate. Today, Bajraktari Realty’s Florim and Gani Bajraktari join Iván … Continue reading Bajraktari Realty’s Diverse Real Estate Approach — With George Papanicolaou, Florim, and Gani Bajraktari →
Getting a mortgage for your new home shouldn’t drain the joy out of accomplishing a lifelong goal. That’s why Cardinal Financial Company works to create a better mortgage experience so that your home buying process is simple and easy to navigate. Today, Iván Watanabe sits down with the firm’s loan originator, Pat Tobin. Pat breaks … Continue reading Navigating the World of Mortgages — With Pat Tobin →
It’s never too early to start planning for your Medicare coverage. If you’re ready to start thinking about your coverage, join Iván Watanabe in this informative episode as he sits down with Opus PC’s resident Medicare expert, Jim Ryan. They break down everything you need to know to understand the many parts of Medicare, including … Continue reading What You Need to Know About Medicare — With Jim Ryan →
Kaplan Mobray is not only a best-selling author, but is also one of the world’s most dynamic and inspirational business speakers. Now, you have the chance to learn some of Kaplan’s expert insight around designing your next phase of life! In this episode, join Kaplan and Iván Watanabe as they discuss how Kaplan transforms lives … Continue reading Designing Your Next Phase of Life: Retirement — With Kaplan Mobray →
Are you someone who has applied, or is planning to apply, for a student loan? Then this is an episode you won’t want to miss! To bring you greater clarity around student loans, Iván Watanabe sits down with GradFin’s senior business development associate Joe McGrath for today’s episode. Joe explains GradFin’s role around applying, refinancing, … Continue reading Navigating the Student Loan Marketplace — With Joe McGrath →
How can you plan for the retirement you desire when there are many uncertainties that could impact it, like new economic and legislative changes? Find out in this episode, as Iván Watanabe joins Rob Pruett to explore a fifth and final retirement threat, legislative and economic changes. Rob discusses how proactive planning can help address … Continue reading Retirement Threats — Part 5 — With Rob Pruett →
Our lifestyle plays a major role in defining our standard of living. It also impacts how we envision our retirements. That’s why, along with the financial, it’s important to consider lifestyle planning as part of your retirement planning process. In this episode, Iván Watanabe chats with Russell Carpentieri about the lifestyle component of retirement planning. … Continue reading Retirement Threats — Part 4 — With Russell Carpentieri →
Technology is constantly evolving. While technological improvements enhance our lives in many ways, its progress could also present threats to your retirement. How? Discover the answer in this episode, as Iván Watanabe sits down with George Papanicolaou to explore technology as a retirement threat. George reveals must-know cybersecurity and technology tips and tricks for retirees … Continue reading Retirement Threats — Part 3 — With George Papanicolaou →
While most people know that the market can impact the value of their portfolio, not everybody realizes that other elements, like the sequence in which you withdraw from your investments, can also impact your portfolio’s value. In part 2 of our retirement threats mini-series, Iván Watanabe chats with Adam Rolewicz about the sequence of returns … Continue reading Retirement Threats — Part 2 — With Adam Rolewicz →
What concerns you most when it comes to your retirement? Today, we launch a new five-part mini-series on retirement threats and how Opus Private Client helps clients avoid them through our WealthStyle planning process. In part one, join Iván Watanabe and Lou Mohn as they explore health, lifestyle, and financial planning as areas of concern … Continue reading Retirement Threats — Part 1 — With Lou Mohn →
While we work hard to provide financial security for our children, it’s still important that we set them up for success by guiding them towards the right financial mindsets and behaviors. In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Lou Mohn explore ways we can teach our kids crucial financial lessons — even when they’re raised in … Continue reading Instilling Work Ethic & Charity Within a Financially Advantaged Family →
Are you ready to drive your golf game to the next level? If so, tee up this episode of the WealthStyle Podcast and get ready to learn from Tom Patri himself! As one of the top 100 golf teachers in America, Tom joins Russ Carpentieri to share actionable tips that amateur golfers can use to … Continue reading How to Take Your Golf Game to the Next Level — With Tom Patri →
Are you a wine lover? Or, do you not know much about wine, but want to discover more about it? If so, then this episode is for you! Today, Iván Watanabe joins wine expert and certified sommelier, Sarah Tracey. To help you learn everything you need to know about wine, Sarah shares everything from her … Continue reading From Collecting Wine to Virtual Tastings: Wine 101 — With Sarah Tracey →
Over the past several months, COVID-19 has left more people than ever questioning how they can protect their income. To help you better understand your options, Iván Watanabe explores the value of disability insurance in today’s episode. In this information-packed episode, Iván dives into the value of this type of insurance and what you need … Continue reading How to Protect Your Income with Disability Insurance →
As a new physician, how can you ensure that you’re protected as an employee? This is something Stephanie Rodin and the Rodin Legal team help physicians with each and every day. In this episode, Stephanie joins Iván Watanabe to break down the special considerations healthcare practitioners should keep in mind with their contracts. Stephanie reveals … Continue reading What to Consider When Reviewing Your Attending Physician Contract — With Stephanie J. Rodin, Esq. →
As an Opus Private Client planner and partner, Lou Mohn provides clients with personalized comprehensive financial planning by drawing not only on his knowledge and expertise, but also on his first-hand experience in working with Opus PC as a client himself. Today, Lou joins Iván Watanabe to share his experience of working with Opus PC … Continue reading What it’s Like Working With Opus Private Client →
With the presidential election just around the corner and the COVID-19 crisis continuing on, 2020 has brought a time of uncertainty for many investors. To explore our current environment and the investment planning that should go along with it, Iván Watanabe joins Robert Pruett in today’s episode. Robert shares what has been happening as a … Continue reading From the Election to COVID-19: Investing in Today’s Environment →
When it comes to the physical and economic impact of COVID-19, many are questioning what our future could look like, especially from a policy standpoint. To explore this question, Iván Watanabe joins Joshua Caron for today’s episode. As the vice president of legislative affairs at AALU & GAMA, Joshua shares his insight into the government’s … Continue reading COVID-19: What’s Happening on the Hill? — With Joshua Caron →
Have you created your will yet? If not, what will happen to your assets when you pass away? In this episode, OPUS Private Client senior founder Michael Perry joins Anthony Enea, an elder law attorney with years of experience with elder law, wills, trusts and estates, asset protection, and special needs planning. Today, Anthony shares … Continue reading Wills & Trusts: Managing Assets After Death — With Anthony J. Enea →
With the pandemic precautions, returning to school is a concerning issue for many parents. What will their children’s education look like throughout the 2020-2021 school year? In this episode, Ivan Watanabe is joined by OPUS partner George Papanicolaou and educational consultant Elaine Avinoam. Elaine shares her insight into the changes to schooling due to COVID-19 … Continue reading How Will Socially-Distant Schooling Work? →
Are you getting the most out of your company benefits? In this episode, Russ Carpentieri and Iván Watanabe encourage you to stop leaving company benefits on the table and start using them. Find out which benefits people overlook the most, why people don’t enroll for good benefits, and, most importantly, how to start using benefits … Continue reading How to Start Using the Most Overlooked Corporate Benefits →
As your life changes, so will your financial planning needs. One major transition that can shift your financial picture is starting a family. But what should you consider around your financial planning when it comes to starting your family? Today, Iván Watanabe joins OPUS Private Client’s George Papanicolaou to discuss financial planning considerations for young … Continue reading Financial Planning Considerations for Young Families →
A lot has changed over the years, including our lifespans, goals, and view of what makes the perfect retirement. How is financial planning adapting to this changing landscape? To examine some of these changes, Iván Watanabe joins wealth advisor Rob Pruett for today’s episode. Together, they discuss the effect COVID-19 has had on retirees and … Continue reading Our New Normal: How the Retirement Landscape has Changed — With Rob Pruett →
Over the years, Russ Carpentieri and Iván Watanabe have noticed that clients who have the greatest level of financial success and personal satisfaction share very common behaviors and qualities. Today, Russ and Iván delve into these common characteristics, how they ultimately impact the planning process, and how clients move forward with their wealth, lifestyle, and … Continue reading What the Top Opus Clients Have in Common →
Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Wealth Style podcast! In this debut episode, get to know your hosts, Russell Carpentieri and Iván Watanabe, and the work they do to help clients at Opus Private Client move their wealth, purpose, and lifestyle forward with clarity and confidence. In this episode, you’ll learn: What drove Russell … Continue reading Meet Your Hosts, Russell Carpentieri and Iván Watanabe →