Tag: Maximizing Outcomes

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The Art of College Planning (Pt. 2) (Ep. 38)

The Art of College Planning (Pt. 2) (Ep. 38)

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Ever wondered how the FAFSA form could unlock hidden college funding?

Chart the unknown territories of college funding where host Jim McGovern unlocks the mysteries of the FAFSA form and beyond. Tailored for families on the journey of college financial planning, Jim reveals expert tactics for leveraging the FAFSA and unveils a treasure trove of funding strategies.

Key discussion points include:

  • Discover the latest shifts, key filing dates, eligibility secrets, and annual must-dos
  • Learn precise reporting, understand financial changes, and harness the Data Retrieval Tool
  • Insights on assets exempt from FAFSA and why all families should apply
  • Strategies for diverse family structures, including divorced parents and business owners
  • Insider tips on asset positioning and FAFSA reporting essentials
  • Dive into 529 plans, permanent life insurance, and Roth IRAs for college financing
  • And much more!

Resources:

Connect with McGovern Wealth Group:

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How To Survive Soaring College Costs (Ep. 37)

How To Survive Soaring College Costs (Ep. 37)

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From the moment a child is born, the talk about saving for college begins. But the burning question remains: Is the soaring cost of college worth it?

Navigate the intricate world of college planning with Jim McGovern in this compelling episode of Maximizing Outcomes as he dives into the complexities of college financing. This insightful discussion offers parents and students essential strategies for managing the escalating costs of higher education. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complexities of education and career choices.

Key discussion points include:

  • Exploring how education level impacts income and the financial perks of higher education
  • Examining the impact of soaring tuition on students working their way through college
  • Comparing costs and planning for public vs. private college education
  • Breaking down the PEGS strategy for smarter college planning
  • Highlighting early planning and smart cost negotiation for college
  • Exploring the differences between need-based and merit-based aid
  • Discussing community colleges and credit transfers as ways to cut college costs
  • And much more!

Resources:

Connect with McGovern Wealth Group:

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Philanthropy Unboxed: Smarter Ways to Make a Lasting Difference with Kate McKenzie, CAP® (Ep. 36)

Philanthropy Unboxed: Smarter Ways to Make a Lasting Difference with Kate McKenzie, CAP® (Ep. 36)

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How can you make a lasting impact on the causes you care about most? Find out how to create a philanthropic plan that can span generations while also helping to pass on your values to your kids and grandkids. 

Join host Jim McGovern as he sits down with Kate McKenzie, the Senior Director of Development at The Pittsburgh Foundation. They open the charitable giving toolbox and unveil lesser-known paths to philanthropy. From simply writing checks to establishing a donor-advised fund, a charitable trust, or a private foundation, this episode will reshape how you view giving.

In this engaging episode, Jim and Kate discuss:

  • Why higher income and higher net worth families are motivated to be philanthropic.
  • How to incorporate charitable giving strategies as your net worth grows.
  • The transformative potential of Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) in legacy planning
  • How to optimize tax benefits and retirement planning for greater charitable influence
  • Innovative ways to use your IRA or life insurance for charitable causes
  • Why philanthropic planning should involve your team of professionals
  • And plenty more insights!

Connect with McGovern Wealth Group:

Connect with Kate McKenzie:

About Kate McKenzie:

Kate has cultivated relationships with donors and their advisors, understanding how important the value of trust is when individuals and families are making current gifts or setting up legacy plans. She is trained in the 21/64 methodology for facilitating multigenerational meetings with families to define and implement their philanthropic goals. Kate works with trusted advisors to help donors meet their charitable goals and has spoken at numerous national and regional conferences about innovative methods for bringing professional advisors and clients together to develop charitable giving strategies.

Before joining the Foundation, Kate worked in higher education, with part of her focus on raising major gifts, specifically endowed scholarships. She earned her doctorate in information systems and communications. Her research explored fundraisers’ perceptions of social and professional media for prospect research purposes. She has a Master of Science in organizational leadership from Robert Morris University and a Bachelor of Arts in public relations from Westminster College. Kate is a graduate of Leadership Pittsburgh Inc.’s Leadership Development Initiative Class XXIII and is also a member of boards of HEARTH and the Estate Planning Council of Pittsburgh. Kate is a life-long athlete, a five-time marathoner and a mom.

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What are Qualified Opportunity Zones? with Ray DeSantis of Redbrick LMD (Ep. 34)

What are Qualified Opportunity Zones? with Ray DeSantis of Redbrick LMD (Ep. 34)

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Are you facing a significant capital gain but looking for ways to potentially reduce the tax burden? Tune into this episode to learn about a bipartisan initiative that aims to stimulate economic growth in distressed communities and provide tax incentives to investors that meet certain requirements.

In this intriguing episode, host Jim McGovern invites Ray DeSantis, Managing Director of Capital Markets at Redbrick LMD, to unpack the growing significance of Qualified Opportunity Zones, or QOZs. With nearly 25 years of financial industry experience, Ray provides invaluable insights into how these zones are not only transforming distressed communities but also offering unique tax incentives for investors that meet certain requirements.

Throughout this episode, Jim and Ray discuss: 

  • The essentials and origins of Qualified Opportunity Zones
  • Why they may be attractive for those eyeing significant capital gains, but also have a long-term horizon, a desire to invest in real estate, and low liquidity needs
  • Discover the dual benefits (tax incentives and positive community impact) of investing in QOZs
  • Gain insights into why some real estate investors are ditching the 1031 exchange cycle in favor of QOZs
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with McGovern Wealth Group:

Connect with Ray DeSantis:

About Our Guest:

Ray DeSantis is the Managing Director of Capital Markets at Redbrick LMD, where he leads investor relations and capital-raising efforts. Prior to Redbrick, he served as Vice President at the CIM Group, focusing on Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs) and Family Offices. He also has experience raising capital for Resources Real Estate’s non-traded REIT and Limited Partnerships. Ray holds an MBA from Bryant University and a degree from Saint Anselm’s College. His expertise spans capital markets, real estate, and tax-advantaged investment opportunities like Qualified Opportunity Zones.

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High Earners, Low Coverage: Solving the Income Protection Gap with Tasha Jo Hill (Ep. 33)

High Earners, Low Coverage: Solving the Income Protection Gap with Tasha Jo Hill (Ep. 33)

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Higher earning individuals are often left underinsured and shocked by the limitations of group disability policies. How confident are you that your income is optimally protected in the event of a disability?

In this episode, Jim McGovern welcomes Tasha Jo Hill, a seasoned expert in disability income planning and the Director of Income Protection Strategies at Lifetime Financial Growth, LLC. Together, they shed light on misconceptions with common group disability insurance policies, and identify the gaps that widen as income levels increase. 

In this episode, Jim and Tasha will:

  • Uncover often-overlooked misconceptions about disability insurance
  • Discover whether or not your current disability insurance truly covers your full compensation
  • Learn what constitutes a partial disability and reveal the essential role of supplemental insurance in bolstering this coverage
  • Explore how owning a disability insurance policy can be a safeguard to financial stability, particularly during employment transitions
  • Discover simple yet powerful strategies that can provide high quality coverage at a steep discount, without the typical medical underwriting challenges.
  • Explore specialized strategies for higher-income earners to ensure comprehensive protection
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with McGovern Wealth Group:

Connect with Tasha Jo Hill:

About our guest:

Tasha Jo Hill serves as the Director of Income Protection Strategies at Lifetime Financial Growth, boasting over two decades of expertise in disability income planning. Dedicated to safeguarding individuals’ ability to earn, Tasha crafts personalized protection strategies, whether complementing existing benefits or as stand-alone safeguards. She is steadfast in her commitment to client excellence, educating and empowering a diverse clientele to secure their financial futures against unforeseen life events.

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DNU
The State of the Economy and the Financial Markets with Mike Trudel, CFA, JD (Ep. 32)

The State of the Economy and the Financial Markets with Mike Trudel, CFA, JD (Ep. 32)

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Ready to untangle the web between the Federal Reserve, Big Tech, and your investments?

In this episode, Jim McGovern from McGovern Wealth Group sits down with Michael Trudel, CFA, JD, Managing Director and Global Strategist at BlackRock, to explore the complexities of today’s markets – from the U.S. economy’s surprising resilience to the tech sector’s influence on the stock market this year. Armed with over two decades of industry experience, Mike offers an insightful, well-rounded perspective on the economy and what’s been the financial markets.

Throughout this episode, Jim and Mike discuss:

  • Why the U.S. economy is showing resilience despite Federal Reserve actions
  • How the major tech companies are driving stock market gains
  • How the corporate inventory restocking contributes to positive growth in GDP
  • The earnings outlook in the recent years compared to the past
  • The rising interest rates and their impact on the overall stock and bond market 
  • The economic picture outside of the U. S. and how things are looking around the world
  • An overview of the bond markets and what investors could expect in the future
  • And more!

Connect with McGovern Wealth Group:

Connect with Michael Trudel:

About our guest:

Michael Trudel is a seasoned financial expert with a dual background in law and portfolio management. Michael is a Chartered Financial Analyst and Managing Director at BlackRock’s Global Allocation team. With over two decades in the industry, he’s an authority on macro strategy and portfolio analysis, having previously served at Merrill Lynch and the Bank of New York. Armed with multiple degrees, including a cum laude JD and an MBA, Mike offers a well-rounded perspective on global financial trends.

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Trust Companies vs. Individual Trustees: Which Is Right for Your Special Needs Trust? Discussion with Dan Ehrmentraut of Capital First Trust (Ep. 30)

Trust Companies vs. Individual Trustees: Which Is Right for Your Special Needs Trust? Discussion with Dan Ehrmentraut of Capital First Trust (Ep. 30)

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Supplemental Needs Trust is an often-underrated game-changer, paramount for enhancing the quality of life for individuals with special needs.

In this episode, Jim McGovern talks with Dan Ehrmentraut, Senior Vice President of Business Development at Capital First Trust, about the ins and outs of Supplemental Needs Trusts. Together, they dive into the world of trust management, debunking common misconceptions, and shedding light on how these tools can protect assets and qualify individuals for essential government benefits.

Throughout this episode, Jim and Dan discuss:

  • The definition of Supplemental Needs Trusts, their key benefits, and who can benefit from them 
  • How a trust can qualify an individual for government benefits while protecting other assets 
  • The crucial role of estate planning in preserving the beneficiary’s access to resources and eligibility for benefits 
  • The reluctance of many corporate trustees to administer special needs trusts, and how Capital First Trust fills this gap 
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Dan Ehrmentraut:

Connect with McGovern Wealth Group:

About our guest:

Dan Ehrmentraut is a seasoned expert in trust management with an illustrious career in both law and finance. Holding a J.D. from the University of New York at Buffalo and admitted to the New York Bar in 1984, Dan carries a wealth of experience and knowledge. Over two decades, Dan worked his magic in traditional bank trust departments, navigating roles as Trust Officer, Regional Trust Manager, Supervisor of Trust Tax and IRA, Sales Manager, and Department Head. His journey took him further to the doors of several large financial service companies, playing significant roles in business development.

In 2013, Dan joined Capital First Trust Company, expanding its directed trustee presence across various financial and legal landscapes. His vast experience and knack for details have led him to successfully work with numerous financial advisors on complex estate plans, integrating the benefits of a directed trust structure for wealthy clients.

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Retaining Key Employees with Non-Qualified Retirement Plans, Part 2 with Thomas Wyatt, JD, CFP® (Ep. 29)

Retaining Key Employees with Non-Qualified Retirement Plans, Part 2 with Thomas Wyatt, JD, CFP® (Ep. 29)

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For any business owner, losing key employees can be costly and disruptive. Retaining top-performing employees is crucial not only for growing your bottom line, but also for maximizing your enterprise value when it’s time to exit the business.

