The Future of Finance

AI is everywhere right now—but should you trust it with your financial future?In this episode of The Future of Finance, Marissa Wood sits down with industry expert Dee Costa to break down the real role of AI in financial planning—what it’s great at, where it falls short, and how to use it the right way.From budgeting and goal-setting to emotional decision-making and life events, this episode shows why AI is a powerful tool—but not a replacement for human advice.🤖 Learn how to use AI to prepare for financial meetings 📊 Discover what AI can (and can’t) do with your money 💡 Understand why strategy, discipline, and accountability still matter most🤖 What You’ll Learn How to use AI as a tool (not a crutch) The biggest mistakes people make relying on AI Why financial planning is more emotional than logical How to prepare for a meeting with a financial advisor The real secret to building wealth: consistency over time💬 Which tip are you starting with this week? Drop a comment and let us know.👍 Like, subscribe, and share if you want more money strategies made simple.

What does a former undercover police officer know about financial planning? More than you’d think.In this episode of The Future of Finance, Marissa Wood sits down with Chris Wood, financial advisor and former narcotics detective, to break down how crisis response, risk management, and preparation translate directly into your financial life.From emergency funds to market crashes, taxes, and life’s unexpected moments—this episode shows why the best financial plans aren’t reactive… they’re prepared.🚨 Learn how to build a crisis-ready financial plan 📉 Understand the risks that can quietly destroy your future 🧠 Discover why staying calm (not reacting) is your biggest advantage🚨 What You’ll Learn How to build a financial plan that can handle real-life emergencies The biggest risks most people don’t plan for (but should) Why income planning > account balance The difference between reacting emotionally vs responding strategically The first step everyone should take this week to improve their finances💬 Which tip are you starting with this week? Drop a comment and let us know.👍 Like, subscribe, and share if you want more money strategies made simple.⏱️ Episode Timestamps00:00 – Intro: Crisis response meets financial planning 00:45 – Meet Chris Wood: From police officer to financial advisor 01:39 – Serving people in different ways: protection in life vs finance 02:11 – What undercover police work teaches about planning for risk 03:10 – Why you can’t plan for everything—but you still must prepare 04:14 – Markets, life events, and “things going wonky” 05:00 – Staying calm: why emotional reactions destroy plans 06:02 – Confidence comes from preparation and repetition 06:46 – The role of financial advisors: risk managers, not just investors 07:08 – Biggest risks: legislation, markets, and black swan events 07:56 – Sequence of returns risk explained (and why timing matters) 08:56 – Longevity risk: the longer you live, the more can go wrong 09:46 – Real-life financial emergencies (and why planning ahead matters)11:30 – When it’s too late: procrastination and missed opportunities 12:21 – What a “crisis-ready” financial plan actually includes 14:28 – Why every financial plan must be personalized 14:42 – Emergency funds: your first line of defense 15:19 – Life insurance: protection against the unexpected 16:20 – Beneficiaries, power of attorney, and planning basics 17:50 – Why income planning matters more than account balances 18:54 – Social Security myths and income gaps 20:04 – The “widow’s trap” most couples overlook 22:02 – Done is better than perfect: take action now 23:02 – Financial blind spots: lifestyle creep in retirement 24:53 – Taxes: the silent drain on your wealth 27:24 – Reacting vs responding: the mindset shift that changes everything 29:13 – The #1 action step: know your monthly expenses 30:21 – Emergency fund goal: 6 months of expenses 31:03 – Debt management and reducing financial stress32:23 – Final takeaway: don’t wait for urgency to force action

Every generation faces unique financial challenges—but what are the biggest money mistakes they keep making? In this episode of The Future of Finance, financial experts Marissa Wood and Lisa Green reveal the top financial pitfalls across Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z—and share the exact strategies to avoid them.From ignoring long-term care to overspending on credit cards, this episode breaks down real-life examples, practical tools, and actionable tips to help you take control of your financial future—no matter your age.🎯 Topics Covered: Long-term care & estate planning Retirement readiness by generation Prioritizing your kids vs. your own future Credit card debt & Gen Z struggles How to start investing (even with little money) Smart tax-free retirement strategies📌 Ready to take action? Visit union-financial.com to book a free consultation today.👥 For one-on-one planning with Marissa or Lisa: https://www.union-financial.com/➡️ Phone • Zoom • In-person available⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: Why Financial Mistakes Differ By Generation02:00 – Baby Boomers’ #1 Mistake: No Long-Term Care Planning04:30 – How Estate Planning & Annuities Can Help Boomers08:00 – Why Boomers Must Introduce Their Financial Advisor to Family11:00 – Gen X’s Mistake: Prioritizing Kids Over Their Own Retirement13:00 – The Cost of Withdrawing from a 401(k) Too Early15:30 – Maxing Out Retirement Plans the Right Way18:00 – Millennials’ Mistake: Delaying Investing20:30 – Understanding Dollar Cost Averaging for Beginners22:00 – Why Roth IRAs & IULs Are Crucial for Millennials26:30 – Budgeting, Emergency Funds & Spending Habits28:30 – Gen Z’s Pitfall: Credit Cards & Instant Gratification31:30 – Why Gen Z Should Start a Roth IRA Now

Feeling like you're behind with money in your 20s or 30s? You’re not alone—and you’re not failing.  In this episode of The Future of Finance, Marissa Wood breaks down 5 easy, high-impact financial moves you can implement in the next 90 days to build wealth early and avoid common financial pitfalls.  From understanding why budgets aren’t diets to leveraging compound interest and employer 401(k) matches, this episode is your go-to guide for getting on track without feeling overwhelmed. ✅ Key Takeaways- Budgeting is lifelong, not temporary- Starting early with investing unlocks the power of compounding- Employer match is free money—take it- Diversify beyond your 401(k)- Life insurance is cheaper when you don’t need it (yet)- Taking action matters more than perfection

Annuities are one of the most misunderstood words in finance—and in this episode of The Future of Finance, Marissa Wood and Lisa Green break down exactly what they are, how they’ve evolved (think cell phones!), and how they can help you lock in income for life, protect against market losses, and even cover long-term care.Whether you’ve heard horror stories or you’re curious if annuities could fit into your retirement plan, this episode gives you real answers, real examples, and real clarity—without the industry jargon.📞 Ready to explore what an annuity could look like in your plan? Schedule a free call: https://www.union-financial.com🔍 What You’ll Learn: What annuities really are (not the scary kind you’ve heard about) Why they're gaining popularity with all age groups The difference between fixed, indexed, and variable annuities How to get guaranteed income for life Why many clients feel peace of mind (and live longer!) after buying one💬 Question for You  Have you ever considered an annuity—or do you think they’re all bad? Drop your thoughts and questions in the comments!👍 Like, subscribe, and share this episode if you learned something new.

Becoming a parent changes everything—including your finances. In this episode, we break down 5 essential financial tips every new parent should know, from budgeting and saving to planning for the future. Simple, practical advice to help you feel confident and prepared.

Climbing the mountain of retirement is hard—but the descent is where most people fall. Literally.In this eye-opening episode of The Future of Finance, Marissa Wood sits down with Sam Payne, a financial advisor with 40+ years of experience, to uncover the five hidden threats that can destroy your retirement plan if you’re not prepared.From taxes and inflation to sequence of returns and long-term care, this is not a scare tactic—it’s your survival guide for making your money last as long as you do.

In this special Q&A episode of The Future of Finance, host Marissa Wood tackles real questions from real listeners—covering job transitions, forgotten 401(k)s, emergency funds, retirement benchmarks, and how the 2025 Fed rate cut could affect your wallet.Whether you’re changing jobs, building your first emergency fund, or wondering how to adjust your investments as rates shift, this episode delivers clear, actionable advice.✅ Got your own question? Book a free call with Marissa at https://union-financial.com and get personalized guidance—Zoom, phone, or in-person.

Being your own boss comes with incredible freedom—but also serious financial responsibility. In this episode of The Future of Finance, Marissa Wood and Lisa Green from Union Financial Services dive deep into what every self-employed person needs to know to plan for a secure future.From setting up retirement plans and understanding Medicare penalties, to leveraging HSAs and preparing for emergencies, this is your one-stop-shop for building a smart, sustainable financial life as an entrepreneur, 1099 contractor, or small business owner.If you’re wondering how to build your own pension, how to reduce taxes as a business owner, or how to prepare for the unexpected—don’t miss this conversation.👉 Book a free consultation: https://union-financial.com⏱️ Timestamps0:00 – Intro: Why this episode matters for the self-employed1:10 – The shocking retirement stat: 40% of self-employed save nothing2:15 – SEP IRAs: What they are and how they reduce your taxes3:52 – SIMPLE Plans for small teams: A 401(k)-like solution5:12 – How small biz employees get personalized retirement plans7:47 – Individual 401(k)s: Double the contributions, double the tax benefits9:00 – Retaining talent through retirement benefits10:35 – Roth IRAs for kids? Yep, it’s legal and powerful12:10 – The #1 expense for self-employed people: Health insurance15:15 – Medicare trap: Why your income at 63 really matters18:00 – Triple tax advantage of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)19:34 – Don’t forget quarterly tax payments (and how to plan for them)22:23 – Emergency funds: Why your business needs one too25:02 – Disability & indemnity insurance: Prepare for the worst28:17 – Can self-employed people get a pension? Yes—here’s how30:44 – The reality of self-employment: Best parts & biggest challenges32:25 – Final thoughts + how to schedule a personal consultation32:51 – How to book a free meeting with Union Financial Services

In this expert-packed episode of The Future of Finance, Marissa Wood welcomes Mark DiOrio, Chief Investment Officer at Brookstone Capital Management, to unpack everything from 2025’s wild stock market to AI dominance, dividend stock strategies, buffered ETFs, and crypto access without the chaos.Whether you're an investor trying to make sense of this year's tech surge—or an advisor wanting to diversify your portfolio beyond the Magnificent Ten—this episode brings the clarity you’ve been craving.🧠 Learn what actually worked in 2025📈 Discover what to expect in 2026🔍 Get portfolio strategies from one of the nation’s top CIOs⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Intro: Meet Mark DiOrio, CIO at Brookstone01:45 – Brookstone Capital Management: Who they are & what they do02:36 – What a Chief Investment Officer actually does05:05 – How Brookstone helps advisors offer high-level strategies06:14 – Market recap: What happened in 202510:03 – AI, tech stocks, and market leadership12:18 – Will AI dominate in 2026—or will the rest of the market catch up?13:57 – Why diversification still matters—even in an AI-driven world15:23 – Clients want more tech, but advisors need to manage expectations17:27 – Avoiding headline investing: How to stay strategic, not emotional18:22 – Core + Satellite portfolios: The Brookstone approach20:04 – Matching risk profiles to core strategies22:43 – Satellite strategy 1: Dividend Growth Value Baskets25:38 – Why baskets work better than DIY stock picking28:58 – Satellite strategy 2: Buffered ETFs explained32:15 – Liquidity + protection: Why some clients prefer buffers34:03 – Satellite strategy 3: Crypto via ETF Exposure38:29 – Crypto like gold: Exposure without the complexity39:44 – How other advisors can partner with Brookstone40:31 – Final thoughts: Insights heading into 2026

Most people know to see a doctor when something changes with their health—but what about your financial health?In this episode of The Future of Finance, host Marissa Wood shares the 10 most important life events that should signal it’s time to meet with a financial advisor. Whether you’ve changed jobs, gotten married, received an inheritance, or are nearing retirement, your financial strategy needs to evolve with your life.This episode is packed with practical advice for every life stage, from growing families to recent retirees. If you’ve experienced any major life change lately—this one’s for you.📞 Schedule your check-in at https://union-financial.com🎯 Free Zoom, phone, or in-person consultations available.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Intro: What health and finance have in common01:00 – Why major life events = time for a financial checkupUFS_Rec 4_10 Life Events For Fi…01:25 – 1. Job Change: Rollover old 401(k)s, set up new plans03:00 – 2. Marriage: New tax brackets, budgets, and combining finances04:10 – 3. Moving: Update your address and invest home equity05:45 – 4. New Child: College savings, custodial accounts, life insurance07:12 – 5. Paying Off Debt: What to do with that freed-up cash08:14 – 6. Inheritance or Lawsuit Settlement: How to avoid blowing a windfall10:31 – 7. Divorce: Protecting your new financial reality11:35 – 8. Loss of a Spouse: Estate transfers, income loss, and mistakes to avoid14:06 – 9. Turning 59½: Access retirement accounts with no penalties15:57 – 10. Retirement: Planning your income, Social Security, and legacy17:12 – Key Takeaway: Life doesn't stand still—your financial plan shouldn't either17:51 – How to book a free meeting with Union Financial Services✅ Bonus Resources:💼 Roll over a 401(k)🧒 Open a 529 or custodial account🛡️ Set up life insurance💵 Inheritance investment strategies🔁 In-service rollovers after 59½📈 Maximize Social Security decisions👍 Like, share, and subscribe for practical financial strategies built for real life.🔔 New episodes drop every other Thursday on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.

What if debt wasn’t the enemy—but your greatest tool for building wealth?In this powerful episode of The Future of Finance, host Marissa Wood sits down with mortgage expert Jason Johnson of Sun Point Home Loans to uncover how the wealthy use strategic borrowing to grow their net worth. From celebrity mortgage moves to bridge loans and amortization tricks, Jason shares 22 years of experience to help everyday homeowners and aspiring investors make smarter financial decisions.Whether you’re a first-time buyer, investor, or just looking to refinance the right way—this episode is packed with actionable insights.👉 Need a mortgage consultation?Reach out to Jason at (813) 781-2744 or search "Jason Johnson SunPoint Home Loans" to see his 400+ 5-star reviews.💬 Ready to talk investing, life insurance, or retirement strategy? Book a meeting at UnionFinancial.com⏱️ Timestamps0:00 - Intro: Why the wealthy love debt1:05 - Jason’s journey from carpenter to mortgage broker2:20 - Why celebrities (like Meghan & Harry) take mortgages3:50 - The power of leverage and investment returns5:00 - How to get pre-approved for a mortgage6:20 - How much house can you actually afford?8:00 - What is a HELOC and when should you use one?10:00 - Refinancing: When does it make sense?13:15 - What to do with your savings after refinancing14:30 - How amortization works and how to beat it17:15 - Recasting: The mortgage trick no one talks about20:00 - Why life insurance is a must with a mortgage22:20 - Jason’s best & worst financial decisions26:00 - What first-time buyers and investors need to know27:00 - Bridge loans: A powerful strategy for movers and investors29:00 - Florida’s Hometown Heroes program explained30:30 - How to get in touch with Jason and Marissa

In this episode...

In this episode of The Future of Finance, Marissa Wood welcomes policy expert and financial advisor Todd Manternach to break down what’s being called “The One Big Beautiful Bill”—and why it could have a serious impact on your finances.They unpack changes in tax policy, new savings opportunities, how the bill impacts different generations (from Gen Z to Boomers), and why this could be the best time to rethink your strategy on Roth conversions, 529 plans, and Social Security.If you've ever wondered how legislation really affects your wallet, this is the episode to watch.⏱ Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: What is "The One Big Beautiful Bill"?01:00 – Meet Todd Manternach: 30+ Years of Financial Wisdom02:00 – Plain-English Breakdown: What This Bill Actually Does03:30 – Why the 2017 Tax Cuts Needed to Be Extended04:50 – How This Impacts Taxes, Childcare, Healthcare & Student Loans06:00 – What Families with Children Can Expect to Save06:45 – Do You Need to Do Anything to Get These Tax Breaks?07:15 – Generation-Specific Strategies: Gen Z, Millennials, and More09:30 – Real-Life Impact: How One Client's Overtime Just Got More Valuable11:10 – Social Security & Taxes: What's Changing and What’s Not13:00 – The “Trump Accounts” (aka New Child Investment Accounts) Explained15:30 – 529 Plans: New Rules, New Flexibility17:00 – What Is a Roth IRA & Why the Government Limits It18:30 – Roth Conversions for Gen Xers: The Sweet Spot22:30 – The Rule of 72: How to Estimate When Your Money Doubles24:45 – Tax Breaks on Cars Made in the USA26:00 – Will This Bill Narrow or Widen the Wealth Gap?27:15 – Biggest Myths About the Bill—Debunked30:00 – Final Thoughts: Generational Wealth Starts with Legislation31:30 – How to Connect with Todd or Union Financial Services📌 Mentioned in This Episode:✔️ Roth IRAs & Roth Conversions✔️ Trump Accounts (working title)✔️ 529 Plan to Roth IRA rollover✔️ Rule of 72: Doubling your money✔️ USA-made EV tax incentives🎯 Ready to get clarity on your plan?📅 Schedule your free consultation today at https://union-financial.com💬 Drop a comment below:What’s one change from the bill you’re most excited (or confused) about?👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay up to date with smart financial conversations—built for real life.

In this solo Q&A episode of The Future of Finance, Marissa Wood, co-founder of Union Financial Services, tackles your most pressing financial questions with clarity and real-life examples. From daily coffee habits to mortgage payoffs and investing for your kids’ futures, this episode breaks down key concepts in a way that’s easy to understand—and apply.Whether you're just starting your financial journey or already investing, this is the perfect episode to fine-tune your strategy and build confidence in your money decisions.⏱ Timestamps:0:00 – Intro: Marissa’s Listener Q&A Special0:32 – Does Buying Coffee Daily Really Hurt Your Financial Future?2:07 – What Skipping Coffee Could Be Worth in 30 Years3:34 – Tips for Saving on Coffee Without Giving It Up4:21 – What Is the S&P 500 & Why It Matters6:05 – What Is a Stock, Really? Ownership Explained8:06 – What’s the Difference Between a Stock and a Mutual Fund?10:33 – Diversifying Through Mutual Funds vs. Individual Stocks11:08 – Should I Pay Off My Car or Invest Instead?14:00 – How Much Investment Risk Should You Take On?15:46 – Understanding Target Retirement Date Funds17:16 – Should I Put Extra Toward My Mortgage Each Month?20:19 – New Baby? What to Do Financially to Set Your Child Up for Success🔗 Ready to take the first step? Visit https://www.union-financial.com/  to schedule a free consultation.💬 If this episode moved you or gave you a new perspective, please like, comment, and share it with someone who needs to hear this.

What if you could retire with tax-free income, leave millions to your heirs, and not give Uncle Sam a dime?In this episode of The Future of Finance, Marissa Wood sits down with financial industry veteran Marty Willenborg, who shares powerful strategies using life insurance, premium financing, and the Kaizen concept to create wealth, preserve it, and pass it on—without the IRS taking a cut. If you're skeptical about whether life insurance can be more than just a death benefit, this episode will change your mind.⏱ Timestamps:0:00 – Intro: Meet Marty Willenborg & His 44-Year Financial Journey1:00 – How a Cancer Diagnosis Changed Marty’s Life—and Career4:00 – The Harsh Truth About Life Insurance When You Need It6:15 – Why Annual Policy Reviews Are Non-Negotiable9:35 – Living Benefits: How Life Insurance Is More Than a Death Benefit10:05 – Term vs. Permanent Insurance: The Real Cost of “Cheap”11:30 – What Is Indexed Universal Life (IUL)? Explained Simply13:20 – The Kaizen Strategy: Tax-Free Income Using Bank Leverage15:10 – How the Kaizen Plan Works (Step-by-Step)17:40 – Real Example: $125K In, $7M Out (Tax-Free)21:55 – “Is This Too Good to Be True?”—Addressing the Top Objection24:00 – 401(k)s vs. IULs: Tax Implications You Need to Know25:00 – Can’t Do Kaizen? LIRPs & Legacy Planning Options for All Budgets26:30 – How to Set Your Kids or Grandkids Up with Millions (G-Suite Strategy)28:30 – Final Thoughts: Stop Giving Your Legacy to the IRS🔗 Ready to take the first step? Visit https://www.union-financial.com/  to schedule a free consultation.💬 If this episode moved you or gave you a new perspective, please like, comment, and share it with someone who needs to hear this.

Welcome to another episode of The Future of Finance, where host Marissa Wood and co-host Lisa Green bring together their two favorite F-words: Football and Finance! 🏈💸With fantasy football season in full swing, Marissa and Lisa use powerful, fun analogies between football positions and investment strategies to help you rethink your portfolio.Are you running a team of all tight ends? 😬 Are you missing a defense? 🤯 Do you even have a kicker? This episode will show you how to create a diversified financial team that wins — on and off the field.🔁 Watch, learn, and maybe even win a gift card if you can guess the mystery play shown in the video. 🏆⏱ Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: Finance meets Fantasy Football01:10 – What do Tom Brady and your finances have in common?02:45 – The role of the financial coach (Hint: It's not the QB)04:20 – Running Backs = Dividend Stocks explained06:30 – Wide Receivers = Growth Stocks (High risk, high reward)08:30 – Tight Ends = Mutual Funds & ETFs (Versatile & balanced)11:30 – Defense = Fixed Indexed Annuities (Your market protection)14:50 – Kickers = CDs and MYGAs (Predictable and steady)17:10 – Return Specialists = Crypto & REITs (Boom or bust)20:00 – Backups = Life Insurance (Don’t wait for an emergency)23:00 – Do you only have tight ends in your 401(k)? Let’s fix that.25:30 – Final thoughts + Gift Card Challenge: Can you name the play?📣 If you liked this fun approach to finance, hit the like button and comment your favorite football team! 💼 Need a coach for your financial future? Visit https://union-financial.com to schedule a call.🎧 Subscribe for more episodes blending real life with real money conversations—every other Thursday.

In this deeply emotional and insightful episode of The Future of Finance, host Marissa Wood sits down with industry veteran and business coach Dee Costa. With 40+ years in financial services and personal experiences with profound loss, Dee shares why financial planning is about more than numbers—it's about love, protection, and peace of mind.💔 Hear the story of how sudden tragedy shaped Dee's mission to help others. 💡 Learn why proper planning can change lives—not just financially, but emotionally too. ✅ Discover actionable steps to protect your loved ones with life insurance, estate planning, and long-term care strategies.⏱ Timestamps:0:00 – Welcome & Episode Overview 1:00 – The Pink Slip That Changed Everything 2:45 – The Phone Call: “Your Father is Gone” 4:15 – “Am I Going to Be Okay?” – The Question That Sparked a Mission 5:10 – The Financial Fallout of Losing a Spouse 6:45 – Dee’s Husband’s Passing & The Power of Preparation 9:00 – Why Women Need to Plan for Financial Independence 10:30 – The Emotional & Financial Toll of Loss 12:00 – Living Too Long: Planning for Long-Term Care 13:45 – Social Security: What You Might Not Realize 15:00 – Life Insurance & Annuities: Real Protection Stories 17:00 – A Young Widow’s Story: Why Planning Matters 21:00 – Estate Planning Essentials: It’s Not Just for the Wealthy 23:00 – Get Your House in Order—Out of Love, Not Fear 26:00 – Why Both Spouses Must Be Involved in Financial Planning 28:00 – First Steps: How to Start Planning with a Financial Advisor 30:00 – Final Words of Encouragement: It’s Never Too Early to Start🔗 Ready to take the first step? Visit https://union-financial.com to schedule a free consultation.💬 If this episode moved you or gave you a new perspective, please like, comment, and share it with someone who needs to hear this.