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In this episode, we sit down with Richard Corral, CEO of Retirement Systems, to explore how he’s helped over 1,000+ people retire with confidence — and why retirement planning is about more than just the numbers.

Richard shares:

• His journey from teenage arbitrage hustler to RIA and founder
• Why great investing is about recognizing potential, not just returns
• The key risks he watches: inflation, geopolitics, and global instability
• His vision for Advanced Advisor, a platform aiming to revolutionize financial services
• His bold mission: create $100B in positive financial impact

“Investing is not just about numbers; it's about recognizing opportunities and nurturing potential.”

Whether you're preparing for retirement or managing multi-generational wealth, this episode offers timeless insight from someone building real outcomes — not just spreadsheets.

About Richard Corral:

Richard Corral is the Founder and CEO of Retirement Systems, and a seasoned financial strategist with deep experience across hedge funds, valuation, and wealth planning. At CME Group, he monitored hedge fund flows across global sectors. At Grant Thornton, he led valuations for companies worth up to $30 billion.

A graduate of DePaul University (cum laude) and a former Aon Financial Leadership Program member, Richard blends institutional knowledge with a deep passion for helping everyday investors build smart, sustainable retirement plans. Now, through initiatives like Advanced Advisor, he’s on a mission to redefine what impactful financial planning looks like.

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About Sidepocket:

If you don't have the time to professionally trade and are tired of being at the whim of the market's ups and downs, consider using Sidepocket to automate investing.

Sidepocket monitors the markets 24/7 and automatically rebalances your holdings each month. To maximize returns while protecting against loss.

That's why Sidepocket applies sophisticated quantitative methods, including tactical asset allocation to systematically minimize these drawdowns and consistently protect and grow your hard earned savings.

To learn more, visit www.sidepocket.com

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In this episode, we talk with Jason Nordlund, founder of The Norstar Group, about building a hedge fund from scratch, navigating economic uncertainty, and the power of a diversified investment strategy.

Jason shares:

• How a late-night real estate infomercial launched his investing journey
• His self-taught evolution from real estate to hedge fund management
• A breakdown of his personal portfolio: precious metals + high-growth tech
• His influences from Austrian economics and free-market principles
• How to think like a strategist, not a speculator, in volatile markets

“My strategy is simple but not easy: be prepared for anything… Spread your risk, and don’t let your money rot on the vine.”

Whether you’re an aspiring investor or seasoned fund manager, this episode is packed with hard-earned insights on balancing growth and safety in a world that’s constantly shifting.

About Jason Nordlund:

Jason Nordlund is the founder of The Norstar Group, a hedge fund built on the principles of self-education, diversified investing, and macroeconomic awareness. Starting his entrepreneurial journey in college, Jason expanded from a high-end painting business to real estate and eventually into investment strategy and capital growth.

After facing early setbacks, Jason turned to deep study of macro theory, Austrian economics, and venture capital—emerging with a framework that prioritizes both liberty and long-term value creation. He now helps investors bridge the gap between access and insight through education, deal flow, and live events.

Click Here to Check Out Our Upcoming Online
Investing Events

About Sidepocket:

If you don't have the time to professionally trade and are tired of being at the whim of the market's ups and downs, consider using Sidepocket to automate investing.

Sidepocket monitors the markets 24/7 and automatically rebalances your holdings each month. To maximize returns while protecting against loss.

That's why Sidepocket applies sophisticated quantitative methods, including tactical asset allocation to systematically minimize these drawdowns and consistently protect and grow your hard earned savings.

To learn more, visit www.sidepocket.com

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In this episode, we dive deep with Raamon Newman, co-founder of New Mavericks and author of The Science of Protection, to explore how inner development directly impacts leadership performance, profits, and investment returns.

A former elite athlete and full-time meditating monk, Raamon shares his six-part framework for protected achievement—a model that empowers leaders to make high-impact decisions from a calm, creative, and aligned state.

You’ll learn:

• How to reduce stress and enhance intuition through deep coherence
• Why aligned thoughts and feelings create decision-making clarity
• How cultivating inner stillness protects your business from external volatility
• The spiritual edge used by CEOs, investors, and high-performers worldwide

“Leaders don’t rely on anybody or anything—they create by enlivening the next possibility.”

If you’re a founder, investor, or executive ready to lead from a more centered and visionary place, this conversation offers a new lens on success in today’s accelerated world.

About Raamon Newman:

Raamon Newman is a former Olympic-level athlete, 10-year full-time monk, leadership consultant, and co-author of The Science of Protection. As CEO of New Mavericks, he coaches CEOs, investors, and entrepreneurs in accessing peak leadership states that optimize creativity, reduce risk, and maximize results.

He holds a BCom in Marketing from the University of Auckland and is also a Meisner-trained actor and dedicated philanthropist. Through New Mavericks and partnerships like YouthBizAlliance, Raamon helps today’s leaders unlock protected performance by going inward first—because real success is built from the inside out.

Click Here to Check Out Our Upcoming Online
Investing Events

About Sidepocket:

If you don't have the time to professionally trade and are tired of being at the whim of the market's ups and downs, consider using Sidepocket to automate investing.

Sidepocket monitors the markets 24/7 and automatically rebalances your holdings each month. To maximize returns while protecting against loss.

That's why Sidepocket applies sophisticated quantitative methods, including tactical asset allocation to systematically minimize these drawdowns and consistently protect and grow your hard earned savings.

To learn more, visit www.sidepocket.com

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In this episode, we welcome Shelley Alger — early tech employee turned angel investor, advisor, and founder — to explore how wealth creation, innovation, and impact can go hand in hand.

Shelley shares:

• Her journey from scaling a $3B+ IPO unicorn to backing early-stage startups
• The importance of investing in founders with grit and humility
• Where AI and quantum tech are shifting the landscape
• How climate tech and social impact investing are driving the future
• Why platforms like Linqto are helping democratize access to private equity

“AI is going to change society… this is where I like to play in tech startups.”

Whether you're an investor, founder, or someone passionate about tech’s role in building a better world, Shelley’s insights will expand how you think about value, opportunity, and impact in today’s market.

About Shelley Alger:

Shelley Alger is a Bay Area-based angel investor, founder, and former tech exec with over 25 years of experience scaling startups and driving innovation. She helped grow Critical Path to over 1,400 employees and a $3B+ market cap, and has since advised, invested in, or partnered with companies across climate tech, food innovation, and sustainable finance.

With an average MOIC of 16x+ and a deep commitment to equity and sustainability, Shelley works with game-changing startups like Stasher, EFD, and Change Finance. She’s a Keiretsu Forum investor, a global traveler, and a passionate fine art photographer. Learn more at www.shelleyalger.com.

Click Here to Check Out Our Upcoming Online
Investing Events

About Sidepocket:

If you don't have the time to professionally trade and are tired of being at the whim of the market's ups and downs, consider using Sidepocket to automate investing.

Sidepocket monitors the markets 24/7 and automatically rebalances your holdings each month. To maximize returns while protecting against loss.

That's why Sidepocket applies sophisticated quantitative methods, including tactical asset allocation to systematically minimize these drawdowns and consistently protect and grow your hard earned savings.

To learn more, visit www.sidepocket.com

Message the Host

In this episode, we sit down with Mac Gardner, CFP®, Founder of FinLit Tech and author of The Four Money Bears, to explore how financial literacy and technology can work together to create a more financially empowered society.

Mac shares:

• The four essential money functions kids should learn early: Spend, Save, Invest, and Give
• How to simplify financial concepts for all ages
• The importance of transparent, personalized guidance in financial planning
• Why tech needs to do a better job supporting real human decision-making

“We’ve got to start the conversation about money.”

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or someone working to improve your own financial wellbeing, this episode is a practical and inspiring look at how we can level up our financial lives—and teach the next generation to do the same.

About Mac Gardner, CFP®:

Mac Gardner, CFP® is a 20-year financial services veteran, bestselling author, and Founder of FinLit Tech, a company dedicated to bridging the gap between financial literacy and financial technology. He’s the author of Motivate Your Money! and The Four Money Bears, and a nationally recognized advocate for early money education, financial empowerment, and tech-enabled learning.

Click Here to Check Out Our Upcoming Online
Investing Events

About Sidepocket:

If you don't have the time to professionally trade and are tired of being at the whim of the market's ups and downs, consider using Sidepocket to automate investing.

Sidepocket monitors the markets 24/7 and automatically rebalances your holdings each month. To maximize returns while protecting against loss.

That's why Sidepocket applies sophisticated quantitative methods, including tactical asset allocation to systematically minimize these drawdowns and consistently protect and grow your hard earned savings.

To learn more, visit www.sidepocket.com

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In this episode, we speak with Ben Kromnick, Head of Partnerships at Dealmaker and Managing Partner at LvlUp Ventures, about reshaping how startups raise capital.

Ben shares:

• Why founders should spend more time building, not fundraising
• How equity crowdfunding is democratizing startup ownership
• The role of digital infrastructure in simplifying capital raises
• What today’s founders need to know about efficient fundraising
• His approach to value investing and risk management with tools like Sidepocket

“I’m focused on helping founders spend more time building their businesses and less time raising their capital.”

This episode is essential listening for entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone curious about the future of venture capital, private markets, and inclusive investing.

About Ben Kromnick:

Ben Kromnick is a venture capitalist and private equity innovator with a background in tech, product leadership, and entrepreneurship. As Head of Partnerships at Dealmaker, he helps companies streamline fundraising through modern infrastructure. He also serves as Managing Partner at LvlUp Ventures, focusing on early-stage investments in health tech and supporting diverse founders. Known for his commitment to equity and efficiency, Ben mentors founders and builds solutions that expand access to capital across the startup ecosystem.

Click Here to Check Out Our Upcoming Online
Investing Events

About Sidepocket:

If you don't have the time to professionally trade and are tired of being at the whim of the market's ups and downs, consider using Sidepocket to automate investing.

Sidepocket monitors the markets 24/7 and automatically rebalances your holdings each month. To maximize returns while protecting against loss.

That's why Sidepocket applies sophisticated quantitative methods, including tactical asset allocation to systematically minimize these drawdowns and consistently protect and grow your hard earned savings.

To learn more, visit www.sidepocket.com

Message the Host

In this episode, we sit down with Matthew Lowe, