EnRich Your Life

In this episode of Enrich Your Life, host Rich Leimgruber sits down with Julia Fuentes, a Financial Planning and Coaching Strategist at Vanguard with over 20 years of experience in financial services. They break down the complex world of Roth conversions, exploring when it makes sense to pay taxes now versus later in retirement. Julia shares her personal journey into investing, starting with her first Roth IRA as a high school student, and walks listeners through the strategic advantages of Roth accounts, including tax-free growth, inheritance benefits, and no required minimum distributions. The conversation covers essential topics like the backdoor Roth strategy, the pro-rata rule pitfalls, and Vanguard's break-even tax rate method for determining optimal conversion timing. Whether you're just starting your career or planning for retirement, this episode provides practical insights into maximizing your tax efficiency and leaving a tax-free legacy.

Key Highlights

1.  The Inheritance Game-Changer: Understanding the 10-Year Rule
2. The Pro-Rata Rule Trap: How to prevent your Backdoor Roth Strategy from Backfiring
3. Strategic Timing: When Market Downturns Create Conversion Opportunities

Filmed and recorded at Studio on the Avenue/LMC Media
Mamaroneck, NY
https://lmcmedia.org/
Produced and Edited by Vekterly
https://www.vekterly.com/

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice, a recommendation for any specific investment, strategy, or financial decision, or legal advice. By engaging with this material, you acknowledge and agree with its intended purpose. Any examples provided are hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. Neither Rich Leimgruber, the EnRich Your Life Podcast, nor its representatives are advising or suggesting any specific action or decision. Before making any financial, legal, or tax decisions, individuals should consult their own financial advisor, accountant, legal professional, or other qualified professional before making financial decisions. All opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not reflect the views of any affiliated financial institutions. The views shared may not be suitable for every individual or situation. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and all investments carry risk. Please note that any strategies discussed may not be suitable for all investors, and the appropriateness of any specific investment or strategy will depend on individual circumstances.

Host Richard Leimgruber sits down with Stephanie Bellofatto, Director of Commercial and Residential Accounts at ServPro of Putnam County and Northwest Southeast Duchess County, to discuss a critical but often overlooked aspect of your life,  emergency preparedness. In this conversation, Stephanie reveals why high-net-worth homeowners and business owners frequently neglect disaster planning until it's too late, and introduces ServPro's complimentary Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) program

Discover the most common oversight homeowners make (hint: it involves utility shutoffs), learn why taking time to prepare now dramatically reduces chaos later, and understand how proper documentation can expedite insurance claims after fire, water, or mold damage. Whether you're protecting a multi-million dollar estate or a family business, this episode offers actionable strategies to safeguard your most valuable assets.

Filmed and recorded at Studio on the Avenue/LMC Media
Mamaroneck, NY
https://lmcmedia.org/
Produced and Edited by Vekterly
https://www.vekterly.com/

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice, a recommendation for any specific investment, strategy, or financial decision, or legal advice. By engaging with this material, you acknowledge and agree with its intended purpose. Any examples provided are hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. Neither Rich Leimgruber, the EnRich Your Life Podcast, nor its representatives are advising or suggesting any specific action or decision. Before making any financial, legal, or tax decisions, individuals should consult their own financial advisor, accountant, legal professional, or other qualified professional before making financial decisions. All opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not reflect the views of any affiliated financial institutions. The views shared may not be suitable for every individual or situation. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and all investments carry risk. Please note that any strategies discussed may not be suitable for all investors, and the appropriateness of any specific investment or strategy will depend on individual circumstances.

In this episode of the EnRich Your Life podcast, host Rich Leimgruber sits down with Marcel Benjamin, Fixed Income Strategist at State Street Investment Management, to discuss the essential shift in your financial strategy as you move from your wealth accumulation (growth) phase into retirement (income).
Have you spent years building up your savings and are now wondering how to turn that nest egg into a reliable paycheck? This episode is for you!

Marcel breaks down the role of bonds and introduces an innovative approach to managing your income portfolio: bond ladder Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)

What You'll Learn:

Bonds Made Simple: Get a clear, layman's explanation of what a bond is and how it differs from owning stocks.

The Power of Bond Ladders: Discover how staggering the maturity dates of your bonds (a "bond ladder") can help reduce the risk of having to reinvest all your money when interest rates are low (reinvestment risk).

A Modern Solution: ETF Bond Ladders: Learn about using low-cost, actively managed ETFs that are specifically designed to mature like individual bonds. This approach offers the diversification and efficiency of ETFs, avoiding the high costs and lack of transparency often found when trading individual bonds.

Matching Your Money to Your Life: Understand how these "stated maturity" ETFs can be used for Asset-Liability Matching (ALM), tips on aligning your investments with future cash needs, like a child's college tuition, buying a second home, or simply creating a planned retirement income stream.

Corporate vs. Municipal Bonds: Explore the trade-offs between higher-yielding corporate bonds and the potential tax benefits of state and local municipal bonds.

Whether you're looking to create a more tax-aware income stream or simply seeking a different path for a portion of your wealth, this episode is full of strategic insights you can use immediately.

Filmed and recorded at Studio on the Avenue/LMC Media
Mamaroneck, NY
https://lmcmedia.org/
Produced and Edited by Vekterly
https://www.vekterly.com/

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice, a recommendation for any specific investment, strategy, or financial decision, or legal advice. By engaging with this material, you acknowledge and agree with its intended purpose. Any examples provided are hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. Neither Rich Leimgruber, the EnRich Your Life Podcast, nor its representatives are advising or suggesting any specific action or decision. Before making any financial, legal, or tax decisions, individuals should consult their own financial advisor, accountant, legal professional, or other qualified professional before making financial decisions. All opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not reflect the views of any affiliated financial institutions. The views shared may not be suitable for every individual or situation. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and all investments carry risk. Please note that any strategies discussed may not be suitable for all investors, and the appropriateness of any specific investment or strategy will depend on individual circumstances.

When it comes to preserving wealth, minimizing taxes, and protecting your family’s future, advanced estate planning can make all the difference. In this episode of EnRich Your Life, host Rich Leimgruber sits down with Kylan Johnson, founder of Hudson Valley Estate Planning, to unpack real-world strategies for high-net-worth families and business owners.

They discuss how trusts, tax laws, and proper planning can prevent unnecessary losses, and why the right moves today can protect generations to come. Whether you’re caring for aging parents, planning for a second marriage, or managing a growing estate, this episode delivers clear, practical guidance you can actually use.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS:
• How to structure your estate to potentially reduce federal and state estate taxes
• The role of irrevocable trusts, life insurance trusts, and dynasty trusts in long-term wealth protection
• Planning for aging parents or special needs children without losing government benefits
• Common estate planning mistakes, and how to prevent them before it’s too late

Filmed and recorded at Studio on the Avenue/LMC Media
Mamaroneck, NY
https://lmcmedia.org/
Produced and Edited by Vekterly
https://www.vekterly.com/

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice, a recommendation for any specific investment, strategy, or financial decision, or legal advice. By engaging with this material, you acknowledge and agree with its intended purpose. Any examples provided are hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. Neither Rich Leimgruber, the EnRich Your Life Podcast, nor its representatives are advising or suggesting any specific action or decision. Before making any financial, legal, or tax decisions, individuals should consult their own financial advisor, accountant, legal professional, or other qualified professional before making financial decisions. All opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not reflect the views of any affiliated financial institutions. The views shared may not be suitable for every individual or situation. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and all investments carry risk. Please note that any strategies discussed may not be suitable for all investors, and the appropriateness of any specific investment or strategy will depend on individual circumstances.

In this episode of EnRich Your Life, host Richard Leimgruber dives into the power of goal setting, how clarity, mindset, and emotional intelligence work together to shape financial and personal success. Joined by Kristin Kenney, founder of High Gear Advisors and a Harvard-certified expert in negotiation and conflict resolution, they explore how aligning your goals with your emotions and values can unlock progress even during life’s toughest transitions.

Key Highlights:

• Why goal-based planning works: Connects your financial goals with emotional clarity and long-term direction
• The mindset shift: Moving from emotional decision-making to strategic thinking.
• Common roadblocks: Time, avoidance, and fear of change, and how to overcome them.
• Emotional intelligence: How awareness of your feelings improves decision-making.

Filmed and recorded at Studio on the Avenue/LMC Media
Mamaroneck, NY
https://lmcmedia.org/
Produced and Edited by Vekterly
https://www.vekterly.com/

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice, a recommendation for any specific investment, strategy, or financial decision, or legal advice. By engaging with this material, you acknowledge and agree with its intended purpose. Any examples provided are hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. Neither Rich Leimgruber, the EnRich Your Life Podcast, nor its representatives are advising or suggesting any specific action or decision. Before making any financial, legal, or tax decisions, individuals should consult their own financial advisor, accountant, legal professional, or other qualified professional before making financial decisions. All opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not reflect the views of any affiliated financial institutions. The views shared may not be suitable for every individual or situation. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and all investments carry risk. Please note that any strategies discussed may not be suitable for all investors, and the appropriateness of any specific investment or strategy will depend on individual circumstances.

Episode Description:

Navigating the complexities of Medicare can be overwhelming, but this episode simplifies the process for those turning 65 or assisting a loved one. Host, Rich Leimgruber, speaks with certified Medicare insurance professionals Traci O'Brien, and Giovanna Sidoti, Medicare Agent, who break down the program's intricacies, from enrollment pitfalls to hidden costs. They explain why Medicare coverage is highly personal and not a one-size-fits-all solution, highlighting how different choices can have lasting consequences on both health and finances.

Key Highlights:

1. Crucial Enrollment Deadlines: Learn about the Initial Enrollment Period around your 65th birthday and the serious consequences of missing it.
2. Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage: Get a clear breakdown of the two primary paths to supplement Original Medicare.
3. The Value of an Expert Broker: Find out why working with a local, licensed insurance agent costs you nothing extra.
4. Protecting Against Scams: Learn the biggest red flags and how having an agent can help protect you or rectify the situation if you are targeted.

Filmed and recorded at Studio on the Avenue/LMC Media
Mamaroneck, NY
https://lmcmedia.org/
Produced and Edited by Vekterly
https://www.vekterly.com/

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice, a recommendation for any specific investment, strategy, or financial decision, or legal advice. By engaging with this material, you acknowledge and agree with its intended purpose. Any examples provided are hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. Neither Rich Leimgruber, the EnRich Your Life Podcast, nor its representatives are advising or suggesting any specific action or decision. Before making any financial, legal, or tax decisions, individuals should consult their own financial advisor, accountant, legal professional, or other qualified professional before making financial decisions. All opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not reflect the views of any affiliated financial institutions. The views shared may not be suitable for every individual or situation. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and all investments carry risk. Please note that any strategies discussed may not be suitable for all investors, and the appropriateness of any specific investment or strategy will depend on individual circumstances.

Many parents and grandparents misunderstand how 529 plans work. In this episode, Rich Leimgruber talks with Kris Adrian, National 529 Specialist at JP Morgan, to clear up myths and explain how families can use these plans to fund education in a tax-efficient way.

Our conversation covers how 529s have expanded beyond traditional college savings, what recent rule changes mean, and why every family should understand their options.

Key Highlights:

• 529 flexibility: Funds cover college, trade school, apprenticeship programs, and can transfer tax-free to siblings, cousins, or even future grandchildren.
• New rules that allow up to $35,000 of leftover funds to roll into a Roth IRA under Secure Act 2.0.
• FAFSA benefits: Parent-owned 529s count at 5.64% in the formula, while grandparent-owned plans now count at 0%.
• Estate strategy: Family Members can gift up to $190,000 (married) in a lump sum using the five-year election, while keeping control of the account.

This episode gives you the facts you need to avoid costly mistakes, take advantage of tax benefits, and plan smarter for your family’s future.

Filmed and recorded at Studio on the Avenue/LMC Media
Mamaroneck, NY
https://lmcmedia.org/
Produced and Edited by Vekterly
https://www.vekterly.com/

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice, a recommendation for any specific investment, strategy, or financial decision, or legal advice. By engaging with this material, you acknowledge and agree with its intended purpose. Any examples provided are hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. Neither Rich Leimgruber, the EnRich Your Life Podcast, nor its representatives are advising or suggesting any specific action or decision. Before making any financial, legal, or tax decisions, individuals should consult their own financial advisor, accountant, legal professional, or other qualified professional before making financial decisions. All opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not reflect the views of any affiliated financial institutions. The views shared may not be suitable for every individual or situation. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and all investments carry risk. Please note that any strategies discussed may not be suitable for all investors, and the appropriateness of any specific investment or strategy will depend on individual circumstances.

Crypto often feels like hype, headlines, and confusion. In this episode of EnRich Your Life, Rich sits down with Howie Levine of Bitwise to break it down in plain language, what crypto actually is, how blockchain works, and why Bitcoin, stablecoins, and ETFs are changing the investment landscape.

Whether you’re crypto curious, skeptical, or simply want to understand how it might fit into a portfolio, this conversation cuts through the noise and focuses on what matters.

Key Highlights:

• Blockchain technology and crypto assets broken down
• How stablecoins differ from Bitcoin
• The role of ETFs in making crypto more accessible
• Real-world examples of blockchain in action (DMV, real estate deeds)
• How regulation is shaping the future: GENIUS Act, CLARITY Act, and Anti-CBDC

Disclosures:

*BASED ON OTCMARKETS.COM SHOWING THE TWO LARGEST CRYPTO INDEX FUNDS AS OF 8/12/2025​

https://link.edgepilot.com/s/aa1ce8b0/Qk-rF3CAfUCG1ECwkGGACA?u=https://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/GDLC/quote 

https://link.edgepilot.com/s/68763852/qNpFMq28zUueE1ta8ZJk2g?u=https://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/BITW/quote

**Certain of the Fund’s investments may be subject to the risks associated with investing in crypto assets, including cryptocurrencies and crypto tokens. Because crypto assets are a new technological innovation with a limited history, they are a highly speculative asset. Future regulatory actions or policies may limit actions that can be taken with regard to crypto assets. The price of a crypto asset may be impacted by the transactions of a small number of holders of such crypto asset. Crypto assets may decline in popularity, acceptance or use, which may impact their price.

***As per IMF Connect Article dated 5/23/25: https://www.imfconnect.org/content/dam/imf/News%20and%20Generic%20Content/GMM/Special%20Features/Crypto%20Assets%20Monitor.pdf

Filmed and recorded at Studio on the Avenue/LMC Media
Mamaroneck, NY
https://lmcmedia.org/
Produced and Edited by Vekterly
https://www.vekterly.com/

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice, a recommendation for any specific investment, strategy, or financial decision, or legal advice. By engaging with this material, you acknowledge and agree with its intended purpose. Any examples provided are hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. Neither Rich Leimgruber, the EnRich Your Life Podcast, nor its representatives are advising or suggesting any specific action or decision. Before making any financial, legal, or tax decisions, individuals should consult their own financial advisor, accountant, legal professional, or other qualified professional before making financial decisions. All opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not reflect the views of any affiliated financial institutions. The views shared may not be suitable for every individual or situation. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and all investments carry risk. Please note that any strategies discussed may not be suitable for all investors, and the appropriateness of any specific investment or strategy will depend on individual circumstances.

We’re taking a short summer break! ☀️

No new episodes in August, but Rich will be back in September with fresh conversations on everything from Bitcoin and 529 plans to Medicare enrollment and setting wealth goals with clarity.

He’s heading to the beach for some much-needed rest, and hopes you’re getting in some self-care too.

Until then, catch up on any episodes you’ve missed. See you soon.  

Filmed and recorded at Studio on the Avenue/LMC Media
Mamaroneck, NY
https://lmcmedia.org/
Produced and Edited by Vekterly
https://www.vekterly.com/

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice, a recommendation for any specific investment, strategy, or financial decision, or legal advice. By engaging with this material, you acknowledge and agree with its intended purpose. Any examples provided are hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. Neither Rich Leimgruber, the EnRich Your Life Podcast, nor its representatives are advising or suggesting any specific action or decision. Before making any financial, legal, or tax decisions, individuals should consult their own financial advisor, accountant, legal professional, or other qualified professional before making financial decisions. All opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not reflect the views of any affiliated financial institutions. The views shared may not be suitable for every individual or situation. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and all investments carry risk. Please note that any strategies discussed may not be suitable for all investors, and the appropriateness of any specific investment or strategy will depend on individual circumstances.

In Part 2 of this week’s conversation, we unpack CLOs, Collateralized Loan Obligations, and why they’ve quietly become a go-to income strategy for banks, asset managers, and sophisticated investors.

Rich talks with Shiloh Bates of Flat Rock Global about how CLOs are built, who invests in them, and how you can tap into higher-yielding opportunities with decades of strong performance and surprisingly low default rates.

If you want to understand how smart money earns steady returns through structured credit, this episode is for you.

Episode Key Highlights:
•What is a CLO?
•CLO equity vs. CLO debt
•Who should consider CLOs

Want to know more about our Guest?

Shiloh Bates
Chief Investment Officer
Flat Rock Global
https://flatrockglobal.com/

Filmed and recorded at Studio on the Avenue/LMC Media
Mamaroneck, NY
https://lmcmedia.org/
Produced and Edited by Vekterly
https://www.vekterly.com/

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice, a recommendation for any specific investment, strategy, or financial decision, or legal advice. By engaging with this material, you acknowledge and agree with its intended purpose. Any examples provided are hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. Neither Rich Leimgruber, the EnRich Your Life Podcast, nor its representatives are advising or suggesting any specific action or decision. Before making any financial, legal, or tax decisions, individuals should consult their own financial advisor, accountant, legal professional, or other qualified professional before making financial decisions. All opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not reflect the views of any affiliated financial institutions. The views shared may not be suitable for every individual or situation. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and all investments carry risk. Please note that any strategies discussed may not be suitable for all investors, and the appropriateness of any specific investment or strategy will depend on individual circumstances.