Financial Planning – The Truth About Wealth

Discovering Your Family’s Philanthropic Purpose with Momentem Consulting Group (Ep. 132)

By thetruthaboutwealth | March 26, 2025

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

What’s the secret to leaving a lasting legacy through philanthropy?

Join John and Michael Parise as they sit down with Marlene Olshan and Ann Figueredo from Momentem Consulting Group. Together, they explore how families can define and achieve meaningful philanthropic goals.

Marlene and Ann share their journeys and discuss Momentem’s mission to help both non-profits and high-net-worth individuals make purposeful impacts. From establishing a ‘Purpose Framework’ to unifying family values through philanthropic endeavors, the conversation is rich with insights for anyone tasked with managing family wealth.

Here’s what you’ll gain insight into:

The unique challenges and joys of intergenerational philanthropy [06:31]
Crafting a Purpose Framework to streamline philanthropic decisions [18:47]
Characteristics of successful philanthropists and how to aspire to that level [13:01]
The role of family dynamics in long-term philanthropic planning [29:18]
And more!

Connect with John and Michael Parise:

Connect with Momentem Consulting Group:

About Our Guests:

Ann Figueredo has over 35 years of experience as a strategy, marketing, new product development, and fundraising expert in the higher education, financial services, and pharmaceutical industries. She has held senior leadership positions to plan and execute successful comprehensive capital campaigns, launch new products and services domestically and internationally, and spearhead market research studies to open new market opportunities.

Ann is a graduate of Haverford College (BA) and Columbia University (MBA). She has held senior leadership roles at Haverford College, Germantown Friends School, SEI Investments, Spectrem Group, Visa International, Bankers Trust, and Pfizer.

Marlene Olshan has over 35 years of experience in executive leadership with functional expertise in strategy, operations, and fund development. Marlene has led organizations in the human services, retail, and financial services sectors, with particular expertise in positioning organizations to scale.

Marlene is a graduate of Temple University ( BA) and has received a Certificate in Public Policy Leadership from Harvard’s Kennedy School. She has held senior leadership positions at Vetri Community Partnership, Big Brothers Big Sisters Southeastern PA, The Department of Human Services for the City of Philadelphia, Spectrem Group, GIII Apparel Group, and Macy Specialty Stores.

Essential Tax Strategies for Real Estate Investors with Vanessa Wallace Clunies (Ep. 131)

By thetruthaboutwealth | January 8, 2025

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

Are you aware of the tax savings opportunities you’re missing by not employing cost segregation in your real estate investments?

Get ready to uncover the untapped potential of tax method changes that could revolutionize your approach to wealth management!

This week, Michael Parise and guest Vanessa Wallace Clunies from Tax Method Experts guide you through the complexities of cost segregation and tangible property regulations.

Tune in and discover how these can not only save you taxes but also ensure regulatory compliance!

Key talking points include:

The importance of cost segregation for accelerated depreciation benefits
Why tangible property regulations are mandatory and crucial for compliance; finding out if you’re at risk
How tax method changes can provide substantial deductions and reduce your tax liabilities
The importance of partnering with specialists to navigate complex tax codes effectively
And more!

Connect with Vanessa Wallace Clunies:

Connect with John and Michael Parise:

About Our Guest:

Vanessa Wallace Clunies is the CFO and COO of Tangible Property Tax Methods, LLC, a tax method change firm specializing in Tangible Property Regulation (TPR) compliance, method changes for large service providers, and cost segregation. She is an associate of the ASCSP and has over 9 years of experience in Tangible Property Regulations compliance and the preparation of thousands of IRS Form 3115 Change in Method of Accounting.

Vanessa supervises all of the engineers of TPTM who perform the detailed work to support the entity’s cost segregation reports, in addition to providing the tax insights that are key in this real estate profession.

Working closely with her father and the country’s expert on the TPRs, Eric P. Wallace, CPA, this dynamic duo has found to date over $300M in deductions for clients. She has analyzed over 1,000 depreciation schedules and has created corresponding tax deduction schedules with various permitted IRS automatic and non-automatic method change designated changes.

The Intersection of Energy and Wealth: Key Trends to Watch with Mitch Kerr (Ep. 130)

By thetruthaboutwealth | December 18, 2024

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

Are you ready for the next energy revolution?

John and Michael Parise from Copper Beech Financial Group explore this critical topic with Mitch Kerr, Senior Portfolio Manager at Ategenos Capital.

John, Michael, and Mitch examine the forces shaping global energy markets, from record-breaking oil production to the innovative potential of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). Mitch unpacks the complexities of LNG exports, the challenges renewables face in scaling, and how nuclear innovations are changing the energy landscape.

Tune in as they also discuss strategies for building future-ready portfolios, the role of cryptocurrencies and precious metals in uncertain markets, and the path forward for investors navigating a rapidly evolving global energy economy.

Key Talking Points:

(03:09) Oil production: Why high production meets low prices—and what it means for the future
(04:07) LNG exports: How natural gas is shaping geopolitics and global energy security
(14:29) Renewable energy: Addressing AI-driven electricity demand and scaling challenges
(16:40) Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): Why nuclear technology is poised for growth
(31:02) US energy independence: Policy shifts and their implications for global dominance
(32:14) Bitcoin, gold, and silver: Smart diversification strategies for an evolving economy
And much more!

Connect with Michael Kerr, CFA:

Connect with John and Michael Parise:

About Our Guest:

Mitch Kerr is a Senior Portfolio Manager for Ategenos Capital. As part of the Private Wealth team, he partners with advisors to serve their high-net-worth and institutional clients. He is also a member of Ategenos Capital’s Investment Committee.

Before joining Ategenos Capital, Mitch was the associate head of the wealth advisory practice at Brinker Capital Investments. He and his team collaborated with financial advisors to design and implement customized investment solutions for high-net-worth individuals and institutions.

Mitch brings over 22 years of experience in the investment management industry, with previous roles in portfolio management and investment research at TD Wealth, Wells Fargo Private Bank, and Gardner Lewis Asset Management.

Mitch received his Bachelor’s degree in Finance with a minor in Japanese from the University of Notre Dame. He holds his FINRA Series 7 and 66 licenses and is a CFA charter holder.

The Future of Money: Gold, Silver, and You with Andy Schectman (Ep. 129)

By thetruthaboutwealth | November 6, 2024

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

What happens when gold outpaces all expectations in a world where currency devalues?

In this episode, John and Michael Parise from Copper Beech Financial Group delve into this intriguing question with Andy Schectman from Miles Franklin.

John and Michael take you on an exploration of gold and silver markets, challenging the notion of free markets as Andy unravels the complexities of managed markets and manipulated perceptions.

So, tune in as they discuss the intriguing dynamics behind currency devaluation, the Western financial manipulation that impacts precious metals, and the growing global interest in precious metals.

Talking points include:

(01:38) The historical and ongoing manipulation of precious metals markets
(13:35) The role of central banks in gold accumulation and market dynamics
(16:44) The implications of the dollar devaluation on gold prices
(34:08) The emergence of a new BRICS settlement currency and its impact on global finance
And more!

Resources:

Connect with Andy Schectman:

Connect with John and Michael Parise:

About Our Guest:

Andy Schectman is the president and owner of Miles Franklin. Prior to starting Miles Franklin, Ltd. in 1989, Andrew became a Licensed Financial Planner, specializing in Swiss Franc Investments and alternative investments. At Miles Franklin Ltd., a company that has eclipsed $9 billion in sales, Andrew has developed an operation that maintains trust, collaboration, ethical behavior, superior customer service, and satisfaction to better serve their clients. He is responsible for overseeing the firm’s operations and business functions, including strategy and planning, account management, finance, and new business.

Estate Planning Essentials: Understanding Asset Succession (Ep. 128)

By thetruthaboutwealth | September 11, 2024

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

Have you reviewed your beneficiary designations lately? The impact could be more significant than you think. Ensuring your assets are inherited as you intend starts with one critical step: understanding the importance of asset succession and beneficiary designations.

Today on The Truth About Wealth, John and Michael Parise of Copper Beech Financial Group explore the complexities of asset succession in estate planning. From the nuances of beneficiary designations to the effects of the Secure Act, they highlight key information to ensure your wealth transitions smoothly to the next generation. Tune in to learn about protecting your family’s financial future and avoiding common estate planning mistakes.

John and Michael discuss:

Why it’s important to regularly review and update your beneficiary designations to ensure they reflect your current wishes and avoid potential familial conflicts
How the Secure Act impacts the inheritance of IRAs and strategies to minimize tax exposure for your heirs
How different asset titling affects inheritance and the importance of consulting legal advisors for proper asset protection
Why you should regularly meet with financial advisors to revisit your estate plan and accommodate any changes in your life or tax laws
And more

Connect with John and Michael Parise:

The Purpose of a Purpose Trust with David Warren (Ep. 127)

By thetruthaboutwealth | July 31, 2024

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

Take advantage of the full potential of your estate planning strategy by learning about purpose trusts. This episode, featuring David Warren from Bridgeford Trust, dives deep into innovative ways to protect your wealth for generations.

John and Michael Parise bring back David, co-founder and chairman of Bridgeford Trust Company, to explore the innovative concept of a purpose trust – an underutilized yet powerful tool for estate planning that can provide asset protection, perpetuate family values, and even accommodate unique needs like cryogenics.

Tune in as this conversation may help you transform your approach to asset protection and long-term financial planning!

John, Michael, and David discuss:

An introduction to the purpose trust: its definition and primary functions
Real-world examples, including charitable purposes and maintaining lifelong commitments such as taking care of pets or holding a family property
The benefits of purpose trusts over traditional trusts, focusing on asset protection and longevity
How South Dakota’s favorable trust laws make it an ideal jurisdiction for establishing these trusts
And more!

Resources:

Connect with David Warren:

Connect with John and Michael Parise:

About Our Guest:

David Warren is the co-founder and chairman of the Board of Bridgeford Trust Company. With over 20 years of experience as an attorney in the financial services industry, David has a wealth of knowledge on working with ultra-high-net-worth families across the nation and around the world. As a leader at Bridgeford Trust Company, he shapes the strategic growth and brand development. Outside of his roles at Bridgeford, David often speaks throughout the country and around the world on modern and progressive U.S. trust law, addressing several professional organizations and audiences each year.

Copper Beech’s Philosophy & Vision (Ep. 126)

By thetruthaboutwealth | July 17, 2024

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

Are you certain your family’s financial future is secure for generations to come?

Understanding the true value of your wealth goes beyond numbers; it’s about creating a lasting legacy.

Today on The Truth About Wealth, John and Michael Parise revisit the foundation of Copper Beech Financial Group, explore the unique concept of a family CFO, and discuss strategies to effectively preserve and transfer wealth from the first to the third generation for 100-year families.

Tune in and gain insights into their holistic approach, which incorporates financial planning, education, and maintaining family values to ensure long-term prosperity and unity.

John and Michael cover:

The evolution and vision behind Copper Beech Financial Group
The role and significance of a family CFO
Creating 100-year family plans and the importance of generational involvement
Using legacy videos to bridge value gaps between generations
And more!

Connect with John and Michael Parise:

Hiring Leadership With Purpose Featuring Max Hansen (Ep. 125)

By thetruthaboutwealth | April 17, 2024

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

Do you need help to hire and retain top talent for your business?

In this episode, John and Michael Parise are joined by Max Hansen, CEO and co-founder of Y Scouts, the first-ever purpose-based leadership search firm. Together, they dive into the importance of hiring with purpose and discuss strategies for recruiting and retaining top talent to accelerate business growth and success.

From aligning values to developing key leaders, they also share valuable insights on how businesses can unlock their full potential through strategic hiring practices.

Talking points include:

The concept of Hiring on Purpose and its impact on business success
Challenges faced by privately held companies in succession planning and talent retention
Strategies for developing a solid management team to increase company value
Balancing the need for outside talent with family involvement in closely held businesses
And more!

Resources:

“Hiring On Purpose” by Max Hansen and Brian Mohr

Connect with Max Hansen:

Connect with John and Michael Parise:

About Our Guest:

Max Hansen, co-founder and COO of Y Scouts dedicated the last two decades to providing the best hiring practices in leadership search and consulting. Max was fortunate that his first job after graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree from Northern Arizona in Business Administration was with the Fortune 50 Recruiting firm Allegis Group / Aerotek. This experience gave him a solid foundation for understanding best-in-class business systems and selection processes.

In January of 2002, Max founded his first recruiting/search firm, Job Brokers, Inc. Together with his team, they went on to hire more than 30,000 people across a wide swath of industries including engineering, manufacturing, education, healthcare, distribution, mining, finance, technology, and apparel. They proudly grew their annual revenues to over $35 million and expanded into other divisions and brands. The most notable being Y Scouts in 2012.

Preparing Tax Strategies for the Upcoming Tax Provision Changes (Ep. 124)

By thetruthaboutwealth | April 3, 2024

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

How do the changing tax provisions impact your financial planning?

Today on The Truth About Wealth, John and Michael Parise discuss the implications of the expiring tax provisions from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. They underscore the necessity of proactive tax planning and the importance of consulting with advisors to maximize benefits before these provisions lapse.

Their conversation spans estate planning, business tax laws, individual tax brackets, and charitable planning, highlighting the urgency for families to strategize for their financial future in light of these changes.

Talking points include:

Expiring tax provisions from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
The need for proactive tax planning
What tax provisions are expiring, and what provisions are permanent
Considerations in estate planning
Updates on business tax laws
Changes in individual income tax brackets
Strategies for charitable planning
And more!

Resources:

Connect with John and Michael Parise:

Increasing Tax Efficiency and Asset Protection Through MSOs with Doug Dickey (Ep. 123)

By thetruthaboutwealth | March 20, 2024

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Spotify | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

How can Management Services Organizations (MSOs) enhance tax efficiency and asset protection for businesses?

Today on The Truth About Wealth, John and Michael Parise welcome back Doug Dickey, CPA, CEPA, Manager, and Shareholder at DRDA, PLLC, for a conversation about the intricacies of management services organizations (MSOs).

Doug provides a comprehensive explanation of MSOs, detailing their origins in asset protection and their evolution to include tax efficiency and increased purchasing power. He also emphasizes the importance of proper entity structuring to safeguard assets and avoid piercing the corporate veil.

Key points include:

What are Management Services Organizations (MSOs)
The use of MSOs in tax efficiency and asset protection
IRS’s perspective on MSOs and creative ways clients can use MSOs for tax and cash flow advantages
Advantages of using a C corporation structure for real estate ownership
The importance of working with the right team
Estate planning concepts and transfer of wealth for multiple generations using C corporations
And more!

Resources:

Is a C Corporation Right for You? with Doug Dickey (Ep. 122)

Connect with Doug Dickey:

Connect with John and Michael Parise: