Life, Money, and Living Well

While we may all like different genres of music, there’s one thing we can agree on: songwriting is an artform. Today, we get to connect with a living legend of songwriting. While you may not immediately recognize his name, if you’ve spent any time around country music, I’m betting you’ll recognize his songs. Rivers Rutherford has written 29 Top-40 country songs for artists like Brooks and Dunn, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Brad Paisley and Blake Shelton. River’s won so many songwriting awards we could fill the rest of our time together with them—and for his hard work, he was inducted in the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2019. After 20 years as a financial services professional and completing thousands of financial plans for clients…Ben shares the secrets to building wealth, but more importantly building a fulfilling life. Brief legal disclaimer: This podcast is intended for informational purposes only. The ideas and opinions on this episode do not constitute tax, legal or investment advice.  Listeners should seek the input of their own tax, legal, and financial planning professionals before acting on any of the information provided. Any speaker on this podcast expresses ideas that are subjective to the time of the recording, and are subject to change without notice, and are not always indicative of the opinions of the underwriters of this show. This episode should not replace the diligence of a full financial plan with a financial planning professional that can take your specific situation into account.

Is money a source of stress in your life? If you answered “yes,” you aren’t alone. A recent study, from August 2024, uncovered some pretty stunning insights into the relationship between Americans, stress, and their wallets. When it comes to money, too many of us aren’t living well. That’s why I’m so excited to have James Lenhoff as our guest today. James is an entrepreneur, a certified financial planner, an author and podcaster, with one simple goal: to help release the pressure of financial stress that so many people feel. James is also the author of Living a Rich Life: The No-Regrets Guide to Building and Spending Wealth. Instead of focusing solely on spending, as many financial planners do, James looks below the surface to what is motivating our money habits. His book is filled to the brim with simple, actionable wisdom that could change the state of your bank account—and life.

After 20 years as a financial services professional and completing thousands of financial plans for clients…Ben shares the secrets to building wealth, but more importantly building a fulfilling life.

Brief legal disclaimer: This podcast is intended for informational purposes only. The ideas and opinions on this episode do not constitute tax, legal or investment advice. 

Listeners should seek the input of their own tax, legal, and financial planning professionals before acting on any of the information provided. Any speaker on this podcast expresses ideas that are subjective to the time of the recording, and are subject to change without notice, and are not always indicative of the opinions of the underwriters of this show.

This episode should not replace the diligence of a full financial plan with a financial planning professional that can take your specific situation into account.

It’s been said that a great father doesn’t tell his kids how to live—instead, he lives well and lets them watch. I can say that’s been the story for me. And today, you’re going to get your own front row seat as I spend time with one of the most inspiring, motivational, and encouraging men I know. He also just happens to be my father.

Ron Beshear served over five decades at Northwestern Mutual, starting as a financial advisor and eventually becoming a managing partner at the Fortune 500 company. Alongside his wife, and my amazing mom, Mary, he started “Serving Your Purpose” in 1987, helping individuals and organizations clarify their purpose, generate greater personal satisfaction, and reach their highest potential.

With three published books, 10,000+ one-on-one interviews, and 55 years of marriage between them, Ron and Mary are highly sought after speakers, coaches, and experts on living lives of purpose.

I know he’s my father, but it’s not an exaggeration to say Ron has an outsized impact wherever he goes. His mission statement is to “live an outward-focused, others-centered life, serving individuals and institutions both personally and professionally for God’s glory.” As his son, I can say, he’s done exactly that… and more.

After 20 years as a financial services professional and completing thousands of financial plans for clients…Ben shares the secrets to building wealth, but more importantly building a fulfilling life.

Brief legal disclaimer: This podcast is intended for informational purposes only. The ideas and opinions on this episode do not constitute tax, legal or investment advice. 

Listeners should seek the input of their own tax, legal, and financial planning professionals before acting on any of the information provided. Any speaker on this podcast expresses ideas that are subjective to the time of the recording, and are subject to change without notice, and are not always indicative of the opinions of the underwriters of this show.

This episode should not replace the diligence of a full financial plan with a financial planning professional that can take your specific situation into account.

Blake has formed The Legacy Letter Challenge. His goal? Equipping 1 million mothers and fathers to pen letters that will help their children move into confidence, hope, resilience and success upon the time of their death.

Blake travels the country leading workshops on writing legacy letters, and delivering keynote addresses and leadership around the topic.

What Blake has to share today just might change the trajectory of your loved one’s life after you are gone. It really is that important.

After 20 years as a financial services professional and completing thousands of financial plans for clients…Ben shares the secrets to building wealth, but more importantly building a fulfilling life.

Brief legal disclaimer: This podcast is intended for informational purposes only. The ideas and opinions on this episode do not constitute tax, legal or investment advice. 

Listeners should seek the input of their own tax, legal, and financial planning professionals before acting on any of the information provided. Any speaker on this podcast expresses ideas that are subjective to the time of the recording, and are subject to change without notice, and are not always indicative of the opinions of the underwriters of this show.

This episode should not replace the diligence of a full financial plan with a financial planning professional that can take your specific situation into account.

Today, we’re catching up with John Schlifske, the soon-to-be-retiring CEO of Northwestern Mutual. Under his leadership, Northwestern Mutual has reached new heights of success, excellence, and customer service.

As a private wealth advisor for Northwestern Mutual, I have been profoundly influenced by John’s tenure, and count myself among the many people touched by his leadership and vision.

After joining Northwestern Mutual in 1987 as an investment specialist, John moved from portfolio manager to senior executive overseeing a variety of the company’s operations. Besides serving as the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman for Northwestern Mutual, John also serves as a director on the board of Kohl's Corporation, a member of the Executive Committee of the American Council of Life Insurers’ Board of Directors, and on the board of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce.

Today, we celebrate his legacy, learn from the challenges he’s overcome, and glean some of the invaluable wisdom he has picked up along the way.

Today, we hit all three: life, money, and living well.

After 20 years as a financial services professional and completing thousands of financial plans for clients…Ben shares the secrets to building wealth, but more importantly building a fulfilling life.

Brief legal disclaimer: This podcast is intended for informational purposes only. The ideas and opinions on this episode do not constitute tax, legal or investment advice. 

Listeners should seek the input of their own tax, legal, and financial planning professionals before acting on any of the information provided. Any speaker on this podcast expresses ideas that are subjective to the time of the recording, and are subject to change without notice, and are not always indicative of the opinions of the underwriters of this show.

This episode should not replace the diligence of a full financial plan with a financial planning professional that can take your specific situation into account.

When you hear the word “coach,” what comes to mind?

Maybe you think of icons like John Wooden, Vince Lombardi, or Pat Summit. Men and women who led their teams to remarkable achievements.

No matter what comes to mind for you, one thing is true: we never grow out of needing coaches. We all need people in our corner who can provide insight, a guiding hand, and encouragement to keep us going.

Today, we’re connecting with one of the country’s premier coaches. You’ve never seen him lifting a championship trophy on ESPN, but his leadership and insight has elevated the game for thousands.

A highly regarded performance coach and keynote speaker, Jordan Montgomery regularly coaches businesses executives, sales organizations, and entrepreneurs. He’s worked with Fortune 500 companies, championship sports teams, and professional athletes.

Aside from his role as founder of Montgomery Companies, Jordan also spends his time podcasting and writing. His new book, The Art of Encouragement: How to Lead Teams, Spread Love, and Serve from the Heart arrives on bookshelves is available this July.

Affiliate Links: Jordan Montgomery: The Art of Encouragement John Maxwell: The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership Jon Gordon: The Power of Positive Leadership Napoleon Hill: Think and Grow Rich Patrick Lencioni: The Five Dysfunctions of a Team Craig Groeschel: Think Ahead

After 20 years as a financial services professional and completing thousands of financial plans for clients…Ben shares the secrets to building wealth, but more importantly building a fulfilling life.

Brief legal disclaimer: This podcast is intended for informational purposes only. The ideas and opinions on this episode do not constitute tax, legal or investment advice. 

Listeners should seek the input of their own tax, legal, and financial planning professionals before acting on any of the information provided. Any speaker on this podcast expresses ideas that are subjective to the time of the recording, and are subject to change without notice, and are not always indicative of the opinions of the underwriters of this show.

This episode should not replace the diligence of a full financial plan with a financial planning professional that can take your specific situation into account.

Today, we’re going to be talking a whole lot of....bulls**t.

What you might not realize, though, is that BS could be the very thing that leads to your next breakthrough. At least, that’s what my guest, John W. Wright, believes.

A high-school All-American in football, John was recruited by over 60 schools before committing to the University of Illinois. By the time John had finished there, he was the schools’ (and the Big 10’s) leading receiver, landing at #5 overall in NCAA history.

He spent three years in the NFL before injuries forced him out of the game he loved. He might have taken off the helmet and pads, but he never lost the fire and grit.

A keystone of his leadership style? Empowering others.

Nowadays, John uses his 80 acre estate, Greyfield, as a training center for leaders. One of his secrets is what he calls “positive bulls**t.” Today, he’s going to unpack that for us, and we’ll get into what it takes to build great teams, the role of mentors, and how to have lasting impact.

Affiliate Links: John's Book: Bulls**t: A Good Word and a Vital Part of Leadership The Alchemist: A Fable about following Your Dream Angela Duckworth: Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance

After 20 years as a financial services professional and completing thousands of financial plans for clients…Ben shares the secrets to building wealth, but more importantly building a fulfilling life.

Brief legal disclaimer: This podcast is intended for informational purposes only. The ideas and opinions on this episode do not constitute tax, legal or investment advice. 

Listeners should seek the input of their own tax, legal, and financial planning professionals before acting on any of the information provided. Any speaker on this podcast expresses ideas that are subjective to the time of the recording, and are subject to change without notice, and are not always indicative of the opinions of the underwriters of this show.

This episode should not replace the diligence of a full financial plan with a financial planning professional that can take your specific situation into account.

If someone is reckless, is that a good thing? Or a bad thing?

Beth Guckenberger has a strong opinion about that.

Beth lives in Cincinnati, Ohio. Along with her husband, Todd, they serve as co-executive directors of Back2Back Ministries, an international nonprofit dedicated to being a voice for orphaned and vulnerable children. Through a multipronged approach that meets spiritual, physical, educational, emotional and social needs, Back2Back is helping children across the globe overcome their life circumstances and break free from the cycle of generational poverty.

Through Back2Back, over 30,000 people have traveled to serve orphaned and vulnerable children. 250 students have gained access to high school and college education. 37 children’s homes are making the transitions away from institutional care to family-style care. And over 500 organizations have been trained in Trauma Competent Care, rippling out to influence over 250,000 children in 68 countries. Between biological, foster, and adoption, the Guckenbergers have raised 11 children. Beth has also authored 13 books, including Throw the First Punch, Reckless Faith, and her most recent work, Warrior of Eden. Beth's Book: Reckless Faith (affiliate link) After 20 years as a financial services professional and completing thousands of financial plans for clients…Ben shares the secrets to building wealth, but more importantly building a fulfilling life. Brief legal disclaimer: This podcast is intended for informational purposes only. The ideas and opinions on this episode do not constitute tax, legal or investment advice. 

Entrepreneurship is a sexy word to some… until they realize just how much work, grit, and bravery it takes to start your own business. It’s not easy, and it’s not for the faint of heart.

Data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that 20% of new businesses fail during the first two years; 45% during the first five years; and 65% during the first 10 years. Only ¼ of all businesses will make it to the 15 year mark.

Steve Wanamaker is an entrepreneur and businessman defying those odds.

In 1998, along with his wife, Steve took out a $20,000 loan on his house to start a print magazine out of their spare bedroom. The rest is history. Since then, Steve has started multiple successful media companies, two of which have been acquired.

In 2004, Steve’s magazine, Inspire, was purchased by Gannett, a Fortune 500 media powerhouse that also owns The USA Today. And just last year, Steve sold his incredibly popular CDO Magazine, born from his time as co-director of MIT’s Chief Data Officer Information Quality Symposium, to private equity firm Growth Catalyst Partners. Today, this online magazine has a global readership of 400,000 in more than 184 countries, and has been recognized as one of America's fastest-growing private companies.

Steve remains at CDO Magazine as founder and publisher, as well as sitting on the board for UC Health and FC Cincinnati.

We’re going to talk about the real life of an entrepreneur, what it’s like to sell one of your businesses, what’s next for his career, and much, much more.

After 20 years as a financial services professional and completing thousands of financial plans for clients…Ben shares the secrets to building wealth, but more importantly building a fulfilling life. Brief legal disclaimer: This podcast is intended for informational purposes only. The ideas and opinions on this episode do not constitute tax, legal or investment advice. Listeners should seek the input of their own tax, legal, and financial planning professionals before acting on any of the information provided. Any speaker on this podcast expresses ideas that are subjective to the time of the recording, and are subject to change without notice, and are not always indicative of the opinions of the underwriters of this show. This episode should not replace the diligence of a full financial plan with a financial planning professional that can take your specific situation into account.