Category: Education

Essential Steps in Estate Planning with Roger Silk (Ep. 51)

Essential Steps in Estate Planning with Roger Silk (Ep. 51)

Did you know that more than two-thirds of adult Americans have yet to implement any form of estate planning? 

Even high-profile figures like Prince and Pablo Picasso faced chaotic and costly consequences because they lacked a proper plan.

Join Rob Curtiss alongside Roger Silk, CEO of Sterling Foundation Management LLC, for a deep dive into the essentials of estate planning. 

Get ready to learn how to set up a secure and impactful legacy, understand the implications of the upcoming 2025 sunset of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, and explore strategies to mitigate taxes and avoid probate, all while ensuring your wishes are honored.

Rob and Roger discuss:

  • The value of having a well-structured estate plan to avoid unnecessary legal battles and high taxes
  • Real-life stories of high-profile individuals who faced estate planning disasters
  • Insights into the 2025 sunset of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 and its potential impact on estate and gift taxes
  • Strategies for managing and diversifying highly appreciated assets to minimize tax liabilities
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Roger Silk:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

About Our Guest:

Roger Silk, Ph.D., is the CEO of Sterling Foundation Management, LLC, and President of Lifetime Perspectives, Inc. Roger is widely recognized as a leading expert and innovator in the emerging field at the intersection of finance and philanthropy. 

Roger has more than three decades of experience working with and advising wealthy clients, high-net-worth families, and the advisors who work with them on a variety of issues ranging from the use of private foundations to the integration of sophisticated charitable planning into multi-generational estate plans. He has worked with numerous investment, accounting, financial planning, and legal professionals to educate them, their firms, and their clients about the benefits and characteristics of a full suite of solutions, entities, and planning tools.

Episode 50 Special: Caring for Aging Loved Ones with Mary Winners

Episode 50 Special: Caring for Aging Loved Ones with Mary Winners

Did you know that 78% of people in assisted living still feel lonely despite the communal environment? 

This underscores the importance of not only financial planning but also emotional and social planning as we age.

Join Rob Crutiss as he welcomes Mary Winners, founder of About Senior Solutions™, to discuss the complexities of aging and the importance of comprehensive planning for diminished capacity, whether physical or mental. 

Get ready to hear practical advice and real-life anecdotes to learn how you can prepare for the future and strive for a brighter outcome for yourself and your loved ones.

Rob and Mary talk about:

  • The significance of proactive planning to avoid crises as you age
  • Physical and mental challenges of the elderly, such as Alzheimer’s and dementia 
  • Insights into developing a personalized care plan that acknowledges your wishes
  • The role of technology and community in supporting aging individuals
  • The costs and common struggles associated with caring for the elderly
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Mary Winners:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

About Our Guest:

Mary Winners has over a decade of experience in healthcare. While physicians and nurses provide medical recommendations, Mary understands the other side of health care-the confusing maze of healthcare options and unknowns. She has extensive knowledge in acute care hospitalization, Gero-psychiatric issues, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, hospice, assisted living, and other senior care options. 

As a noted speaker and adviser, Mary has provided expert services to a wide variety of seniors in every economic category. Her ability to accurately pinpoint and guide families as they deal with emotionally life-changing events gives Mary unparalleled insights.

In 2023, Mary was appointed Commissioner for Older Adults by The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.

Navigating the Ever-Changing Landscape of Market Trends with Will Gibson (Ep. 49)

Navigating the Ever-Changing Landscape of Market Trends with Will Gibson (Ep. 49)

In a time when economic textbooks preach the inevitability of risk in pursuit of reward, the current state of the financial markets tells a different story. 

Follow along as Rob Curtiss sits down with returning guest Will Gibson, chartered financial analyst (CFA) and research analyst at Nasdaq Dorsey Wright, for an insightful conversation on the fascinating state of the financial markets. 

From the subtle trends shaping the future of investing to the compelling force of interest rates and commodities, Will brings a wealth of knowledge and clarity to the complex world of finance. 

Listen in as they explore the critical elements affecting your investments and how you can navigate these shifting tides with a better understanding.

Episode talking points include:

  • Rising interest rates and their implications for investors and the broader economic outlook
  • The current state and potential future of US equities, including the impact of recent pullbacks
  • Popular commodities in the market, what’s driving their momentum, and ways they could impact your investment strategy
  • Investors’ behavior and market speculation, drawing parallels from historical records to today’s market dynamics
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Will Gibson:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

About Our Guest:

Will Gibson, CFA, currently works as a Senior Research Analyst for Nasdaq Dorsey Wright (DWA), a boutique investment advisory and asset management division of Nasdaq focused on providing quantitative capital market strategies to Wall Street and professional money managers globally. He joined the team as an intern in 2018 and now produces macro technical research for the firm’s clients and Daily Market Report. Other involvements include indicator testing, adaptive modeling, and furthering the firm’s media/educational efforts.

Lessons From the Past: Exploring US Financial History with Mark Higgins, CFA, CFP® (Ep. 48)

Lessons From the Past: Exploring US Financial History with Mark Higgins, CFA, CFP® (Ep. 48)

Have you ever thought about how financial history can impact your investment decisions? 

This week on The Millionaire Next Door, Robert Curtiss speaks with Mark Higgins, CFA, CFP®, and author of “Investing in U.S. Financial History: Understanding the Past to Forecast the Future.” 

Mark delves into his journey of researching and writing about US financial history and the significance of understanding the past to make informed decisions in the present financial environment. So, tune in as Rob and Mark offer valuable perspectives for investors and financial professionals alike.

Rob and Mark discuss:

  • The journey behind Mark’s book
  • The value of understanding financial history
  • Past financial crises and how they relate to current economic challenges
  • The evolution of market efficiency
  • The resilience of the United States economy
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Mark Higgins:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

About Our Guest:

Mark J. Higgins, CFA, CFP, is an author, financial historian, and frequent contributor to Enterprising Investor. His work draws from his upcoming book, Investing in U.S. Financial History. 

Before writing Investing in U.S. Financial History, Mark served as a senior investment consultant for more than 12 years. In this role, he advised the trustees of large pension plans, foundations, endowments, and insurance reserves that had aggregate assets of more than $60 billion. As a consultant, he discovered that understanding financial history proved much more valuable than tracking the latest economic data.

Process-Oriented Financial Insights For Long-term Success with Will Gibson (Ep. 47)

Process-Oriented Financial Insights For Long-term Success with Will Gibson (Ep. 47)

Do you need help to make sense of all the financial noise in the market?

Cut through the noise and learn tips and tricks to make informed investment decisions with clarity and confidence by playing this week’s episode of The Millionaire Next Door. 

Listen as Will Gibson, chartered financial analyst (CFA) and research analyst at Nasdaq Dorsey Wright, joins host Robert Curtiss to navigate the world of technical analysis and trend-following strategies in investment management. 

This episode offers valuable insights into leveraging data-driven decision-making and sticking to a systematic process to navigate market complexities effectively. 

Rob and Will discuss:

  • The value of following disciplined and systematic processes in financial planning
  • Point figure charting for objective buy and sell signals
  • Leveraging technical analysis to eliminate market noise 
  • Challenges of emotional decision-making and market timing
  • Compounding and timing wealth management
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Will Gibson:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

About Our Guest:

Will Gibson, CFA, currently works as a Research Analyst for Nasdaq Dorsey Wright (DWA), a boutique investment advisory and asset management division of Nasdaq focused on providing quantitative capital market strategies to Wall Street and professional money managers globally. He joined the team as an intern in 2018 and now produces macro technical research for the firm’s clients and Daily Market Report. Other involvements include indicator testing, adaptive modeling, and furthering the firm’s media/educational efforts. 

Safeguard Your Wealth: Unraveling the Complexities of Estate Planning with April Rosenberry (Ep. 46)

Safeguard Your Wealth: Unraveling the Complexities of Estate Planning with April Rosenberry (Ep. 46)

How to protect your assets and legacy from potential financial abuse and undue influence? 

Do you know?

In the latest edition of The Millionaire Next Door Podcast, Rob Curtiss is joined by April Rosenberry, director of estate tax and financial planning at SEIA, to explore the complexities of estate planning and the importance of comprehensive financial strategies to safeguard your wealth and loved ones. 

April shares her experience and insights on upcoming tax law changes while providing valuable tips to help you navigate the intricate world of estate planning.

Rob and April discuss:

  • Estate planning to protect assets and prevent financial abuse
  • Federal estate tax laws and upcoming changes
  • Different estate planning documents such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare proxy
  • Financial elder abuse and undue influence in estate planning
  • The value of proactive planning
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with April Rosenberry:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

About Our Guest:

April Rosenberry has been a tax attorney for over 25 years. With Bar licenses in California and New York, April specializes in estate planning, company structuring, and litigation. She has represented banks and corporations in court, earning recognition and numerous awards.

April excels in developing departments for companies, expanding client offerings, and managing legal teams in law firms, financial institutions, and wealth advisory firms. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from CSUN in 1995, a Juris Doctor from California Western School of Law in 1998, and a Master of Laws in Taxation from USD School of Law in 1999.

Recognized in Modern Luxury magazine, April has received a Trifecta Award and is designated a Five Star Professional. She contributes to scholarly articles for the American Bar Association and the ACFLS Journal, in addition to speaking engagements and pro bono work for Wills for Heroes. A member of various associations, she enjoys yoga, performing arts, and traveling with her family.

Compelling Investment Opportunities in Today’s Market with Ryan Issakainen (Ep. 45)

Compelling Investment Opportunities in Today’s Market with Ryan Issakainen (Ep. 45)

In today’s rapidly evolving market landscape, investors are often confronted with the challenge of making informed decisions amidst a plethora of options and the noise of market fluctuations.

In this insightful episode of The Millionaire Next Door, Robert Curtiss is joined by certified financial analyst and ETF analyst at First Trust, Ryan Issakainen. Together, they jump into the intricacies of thematic investing — a strategy that can potentially offer investors a pathway to capitalize on emerging market trends. 

By dissecting the impact of behavioral biases on investment choices, Ryan provides listeners with strategies to identify undervalued companies that may thrive even in light of economic downturns. 

Rob and Ryan discuss:

  • Thematic investing and market opportunities
  • The composition of ETFs and the importance of quality and risk management in investment decisions
  • The future of infrastructure investment and the strategic shift in supply chains within the United States
  • Looking beyond the S&P 500 for investment opportunities
  • Cybersecurity as an increasingly vital investment theme
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Ryan Issakainen:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

About Our Guest:

Ryan Issakainen is in his 25th year at First Trust, where he serves as the ETF Strategist. 

Throughout his enduring tenure, Ryan has solidified his position as a dedicated professional committed to guiding investors through the complexities of the market. In his role, he focuses on providing insightful perspectives to help investors navigate the multitude of available choices, aiming to align ETF selections with their specific investment objectives. 

With a wealth of experience, Ryan’s strategic approach involves meticulous analysis of market trends and fund performance, making him a trusted advisor. His enduring commitment to empowering investors reflects not only his financial acumen but also his genuine passion for assisting clients in realizing their financial goals within the dynamic landscape of investment opportunities. Ryan Issakainen’s journey at First Trust stands as a testament to his expertise and unwavering dedication in the ever-evolving world of finance.

Learn How Alternative Investments Can Strengthen Your Portfolio with Joe Carey, CFA® (Ep. 44)

Learn How Alternative Investments Can Strengthen Your Portfolio with Joe Carey, CFA® (Ep. 44)

Alternative investments are investments that only some people hear about often.

But we can change that…

With a commitment to assist clients throughout their investment journey, in this episode of The Millionaire Next Door, Robert Curtiss sits down with Joe Carey,  alternative investment specialist at Signature Estate & Investment Advisors, LLC.

Rob and Joe explore the role of alternative investments in portfolio diversification, covering private equity, private credit, real estate, and hedge funds. They tackle the complexities and due diligence required in these less regulated spaces, emphasizing the importance of professional guidance. 

Talking points include:

  • What are alternative investments
  • Characteristics and challenges associated with alternative investments
  • Benefits and risks linked to less liquid and less regulated assets
  • Recommendations for portfolio allocation
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Joe Carey:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

About Our Guest:

In May 2018, Joe Carey earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance at Siena College, achieving the Academic Excellence Award – Finance, which is awarded annually to the graduating student with the highest program GPA. 

Since graduating, he has committed to continuing his education through enrollment in the CFA Program, obtaining his charter in 2022. Currently, Joe is an Investment Officer at NYSTRS in the Investment Risk division, where he focuses on the ~$150 billion portfolio’s active risk, liquidity position, solvency during stressed markets, and asset allocation mix. 

Additionally, Joe is a leading member in the development of NYSTRS’ climate risk strategy, reporting, and assessment processes.

Preserving Capital in Retirement with David Marra (Ep. 43)

Preserving Capital in Retirement with David Marra (Ep. 43)

Have you considered the significance of safeguarding your capital and managing risks during retirement? How does capital preservation play a role in maintaining a stable stream of income?

Join Rob Curtiss and his guest, David Marra, Co-Founder and Chief Investment Officer at Markin Asset Management, LP, as they navigate the connection between finance and technology, specifically delving into David’s expertise in quantitative investment research and machine learning. 

But that’s not everything! David and Rob also explore the importance of capital preservation and effective risk management, focusing on ensuring a stable stream of retirement income. 

Rob and David touch on:

  • David’s career and how it led to his focus on capital preservation and quantitative investment research
  • The importance of capital preservation leading up to retirement
  • Mitigating risk during market volatility
  • Ways the pandemic impacted investment strategies
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with David Marra:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

About Our Guest:

David Marra is the Chief Investment Officer at Markin Asset Management, LP.  David has been an invited speaker on quantitative asset management at numerous family offices, hedge funds, conferences, and organizations, including ALTSLA, NAPFA, and the Financial Planning Association (FPA). 

Throughout his career, David has developed a unique ability to explain complex portfolio concepts in a language allocators can use in client communications. David previously founded a quantitative research firm serving institutional asset managers and funds. His three decades of experience include advising C-level executives at some of the world’s leading asset management and pharmaceutical firms as a Principal with The Boston Consulting Group (BCG). 

Earlier in his career, he was the Founder & CEO of a search engine technology firm overseeing over 70 researchers and technologists. David received an MBA from the University of Chicago, Booth School of Business, where he was a Fellowship recipient.

From Denial to Deliberate: Planning for Life’s Final Moments with Pat Miles Zimmerman (Ep. 42)

From Denial to Deliberate: Planning for Life’s Final Moments with Pat Miles Zimmerman (Ep. 42)

We like to plan for education, weddings, raising children, and even retirement. But no one likes to plan for (or even talk about) the end of life.

It’s overwhelming…but also immensely important!

Join host Robert Curtiss and returning guest Pat Miles Zimmerman, author of “Before All Is Said and Done: Practical Advice on Living and Dying Well,” as they highlight the numerous challenges that follow the unexpected death of a loved one and help you plan for them — so you don’t have to learn them the hard way.

Rob and Pat explore:

  • The need to overcome denial of death and plan ahead, irrespective of age
  • Personal stories and advice from Pat’s book
  • The importance of attending to the details (e.g., managing passwords and subscriptions)
  • How an intention letter can avoid major family conflicts down the road
  • How to NOT leave behind a “trail of tears” for your loved ones after you’re gone
  • And much more!

Resources:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

About Our Guest:

Pat Miles Zimmerman, esteemed for her professionalism by viewers, listeners, and colleagues, became one of the Minneapolis region’s premier television news anchors and radio talk hosts.

After earning her master’s degree in journalism at the University of Missouri, Pat worked in both radio and television news in Colorado before joining WCCO TV in 1978 as a reporter and weekend anchor. Her intelligent reporting and authoritative delivery soon brought her to the anchor desk of WCCO’s 5:00 PM and 10:00 PM newscasts.

She covered every major news event for WCCO TV but was most proud of A Time to Weep, her documentary on the famine in Africa. In 1990, she moved to KARE TV, where she anchored the 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM newscasts and developed A Pat Miles Special, using her writing and interviewing prowess to tell the stories of notable Minnesotans. 

When she left TV news in 2001, she fulfilled a lifelong dream by becoming the host of The Pat Miles Show on weekday mornings on WCCO Radio.

A role model for women in the industry, Pat has received numerous honors for her work in broadcasting and the community, including the National Television Academy’s Silver Circle Award. She is also in the Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame.