Land & Everything Else

Want to know how investments in rural areas can transform communities and yield impressive returns? Join us on the Land and Everything Else podcast as we sit down with John Heneghan, President of Servant Financial, to uncover the secrets behind Opportunity Zone Funds. This episode is a deep dive into the mechanics of the Promised Land Opportunity Zone Fund, where John explains how these funds are revitalizing low-income communities by enhancing agricultural productivity. From the origins of opportunity zones to the specific improvements like grain bin storage and irrigation, listen in to understand how these investments are making a substantial impact.

John shares an insider's perspective on the Promised Land Opportunity Zone Fund's successful first round of investments, which raised $40 million in equity and secured an additional $20 million in loans. Discover how the fund acquired and improved 12 farms across Illinois, South Carolina, Mississippi, and North Carolina. Highlighting the standout project—a 4,500-acre farm in North Carolina equipped with a state-of-the-art grain bin system. Don't miss this insightful conversation that reveals the transformative power of strategic agricultural investments.

• Ailie Elmore on LinkedIn
• John Heneghan on LinkedIn
• Agriculture Focused Financial Planning
• Land & Everything Else YouTube Channel

“Land & Everything Else” dives into the world of alternative investments this week. Join Ailie Elmore as she talks with Jeremy Heer from the University of Illinois Foundation. Jeremy shares his journey from New York trading floors to the academic world of U of I, offering insights into managing diverse portfolios.

They explore how well-diversified portfolios, like UBS's Multi-Asset Portfolio, stand up to market shifts, and examine the nuances of hedge funds and risk management. Jeremy's story shows how alternative investments can reshape risk and present exciting opportunities for savvy investors.

This episode highlights the blend of art and science in alternative investing. It’s a must-listen for anyone curious about innovative approaches to portfolio management.

• Ailie Elmore on Linkedin
• Jeremy Heer on Linkedin
• Agriculture Focused Financial Planning
• Land & Everything Else YouTube Channel

Curious about how financial planning and philanthropy support education? Join Ailie Elmore and Justin Seno from the University of Illinois Foundation for this informative episode. Learn about his journey from high school fundraising to managing donor gifts and planning services at the foundation. Discover how their recent move to a new building has enhanced collaboration and efficiency, and understand how large donations are structured for maximum impact.

Farmland donations play a crucial role in boosting academic and research excellence. Justin explains the benefits and innovative financial arrangements like charitable remainder trusts and retained life estates. We discuss how donor intent aligns with university needs, and dive deeper into impactful programs like the Agriculture Focus Financial Planner (AFFP) designation and the Discovery Partners Institute.

This episode offers insights on how strategic philanthropy is shaping the future of higher education and the community. 

Want to learn more? Check out the links below! 

• Justin Seno on Linkedin
• Ailie Elmore on LinkedIn 

Are you a financial planning professional looking to better serve the needs and goals of clients associated with agriculture or living in rural communities? Then be sure to check out our Agriculture Focused Financial Planning designation by clicking on the link below!

• Agriculture Focused Financial Planning
• Land & Everything Else YouTube Channel

Unlock the secrets of the soil with the guidance of Dr. Bruce Sherrick, who joins us to reveal the untapped potential of farmland investments. We'll explore how these assets outperform inflation and preserve generational wealth. Discover why farmland is a golden opportunity for both large investors and savvy individuals.

In our conversation, we delve into investment strategies tailored for various wealth levels, from a million-dollar nest egg to tens of millions. Learn how to balance diversification with the nuances of the farmland market. Dr. Sherrick explains the benefits of row crop cash rent strategies and the emerging carbon offset market.

We also discuss the pathways of private equity and credit, highlighting the importance of sharp investment acumen and an adept team. For those recently retired or looking to diversify their portfolios, farmland offers a compelling option. This episode is packed with insights on how agriculture can enhance your financial legacy.

Want to learn more? Check out the links below! 

• Bruce Sherrick on Linkedin
• Dr. Craig Lemoine on LinkedIn 

Are you a financial planning professional looking to better serve the needs and goals of clients associated with agriculture or living in rural communities? Then be sure to check out our Agriculture Focused Financial Planning designation by clicking on the link below!

• Agriculture Focused Financial Planning
• Land & Everything Else YouTube Channel

We live in a world where financial strategies include rare sports cards and family farmland. Join Dr. Craig Lemoine for a conversation with Randy Bruns and Alex Offerman from Model Wealth, where they rejected traditional fee-based models with their hourly-based and flat-fee approaches, ensuring tailored advice for all. Dive into the world of alternative investments as Randy and Alex offer their stories and insights on everything from emotional ties to ancestral land all the way to understanding tax rates on collectibles. This episode is invaluable for optimizing your financial portfolio!

Want to learn more? Check out the links below! 

• Randy Bruns on LinkedIn
• Alex Offerman on LinkedIn
• Dr. Craig Lemoine on LinkedIn 
• Model Wealth

Are you a financial planning professional looking to better serve the needs and goals of clients associated with agriculture or living in rural communities? Then be sure to check out our Agriculture Focused Financial Planning designation by clicking on the link below!

• Agriculture Focused Financial Planning
• Land & Everything Else YouTube Channel

Discover the truth behind the allure of rental property investments with Dr. Craig Lemoine as we talk with Randy Bruns and Alex Offerman from Model Wealth. This episode dives into the nuances of real estate investment, separating reality from social media hype. Through both success and horror stories about the nitty-gritty of property management, this conversation offers a grounded perspective on building wealth with rentals. So join Craig, Randy and Alex as they uncover the hype and the horror of rental property investment.

Want to learn more? Check out the links below! 

• Randy Bruns on LinkedIn
• Alex Offerman on LinkedIn
• Dr. Craig Lemoine on LinkedIn 
• Model Wealth

Are you a financial planning professional looking to better serve the needs and goals of clients associated with agriculture or living in rural communities? Then be sure to check out our Agriculture Focused Financial Planning designation by clicking on the link below!

• Agriculture Focused Financial Planning
• Land & Everything Else YouTube Channel

“Land & Everything Else” is no stranger to sharing the benefits of investing in farmland—but what about investing in water rights? Water is essential for our daily lives, making it an ideal asset class for investors looking to get ahead of today’s increased demands for the resource. This week, Brett Bovee, a Principal at Westwater Research, joins Dr. Craig Lemoine to discuss the complexities of water rights and the economics of this vital resource in the Western U.S. 

With Bovee’s insight, listeners can understand the intersection between farmland and water rights; cultivating an understanding of how water leasing and conservation payments create new revenue streams for farmers, and helping conserve the resource for future generations. Discover how Westwater Research supports its clients by creating a comprehensive team—ensuring investors, farmers, and the environment all benefit. 

Want to learn more? Check out the links below! 

• Brett Bovee on LinkedIn 
• Westwater Research 
• Dr. Craig Lemoine on LinkedIn 

Are you a financial planning professional looking to better serve the needs and goals of clients associated with agriculture or living in rural communities? Then be sure to check out our Agriculture Focused Financial Planning designation by clicking on the link below!

• Agriculture Focused Financial Planning
• Land & Everything Else YouTube Channel

Creating a successful career in the financial advisory industry takes the right mix of ambition, knowledge, and talent. This week, Dr. Craig Lemoine is joined by Mackenzie Granby, CFP® Senior Advisory Associate at Vivaldi Capital Management and University of Illinois alumni, as she shares her career journey, showcasing the critical role of continuous education and finding a firm that aligns with your personal investment philosophies.

Dr. Craig and Mackenzie discuss the nuances of client relationships and the meticulous investment vetting process at Vivaldi, where asking the right questions and simplifying investment jargon can make investing an easier experience for clients. This week's conversation provides a guide for fledgling advisors making their mark in the alternative investment space. 

Want to learn more? Check out the links below! 

• Mackenzie Granby on LinkedIn 
• Vivaldi Capital Management 
• Dr. Craig Lemoine on LinkedIn 

Are you a financial planning professional looking to better serve the needs and goals of clients associated with agriculture or living in rural communities? Then be sure to check out our Agriculture Focused Financial Planning designation by clicking on the link below!

• Agriculture Focused Financial Planning
• Land & Everything Else YouTube Channel

Alternative investments are the cornerstone of a diverse portfolio, opening investors up to many opportunities. While they offer the potential for lucrative returns, they are notoriously complex. This week, Dr. Craig Lemoine is joined by Ilya Zlotnik, Wealth Advisor and Partner from Vivaldi Capital Management, to uncover the power of non-stock and bond investments and how wealth management firms are helping investors succeed. 

Tune in as Dr. Craig and Ilya discuss Vivaldi's growth, turning $150 million into an astonishing $4 billion in assets. Episode 12 of “Land & Everything Else” highlights the challenges of accessing private equity, imparting wisdom on the expanding role of financial advisors, and leaving listeners with a guide for the future.  

Want to learn more? Check out the links below! 

• Ilya Zlotnik on LinkedIn 
• Vivaldi Captial Management 
• Dr. Craig Lemoine on LinkedIn 

Are you a financial planning professional looking to better serve the needs and goals of clients associated with agriculture or living in rural communities? Then be sure to check out our Agriculture Focused Financial Planning designation by clicking on the link below!

• Agriculture Focused Financial Planning
• Land & Everything Else YouTube Channel

Beginning with the 2008 financial crisis, the interest in farmland as an asset class has grown exponentially. From its positive correlation to inflation to the future possibilities with renewables, institutions are looking to buy farmland. Ailie Elmore is joined by returning guest Steve Bruere, CEO of Peoples Company, to dissect why farmland is a staple of any diverse portfolio. Tracing the roots of institutional farmland ownership, the conversation sheds light on its evolution from a niche asset to a sought-after investment.  

Drawing from his vast experience, Steve gives listeners insights into how Peoples Company is creating value for both investors and farmers. This episode provides a roadmap through the seasonal cycles of commodity prices and their sway over land values, imparting strategies for a future-proof investment. 

Ready to learn more? Check out the links below! 

• Steve Bruere on LinkedIn 
• Peoples Company 
• Ailie Elmore on LinkedIn 
• Dr. Craig Lemoine on LinkedIn 

Are you a financial planning professional looking to better serve the needs and goals of clients associated with agriculture or living in rural communities? Then be sure to check out our Agriculture Focused Financial Planning designation by clicking on the link below!

• Agriculture Focused Financial Planning
• Land & Everything Else YouTube Channel