FIN-LYT by EWA®

By EWA LLCBusiness Investing

FIN-LYT by EWA® episodes

March 07, 2024 Decoding Private Investments: Complexities of Private Equity, Venture Capital, and Real Estate
In this episode of the FIN-LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki, Jamison Smith, and Ben Ruttenberg discuss various types of private investments and their complexities. The realm of private investing has become increasingly accessible to high-net-worth individuals, and it is critically important to do proper due diligence and understand the nuances of these investments.

Matt, Jamison, and Ben dissect the three main categories of private investments: private equity, venture capital, and more localized, mom-and-pop private deals, adding a fourth dimension with real estate syndicates. They provide a comprehensive breakdown of each category, highlighting the differences in strategies, the level of due diligence required, and the varying degrees of regulatory oversight. Venture capital and private equity are contrasted through their investment stages, the nature of the companies they target, and their ultimate goals. practicalities and pitfalls of engaging in private investments. In addition, they discuss the importance of a disciplined approach including critically assessing investor motivations and the potential impact on broader financial plans.

This episode is a resource for anyone looking to navigate the complex landscape of private investing with confidence and caution. It will guide you through the risks, rewards, and realities of this challenging yet potentially rewarding aspect of wealth management.
Additional Content Available on YouTube
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Connect with EWA
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View EWA Disclosures and Firm ADV: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/308977

37 min
February 22, 2024 Revocable and Irrevocable Trusts: Exploring Estate Planning and Tax Efficiency
In this episode of FIN LYT by EWA, hosts Matt Blocki, Ben Ruttenberg, and Chris Pavcic dive into the intricacies of trusts, estate planning, and tax efficiency. They provide valuable insights into the distinctions between revocable and irrevocable trusts and the critical role they play in safeguarding one's financial legacy.

They discuss the benefits of revocable trusts, highlighting their benefits, including control, privacy, and the avoidance of probate. They stress the importance of thorough estate planning, encompassing power of attorneys and living wills, to ensure a smooth transition in cases of incapacitation or passing. Shedding light on irrevocable trusts, Matt, Ben and Chris emphasize asset protection, probate avoidance, and substantial tax benefits as key selling points for irrevocable trusts. The discussion details the significance of considering irrevocable trusts as a strategic financial tool, especially for individuals with substantial assets.

Lastly, looking at current federal estate tax exemption limits, the team details additional strategies such as gifting within annual exclusion limits and spousal lifetime access trusts (SLATs) as methods to mitigate estate tax liabilities.
Additional Content Available on YouTube
⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@FIN-LYTbyEWA?sub_confirmation=1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect with EWA ⁠
https://ewa-llc.com/⁠Follow Us on Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/ewa.llc/
⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/equilibrium-wealth-advisors/⁠ ⁠
https://www.facebook.com/EquilibriumWealthAdvisors/⁠

View EWA Disclosures and Firm ADV: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/308977

41 min
February 15, 2024 Navigating the Crossroads of Entrepreneurship, Family Ties, and Personal Growth
In this special episode of FIN LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki welcomes his lifelong friend, client, and accomplished business owner, Matt White. In this deeply engaging conversation, they delve into Matt White's transformative journey from a finance enthusiast to a technology entrepreneur behind TSI Video, a leader in onboard video surveillance solutions for public transit across North America.

Discover the pivotal moments that shaped TSI Video's trajectory, including the strategic shift from reselling to developing proprietary products and navigating the complex process of business transition from one generation to the next. Matt White shares the invaluable lessons learned from these experiences, emphasizing the critical role of building strong rapport with employees, fostering meaningful relationships with clients and vendors, and the importance of adaptability in business.

Listen as they explore the profound impact of personal relationships on professional success, including Matt's close relationship with his father that evolved through the business's challenges and triumphs, and how these experiences have shaped his approach to leadership and personal growth. Matt also offers insights into managing the delicate balance between professional ambitions and personal life, introducing a refreshing perspective on work-life tension as a positive and necessary force for growth and fulfillment.

This episode is full of personal connection, shared wisdom on navigating business management, personal development, and the art of maintaining focus amidst the allure of new opportunities. It's a must-listen for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and anyone interested in the dynamics of family-run businesses and the pursuit of a balanced, purposeful life.

Additional Content Available on YouTube
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Connect with EWA ⁠
https://ewa-llc.com/⁠Follow Us on Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/ewa.llc/
⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/equilibrium-wealth-advisors/⁠ ⁠
https://www.facebook.com/EquilibriumWealthAdvisors/⁠
View EWA Disclosures and Firm ADV: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/308977
1 hr 19 min
February 08, 2024 5 Missteps to Avoid in Your Financial Plan
In this episode of FIN LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki, Chris Pavcic, and Jamison Smith discuss five crucial things you should avoid in your financial plan and shed light on the potential risks and pitfalls associated with various financial strategies. They draw from real life experiences with clients throughout their careers as advisors.

Included in their list are Initial Public Offerings (IPOs)
likening some IPOs to pump and dump schemes, hedge funds that aim to outperform the market and “indexed universal anything” including annuities and indexed life insurance contracts. Learn more about hidden fees and limitations that can significantly impact your returns and accessibility to capital. They also discuss various tax-related scams and the significance of prudent tax planning, drawing attention to schemes that target unsuspecting taxpayers during filing season.

Join the EWA team as they empower you with the knowledge and insights you need to build a resilient financial plan and make wise investment decisions.
Additional Content Available on YouTube
⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@FIN-LYTbyEWA?sub_confirmation=1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect with EWA ⁠
https://ewa-llc.com/⁠Follow Us on Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/ewa.llc/
⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/equilibrium-wealth-advisors/⁠ ⁠
https://www.facebook.com/EquilibriumWealthAdvisors/⁠
View EWA Disclosures and Firm ADV: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/308977

33 min
February 01, 2024 Master Travel through Points and Miles with Bryce Conway of 10x Travel
In this week’s episode of FIN-LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki welcomes special guest, Bryce Conway, Founder of 10x Travel. Bryce shares invaluable insights and resources for individuals and couples looking to unlock the power of travel using points and miles. Matt and Bryce dive into the following and more in this episode:

• How to identify a starting point for anyone interested in free travel

• How to access 10x Travel's website, where you can access their free course on leveraging points and miles for incredible travel experiences.

• How 10x Travel can help you extract maximum value from your existing rewards points, including Amex points.

• How to utilize 10x Travel's award-winning booking service, available on their website. This service is your key to optimizing your points and miles for various travel bookings, making your dream vacations a reality.

• How to access and explore a wealth of free resources including a Facebook group in which travelers share their experiences

• How to save time and reducing stress when planning your travel

If you're ready to take your travel game to the next level and explore the world using points and miles, this episode is your gateway to a world of adventure and financial savvy. Once you embark on the points and miles journey, there's no turning back. You'll be hooked on a world of limitless possibilities, unforgettable experiences, and financial freedoms.

Additional Content Available on YouTube
⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@FIN-LYTbyEWA?sub_confirmation=1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect with EWA ⁠
https://ewa-llc.com/⁠

Follow Us on Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/ewa.llc/
⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/equilibrium-wealth-advisors/⁠ ⁠
https://www.facebook.com/EquilibriumWealthAdvisors/⁠
View EWA Disclosures and Firm ADV: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/308977
1 hr 6 min
January 18, 2024 Student Loan Strategies: Options for Education Financing , Repayment and Forgiveness
In this week's podcast, Matt Blocki, Chris Pavcic and Jamison Smith provide crucial insights into the world of student loans, catering to both parents preparing to send their kids to college and individuals already grappling with student loan debt. They stress the importance of financial stress tests, akin to those used in home purchases, to help individuals make informed decisions about housing expenses and loan amounts within their financial capacity.
On topic of student loans, they highlight the burden that loans can place on young adults, potentially hindering their financial success. They introduce the "one times your expected income" rule, emphasizing that school loan balances should align with anticipated incomes based on chosen majors.
The episode explores various repayment options, distinguishing between federal and private loans in terms of repayment terms and offering insights into loan refinancing. A significant portion is dedicated to unraveling the intricacies of the Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) and SAVE programs, outlining eligibility criteria and sharing real-life success stories.
Whether you're a parent planning for your child's education or an individual dealing with student loan debt, this podcast equips you with the insights needed to make informed financial decisions.

Additional Content Available on YouTube
⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@FIN-LYTbyEWA?sub_confirmation=1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect with EWA ⁠
https://ewa-llc.com/⁠
Follow Us on Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/ewa.llc/
⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/equilibrium-wealth-advisors/⁠ ⁠
https://www.facebook.com/EquilibriumWealthAdvisors/⁠
View EWA Disclosures and Firm ADV: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/308977
35 min
January 11, 2024 Protecting Your Finances and Data: Cybersecurity Essentials
In this episode of FIN LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki and Jamison Smith dive into the critical topic of cybersecurity. As the digital landscape evolves, so do the threats to our personal and financial information. Matt and Jamison offer insights and advice on how individuals can safeguard themselves proactively and reactively in the digital age.

They discuss the alarming prevalence of cyberattacks in organizations, particularly during the pandemic and stress the importance of staying vigilant and proactive in the face of these threats.

Topics include:
1. Risks of using public Wi-Fi networks and the benefits of personal hotspots
2. The importance of strong, unique passwords with two-factor authentication
3. Recognizing and thwarting phishing attempts
4. Setting up recovery mechanisms for email accounts
5. Cybersecurity insurance programs
And more!
This episode underscores the urgency of being proactive in safeguarding your financial accounts and promptly addressing any security breaches. It also stresses the importance of making informed choices when selecting financial advisors and custodians. with robust cybersecurity measures in place.
Additional Content Available on YouTube
⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@FIN-LYTbyEWA?sub_confirmation=1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect with EWA ⁠
https://ewa-llc.com/⁠Follow Us on Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/ewa.llc/
⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/equilibrium-wealth-advisors/⁠ ⁠
https://www.facebook.com/EquilibriumWealthAdvisors/⁠
View EWA Disclosures and Firm ADV: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/308977

32 min
January 04, 2024 Navigating NIL: Financial Literacy and College Athletics
In this episode of FIN LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki and Ben Ruttenberg discuss the world of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) in college athletics. Ben, a self-professed sports enthusiast, discusses the significant changes in the college athletic landscape due to NIL and its implications for student-athletes' financial literacy.

They explore the origins of NIL and why it was adopted by the NCAA in 2021 and emphasize the opportunities it provides for student-athletes to profit without jeopardizing their eligibility. The conversation explores the financial implications of NIL income, tax considerations, and strategies for managing newfound wealth. They stress the importance of setting aside money for taxes, using separate bank accounts, and considering retirement plans like 401(k)s. Lastly, they dig into how athletes can balance increased social pressures and responsible financial planning.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into the evolving world of NIL and financial literacy in college athletics

Additional Content Available on YouTube
⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@FIN-LYTbyEWA?sub_confirmation=1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
Connect with EWA ⁠
https://ewa-llc.com/⁠Follow Us on Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/ewa.llc/
⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/equilibrium-wealth-advisors/⁠ ⁠
https://www.facebook.com/EquilibriumWealthAdvisors/⁠
View EWA Disclosures and Firm ADV: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/308977

31 min
December 28, 2023 10 Ways to Supercharge Your Financial Plan in 2024
In this episode, Matt Blocki and Jamison Smith discuss the top 10 tips that can impact your financial planning for 2024. With the IRS adjusting its limits to account for inflation, it's essential to stay informed about these changes and how they can affect your financial future.
They discuss 401(k)s and the nuances of the 402(g) and 415(c) limits, Roth IRAs, Social Security tax changes, HSA contribution limits, tax brackets, estate planning, 529 plans, the standard deduction and more!
Matt and Jamison provide practical tips and strategies for optimizing your financial plan, whether you're a high-income earner or looking to secure your family's financial future. Tune in and share this episode with friends and family who want to make the most of their financial journey and have financial clarity.
Additional Content Available on YouTube
⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@FIN-LYTbyEWA?sub_confirmation=1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
Connect with EWA ⁠
https://ewa-llc.com/⁠Follow Us on Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/ewa.llc/
⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/equilibrium-wealth-advisors/⁠ ⁠
https://www.facebook.com/EquilibriumWealthAdvisors/⁠
View EWA Disclosures and Firm ADV: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/308977

11 min
December 21, 2023 Investing Cash Into The Market: Market Timing, Psychology, and the Long Game
In this episode of FIN-LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki and Jamison Smith dive deep into the world of investing, discussing the common struggles individuals face when deciding when and how to put their cash into the stock market. They address the top three objections people have when considering investing their cash, including concerns about high valuations and waiting for market drops. The hosts also explore the psychological aspect of investing and how it impacts decision-making.
The episode takes a data-driven approach, examining historical trends and statistics to dispel common myths about market timing. They emphasize the importance of a long-term financial plan and explain the pros and cons of strategies like dollar-cost averaging.
Matt and Jamison also discuss the relationship between interest rates and stock prices and debunk the misconception that rising interest rates are always bad for stocks. They provide valuable insights into why long-term investing and discipline are key to achieving financial goals.
Tune in to gain a better understanding of how to approach investing with a focus on the long-term, backed by data and sound principles.
Additional Content Available on YouTube
⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@FIN-LYTbyEWA?sub_confirmation=1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
Connect with EWA ⁠
https://ewa-llc.com/⁠Follow Us on Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/ewa.llc/
⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/equilibrium-wealth-advisors/⁠ ⁠
https://www.facebook.com/EquilibriumWealthAdvisors/⁠
View EWA Disclosures and Firm ADV: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/308977

29 min