Average Joe Finances

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Join us on Average Joe Finances as our guest Freddie Rappina, a retired police officer turned wealth advisor, discusses his journey from Long Island to Virginia and now Florida, and shares insights into wealth building strategies. He emphasizes the difference between 'checkers' and 'chess' approaches to personal finance, the importance of having an evidence-based mindset, leveraging debt for wealth creation, understanding compound interest limitations, and the critical role of taxes and a robust financial team in achieving financial success.

In this episode:

• Discover the importance of transitioning from basic financial strategies ("checkers") to more advanced tactics ("chess") in wealth management.
• Understand how leveraging debt can be a powerful tool, but only when used judiciously.
• Learn the significance of tailoring investment strategies to individual needs. 
• Grasp the concept of building a reliable team to support your financial journey. 
• And so much more!

Key Moments:

00:03:42 Meet Freddie Rapina: From Police Officer to Wealth Advisor

00:08:04 The Checkers vs. Chess Analogy in Finance

00:12:56 Leveraging Debt for Wealth Building

00:16:36 Real Estate Investment Strategies

00:20:27 Personal Decision: Home Ownership vs. Investment

00:21:32 Leverage and Risk in Real Estate

00:23:24 Preparing for Market Opportunities

00:25:52 Effective Marketing Strategies

00:27:38 Starting in Real Estate Investing

00:31:26 Checkers vs. Chess: Investment Strategies

00:33:54 Final Round: Lessons and Tips

00:34:55 Building Wealth Through Taxes

00:39:56 Closing Thoughts and Resources

Find Freddie Rappina on:

Websites: 

https://freddierappina.com/

https://playingthewealthgame.com/

https://www.optafinancial.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/freddie-rappina/

Average Joe Finances®

All of our social media links and more: https://averagejoefinances.com/links

About Mike: https://mikecavaggioni.com

About Tawnya: https://www.themoneylifecoach.com/

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*DISCLAIMER* https://averagejoefinances.com/disclaimer

See our full episode transcripts here: https://podcast.averagejoefinances.com/episodes

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Join us on Average Joe Finances as our guest Weston Zimmerman, the co-founder and CEO of SynkedUp, a landscaping business management software - shares his journey from a teen working for a landscaping company in Pennsylvania to becoming the CEO of an award-winning software company. He discusses the challenges contractors face in managing operations and finances and how SynkedUp helps solve these problems with its comprehensive software solution. 

In this episode:

• Discover the importance of creating efficient systems for business management, to ensure accurate cost estimation and resource management for sustained profitability.
• Understand the shift in mindset required to transition from employee to business owner, and how focusing on adding value to the company can drive personal and professional growth.
• Gain insight into the significance of cash flow management
• Explore how effective leadership, communication, and fostering a team-oriented culture can lead to a more innovative and problem-solving workforce, key to long-term business success.
• And so much more!

Key Moments:

00:02:42 Weston's Journey into Landscaping
00:03:49 The Birth of SyncedUp
00:05:44 Challenges and Growth of SyncedUp
00:12:42 Understanding the Profit Triangle
00:15:52 Real-Time Job Costing and Feedback
00:18:35 Weston's Entrepreneurial Journey
00:22:45 Personal Journey into Financial Coaching
00:24:06 Early Career and Financial Realizations
00:25:02 Pivotal Advice from a CEO
00:26:17 Adding Value and Growing Income
00:27:30 Leadership and Problem-Solving Mindset
00:30:41 Biggest Financial Mistake
00:32:24 Learning and Growth in Business
00:36:51 Recommended Books and Resources
00:41:13 Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom
00:44:10 Closing Remarks and Podcast Outro

Find Weston Zimmerman on:

Website: www.synkedup.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/synkedup/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/synkedup/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/weston-zimmerman-900523122/

Average Joe Finances®

All of our social media links and more: https://averagejoefinances.com/links

About Mike: https://mikecavaggioni.com

About Tawnya: https://www.themoneylifecoach.com/

Show Notes add-on continued here: https://averagejoefinances.com/show-notes/

*DISCLAIMER* https://averagejoefinances.com/disclaimer

See our full episode transcripts here: https://podcast.averagejoefinances.com/episodes

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Join us on Average Joe Finances as our guest Chad Olivier shares his extensive experience and knowledge in financial planning since 1996. Chad discusses his journey from selling tax-free bonds to founding the Olivier Group in 2002, where he now specializes in individual investments and certified exit planning for small business owners.

In this episode:

• Grasp the significance of evolving from a specialized financial service, like selling tax-free bonds, to establishing a comprehensive financial planning firm.
• Recognize the critical role of exit planning as an essential component of a business owner's financial strategy, ensuring maximum value extraction.
• Comprehend the importance of maintaining a business as a separate entity from personal finances to create a sellable asset.
• Realize the necessity of prudent debt management and the delicate balance between scaling and stabilizing a business.
• And so much more!

Key Moments:

00:01:07 Meet Chad Olivier: Financial Planning Expert

00:02:41 Chad's Journey into Financial Services

00:03:23 The Niche of Exit Planning

00:06:55 Building a Successful Financial Firm

00:11:17 Mentorship and Continuous Learning

00:16:00 Challenges and Advice for Business Owners

00:20:15 The Evolution of Financial Planning

00:22:19 The Role of AI in Wealth Management

00:24:14 The Importance of Expert Advice

00:25:59 Building a Legacy: Strategies for Business Owners

00:28:08 The Challenges of Running a Business

00:30:03 Final Round: Lessons and Tips

00:36:14 Recommended Books and Podcasts

00:38:10 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Find Chad Olivier on:

Website: www.oliviergroup.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theoliviergroup/

X: https://x.com/TheOlivierGroup

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/chad-olivier-70b29621/

Average Joe Finances®

All of our social media links and more: https://averagejoefinances.com/links

About Mike: https://mikecavaggioni.com

About Tawnya: https://www.themoneylifecoach.com/

Show Notes add-on continued here: https://averagejoefinances.com/show-notes/

*DISCLAIMER* https://averagejoefinances.com/disclaimer

See our full episode transcripts here: https://podcast.averagejoefinances.com/episodes

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Join us on Average Joe Finances as our guest David Delisle, discuss the importance of financial literacy for both kids and adults, focusing on David's journey as a 'finance nerd' from a young age and his passion for teaching financial education through his children's book, a graphic novel. He also shares the significance of understanding personal finance from early stages, the concept of 'awesome stuff' which helps identify what truly brings joy, and shifting from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset.

In this episode:

• Recognize the importance of teaching kids to align their financial choices with their values.
• Learn how to encourage parents to break this cycle by discussing money openly with their children and helping them identify what genuinely brings them joy.
• Embrace the 'Awesome Stuff' Philosophy where this approach centers on helping both kids and adults identify their "awesome stuff"—the things that truly make them happy.
• Understand the connection between giving and feeling financially abundant. By practicing generosity, individuals can shift their mindset from scarcity to abundance, fostering a healthier relationship with money.
• And so much more!

Key Moments:

00:03:36 Introducing David Delisle

00:04:41 David's Background and Passion for Financial Literacy

00:06:34 The Importance of Financial Literacy for Kids

00:12:18 Living a Rich Life and Mindset Shifts

00:20:49 Quality Time and Financial Decisions

00:24:11 From Budgeting to an Abundance Mindset

00:24:36 Shifting Mindsets: From Scarcity to Abundance

00:26:14 The Power of Giving: Financial and Emotional Benefits

00:28:07 Teaching Kids About Value and Joy

00:35:10 Final Round: Financial Mistakes and Lessons

00:42:43 David's Book and Final Thoughts

Find David Delisle on:

Website: www.thefinancialphysician.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/financialphysician

Average Joe Finances®

All of our social media links and more: https://averagejoefinances.com/links

About Mike: https://mikecavaggioni.com

About Tawnya: https://www.themoneylifecoach.com/

Show Notes add-on continued here: https://averagejoefinances.com/show-notes/

*DISCLAIMER* https://averagejoefinances.com/disclaimer

See our full episode transcripts here: https://podcast.averagejoefinances.com/episodes

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Join us on Average Joe Finance hosts Mike Cavaggioni and Tanya discuss recent events, focusing on the overdramatized stock market crash in early August, investment strategies for market dips, the evolving real estate market and its challenges, and the importance of mindful financial planning. The conversation also touches on practical financial advice such as adhering to budget percentages and the necessity of having financial mentors or advisors.

In this episode:

• Learn about the importance of understanding that market dips are often temporary and can present buying opportunities rather than reasons to panic.
• Discover the power of long-term investment strategies, even when short-term market movements cause concern.
• Understand the complexities of the current real estate market, including rising interest rates and insurance costs, and offers advice on how to navigate these challenges.
• Explore the importance of financial prudence, particularly ensuring that housing expenses don't exceed 30% of income, regardless of whether you're renting or buying.
• And so much more!

Key Moments:

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:42 Discussing the Stock Market Crash

03:58 Real Estate Market Insights

08:00 Financial Advice and Personal Experiences

14:38 The Importance of Financial Planning

24:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Average Joe Finances®

All of our social media links and more: https://averagejoefinances.com/links

About Mike: https://mikecavaggioni.com

About Tawnya: https://www.themoneylifecoach.com/

Show Notes add-on continued here: https://averagejoefinances.com/show-notes/

*DISCLAIMER* https://averagejoefinances.com/disclaimer

See our full episode transcripts here: https://podcast.averagejoefinances.com/episodes

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Join us on Average Joe Finances as our guest Lou Scatigna, a seasoned financial advisor, author, and radio show host, shares his extensive experience in financial planning, discussing the importance of financial literacy, budgeting, and prudent investing. He highlights the parallels between health and financial habits, the impact of car and housing expenses on financial well-being, and explains the potential dangers of hyperinflation.

In this episode:

• Recognize the critical nature of establishing an emergency fund. Saving three to six months’ worth of living expenses to safeguard against unexpected financial crises.
• Embrace Living Below Your Means. Advocate for a lifestyle where you spend less than you earn.
• Appreciate the Power of Budgeting. A spending plan is crucial for maintaining control over personal finances.
• Comprehend the Impact of Inflation and Debt, which could lead to economic challenges such as hyperinflation. Investing in hard assets like real estate and precious metals is a good option as protection against these risks.
• And so much more!

Key Moments:

00:00:00 Post-Interview Reflections

00:03:20 Meet Lou Scatigna

00:04:09 Lou's Financial Philosophy

00:05:37 The Dangers of Debt

00:09:10 Car Buying Mistakes

00:11:11 Housing and Financial Responsibility

00:18:45 Retirement Challenges

00:21:25 Inflation and Economic Concerns

00:26:40 Personal Investment Strategies

00:27:23 Impact of Washington on Finances

00:28:08 Precious Metals as a Hedge Against Inflation

00:29:49 The Value of Silver

00:32:47 Hyperinflation and Its Consequences

00:36:17 Lessons Learned in Finance

00:39:40 The Importance of Financial Education

00:41:52 Getting Started in Finance

00:44:49 Recommended Financial Resources

00:46:35 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Find Lou Scatigna on:

Website: www.thefinancialphysician.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/financialphysician

Average Joe Finances®

All of our social media links and more: https://averagejoefinances.com/links

About Mike: https://mikecavaggioni.com

About Tawnya: https://www.themoneylifecoach.com/

Show Notes add-on continued here: https://averagejoefinances.com/show-notes/

*DISCLAIMER* https://averagejoefinances.com/disclaimer

See our full episode transcripts here: https://podcast.averagejoefinances.com/episodes

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Join us on Average Joe Finances as our guest Jason VanDevere shares about his journey from working in a family car dealership to starting his own successful e-commerce business, 'Goal Crazy,' which includes a specialized planner and coaching programs.

In this episode:

• Discover the power of pursuing your passion even when it means stepping away from a secure career path.
• Understand the Importance of comprehensive goal setting, offering tools to help you assess your life, set meaningful goals, and break them down into daily actions.
• Recognize the need for strategic financial stability as it underscores the significance of building a stable financial foundation before diving into entrepreneurship.
• Grasp the essence of work-life balance by aligning your business goals with your life aspirations to ensure that your work contributes to your overall well-being.
• And so much more!

Key Moments:

00:01:02 Meet Jason Vanderveer

00:01:38 Jason's Entrepreneurial Journey

00:03:07 The Birth of Goal Crazy Planners

00:06:16 Challenges and Success in E-commerce

00:12:38 The Importance of Goal Setting

00:21:23 Real Estate Ventures

00:27:12 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Family Life

00:28:01 Defining Your Ideal Lifestyle

00:28:14 Using Business as a Vehicle for Dreams

00:29:16 The Journey and Obstacles

00:29:52 Balancing Work and Life

00:31:29 Daily Dreaming and Vision Boards

00:33:23 Finding Fulfillment Beyond Success

00:38:26 The Final Round: Lessons and Tips

00:48:01 Connecting with Jason Vanderveer

Find Jason VanDevere on:

Website: https://goalcrazyplanners.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goal.crazy/

LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/jasonvandevere

Average Joe Finances®

All of our social media links and more: https://averagejoefinances.com/links

About Mike: https://mikecavaggioni.com

About Tawnya: https://www.themoneylifecoach.com/

Show Notes add-on continued here: https://averagejoefinances.com/show-notes/

*DISCLAIMER* https://averagejoefinances.com/disclaimer

See our full episode transcripts here: https://podcast.averagejoefinances.com/episodes

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Join us on Average Joe Finances as our guest Ted Thomas, a seasoned expert in tax defaulted properties and tax lien certificates, shares his journey from being an airline pilot to becoming a successful real estate investor, and how he stumbled upon the lucrative market of tax defaulted properties and tax lien certificates.

In this episode:

• Understand Tax lien certificates as an investment opportunity where you pay the overdue property taxes and earn interest on your investment. If the property owner doesn’t redeem the certificate, you could acquire the property free of liens.
• Get to know how economic downturns, like a recession, can affect investments and the importance of adapting strategies in response to market changes.
• Learn why it’s crucial to educate yourself thoroughly  and understand the investment process to avoid costly mistake before diving into tax lien certificates and tax defaulted properties
• Know the effective strategies for success in tax lien certificates and defaulted properties such as setting a budget, knowing your exit strategy, and avoiding emotional bidding (auction fever).
• And so much more!

Key Moments:

00:00:52 Ted Thomas' Background and Career Journey
00:01:36 Transition to Real Estate and Early Success
00:02:19 Facing Recession and Learning About Foreclosures
00:03:06 Discovering Tax Defaulted Properties
00:04:06 Educating the Audience on Tax Defaulted Properties
00:08:43 Navigating Auctions and Real Estate Strategies
00:13:57 Importance of Education and Avoiding Mistakes
00:19:17 Success Stories and Client Testimonials
00:23:38 Profitable Property Auctions
00:24:23 Understanding Redeemable Deeds
00:25:07 Navigating State-Specific Auction Rules
00:25:56 The Importance of Learning the Business
00:26:11 Success Stories and Strategies
00:27:46 Tax Lien Certificates Explained
00:30:21 Investing with the Government
00:34:10 Final Round: Ted's Insights and Advice
00:40:44 How to Learn More and Get Started
00:43:52 Closing Thoughts and Appreciation

Ted invites you to join his comprehensive six-hour class. Use the code "JOE50" for a discount on this invaluable learning experience. This class is the perfect starting point to learn from one of the industry's best. Visit www.tedthomas.com for more details and to sign up.

Find Ted Thomas on:

Website: https://tedthomas.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ted-Thomas
Tiktok: http://www.tiktok.com/@taxsalesexpert
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TaxAuctionTed
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taxlienauthority

Average Joe Finances®

All of our social media links and more: https://averagejoefinances.com/links
About Mike: https://mikecavaggioni.com
About Tawnya: https://www.themoneylifecoach.com/

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Join us on Average Joe Finances as our guest Brent Kesler shares his journey from being a chiropractor to becoming a financial educator who helps people build, keep, and create wealth through the Infinite Banking Concept. Brent shares his personal success story of paying off nearly a million dollars in debt and emphasizes the importance of taking action, having the right mindset, and utilizing mentors.

In this episode:

• Discover how Infinite Banking uses a specially designed whole life insurance policy to create and build wealth by borrowing against the policy while earning interest.
• Learn about Brent Kessler's transition from a chiropractor to a financial expert who used Infinite Banking to pay off nearly a million dollars in debt in 39 months and founded The Money Multiplier.
• Understand how Infinite Banking can fund personal purchases, real estate investments, and business ventures. 
• Hear real-life success stories of individuals who used Infinite Banking to pay off debts, fund education, and achieve financial freedom.
• And so much more!

Key Moments:

00:01:51 Brent's Journey to Financial Freedom

00:02:53 Discovering the Infinite Banking Concept

00:04:32 Implementing the Concept and Paying Off Debt

00:06:01 Teaching and Spreading the Concept

00:10:57 Infinite Banking in Real Estate

00:12:00 How Infinite Banking Works

00:20:21 Real-Life Examples and Success Stories

00:26:41 Understanding Self-Borrowing for Purchases

00:28:01 Success Stories and Client Experiences

00:29:01 The Importance of Paying Yourself First

00:36:10 Final Round: Personal Insights and Advice

00:47:06 Resources and Closing Remarks

Find Brent Kesler on:

Website: www.themoneymultiplier.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/the.money.multiplier/

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@the.money.multiplier

Average Joe Finances®

All of our social media links and more: https://averagejoefinances.com/links

About Mike: https://mikecavaggioni.com

About Tawnya: https://www.themoneylifecoach.com/

Show Notes add-on continued here: https://averagejoefinances.com/show-notes/

*DISCLAIMER* https://averagejoefinances.com/disclaimer

See our full episode transcripts here: https://podcast.averagejoefinances.com/episodes

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Join us on Average Joe Finances as our guest Nicole Truszkowski shares her extensive experience in real estate, particularly in the luxury market. With over 30 years in the industry, Nicole delves into her transition from sports medicine to real estate, her methods for breaking into high-end markets, and her strategies for maintaining a thriving business. She also discusses her involvement in high-profile transactions, including sales for celebrities like Brad Pitt, and shares valuable tips for aspiring real estate agents.

In this episode:

• Nicole emphasizes building relationships within elite social circles and providing high-touch service and expert knowledge to succeed in high-end real estate.
• Nicole shares her diverse background in sports medicine, business administration, and club management, highlighting how these experiences equipped her with valuable skills for marketing and luxury service in real estate.
• Discover the importance of understanding and adapting to local market nuances, using a calculated approach to study competition and align strategies when moving to a new, affluent market.
• Learn practical advice on financial management, stressing the importance of living within one's means and smartly investing earnings to navigate market fluctuations and ensure business growth.
• And so much more!

Key Moments:

00:01:13 Guest Introduction: Nicole Truskowski

00:01:50 Nicole's Early Career and Transition to Real Estate

00:04:18 Building a Real Estate Career in Sacramento

00:06:10 Transition to Carmel and High-End Real Estate

00:08:21 Challenges and Strategies in High-End Real Estate

00:12:54 Working with Elite Clients

00:17:10 The Realities of High-End Real Estate Transactions

00:22:37 Selling America's Sweetheart's Home

00:23:59 Transitioning to Real Estate Development

00:25:07 Building a High-End Development Team

00:26:58 Challenges in Real Estate Development

00:27:42 Diversification and Financial Strategies

00:29:56 Long-Term Vision and Team Building

00:30:42 Financial Wisdom and Investment Strategies

Find Nicole Truszkowski on:

Website: https://truszkowskifreedman.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.truszkowski/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicole_truszkowski/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletruszkowski/

Average Joe Finances®

All of our social media links and more: https://averagejoefinances.com/links

About Mike: https://mikecavaggioni.com

About Tawnya: https://www.themoneylifecoach.com/

Show Notes add-on continued here: https://averagejoefinances.com/show-notes/

*DISCLAIMER* https://averagejoefinances.com/disclaimer

See our full episode transcripts here: https://podcast.averagejoefinances.com/episodes

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