Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your Life

In this episode of Ditch the Suits, Travis Maus takes on some of the most common investing questions people are asking today and challenges the assumptions behind them. From “What should my net worth be by age?” to “Should I get more conservative as I get older?” Travis explains why comparing yourself to benchmarks or headlines often leads to bad decisions.The conversation dives deep into market volatility, why downturns don’t automatically mean you’ve lost money, and how fear, which is often fueled by media narratives, causes investors to make costly mistakes. Travis also breaks down one of the biggest myths in modern investing: that passive investing is truly passive. Whether you’re choosing index funds, target-date funds, or asset allocations, there are always active decisions being made, and those decisions matter.This episode is a reality check for anyone who wants to better understand risk, returns, and how to align investing with real-life goals instead of arbitrary rules or hype.

In this episode of Ditch the Suits, we tackle some of the biggest financial questions people face and why the “right” answers aren’t as universal as we’ve been led to believe. Instead of rigid rules or industry clichés, this episode focuses on how real people can think more clearly about their money and make better long-term decisions.We break down common assumptions about being “ready” for retirement, when to invest versus buy a home, and how fear and uncertainty often drive financial choices more than facts. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure which move comes next, this episode will help you reframe the questions and move forward with more confidence and clarity.

Feeling overwhelmed by budgeting, saving, or investing and tired of hearing advice that doesn’t fit real life? In this episode of Ditch the Suits, Travis Maus answers some of the most common money questions people actually search for, from how to build a realistic budget and emergency fund, to deciding whether you should invest, pay off debt, or ignore the crypto hype altogether. You’ll learn how compound interest really works, how to think about retirement accounts without the jargon, and why financial progress isn’t about perfection, it’s about making smart decisions at every stage of life. No scare tactics, no sales pitches, just practical guidance for everyday people who want to get more out of their money and life.

In this episode of the Ditch the Suits podcast, I’m joined once again with Hannah Burchell, Senior Wealth Manager at S.E.E.D. Planning Group as we tackle the complex realities behind financial stress, exploring how family dynamics, communication, and emotional wellbeing shape our financial decisions. This conversation will dive into how money anxiety often stems from deeper life issues, like relationships, past experiences, and the influence of others, and how open, honest conversations are essential for finding clarity and confidence. Whether you’re navigating family expectations, adapting your financial plan to changing circumstances, or simply seeking peace of mind, this episode offers actionable strategies and heartfelt wisdom to help you focus on what truly matters and build a healthier financial future. I’m Travis Maus, CEO of S.E.E.D. Planning Group. S.E.E.D. is a fee only wealth management firm, and this podcast is all about share professional knowledge with you so that you can get more out of your money and life.  

Welcome to a new episode of the Ditch the Suits podcast, today we are joined by Hannah Burchell, Senior Wealth Manager at S.E.E.D. Planning Group as we dive deep into the true meaning of financial planning. This conversation is going to take us far beyond spreadsheets and projections as we explore how money intersects with life’s most important moments. You’ll hear about, and probably relate to, the emotional side of making big financial decisions, as we share real stories, and reveal how a skilled advisor can help people find peace of mind, navigate stress, and make choices that align with their values. Whether you’re facing a major life transition or simply want to understand how financial planning can support your happiness, this conversation offers practical wisdom and heartfelt insights for anyone seeking financial freedom.  I’m Travis Maus, CEO of S.E.E.D. Planning Group. S.E.E.D. is a fee only wealth management firm, and this podcast is all about share professional knowledge with you so that you can get more out of your money and life.  

Navigating health insurance and Medicare can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. In this episode, Travis Maus (CEO of S.E.E.D. Planning Group) sits down with Cole Craven, founder and Head of Growth at Move Health, to break down how financial advisors and their clients can confidently tackle healthcare decisions. Discover how Move Health’s team-based approach and partnership with forward-thinking advisors brings clarity, peace of mind, and real solutions to one of the most confusing parts of financial planning. Learn how advisors can move from reactive to proactive, ensuring clients get the support they need, whether planning for retirement, switching careers, or simply seeking better coverage. Cole shares insights on Move Health’s transparent process, the value of working with a dedicated team of health plan advisors, and why objective, education-focused guidance matters. The episode also covers industry compensation, the importance of holistic planning, and practical tips for understanding your own health coverage. If you’re ready to take healthcare off your worry list and empower yourself with practical knowledge, this conversation is for you. Key Takeaways: How financial advisors can confidently guide clients through healthcare decisions The Move Health workflow and what clients can expect Why team-based advice beats going it alone How Move Health is compensated and why transparency matters Actionable tips for understanding your health insurance and Medicare options Call to Action: Educate yourself, read your summary of benefits, and make sure you’re working with someone you trust. If your advisor isn’t helping with healthcare planning, it’s time to ask for more, or find someone who will. 🅿️ For more DTS content check out our PatreonThanks to our sponsor, S.E.E.D. Planning Group! S.E.E.D. is a fee-only financial planning firm with a fiduciary obligation to put your best interest first. Schedule your free discovery meeting at www.seedpg.com📧 For more information or to get in touch with us, visit https://www.ditchthesuits.comAbout Your Host:Travis Maus has been in financial services for over fifteen years. He is a Senior Wealth Manager and Chief Executive Officer at S.E.E.D. Planning Group. Travis also hosts the Unleashing Leadership Podcast, where he dissects some of his favorite books on leadership and how you can apply it to your business or life.

Health insurance and Medicare often feel like a black box, especially for retirees, entrepreneurs, and anyone facing a major life transition. In this episode, Travis Maus (CEO of S.E.E.D. Planning Group) welcomes Cole Craven, founder and Head of Growth at Move Health, to shine a light on the complexities of healthcare coverage and empower listeners with practical, actionable knowledge. Whether you’re planning for retirement, launching a business, or simply trying to make sense of your options, this conversation breaks down common myths, uncovers industry realities, and offers insights to help you make informed decisions about your health coverage. Cole shares his personal journey into the healthcare space, the founding story of Move Health, and why education is the key to overcoming uncertainty and fear around health insurance. Listeners will learn how Move Health helps advisors and clients navigate the maze of coverage options, why understanding your unique health and financial situation matters, and how to avoid common pitfalls, like choosing plans based solely on price or following advice that isn’t tailored to your needs. Key Takeaways: Why health insurance is a top concern for retirees and entrepreneurs The importance of education and healthcare literacy How Move Health empowers advisors and clients with real data and objective advice The difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans Why working with a trusted, objective partner is crucial Call to Action: Don’t let health insurance be a source of stress or confusion. Seek out education, ask questions, and make sure you’re working with someone who puts your best interests first. If you’re unsure about your coverage, get informed and don’t be afraid to ask for help.🅿️ For more DTS content check out our PatreonThanks to our sponsor, S.E.E.D. Planning Group! S.E.E.D. is a fee-only financial planning firm with a fiduciary obligation to put your best interest first. Schedule your free discovery meeting at www.seedpg.com📧 For more information or to get in touch with us, visit https://www.ditchthesuits.comAbout Your Host:Travis Maus has been in financial services for over fifteen years. He is a Senior Wealth Manager and Chief Executive Officer at S.E.E.D. Planning Group. Travis also hosts the Unleashing Leadership Podcast, where he dissects some of his favorite books on leadership and how you can apply it to your business or life.  

In this episode of Ditch the Suits, we are going to dig deeper into the question: Is the middle class truly disappearing in America? Building on last episode’s discussion of statistics and public opinion, we’ll examine the long-term trends from 1980 to 2020, breaking down how shifts in income, demographics, and retirement patterns have impacted the middle class. We are going to challenge the narrative of a shrinking middle class and encourage you to focus on your own financial journey rather than getting caught up in comparisons or hype. 🅿️ For more DTS content check out our PatreonThanks to our sponsor, S.E.E.D. Planning Group! S.E.E.D. is a fee-only financial planning firm with a fiduciary obligation to put your best interest first. Schedule your free discovery meeting at www.seedpg.com📧 For more information or to get in touch with us, visit https://www.ditchthesuits.comAbout Your Host:Travis Maus has been in financial services for over fifteen years. He is a Senior Wealth Manager and Chief Executive Officer at S.E.E.D. Planning Group. Travis also hosts the Unleashing Leadership Podcast, where he dissects some of his favorite books on leadership and how you can apply it to your business or life.

In this episode of Ditch the Suits, we are going to dive deep into the evolving story of the American middle class, exploring why it’s shrinking, why that matters, and what you can actually do about it. You’ll hear both sides of the debate: the familiar narrative that the middle class is disappearing as the rich get richer, and a counter-narrative that challenges those assumptions with fresh data and perspective. We’ll break down arguments and examine whether the “shrinking middle class” is really a crisis or simply a sign of changing times. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of what’s really happening, why it impacts you, and how you can take control of your financial future. 🅿️ For more DTS content check out our PatreonThanks to our sponsor, S.E.E.D. Planning Group! S.E.E.D. is a fee-only financial planning firm with a fiduciary obligation to put your best interest first. Schedule your free discovery meeting at www.seedpg.com📧 For more information or to get in touch with us, visit https://www.ditchthesuits.comAbout Your Host:Travis Maus has been in financial services for over fifteen years. He is a Senior Wealth Manager and Chief Executive Officer at S.E.E.D. Planning Group. Travis also hosts the Unleashing Leadership Podcast, where he dissects some of his favorite books on leadership and how you can apply it to your business or life.

Introduction In this episode, we sit down with Dan Kain, Senior Wealth Manager from S.E.E.D. Planning Group, to tackle one of the most misunderstood aspects of financial planning: how advisors get paid and what real value looks like at every stage of wealth. We break down the myths around fees, commissions, and the true cost of financial advice, especially for smaller investors. This episode is all about empowering you to make informed decisions about your money and your life by exposing industry practices and clarifying what you should expect from a transparent, fiduciary advisor.  Key Topics Covered 1. Misconceptions About Advisor Compensation Many people believe the size of their portfolio should dictate how much they pay an advisor. For example, someone with $5,000 may think they should pay far less than someone with $1 million, but the reality is that smaller accounts can require just as much, if not more, work. There’s a common misunderstanding about what services are provided and how much work comprehensive planning actually takes, regardless of account size.  2. The Challenge for Small Investors Small investors often face unique challenges. It can be hard for them to work with fee-only advisors, and they are more vulnerable to practices like “churning,” where advisors repeatedly sell products just to earn commissions, often at the client’s expense. This cycle can keep small investors from growing their wealth, as excessive fees and poor investment performance from structured products eat away at their returns.  3. The Value of Fiduciary Advice Paying a fiduciary advisor, even if it seems like a higher upfront cost, can be crucial for long-term growth. Fiduciaries are legally obligated to act in your best interest, and their guidance is based on experience and a deep understanding of your unique situation. The value you receive isn’t just about the time spent; it’s about the expertise and the hundreds of similar situations your advisor has navigated before. Implementing their advice can lead to significant improvements in your financial situation, sometimes by six or seven figures.  4. Comprehensive Planning Goes Beyond Account Size The amount of money you have doesn’t always correlate with the complexity of your planning needs. Someone with less money might have more complicated estate or tax planning issues than a wealthier client whose finances are on autopilot. An effective process involves digging into the details of each client’s life to determine the real scope of work required, not just basing it on the size of their portfolio.  5. The Emotional and Practical Value of Professional Advice Many clients are frustrated by the cost of planning, especially if it’s their first time working with a professional. But the real value comes from the advisor’s experience, ability to see the big picture, and the potential to improve your financial outcomes. If you’re only looking for free advice or don’t see the value in paying for expertise, you may miss out on opportunities to significantly improve your financial future.  Conclusion This episode is an educational look at the realities of financial advisor compensation and the true value of fiduciary advice. Whether you’re just starting out or have significant assets, understanding how advisors are paid and what you’re really getting for your money is essential. By focusing on transparency, expertise, and a client-centered approach, you can make smarter decisions and set yourself up for long-term financial success.  

Introduction In this episode, Travis sits down with Dan Kain, Senior Wealth Manager from S.E.E.D. Planning Group, to dig into the transformation from a traditional financial advisor to a truly holistic planner. This isn’t just about changing job titles, it’s about evolving how we serve people, mastering new skills, and building trust through every step of the financial planning process. Whether you’re a financial pro or just curious about what it takes to guide clients through meaningful decisions, this episode offers a candid look at the ongoing learning and adaptability required in our field.  Professional Transition: From Company Guy to Client-Centered Advisor Dan shares his experience moving from a company-focused financial advisor role to one that puts the client’s whole life at the center. The transition wasn’t just about learning new technical skills, it was about shifting perspective and embracing a more collaborative, team-based approach. The Art of Holistic Planning Holistic planning means seeing how all the pieces fit together, including taxes, investments, estate plans, and more. Dan describes how these areas are interconnected, and how mastering them requires thousands of hours of experience and countless “reps.” Building trust is essential. Clients may have similar financial profiles, but their personalities, communication styles, and learning preferences are unique. The best planners adapt their advice to each client’s needs, treating every person as an individual rather than just another account.  Why Human Advisors Matter We talk about the limitations of algorithms and artificial intelligence in financial planning. While technology can replace bad advisors or those unwilling to learn, it can’t replicate the nuanced, relationship-driven work of a good planner. Every client’s situation is unique, and the ability to guide them through complex, emotionally charged decisions is an experience-based skill that can’t be automated.  Ongoing Growth and Learning Dan emphasizes that the journey to becoming a holistic planner is never finished. The learning never stops. Changes in tax laws, estate rules, and investment strategies mean that every year brings new challenges and opportunities to grow. True expertise isn’t just technical knowledge - it’s knowing how to ask the right questions, prioritizing today versus tomorrow, and position advice to be genuinely advantageous for each client.  Conclusion This episode is an educational, and empowering look at what it really takes to become a holistic financial planner. It’s about more than just technical expertise, a good financial planner needs to build trust, adapt to each client’s unique situation, and commit to lifelong learning. If you’re ready to get more out of your money and life, this episode will help you see the value of working with a planner who’s dedicated to your success, every step of the way.