In the previous episode, we talked about qualified retirement plans. Today, we will discuss non-qualified retirement plans, which serve as an effective incentive to retain talent while simultaneously enabling your business to realize tax savings!

Join Jim McGovern and Thomas Wyatt, JD, CFP® and President of our Columbus office, in this two-part series as they share meaningful insights into various non-qualified deferred compensation plans, and their benefits for both the employer and employee.

Jim and Thomas discuss:

  • How non-qualified retirement plans differ from qualified plans
  • How Section 162 Executive Bonus Plans help retain employees for over a decade (and why they are easy to set up) 
  • A simplified explanation of split-dollar life insurance plans
  • Understanding Supplemental Executive Retirement Programs, which serve as “golden handcuffs”
  • How to reward employees without diluting your ownership using phantom stock plans
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with McGovern Wealth Group:

Connect with Thomas Wyatt:

About our guest:

Thomas Wyatt, JD, CFP® is a highly skilled Certified Financial Planner, Professional based in Columbus, OH. With a strong focus on assisting businesses, business owners, and individual clients, Thomas has dedicated his career to helping them achieve their financial goals through effective and efficient tax-favored strategies.

Throughout his professional journey, Thomas has specialized in various areas, including Profit Sharing, 401(k) plans, Defined Benefit plans, Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plans, and essential employee benefits. By implementing these strategies, he empowers his clients to attract and retain talented individuals while maximizing tax advantages.

Recognizing the significance of individual financial aspirations, Thomas also works closely with individuals to help them shape the future they desire. Through comprehensive planning and personalized strategies, he assists clients in realizing their dreams and securing their financial well-being. With his extensive knowledge and unwavering dedication, Thomas Wyatt, JD, CFP® is a trusted financial partner committed to empowering businesses and individuals alike on their journey toward financial success.

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Retirement Planning Essentials, Part 1 with Thomas Wyatt, JD, CFP® (Ep. 28)

Retirement Planning Essentials, Part 1 with Thomas Wyatt, JD, CFP® (Ep. 28)

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In this two-part series, we’ll be covering qualified retirement plans in Part 1 and non-qualified retirement plans in Part 2. If you’re a business owner, these episodes are a must-listen, as they provide valuable insights into retirement income planning, plan designs, limitations, and how to administer them for maximum tax savings.

In part 1, we provide you with important information for navigating qualified retirement plans. Thomas Wyatt JD, CFP® and President of our Columbus office, will guide you through the complexities and help you make informed financial decisions for your business.

Here’s what you’ll learn in Part 1:

  • Understanding the intricacies of pre-tax IRAs and Roth IRAs, including income limitations and contribution rates
  • Exploring the benefits and limitations of SEP IRAs for small business owners and how they differ from traditional IRAs
  • What Simple Roth IRAs are, and how they compare to a 401k
  • Strategies for business owners on how they can design their 401k plans based on their business goals
  • What the 412(e)(3) plan is, and how it differentiates from other retirement plans
  • And a whole lot more!

Connect with McGovern Wealth Group:

Connect with Thomas Wyatt:

About our guest:

Thomas Wyatt, JD, CFP® is a highly skilled Certified Financial Planner based in Columbus, OH. With a strong focus on assisting businesses, business owners, and individual clients, Thomas has dedicated his career to helping them achieve their financial goals through effective and efficient tax-favored strategies.

Throughout his professional journey, Thomas has specialized in various areas, including Profit Sharing, 401(k) plans, Defined Benefit plans, Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plans, and essential employee benefits. By implementing these strategies, he empowers his clients to attract and retain talented individuals while maximizing tax advantages.

Recognizing the significance of individual financial aspirations, Thomas also works closely with individuals to help them shape the future they desire. Through comprehensive planning and personalized strategies, he assists clients in realizing their dreams and securing their financial well-being. With his extensive knowledge and unwavering dedication, Thomas Wyatt, JD, CFP® is a trusted financial partner committed to empowering businesses and individuals alike on their journey toward financial success.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 50:37 — 46.3MB) | Embed

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