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The Money Advantage Podcast

The Money Advantage Podcast

321 episodes — Page 3 of 7

Protecting Your Intellectual Property: Why Every Entrepreneur Must Safeguard Their Ideas

What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think of wealth? For most people, it’s tangible—money in the bank, real estate, stocks, or physical assets. But let me introduce you to a critical concept that doesn’t always get enough attention: intellectual property (IP). Today, I’m diving into why it matters and how it can make or break your business. Are you protecting your intellectual property by taking the necessary steps to ensure your ideas are protected and monetized? https://www.youtube.com/live/8qJefZzioqE Author and entrepreneur Kary Oberbrunner has made it his mission to help people protect their ideas, brands, and creative work. In our conversation, Kary shared some powerful lessons and strategies about IP that every business owner, entrepreneur, and even everyday creator needs to understand. The Surprising Truth About Protecting Your Intellectual Property Kary kicked off the conversation with a mind-blowing statistic. Back in 1975, only 17% of the S&P 500’s assets were intangible—things like patents, trademarks, and other IP. Fast forward to today, and a staggering 90% of the value of those same companies is now tied up in intangible assets. In fact, by 2024, they estimate this number to be as high as 96%! If that doesn’t get your attention, I don’t know what will. In short, the world has shifted. We’re no longer in a world where physical assets dominate. Instead, your ideas, your brand, and your processes are often your most valuable business assets. And yet, many of us overlook the importance of protecting them. About Kary OberbrunnerWhy You Must Protect Your IdeasUnderstand the Value of Your Intellectual PropertyTiming is Everything in Protecting Your Intellectual PropertyProtecting Your Intellectual Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated or ExpensiveProtecting Your Intellectual Property is an Ongoing ProcessProtect What’s Yours, Before It’s Too LateTake Control of Your Intellectual Property TodayBook A Strategy Call About Kary Oberbrunner KARY OBERBRUNNER is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author of 14 books. As CEO of Igniting Souls® and Instant IP™ he helps abundant-minded & coachable-competent entrepreneurs PUBLISH, PROTECT, and PROMOTE their intellectual property and turn it into 18 streams of income so they can change the world. An award-winning novelist, screenwriter, and inventor, he’s been featured in Entrepreneur, Forbes, CBS, Fox News, Yahoo, and many other major media outlets. His TEDx has been viewed over 1 million times. As a young man, he suffered from severe stuttering, depression, and self-injury. Today a transformed man, Kary ignites souls: speaking internationally on a variety of topics and consulting the world's top entrepreneurs and brands regarding publishing, protecting, and promoting intellectual property. He has several earned degrees, including a Bachelor of Arts, Masters in Divinity, and Doctorate in Transformational Leadership. He also serves as the Berry Chair of Entrepreneurship at Cedarville University, where he teaches on the topics of Entrepreneurship and Digital Marketing. Why You Must Protect Your Ideas If you’re a business owner or an entrepreneur, you already know that your ideas, your innovations, and your unique ways of doing things are what set you apart. But here’s the challenge: most of us don’t think about protecting those ideas until it’s too late. That’s why this conversation with Kary Oberbrunner was so important. His focus on helping businesses recognize their intellectual property as their greatest asset—and protecting it—was eye-opening. What if someone came along and copied your brand, your process, or your proprietary method? Without protection, you could find yourself out of business or stuck in a legal battle. But protecting your IP is not just for giant companies like Apple or Nike. It’s something we all need to think about—whether you’re running a family business, a startup, or a solo enterprise. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the key takeaways from our interview with Kary, the importance of safeguarding your intellectual property, and how you can take steps today to protect what’s yours. Understand the Value of Your Intellectual Property One of the most critical takeaways from Kary’s insight is recognizing that IP is everywhere in your business. It’s not just about big patents or complex legal maneuvers. It’s the small things that make your business unique—your brand, your processes, your customer interactions. Kary shared an example from his own experiences: a guy he met who worked with major brands like Disney and Lego but didn’t realize that his entire business was built on IP. He thought his ideas weren’t worth protecting. This is a common trap. As Kary said, "You can’t read the label when you’re inside the jar." Often, we don’t see the immense value in our everyday business operations until someone else tries to take them. Whether it’s a unique way of attracting customers, a proprietary

Oct 28, 202434 min

The Problem with Financial Planning

Let me start with a story that highlights the problem with financial planning today. A colleague of mine works diligently as a financial advisor, and he schedules days to meet with employees about their 401(k)s. He’s prepared to offer invaluable advice, set up one-on-one meetings, and answer pressing questions. Yet, out of 50 employees, only four show up. https://www.youtube.com/live/i4NH3UgbDlU Why? The truth is, many people don’t take ownership of their financial future. We’re bombarded with information from YouTube videos, TikTok influencers, or even well-meaning friends, but when it comes time to sit down and make decisions, we hesitate. Too many of us leave our future to chance or to others without truly understanding the options available to us. The result? Missed opportunities and financial stress. Shifting Your Financial ParadigmUnderstanding The Problem with Financial PlanningThe Risks of Deferring TaxesThe Myth of "Set It and Forget It" InvestmentsThe Power of Financial EducationExploring Alternative Financial StrategiesWhy Rethinking Financial Planning MattersTake Control Today Shifting Your Financial Paradigm Today I want to talk about a concept that might be unfamiliar to you—rethinking how you approach financial planning. Most people stick to the typical paths because it’s comfortable. We invest in 401(k)s, we defer taxes, and we hope everything works out when retirement rolls around. But here’s the hard truth: the problem with financial planning lies in its limited scope. It often relies on outdated assumptions, overlooks the impact of taxes and inflation, and can leave you vulnerable to market fluctuations. What we’re offering in this blog is a new lens to view your financial journey, one that empowers you to make more informed, strategic decisions that truly align with your goals. If you want to take your financial life to the next level, you’re in the right place. Understanding The Problem with Financial Planning What most people call financial planning is often limited to a narrow set of strategies: employer-sponsored retirement accounts, stock market investments, and savings. These options seem like safe bets—after all, they’ve been recommended for decades. But the problem with financial planning in this typical model is that it ignores key risks, like market downturns, future tax hikes, and the hidden costs of inflation. Typical financial planning often revolves around making predictions about things you can’t control. You’re asked to guess your future income, how long you’ll live, and what kind of returns you’ll see in the market. While this may work for some, the reality is that building a financial plan on assumptions can create a shaky foundation. Consider this: many financial advisors lean heavily on historical data, like the belief that the stock market averages a 7% return. But those averages span over a century. Your investing timeline might only be 30 years, and within that period, the market could behave very differently. You might face prolonged periods of low or even negative returns that derail your entire plan. The problem with financial planning here is that it assumes a one-size-fits-all approach. The Risks of Deferring Taxes One of the biggest misconceptions in typical financial planning is the idea that deferring taxes through 401(k)s and IRAs is the best way to minimize your tax burden. The thinking goes like this: defer taxes now when you’re in a higher bracket and pay them later when you’re in a lower one. However, this strategy ignores a critical factor—the potential for future tax increases. As we often discuss, the U.S. debt is skyrocketing, and at some point, those taxes will have to go up to pay for it. So, while you may think you’re saving by deferring taxes today, you could be setting yourself up for a larger tax bill down the road when you need the money the most. This is yet another angle of the problem with financial planning that relies too much on assumptions and hopes rather than certainty. The Myth of "Set It and Forget It" Investments Another pitfall of typical financial planning is the idea that once you set up your investments, you can just let them ride. Many employer-sponsored plans even offer target-date funds that automatically adjust your portfolio as you age, shifting from stocks to bonds to reduce risk. On paper, this sounds great—less risk as you near retirement. But what happens when bonds, traditionally considered safe, underperform due to rising interest rates? Or what if inflation erodes your purchasing power faster than your bond investments can keep up? In reality, no investment is foolproof, and a “set it and forget it” approach often leaves people exposed to unforeseen risks. This passive approach to planning only deepens the problem with financial planning that assumes a steady, predictable market environment. The Power of Financial Education If you take nothing else from this conversation, remember this: the mor

Oct 21, 202459 min

Famous at Home with Josh Straub

https://www.youtube.com/live/qPXJGJyg7z8 Have you ever had a moment where you suddenly realized that what truly matters isn’t all the hustle, the accomplishments, or even the legacy you’re trying so hard to build? That was Josh, standing in his driveway on a vacation in Florida, juggling his entrepreneurial dreams while feeling the weight of parenting. He was caught in that mental struggle we all face—balancing the demands of work and family, trying to get everything done while making sure He's present for the moments that really matter. Then a friend said something that stopped him in my tracks: “You’ll never have a six-month-old son again.” Those words hit him hard. It wasn’t just a reminder about the fleeting nature of time; it was a call to be present, to focus on what truly matters—his family—a call to be famous at home. Why Emotional Safety is the Key to SuccessAbout Josh StraubEmotional Safety: The Foundation of Lasting RelationshipsBalancing Identity: Who You Are vs. What You DoLiving in Abundance, Not ScarcitySlowing Down to Speed Up: The Importance of Rest and RhythmsHow Emotional Safety Can Transform Your Family and LegacyLearn More with Famous at HomeBook a Strategy Call Why Emotional Safety is the Key to Success In today’s fast-paced world, where we’re all striving to build financial security, career success, and lasting legacies, it’s easy to forget the importance of the relationships that matter most. We often spend so much time focusing on what we can achieve that our families end up getting our leftovers. But what if I told you that the secret to true success—both at home and in business—comes from creating emotional safety in your family? During my conversation with Josh Straub, co-author of Famous at Home, we dove deep into this idea of emotional safety as the foundation for everything else. Whether you're raising kids, building a business, or nurturing a marriage, emotional safety is the core element that allows you and your loved ones to thrive. I’m going to share key takeaways from my conversation with Josh about how you can build emotional safety, cultivate stronger relationships, and ultimately create a lasting legacy—one that goes beyond financial success. About Josh Straub Josh is most renowned for his role as a husband and dad. He is also a recovering human, an ongoing journey that includes therapy, coaching, a tight-knit faith community, and staying fit. Josh is a speaker, author, marriage and leadership coach, and a podcast and TV cohost. He and his wife, Christi, lead Famous at Home, a company equipping leaders and corporations in emotional intelligence and healthy family systems. Josh is also a Fellow of the Townsend Institute for Leadership and Counseling. Josh most enjoys coaching leaders to be famous at home so they can thrive on their stage. He also speaks regularly for Joint Special Operations Command and serves military families across the country. Josh is author/ coauthor of six books including Safe House: How Emotional Safety is the Key to Raising Kids Who Live, Love, and Lead Well. He and his wife, Christi, host the Famous at Home podcast and co-wrote a recent children’s book, to help parents foster emotional awareness in kids, called What Am I Feeling? Emotional Safety: The Foundation of Lasting Relationships Josh and his wife Christy started their journey by asking a simple but profound question: What matters most when we look back on our lives? After facing their own challenges early in parenting—including colic, acid reflux, and the stress of family illnesses—they realized that despite all the advice from parenting experts, the one thing that truly mattered was creating emotional safety in the home. Emotional safety isn’t just about keeping the peace; it’s about making sure that your family feels heard, seen, and loved. It’s the hub of the wheel, the center from which everything else—discipline, communication, and even financial success—flows. Without emotional safety, all the strategies in the world won’t help you build a thriving family or a successful business. In my own experience, I’ve found that when we neglect emotional safety, we end up creating environments where our children and spouses feel unseen, which leads to disconnection and frustration. But when we prioritize emotional safety, we create a space where everyone can flourish—because they feel valued, understood, and loved. Balancing Identity: Who You Are vs. What You Do One of the most striking insights from Josh was his take on identity. In our society, we often confuse who we are with what we do. From the time we’re children, we’re asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” This question sets us on a path where our worth becomes tied to our job titles, our achievements, and our external success. But as Josh reminded us, our identity isn’t in what we do—it’s in who we are. And for those of us building businesses and legacies, this is a crucial distinction. If we tie our identity to

Oct 14, 2024

Top Generational Wealth Building Strategies – Lessons from Legendary Families

Many people aspire to build wealth that outlasts their lifetime, but the path to creating true generational wealth is often misunderstood. It's not just about leaving behind a pile of money for your children to inherit. It's about setting up a system that enables your family to continue growing that wealth, generation after generation, while passing down the knowledge and tools to manage it wisely. And I'm here to tell you, this is entirely possible for you, starting right now. I'm Rachel Marshall, and today, we're talking about one of the most powerful concepts in financial success: generational wealth. What does it really mean, and more importantly, how can you create it? What are the top generational wealth building strategies? https://www.youtube.com/live/fgdo8-lUGvQ In this blog, I'll share insights from my years of financial coaching and what we've learned from studying legendary families like the Rockefellers and Rothschilds—families who didn't just achieve wealth but sustained it across generations. If you're ready to shift your mindset and start thinking long-term, you're in the right place. What Generational Wealth Building Is—and What It Isn'tThe Traditional Paradigm Is Failing UsLessons from Legendary Families: The Rockefeller ApproachBreaking the Cycle of "Shirtsleeves to Shirtsleeves"The Importance of Family Unity in Generational Wealth BuildingHow to Start Generational Wealth BuildingConclusion: Building a Legacy That Lasts What Generational Wealth Building Is—and What It Isn't Let's start by clearing up some misconceptions. When most people think of generational wealth building, they imagine building up a massive retirement fund or an extensive investment portfolio they can pass on to their kids. Maybe you've heard it described as "having so much money you can't spend it all, so there's some left over for the next generation." But here's the truth: Generational wealth is not just about accumulation. It's about creation, stewardship, and growth. Yes, having assets like real estate or a successful business is part of it. But generational wealth building goes far beyond the numbers in your bank account. It's about creating a legacy, not just of financial capital but of values, financial literacy, and an entrepreneurial spirit that gets passed down from one generation to the next. Think of it as a relay race. You're not just handing over a baton of wealth; you're giving them the roadmap and mindset to keep building and growing it long after you're gone. The Traditional Paradigm Is Failing Us Most people are taught to work hard, save for retirement, and hope they have enough to live comfortably when they're no longer earning a paycheck. But this way of thinking is flawed when it comes to creating lasting wealth. The typical retirement model focuses on accumulation—how big of a pile of cash can you build before you retire? Then, you live off that pile, hoping it lasts. The problem with this model is that it often leads to "just enough" thinking. You're planning for your needs, and maybe, just maybe, there will be something left over for the next generation. But what if I told you that's not enough? What if the goal wasn't just to accumulate but to build something that multiplies and grows across generations? To do that, you need a shift in mindset. You need to start thinking like the Rockefellers. Lessons from Legendary Families: The Rockefeller Approach Let's look at the Rockefellers for a moment. They didn't just hand over a pile of cash to the next generation and hope for the best. They built systems—through trusts, real estate, businesses, family banking, and financial education—that allowed each generation to continue growing the family's wealth. They saw themselves not just as beneficiaries of wealth but as stewards of wealth, with the responsibility to grow and protect it for future generations. One key difference? They invested in enduring assets—things like real estate and businesses that continue to generate income over time. Real estate, in particular, is a powerful tool for wealth building because it tends to appreciate over the long term and can provide a steady stream of passive income. And it wasn't just about the money. The Rockefellers passed down values, financial principles, and knowledge. They knew that wealth without wisdom is easily lost, which brings us to one of the biggest challenges families face: the "shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves" phenomenon. Breaking the Cycle of "Shirtsleeves to Shirtsleeves" There's a saying that goes: "Shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves in three generations." It means that wealth built in the first generation is often lost by the third. The first generation works hard and creates wealth, the second generation grows up in comfort and perhaps unde

Oct 7, 202428 min

Family Banking Formula® & Whole Life Insurance

Securing generational wealth has never been more critical in today's rapidly evolving financial landscape. It’s not just about safeguarding our financial future; it's about leaving behind a legacy that can provide security and opportunity for generations to come. In this episode, we dive into the Family Banking Formula® concept on The Money Advantage podcast. The insights are empowering and transformative, and I’m excited to share them with you. https://www.youtube.com/live/FZTDxocCGwY We will guide you through the key strategies discussed in the podcast, from the concept of the Family Banking Formula® to the strategic use of whole life insurance. My goal is to equip you with the knowledge and motivation to take control of your financial future, ensuring that you not only secure wealth for yourself but also create a lasting legacy for your family. The Power of the Family Banking Formula®: Building a Financial LegacyGenerational Wealth Through Whole Life Insurance: A Strategic AssetPersonal Banking Within the Family: Creating a Private Financial EcosystemThe Mechanics of the Family Banking Formula®: How It WorksLeveraging Life Insurance for High-Net-Worth Wealth BuildingStability and Risk Management: The Strength of Insurance CompaniesTake Control of Your Financial Future with the Family Banking Formula® The Power of the Family Banking Formula®: Building a Financial Legacy The core idea behind the Family Banking Formula® is to take control of the banking function in your life instead of relying on traditional banks. We use specially designed whole life insurance policies to manage our family bank. At the heart of how we have personally implemented this concept is the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC), which is a strategy that allows individuals to become their own bankers. One of the key benefits of family banking is the ability to pool resources within the family. Imagine a system where you and your family members can borrow money from the family bank to fund various endeavors, whether it’s starting a business, paying for education, or purchasing a home. By doing this, you keep the wealth within the family, allowing it to grow through uninterrupted compound interest. This approach not only benefits you and your immediate family but also sets up future generations for financial success. Successful family banking isn't just about having the right financial structures in place—it's about adopting the right mindset, teaching future generations financial literacy, and providing accountability and mentorship, which are crucial for making the most of family banking. Family banking offers unparalleled access to liquidity, better returns, and reduced taxes. But more importantly, it fosters a mindset that views the family as a cohesive financial unit and promotes long-term financial independence. Imagine your family as a corporation, where each member plays a crucial role in building and maintaining financial health. By pooling resources and making strategic decisions together, your family can achieve financial goals that might seem out of reach if tackled individually. This approach strengthens family ties and lays the groundwork for a legacy of wealth, value creation, and financial literacy that can be passed down through generations. This fits well with the definition of legacy in my book Seven Generations Legacy: Design a Multigenerational Legacy of More Than Money. The definition is: “The character, values, and financial means to live life on your terms that are modeled, taught, stewarded, and given from one generation to the next.” To take it one step further, a perpetual legacy is family wealth and flourishing that grows with each successive generation. Generational Wealth Through Whole Life Insurance: A Strategic Asset One of the podcast's most impactful revelations is the strategic use of whole life insurance to build and preserve generational wealth. Unlike term life insurance, which provides coverage for a specific period, whole life insurance is a permanent policy that not only offers a death benefit but also accumulates cash value over time. This cash value can be accessed during one's lifetime, making it a versatile financial tool. Whole life insurance is more than just a policy; it's an investment in your family's future. It functions much like real estate in that it grows in value over time and can be passed down to future generations. Whole life insurance offers several unique benefits that make it ideal for generational wealth building. First, it provides a guaranteed death benefit that can be passed on to your heirs. But beyond that, it accumulates cash value over time, which can be accessed during your lifetime through policy loans. Additionally, whole life insurance policies often offer creditor protection, safeguarding your assets from potential claims. By integrating whole life insurance into your financial plan, you're creating a reservoir of capital t

Sep 30, 202452 min

Short-Term Rentals, with Marilynn Taylor

Is the age of short-term rentals over? If you ask Marilynn Taylor, who coaches investors on successful short-term rental investments, the answer is a resounding no. All it takes is a true understanding of the market and the customer who is seeking a short-term rental. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oM80zjphe60 In this insightful conversation with Marilynn, we learn how her investing paths all led back to short-term rentals over and over, thanks to her unique ability for interior design and hospitality. She was in the game long before the rise of Airbnb, and she has stayed successful in the marketplace because she knows what the upstarts in the market forgot---quality matters. Marilynn walks us through the ups and downs of short-term rentals, what it takes to be successful, and how to get involved in the space in a way that works for your life's vision. For an inside look at the world of short-term rentals, tune in now! Airbnb and the Rise of Short-Term RentalsShort-Term Co-HostingHeed RegulationsInfinite Banking and Short-Term RentalsAbout Marilynn TaylorConnect with Marilynn TaylorBook A Strategy Call [05:45] “For some people, the world of finances, real estate investing, and all of that is because they just want to get rich. But if we really back that down for a minute and ask ourselves why we want that, I think that the answer, for the majority of people, is they want security. They want to live a nice life. They want to not feel stressed about going out and buying groceries or giving their kids a ballet lesson.” Marilynn was heavily motivated by her external circumstances, and she knew that she wanted to break the cycle of financial troubles and challenge her family’s mindset that being rich meant you were greedy. While Marilynn began her career as a professional dancer and later a makeup artist, her path eventually led her into real estate investing, which eventually evolved into interior design. One of her early properties was in Cape Cod, and the thing to do was turn it into a short-term rental. After doing some research, she furnished and decorated that property, as well as a second one, and discovered she had a knack for interior design. Her path also led her to being featured on HGTV, and at one point Marilynn believed she would be a house flipper. The lifestyle, however, didn’t suit her, and so she returned to the short-term rental space. Now, many years later, Marilynn coaches other investors on the short-term rental game. Airbnb and the Rise of Short-Term Rentals Marilynn got into short-term rentals before Airbnb was on the scene, and that company certainly transformed the market in many ways. Marilynn even resisted Airbnb for a long time because it took the personal touch out of short-term rentals. All communication happens online or in-app, and it creates barriers between you and your host. [12:53] “Now, what I think a lot of people see when they see social media content about short-term rentals—especially since Covid—it was a gold rush during that time. And so many people rushed into short-term rental as a get-rich-quick scheme. It was just a cash cow, and it didn’t matter where they bought, where they invested, how they invested, what they even put out into the market—they were just going to bring money in. And for a year and a half or two, that was true. But the harsh reality of the actual industry has slapped a whole lot of investors in the face at this point.” The reality? You have to put quality out there, and you have to provide value. Now that the market is saturated, it’s not enough to have just any old room with a bed. People care about their location, the amenities, and more. The market is saturated with places that are filled with cheap accommodations and little to no care, and people are waking up to that. That’s not what they want anymore. [15:30] “What I recommend to people when you’re searching for what is the right type of real estate investment for [you], is really truly digging into what does the back end look like? How much effort is really involved?” You have to decide what you want your life to look like and then find something that fits into that vision. If you want to have a work-free investment, short-term rentals are not the way. Short-term rentals are about hospitality, and that takes work, even if you have a team. For Marilynn, her bread and butter is creating amazing experiences for people on short-term stays. If that’s not something that interests you, it’s probably not the business for you. Short-Term Co-Hosting A more recent development in short-term rentals is what’s called a co-host. Co-hosts are people who manage and run your short-term rental on your behalf, sort of like a management company, except it’s typically more personal. As a property owner, having a co-host is a great way to relinquish some of the responsibility, while also ensuring that there is still a personal touch. Boutique co-hosts are Marilynn’s preferred way to partner with people bec

Sep 23, 20241h 19m

Beaver Bankers: Build Financial Dams for Future Generations

What happens when you balance rigorous research with actionable steps in financial education? Drawing inspiration from Nelson Nash’s teachings and Becca Wilhite's book "Beaver Bankers," we explore how building your own financial dam can help you navigate the overwhelming flood of social media content. We’ll highlight the importance of wisdom over information and how to create a solid understanding of the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC). https://www.youtube.com/live/TXRrkhh-yXY Discover Becca Wilhite's introduction to whole life insurance in 2020, which challenged her previous beliefs shaped by Dave Ramsey and led her to embrace the principles of the Nelson Nash Institute. This pivotal moment not only transformed her financial strategy but also inspired her to write a children's book, Beaver Bankers, that cleverly uses the analogy of beavers building dams to teach financial stability and security. We also tackle the hotly debated topic of Dave Ramsey’s financial advice versus the Infinite Banking Concept. While Ramsey’s methods have undoubtedly helped many escape debt, our discussion highlights the limitations of his narrow focus on mutual funds. Becca’s dedication to mastering and teaching IBC emphasizes the importance of mentorship in making complex financial concepts accessible. We wrap up with a fascinating look at how life insurance can be strategically used for generational wealth. Tune in for a thought-provoking episode that promises to reshape your perspective on financial strategies. Dave Ramsey and IBCBeaver Bankers Book Reveals the Secrets of IBCBringing Kids on Board with BankingBook A Strategy Call Dave Ramsey and IBC Depending on who you ask in the IBC community, Dave Ramsey is a hot topic. After all, he’s staunchly against whole life insurance and IBC strategies. However, our take is a little less extreme. He can’t be a total scam, or else he wouldn’t still be doing what he’s doing. What Dave is good at is helping people get out of debt and build the discipline necessary to be good candidates for IBC. He’s just not a great wealth builder. But when you realize that, you realize he’s not a bad guy. Becca’s views were shaped early on by Dave Ramsey until she realized that there was a lot of merit to the Infinite Banking space. To get there, it required an open mind. [14:21] “If you would be curious enough to maybe spend a few hours reading a book, I think you might discover—if we could all have a little bit of humility—hey, I might not be right. And these things that I’ve thought and been taught my whole life, there may be a better way.” Don’t be afraid to learn new things, adopt a beginner’s mindset, and stretch the boundaries of what you know. Knowledge cannot harm you, it can only make you a deeper and more critical thinker. This is how Becca grew in her understanding, and what led her to becoming an IBC Practitioner in her own right. Beaver Bankers Book Reveals the Secrets of IBC Some people are good verbal communicators, others are good written communicators. Becca happens to be great at communicating concepts and ideas with the written word, as evidenced by her children’s book. This endeavor was not something Becca predicted for herself, and yet one day she found herself wondering if there were ways that nature could tell the story and principles of IBC. It was this line of thought, and her faith, that led her to researching beavers. It was just a little inkling in the back of her mind that she knew was divinely planted, so she followed through. At the beginning of her research, all she really knew was that beavers built dams. Interestingly, the reason that they build the dams is to create a more favorable environment for themselves. Beavers aren’t that great on land, and they can’t really thrive in rushing water, so they build dams. The dam turns fast-flowing water into a pond that’s ideal to live in. It provides protection, security, food, shelter, and supplies. IBC, on the other hand, is about taking money that was previously flowing away from us and collecting it in a “pond” so that it’s right where we need and want it to be. This idea rolled around in Becca’s head for a few months before she officially decided to make it into a story one day. After sending it to Bruce, who endorsed it with much encouragement, she continued to take steps toward publishing: finding an illustrator, formatting, and eventually going through Amazon to publish what is now “Beaver Bankers.” Bringing Kids on Board with Banking One of the reasons Becca’s book is so powerful for children and adults alike is because it reframes the idea of banking. Those who are unfamiliar with Infinite Banking as a concept typically approach the idea with some apprehension. After all, it doesn’t seem possible to bank without a bank. Yet by showing that even beavers showcase these banking principles, it makes banking a lot easier to apply outside of that specific financial context. Suddenly, people begin un

Sep 16, 202443 min

Key 16 Habits of Rich People

What sets apart the people who are wealthy and successful from those who struggle with money their whole lives? What are the Key Habits of Rich People? It’s not luck. Some people were familiar with wealthy habits, and some learned them. Today, we’re talking about the fundamental habits and disciplines of an ordered life. https://www.youtube.com/live/B8sUIodCLus What if the key to your financial and relational success lay not in luck but in your daily habits? Join us as we challenge the notion that success is merely a result of favorable circumstances. We uncover the transformative power of self-discipline, self-awareness, and deliberate choices. Through insights from "Atomic Habits," we delve into how significant, transformative habits can set the foundation for broader success and why surrounding yourself with success-oriented individuals can be the game-changer you need. In a touching conversation with my 13-year-old daughter, we debunk the myth that self-improvement means inadequacy. Bruce shares his wisdom on the ongoing nature of growth and learning, stressing the importance of new experiences. Drawing from Rabbi Daniel Lapin's holistic approach, we discuss how progress in finances, faith, fitness, friendships, and family are intricately linked, contributing to a balanced and successful life. This holistic model underscores that improvement in one area can create positive ripples across all facets of your life. Discover why an abundance mindset is crucial for growth and wealth in our discussion on intentional living. We'll share how gratitude and viewing tasks as privileges can shift your career and personal growth trajectories. Learn from the financial habits of rich people, such as cash flow awareness and strategic investments, and see why building a self-sustaining business through teamwork is essential for long-term success. With practical steps for setting a long-term vision and focusing on significant goals, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you achieve true financial independence and personal fulfillment. So if you want to discover the thinking, action, and strategies that separate the top 1%, tune in now! Take Responsibility and Work on YourselfHabits of Rich PeopleAbundance MindsetGet Your Priorities StraightWealth Takes TimeCash Flow AwarenessPay Yourself FirstFocus on What You Can ControlBook A Strategy Call Take Responsibility and Work on Yourself For better or for worse, you are responsible for the outcomes of your life. Taking responsibility of that is the first step toward a “wealth” mindset. So what does it mean to take responsibility? That can look like making different choices, forming new habits, doing research and due diligence, and so much more. I think, often, people conceptualize taking responsibility in a negative context. Many people view it as owning up to your actions when taking responsibility can also be a positive thing. It’s about taking ownership of everything you do so that you’re living life consciously and intentionally. When you’re responsible with your actions, you’re informed and empowered, which yields excellent results. If you want to go the way of the wealthy, everything starts with responsibility. Assume responsibility for how you think and what you do, and you’ll start seeing positive results. [06:00] “Taking responsibility means recognizing that you can’t blame others, you can’t have excuses. It’s taking ownership of your life.” Habits of Rich People So what is it that sets the wealthy apart from your average person? It's the habits that they've collected over time that help them live life more abundantly. These habits of rich people are all small pieces that contribute to a larger picture of hard work, innovation, a desire to create value, and strong principles. [08:46] “It’s not that you need to change to become valuable; it’s that when you recognize your worth and your value, you can’t help but know that there’s more capability if you can shed the layers of the guilt, and the fear and the shame and all this stuff that keeps you in a negative way of thinking.” Abundance Mindset What’s one thing all the wealthiest people have in common? They have adopted an abundance mindset. When viewing the world through a lens of abundance there is always enough to go around—dollars, skills, accomplishments, opportunities, accolades, and more. People who think abundantly are not deterred by the success of others, they celebrate it because they know it isn’t standing in the way of their own success. When you think abundantly, you’re training your brain to see the possibilities in the world so that you can capitalize on them. If you don’t like your reality, you can tell your mind a new story. If it sounds simple, it is. Yet simple does not always mean easy, as it's difficult to change your worldview. Just remember that if negativity seems to be holding you back, you have the power to change it with the way that you th

Sep 9, 202456 min

Worst Infinite Banking Mistakes to Avoid – Learn Before You Leap

Infinite Banking has the potential to transform your family's financial life. However, as this powerful financial concept has risen in popularity, so have the messages that deviate from the original design and intent. Understanding infinite banking as Nelson Nash intended becomes all the more important, as it allows you to recognize the worst infinite banking mistakes. https://www.youtube.com/live/T_2v5vubeLY Many people have problems with infinite banking concepts because they follow misleading advice or misunderstand the foundational principles. This can undermine their financial strategy before it even begins. In order for you to reap the greatest benefits of Infinite Banking, you have to identify these attractive half-truths about Infinite Banking, so you can steer clear of problems and instead build your financial house on sound fundamentals. Discover how to sidestep common pitfalls, from misinterpreting policy illustrations to mismanaging premium payments. This episode provides a detailed examination of Nelson Nash's foundational principles, illuminating how deviating from his original design can undermine your financial strategy. Navigate the complexities of selecting the right life insurance policies and managing cash flows with confidence. We debunk myths about early cash value and illustrate the importance of balancing safety, liquidity, and growth for optimal wealth management. Learn practical strategies for planning ahead, so you never miss a premium payment and maintain the integrity of your policy. This episode is all about proactive action and long-term thinking, giving you the tools to confidently implement the infinite banking concept and maximize your wealth. Join us and transform your financial approach today! What is Infinite Banking?Worst Infinite Banking Mistakes to Avoid.1. Comparing Illustrations2. Not Planning Ahead to Pay Premium3. Trying to Guarantee the Future Before Starting4. Not Using Whole Life Insurance5. Focusing Only on Cash Value6. Using It to Pay Off Debt7. Using All Available Cash Value8. Viewing It as a One-time Event9. Not Getting StartedWhy Do People Say There's a Problem with the Infinite Banking Concept?The Financial Industry Has Skin in the GameBad Experiences Get Blamed on the Wrong ThingIt Doesn't Fit Academic TheoryIt's Complex, and People Prefer Simple StoriesBook A Strategy Call and Avoid These Worst Infinite Banking Mistakes What is Infinite Banking? The Infinite Banking Concept, coined by Nelson Nash, is the idea of taking control of the banking function in your life via whole life insurance with a mutual insurance company. The banking function primarily refers to financing, because we all have a need for capital, and how you obtain that capital can make a major difference in your bottom line. By accumulating your capital outside of the banks, you can finance your own purchases and investments. Whole life insurance is simply the ideal vehicle or “warehouse” for storing said capital. So why is this better than working with a bank? The answer is control. When you work with banks, you have very little control and often have to jump through hoops to get access to cash. In fact, there are many reasons a bank might deny you a loan, regardless of your ability to repay the loan. Bank terms are also rigid and inflexible. So what if you could call the shots, right down to your amortization schedule? That’s what Infinite Banking allows you to do. It puts you back in the driver's seat. Worst Infinite Banking Mistakes to Avoid. IBC itself isn't flawed; the problem with the infinite banking concept occurs when people stray from Nelson Nash's original design or get caught up in the myths and lies surrounding this strategy. One of the major issues is that there’s a lot of Infinite Banking misinformation out there. In part, this comes from detractors, and yet it can also come from well-meaning people who don’t have a fundamental understanding of IBC the way Nelson taught it. That’s why it’s really important to vet your information sources. Ask yourself: What’s their skin in the game, what do they get from discrediting IBC? How do they know about IBC and what’s their relationship to it? How long has this person been practicing IBC, and who are their mentors? Are they an IBC Practitioner, certified through the Nelson Nash Institute? In an effort to combat some of the misinformation out there, we’ve compiled a list of the 9 worst Infinite Banking mistakes we see people make, so that you can learn from them. 1. Comparing Illustrations One of the worst Infinite Banking mistakes we see people make is that they’re comparing illustrations to make their decisions. This is because they’re too invested in a rate of return, and so they don’t see the whole picture. A life insurance illustration is a snapshot in time, based on the current projected dividend. This means that as soon as the dividend is paid or a new dividend is declared, which happen

Sep 2, 202450 min

Leaving an Inheritance to My Great-Grandchildren

Do you want to give your kids the best possible chance at life, but you’re afraid of spoiling them, or worse? Are you concerned that leaving an inheritance will only end in disaster? Learn why "leaving an inheritance to my great-grandchildren" is a good thing and how to do it. Many parents are undecided about whether they want to leave an inheritance to their children. They fear raising ungrateful “trust fund babies” or leaving their kids with money they cannot possibly be good stewards of. Some parents didn’t receive an inheritance at all, so they don’t think their own children could possibly need it. https://www.youtube.com/live/x-tY0oVUqcU But what if you could leave an inheritance not only to your children but your grandchildren, and even your great-grandchildren? It’s not about how much money you have, it’s about how you prepare your children to take good care of that money and become value creators in their own right. Today, we’re talking about how the Marshall family approaches money and inheritance, and how you can begin preparing your kids to be great stewards of your legacy now and later. Learn how and why I am leaving an inheritance to my great-grandchildren, and you can too. Tune in now! The Inheritance SpectrumThe Marshall Family ValuesHave Your Kids Create ValueLeaving an Inheritance to My Great-GrandchildrenFinancial Wisdom for KidsBook A Strategy Call The Inheritance Spectrum Leaving an inheritance to your children or grandchildren can be a tricky subject to navigate. There are many pros and cons to both leaving or not leaving an inheritance that has a lot to do with HOW you go about it. In our case, we think inheritance is a spectrum of sorts. On one end, you’ve got those who are just dumping money on the next generation without much preparation or care. On the other side of the spectrum, you have people who are intentionally withholding an inheritance for various reasons. Then, you have everything in between. The side that is against leaving an inheritance generally comes from two schools of thought. Some people believe that they weren’t left anything, and so their children don’t need it either. They want to be selfish with their money, and they want their kids to figure it out on their own. The other camp is the parents who don’t wish to ruin their kids by spoiling them or leaving them with a cushy life without developing the work ethic or business savvy to keep it. Both sides of this spectrum are pretty extreme and can be damaging. There’s a middle ground that we advocate for that can actually ensure that your legacy lasts for generations, and that’s by building something to leave your children while also raising them to be good stewards of it. This could include involving your kids in the family business, teaching them good money principles, and making sure that they know how to continue growing their assets. By doing this, you create a generation that can do the same with their children so that many generations down the line your family is still prospering. [09:50] “It’s not the money that causes the problems. The challenge is money brings up all of this emotion… we attach it to our identity, our sense of self-worth.” The Marshall Family Values One of my family’s values is freedom. Most people conjure up the same mental image of freedom, but there are actually two major meanings of the word freedom when we go back to Hebrews in scripture. There’s a good form of freedom and a bad form of freedom. The way that most people conceptualize freedom is to be free FROM something—for example, freedom from obligations. This is why many people think of retirement as one of the ultimate freedoms because they won’t be tied down or expected to do anything. The other kind of freedom is the freedom to choose—not to be free of obligations, but to pick the obligations that matter to you and develop accordingly. This choice is about service, and it allows you to build a fulfilling life that has incredible ripple effects. When you instill this kind of mindset within the family, you see how it creates this wellspring of good not just inside of your family, but outside of it. And this kind of freedom naturally attracts money, because money is a result of providing value in the marketplace. We’ve seen the positive evidence of this approach in our own family, and we know the seeds are there for our children to be good stewards of the family legacy. Have Your Kids Create Value In our family, we decided not to give an allowance to our children and instead encouraged them to create value. This eventually led to our daughter creating her own business, after attending a five-day course that helped her think about the many ways in which she could provide value. The idea had to be both something she was interested in AND something that people wanted and would be profitable. Eventually, our daughter decided she wanted to bake and sell cookies, so we workshopped ways in which this could be a recurring, profit

Aug 26, 202443 min

Whole Life Insurance Tax Benefits – How They Work and Why They Matter

Understanding the tax advantages of whole life insurance can make a huge difference in your financial strategy when it comes to building wealth efficiently. Many people wonder, "Is whole life insurance tax-free?" While the answer depends on how you structure and use your policy, the tax benefits are substantial and without a doubt worth exploring. Today, we’ll unlock the secrets of mastering the tax benefits of whole life insurance with our latest Money Advantage podcast episode. We promise you’ll gain an in-depth understanding of tax laws related to life insurance strategies, like the pivotal 1988 government decision to limit cash value life insurance investments due to their tax perks. By diving into the historical context of the Tax Reform Act of 1986 and the Revenue Act of 1987, we uncover the intricate relationship between these laws and the economic climate of the time, helping you make smarter financial decisions today. https://www.youtube.com/live/0XcaTFWcOhM Travel back in time with us to explore how Nixon’s 1974 move away from the gold standard set the stage for inflation and the creation of IRAs and 401(k)s. These financial products shifted funds from whole life insurance, leading to the popularity of universal life policies. Our discussion reveals how high interest rates and regulatory responses like the 1988 Tamra Act reshaped the life insurance landscape, ensuring it remained a protection tool rather than a tax haven. The 1979 FTC report’s critique of whole life insurance also played a significant role, challenging traditional perceptions and influencing market dynamics. We round off the episode by dissecting the Modified Endowment Contract (MEC) and the Tamra Act’s regulatory impacts on life insurance policies. Discover the nuances of the one-year and seven-year rules, the scenarios leading to a policy becoming a MEC, and the resulting tax implications. We delve into circumstances where intentionally MEC'ing a policy could be beneficial, such as for estate planning or achieving better returns than traditional banking options. This rich historical insight equips you with the knowledge to navigate today’s complex financial landscape with confidence. Tax Loopholes vs. Tax IncentivesHow Tax Incentives WorkWhole Life Insurance and TaxesThree Main Tax BenefitsThe History of Whole Life Insurance and TaxationEarly Dominance as a Savings VehicleThe Impact of Economic ChangesThe Rise of Universal LifeThe Tax Reform Act and TAMRAWhat Does it Mean to Be a MEC?Understanding MEC StatusHow to Avoid MEC StatusApplying Whole Life Insurance Tax Benefits TodayFrequently Asked QuestionsIs whole life insurance tax-free?Do I pay taxes on whole life insurance cash value growth?What happens if I borrow from my whole life insurance policy?Can the IRS change whole life insurance tax benefits?Book A Strategy Call Tax Loopholes vs. Tax Incentives To kick off this conversation, let’s get something clear: tax loopholes are not actually loopholes. The word “loophole” has a negative connotation, and if often used to suggest that people who use tax incentives to reduce their taxes are doing something sneaky or unethical. The reality is that the IRS writes tax law to be as specific and intentional as possible, and those “loopholes” are actually intentional incentives from the government. How Tax Incentives Work Tax incentives work to provide tax credits or breaks for investors who can do things that the government does not want to spend their own money on. For example, there are many tax incentives in real estate because housing is a constant and prevalent need. If housing cannot be provided by landlords, the government may have to provide more housing, and so the government creates tax incentives to have investors take the lead. Tax breaks don’t exist by accident. They are purposeful and are designed to get investors to take specific actions. Whole Life Insurance and Taxes Whole life insurance is a popular “tax-advantaged” asset because you can technically access your cash in a tax-free way. You can do this through a policy loan, which must still be paid back, or by withdrawing only up to your base premium. Otherwise, you can still have a taxable event. That being said, whole life insurance has long been a popular strategy for tax purposes, and in fact used to be even more beneficial from a tax standpoint, until the IRS got involved. And while there are some limitations, now, whole life insurance is still extremely advantageous from a tax standpoint. Three Main Tax Benefits The tax advantages of whole life insurance include: Income Tax-free death benefit to beneficiaries Tax-deferred cash value growth Tax-free access to cash value via policy loans The History of Whole Life Insurance and Taxation Early Dominance as a Savings Vehicle Until the 1960s, whole life insurance was the premier savings vehicle for American families. It provided great flexibility and protection and was a powerful tax advantage. The cultu

Aug 19, 202439 min

Family Business Dynamics, with Savannah Suttle

Do you want to grow and scale a family business, but family business dynamics are getting in the way? https://www.youtube.com/live/vZkpINzoFts Unlock the secrets to harmonizing family business dynamics and business operations with Savannah Suttle from Schema Consulting to reveal the powerful impact of psychotherapy and marriage and family therapy techniques on family-run businesses. You'll learn how to navigate the complex interplay between evolving family roles and business practices, ensuring a cohesive approach to tackling both personal and professional challenges, especially during generational transitions. Discover the keys to balancing business needs with employee well-being as we tackle the intricacies of role reassessment and transparent communication. Savannah shares her wisdom on creating win-win scenarios where individual growth and business success go hand in hand. We discuss the critical importance of addressing difficult decisions head-on, fostering a culture of open dialogue that prevents fear and conflict avoidance, and underscoring the necessity of placing the right people in the right positions for maximum team morale and efficiency. Finally, we explore the essential strategies for scaling family businesses, emphasizing radical transparency and effective communication. Savannah guides us through the pitfalls of over-relying on long-standing employees without proper succession planning and highlights the importance of nurturing the next generation's authenticity and innovation. From strategic leadership transitions to fostering a shared vision, this episode equips you with the tools to ensure your family business remains vibrant and appealing for future generations, creating a lasting legacy of wealth and collaboration. So, if you want to discover how your family businesses can navigate complex dynamics and turn challenges into opportunities to grow your reach, impact, and team ... tune in now! How Behavior Therapy Leads to Family Business DynamicsNavigating Family Business GrowthMaking Tough DecisionsPassing Businesses from Generation to GenerationBook A Strategy Call How Behavior Therapy Leads to Family Business Dynamics While now Savannah works with family businesses, she got her start in behavior therapy, specifically marriage and family therapy. What’s unique about this field is that it’s a structural form of psychotherapy—if you can change the structure of the family, you can change the dynamic of the family. So changing one piece of the system will change the whole system. This structure is very close to, and even overlapping, with business structures. And if you have a family business, the dynamics are even more entwined. What Savannah found is that some of her clients who had family businesses had cemented some of their family dysfunction into their business operations. The problem is that at one point the dysfunction was actually functional, and served a positive purpose at one point. But then, over time, the business/family outgrew those roles or procedures, and yet they left them baked into the process. Those dysfunctions are then difficult to remove because the family has not come to terms with who they have become and what they need. [04:53] “Who you were when you started the business is probably not who you are now. And what you needed then is probably not what you need now.” Navigating Family Business Growth One of the ways in which family businesses may fail to adapt is how they scale. It’s one thing to manage a team of 10 people—especially when you know and love them—and another thing to manage a team of 150 people. The challenges of a team of 150 are different even from a team of thousands. [09:32] “The problem is when you start scaling and you’ve got a lot of people now, it’s usually a matter of headcount. Then all of a sudden you only have 24 hours in a day and you can’t talk to everybody and build relationships with everybody.” When you start a small, family business, you typically know exactly who you’re working with and how you’ll be working with them. However, as you continue to grow, you cannot expect these same systems to work with the same results. One solution is systematizing your structures so that you’ve got efficient communication in any business structure you may have, rather than having endless catch-up meetings and making people chase information. But if that worked for you with a small team, it may be baked into your business even as it grows, causing some real miscommunication and struggle. What you cannot do is just hope it will get figured out—it won’t. You’ve got to create the structure so that people can fit into it. Making Tough Decisions In addition to building your team as you grow, you also need to build the right team, in the right ways. Sometimes, this means that you need to approach certain problems in a way that keeps morale high and strengthens bonds. Other times, this means you need to transition away from people who are not work

Aug 12, 202451 min

Whole Life Insurance Loans Explained

Do you have a life insurance policy and want to access your cash reserves? Today, we're discussing the science of whole life insurance loans. We'll show you why a whole life insurance loan is the safest investment imaginable for the life insurance company and why a whole life insurance policy loan is not a debt to the policy owner. https://www.youtube.com/live/jpoMCZrpCXI This is an in-depth exploration of Infinite Banking and whole life insurance policy loans. Understand how leveraging your whole life insurance policy can offer superior benefits over traditional bank loans, while allowing your savings to grow uninterrupted. We'll break down the step-by-step process of requesting and repaying loans against your policy, debunking the myth that taking such loans equates to being in debt. Discover the power of participating in mutual insurance companies, where you can benefit from dividends as part owners. Learn how using your cash value as collateral for non-recourse loans presents a low-risk, high-reward strategy, and compare the straightforward underwriting process of insurance loans to the more cumbersome bank loans. We'll also discuss the safeguards mutual companies put in place to ensure financial stability and how they effectively manage loan requests. Finally, we delve into the principles of Nelson Nash's Infinite Banking Concept, emphasizing long-term thinking and strategic loan repayment to optimize your policy benefits. We'll clarify the nuances of borrowing against whole life insurance policies, explain the importance of maintaining your contract's integrity, and share best practices for utilizing these loans effectively. Whether you're new to Infinite Banking or looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you take control of your financial future. So, if you want to understand whole life insurance policy loans, how to take a loan against whole life insurance policy, why the life insurance company is willing to offer them, how to repay them, what happens to your policy with outstanding loans, and when you should reconsider, tune in now! What is a Whole Life Insurance Loan?Loan Safety in InsuranceReading a Policy IllustrationTaking a Whole Life Insurance LoanWhere Does the Interest Go?Book A Strategy Call What is a Whole Life Insurance Loan? A whole life insurance loan, also called a policy loan, is a loan FROM the insurance company with your cash value acting as collateral. The reason this type of loan is powerful is because it allows you to use the sum of your cash value without actually using it. Since you’re using the life insurance company’s money, your cash value is free to keep compounding with interest and dividends. This can make a major difference on the growth of your account. While you do have to pay the loan back, you have much more flexibility than with any other loan type. You can make your own payment schedule, and you do not have to apply or meet any requirements, and as soon as you free up your cash value again (releasing the collateral by paying the loan balance) you can take another loan. Loan Safety in Insurance Because of the flexibility of whole life insurance loans, they’re incredibly “safe” loans to have. Your loan is always fully collateralized, which means that if you cannot pay the loan, the insurance company simply won’t release that collateral. And while that will of course reduce the cash value that you can access, your account still grows with new premiums, interest, and dividends. And one day, if you do repay the loan, that collateral does get released. This means that if you experience hardship or need to pause your loan payments, you can do so without worrying about defaulting, running your credit score, or otherwise facing financial obstacles. If you happen to die with an unpaid policy loan, the death benefit is simply paid to your beneficiaries minus any loan balance and interest. This means that you can still use your policy without fear of disinheriting anyone. Bank loans, on the other hand, are much more rigid. You must begin paying them down immediately, you often have to jump through many hoops to even get approved for financing, and if you default you could face many consequences. Reading a Policy Illustration If you want to know how much cash value you have available to collateralize, look no further than your policy illustration. You can have an in-force illustration run at any point in your policy, and this gives you a snapshot in time of your policy as it is, plus projections for the future. It’s important to recognize that projections are just that—projections. They’re based on what you have now, as well as the current declared dividend. They don’t account for what the dividend may be next year or the years after, so don’t put too much stock in the exact dollar amounts in the future. When you read your illustration, your “surrender value” is going to be the cash value

Aug 5, 202455 min

Real Estate Investing in Today’s Economy, with Anna Kelley

Today, we're talking with Anna Kelley, impact real estate investor, multifamily operator, and real estate mentor and coach, about the state of real estate investing. https://www.youtube.com/live/7AneSvWF6tQ With today's federal debt and high inflation environment, Anna cautions that it's time to be in capital preservation mode, not focused on cash flow and appreciation. So if you want to see how to invest during times of uncertainty, and understand the signs of the times to determine when to use value add vs. buy and hold strategies in different economic cycles, tune in now! With a wealth of experience spanning multiple economic downturns, Anna offers invaluable advice on understanding macroeconomic trends and adapting investment strategies. We also tackle the realities of working from home, the normalization of disruptions, and how the professional landscape has evolved post-COVID-19. Join us as we dissect the intricate dynamics of today's real estate market. Anna Kelly shares her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a prominent real estate expert. We delve into the risks and rewards of various investment strategies, from syndications and non-traded REITs to distressed commercial properties, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making amidst rising interest rates and economic uncertainty. Through real-world examples, we explore the impact of social media on investment behaviors and the necessity of a cautious, well-researched approach. Understanding Real Estate Investment CyclesWhere Are We Now?Tips for Commercial and Residential Real EstateAbout Anna KelleyConnect with Anna KelleyBook A Strategy Call Understanding Real Estate Investment Cycles [14:22] “It doesn’t matter how smart you are, it doesn’t matter how good your job is [or] how much you know about investing, and how much you know in real estate. If you’re not really paying attention to the macro signs that things are shifting, you can make some really bad decisions about debt and go into it at the wrong time. And you can make some really bad decisions about the stock market and anything you invest in.” In 2009, Anna Kelley decided she would never be blindsided by the marketplace again. She took the initiative to learn about market cycles and how to pay attention to major shifts in the market. Now that she understands the market cycles, she finds that Warren Buffett’s advice is timeless and true: “Be greedy when everyone’s fearful, and be fearful when everyone’s greedy.” At a very high level, investment cycles begin at a “trough,” or a recession—basically when things have not been going well economically. This is the point at which interest rates drop in an effort to get people spending again. This recession period can generally last anywhere from 10-18 months, and then the following 2-3 years are often when the economy wakes back up again and people start to feel comfortable. It's not an overnight process, Kelly shares, but one that takes time. People have trouble trusting the economy at first, so it takes a while to build that trust back up. Then, you get to the expansion period. This is the peak of the investment cycle, and while it can seem like a great thing, it also signals that the next recession is on the way. It might take a few years, but you’ve got to be aware of what is going on around you to take advantage of the cycles. [21:11] “At the moment that there is absolute panic and everybody’s afraid, that is the maximum point of opportunity.” The reason this part of the cycle is rife with opportunity is that there’s less competition, and lots of people aren’t thinking about opportunity. If you can buy when things are at a low point and just hang on to them, you’ve got a leg up on the market. In Anna’s personal opinion, we haven’t seen the end of the recession yet, we’re still at the top of it, and it will likely take some years to recover from that. Despite that, she thinks inflation will rear its head again after the recovery. So the assets she is investing in now have got to be able to ride out that recession and also be strong during the recovery phase, regardless of inflation. Where Are We Now? We’re in a recession, but it’s a lot different from recessions of the past because it was ushered in by unprecedented amounts of money being fed into the economy. People received stimulus checks during COVID-19, and money was just being printed like no tomorrow. And now there’s this bifurcated economy. In May, Anna Kelley says that 66% of Americans were living paycheck to paycheck, even households with $250k incomes. But that also means that 34% of people are doing just fine. At this point, people stop spending money, so employers feel like they have to tighten their belts and make layoffs. Ironically, this causes inflation to stop in its tracks. This doesn’t mean prices go down, but they do stop going up, generally speaking. Tips for Commercial and Residential Real Estate [51:34] “The good thing about bu

Jul 29, 20241h 1m

Fractional Reserve Banking Creates Inflation: Infinite Banking is the Solution

Inflation causes everything to feel more expensive, so what do you do to protect your money from inflation? Today, we’ll explore the link between inflation and fractional reserve banking and how Infinite Banking is the sound money solution. https://www.youtube.com/live/ay4aDG2phBg A thought-provoking journey through inflation, fractional reserve banking, and the revolutionary concept of infinite banking. This episode promises to demystify how the traditional banking system and increased currency supply fuel inflation, challenging widespread misconceptions. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of inflation’s root causes by contrasting liberal views with Austrian economic theories, and learn how your everyday choices can influence market prices and how they relate to the average rate of return on your money. Next, we shift gears to tackle the often-overlooked topic of healthcare pricing elasticity. Hear real-life stories about how informed consumer decisions can lead to significant savings on prescriptions and medical procedures. Discover practical strategies for price negotiation without confrontation, and understand the ripple effects of increased money circulation on the economy. We’ll also discuss the impact of government policies like minimum wage hikes on business expenses and overall market pricing. Finally, explore a smarter financial strategy that sidesteps the pitfalls of fractional reserve banking. By leveraging whole life insurance policies, you can protect your assets from inflation and achieve greater financial security. Rachel and Bruce explain the benefits of mutual insurance companies, which maintain robust reserves, and how these practices can create a more stable personal economy. This episode is packed with insights into what fractional reserve banking does and actionable advice to help you take control of your financial destiny and build a prosperous future. So, if you want to learn how to ensure more economic stability and prosperity, tune in today! What You’ll LearnWhat Is Inflation in a Fractional Reserve Banking System?The Nature of Banking Under the Fractional Reserve SystemAvoiding the Risks of Fractional Reserve BankingResources:Book a Strategy Call: Explore Alternatives to Fractional Reserve BankingFAQs About Fractional Reserve BankingWhat is fractional reserve banking in simple terms?How does fractional reserve banking create inflation?Why does this system disadvantage savers?Is fractional reserve banking used everywhere?What’s the alternative to using traditional banks?Can I learn more about how banks really operate? What You’ll Learn What fractional reserve banking is and how it quietly affects your financial stability Why the fractional reserve system contributes to rising prices and weaker dollars How inflation is created—and why it punishes savers the most The surprising connection between bank loans and money creation What fractional reserve banking does to your purchasing power over time How government policies and circulating currency impact market prices Why Infinite Banking may offer a safer, more predictable alternative What Is Inflation in a Fractional Reserve Banking System? We all feel the effects of inflation, but what is it really? Inflation is when a dollar becomes less valuable. This is why bread used to cost a couple of nickels and now costs more than a couple of dollars. One of the major reasons for inflation is that our banks continue to pump more dollars into the banking system, decreasing the overall value of a single dollar. Our current banking system, fractional reserve banking, allows banks to keep only a fraction of their customers’ money in reserves. This means that banks can do more business than they actually have available. While this can stimulate the economy on some level, this also means that money is being created out of thin air. This is what the fractional reserve system does: it expands the money supply far beyond what actually exists in deposits, and when this happens en masse, it can create major instability. After all, the more money in circulation, the more prices begin to creep up to match. This system quietly penalizes savers. As the purchasing power of your money erodes, saving in traditional bank accounts means losing value year after year. To that end, understanding what fractional reserve banking does to your long-term financial position is key to protecting your wealth. ➡️ To learn more about how inflation connects to alternative strategies, check out our article on inflation and PrivatizedInflation and Privatized Banking. The Nature of Banking Under the Fractional Reserve System Let’s look more closely at how banking, as most people know it, works. If you deposit $1,000 in the bank, your institution is not required to have that exact amount in a vault somewhere just for you. In fact, they’re not even required to have that $1,000 at all. They’re only required to have a fraction of that on hand, and right now, it’s somewhere in the ba

Jul 22, 202446 min

Buy Term and Invest the Difference: Does It Really Work?

Are you trying to decide which type of life insurance to buy? You want to protect your family in case something happens, so how do you do it best? https://www.youtube.com/live/QDyfZjPaMgc Whole life insurance is often rejected as expensive and a poor “investment,” while mainstream opinion leans in favor of the “buy term and invest the difference” strategy, which involves opting for cheap insurance coverage and investing the dollars you save. We’ll guide you through the compelling story behind the “Buy Term and Invest the Difference” strategy, a concept born from Art Williams’ personal experiences in the late 1960s. By examining the benefits and pitfalls of this popular approach, we empower you to make informed decisions tailored to your unique financial goals and risk tolerance. Explore the vital distinctions between whole life and term life insurance, and learn why a one-size-fits-all solution may not serve your best interests. Through relatable analogies and real-life examples, we break down the often misunderstood aspects of life insurance, helping you see the bigger picture. We also address the psychological and financial barriers that many face when considering life insurance, sharing insights from LIMRA and Dr. Wade Pfau on how whole life insurance can provide a stable safety net during economic downturns. Finally, we delve into the concept of becoming your own banker, illustrating how this alternative perspective can offer unparalleled financial flexibility and security. By understanding the sequence of returns risk and leveraging whole life insurance loans during market downturns, you can protect your investment portfolio and ensure long-term financial stability. Join us for an episode packed with actionable insights and strategies to enhance your financial planning journey. What You'll LearnWhat Is Whole Life Insurance?What Is Term Insurance?Quick Comparison TableThe Buy Term Invest the Rest Strategy ExplainedThe Discipline ProblemMarket Risk and Investment Coverage Gaps and Health ChangesTerm Policies: 1% Pay Out RateWhole Life Insurance: 100% Payout RateTerm Premiums Skyrocket, Whole Life Stays Level What You'll Learn Why the buy-term, invest-the-rest approach only works with perfect execution (and why most people fail) The hidden costs that make term insurance more expensive than you think over time Why less than 1% of term policies ever pay out—and what that means for your family The discipline problem: why people buy term but never actually invest the difference How market volatility can destroy years of disciplined investing overnight Why getting priced out of term coverage as you age creates a dangerous protection gap When this strategy might actually make sense (hint: it's rare) A better approach that combines guaranteed growth, tax advantages, and permanent protection The Myth of “Buy Term and Invest the Difference” The idea of “buy term and invest the difference” is really common in the financial sphere because, on the surface, it seems to make a lot of practical sense. After all, you’re being told “buy cheap insurance to get the protection, then build your wealth in investments.” The problem is that this strategy doesn’t work with certain goals. There isn’t a singular, perfect insurance strategy to trump all else. There are myriad ways to get coverage, depending on what you want out of your dollars. Many people believe that Art Williams is the origin of this phrase; after his father passed, the whole life insurance death benefit didn’t seem as large as what a term insurance policy could have been, and for less money. He felt strongly that his father had been sold the “wrong” policy, and so his life’s mission became to get rid of whole life insurance. Curiously, he partnered with a mutual company, and the phrase “buy term, invest the difference” was born. Breaking Down Insurance, Investments, and More So, what are the elements of “buy term and invest the difference”? It may sound like there are two things at play here, but really, there are many factors to consider. While, of course, there’s term insurance and stocks (or other investments, technically), you have to ask what that strategy is being compared to. And what that’s being compared to is whole life insurance. What Is Whole Life Insurance? Whole life insurance is insurance that is with you for your whole life, and if done with IBC in mind, can also be used as a warehouse for your wealth. Whole life insurance is guaranteed to pay out no matter what age you die, and if you live to the “end” of the policy (called endowment), the death benefit gets paid directly to you. This is permanent insurance in the truest sense. What Is Term Insurance? Comparatively, term insurance is insurance that you only have for a portion of your life. There’s no cash value component, and once your term is up, you are no longer insured. This means that there is no guarantee of a death benefit ever being paid. The trade-off is that it’s much le

Jul 15, 202450 min

Leave a Legacy: The Two Essentials for Lasting Impact

Do you want to make a difference that lasts for generations? If you have children or grandchildren that you want to benefit, bless, and uplift, you can make plans now to accomplish that priority. Before you start planning, though, there are two essentials you'll need. These two components will help you get started and follow through so that you complete your plans. https://www.youtube.com/live/KxXNLrJJwz0 Rachel Marshall's near-death experience during childbirth was more than just a life-changing event; it was a wake-up call that transformed her perspective on the fragility of life and the urgency of planning for the future. This episode urges us to rethink our priorities and embrace a mindset that transcends personal gain to create a ripple effect of positive impact. Rachel's poignant story serves as a powerful reminder that our current mindset shapes our behaviors and results, urging us to seize our resources to make a meaningful, lasting difference for future generations. Join us as we explore how shifting from self-centered thinking to an impact-driven approach can revolutionize both our personal lives and professional endeavors. Rachel emphasizes the importance of building generational wealth and fostering family enterprises that serve not just ourselves but our descendants. We delve into the concept of creating multi-faceted wealth—encompassing financial, human, social, intellectual, and spiritual capital—using the ancient Iroquois' seven-generation perspective as inspiration. This episode is a compelling call to action to adopt long-term thinking and commit to creating value for others, laying the groundwork for a legacy that promotes human flourishing across generations. Tune in today to get equipped with the right mindset so you can ensure your efforts to provide for your children, protect your family, leave an inheritance, complete your estate planning, pass on family wealth, and train your children will leave a lasting impact. Personal Crisis to LegacyTwo Essentials for Lasting ImpactThe Decision to Create WealthThe 7-Generation LensBook A Strategy Call Personal Crisis to Legacy If you want to leave a legacy, make a difference, and leave the world a better place, you will have to think differently and become a different person to do it. Legacy wasn’t always on my mind; there was a time when I took my life and health for granted. It wasn’t until a personal crisis that I came face to face with reality: life is not guaranteed. After an already difficult birth, my situation took a turn when I began losing an overwhelming amount of blood, and I ended up needing a full blood transfusion. Our family was faced with the very real possibility that I would not make it. I'm grateful to be here today, but I'm also profoundly grateful for the complete shift that experience was for how Lucas and I approach life and legacy. Tomorrow is not guaranteed, do not wait to make positive change and prepare your legacy. [05:10] “The fact that our lives are not guaranteed makes us realize that we have power today while we have our mental faculties and our breath to be able to do so much that will impact the lives of our children and grandchildren beyond us.” Two Essentials for Lasting Impact If you’re ready to create lasting impact for your children, grandchildren, and many generations beyond that, you’ve got to change your mindset. It’s not as simple as it sounds, however. Our actions follow our thinking, so it’s critical that you’re not just changing your behaviors to try and achieve results. You’ve also got to change your mind. That way, you’re living and embodying the transformation you’re trying to achieve, rather than paying it mere lip service. [06:15] “If you just try to do the right tactics and strategies and figure out what the successful people are doing, and you just try to implement behavior… the challenge is you can exhaust yourself… when your mindset is still over here, stuck in the old way… that’s pulling you back into your old way of operating.” In order to accomplish a full transformation, you’ve got to shift your thinking from a self-centric standpoint to a world-centric standpoint. Rather than examining your actions from a standpoint of personal gain, you want to think about how your actions can benefit the world around you. How will your actions benefit your clients, your children, your community? If you want to leave a legacy, you have to think beyond yourself, to the things and people you’ll leave behind. Examples of a legacy could include a charitable foundation that lasts beyond your lifetime. It could be the banking system that you leave to your kids, who in turn leave to their kids, and hopefully on in perpetuity. Your legacy could be your company, or it could be as simple as the fond way that people remember you. You won’t always get to choose your impact, but you can choose the actions you take in the here and now, and that has a lot of influence on what impressio

Jul 8, 202425 min

Infinite Banking Concept: Maximizing Financial Windfalls

Today, we're answering a listener question on maximizing financial windfalls: Can you do a future episode on what to do with a windfall? Specifically, the use of a premium deposit fund over many years and dumping it into a 7-pay or 10-pay policy. I would love to hear how this could be an option for inheritance or selling a business or property. https://www.youtube.com/live/cRRw5Hi_B90 What should you do when a financial windfall lands in your lap? Whether it's from selling a business, a property, or receiving an inheritance, knowing how to manage and maximize a large influx of cash can be daunting. On this episode of the Money Advantage podcast, we tackle this critical question by breaking down strategic approaches tailored to individual financial goals and circumstances. Using the analogy of a sailboat, we explore how to incorporate additional funds into a well-balanced policy without risking instability or running afoul of modified endowment contract laws. Our discussion touches on the considerations for managing windfalls through life insurance policies. We look at the sustainability of funding new policies beyond the initial windfall and the implications of different funding durations, like 10-pay versus 30-pay options. The potential benefits of convertible term life insurance and practical steps for integrating significant windfalls into your policy are highlighted. You’ll gain insights into cash flow strategies and premium deposit funds, all aligned with long-term financial goals. Finally, we examine the benefits and pitfalls of various policy designs. From the "skinny base policy" with large Paid-Up Additions (PUAs) to the risks of prematurely hitting human life value limits, we cover it all. Our conversation also dives into the actuarial decisions that impact policy performance, emphasizing the importance of flexible policy designs to adapt to future changes. Can You Design a Policy to Store a Windfall?Policy Design for Maximizing Financial WindfallsUsing a Windfall to Pay Policy LoansFund an Investment FirstBook A Strategy Call Can You Design a Policy to Store a Windfall? One of the most common questions we get pertaining to windfalls—i.e. Unpredictable sums of money like an inheritance—is can you design a life insurance policy to plunk that money into? It’s a smart question, especially if you are currently implementing an Infinite Banking strategy. After all, if you already know that life insurance is your preferred asset for warehousing wealth, why wouldn’t you do so? So what’s the answer? Well, you certainly can design a whole life insurance policy to house a windfall, but you might not want to. At least, you might not want to put that money in via a lump sum. Otherwise, you run the risk of your policy turning into a MEC, or modified endowment contract. A whole life insurance policy can become a MEC by over-funding it and doing so means that it loses its designation as an insurance asset in the eyes of the IRS and it loses its tax advantages. Think of your life insurance premiums as a sailboat. The base premium is the boat itself, the hull. To put additional funds into the policy, you would add term riders, which would be like the mast of the sailboat. Then, the PUAs are like the sails. If the mast or the sails get too big relative to the base of the boat, it’s going to tip over. It won’t be efficient—becoming a MEC. If you're trying to design a policy now for a potential windfall later, you would be designing a policy with a "skinny base" in order to have room for PUAs later. But doing this creates an unstable policy. All of this is to say, you definitely want to add sufficient term insurance riders and PUAs in a policy, but be careful to keep it balanced for your personal goals. Some people may want to have a MEC, but it’s better to do so when you’re choosing to, rather than by accident or carelessness. Policy Design for Maximizing Financial Windfalls So what can you do to create a well-balanced policy with a windfall? One of the first questions you should ask yourself when buying a new policy is, will you be able to fund it properly going forward? This will shape the type of policy you get. For example, if you receive a sufficiently large windfall, a 10-pay policy (one that you pay in 10 years) might be a good option for you if you can’t foresee being able to continue funding a policy without the windfall money. Another option, if you’re unsure whether you can afford to keep maintaining a policy, is to buy convertible term insurance that you can convert into whole life insurance over time. This way you lock in your insurability and secure temporary coverage, but you still have the option to turn this into permanent coverage as your income and human life value increases over time. Using a Windfall to Pay Policy Loans Another option, if you receive a windfall, is to put that money to use in your current personal economy. If you’re already using an Infinite Ban

Jul 1, 202445 min

Why Dividend Rates Don’t Matter

When searching for an Infinite Banking policy, a common question is, which company will give me the best dividend rate? Today we dive into answering why dividend rates don't matter. The perception is that the highest dividend rate will turn out to be the best policy performance over time, ending up with the highest growth in your policy, and giving you the greatest financial benefits. https://www.youtube.com/live/kKpzquetov4 But this is the wrong approach to building capital and becoming your own banker by using Infinite Banking to build growing, accessible capital you can use. Today we bust common misconceptions and highlight the various factors that influence your policy's dividends—from the guaranteed interest rate to the financial strategies of insurance companies—arming you with the knowledge to make savvy, long-term financial decisions. We also break down the all-important task of selecting the right insurance company for infinite banking. With a keen eye on the practices of various insurance companies, we emphasize the role of long-term stability and customer-focused service. Understand why the initial illustrations aren't the be-all and end-all, and learn the importance of a company’s conservative financial practices in sustaining your policy’s performance over time. Finally, we tackle the dynamic nature of dividend rates and how infinite banking principles can help you maximize the compounding growth of your cash value, even when borrowing against your policy. This episode is packed with practical advice on implementing infinite banking now to ensure your financial assets are secure and growing for future generations. Don’t miss out on these invaluable insights that go beyond the numbers to profoundly impact your financial future. To find out why dividend rates don't matter, and see how to avoid the dividend rate comparison trap that prevents you from having the greatest success with Infinite Banking... tune in today! Planning for Long-Term SuccessWhat Are Dividends?What Does the Declared Dividend Mean?Dividends and Contractual IncreasesWhy Dividend Rates Don't MatterBook A Strategy Call Planning for Long-Term Success When you engage in the Infinite Banking Concept, it’s important to remember that you’re seeking long-term success—over your lifetime, but also for generations to come. Dividends can be a major part of that, but not in the same way you’ve been trained to think about them in the stock market. Dividends in the life insurance realm work a bit differently, and they may seem low to you if you’re used to chasing high rates of return. [4:32] “[The ‘Seven Generations Legacy’ is] this idea and this concept of being able to create something that you can benefit seven generations ahead. And the thinking required to do something of that proportion means that you have to put systems in place that you yourself cannot fully control. You’re putting them in motion, you’re being the impetus, the starting point, the spark that starts something.” What Are Dividends? The technical definition of a whole life insurance dividend is a refund of excess premium. This is often used to detract from the value of dividends because it’s “just money that you overpaid.” However, this is just a definition for IRS classification and is not the reality of dividends if you actually examine a life insurance policy. Because once you examine a life insurance policy, you’ll see that those designed for cash value growth will eventually have a cash value that exceeds all premiums ever paid to the policy. So how could you be overpaying? Dividends are a portion of the company's profits that you receive as a partial owner of the mutual company you have a policy with. The company uses income from your premium payments to make investments into assets like bonds. When the company profits, they must share those profits with policy owners, and that comes in the form of a dividend. Insurance companies declare a dividend rate each year, although every company makes calculations differently, and those calculations are proprietary. What Does the Declared Dividend Mean? Most people think of “cash value” as the money in your life insurance policy when really it’s all in the phrasing. Your cash value is the current value of your policy. It’s not actual cash. It only becomes cash if you surrender your policy, and the cash value at that point in time is what you’ll receive in actual cash. It’s your equity. So what does this have to do with dividends? Well, it means that you can’t really look at your dividend as a rate of return on your cash, because you don’t have cash. [09:35] “So the first thing I think people need to understand is [that] dividends are not a percentage of crediting on your particular cash value. If a company declares a 5.5% dividend, you cannot just say ‘Oh, my cash value is going to grow by 5.5% that year.’ Why can’t you say that? Because that 5.5% is a gross dividend in many cases.” The declared

Jun 24, 2024

Family Business Longevity, with Rob Ferguson

Family businesses have a shrinking lifespan. Families in business together face conflicts and challenges that have made it increasingly difficult to build a business that lasts generations. Yet Rob Ferguson, founder of Ferguson Alliance, says that family businesses can live to infinity with the right systems and tools. Today, we're discussing how the key components of communication, shared vision, and financials drive family business health. https://www.youtube.com/live/HZ1pR-ixHVY So, whether your family business goals are solving family conflict and disruption, 10X growth, or acquisitions, tune in today to learn how to increase the strength and longevity of your family business. This episode peels back the layers on how to foster generational wealth and maintain harmony within family-run companies. The conversation homes in on the essential strategies for early and intentional planning for business succession, highlighting the common pitfalls and conflicts that can derail even the strongest family enterprises. With a wealth of experience, Rob guides us through the complexities of steering companies toward sustainable growth, ensuring they can withstand the test of time and the changing tides of business culture. Join us as we reflect on the shifts in family dynamics and their influence on the longevity of family businesses from the 1950s to our current global market. We weigh the tough decisions family businesses confront when choosing to prioritize the business or the family unit. Rob's expert perspective shines a light on how those who focus on the business side often enjoy greater longevity. Yet, he also emphasizes the unique strength that comes from integrating core family values into the business ethos, which can be a potent strategy for success across generations. The crescendo of our discussion centers on the art of succession planning. It's a delicate balance that requires giving the next generation both guidance and the freedom to choose their path while ensuring a clear separation of wealth transition, ownership transition, and leadership transition. We explore the profound impact of involving multiple generations in business conversations and the establishment of family constitutions and mission statements. With the wisdom shared by Rob, families are empowered to craft legacies that not only survive but flourish for generations to come. The Beginning of a PassionCreating Family Business LongevityFamily ValuesNavigating Conflict When Transitioning the BusinessAbout Rob FergusonConnect with Rob FergusonBook A Strategy Call The Beginning of a Passion Fifteen to sixteen years ago, Rob Ferguson was the CEO of a 5th generation industrial packaging company, with about 17 cousins involved in the business. Rob was brought in as the first non-family executive to get the business back into shape and sell it. While that was all in the works, Rob recognized that there had to be a way to prevent family businesses from getting to that point of “destruction,” in order to help more families keep their legacy alive and in the family. [08:20] “Family businesses in America as we know generate—I think it was right after the pandemic—they generated 78% of all the new jobs. 60% of GDP comes from family business. Almost all of our philanthropy donations come from family businesses. And then if you think about all of the innovation that we’ve seen and experienced, again, they started off as family businesses.” Ferguson Alliance was built from Rob’s passion for helping family businesses stay in business and keep the legacy alive. Creating Family Business Longevity So what’s changing, and why is it important to keep fighting for family businesses in 2024 and beyond? So what is the major obstacle for family businesses? It’s getting families oriented around their “north star.” When Ferguson Alliance works with a new family business, the first thing they do is ask a very simple question with a very challenging, yet personal, answer. The first question is: Do you want to be a family-first business or do you want to be a business-first family? You can probably see why this is a difficult question, but there’s truly no right or wrong answer. There’s just an answer that works for your goals and your family dynamic. Once a family business has that answer, they’ve got to commit to it, so that it becomes the center pull for all decisions made thereafter. This will help families stick to their guns more easily, rather than being swayed by temporary obstacles or opinions. What Rob can share is that business-first families tend to have a much longer longevity. The business Rob was initially brought on to help fix and flip 16 years ago was a family-first business. This isn’t to say one is a better choice than another, yet it’s critical to think about the implications of each model. And when you put the business first, you have a business that has a greater potential to help the family for generations to come. Family Val

Jun 17, 202449 min

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 33: Recap

Join the wealth revolution and see how understanding banks and banking allows you to create financial freedom by becoming your own banker. We're wrapping up our series on Nelson Nash's pivotal work on Infinite Banking, his book Becoming Your Own Banker. Unlock the secrets to becoming the master of your own financial destiny with our eye-opening discussion on 'Becoming Your Own Banker.' https://www.youtube.com/live/K2xm9EKp67Q Say goodbye to the days of simply being a cog in the banking machine and hello to wielding Infinite Banking to your advantage. We wrap up our enlightening series by emphasizing the shift from passive consumer to proactive controller of your capital. Diving straight into the heart of financial empowerment, we unravel the misconceptions sold by social media 'experts' and emphasize the importance of understanding and solving the core issues, rather than getting lost in product illustrations. It's all about prioritizing saving over borrowing to secure your financial freedom. Bruce joins us to offer his insights into Nelson's critique of the banking and insurance sectors, and their reluctance to embrace practices that put you in the driver's seat of your financial journey. Discover the commitment required to build discipline and generational wealth, and the subtle art of respecting your own money as you would a traditional bank's. We also explore investment strategies for long-term growth, drawing inspiration from Warren Buffett, and delve into the importance of economic literacy for sustaining wealth. By the end of this episode, you'll have an arsenal of tools and resources to lay the foundation for a legacy of prosperity. The Arrival SyndromeWhat Does it Mean to Become Your Own Banker?Book A Strategy Call The Arrival Syndrome Over the course of our year and a half spent dissecting Becoming Your Own Banker, one of the most stand-out lessons is to avoid “arrival syndrome.” Arrival Syndrome was Nelson’s term for thinking that you have everything figured out. And the problem with this mindset is that you become unwilling to learn, and often unwilling to revisit old ideas. And yet, there isn’t a single person who has everything all figured out. Arrival Syndrome is something to avoid whether you’re brand new, or you’ve been in an industry for decades. It is simply not a mindset that will serve you well. Even as Bruce and I dug into the book, we found ourselves seeing the same information in a new light, and we have both studied Infinite Banking for many years. Bruce himself studied with Nelson while he was alive. And so it really goes to show that you can always put yourself in a beginner’s shoes and learn something. What Does it Mean to Become Your Own Banker? A common misunderstanding about Infinite Banking is that you’re building your own bank. However, what you’re really doing is becoming a banker. By building cash value in a life insurance policy, you’re creating a pool of money that you have complete control over, that way you can be the one to assume the banking function, cutting out the middleman. Then, when you need access to capital, you don’t have to beg for it and convince an institution that you’re worth it. This means that you also get complete control over the financing terms, like when you pay it back, how frequently, and even how much. By assuming this kind of control in your life, you have a lot more power over your assets and their growth. When you have to rely on external forces for your banking, you can lose out on opportunities or otherwise find yourself limited. So remember—Infinite Banking is about taking on the role of the banker in your life. It’s also important to note that Infinite Banking is for those who have already established good money habits. This is not a strategy you can implement if you’re trying to get out of debt or fix your financial problems. Good habits mean that you don’t have massive consumer debt, you’re saving money regularly, and you’re in a position of capital but you’re seeking the right place to store it. And if you don’t have these habits yet, you can build them for yourself—once you do, the concept of Infinite Banking will be waiting for you to tap into. [27:11] “The simplicity of this message is [to] store capital. Be in a position where you’re not just having to borrow from the banks in order to finance your life, [or] you’re not just having to pay cash. Because in either situation you’re paying interest—you’re either paying interest to the banks for their capital, or you give up the interest that you could have earned. Instead of either of those, store your own capital. Become your own banker.” Book A Strategy Call Do you want to coordinate your finances so that everything works together to improve your life today, accelerate time and money freedom, and leave the greatest legacy? We can help! Book an Introductory Call with our team today https://themoneyadvantage.com/calendar/, and fin

Jun 10, 202430 min

Stop the Hustle and Grind, with Christine Jewell

Are you an ultra-high achiever, but feeling the cost of that success? https://www.youtube.com/live/AZ3FxdpPULY Christine Jewell, author, keynote speaker, faith-based executive coach, and host of the Breaking Chains podcast, joins us today to provide a fresh solution. In her new book, Drop the Armor, Christine teaches you a transformational approach that allows you to stop the hustle and cultivate a life of total alignment and lead from abundance and flow. We've all felt the weight of the world on our shoulders, chasing success at the expense of our peace. That's where Christine Jewell steps in, a faith-based executive coach who is redefining what it means to achieve. In our conversation, she shares her wisdom on living authentically, urging us to shed the armor of relentless hard work and embrace a life aligned with our true purpose. Unpack the journey of finding fulfillment that isn't tied to the next promotion or paycheck, especially resonant for those in high-stress fields like finance and tech. Christine's personal stories are not only insightful but also a testament to the impact of her strategies, which she has applied in her own life with remarkable success. You might expect a discussion with an executive coach to focus solely on climbing the corporate ladder, but Christine's approach is anything but conventional. This episode takes us on a deep exploration of balancing masculine and feminine energies, navigating an identity crisis, and unraveling societal pressures. Christine's reflections on growing up with a high-achieving father paint a vivid picture of the toll that relentless ambition can take, guiding us through her transformative experiences. Learn how hitting rock bottom can be the beginning of true transformation, realigning life with core beliefs for a more peaceful existence. For anyone who's ever felt lost in the hustle, Christine's insights offer a beacon of hope. Christine invites us into a profound dialogue about time, purpose, and fulfillment. She contrasts the chronological with the spiritual, inviting us to ponder life's mysteries and the human quest for understanding. Her book "The Perfect Storm" emerges as a centerpiece of the conversation, promising to guide readers toward true peace and alignment with divine will. We wrap up with a reminder that adopting the habits of successful individuals can enrich our lives beyond measure. It's not just about financial success; it's about crafting a life brimming with fulfillment and joy. Join us for this episode, where Christine Jewell illuminates the path to a more balanced, purpose-driven existence. From Stressed to ThrivingThe Masculine/Feminine DynamicThe World’s Identity CrisisThe Journey to PublishingGet a Copy of Christine’s BookBook A Strategy Call From Stressed to Thriving If you’re a high-achiever who seemingly runs on stress, then you’ll understand exactly where Christine Jewell comes from. A world-class athlete and a dedicated worker who had been building businesses since her early 20s, Christine appeared to have it all. As she puts it, she was “always working it,” always seeking the next big break, and striving for accolades. Her motto was that second place is the first loser. This pressure fueled her, but not in a sustainable way. By her 30s, Christine found herself going through a divorce and hitting the grind even harder. But underneath that tough exterior, there were cracks in the armor. Anxiety and fear were creeping in, and Christine found that peace and relaxation were impossible, even when that was her goal. Family trips, which were meant to restore, didn't even help this state. [7:00] “I hit that breaking point where I was just like, I am done. My body was burnt out, my soul was dried up… my relationships were unfulfilling.” This breaking point launched Christine into a real heart-to-heart with God about her faith and relationship with Him, wondering if the “hustle” was really part of the design. It didn’t make sense for life’s purpose to be an eternal struggle for more, and so she had the epiphany that life's purpose isn't about that at all. God has His design for man already, and it's not hustle culture. This revelation was the catalyst for Christine’s journey to where she is now, which is faith-based coaching for executives, to help them STOP the hustle and be both high-achieving AND at peace. And yes, it’s possible! [07:54] “So here we are today on the other side of that journey of just walking through the valley... Just really reconstructing everything in my life so it’s in integrity with what I actually believe at the core.” The Masculine/Feminine Dynamic In Christine’s book, she often addresses “dropping the armor,” which has caused more than a few people to ask who she is addressing. Is her message for men or women? To that, Christine says that she is speaking to the warrior within. This “warrior” is very masculine in nature,

Jun 3, 202440 min

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 32: How to Invest

If you want to build wealth, reach your financial goals for retirement income, and be able to take care of everything from college for your kids to paying for cars, your home, and a lifestyle you enjoy, the most common first question is, “How to invest?” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hExdqtiuhto In his signature book, Becoming Your Own Banker, Nelson Nash reveals that changing your financial environment is the lynchpin to financial freedom. For today’s discussion, we’re returning to the text to talk about financial philosophy - the typical philosophy vs. the successful philosophy, and how to finally get results by changing your thinking. We’ll discuss why rates of return are a red herring, touch on the importance of dividend rates, and explain why you should understand your finances as a system rather than a process. Prepare to redefine success beyond the allure of high investment returns, and instead, learn to master the art of personal finance by controlling your financial destiny. This episode unpacks the necessity of substantial liquid savings and the strategic management of capital, which together forge a path to superior financial control and efficiency. We shine a light on the often-overlooked reality that a substantial part of our income dissipates through financing charges, and underscore the essential nature of a robust emergency fund before taking investment leaps. Venture with us through the evolving financial paradigms, reflecting on how Bitcoin, the expanding US balance sheet, and a worrisome debt-to-GDP ratio are sculpting our economic landscape. Bruce and I explore how American consumerism shapes our spending and the significance of developing a financial acumen that evolves from unconscious incompetence to unconscious competence. With Nash's financial philosophy as our guide, we dissect the drawbacks of conventional financing and celebrate the empowerment that comes from holding the reins of one's financial affairs. Finally, we address the surge in inquiries about judicious fund allocation, proffering not a prescriptive investment playbook, but a transformative perspective on money management. I share effective banking strategies that foster automatic savings and the wealth accumulation snowball effect. As we guide you through the intricacies of financial control, we to equip you with the insights necessary to recalibrate your financial habits for a future rich in prosperity. Join us for a conversation that promises to elevate your financial literacy and position you for long-term success. Philosophy and InvestmentsWhat’s Your Philosophy?How to Invest and Rethink Your ThinkingSavings is ValuableAverage Doesn’t Mean MuchSystem vs. ProcessBook A Strategy Call Philosophy and Investments Investments are one of the keys to wealth-building, because they can help you break out of the “trading time for money” rut, which can, in turn, improve your financial life significantly. By having capital that’s not reliant on how many hours you put in, you can increase your pool of money faster, have capital to use for scaling your business, and so many other uses besides. However, your investing philosophy matters a great deal here. Not all investments work the same, or have the same results. And whole life insurance is NOT an investment, it’s an asset that can help you if you intend to invest, however. In the Glossary of Becoming Your Own Banker, Nelson shares the Webster International definition of philosophy as “a search for the underlying causes and principles of reality; a quest for truth through logical reasoning rather than factual observation; a critical examining of the grounds for fundamental beliefs, and an analysis of the basic concepts employed in the expression of such beliefs.” Commonly, we see people with an investment philosophy that chasing the highest rate of return makes the most sense. And the reason they think this way is because they want to do the most with the money that they’re trying to grow. Of course, this makes sense to an extent. And yet, this philosophy ignores what’s happening with the rest of your money. It also ignores what average rates of return mean. What’s Your Philosophy? What’s interesting is that most people don’t know where their financial philosophy comes from, or why they have it. This isn’t a judgment if you don’t. Our philosophies often come from the way we’re raised to perceive money, and it’s not often that we question that. Some families are tight-lipped about finances, while others are more open—that alone can have a profound impact on how you grow up thinking about money. What matters is that you think about your financial philosophy now, and consider why you think and feel the way you do. You’re sure to have some enlightening moments that either reinforce your beliefs or help you realize that you have room to rethink your thinking. And don’t worry, you can listen to new ideas with an open mind and still come to your own conclusions at the end o

May 28, 202436 min

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 31: Compound Interest Revealed

Is compound interest magic or discipline? A stroke of luck or the product of sound fundamentals? Fantasy or reality? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l3Wyh618yjI If you want to reap the reward of compound interest, you need to understand the game, the roles, and get on the right side of the board. Today, we'll answer: Why you are always paying interest? What is compound interest? How do you earn compound interest? When it comes to interest, what's in your best interest? Unlock the secrets of your finances and take control like never before as we dissect the fascinating world of interest and compound interest. This podcast promises to transform your understanding of wealth as we delve into the teachings of Nelson Nash, discussing the power shift that occurs when you transition from a mere interest-payer to a savvy individual wielding the banking function in your life. We bring to light how this shift can drastically alter your financial trajectory, using the potent combination of whole life insurance and the principles of Becoming Your Own Banker. Imagine harnessing a tool that empowers you to borrow with ease, ensures your money's uninterrupted growth, and offers historical reliability. That's what we reveal through the lens of a whole life insurance policy in this episode. Discover how this method can serve as a disciplined savings vehicle and a means to build and transfer wealth through generations while respecting the might of compound interest. The conversation also uncovers the strategic moves used by the affluent to maintain financial control and how you can emulate these practices for long-term gain. In our final exploration, we dissect financial contracts and ownership within the realm of whole life insurance, clarifying the various roles such as policy owner and beneficiary. The episode goes a step further by illustrating how the Infinite Banking Concept can be practically applied in your life. By modeling successful behaviors and understanding the nature of these financial tools, you're invited to embark on a journey that could redefine your approach to personal wealth and set you on a path to becoming your own banker. The Concept of Compound InterestAverage vs. Actual Rate of Return and InterestThe Compounding CurveWebster's Definition of InterestOther Glossary Definitions in Becoming Your Own BankerDefinition of Lease/Lessee/LessorDefinition of a MortgageDefinition of OwnerBook A Strategy Call The Concept of Compound Interest There are several ways to think about interest, and one is the cost of money or the cost of banking. When most people think about banking, they think about the banking industry. However, we want to talk about the banking function, by which we mean HOW money is handled. The banking function includes making deposits and withdrawals, buying financial products, and moneylending. While banks typically perform this function, there are ways to perform this function outside of banks, like with the Infinite Banking Concept, which allows you to perform the banking function with your own capital (as well as your insurance company’s capital). Interest is the cost of using that banking function. You can pay interest to institutions for the ability to use their money, or they can pay you for storing your money with them or buying one of their products. You can also pass up interest earnings by paying for things in cash, rather than financing them and continuing to benefit from compounding interest earnings on your pool of capital. So interest, essentially, is the cost of money. It can flow toward you or away from you, yet it’s a factor in every financial transaction you make, even if you’re just passing it up. Average vs. Actual Rate of Return and Interest Many people equate interest with a rate of return. And while both involve percentages, they’re not quite the same. First, let’s take a look at what people think about rates of return. In the rate of return game, many people cite the stock market as having an average of 12% returns. However, this doesn’t mean that people are earning 12% interest each year. In reality, it’s not even close in many cases, when you look at the breakdown. Think of it this way. If you have $1 this year, and next year you have $2, you’ve made a 100% return. The next year you lose $1, which is a 50% loss. The average rate of return over these two years is 25%, except you’re right where you started. So not only is the rate of return different than actual earned interest (because it’s an average), but it’s also very misleading. This is because when you lose money, you’ve got to recover your losses and then some to see any sort of positive. So why does this matter? It proves that chasing a rate of return isn’t always a sure thing. There are still losses, and an average of 12% does not mean a 12% increase each year. It’s more important to consider all factors and to separate earned interest from the average rate of return in your mind.

May 20, 202436 min

Why is Enough Never Enough, with Rabbi Daniel Lapin

Why is enough never enough? How do I know when you've made enough money, or when making money becomes too much of a concern, and you should be satisfied with what you've got? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3zBDjmeNTA Joining us to discuss this abundance paradox is a long-time friend of The Money Advantage, Rabbi Daniel Lapin. Author of Thou Shall Prosper, Business Secrets from the Bible, and The Holistic You, among other works, Rabbi Lapin is an international speaker and TV host who shares the relevancy of ancient Jewish wisdom for helping us navigate modern times and answer life's most pressing questions. Join us for a captivating discussion with Rabbi Daniel Lappin, who returns for an eighth appearance to unravel the perennial dilemma of why is enough never enough in terms of wealth and work. Listen in as we tackle the intricate balance of ambition and contentment, drawing upon Rabbi Lappin's wisdom and personal anecdotes. This dialogue is designed to guide you through the challenges of defining success and deciding when it's time to refocus your energy away from financial gain and toward the other facets of life that matter most. Discover the art of harmonizing the conflicting truths that shape our lives, as we ponder balancing professional aspirations with personal well-being. Our conversation with Rabbi Lappin illuminates the importance of relationships, health, and embracing a philosophy of service over retirement. The notion that our careers can be a calling rather than just a job is an empowering theme we delve into, exploring how finding fulfillment in service to others can enrich both our professional paths and personal growth. In this episode, we also tackle the scarcity versus abundance mindset, sharing insights on how our beliefs influence our business outcomes and life choices. Rabbi Lappin provides thought-provoking perspectives on retirement norms, the role of marketing in success, and the impact of social circles on our decisions. To round out our expansive conversation, we discuss the importance of balance across the five Fs: family, finances, friendships, faith, and fitness, and we emphasize the crucial role of effective communication in our lives. Tune in for these transformative ideas and more, as we aim to equip you with the tools to lead a more fulfilling, purpose-driven life. Why is Enough Never Enough?Where Are You Investing?Why Do We Do What We Do?Rethinking Retirement ExpectationsThe Holistic YouOther Conversations with Rabbi Lapin:Book A Strategy Call Why is Enough Never Enough? When asked about how much money is “enough,” Rabbi Lapin told us an interesting story about his daughter instead. He and his wife homeschooled their daughter for much of her life, until she decided to go into the school system. His daughter found school to be fairly easy, and getting As were no issue for her in her first semester. In her next semester, however, she started to get some Bs, and the semester after that some Cs sprinkled in. While the Rabbi and his wife were not overly concerned with grades, they did ask her about it. And his daughter answered that when she got As, she was spending too much time focused only on homework. When she got Bs, she had time for other interests and pursuits. And Cs reminded her that she wasn’t putting enough time into school. So she used her grades as a gauge in a very interesting way, outside of the typical way of thinking. For her, it was all about balancing priorities. He likens this story to the question of “enough money,” because it’s something everyone will grapple with. Is there a point at which you can say you’re doing well enough with money that you stop pursuing it? [06:07] “This is actually a very difficult question. It’s not a difficult question to answer, but it’s a difficult question to answer in a way that doesn’t indict me.” Where Are You Investing? Money is of course important. It affects everything that matters in our lives. And yet, you cannot only invest financially and live a balanced life. It is possible to work too hard, to the detriment of other areas of your life, like your relationships, family, and health. In those cases, you must remember to think about your “why.” Why are you creating your wealth in the first place? If you’re creating your wealth to improve the lives of your family, then don’t lose sight of spending quality time with your family either. Be sure to keep investing time into your health, so that you can be around for your loved ones for as long as possible. You’ve got to find balance in where you’re investing your time and energy, and that doesn’t always have to be at the expense of your wealth, either. There are ways to structure your business so that it’s working for you, and you’re not simply trading time for money. [07:55] “The mark of a great mind is the ability to hold in mind two conflicting ideas and still be able to function normally. So in other words, it’s possible to look at two ideas t

May 13, 20241h 1m

Infinite Banking Process Explained

Why does Infinite Banking work? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKdgq2KDw_s We’ll look at the flow of money through the economy, where it is pooling, who owns it, who controls it, and who gets access. This is the Infinite Banking Process explained, and this clarity will tell you everything you need to know about how money works. At its core, the Infinite Banking Concept is a strategy that utilizes a specially designed whole life insurance policy to build cash value and provide you with greater control over your finances. This is how infinite banking works - not merely as a theory, but as a real, usable financial tool. Unlock the secrets to financial sovereignty as we journey through the empowering strategy of infinite banking, inspired by Nelson Nash’s celebrated philosophy. We unravel the often misunderstood world of taking control of your own financial destiny. Imagine breaking free from traditional banking, navigating the complexities of money management with ease, and placing the power firmly in your own hands. Through our illuminating discussion, you’ll discover a straightforward approach to building your pool of wealth, gaining insights that promise to transform your relationship with money. In today’s episode, we delve into the mechanics of how money circulates within personal and economic systems, drawing insightful parallels with natural cycles and Warren Buffett’s investment principles. You’ll learn about the inner workings of life insurance companies, unveiling how you can tap into their capital reservoirs to your advantage. By embracing the simplicity of taking control of the banking function, we champion the mantra of modeling the successful few. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore how infinite banking can reshape your future, offering you the keys to constructing a life and business that reflect your true aspirations. Building Cash Value Through InsuranceInfinite Banking Process Explained: The Value of Cash ValueMoney and the Water CycleApplying the Infinite Banking StrategyReal-Life Example:Book A Strategy Call Building Cash Value Through Insurance You may have heard that Infinite Banking is “more caught than taught,” which is Nelson’s way of saying that the concept is more important to understand than the minute details. If you understand the macro perspective of how things work, you can achieve great things with IBC—the rest comes with time and study. For example, most people get hung up on the idea of rate of return when reviewing financial strategies and products. But if you place too much value on rates of return, you may lose out on other valuable benefits like liquidity, protection, tax advantages, and more. Or, if you’re too focused on getting a good rate of return, your average growth could be worse than a slow but steady rate of return. By understanding the principles of IBC—like building cash value with as much flexibility as possible—the rate of return and other concerns are minimized. We’re asking you to reframe your perspective on wealth. Whole life insurance plays a central role in how infinite banking works. It builds guaranteed cash value over time, often supplemented by non-guaranteed dividends, which many companies have paid consecutively for over a hundred years. This gives you both reliability and long-term upside. On top of that, the policy gives you liquidity through loans, allowing access to capital without interrupting growth. These features are what make whole life insurance the engine behind the strategy. Infinite Banking Process Explained: The Value of Cash Value [03:12] “Really, it’s about developing a pool of money that you can then access to take the finance charge out of your life, and when you come upon opportunities in your life, to then use that for investments. It’s really that simple.” Cash has tremendous value in our lives, and we all have a need for financing while we’re on this earth. The place where you store your cash can have a major impact on how you use it when you use it, and why you use it. By storing your cash in whole life insurance, you guarantee that you remain in control of those functions, so you can use your money when you want to, and you can finance what you want to. That’s the value of cash value. Here’s the infinite banking concept - how it works, step by step: Fund a specially designed whole life insurance policy with after-tax dollars Accumulate guaranteed cash value over time Access that cash by borrowing against the policy for large expenses or investments Repay your loan on your own terms, replenishing the cash value as you go That’s the infinite banking process explained in action: simple, repeatable, and built entirely around your control. For a complete beginner’s view of how infinite banking works, read our guide to Infinite Banking for Beginners. Money and the Water Cycle The reality of money is that it flows. It flows from one reservoir to another, like water, so we’re going to explain Infinite Banking through the analogy

May 6, 202422 min

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 29: Words Matter

Ever felt like financial jargon was designed to confuse rather than clarify? Join us as we navigate the labyrinth of financial terminology, particularly within the infinite banking sphere. It's not just about learning by rote; it's about cementing a rock-solid financial strategy based on clear, precise language. By dissecting common misconceptions, we aim to transform your understanding from hazy to laser-focused, providing you with the tools to discern financial facts from fiction and proving that words matter. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziAj2-Se8fI Journey with us as we illuminate the enigmatic world of life insurance company ratings, Comdex scores, and the lifeline that is the reserve fund. Grasping these concepts is not just about knowledge—it's about safeguarding your future dividends. Our personal stories bring these ideas to life, showing how life insurance company policies can influence your financial trajectory. We'll also equip you with a broader vision of the infinite banking concept, one that goes beyond dividends to a holistic view of accessible capital, cash value growth, and the profound benefits of a well-designed system. Finally, become the architect of your own prosperity by mastering the finance tools at your disposal. As we explore the principles of disciplined savings and strategic capital use, you'll learn to cultivate a mindset that prioritizes wealth creation over mere accumulation. We invite your questions and curiosity, as they fuel our mission to empower you to make informed, confident financial decisions. So, let's transform your understanding of finance and pave the way to a thriving financial legacy. And clarity in the fundamentals leads to clarity in your use of the whole strategy. Join us as we continue the series through Becoming Your Own Banker with Part 2 on the Glossary of Terms. IBC Glossary of Terms, ContinuedDefinition of Co-GenerationDefinition of ClassificationDefinition of Contingency FundDefinition of EarningsThe Fundamentals of Infinite BankingBook A Strategy Call IBC Glossary of Terms, Continued Definition of Co-Generation This is a term used in conversations on electrical power that acknowledges that there are many sources from which to generate power within the distribution system, many of which are both producers and consumers of power. In other words, to generate the end product (electricity/power) there isn’t just one component, and it isn’t just producing. Many components within the system produce AND consume power before the final product is complete. Applied to banking, you can understand that in a properly working system, there are going to be times for capitalization (“producing”) and times for leverage (“consuming”). The process of banking is not just stockpiling, it is ALL functions of money. Definition of Classification Webster’s Dictionary defines classification as “the act of grouping into classes that have systematic relations, usually founded on common properties.” In other words, we all classify things based on their major characteristics. Classification is a great tool because it can help us compartmentalize new information and fit it into what we already know. But when it comes to life insurance, there is a great challenge, which is laid out in Becoming Your Own Banker, to rethink your thinking. After all, it would be tempting to classify life insurance as any other insurance product and move on. But when we do this, we miss out on the chance to form a proper mental construct of what whole life insurance is and can do. Though life insurance is certainly insurance, whole life insurance with a dividend-paying mutual insurance company shares characteristics with banking, and should be classified as such. It just requires that you see things a little bit differently and dig a bit deeper. Definition of Contingency Fund This is the amount of money an insurance company retains as surplus after paying death claims, expenses, and dividends. This is the insurance company’s balance sheet, and their contingency fund (surplus) is a sign of strength. If an insurance company has a healthy contingency fund after paying all expenses and dividends, you can be confident in their ability to pay future dividends, too. The reason whole life insurance companies have this fund is because they make very conservative, long-term investments that allow them to make a profit on behalf of their policyholders, which comes back to policyholders as dividends. Mutual companies must invest conservatively, because this translates to long-term success, rather than short-term gain. Definition of Earnings The earnings of a life insurance policy are based on the company’s mortality expense and investment experience during the year. These earnings are non-guaranteed dividends, which is why they’re dependent on those factors. Fortunately, despite being non-guaranteed, they’re also highly expected. Most mutual companies have paid dividends every year

Apr 29, 20241h 1m

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 28: Infinite Banking Definitions

Have you ever felt like you're on a financial hamster wheel, constantly spinning but never gaining traction? Join us as we unpack the epilogue and glossary of Nelson Nash's "Becoming Your Own Banker." It's a journey through the intricate philosophy of IBC, as we cover Infinite Banking definitions that shows how effective money management can reduce your reliance on financial institutions—empowering you to take charge of your financial destiny. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_87p12Kasus As we comb through the fine print of Nash's teachings, we illuminate the idea that banking extends well beyond the brick-and-mortar institutions we're accustomed to. It's a profound discussion that traverses the importance of adhering to principles and contract terms, the influence of family values on Nash's strategies, and the critical role of capital in both your personal finances and the broader economy. Imagine building a financial foundation so robust that you negotiate life's transactions from a position of strength. We reveal how this can be your reality through the strategic use of whole life insurance as a personal banking system. Wrapping up with a profound understanding of policy ownership in mutual life insurance companies, we explore how this positions you uniquely to reap dividends and control the banking process. It's not just about being on the receiving end of profits; it's about ownership and the control that comes with it. Tune in as we guide you through the mechanics of life insurance policies, the growth of cash value, and how paying interest on policy loans can play into the success of your financial strategy. Our conversation is more than a lesson; it's a revelation on how to unlock the full potential of Infinite Banking and claim autonomy over your financial future. Want to be successful with Infinite Banking? Make sure you understand your Infinite Banking policy by knowing these terms and definitions. The Truth About Infinite BankingInfinite Banking DefinitionsDefinition of BankingDefinition of CapitalDefinition of Capitalization PeriodDefinition of Cash ValueBook A Strategy Call The Truth About Infinite Banking [7:50] “When you think about Infinite Banking, it is not a product. I think so many times people think this is a product. ‘I can buy this life insurance that does a protective job in my financial life.’” Whole life insurance is a product. This much is true. However, Infinite Banking is a concept and a process that you apply to the product. It’s entirely possible to have whole life insurance without ever employing the Infinite Banking concept. And so you have to be careful that you don’t simply buy the product and stop there. You’ve also got to implement good strategies and habits so that you actually execute the banking function in your life. This takes work, education, and guidance. [13:19] “You put a tool in the hand of somebody that doesn’t know how to use it, they’re going to break the tool. So Infinite Banking is a tool. If you do not follow the basic tenets, it could fail on you. And what does fail mean [in this case]? It means the life insurance doesn’t stay in place. But not because the concept was bad, [but] because you did not follow through with what the contract said it was going to be.” Infinite Banking Definitions As we reach the end of our series on Becoming Your Own Banker, we reach the Glossary, in which Nelson defines the major terms and words used throughout the book. This can help you can a deeper understanding and appreciation for what's happening within the Infinite Banking "Concept," so that you can apply it with greater understanding. Definition of Banking If you’re going to implement Infinite Banking, first you want to identify regular banking. The Webster definition of banking is “the business of a bank; originally restricted to money changing and now devoted to taking money on deposit subject to check or draft, loaning money, and credit, and any other associated form of general dealing in money or credit.” As you can see, banking isn’t just about storing your cash or using your cash. It’s ALL functions of money dealing. And you cannot control that for yourself when you solely rely on a bank. By adding whole life insurance into the mix, you give yourself another option for loans, money storage, growth, and more. Definition of Capital Webster’s Dictionary defines capital as “accumulated possessions calculated to bring in income.” These accumulated possessions can, according to Webster’s Dictionary, include assets, resources, sources of strength, and advantages that aid in furthering a pursuit. [21:50] “The purpose of capital is probably the most important part. The purpose is to accomplish an end or further a pursuit. What could an end or pursuit be? I don’t know—family flourishing. [Or] could it be a particular dollar amount? Could it be a retirement income stream? What you’ll note is tha

Apr 22, 20241h 2m

Nelson Nash’s Legacy: Think Tank 2024 Recap

Embark on a transformative financial odyssey with us as we reflect on our profound experiences at the Nelson Nash Think Tank for 2024. Unlock the doors to personal economic empowerment with the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC), a brainchild of the late Nelson Nash that revolutionizes the use of dividend-paying whole life insurance. We shed light on the historical roots and celebrate Nelson Nash's legacy, dissecting how 'banking' transcends traditional institutions to become a powerful financial tool. As we honor Nash's vision, we invite you to join us in forging a path toward reclaiming financial control and crafting a resilient legacy for generations to come. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0G72iWOShEk Tune in to hear about the most important work the Nelson Nash Institute is doing to advance the message of the Infinite Banking Concept, preserve Nelson Nash's Legacy, and help more families build sustainable wealth. Your Need for FinanceNelson Nash's Legacy: IBC Principles1. Think Long-Range2. Don’t Be Afraid to Capitalize3. Don’t Steal the Peas4. Don’t Do Business with Banks5. Rethink Your ThinkingThe Biggest Takeaway from the 2024 IBC Think TankThe Economic Value of CertaintyDoes the Insurance Matter?Links Mentioned:Book A Strategy Call Your Need for Finance At the beginning of Becoming Your Own Banker, Nelson Nash states that it demonstrates that your need for financing over your lifetime will be greater than your need for protection. And this is the foundation of Infinite Banking, which helps families create their own financing resources first, in a way that also offers some protection. The second thing he says, right at the beginning of the book, is that finance is not about investments. It’s about how people finance their lives, which can certainly include investments. This is because ultimately, interest rates will always go up and down, making investments a variable risk. And yet, there will be a constant need over your lifetime to finance or fund things. Therefore, the banking function should be a priority. The Nelson Nash Institute, which hosts the annual Think Tank for IBC practitioners, is geared towards education for advisors. It helps boost camaraderie within the field, as well as ensure that IBC practitioners are on the same page about what Infinite Banking is and is not. This ensures that when you are speaking with an IBC practitioner, you’re speaking with someone who knows how to help you create a banking function for YOUR needs, without becoming unbalanced or ineffective. [37:10] “[Nelson] said that we have to have a program [so] that if a person’s going to call this Infinite Banking, that they actually understand Austrian economics, they understand whole life insurance in general, and why it is a rock solid institution that’s been around longer than any of these other types of insurance.” Nelson Nash's Legacy: IBC Principles Think Tank is a fantastic time for IBC practitioners to get together and reaffirm the basics, as well as build advanced skills. From Bruce’s perspective, here are some of the key takeaways about whole life insurance and IBC from the event. 1. Think Long-Range Many people think about their finances from a short-range perspective, especially when chasing rates of return. They think about what’s good for them now, without considering the implications a few decades out. This is actually how we’ve been trained to think by society. So instead of making choices that delay gratification for greater success and stability later, people are stuck thinking only a few years ahead. Whole life insurance helps people conduct long-range strategies because it’s an asset you can use over your whole life. While there’s a capitalization phase, you have the opportunity to make shorter-range decisions while knowing that in the long term, you’ve got your bases covered. After all, you’ve got replenishing capital, as well as a legacy to leave to your heirs for a generational approach. 2. Don’t Be Afraid to Capitalize Capitalization takes time, and many people have concerns about “missing out” on opportunities during this phase. However, the capitalization phase—where you’re focused on building your personal reserves—is critical to your long-term success. You may feel like there’s not much happening but don’t be afraid to really focus on this time in your IBC implementation. Without your pool of capital, you can’t properly carry out the banking function. 3. Don’t Steal the Peas This refers to the idea that just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should. More specifically, just because you CAN withdraw funds rather than leverage them, or leverage them without repaying loans, doesn’t mean you SHOULD. While this can seem harmless in the short term, since it is your money, this can lead to bad habits and the loss of integrity within your banking system. It’s better to be an “honest” banker and do things by the book so that you’re not short-changing your f

Apr 15, 20241h 4m

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 27: 7 Money Myths that are Costing You, Continued

Is what you think about money actually true? Is it helping or hurting you? Moving you forward and expanding your influence, or limiting you and your potential? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YerQ46AgjZE If you joined us last week, you know that in true Bruce and Rachel fashion, we only covered half of our intended conversation, so we're back to reveal more money myths in Part 2. Here, you'll get a detox from harmful thinking about money, so you can gain back financial health and control. Tune in as we continue our series through Nelson Nash's book, Becoming Your Own Banker, where we discuss retirement plans, the stock market, paying cash, and life insurance needs analysis. And this is one place that the final points to consider might just be the most important part of the book. If you want to keep more money, have more future income, and live with more peace of mind along the way, join us for down-to-earth real talk about money that you'll wish you already knew. Money Myths that are Costing You Money, Continued4. Tax-Qualified Plans are Best5. You Should Only Do One Thing6. You Should Always Pay Cash7. Life Insurance is About NeedsBook A Strategy Call Money Myths that are Costing You Money, Continued 4. Tax-Qualified Plans are Best The most popular qualified plan, of course, is the 401k. The 401k is an account that allows people to contribute some of their paycheck to be invested on their behalf. Once locked away, that money cannot be accessed without penalty until age 59 and a half. Then, once you do access it, it’s time to pay major taxes. So why does the 401k have such a grasp on the financial world? Because it’s specifically designed for retirement savings, and it gives people a way to feel like they’re investing and doing something big with their money. And don’t get us wrong—it’s better to save money somewhere than to do nothing at all. The problem is in thinking that a 401k or an IRA are your only options. After all, these are government-designed products that benefit the government, too. While that alone doesn’t discredit qualified plans, it should stop and make you think. [12:53] “When a government creates a problem… and then turns around and grants you the exception to the problem they created, aren’t you a little bit suspicious that you’re being manipulated?” So, if qualified plans are not the best assets to save for retirement, what are the best? The short answer is anything within your control. The longer answer is that you want an asset like whole life insurance where your dollars are preserved, growing, and accessible whenever you want them to be. [22:50] “Investing is a fabulous idea, but not for the purpose of having safe money. Not for the purpose of having money that you can depend on in the future.” 5. You Should Only Do One Thing Another common financial myth is that there’s only one right thing to do. This couldn’t be further from the truth. What matters far more is your order of operations. If you invest first, without having savings to support you, it's going to be unpleasant when you need to dip into your capital and you cannot. So, savings have to come first. Then, once you have a good foundation, and you have capital that isn’t just secure but is also growing, you can start employing some of those dollars in investments. Those investments can grow, and even if something goes wrong, you’ll still have a solid foundation. Whole life insurance is an important asset for many reasons, but we aren’t suggesting it’s the only thing you do. We simply recommend it as a starting place that will make all of your future financial decisions that much stronger. And if you are being told that you should only do one thing with your money, question why that is. [45:30] “When you are putting money into a situation that is deferring tax, you just don’t have control over how much you will end up getting off that account balance in the end.” 6. You Should Always Pay Cash After all, if you pay cash for as much as possible, you’re saving yourself hundreds or thousands of dollars in interest, right? While it is true that you’re saving yourself an interest cost, you’re also losing out on potential interest earnings. This means that whether you realize it or not, there is always an interest cost to your decisions. You’re either paying it or passing it up. This is why we say that you finance everything you buy. Whole life insurance makes it possible for you to earn interest AND leverage your own dollars. 7. Life Insurance is About Needs Finally, according to the financial talking heads of the world, insurance is only about your needs. What they mean by this, is that you shouldn’t own a single penny more of life insurance than you would need to pay your debts. However, not only are the people saying this only truly talking about term insurance, but they’re also not seeing the bigger picture. The reality is that your need for financing over your lifetime is greater than your need for i

Apr 8, 202452 min

The Power of Trusts for Generational Wealth with Joel Nagel

If you're reading this, chances are you've already taken the first step towards securing your financial future. But what about the financial futures of your children, grandchildren, or even your great-grandchildren? The journey towards financial stability isn't a one-generation game; it's about creating a lasting legacy that will provide for your loved ones long after you're gone. Today, we discuss the power of trusts for generational wealth. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rb44Ad7Eg1k I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Joel Nagel, an international business attorney who has spent over three decades specializing in asset protection and estate planning. Joel generously shared some incredible insights and strategies for building and protecting a generational wealth dynasty, and I'm thrilled to share these insights with you. The Power of Trusts for Generational Wealth with Joel NagelTrusts and Insurance: A Harmonious Wealth Transfer StrategyUsing Trusts to Protect and Grow Your WealthDiversifying Assets for Long-Term StabilityEducating the Next GenerationNavigating Offshore InvestmentsConclusion: Your Journey Towards a Financial LegacyBook A Strategy Call The Power of Trusts for Generational Wealth with Joel Nagel First things first, Joel highlighted the importance of structuring wealth in a way that transcends personal estate planning. This isn't just about making a will or setting up a basic trust; it's about taking strategic steps to minimize estate taxes and preserve wealth for multiple generations. Joel recommends considering the establishment of international trusts. These legal structures provide a level of protection that domestic trusts may not, safeguarding your wealth from litigation and political policy changes. It's a forward-thinking approach that requires a deeper understanding of the global financial landscape, but the potential benefits for your financial legacy are substantial. Trusts and Insurance: A Harmonious Wealth Transfer Strategy What struck me during our discussion was Joel's emphasis on the relationship between trusts and life insurance. He described this synergy as a "legacy-building machine," and it's not hard to see why. When you set up a trust, you're protecting your assets from estate taxes upon your death. Add life insurance into the mix, and you've got a mechanism to transfer wealth to the next generation tax-free. This strategy ensures that the assets in the trust continue to benefit your heirs, creating a financial legacy that spans generations. Using Trusts to Protect and Grow Your Wealth To illustrate the power of trusts for generational wealth, Joel shared a case where a trust with offshore funds successfully defended in court. This story serves as a testament to the robust legal strategies available to protect trust assets. He also emphasized the benefits of using lending within trusts for generational wealth, as opposed to outright gifting. This approach, employed by prominent families like the DuPonts and Kennedys, can motivate beneficiaries to focus on wealth accumulation and responsible financial management. It's a fascinating way to foster financial growth while also encouraging good money habits. Diversifying Assets for Long-Term Stability In addition to strategic trust management, Joel also highlighted the importance of diversifying your assets. He specifically recommended investments in gold and real estate, noting that these tangible assets have historically demonstrated resilience against inflation and economic shifts. Additionally, understanding and utilizing legal structures like onshore and offshore trusts, limited partnerships, and corporations can further fortify your family's financial standing. It's all about spreading your wealth across different asset classes to ensure long-term stability. Educating the Next Generation One of the most critical aspects of generational wealth, according to Joel, is educating the younger members of your family about wealth management. It's not enough to simply leave them a trust fund; they need to understand how to manage that wealth responsibly. Joel recommends involving children in family businesses and trusts early on, fostering a culture of stewardship and long-term planning. He also suggests linking trust withdrawals to personal earnings, a strategy that can discourage dependency on trust funds while promoting financial independence. Navigating Offshore Investments Towards the end of our discussion, we delved into the benefits of offshore investments. Joel brought up the example of South American teak farms, which offer both environmental and economic advantages. This kind of specialized knowledge is essential for those seeking to diversify their investments and build a lasting financial legacy. Conclusion: Your Journey Towards a Financial Legacy My conversation with Joel Nagel was enlightening, to say the leas

Apr 1, 202452 min

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 26: Top 7 Money Myths, Lies That Are Costing You Money

What if what you think about money turned out not to be true? Even worse, what if you're believing lies that are costing you money? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AuThVweoNlU Embark on a journey as we unravel the twisted web of money myths holding you back from true wealth. Inspired by Nelson Nash and flavored with insights from David Stearns, our discussion breaks down seven misconceptions that have snaked their way into your financial beliefs. From the debated need for dual incomes to the complex dance around tax deferral, we're here to challenge the status quo and guide your finances out of the fog and into the clear. Tune in as we continue our series through Nelson Nash's book, Becoming Your Own Banker, where we discuss increasing income, future taxes, banking, retirement plans, the stock market, paying cash, and life insurance needs analysis. And this is one place that the final points to consider might just be the most important part of the book. If you want to keep more money, have more future income, and live with more peace of mind along the way, join us to for down-to-earth real talk about money that you'll wish you already knew. Rethink Your ThinkingThe Top Money Myths1. You Need Two IncomesThe Economic Value of Homemaking It’s Better to Take the Tax DeferralMarginal Tax Brackets2. You Should Be the Customer of the BankCome Back for Part 2Book A Strategy Call Rethink Your Thinking If you want the same results you’ve been getting, you’ve got to keep doing what you’ve been doing. But if you want different results in life, you have to do something different. If the run-of-the-mill financial advice worked for people, we’d see proof of that. And yet many people who stay stuck in this way of thinking are only just keeping their heads above the water. For massive, powerful financial transformation, you have got to rethink your thinking. Stop clinging to what doesn’t work (or only marginally works) because it’s what you hear most often. Instead, look to the successful few and follow their cues. To help, we’ve compiled a list of money myths people commonly believe, and how to rethink your thinking around these topics. The Top Money Myths The dangerous thing about money myths is that they’re so prominent in our society. These are not just individual beliefs that are myths, but widely accepted cultural beliefs about money that are holding people back from true wealth. So let’s explore what these myths are, and how you can rethink your thinking about them. Below, you'll find the first three of seven money myths discussed in Becoming Your Own Banker. 1. You Need Two Incomes This is one of the trickier myths to combat because there are plenty of good reasons for families to have two incomes. Especially now, with high inflation, many families are feeling that pinch. However, thanks to Parkinson’s Law, we know that what we THINK we need and what we actually need are not the same. This means that the more money people make, the more their spending rises to meet that income. Unless, of course, that person gets a handle on that spending and turns it into a habit of saving instead. Another reason the “two-income” mindset holds us back is because it’s a limited perspective. While more money is more money, viewing income as a product of labor means that you’re always stuck trading time and work for money. If, instead, you shift your understanding of money and income as something that can be scaled and is based on your value, then it doesn’t matter whether you have one or two incomes. You may have ten sources of income! And even that may give you more time in your week to spend time raising your household, making family memories, and more. [08:10] “There’s a different way to think about it, and it’s not going to be perfectly black and white. It’s not like there’s one right way to do things. But [Nelson] just encourages us to think about [how] there are two different sources of income: people at work, and money at work. And often we just go to the quickest path, which is people at work.” Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that you need two incomes to build wealth. While it may be one of the paths you can take, there are many other valid paths that can lead to wealth. The Economic Value of Homemaking There’s also a misunderstanding that if a spouse stays home to manage the household and raise children, there’s no economic value there. However, you may be interested to know that the insurance companies DON’T see it this way. If you were to apply for life insurance as a homemaker, the insurance company would take the economic value of your workload into consideration when determining how much insurance you could get. After all, running a household is many jobs combined—personal chef, housekeeper, scheduling assistant, chauffeur, daycare, teacher, and more. It’s Better to Take the Tax Deferral People love tax-deferred products now because it’s an immediate reward that seems beneficial. After all,

Mar 25, 20241h 1m

Estate Planning 101: Protecting Your Loved Ones

Can you confidently say your family's financial future is protected? Staring down the barrel of a life-altering moment, I was forced to confront the fragility of existence and the critical importance of having one's affairs in order. That harrowing experience became a catalyst for today's soul-searching episode of the Money Advantage podcast, where we navigate the often-neglected waters of estate planning. This isn't your typical run-of-the-mill chat; it's a deep dive into preparing for the unforeseeable, ensuring that your family and cherished assets are shielded when you're no longer here. Estate planning transcends mere financial arrangements—it's about crafting a legacy that encapsulates your values and survives through the ages. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aQGy19s4OU8 As I walk you through this with the wisdom I have learned from estate planning attorneys who share our philosophy, we touch on themes beyond the balance sheet. A personal close call serves as a stark reminder of life's unpredictability, prompting the critical need to act now. But it's not all somber reflections; this episode is imbued with hope, offering a powerful free tool to help you sculpt a robust plan tailored to your life's blueprint. By the end, you'll be equipped with the insights and resources to take decisive control of your estate planning, crafting a legacy that ensures your loved ones thrive for generations. Do you know you need to do estate planning, but you're struggling with the motivation to get started because it seems time-consuming, complicated, and hard? When it comes to estate planning, procrastination is so common that it seems normal. And that's simply because most people are missing the one key thing they need to be able to move forward. So, if you'd like to make progress in just a few minutes, tune in today to find out the one question you need to ask yourself so you can get started? Estate Planning 101Getting Started with Estate PlanningThe Number One Question to StartA Personal StoryHow Prepared Are You to Protect Loved Ones?Book A Strategy Call Estate Planning 101 Estate Planning is such an integral part of financial preparation, and yet it seems like something so complicated and so encompassing that it has the potential to consume all of your focus. However, estate planning does not have to be as scary as all that. Estate planning is the process of legally planning to take care of your loved ones and take care of your financial assets ahead of time so that when you die, your affairs are sorted. While death isn’t fun to think about, having these plans is so crucial. Otherwise, you risk leaving your family and financial affairs to the whims of the probate courts. So, while you’re alive, it’s so powerful to use the financial wisdom that you have now to ensure that your wishes are carried out when you’re gone. By taking care of this essential step, you can live your life with a greater peace of mind that what you care most about will be taken care of, no matter what. While life insurance is a piece of that puzzle, there are some other considerations to take care of, and hopefully, this post can make the process just a bit easier for you. Getting Started with Estate Planning As you ready yourself to get your affairs in order, know that you must do this work with a licensed estate attorney who is licensed in the state where you live. What we’re sharing with you today is a preliminary conversation, so that you can feel confident going into the process. However, the actual planning must be carried out with the correct professional. The benefit to working with a professional is that they can look at your family, your assets, and your goals and turn that into something customized that works for you. We have some estate planning attorneys on our team who create plans for families in a way that is congruent with the Infinite Banking strategies we employ. The Number One Question to Start In order to start your journey, the best way to start is to ask yourself this one question: “Do I have a spouse, children, future children, or a family that I care about deeply, and that would be impacted financially if something happened to me tomorrow?” When you ask yourself this question, you want to rate how true it is for you on a scale of 1-5, with 1 meaning it’s not true at all and 5 being completely true. You can rate yourself for each of these categories, too (spouse, children, etc.). This one question will help you to determine how ready you are to start the estate planning process. While you’re thinking about this, give yourself time to put some significant thought into how your loved ones would or would not be impacted. Would your spouse have to get a new or second job if you died? Could your family remain in the home? Do you have aging parents that you expect to be responsible for? How will your children’s needs change over time? Doing this self-diagno

Mar 18, 202418 min

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 25: Uninsurability Hacks

Do you want to use Infinite Banking, but you're uninsurable? Today we are discussing uninsurability hacks! Don't worry, uninsurability ISN'T a game-stopper for using Infinite Banking to build your own banking system. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iklRiFBTZRo That means you can still reap the exponential reward of dividends and interest that grow with uninterrupted compounding, store liquid cash reserves that can serve as guaranteed collateral throughout your lifetime, even while it continues growing, and provide a death benefit that is the most efficient estate transfer tool ... ... even if you're not personally eligible for a life insurance policy due to health concerns. Today, we're nearing the end of our tour through Nelson Nash's book, Becoming Your Own Banker to show why Infinite Banking is, in fact, an opportunity available to just about everyone. Unlock the secrets to financial empowerment, even when the odds seem stacked against you due to uninsurability, with our latest Money Advantage Podcast episode. Rachel Marshall and Bruce Wehner delve into the heart of infinite banking for those carrying the weight of health conditions or lifestyles that insurance companies typically shy away from. We tear down the barriers and bust the myths that may have left you feeling excluded from the world of life insurance, revealing a silver lining for anyone eager to take control of their financial destiny. Join us as we navigate the often misunderstood landscape of life insurance ratings, breaking down how your personal health and lifestyle choices don't have to deter you from securing a policy that benefits your financial plans. From understanding the nuances of mortality rates during unprecedented times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, to the ins and outs of insurance contracts, this episode is packed with expert insights that will reshape your perception of life insurance's role in your financial strategy. Whether you're facing personal insurability hurdles or you're searching for ways to cement a legacy for future generations, we provide actionable strategies and a dose of inspiration. Explore how insuring a family member can open the doors to the infinite banking concept, and how even those with health concerns can potentially find viable paths to insurability. We also touch on the potential of life insurance in generating passive income and serving as capital for investment opportunities. How to Be Insurable Should You Apply with a Health Condition?Life Insurance RatingsWhat Does it Mean to Increase the Cost of Insurance?Uninsurability Hacks and Insurable InterestBook A Strategy Call How to Be Insurable If you want whole life insurance, you’ve got to qualify for a policy first. This means that the insurance company views you as an acceptable risk to take on. Since whole life insurance is permanent, companies must do their due diligence to guarantee that they can pay the claims they are responsible for. In other words, they can’t insure everybody, or they wouldn’t have the money to pay death benefits. So, to gauge your personal insurance risk, companies require an application. Part of this application is a health exam. Life insurance companies employ people called actuaries, who are capable of extremely precise life expectancy math, based on certain health variables. A health exam helps to tell these actuaries whether you fall within an acceptable risk margin, and how much it would then cost to insure you if you do. For example, someone with good health who smokes cigarettes may qualify for insurance, however their cost of insurance will increase slightly, since smoking creates a higher risk for certain issues later in life. It may all sound a bit morbid, however, this practice allows insurance companies to be extremely capable financially (which is something you want in an insurance company). By insuring people who are likely to live long lives, they can collect the necessary premium to fund the death benefits of those who may pass away well before their time, as well as those who live to a ripe old age. So, if you do have a policy, you can be confident in your company’s financials. Should You Apply with a Health Condition? If you have a pre-existing health condition, you may be tempted to quit before you’ve even tried. However, we’d like to emphasize that you shouldn’t be deterred from applying, regardless of how you view your own health and habits. While there are certainly some disqualifying illnesses off the bat, like a terminal diagnosis, insurance companies want to work with you if possible. Sometimes, a health condition merely requires a few more steps—like certain tests or treatment—or it just costs a bit more. And in reality, it’s much more beneficial to you and your family’s wealth to pay a bit more for a life insurance policy than to not have one at all. We knew someone with a heart condition who had concerns about applying for a policy, but when h

Mar 11, 20241h 13m

How to Protect Your Lifestyle with Insurance – Meaghan Dowd

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zMyR7l2elg Insurance may often seem like an enigma, a complex puzzle that's challenging to decipher. You're not alone in feeling this way. However, understanding insurance isn't just a necessity; it's the foundation for securing your financial future. Learn how to protect your lifestyle with insurance. In our most recent podcast episode, we were delighted to have Meaghan Dowd as our guest. Meaghan is an expert in property and casualty insurance, and her knowledge about asset protection is truly transformative. She unraveled the intricacies of insurance policies and offered strategies to ensure that your coverage is as robust as your ambitions. How to Protect Your Lifestyle with InsuranceWhy Insurance is More Than Just a Legal RequirementUnderstanding Your Insurance PolicyUmbrella Coverage: Not an Option, But a NecessityThe Choice Between Captive Agents and Independent BrokersInsights from Meaghan Dowd's Book: "Protect Your Lifestyle"The Road to Financial SecurityConclusion: Secure Your Wealth How to Protect Your Lifestyle with Insurance If you've ever found yourself navigating the intricate labyrinth of insurance policies, you'll understand how daunting it can be. Whether you're trying to comprehend the difference between captive agents and independent brokers or attempting to decipher the meaning behind the terms in your homeowner's insurance policy, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But, have you ever considered that understanding these details could be your ticket to securing your financial future? We've decided to share some key takeaways from our chat and hopefully illuminate the path to financial security through insurance. Why Insurance is More Than Just a Legal Requirement Insurance is often viewed as a legal requirement, something you must have to avoid penalties or lawsuits. However, this is just scratching the surface of what insurance truly represents. Property and casualty insurance, as Meaghan pointed out, are not just legal requirements but cornerstones of a resilient financial foundation. Understanding Your Insurance Policy Meaghan Dowd emphasized the importance of understanding the intricate details of your insurance policies. From homeowner's coverage to umbrella policies, comprehending what each one covers ensures you're fully equipped to face life's unexpected turns. She also shared her transformational journey in the insurance industry and emphasized how education and proper coverage can make a profound difference in safeguarding your wealth. Umbrella Coverage: Not an Option, But a Necessity One of the standout points from our conversation was the importance of umbrella coverage. This type of insurance isn't just an option; it's a necessity for both personal and business liabilities. Meaghan explained how understanding the details of your policy could prevent the financial fallout of an uncovered claim. The Choice Between Captive Agents and Independent Brokers Choosing the right insurance representation for your specific needs is a crucial decision that shouldn't be taken lightly. Meaghan highlighted the strategic differences between working with captive agents versus independent brokers. Understanding these differences can lead to more tailored coverage for your unique needs. Insights from Meaghan Dowd's Book: "Protect Your Lifestyle" Our conversation also delved into Meaghan's book, "Protect Your Lifestyle," where she empowers readers to make informed insurance decisions. The insights from her book provide invaluable resources for anyone from recent graduates to seasoned professionals. She shared the importance of being proactive with property and casualty insurance, understanding umbrella coverage, and choosing the right insurance representation. The Road to Financial Security Don't miss the opportunity to empower your financial future with smart insurance choices. The insights Meaghan Dowd shared in our conversation could transform confusion into clarity and help you approach insurance with newfound confidence. Conclusion: Secure Your Wealth Remember, protecting your wealth isn't just about accumulating more – it's about shielding what you already have from life's surprises. Insurance isn't just about what happens on your property – it's about protecting your lifestyle choices that have financial implications. By comprehending the complexities of insurance policies and coverage options, you can unlock the power of insurance to secure your financial future. The insights shared in this article, along with the wisdom from our podcast episode, will surely guide you on your journey to financial security. So, are you ready to take control of your financial situation and protect your wealth? If you still have questions or need further guidance, don't hesitate to book a call with me. Together, we can mas

Mar 4, 202449 min

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 24: Real College Advice

Should you go to college? Should you send your kids to college? Will they earn more with a college degree? Will the degree provide a better financial future? What is the rate of return on a college degree? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sPZM49y8his Unlock the secrets to a financially savvy future as we dissect the age-old belief that college is the golden ticket to success. Prepare to have your perspective shifted with eye-opening discussions on the financial value of higher education, examining the return on investment through the lens of Nelson Nash's "Becoming Your Own Banker." From the societal push towards university halls to the sobering reality of student debt, we navigate the complexities of college funding strategies and the potential of alternative education paths that could lead to prosperity without a diploma in hand. Challenge the status quo with us as we scrutinize the necessity of degrees in today's career landscape, where sometimes certifications can trump years spent in academic pursuit. We share personal tales and data-driven insights that question whether the conventional college experience truly measures up against the backdrop of rising tuition costs and the changing demands of the workforce. Our discussion extends beyond the classroom, highlighting the intrinsic value of continuous learning and the mastery of financial principles that can shape your life's trajectory. Concluding our series, we pivot to practical financial wisdom, contrasting traditional college savings plans with the innovative approach of investing in dividend-paying whole life insurance policies. Through the Infinite Banking Concept, we reveal how this strategy could offer a more advantageous financial outcome, potentially outpacing the gains of a college-funded future. If you're contemplating educational paths or seeking ways to maximize your financial legacy, this episode is an essential guide to charting a course toward true financial enlightenment and independence. So if you want to be able to get real college advice so you can better navigate the college decision and set your kids up for lifetime success, tune in today! Is College Worth It?The Cost of EducationThe Power of Understanding BusinessReal College Advice: Whole Life Insurance or Tuition?Further Resources: Book A Strategy Call Is College Worth It? [05:42] “Nelson believed that people need to think. He thinks that’s one of the biggest problems Americans have, [that they] have changed into, almost like lemmings, where they have just been taught not to think.” Due to Nelson’s skepticism about the education system, he questions whether college is necessary for young people to be productive, successful, and wealthy. After all, if school isn’t teaching people to think, what is it teaching? Of course, there are naturally exceptions to this. You don’t want a doctor who hasn’t trained extensively, nor do you want a lawyer who doesn’t know the law, or a scientist who doesn’t understand the scientific process. In these cases, school is integral. However, the world is becoming increasingly entrepreneurial, which doesn’t take a degree, as much as it takes critical thinking and people skills. Even jobs like coding and programming can be learned in short-term courses, as opposed to a college environment. This isn’t to say that college isn’t a worthwhile endeavor. However, it is an expensive one and a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. There is truth to the statement that your earning power is statistically higher if you have a college degree. However, there is also tremendous debt, that may not be necessary depending on what you want to accomplish in this life. The Cost of Education In the 80s, when Bruce went to Truman State University, the total cost of room, board, and tuition was $1995. And when he graduated and went into teaching, he was making about $19,000. That’s essentially a 10:1 ratio. On the other hand, Bruce’s nephew applied to the same university in 2015, and the cost was $17,795. And while that was a good deal compared to other schools, the inflation is undeniable. And if he wanted to be a teacher, his income would have to be $179,000 to achieve the same ratio. That salary is simply not realistic for a teacher. At the time of writing this, the average college tuition is $36,436 per student, per year. This cost is inclusive of books, supplies, and daily living costs. However, the total cost of college will change depending on other factors, like how many years you attend, whether you go to a private or public institution, scholarships and grants, and even whether you go in-state or out-of-state. However, this average gives you a good baseline to start figuring it out. The Power of Understanding Business Regardless of the path you choose, it’s important to have a good understanding of the business of banking. We want to shift focus from the value of a degree to the value of learning, and learning can be done at any ag

Feb 26, 20241h 4m

Discover Wealth Across Borders -Michael Cobb

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o6GUHRsyCEE It is time to discover wealth across borders. Have you ever wondered what it's like to invest internationally, live as an expat, or find a balance between work and play while enjoying life abroad? In a fascinating episode of our podcast, we sat down with Michael Cobb, a renowned figure in residential resort development and global finance, to dive into these very topics. His unique insights and personal experiences offer listeners a roadmap to a richer life experience that transcends geographic and financial boundaries. Discover Wealth Across Borders - International DiversificationA Legacy of Sustainable ImpactThe Time Machine of Emerging MarketsA Haven for Health-Conscious ExpatsLifestyle Choices and Legacy InvestmentsFinding Balance and Embracing JoyBook A Strategy Call Discover Wealth Across Borders - International Diversification The concept of international diversification isn't new, but few have mastered the art quite like Michael Cobb. In our conversation, Michael shares his wisdom on why considering a small portion of one's portfolio for international investment is not only a financial strategy but also a pathway to expansive thinking and adventure. With his extensive background in creating communities across Central America and living the expat life, Michael embodies the spirit of exploration and risk-taking that is crucial for global investors. A Legacy of Sustainable Impact During the episode, Michael delves into the significance of purpose-driven work. His passion for building sustainable businesses that support economic growth in Central America is both inspiring and thought-provoking. The moving narrative about the transformative power of education he shared illustrates how individual upliftment can lead to generational change. It is a powerful reminder that our professional pursuits should aim for a positive and enduring impact. The Time Machine of Emerging Markets Investing in emerging markets is likened to a time machine, allowing savvy investors to capitalize on growth trajectories reminiscent of past opportunities in now-developed economies. Michael's expertise in distinguishing lifestyle choices from investment decisions shines a light on the critical nature of separating emotions from analytics. The nuances of investing in areas like Nicaragua and Belize offer a buffet of options for those looking to step into the investment landscape with an informed perspective. A Haven for Health-Conscious Expats One of the most innovative aspects discussed in the episode is the creation of a low electromagnetic frequency (EMF) community in Nicaragua. As concerns about the health impacts of 5G and other EMF sources grow, Michael's work in developing ISLA, a planned community with exceptionally low EMF levels, offers a unique living solution. The thoughtful design of the homes and the communal values shared among residents make this a standout investment and lifestyle opportunity. Lifestyle Choices and Legacy Investments Latin America presents a diverse array of living environments that cater to different expat and investor preferences. Michael touches on the cost-of-living reductions achievable in these regions and the allure of various settings, from vibrant cities to tranquil colonial towns. Additionally, the concept of legacy investments, such as teak plantations, offers listeners insight into how they can secure long-term financial returns and create generational wealth. Finding Balance and Embracing Joy As the episode concludes, we reflect on the joy Michael finds in slacklining and the importance of hobbies that rekindle our zest for life. It is a beautiful illustration of the balance we all strive for – to lead a passionate and profitable life wherever we may choose to call home. To discover wealth across borders go to https://ecidevelopment.com/ Book A Strategy Call Do you want to coordinate your finances so that everything works together to improve your life today, accelerate time and money freedom, and leave the greatest legacy? We can help! Book an Introductory Call with our team today https://themoneyadvantage.com/calendar/, and find out how Privatized Banking, alternative investments, or cash flow strategies can help you accomplish your goals better and faster. That being said, if you want to find out more about how Privatized Banking gives you the most safety, liquidity, and growth… plus boosts your investment returns, and guarantees a legacy, go to https://privatizedbankingsecrets.com/freeguide to learn more.

Feb 19, 202452 min

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 23: Practical Wisdom for Perpetual Wealth

Do you want perpetual wealth that continues growing in future generations? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqCY1qB8Lys Today, we're continuing this power-packed series through Nelson Nash's famed book, Becoming Your Own Banker, as we discuss the benefits of buying life insurance for your grandchildren. So if you want to see how thinking generationally is a long-term target on wealth that gives you the advantage so you can build more, how to transfer a wealth mindset to your kids and grandkids, and how to ensure wealth grows continuously ... tune in now! Forestry Management and Infinite BankingBuilding a Long-Term System for Perpetual WealthGood Stewardship and Perpetual WealthBook A Strategy Call Forestry Management and Infinite Banking In Becoming Your Own Banker, Nelson Nash compares the banking function of whole life insurance to forestry management. Both are long-term processes that bear fruit for generations to come when you manage them properly. He expands on this by explaining how forestry works. If you want trees on a 40-year growth cycle, you have to divide your land into 40 even plots of 100 acres each. Every year, you’ll harvest whatever is on one 100-acre parcel of land, and replant it. That way, in 40 years, when you’ve harvested every parcel of land, you’ll be ready to harvest the very first plot all over again. You’re creating a sustainable, perpetual source of lumber, and therefore income. There are also some intermediate cuttings over the years to allow the strong trees better growth. This can be likened to whole life insurance, where you’re “planting” an annual premium while you’re also growing your cash value each year. Every year it’s able to grow uninterrupted, and you can pass it on for generations. And the more it grows, the more you can use it to purchase new investments, assets, and other quality-of-life improvements. It’s a long-term, lifelong process with major benefits if you’re willing to see it through and be diligent about it. Building a Long-Term System for Perpetual Wealth Whole life insurance is the preferred asset to execute the banking function because it’s long-term and has many guarantees. The policy loan function allows you to replenish your wealth, much like replanting your forest, while the death benefit provides the seed to the next generation. The reason term insurance can’t work is twofold: first, it isn’t permanent. Term insurance only stays in place for a set term of your life. Because of this, there is no cash value component, which is the second reason you cannot use term for the banking function. The cash value component of whole life insurance is like the equity of the death benefit. It’s a benefit to policyholders for placing so much money (and trust) with the insurance company. Since the death benefit is not guaranteed if you have term insurance, you can’t really build equity in it. This doesn’t mean that there’s no place for term insurance in your banking system. Many people choose to have convertible term insurance to supplement their whole life insurance policy. This guarantees that over some time, you can convert some of your temporary insurance into permanent insurance, without having to re-qualify. Even those who do not choose to convert the insurance may feel a sense of peace at having a little extra death benefit during certain periods of their life, like when their children are young. All of these decisions hinge on one thing: long-term planning and your ability to act for your future self. You cannot predict what will happen to you or your loved ones, however, you can prepare to be capable of overcoming whatever life throws at you. Customizing your banking system allows you to prepare for many outcomes. Good Stewardship and Perpetual Wealth Just like with forestry, Infinite Banking requires good stewardship. If you don’t take measures to protect and maintain your forest plots, you run the risk of fires, poor yields, and more. If you don’t take measures to properly fund your policy and repay loans, you run the risk of having your policy lapse, or your cash value shrinking to cover your loans. The way that you operate your banking system also includes actions such as how you invest and use your capital, and how you teach your family to be good stewards of their money, too. These efforts help to ensure that you’re in a position to control capital now and that your children and their children can also be in a position to control capital. “A good person leaves an inheritance for their children's children…” Proverbs 13:22 [55:48] “I love that principle and that idea of recognizing that we have a calling, a responsibility, an exciting adventure to… live our life in a way that we are able to leave an inheritance. And that has been such a compelling call to myself and to my husband that we have written a book that is all about that.” [56:56] “We need to be paying attention to our financial decisions. Everything that you place attention on h

Feb 12, 20241h 0m

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 22: Get a Higher Rate of Return

Are you looking for a higher rate of return? If so, your quest may point you to an important secret as you make financial decisions. Most people want to get the highest rate of return on their investment dollars .... which is why whole life insurance can be such a turn-off. It seems like a wimpy competitor in the rate of return game. https://www.youtube.com/live/Hu1qEPn9Wc8 But in his groundbreaking book, Becoming Your Own Banker, Nelson Nash addresses this question head-on, which is why we will too. In today's discussion, Bruce and I will take an honest look at the rate of return, why it's not as simple as comparing dividend rates or interest rates, and how Infinite Banking actually increases your rate of return. Today, we challenge the conventional wisdom that focuses solely on the rate of return. We delve into the often-overlooked elements of personal finance, such as taxes, volatility, cash flow, and the unique benefits of a life insurance policy. This episode isn't just a numbers game; it's a revelation of the multifaceted advantages of incorporating whole life insurance into your personal economy. It's time to zoom out and consider the entire financial landscape. We're guided by Nelson Nash's philosophy, which teaches us that every financial action – from spending to saving – is interconnected. Bruce and I explore how leveraging cash value can serve as a buffer against market volatility, enhancing your financial resilience. If you've been fixated on isolated investment returns, let this be the wake-up call that steers you towards a more holistic and strategic approach to building wealth. Understanding the fine print of life insurance policies can be akin to learning a new language, but we're here to translate. We unravel the intricacies of policy loans, PUA payments, and the latest regulatory changes impacting your Infinite Banking policy. This crucial conversation is tailored for those yearning to fine-tune their financial strategies and those curious about how behavior significantly influences financial growth. Tune in for a masterclass on optimizing your financial trajectory, and remember, if you're seeking personal guidance, a deeper conversation is just a consultation away. ”Interest Rates Don’t Matter”Everyone is Seeking a Higher Rate of ReturnHow Are You Financing?Life Insurance Allows You to Do MoreBook A Strategy Call ”Interest Rates Don’t Matter” Interest rates don’t matter. Or, at least, they don’t matter in the ways that most people seem to think. The reality is that not all rates are created equal because they have their own sets of circumstances. Think of how many people choose to buy a more expensive car simply to get the 0% financing. Yet, what’s more important? The interest rate that you pay, or the total monthly payment? When people prioritize interest rates, they often end up paying more per month for a more costly car. Reducing the monthly payment, even at the expense of a higher interest rate, can give you more monthly cash flow that could potentially be put to better use elsewhere, such as paying an insurance premium. Consider, too, how this impacts rates of return. If you had to choose between a 7% rate of return on your 401k or a 7% rate of return on your Roth IRA, which would you choose? Or does it even matter? You might be tempted to say that it doesn’t matter, and yet, when it comes time to distribute your funds, you’ll have to pay taxes on the 401k, but not on the Roth IRA. With that in mind, does it matter what you choose? In this case, interest rates don’t really matter. In fact, knowing what you know, you might even choose to take a lower rate of return in the Roth IRA simply because you’ll fare better in the long run when it’s time to distribute. When we say interest rates don't matter, what we really mean is that they are not the beginning and end of a good financial decision. There’s information in between that lends context to the interest rates. A higher or lower interest rate is not automatically good or bad. And often, that line of thinking leads you to make choices that don’t keep the bigger picture in mind. Everyone is Seeking a Higher Rate of Return [12:18] “Looking at your personal economy or your business economy in one silo doesn’t maximize what you’re trying to accomplish.” If you want to do the most with your money, it seems only logical that you would seek the highest rate of return possible in all things. However, this can be counterintuitive to your overall goals. One reason this could happen is because high rates of return often come from riskier assets—and you don’t want to invite too much risk into your portfolio. If you do, you want to balance it with assets that have more guarantees and more certainty, like life insurance. That way, you don’t lose everything in a bad market. In this way, seeking high rates of return on all assets is not the most helpful solution to maximize your money. Sometime

Feb 4, 20241h 11m

Surviving the Storm: Navigating War in Israel with Rabbi Lapin

When war across the world could mean war close to home or a whole world war … when conflicts thousands of years old can’t be solved overnight … when truth seems defined by who’s in power … when totalitarianism seems stronger than freedom and free markets … when open borders looked like compassion but instead weaken us from the inside … when economic prosperity and security look like myths … how do you thrive anyway? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KD__jKjby4o Back by popular demand and having just returned from Jerusalem during the October 7th terrorist attack, Rabbi Daniel Lapin joins us to confront today’s challenges with ancient wisdom tirelessly relevant to the turmoil of today. Gaining Perspective and Questioning MisinformationWhat this Conflict is NotHow Do We Thrive Amid Crisis and Chaos?Book A Strategy Call Gaining Perspective and Questioning Misinformation It’s always a pleasure to have Rabbi Lapin join us in conversation and this time he’s lending his personal experience on a particularly timely topic: the Israel-Palestine conflict. While Rabbi Lapin is back stateside, he was in Jerusalem at the time of the attacks and has particular insights on how to thrive in times of turmoil. Typically, the Rabbi goes to Jerusalem while working on a new book or writing project. He and his wife typically spend between 4 and 6 weeks in Jerusalem each year, which they’ve been doing for many years. [05:01] “I just find that writing is very, it’s very inspirational. It’s the only place I know where you can go and open your laptop in a coffee shop and before very long you’re going to be embroiled in deep philosophical discussions with people at the adjoining tables… It’s like a family.” It was at a Tabernacle retreat that Lapin was hosting when they heard sirens go off, and his group made their way to the air-raid shelters. Rabbi Lapin himself found it difficult to make sense of the situation until a missile hit the iron dome, which he describes as “earth-shaking.” The next day, he experienced a Jerusalem he had never seen. [09:10] “This sort of takes me back to Jerusalem pre ‘67 when I was a kid at Bible school in Jerusalem. Back in those days, before the ‘67 war, [the city] was very small, dark-ish, dismal.” In the wake of the attack, Rabbi Lapin and his wife decided that staying in Israel was the best thing they could do at the time. While they never had concerns about getting home, they felt that by staying they could better contribute to the good. What this Conflict is Not While the conflict is a complicated one to unpack, Rabbi Lapin makes something clear—it is not a conflict over land disputes. If it were simply a land conflict, that could be resolved by bureaucracy. He emphasizes that a two-state solution has been offered many times and declined. What is happening is that, unlike Christianity and Judaism, Islam does not have room in its doctrine for other religions to exist. [14:44] “Starting in the 7th century, Mohammed started spreading the faith, and he used the sword. The choice was simple: become a Muslim or die. Now, you know, there was obviously a period where Catholicism was spread [by] the Crusades, [and] the desire was to free the Holy Land from the Infidel… but in general, certainly you could say that for the last 700 years, nobody ever pointed a gun at your head and said, ‘Become a Christian or become a Jew.’ But that’s not true for Islam.” [15:32] “One of the casualties of secularism, one of the casualties of abolishing a God-centric worldview, is a contracting of your window of time until you reach the ultimate of secular hedonism, which is: ‘Only today matters.’” How Do We Thrive Amid Crisis and Chaos? 4 This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those I carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: 5 “Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. 6 Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease. 7 Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” Jeremiah 29: 4-7 Amid all this chaos and turbulence that Jeremiah was experiencing in Biblical times, he assured people to keep living and prospering. This is a profound call to entrepreneurs and other producers to thrive in the face of crisis. Trust in God to bring abundance by partaking in the activities of an abundant life. [46:37] “A declining population and an aging population is a huge problem.” [50:03] “My point is that using these principles of ancient Jewish wisdom, my folks have been making good money in bad times as in good times. And they’ve been doing that in tyrannical regimes like the Soviet Union, just as they have been doing it in wonderful and hospitable countries, like the United States.” [53:49] “In order to flourish financially, your head’s g

Jan 29, 202459 min

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 21: Cost of Acquisition

Financing costs are much more than just interest rates. First, there is the time required to obtain the financing, and then, often numerous steps to qualify and negotiate. This financing is very expensive when you account for the number of executives whose time is required for the endeavor. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-MmWlkTQsWE Infinite Banking overcomes this cost of acquisition, allowing you to obtain financing quickly and make timely decisions. In this episode, you'll recognize that time is more expensive than money as we dissect the true cost of acquisition in both personal and corporate finances. We'll help you understand that every minute and mental whack we spend on acquiring capital has a significant cost, which often goes unnoticed. Together, we'll draw wisdom from Nelson Nash's "Becoming Your Own Banker," reminding us of the importance of seeking reliable information and being confident in understanding financial concepts. In a world that's always changing, waiting too long can cost you. That's why we're bringing you the Infinite Banking Concept, freeing you from the shackles of loan qualification and liberating your mind to focus on life's bigger decisions. We'll show you how to align your actions with your values and run your life like a small business, emphasizing the fundamental role of finance and whole life insurance policies. Tune in today as we continue our journey through Nelson Nash‘s book, Becoming Your Own Banker, to reveal yet another often invisible, yet powerful advantage of Infinite Banking. Cost of Capital vs. Cost of AcquisitionFinancing Takes TimeWhat Can You Do with Your Time? Book A Strategy Call Cost of Capital vs. Cost of Acquisition We often talk about the cost of capital in discussions of Infinite Banking. After all, there’s an interest cost to all of your financial decisions, simply because if you’re not paying interest, you’re passing up the ability to earn interest. The cost of acquisition is just a little bit different, yet it’s just as important in discussions of wealth-building. Simply put, the cost of acquisition is the cost of your time, expertise, and skills. What is it costing you in non-tangible assets to acquire/do something? If you’re jeopardizing your non-material assets in pursuit of savings or a deal, is it really worth that cost? This is an especially prudent question when you consider how much time you’re going to spend doing something, versus how else that time could be spent. You can also apply this idea to spending. Say you’re committed to finding the cheapest gas to fill your car with. In doing so, you’re successful, but you spend 30 minutes or more driving around to find it, and deplete your tank further than if you had just stopped at one of the first places you saw. This takes time and mental energy, and what do you really save? There is a cost of time and energy here that doesn’t necessarily make the savings worth it. When it comes to wealth, you have to think about the big picture. Time is money, and you just consider this in your financial decisions, too. Financing Takes Time Financing takes time, but time is money. That’s the lesson here. Consider you’re seeking to finance a major purchase, like a car. You have an Infinite Banking policy, but you hear that the bank can do half a point better. So, you decide to speak with a lender and jump through their hoops. This can take days and time and effort, which keeps you away from your regular routine. You’ve got to prove that you can repay the loan, supply paperwork, and more. In the end, your payment isn’t much different than if you had simply financed through your whole life insurance policy, with no hoops to jump through, and maybe you could have put that additional time towards a more lucrative business decision. In some cases, maybe the bank financing would still be worth the time. The loan may be several points better, and you feel that this will save you significantly on your monthly payments in the long run. The beauty of Infinite Banking is that you have options. You can choose to finance the purchase yourself, or through a bank. And if you choose to finance yourself, you can save time. So even though, from a purely economic standpoint, you’re better off paying a lower interest rate, there is still a cost to spending your time in pursuit of that loan. It’s up to you to determine whether that cost serves the bigger picture or not. [15:15] “The advantage of having cash value accessible and usable is that you absolutely qualify to get a loan against your cash value just because you are a policyholder, and that is a right of being a policyholder. And because you have that quick guarantee, your time is freed up to do so many other things.” What Can You Do with Your Time? Time is an incredibly valuable resource, as entrepreneurs know. While entrepreneurship is in many ways about breaking free from the “trading time for money” model of emp

Jan 22, 202453 min

Marshall Family Banking System, Pt. 4

Want to see the real-time historical performance of the Infinite Banking Concept? Usually, when you hear about policy performance, it's from looking at illustrations. But illustrations aren't "performance," they are projections of future growth, based on current dividends and interest. That's why we love getting the opportunity to share the actual historical performance of Infinite Banking policies, and our philosophy and vision for building our family banking system with multiple policies. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C39wi4O3838 Today, we're discussing the actual capitalization, growth, dividends, cash values, and death benefit of our Family Bank. Our conversation shifts to the personal legacy we're crafting through our family banking system, a journey that began 11 years ago with our first whole life insurance policy. We recount the pivotal decisions that shaped our financial foundation, such as transitioning our assets from precious metals to a more liquid form. We delve into the significance of long-term planning and how our present actions are intended to bless generations to come. Engage with us and consider how you might shape your own infinite banking story. Lastly, we explore the strategic intricacies of life insurance policies, emphasizing the importance of designing a policy to allow for as large of premiums for as long as possible. Prior Episodes In This SeriesStructure of the Family Banking SystemDividends on the Annual StatementNew IllustrationsThe Difference in a YearBook A Strategy Call Prior Episodes In This Series Part 1 Mar 2022: Why We Started a New Life Insurance Policy Part 2 Oct 2022: Adding a Second Whole Life Policy Part 3 Feb 2023: Capitalization Phase - End Of Year Update Structure of the Family Banking System In this episode, we take a look at the annual statements for our family banking policies, and the components to be aware of. It’s important to us that we share what we’re doing with our family so that you can see proof of the Infinite Banking Concept in action. In the first policy (listen or watch the full episode to get the details on our 2nd policy as well) we examine, our total premium is $20,000. However, you can break down that premium and see that there are several components at “work” in our premium. The base premium is the minimum amount of premium that must be paid every year to keep the policy current. This is actually only a little more than $7,000. The rest of the 20k premium is composed of Paid Up Additions (PUA) and other riders. One such rider is called “waiver of premium.” This rider can only be applied to the base premium, and it protects the policy owner from paying premiums in the event of a disability that prevents working. There is also a term insurance rider on the policy, with its own waiver of premium rider. The term insurance rider lasts for 30 years, and the corresponding death benefit will drop off after that term unless it’s converted to additional life insurance. This conversion option allows us to keep that death benefit if we wish, and build additional cash value after it’s converted to whole life insurance. This is a great way to maximize your death benefit when you’re starting out. Dividends on the Annual Statement On our annual summary, you can also see the total accumulated dividend we earned for the year and how it was applied. The line items can get a bit confusing, as it moves between dividends and additional death benefit, but for the year our total dividend was $4,233.15. A large portion of this came from the base policy, while a more significant portion of this came from various PUAs. Our “lifetime” total for dividends earned since 2021 is $7,800.48. So in one year, we earned more dividends than the previous year. This is a testament to the power of compounding interest. In this section, you can see that the PUAs are also adding about $2 of death benefit for every dollar of premium. If someone in their 20s were to look at their annual statement, they might get $4 of death benefit for every dollar of premium. This is simply because the cost of insurance increases over time. The sooner you begin a policy, the sooner you can lock in your current insurability. New Illustrations When you get your annual statement, you also receive a revised illustration. This is like a snapshot in time—it’s going to give you a solid idea of what to expect for the next year, and a very general idea of what will happen over the lifetime of the policy. This is because the illustration assumes the same declared dividend for every year, yet dividends change from year to year. There are also likely to be discrepancies in the illustration vs. reality (though typically minor, and sometimes greater than what’s illustrated). Once the dividend is applied, all future projections change. In other words, while your illustration gives you a solid picture of your policy’s trajectory, don’t put too much stock in the exact numbers. The

Jan 15, 202446 min

Family Summit End-of-Year Strategies: Planning for Multigenerational Success

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LdKhSP9HubE There's a saying that "family isn't just important, it's everything." This rings true for my family, the Marshalls, who are committed to creating an enduring legacy that will reach beyond our generation. On a recent episode of our podcast, we gave listeners an intimate look into our yearly tradition - the Marshall Family Summit. Joined by our special guest and daughter, Avalynn, we shared how reflection, goal-setting, and intentionality play crucial roles in shaping our multigenerational legacy. Table of ContentsThe Art of Reflection and Planning for the Future - A Family SummitOur Celebration of Family Milestones and Personal GrowthStriking a Balance Between Meticulous Planning and Nurturing RelationshipsReflecting on Key Experiences That Shaped Our YearAn Invitation to You: Cultivate Your Family's LegacyImplement Your Family Summit: Take Inspiration from Our ApproachWant Help Creating a Multigenerational Legacy Of More Than Money? The Art of Reflection and Planning for the Future - A Family Summit Our family summit isn't just a retrospective on the past year but also a strategic planning session for the year ahead. We took inspiration from Dan Sullivan's Strategic Coach and stressed the importance of reflecting on past successes to fuel future aspirations. We revealed how this practice has evolved into a powerful tool for setting clear, achievable goals for the future. Digging deeper into the details of the summit, you'll find that it's a well-thought-out process. It begins with us coming together as a family to review the past year. Each of us shares our achievements, challenges, and personal growth. These reflections lay the groundwork for our future plans. We then collaboratively set goals for the next year, ensuring everyone is on the same page and committed to their realization. This balance of reflection and proactive planning is critical to the success of our annual summit and the continuous growth of our legacy. Our Celebration of Family Milestones and Personal Growth Reviewing the past year, we highlight moments that have strengthened our family bonds, both losses and wins. From the joyous event of welcoming our newest family member, our first son Eli, to personal victories like publishing our book Seven Generations Legacy, we discuss our individual and collective growth. Our conversation then transitions to our travel plans, financial decisions, and financial planning for the year ahead. We then review our family guidance system, encompassing our ideals, shared values, and mission and vision statement. This system, we explain, forms the basis of our daily, weekly, and annual routines. It ensures that our actions and decisions align with our long-term vision for our family. From the smallest daily choices to significant life events, the guidance system provides a roadmap to guide our journey. This system and our annual reflection and planning summit are powerful strategies for sustained family growth and legacy building. Striking a Balance Between Meticulous Planning and Nurturing Relationships One critical insight from the episode is the delicate balance between detailed planning and maintaining healthy relationships. Rather than being a trade-off, we found that our in-depth planning enhanced our relationships with others. We shared our experience hosting a weekly community group in our home and how these moments are intertwined with our larger goals. This approach shows that structure and meaningful interactions can not only coexist but also strengthen each other, leading to more prosperous relationships and a stronger sense of community. Reflecting on Key Experiences That Shaped Our Year Looking back at the past year, we reflected on six experiences that made a significant impact. These range from the birth of our son to our intentional approach to home decor, each echoing our family's values and spiritual growth. We also celebrated the success of our book 'Seven Generations Legacy' reaching bestseller status in seven categories on Amazon and inviting others into our home where we craft unforgettable experiences for our family and others. Each of these experiences embodies the unique blend of personal growth, family values, and intentional living that underpins our journey. They serve as tangible examples of the legacy we're building, offering inspiration for other families aiming to do the same. An Invitation to You: Cultivate Your Family's Legacy We extend an invitation to you to join us in our journey of intentional planning. We encourage you to set goals and plan with purpose, involving every family member (if old enough) in the process. This helps shape a powerful legacy and instills a sense of stewardship in the younger generation. Our Marshall Family Summit weaves tradition, strategic planning, and heartfelt family stories. It inspires anyone looking to build a legacy t

Jan 8, 202432 min

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 20: How to Live on Purpose

Are you unhappy with your job because you want more fulfillment and meaning out of life? Most people think retirement is the answer. But rather than delivering on its promises, retirement is a trap. Instead, you must learn to live on purpose. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1IxQgBIPn8 Prepare to unearth the secrets of living a life of purpose and financial independence with insights from Nelson Nash's Infinite Banking Concept detailed in his trailblazing book 'Becoming Your Own Banker'. This episode promises a powerful discourse on how taxation, government programs, and exceptions are sculpting a potential financial crisis for Americans. Brace yourself as we expose the ramifications of the government's soaring borrowing and spending, pointing towards a possible great reset, and how deferring taxes could be your road to financial doom. Post World War II, the landscape of unions, benefits, and pensions drastically transformed, but did it serve or undermine the individual worker? Let's journey together through this significant period, shedding light on how governmental control and the taxation system have eroded individual autonomy. Discover how liberating decision-making from the clutches of the government can propel societal growth and well-being. Finally, let's delve into the work of Edward Deming on the 'constancy of purpose' and the adoption of a new philosophy. We'll stir your thought process by discussing the necessity of demolishing barriers, ousting fear, and nurturing a culture of innovation. We'll also touch upon Nash's 14 points of quality and his seven deadly sins. So gear up to seize control of your life, money, and future - the journey might be arduous, but the reward is an empowered life, filled with purpose and growth. In the end, the choice to shape your financial life is in your hands - will you emulate the successful few or follow the multitude? Listen in to find out how. Join us to get a fresh perspective on living with purpose and succeeding in improving the quality of your finances. Relinquishing ControlHow Do Taxes Work?Control Your Livelihood and PurposeLeadership and OwnershipLearn from OthersTake ActionLive on PurposeBook A Strategy Call Relinquishing Control [02:08] “[Nelson] says when government creates a problem—onerous taxation—and then turns around and creates an exception to the problem they created—tax shelter retirement plans—aren’t you just a little bit suspicious that you’re being manipulated?” This is the crux of the problem when the government asks you to relinquish control of your dollars to them. They make promises that it’ll be good for you, but it’s even better for them. One promise, for example, is that you get to defer taxes or take a tax credit. And while you get to do that now, that doesn’t exempt you from paying taxes later. And the unfortunate truth is that not only are you paying taxes on the harvest (i.e. the larger sum), but taxes are also much likelier to increase over time than to decrease. In the end, you can’t guarantee future tax rates, but you can plan for them now. Wouldn’t you rather pay taxes now to be exempt later? It’s important to stop and think WHY you’re being told to take certain actions and figure out who benefits most. This is especially true if you’re being asked to relinquish control of your dollars to someone else. How Do Taxes Work? When we talk about taxes, it’s important to note exactly what that means. United States income taxes are marginal, which means that everybody’s dollars are taxed the same from the bottom up. So the first $11,000 of every person’s income is taxed at the same percentage. Then everyone’s dollars from $11,001 to $44,705 are taxed at the same percentage. So when we say that someone is in a 24% tax bracket, that doesn’t mean all of their income is being taxed at 24%. Their income is just high enough to have a portion of their income taxed at that percentage. So, someone earning $95,376 might be in a 24% tax bracket, but only a single dollar of their income would be taxed at 24%. This means that in determining taxes, not only do the brackets matter, but the size of the brackets matter. Your deductions also matter. If you’re able to itemize your deductions, you can see your tax bill fluctuate, regardless of your highest marginal tax rate. It’s entirely possible to be in a lower tax bracket and have a higher tax bill simply because you’re unable to deduct as much in a given year. All of this is important to understand because it can help you make better long-term decisions. For starters, if you feel that taxes would stay the same, would you still want to put your dollars where you can’t control them, only to pay taxes later? And if you think they will continue to change over the years, do you think the trend will be up or down? Or would you rather take control now by paying taxes now and keeping your dollars in your control with whole life insurance? Then, you can

Jan 1, 202450 min

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 19: The Retirement Trap

Prepare to see retirement in a new light as we dissect the traditional financial paradigm and question the perceived desirability of retirement. We promise to challenge your current beliefs and open your eyes to the pitfalls of relying solely on government plans for a secure financial future, and why we call it the retirement trap. Join us as we scrutinize Nelson Nash's Infinite Banking Concept as we continue reviewing Becoming Your Own Banker, a game-changing perspective on personal finance control. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EeYJuNTZBuU We'll unpack Nash's audacious prediction - the demise of social security, and its potential propping up using reserves like private pension plans. Exploring the history and evolution of social security since 1935, we'll reveal how this system has been a crutch for failing social programs. Uncover the importance of being in charge of your own finances, countering the fear of running out of money. Embrace a fresh perspective on retirement, replacing it with the concept of ownership. Listen in as we encourage continuous work and service to others, all while honing your skills. Learn how to break free from the government's influence on your income and escape the retirement trap it creates. We'll show you how to transform your life and business into something you love, by seizing control of your finances. Tune in, and let's together model successful people, reflecting on the difference between being controlled and being in control. Join us as we continue the series through Nelson Nash's work, Becoming Your Own Banker, to discuss the pitfalls of social security, pensions, retirement, and why you are better off without them. Rethinking Retirement as a Financial GoalWhat is the Retirement Trap?Government-Sponsored Retirement Traps AccountsHow Can You Avoid the Retirement Trap?The Value of OwnershipBook a Strategy Call Rethinking Retirement as a Financial Goal [06:50] “[Nelson] talks about how the American people are programmed both willingly and unwillingly.” What we mean by this is that we are constantly being bombarded with information, advertisements, and opinions that influence our worldview, both intentionally and unintentionally. We absorb so much about every conceivable topic, and the way most people view retirement is no different. Narratives are being fed to us about the “right” way to retire. The question is, are these ideas really helpful? And do they actually serve your personal goals for your money? We want to urge you to rethink your worldview, even if your ultimate conclusion stays the same. Because without that examination, how can you know that you have all the information you need to make the best possible decision for you? So today, we’re looking at the typical worldview of retirement, and asking the question: Is retirement what you should be striving for? What is the Retirement Trap? Retirement, and the concept of Social Security, is a socialist idea. It requires you to give up some financial control now by paying into the system so that in the future the government can supply what you need. This is the very zoomed-out perspective of the situation, but it begs the question: How much can you rely on the government to take care of me, and why should you? The earliest and simplest form of retirement was created as a way to take care of people who lived well beyond the life expectancy of the time because people generally worked their entire lives. In essence, this system was only meant to take care of those outliers that lived beyond life expectancy and perhaps couldn’t work. Now, life expectancy far exceeds age 65 or 70, and it’s a system we still implement. The problem is that when you relinquish control of your future earnings to the government, you have to trust them to provide. They’re in control, and your income is at their mercy unless you can otherwise supplement it. It’s not a reliable or sustainable way to live. [15:40] “Nobody takes care of your money the way you take care of your money. Now, a lot of people have good intentions, and in a capitalist society, you can get closer to taking care of people’s money better because you have an incentive… But when you don’t have a vested interest, like the United States government… they’re going to get paid their salary whether it works or not. Nobody’s held accountable.” This is why it’s critical to stay in control of as much of your own money as possible. Government-Sponsored Retirement Traps Accounts Social Security income isn’t the government’s only way of controlling your money, however. People hand over control of their dollars every single day by contributing to their 401k or their IRAs, which offer incentives like tax deferral. However, that money gets locked away and is difficult to access until you reach the distribution age. Then, when you’re ready to take that money as income, you’re hit with the taxes. In the meantime, the government gets to enjoy control

Dec 26, 202357 min

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 18: 3 Things You Need to Get Started with Infinite Banking

Change isn't easy. It's almost always more comfortable to stay the same than it is to do something new. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENHUPQ6oblQ What if the secret to financial freedom was already within your grasp, waiting for you to seize it? That's exactly what this episode of our podcast is about: the Infinite Banking Concept and the important role that desire and mindset play in it. We'll guide you on the journey to being your own banker, starting with battling negative thoughts and stepping into a positive mindset, as well as the 3 things you need to get started with Infinite Banking. We also share nuggets of wisdom from Nelson Nash on the importance of capitalizing on your system and the critical need to understand Infinite Banking fully. Embrace Change3 Things You Need to Get Started with Infinite Banking1. Desire2. Patience3. EnvironmentBook A Strategy Call Embrace Change Change is difficult and uncomfortable, however, you must have the desire to change in order to prepare yourself for Infinite Banking. Otherwise, you cannot go through the paradigm shift necessary to benefit from IBC. It's a completely different way of thinking than most people have been taught, and that can bring up some uncomfortable thoughts. The power of stepping outside of your comfort zone is that the catalyst for this action is often discomfort, too. So when your current discomfort becomes more unbearable than going through change, you're ready to grow. There's almost nothing you can do but go "up," so to speak. No matter how you're feeling, remember that the discomfort is temporary, and it serves to move you to the next phase of your life. It moves you to seek comfort, and you'll find it. If you’re ready for this journey, there are three things that Nelson Nash shares in his book that are essential for you to implement in your life, or otherwise embrace, to begin using the Infinite Banking Concept. 3 Things You Need to Get Started with Infinite Banking 1. Desire To become a person who uses the Infinite Banking Concept, you have to have a strong desire. It's easy enough to say you want to use Infinite Banking. However, sometimes wanting to do something isn't enough. After all, there are dozens of other things you might want even more. And if your habits don't support your desire, it's going to be an even harder battle. Humans are complicated, and we have a lot of very human forces working against us. Parkinson’s law, for example, reflects our very human desire to spend the money that we have. Yet this law is the antithesis of Infinite Banking, which is about saving the money that we have in order to make better use of it later. Unfortunately, because most people are compelled to spend, they build habits that are hard to break. Your desire to implement IBC and use it to better your financial life has to be stronger than your human nature. It has to be stronger than your desire for other things. Each of us has to find our own compelling reasons to buy a life insurance policy—family, a dream career, security. Without those reasons guiding us, overcoming bad financial habits can be hard. More than that, your desire can’t simply be to outrun your bad habits. Doing so starts your journey on a negative foot, and brings other baggage with it, like shame and fear. You have to find reasons to use IBC that are rooted in the positive impacts it can have on your life. Again, what's most important to you in this world, and how can IBC help you support and protect those desires? 2. Patience Once you’ve established a desire for growth that is stronger than your desire to stay where you’re at, you’ll need patience. Whole life insurance, the preferred vehicle for executing the concept of Infinite Banking, is a long-term product. You’ll be funding this policy, ideally, for as long as possible over the course of your life. [29:57] “Without patience, you’re not going to stay committed to something that’s hard.” You have to be committed to the bigger picture, which sometimes looks like sacrifice, and other times is simply waiting. This is especially true of those early years when you’re in the capitalization phase. You might not do anything more exciting than paying your premiums for years, and that's okay. Remember that it’s all in service of your greater goals and desires for your money. 3. Environment [39:24] “It’s very difficult to make a change without changing something in your environment.” Maybe you’ve heard the general concept that you’re the sum of the people you spend the most time with. This is true about your financial environment too. If you surround yourself with people who are financially literate, curious, and like to stay up-to-date on the financial news, you’re going to be in good company. You won’t just find camaraderie that keeps you motivated, you’ll also learn and absorb new information all the time. The environment you find yourself in

Dec 18, 202357 min

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 17: IBC Capitalization with Equipment Financing

Infinite Banking gives you the advantages of cash value, dividends, and a death benefit that all grow over time, making a policy more and more attractive the longer you have it. And the methods to fund your policy are as unique as you are. Because you have a need to pay for things during your lifetime, the IBC capitalization of whole life insurance addresses this need head-on. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwWoL_l3x-s Rather than thinking of your life insurance and your large ticket purchases as two separate things, Infinite Banking demonstrates a system to do both. By financing large purchases like cars, equipment, and rental properties with your Infinite Banking policy, using it to control the banking function, you can add dollars into the policy that make it perform better over time. Unlock the secrets to controlling your own finances with an in-depth exploration of Nelson Nash's "Becoming Your Own Banker." Experience the power of capitalizing a policy that provides greater acceleration, increased cash value, and dividend returns, and learn how this process allows you to reap the benefits of the Infinite Banking Concept. We'll also tackle the human condition's impact on understanding and utilizing this concept, and how personal growth and mindset shifts are necessary to maximize these benefits. Discover how to finance equipment using infinite banking, focusing on maximizing your policy's value. Listen as we break down Nash's method: financing a policy for just four years, then using dividends and a slice of the death benefit to pay the base policy. We'll also delve into the potential of combining a policy with equipment financing, forming a powerful financial tool that helps you purchase assets without traditional financing. What If You Don’t Want to Capitalize As Long As Possible?Using Your Money After IBC CapitalizationCan You Pay Additional Interest?Book A Strategy Call What If You Don’t Want to Capitalize As Long As Possible? Last week, in our conversation on capitalization, we concluded that if you want the maximum amount of cash value growth, you’ve got to maximize your capitalization. That means paying all of your base premiums and all of your PUAs for as long as you possibly can. However, there may be reasons that you can’t do this, or don’t want to do this. After all, life happens unexpectedly, and sometimes we have to pivot our plans. That’s why Nelson offers an alternate option in his book. What if you only maximized your capitalization for 4 years? Then, after that, you started to use the policy, and you found other ways to fund the premium? While his example may feel extreme, it highlights just how flexible whole life insurance can be—that even in four years, your policy can basically pay its own premiums. He does this by surrendering the dividend and using it to fund the base premium only—no PUAs. However, in four years, the dividend isn’t quite high enough to do this fully, so he also surrenders some death benefit. This reduces his base premium, making it possible for the dividend to fully cover the base premium if he chooses. Using Your Money After IBC Capitalization So let’s examine Nelson’s method in this chapter. After he pays premiums with the dividend, he recommends using the banking function. In other words, it’s time to finance a purchase. In his particular example, he has a little over $159,000 of cash value. And in order for the insurance company to make money off of that, they have to lend an equivalent sum to someone. So, of course, they’re going to lend it to you. When the insurance company lends you money, they’re giving you their money, not yours. Instead, they put a lien against your cash value. That way, if you don’t pay, you can consume your cash value to reduce the loan (however, you don’t want to do this if your goal is to have a large pool of capital). What you want to do is diligently pay your loan back, at the very least, with interest-only payments. Yes, this does mean that access to your capital has an interest cost. But here’s the thing, if you were to pay cash instead, you have an interest cost still—the cost of what that money could have earned over your lifetime. That’s the opportunity cost. And while it may not seem tangible, it is. By financing through your insurance policy, you get to earn interest at the same time. Not only that, but the interest you pay to the company strengthens the company’s profits, which eventually strengthens your dividend. Can You Pay Additional Interest? If you’re not currently maximizing your premiums for whatever reason, Nelson recommends a different repayment strategy than the interest-only arrangement: paying additional interest. What does it mean to pay additional interest? Additional interest is only something you can contribute if you have not maximized your capitalization through PUAs. This is money over and beyond what you’ve chosen to pay for your amortization schedule and is thus

Dec 11, 20231h 3m

Seven Generations Legacy Book Launch

In this episode, we discuss how our new book, "Seven Generations Legacy," serves as a guide to creating a lasting legacy for future generations. The discussion emphasized the significance of leaving behind more than just material wealth. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRTFIUmxw20 In the world of wealth management and estate planning, the term "legacy" is often used to refer to the financial inheritance we leave behind for our loved ones. However, legacy extends beyond monetary value and encompasses our values, traditions, and life lessons that are passed down to future generations. (0:01:00) - Design a Multi-Generational Legacy (10 Minutes)(0:10:45) - Near-Death Experience and Reflection on Family (14 Minutes)(0:24:33) - Book Pre-Order Special Offers (11 Minutes)(0:35:18) - Seven Generations Legacy Planning and Meaningful Inheritance (13 Minutes)(0:48:40) - Passing on Generational Wealth and Legacy (15 Minutes)Book a Strategy Call (0:01:00) - Seven Generations Legacy: Design a Multi-Generational Legacy (10 Minutes) This segment explores the importance of legacy planning and creating a multi-generational legacy beyond just money. We discuss the questions and concerns many people have about what will happen to their children and their values after they pass away. Introducing our new book, "Seven Generations Legacy: Design a Multigenerational Legacy of More than Money" we explain how it can help readers create a lasting legacy for their families. Gain insight into the importance of legacy planning and how this book can guide you in creating a meaningful and impactful legacy for future generations. (0:10:45) - Near-Death Experience and Reflection on Family (14 Minutes) This segment explores the personal experience of the host, Rachel, who faced severe health complications after delivering her second daughter. Rachel shares her near-death experience and the miraculous recovery that followed, highlighting the emotions and realizations that came with this life-threatening event. The conversation delves into the understanding that life is a precious gift and emphasizes the significance of each individual's purpose within their family. (0:24:33) - Book Pre-Order Special Offers (11 Minutes) This segment explores the topic of legacy planning and how to leave a financial inheritance for your children without negatively impacting their character and stewardship. We discuss the power of money and how it can magnify one's soul, emphasizing that it is neither inherently good nor bad. Building strong relationships within the family, especially between spouses, is crucial for creating a cohesive and unified legacy. We also offer a special pre-order bonus for our listeners, including the audiobook and e-book, as well as tools for building resilient relationships and getting started with estate planning. Additionally, we reveal a special bonus on how to train children for financial stewardship. Overall, this chapter provides valuable insights and practical tools for creating a lasting legacy for your family. So, when you pre-order your copy (BY DECEMBER 9TH), just email a screenshot of your purchase to [email protected], and we’ll send you your AUDIOBOOK + E-BOOK you can read right away, PLUS the Financial Literacy Lessons ABSOLUTELY FREE! https://www.amazon.com/Seven-Generations.../dp/B0CN1RX8H8 (0:35:18) - Seven Generations Legacy Planning and Meaningful Inheritance (13 Minutes) This chapter explores the main problem with typical legacy and estate planning, which often overlooks the deeper meaning behind the legacy. Instead of solely focusing on money and legal structures, we discuss the importance of considering the values and intentions behind leaving an inheritance. We also touch on the "shirt sleeves to shirt sleeves" proverb, which highlights the common downfall of generational wealth. To break this curse, we emphasize the need to develop not only financial capital, but also the family relationships and foundation that allow wealth to flow through generations. (0:48:40) - Passing on Generational Wealth and Legacy (15 Minutes) This chapter explores the topic of leaving a legacy for future generations, specifically through financial inheritance. We discuss the importance of not just passing down money, but also instilling values and skills in our children so that they can continue to pass down wealth to their own children. We also touch on the idea of thinking seven generations ahead, and how this can lead to better decision making and a stronger legacy. Additionally, we share our personal favorite section of the book, which includes writing love letters to our children and affirming them with our love. Overall, this chapter emphasizes the importance of intentional and long-term thinking when it comes to leaving a lasting legacy for our descendants. Book a Strategy Call Navigating the pitfalls of leaving an inheritance, complexities of wealth transfer, and famil

Dec 7, 20231h 7m

Successful Parenting for Prosperous Families, with Dr. Lee Hausner

The glitz and glamour of the affluent world may seem highly appealing with its endless opportunities and vast resources. However, successful parenting within this context can present unique and sometimes complex challenges. This complexity stems from the need to balance comfort and indulgence with long-term development and well-being. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ob4I7dL6whk In this episode, renowned expert Dr. Lee Hausner shared her invaluable insights into navigating these dynamics successfully, providing a roadmap for parents in affluent families. Exploring the Key Challenges of Successful ParentingPractical Strategies for Successful Parenting in Wealthy HouseholdsThe Role of Parenting in Developing Human CapitalAddressing Discipline and Social Media ImpactIn ConclusionAbout Dr. Lee HausnerBook a Strategy Call Exploring the Key Challenges of Successful Parenting The abundance of resources in affluent families can bring about unique challenges in parenting. The primary concern, as identified by Dr. Hausner, is the struggle to balance comfort and long-term well-being. Wealthy parents, driven by their desire to provide the best for their children, often unintentionally create a chaotic environment. The crux of the problem lies in overindulgence. Excessive pampering and providing for every whim and fancy of the child can inhibit their development. This hinders the child's ability to grow into competent, confident, and resilient individuals who can navigate life's ups and downs successfully. Practical Strategies for Successful Parenting in Wealthy Households To counter these challenges, Dr. Hausner outlines several practical strategies that parents can adopt for successful parenting within wealthy households. She strongly advocates for the fostering of resilience and competency in children. By exposing children to situations where they can overcome obstacles and bounce back from failures, parents can build their resilience and equip them with the skills to handle life's challenges. Additionally, teaching children values like delayed gratification can help counter the immediate gratification culture that is prevalent in today's society. This skill is particularly important in affluent families where children can have access to whatever they want instantly. Dr. Hausner also stresses the need for parents to be intentional in their parenting. Rather than succumbing to the pressures of providing everything, parents should be purposeful in their decisions and actions. This includes instilling a sense of responsibility and independence in children, teaching them to take ownership of their actions and decisions. The Role of Parenting in Developing Human Capital In the podcast, Dr. Hausner introduces the concept of 'true wealth' that extends beyond material possessions. She elaborates on the crucial role parenting plays in developing human capital, which is about preparing the next generation not just for the inheritance of passive wealth, but for actively managing and growing it. The role of a trustee in wealth distribution also becomes significant in this context. Dr. Hausner introduces the four capitals of wealth: human, intellectual, financial, and social. Each of these aspects needs to be developed to create a balanced, well-rounded individual. The focus is on building a comprehensive set of skills and abilities in children, equipping them to handle the wealth they inherit and use it responsibly and effectively. Addressing Discipline and Social Media Impact The podcast also delves into the importance of effective discipline and the impact of social media on children's well-being. Dr. Hausner emphasizes the need for setting clear rules and consequences for children. These need to be communicated effectively and implemented consistently to ensure discipline. Changes in parenting approaches, if required, should be done in a positive and constructive manner. In today's digital age, the impact of social media on children's mental and emotional well-being cannot be overlooked. Dr. Hausner underscores the importance of limiting children's exposure to social media and being aware of their online activities. Parents should have open conversations about online safety and the potential risks associated with excessive social media use. In Conclusion Parenting in affluent families can indeed be complex and challenging. However, with the right strategies in place, these challenges can be navigated successfully. By fostering resilience, teaching valuable life skills, and monitoring children's social media usage, parents can ensure their children's long-term well-being. By focusing not just on material wealth but also on developing human capital, parents can raise balanced, resilient, and compassionate children, thereby securing a prosperous future for generations to come. Tune in to this enlightening podcast episode to gain a deeper understanding of successful paren

Dec 4, 20231h 1m

Becoming Your Own Banker, Part 16: Controlling the Banking Function

Prepare to elevate your financial game as we unravel the infinite secrets in Nelson Nash's Infinite Banking concept. Promise yourself a brighter financial future armed with the knowledge of how you can start controlling the banking function in your life, maximizing your cash value, and creating a lasting legacy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBWRAq4WcNs We’ll reveal how to strategically capitalize your banking system so that you can experience the power of Infinite Banking in your life and legacy. Dividend-paying life insurance makes everything you’re already doing in your financial life better—financing, income, saving, investing, and leaving a legacy. That’s because you gain a banking system that produces compounding interest and dividends that you can use in various ways. As we navigate through Nash's infinite banking concept, we shed light on taxable income and financing in banking. We break down how this concept can be used to finance significant purchases, using a logging truck as a case study. We also offer valuable tips for success in business, reminding you that understanding the perspective behind the words is pivotal to applying the Infinite Banking concept in various financial scenarios. We're excited to share these insights and encourage you to consider booking a session with an advisor to fully leverage this concept. Let's together create an empowering financial future! The bottom line is that capitalization drives your ability to reap the benefits. The more you capitalize, the greater your advantages. How you capitalize and the methods you use are a matter that requires looking at your personal situation and playing your cards best, whatever hand you are dealt. Controlling the Banking FunctionCapitalization is Key Other Ways to Capitalize an IBC PolicyHow Long Should You Capitalize? Book A Strategy Call Controlling the Banking Function When we talk about the Infinite Banking Concept, it's critical to understand that IBC refers to the banking function, not the asset you use (whole life insurance). So what does it mean to control the banking function? Controlling the banking function is about replacing the bankers in your life and, as the title of Nelson Nash's book suggests, becoming your own. You're NOT becoming the bank, however. What it means to be the banker is to be in control of how you save, store, and invest your capital. You're in control of moving money and approving major financing, rather than relying on someone else to do it for you. And in order to control the banking function in your life, you have to have capital. That's where whole life insurance comes in. Whole life insurance is an ideal place to store and grow your capital for many reasons, namely that you get to partake in safety, liquidity, and growth. Many assets only offer two of the three components, maximum. Controlling the banking function doesn't stop there, though. You've got to fund the asset, which Nelson also calls the capitalization phase. This is central to the Infinite Banking strategy. Capitalization is Key [10:30] “The end conclusion of this chapter is that the most cash value and the most death benefit at the end of the policy–the way you get that–is to capitalize the most. And what you can do to capitalize the most is to pay all of your base premium and all of your paid-up additions stacked together…all the way out [for] as long as possible in the policy.” Capitalization is how you build your capital, and you only do that through contributions. This is a big reason that cash value acts like a savings vehicle—because those premiums and PUAs contribute directly to cash value growth. The more you maximize your payments each year, the more capital you’ll build–now and later. So if you plan to use the living benefits of your whole life insurance, you’ve got to capitalize. You should want to pay as much money as possible because that’s going to create the foundation for your financial future. Other Ways to Capitalize an IBC Policy Another capitalization method that Nelson mentions in his book is doing a “short pay” of your policies. This would mean making maximum contributions for a short period of time, say the first 4 years. After that, you can begin using the policy for investments. Nelson’s example in the book is to purchase equipment. With the profit from the investment, you can not only pay the interest charged by the insurance company, you can actually pay additional interest. But the only way to do this is if you have not fully paid your PUAs. In fact, in Nelson’s example, he even goes as far as stopping premiums altogether by lowering his death benefit a little and then using the dividend to cover the remaining base premium. However, this can also work if you know you need to make premium payments AND a loan payment at the same time, yet are stretched thin. By focusing on the base premium with your regular income, and then paying additional intere

Nov 27, 20231h 6m