Tag: Wealth Management

FEATURE
How to Build a Diversified Investment Portfolio with Phil Huber, CFA, CFP®

How to Build a Diversified Investment Portfolio with Phil Huber, CFA, CFP®

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Are you ready to unlock the potential of alternative investments in your portfolio?

Join Robert Curtiss as he sits down with repeat guest Phil Huber from Cliffwater to explore the dynamic world of alternative investments. 

The episode delves into the benefits of diversification, the current volatility in global markets, and the strategic role of private debt and equity. Discover why modern investors can’t afford to ignore these opportunities and how they’ve helped portfolios remain robust amidst market uncertainty.

Other key discussions include:

  • Broad asset allocation outlook and capital market assumptions [00:01:52]
  • The role and expectations of traditional versus private asset classes [00:05:22]
  • Differences in stock valuation between US and non-US stocks [00:05:53]
  • Performance insights and misconceptions about private markets [00:22:17]
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Phil Huber:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

About Our Guest:

Phil is a Managing Director and Head of Portfolio Solutions for Cliffwater, based in their Chicago office. In this role, Phil leverages his prior experience as a wealth management CIO to produce and curate investment research, advise on product strategy and positioning for the firm’s growing platform, and help establish and strengthen relationships with the nation’s leading wealth management firms.

Prior to joining Cliffwater, Phil was the Chief Investment Officer for Savant Wealth Management. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, has attained his Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) designation, and is a member of the CFA Society of Chicago.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP® and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ in the U.S., which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

FEATURE
The Future of Venture Capital with Anthony Giambrone and Stephen West (Ep.68)

The Future of Venture Capital with Anthony Giambrone and Stephen West (Ep.68)

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Want to know how venture capital is reshaping the future? Join us as we explore this dynamic landscape with industry experts.

Robert Curtiss, CFP®, sits down with Stephen West and Anthony Giambrone from StepStone to demystify venture capital. They explore how this dynamic sector, historically the reserve of institutions, is becoming more accessible. Discover how venture opportunities can diversify your portfolio and how the VC landscape has transformed over the past decade.  

Top takeaways include:

  • Difference between Private Equity and Venture Capital and why VC matters [04:58]
  • Today’s VC landscape and the democratization of investment accessibility [12:38]
  • Insights into innovative sectors like AI and aerospace [15:06]
  • Real-world examples of tech advancements reshaping industries [18:21]

Resources:

Connect with Anthony Giambrone and Stephen West:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

About Our Guests:

Mr. Giambrone is a member of the private equity team, focusing on venture capital and growth equity investments.

Prior to joining StepStone, Mr. Giambrone was a principal with Greenspring Associates, a venture capital and growth equity investment firm that merged with StepStone in 2021. Previously, he was a senior associate at Mercato Partners, a leading growth-stage, venture capital fund based in Salt Lake City, Utah. Before that, he was an investment banking analyst with Deloitte Corporate Finance (formerly McColl Partners).

Mr. West is a member of the private equity team, focusing on venture capital and growth equity investments.

Prior to StepStone, Mr. West was a member of the research team at Greenspring Associates, a venture capital and growth equity investment firm that merged with StepStone in 2021. Prior to that, Mr. West was a technology investment associate at JMP securities focused on cybersecurity and an associate management consultant within the strategy and organization practice at Booz Allen Hamilton. Mr. West served as a human intelligence officer in the Marine Corps.

FEATURE
Why the Future of Financial Planning is Relationship-Focused with Mike Cy (Ep. 63)

Why the Future of Financial Planning is Relationship-Focused with Mike Cy (Ep. 63)

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As the financial world becomes increasingly interconnected, true wealth management goes beyond portfolios—it’s about clarity, relationships, and forward-thinking strategies.

Robert Curtiss and Mike Cy take us into the heart of their holistic approach to financial planning, showcasing the tools and processes that empower clients to achieve confidence in their financial futures. They uncover how cutting-edge technology and adaptability redefine wealth strategies, even in a post-COVID world, while fostering enduring, multi-generational success.

Tune in and discover how a client-first, innovation-driven approach transforms financial advisory into a tool for lasting impact!

Key topics discussed include:

  • Building aligned relationships through the Fit Process
  • Enhancing client experiences with high-tech onboarding strategies
  • Using the Sounding Board Service for proactive financial guidance
  • Simplifying complexities with the Value-Added Support Team (VAST)
  • Unlocking exclusive private market opportunities with alternative investments
  • Adapting virtual engagement tools for seamless client support
  • Creating long-lasting multi-generational financial plans
  • And much more!

Resources:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

Connect with Mike “Cy” Cajthaml Jr.:

About Our Guest:

Mike “Cy” Cajthaml Jr. has enjoyed a 14-year career in the financial services industry. Mike is a passionate and energetic leader who enjoys developing business refinement and practice management strategies and thrives on helping his clients achieve their goals.

He got his start in the industry at a large insurance marketing organization, where he consulted financial advisors across the country on product and marketing solutions for their businesses. During his time with this firm, he was introduced to Pareto Systems and began learning about the Pareto Process.

After six years of coaching and consulting advisers, Mike decided to become a financial advisor himself and built a practice with his father in Overland Park, KS. Together, they managed millions of dollars of assets and utilized various insurance-based products. Mike knew the value of creating professional contrast in an incredibly competitive marketplace and began implementing many of Pareto’s processes.

FEATURE
Precision, Performance, and People: Inside SEIA’s Process with Vince Reyes and Tony Nguyen (Ep. 62)

Precision, Performance, and People: Inside SEIA’s Process with Vince Reyes and Tony Nguyen (Ep. 62)

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As financial markets grow more complex, the difference between a good trade and a great one lies in precision, relationships, and cutting-edge tools.

Robert Curtiss welcomes Vince Reyes, Director of Trading Operations, and Tony Nguyen, Senior Trader at SEIA, to uncover the meticulous strategies behind SEIA’s trading desk. Together, they break down how high-touch execution, trusted dealer relationships, and advanced tools drive superior client outcomes—even in volatile or illiquid markets.

So, tune in as they explore SEIA’s finely tuned trading operation, revealing how their client-first approach ensures precision and performance in every trade while adapting to an ever-changing financial landscape!

Key topics discussed include:

  • Mastering high-touch trading for precision in large or illiquid orders
  • Leveraging relationships with bond dealers to obtain better execution for fixed-income trades
  • Using advanced tools like RFQ to achieve competitive pricing on ETF block trades
  • Implementing robust compliance systems, including quarterly best execution reviews and real-time trade monitoring
  • Delivering a “white-glove” client experience through tailored, relationship-driven strategies
  • Insights into evolving client needs, including increasing demand for sophisticated strategies like options trading
  • And much more!

Resources:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

Connect with Vince Reyes:

Connect with Tony Nguyen:

About Our Guests:

Vincent Reyes, CMFC®, is the Director of Trading Operations at SEIA. Since joining SEIA in 2007, Vincent has overseen and managed all trading operations in the Century City, Pasadena, Newport Beach, Redondo Beach, and Virginia offices. Vincent previously worked as a NASDAQ Market Maker and Proprietary Trader at two major brokerage firms from 1993 to 2007. He has handled many institutional clients, including hedge funds, pensions, and mutual funds. He has also worked directly with specialists and floor brokers on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), Chicago Board of Exchange (options), and other regional exchanges. Vincent is a Bloomberg Certified user and is well-versed in using many electronic trading systems.

Tony Nguyen is the Senior Trader in the SEIA Trading Department. Tony works closely with the firm’s financial advisors and portfolio managers to provide efficient trade executions in fixed-income securities. Before joining SEIA, Tony was a trader for Banc of America Securities on the institutional fixed-income desk serving the Los Angeles and San Diego regions. His clients included Fortune 500 companies, municipalities, and insurance companies.

FEATURE
How to Protect Your Loved Ones: Special Needs Trusts Explained with April Rosenberry (Ep. 60)

How to Protect Your Loved Ones: Special Needs Trusts Explained with April Rosenberry (Ep. 60)

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As the 2026 estate tax law changes inch closer, the risk of costly financial missteps is rising for those who don’t plan ahead. 

Failing to act now could mean losing millions in taxes.

Robert Curtiss welcomes back April Rosenberry, Director of Estate, Tax, and Financial Planning, to offer valuable insights into the upcoming tax exemptions and what they really mean for estate owners.  Together, they examine why proactive estate planning is more critical than ever—especially for families with special needs beneficiaries. 

Tune in as they also explore SEIA’s unique, holistic approach, revealing how a collaborative strategy can bring peace of mind in the face of an ever-changing financial landscape.

Key topics discussed include:

  • How 2026’s estate tax law changes will reduce exemptions and why early planning is critical
  • The role of special needs trusts when it comes to protecting beneficiaries without losing access to government aid
  • SEIA’s commitment to working with legal professionals to provide tailored, stress-free estate planning
  • Why flexible trust language is vital for adapting to changing family circumstances
  • How a proactive, all-inclusive approach can secure your family’s long-term financial stability
  • And much 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.

FEATURE
Navigating Alternative Investments with Phil Huber, CFA, CFP® (Ep. 55)

Navigating Alternative Investments with Phil Huber, CFA, CFP® (Ep. 55)

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Private equity might sound complex, but it simply means investing in companies that aren’t listed on public stock exchanges.

Are you ready to uncover the world of private equity and alternative investments?

This week on The Millionaire Next Door, Robert Curtiss, CFP®, welcomes Phil Huber from Cliffwater to explore the fascinating world of private equity and alternative investments. 

Tune in as they cover the potential advantages of private investments while mentioning ways they can represent a valuable addition to a well-rounded portfolio, especially for those seeking a work-optional lifestyle. 

Rob and Phil discuss:

  • The dynamics between public and private equity markets and why private equity is becoming increasingly attractive
  • The evolution of Cliffwater and its commitment to providing accessible, diversified private debt and equity opportunities
  • Some intricacies of alternative investments, including co-investments and secondary transactions
  • Insights into how even the ‘millionaire next door’ can benefit from sophisticated investment strategies historically reserved for large institutions
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Phil Huber:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

About Our Guest:

Prior to joining Cliffwater, Phil was the Chief Investment Officer for Savant Wealth Management. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, has attained his Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) designation, and is a member of the CFA Society of Chicago.

Phil has been featured in a number of notable media outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, InvestmentNews, CityWire RIA Magazine, and Bloomberg TV. From 2018-2020, he was named one of Investopedia’s Top Financial Advisors. Phil was also named CIO of the Year by RIA Intel in 2023.

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)

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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.

FEATURE
How To Save Your Way To Freedom with Tyson Ray (Ep. 41)

How To Save Your Way To Freedom with Tyson Ray (Ep. 41)

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Wealth isn’t about just numbers…

Would you agree?

Join host Robert Curtiss and special guest Tyson Ray, CFP®, CExP®, and CIMA® from FORM Wealth Advisors in this eye-opening episode of The Millionaire Next Door!

Together, they unravel the lesser-known aspects of wealth management while talking about their approach to guiding individuals toward a life of choice and comfort beyond the balance sheet.

Rob and Tyson explore:

  • Changing the meaning of financial success to match wealth with personal goals and dreams
  • Moving from careful saving to spending with confidence
  • The value of client-advisor communication when planning for a strong financial future
  • The role of financial advisors when helping their clients create meaningful legacies and increasing the happiness that comes from their wealth
  • Key lessons from Tyson’s book “The Total Relationship” 
  • And much more!

Resources:

Connect with Tyson Ray:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

About  Our Guest:

FORM Wealth Advisors | CEO, Founding Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor

Over the past 25+ years, Tyson Ray has sought to expand his knowledge and expertise through Yale School of Management, Investment Management Theory & Practice, CIMA Certification Registration Education Program, including obtaining the Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®) Certification and through the College for Financial Planning for the CFP® Certification, including obtaining CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Certification. Tyson received his Certification in Business Exit Planning to better help entrepreneurs and business owners make the transition of selling their life’s work.

Tyson has been named a 2018-2023 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisor**, 2021-2023 Barron’s Top 1200*, and a 2005-2023 Chairman’s Council Advisor***. He is also a member of the Financial Planning Association of Wisconsin. He has been recognized for his many philanthropic endeavors in the community, including the Invest in Others Global Community Impact Award and REP. Magazine’s Advisor with a Heart Award for Sustainable Charity for his ongoing work with Ray’s non-profit, Children’s World Impact.

Securities through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA / SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc.  FORM Wealth Advisors is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Raymond James and its advisors do not provide tax advice. Form Wealth Advisors is located at 431 Geneva National Ave S, Lake Geneva, WI, 53147 and you can reach the office at 262-686-3005.

Tyson Ray was named to the 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 edition of the Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors. Barron’s Top 1,200 Financial Advisors 2023, is based on the period from 09/30/2021 – 09/30/2022 and was released on 03/15/2023. 5,630 nominations were received and 1,200 won. Neither Raymond James nor any of its advisors pay a fee in exchange for this award. More: https://www.raymondjames.com/awarddisclosures/#2023-barrons-top-1200.

Tyson Ray was named to the 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 edition of the Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors. 2023 Forbes Top Wealth Advisors Best-In-State, developed by Shook Research, is based on the period from 6/30/2021 to 6/30/2022 and was released on 4/4/2023. 39,007 nominations were received and 7,321 advisors won. Neither Raymond James nor any of its advisors pay a fee in exchange for this award. More: https://go.rjf.com/3KsXbF7. Please see https://www.forbes.com/best-in-state-wealth-advisors for more info.

Tyson Ray was named as a Chairman’s Council Advisor, 2005-2023. Membership is based on prior fiscal year production. Re-qualification is required annually. The ranking may not be representative of any one client’s experience, is not an endorsement, and is not indicative of advisor’s future performance. No fee is paid in exchange for this award/rating.

FEATURE
Unveiling the Fiduciary Approach of Signature Estate and Investment Advisors (SEIA) (Ep. 33)

Unveiling the Fiduciary Approach of Signature Estate and Investment Advisors (SEIA) (Ep. 33)

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Financial and investment advisors are all about creating the best financial plan for their client’s needs. 

But how does Signature Estate and Investment Advisors (SEIA) set themselves apart from the crowd?

In this episode, Robert Curtiss is back to basics! Rob talks about SEIA’s services and approach while emphasizing their independence and fiduciary responsibility to prioritize clients’ best interests. 

Tune in and explore the firm’s investment strategies to help clients gain the most from their portfolios. 

Rob discusses:

  • What it means to be a full fiduciary and independent wealth management firm
  • The importance of having regular conversations with clients when building their financial and investment plan
  • Why alternative investments and private debt could be beneficial investments 
  • SEIA’s ideal clients 
  • How he builds personalized relationships with his clients, and why
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

FEATURE
3. How To Reach The Peak of Your Wealth Management Pyramid

3. How To Reach The Peak of Your Wealth Management Pyramid

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A financial plan needs to be tailored to your individual needs. 

If you’re wondering where to start and how to build your personalized plan, Robert Curtiss’ wealth management pyramid approach could provide you with the guidance you need. 

In this episode, Robert reveals how he has helped his clients navigate the different stages of their wealth management from the principles of creating a financial plan to the benefits of wealth counseling. Robert highlights how each step of the wealth management pyramid contributes to the development of your overall plan.

Robert discusses:

  • The building blocks of the wealth management pyramid
  • The holistic approach of SEIA’s wealth management process
  • Reasons why family involvement is crucial when creating a financial plan
  • The benefits of wealth counseling
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Robert Curtiss:

 

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