Uncommon Wealth Podcast

Welcome to another episode of the Uncommon Wealth podcast, featuring the charismatic Clife Estores, a DJ who has turned the art of partying into a thriving business. This episode dives into the behind-the-scenes of DJing, entrepreneurship, and the pursuit of an uncommon life path that aligns with one's passions.Clife shares his story of moving from the Philippines to Cedar Rapids, his evolution from performing at small community events to founding Clife DJ Company, and the importance of differentiating his services in the wedding industry. Additionally, he discusses the core values of his company, the strategies for dealing with challenges during events, and his approach to creating unforgettable experiences for his clients.

In this episode of the Uncommon Wealth podcast, host Philip Ramsey and co-host Arron Kramer are joined by Stephen Smith, creator of Cajun Fest and founder of Rework. They discuss the concept of "golden handcuffs" and how it can trap individuals in unfulfilling jobs. Smith shares insights on measuring productivity and the importance of psychological safety in the workplace. He also offers advice for business owners on combating the golden handcuffs mentality and fostering a culture of innovation. Tune in to learn how to break free from the constraints of traditional employment and pursue an uncommon path.Key quotes from Stephen Smith:"Modern day employment is the great domestication of man.""Our incentives aren't aligned for innovation. Our incentives are keeping people in the exact same spot.""People start to become checked out and feel like they lost their life because they're starting to realize, I've been domesticated.""You can't manage what you don't measure in your personal or your professional life.""Measure the outcomes, not the distributive and procedural justice.""Figure out what they want you to do in 40 hours and learn how to do it in 20.""Take the last 10 hours to develop yourself professionally and be the best personal you can be.""You assume that my presence means I'm present, and that is absolutely a farce.""You can't manage what you don't measure. So how do we understand and crowdsource this information?""We need to have an organizational health MRI. We need to understand what's going on and where we need to make changes."

In this episode of the Uncommonwealth podcast, host Phillip Ramsey welcomes the multifaceted David Barwin for a deep-dive into his unique journey and the roles that shape his life. As a guiding figure in the world of business education and an active facilitator for the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program, David sheds light on the intricate dance of teaching, coaching, and fatherhood.David walks us through his transition from athletics to coaching, and eventually to academia, where he found a profound joy in helping others realize their potential. His experiences growing up with an entrepreneurial father offered formative lessons that he now passes forward, both as a business professor and through the Goldman Sachs program. Furthermore, David opens up about his approach to parenting, teaching, and the delicate balancing act required. David's unique approach to education, blending coaching methodologies with business teachings. Insights into the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program, its mission, and impact on communities. The importance of fostering growth-mindedness and ambition among entrepreneurs in the Midwest. Personal anecdotes about parenting and instilling values of self-made success, reminiscent of the lessons from his father. Reflective insights on how to support and inspire students and business owners towards achieving their full potential.Key Takeaways: David Barwin illustrates the rewarding experience of transitioning from an athlete to a coach and then to a business educator. He emphasizes the value of entrepreneurship education and its ability to empower students and local communities. David is a key facilitator for the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program, advocating the program's benefits for small business growth. He shares a conscious approach to parenting, highlighting the importance of intentionality and supportive encouragement. The episode explores the idea of striving for success that aligns with one's passions and the positive ripple effect

We're replaying this one for you this week because it's so important. If you heard it the first time around, feel free to give it a listen again. If not, take it in fresh and let us know what feedback you have. When pursuing the life of an entrepreneur, there is nothing that can help smooth out rough waters, reinvigorate fading optimism, or remind you of what is truly important, quite like a supportive spouse. For an endeavor that is fraught with unknowns, the steady encouragement from the one you likely started this thing to impress anyway can be the difference between success or failure.In this episode, we’re talking about the power of a supportive spouse. We’ll touch on the superpowers of our own wives, plus ways a spouse can support an uncommon journey and how you can reciprocate. We’ll also talk about ways our own wives have shaped our uncommon paths.

In this episode of the Uncommon Wealth podcast, hosts Philip Ramsey and Arron Cramer discuss the power of a simple text message that says "Do you have eight minutes?" They explore how just eight minutes of conversation with someone can completely change your mindset and help you move from a negative state to a more positive outlook. They also emphasize the importance of having people in your life who are willing to listen and support you during difficult times. This episode offers a simple step to reach out to others and create meaningful connections.Have feedback for us? Call or text our feedback line at (515) 446-8158

As the Uncommon Wealth Podcast hits a monumental 200 episodes, we're treating you to a reflective and behind-the-scenes look at the heart and evolution of the show. Bringing in special guest Ben Fust, we dive into the making of this influential platform and its impact on both the audience and hosts alike.The episode begins with a celebration and quickly transitions into a thoughtful examination of the show's progression. The discussion revolves around the increased frequency of episodes, the intention behind content shifts, and the delicate balance of influence versus the personal toll of consistently producing a podcast. Central themes include the intrinsic rewards of podcasting, adapting content to match capacity, and maintaining influence without overwhelming personal commitments or expectations.Key Takeaways: The significance of reaching 200 podcast episodes and the personal fulfillment gained from producing the show. The importance and challenges of podcast consistency and the impact of changes in episode frequency and structure. Insights on the effect of transitioning team dynamics on podcast content and delivery. The realization that podcast listener numbers, while informative, don't always capture the full value of content creation. The encouragement for entrepreneurs and content creators to find joy in the process rather than base success solely on outcomes.Notable Quotes: "Influence tends to require a level of consistency." "Measuring the right things is important. Numbers isn't necessarily. It's an indicator. It tells you something. But it doesn't mean it tells you everything." "If your sphere of influence is, you're able to hold x number of folks that you could actually sustain influencing, and you got XY back...Like, you can't actually even support that number of people who, like, listen to the show." "Being faithful in the means because, like, the ends are delayed, your expectations are different."

In this revealing episode, we offer an inside look at how financial practices are built, how advisors get started, and the challenges they face within the industry. Their personal experiences and decisions highlight the importance of aligning business models with core values, prioritizing client relationships over profits.The conversation covers a range of topics, from the typical pathways for new financial advisors joining larger broker-dealer firms to the differences between commission-based and trail-based revenue models. The hosts don't shy away from discussing the sometimes harsh realities of starting out in the industry and the ethical dilemmas they faced early in their careers. We passionately believe in a client-centered approach and stress the benefits of building a practice on residual income over upfront commissions. Phillip provides insights into how large firms structure their training and revenue models, often aligning advisors' interests with making immediate sales rather than fostering long-term client relationships. Arron's experiences underscore the importance of finding a firm that supports its advisors' growth without compromising client service. The duo emphasizes the significance of having a fee-based model that allows for transparent, unbiased advice and planning. Phillip and Arron share their commitment to continuous improvement, with a focus on serving clients and enhancing their offerings year after year. The hosts candidly reveal uncommon business practices they uphold, such as not having non-compete agreements to foster a supportive and mutually beneficial work environment.Key Takeaways: Financial advisors often start their careers with larger firms, facing the challenge of selling products for immediate commissions versus building trail-based residual income. It's essential for financial advisors to align their payment structure with their service values, maintaining client relationships as a priority over quick profits. A fee-based model assists advisors in providing unbiased plans without the pressure of immediately managing assets. Advisors' continuous growth and improvement are critical factors in providing the best possible service to clients -- this is the unwavering mission of the podcast hosts at Uncommon Wealth Partners. Ethical business practices, like forgoing non-compete clauses, serve to establish long-lasting trust and collaboration within the framework of the firm.Notable Quotes: "I'm never going to lose a friend over this." - Phillip discussing the ethical implications of sales tactics in the industry. "If I am, please fire me because that means I didn't get better." - Arron stressing the need for continuous improvement as advisors. "It's bananas... why is that? It's because there's a thing called compounding interest that works really well." - Phillip explaining the power of compound growth in their business.Resources: Uncommon Wealth Partners website: Uncommon Wealth Partner

Join hosts Phillip Ramsey and Arron Cramer on the Uncommon Wealth podcast as they delve into the third part of the series on how to think about money. In this episode, we'll explore the concept of financial freedom and the importance of defining it for yourself. We also discuss the dangers of comparing yourself to others and the true meaning of wealth. Discover how to prioritize relationships and experiences over material possessions and gain a fresh perspective on what it means to be truly wealthy. Tune in for an insightful and thought-provoking discussion on money and mindset.

In this introspective episode of the Uncommon Wealth podcast, we delve into a thought-provoking discussion about the concept of hurry and its impact on our lives. Tapping into the underlying thesis of "The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry" by John Mark Comer, we examine the idea that the constant rush and busy hustle of modern life may actually distance us from true joy and intentionality.

In this Simple Step episode, we talk about the vital practice of maintaining focus on your financial objectives, finding value in the commitment to your financial plan and the importance of resilience against distractions that lead to shifting goalposts. Whether you're an investor, an entrepreneur, or just someone aiming for personal wealth development, this episode serves as a motivational guide to steadfastness in pursuit of your uncommon path. 

In this bonus discussion, we react to our episode 195 interview with Nick Darland of HomeRevisions, LLC. 

In this episode of the Uncommon Wealth Podcast, hosts Phillip Ramsey and Arron Cramer delve into the extraordinary journey of entrepreneur Nick Darland, the founder of the construction company HomeRevisions, LLC. The episode is a treasure trove of insights into how Nick confronted his adversities, starting a business at a young age, experiencing failure, and rising again with renewed vigor to create a venture that is a testament to quality craftsmanship and dedication.Nick's spellbinding narrative encompasses the inception of his business, the trials faced during its nascent stages, including dealing with debt and personal life challenges. The conversation also touches upon the significance of having strong support systems such as his wife Taylor, who played an instrumental role in Home Revisions' success. Furthermore, Nick shares transformative experiences related to his faith and how it has impacted both his personal and professional life.

In this bonus discussion, we react to our episode 193 interview with Robert and Dan Cramer of Cramer and Associates. 

In this episode of the Uncommon Wealth podcast, we continue our Money Mindset series discussing the power of compounding, the importance of accumulating wealth versus staying wealthy, and the significance of making wise investment decisions. We'll talk about why you need a financial plan tailored to individual goals and values, and the value of pursuing passions and monetizing them to enhance retirement. We'll also touch on why it's important to have a balanced approach to investing and the dangers of chasing big winners. 

Robert Cramer and Dan Cramer are second-generation leaders of Cramer and Associates, a family-founded construction company specializing in bridge and culvert building. Following the entrepreneurial spirit of their fathers, both Robert and Dan have advanced the company by maintaining a strong work ethic and upholding values of integrity and quality craftsmanship.The conversation unfolds with a reflection on the company's origins, Robert and Dan offer a historical account of how their fathers, hailing from humble beginnings, leveraged the interstate system construction boom to establish Cramer Brothers and eventually transitioned to Cramer and Associates. They emphasize the importance of the employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) in fostering a culture of ownership and responsibility among workers, fundamentally shaping the company's success.Key Takeaways from the episode include: The pivotal role of strategic generational transitions in maintaining a company's longevity. How the ESOP model can empower employees and positively affect a company's performance. The significance of incorporating personal faith and values into business practices and leadership. The importance of on-field leadership in ensuring efficiency and fostering a culture of ownership. The challenges and growth opportunities presented by large-scale infrastructure projects.Notable Quotes: "If you look at the ESOP as a giveaway, you'll be very happy with it." - Robert Cramer "Having an eternal perspective, I think a good spiritual perspective allows you to have a sense of humility in leadership." - Dan Cramer "It just flat doesn't work today... you've lost that 'it's on me, I need to figure this out.'" - Dan Cramer on adapting leadership styles. "Every job we get, we have to be the low bidder, right? Because it's public money." - Robert Cramer on the bidding nature of the construction industry.

In this episode's simple step, we're talking about how to use personality frameworks to better understand your unique traits. Popular tools such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, DISC profile, and the Enneagram can be valuable to help you recognize your distinct "superpowers" and the advantages of acknowledging your weaknesses.

In this bonus discussion, we react to our episode 191 interview with Tom Hay of Hay Window Cleaning. 

In this episode of the Uncommon Wealth podcast, we had the pleasure of introducing Tom Hay, the entrepreneurial mind behind Hay Window Cleaning. Tom's journey began at the tender age of twelve when he was pulled into the family business. Over the past two decades, he has been instrumental in shaping the services and customer care that have become synonymous with his company.During the episode, Tom shared insightful details about the transition from considering a career in mechanical or electrical engineering to fully embracing the family business, highlighting the pivotal role of punctuality, hard work, exceptional customer service, and job satisfaction in the success of Hay Window Cleaning.

In this bonus discussion, we react to our episode 189 interview with Wiebe Goodyk, owner of Pella Building Systems. 

In this episode of the Uncommon Wealth Podcast, we'll tackle the complex and often personal relationship people have with money. We discuss the influences that shape our financial perspectives, the role of luck in investing, and the potentially unquenchable human desire for more wealth.In the end, true wealth comes from an uncommon mindset — finding joy in one’s day-to-day life, not just in the pursuit of financial milestones. The conversation is an invitation to redefine wealth and discover what it truly means to be prosperous.

Wiebe Goodyk, owner of Pella Building Systems, shares his uncommon path to success in the storage unit industry. After college, Wiebe joined his father's business and quickly developed a passion for storage units. Following his father's passing, Wiebe took over the company and focused on expanding and evolving the business. With a team of dedicated employees, Pella Building Systems has grown and thrived, offering storage solutions to a variety of customers. Weeb's dedication to building relationships and providing excellent service has propelled the company forward.

In this week's simple step, we're challenging you to figure out what you're thankful for, write it down, and take some action on it. Let us know if anything surprised you about your list! 

In this bonus discussion, we react to our episode 187 interview with Mike Bartos, owner of Power Center Weights. 

Mike Bartos, owner of Power Center, shares his uncommon journey in the strength training industry. From starting as a gym owner to creating and selling his own equipment, Mike has faced challenges and taken risks to build his business. He emphasizes the importance of passion, perseverance, and gratitude in achieving success. With a loyal customer base and a focus on providing high-quality products, Mike looks forward to expanding his product line and continuing to make a difference in the strength training community.

2023 was a year of challenges and growth. In this episode, we  look back at some of our significant changes, including the transition from using money managers to managing our clients' money ourselves, and the benefits of this approach. We also talk about the importance of being adaptable and constantly learning in the financial industry. Plus, the value of taking the emotion out of investing and following a strategic, long-term approach and the impact of the TD Ameritrade and Charles Schwab merger on our clients. Lots to digest and use to make 2024 even better, we hope you enjoy the discussion. What lessons are you taking with you into this new year?

Scott Krava, the founder of Dreaming Big, joins the Uncommon Wealth podcast to share his journey of starting and growing his apparel brand. He discusses how he came up with the idea for Dreaming Big and the process of designing his merchandise. Scott emphasizes the importance of taking action and learning from failures along the way. He also talks about the significance of his brand's mascot, the duck, and how it represents his own journey of realizing his dreams. Scott's vision for Dreaming Big is to make it known worldwide and inspire people to pursue their passions.

In this bonus discussion, we react to our episode 183 interview with Brandon McNace, founder of Exodus 5:1. 

In this simple step episode, we discuss the importance of being the tortoise rather than the hare when it comes to achieving success. There's  value of slow and steady progress and you'll be head to find joy in the process and focus on consistent effort rather than seeking quick wins.

Brandon McNace is a former finance professional who left his dream job to pursue a calling to free slaves in Pakistan. He is the founder of Exodus 5:1, an organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating victims of modern-day slavery.Brandon shares his journey from a successful career in finance to becoming a modern-day abolitionist. He recounts the pivotal moments and encounters that led him to leave his job and start working to free slaves in Pakistan. Brandon explains the process of buying slaves out of bondage and the challenges they face in reintegrating into society. He also discusses the impact of his work and the importance of raising awareness about modern-day slavery. Brandon reveals his vision for the future, including plans for a new campus and the goal of setting free millions of slaves worldwide.

This week we're discussing the book "Chop Wood, Carry Water" by Joshua Metcalf, which teaches valuable lessons about finding joy in the journey and embracing the process of achieving one's goals. We'll cover key themes in the book including the importance of patience, discipline, and focusing on the present moment. We also discuss the significance of having a strong identity outside of one's work and the value of being a good listener. 

Brad Moeckley, a farmer from Iowa, shares his life-changing experience of going on a bear hunt in Alaska. Despite being a non-hunter, Brad challenged himself to reconnect with God, facing physical challenges and forming a close bond with his guide, Ralph. After days of searching, Brad finally had the opportunity to shoot a bear,. The experience taught Brad the importance of perseverance and relying on God's guidance. He now views people differently and has a deeper understanding of God's faithfulness. The bear hunt was just a small part of the transformative journey. 

In this week's simple step, we're airing out our thankfulness. "Tis the season for being reminded that oftentimes our dissatisfaction can come from forgetting how grateful we should be for the things around us. What are you thankful for? 

In this bonus discussion, we react to our episode 179 interview with Josh Nielsen, founder of Zencastr.

Josh Nielsen, the creator of Zencastr, shares his journey of building a successful publishing company for podcasters. Looking to create both financial and geographical independence for his family, he initially started the company to solve the problem of remote recording for podcasters, but as the podcasting industry grew, Zencastr expanded its services to include hosting, distribution, audience growth, and monetization. Josh discusses the challenges he faced along the way, including the need to hire a team and manage the growth of the business. He emphasizes the importance of finding satisfaction beyond financial success and the value of helping others achieve their goals.

Welcome to the Uncommon Wealth Podcast, where we explore the stories of individuals who have chosen to live an uncommon life. In this episode, we delve into the topic of discouragement and the reasons why people may try to dissuade you from pursuing your dreams. We will examine the fear of failure, jealousy or envy, limited beliefs, and societal expectations. By understanding these factors, we can better prepare ourselves for the challenges that may arise on our uncommon journey.

In this bonus discussion, we discuss our episode 177 interview with Brittany Overton. To listen to the original interview, check out https://uncommonwealth.com/podcast/positive-emissions/

Brittany Overton, founder of Positive Emissions, joins us to discuss her unique approach to preserving family memories through life documentaries. Brittany shares her personal journey, from being a radiation therapist to pursuing her passion for storytelling. She explains how her own experiences with illness and the loss of loved ones inspired her to start documenting life stories. Brittany emphasizes the importance of capturing family history and the value it holds for future generations. She also discusses the process of creating a life documentary, from initial meetings to filming and editing. Despite the challenges of starting a new career, Brittany's faith and the support of her husband have helped her navigate the journey. She encourages listeners to embrace change and surround themselves with a supportive community.

In this episode's simple step, we're talking about the power and perhaps even intrigue of asking really good questions, especially when trying to build relationships. There are a million really good questions out there, of course, but a great one to start with is: If you knew you couldn't fail, what would you do?Take a listen, try it out, and let us know what kind of reactions you're getting or even how you would answer the question yourself. 

Ok, so we need a mulligan on this one. Although we believe the actual interview with Scott Lowe and James Green will perhaps surface eventually, we seem to have misplaced it. However, we do still have our discussion after that interview, which is an enlightening enough taste of the actual interview that it's still worth sharing. It's a 10 minute listen, we hope you enjoy it. And if you happen to find our missing podcast recording anywhere, be a dear and send it back home to us, please. We won't be mad, we just want it back. 

James Green and Scott Lowe, former partners at Actual Tech Media, discuss their journey of building and selling their successful business. They highlight the importance of having a strong team and the support of their spouses throughout the process. They also share the challenges they faced and the lessons they learned along the way. The conversation touches on topics such as the decision to sell, the role of a CFO, and the need for boundaries and self-care.

In this episode of the Uncommon Wealth Podcast, Philip and Arron discuss the challenges of transitions in life, such as retirement or selling a business, and the potential for burnout and identity issues that can arise during these times. They emphasize the importance of finding purpose and diversifying interests to maintain a sense of identity and fulfillment. We also discuss the value of serving others and mentoring as a way to find joy and purpose in life. 

In this bonus discussion, we discuss our episode 173 interview with Kevin Lease about overcoming obstacles. To listen to the original interview, check out https://uncommonwealth.com/podcast/overcoming-obstacles/

In this episode of the Uncommon Wealth podcast, host Philip Ramsey interviews Kevin Lease, a business consultant and coach. Kevin shares his uncommon journey and discusses the obstacles that people often face when trying to invest in themselves. He emphasizes the importance of belief in oneself and the need to overcome fear, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome. Kevin also highlights the value of being uncomfortable and embracing the process of growth. He encourages listeners to surround themselves with supportive people and to have a positive mindset.Key Takeaways: Overcoming fear and self-doubt is crucial when investing in oneself. Being uncomfortable is necessary for growth and success. Surrounding oneself with supportive people is important for achieving goals. Having a positive mindset and believing in oneself is essential for success.

What is the hard thing that you are holding off doing and what would it look like to go after it? This Simple Step episode is our quick encouragement to head right on in to the storm, you'll get through it faster. 

In this bonus discussion, we discuss our episode 171 interview with Jeremy Smith, owner of The BAR Performance Gym. To listen to the original interview, check out https://uncommonwealth.com/podcast/running-a-gym/

Sometimes, the events that seem to be throwing you off your path are the ones that lead to exactly where you need to be. For Jeremy Smith, those diversions lead him away from college in his final semester to a trying time caring for his dad during an illness. Then he found himself coping with life through drugs, a choice that eventually landed him in jail. But as Jeremy began to rebuild his life, and his confidence, in the gym, he also began to see a way forward. Through the renewing of his faith and the encouragement of others, Jeremy Smith would eventually find himself running his very own gym. In this episode, we discuss the hardships, hard decisions, and hard work that got Jeremy from college-dropout to gym owner.  Plus, his progress from 1:1 coaching to group sessions and beyond, a unique combo that makes up his business model. Finally, the power of the steadfast encouragement of a spouse and the importance of helping people build confidence along with their skills. To hear more from Jeremy, look for The Bar Performance Gym on Facebook and Instagram. 

In the wake of some significant changes the government made to public student loan programs in July of 2023 (with more to take effect in the future), resident student loan guru Arron Cramer is here to talk us through it. We'll talk about the changes to the various payback options, the impact of consolidation on public service forgiveness, and the inflation-relevant modification to how the payment amounts based upon income are now calculated. Plus, examples and tips on how to sort out the confusion and find help when you need it. 

In this bonus discussion, we talk about our episode 169 interview with Dr. Megan McCoy and our complex relationship with money. To listen to the original interview, click here: https://uncommonwealth.com/podcast/financial-therapy/

Managing your finances isn't just about holding, folding, spending and saving. In fact, how we approach money is often a complex web of our attitudes, desires, fears, goals, education, and relationships. This means that we often perceive our path to success as a set of financial behaviors when, in reality, being healthy financially requires engaging in the things that drive our behaviors in the first place. Enter Dr. Megan McCoy. In this episode, we talk with Dr. McCoy on the 4 main ways (scripts) folks relate to money, the key difference between a rich and poor mindset, and why logic often fails to have the desired impact on influencing our behavior. Plus, the curious consistency of financial anxiety people have, regardless of whether they have a financial advisor, and how to approach financial literacy in the school years in a way that doesn't contribute to that anxiety. Finally, the tangible power of optimism and the impact of COVID on, well, everything. Have feedback about the show? Shoot us an email at [email protected]. 

When you're uncommon in the little things, you'll often find that it spreads easily, impacting not only you but those around you. In this simple step episode, we're talking about encouraging others, relieving yourself of being the person that has to teach the world a lesson, and having some patience and grace for folks (even if they stink at the first two things in this list). What are some uncommon ways you can impact the world around you just a little bit today?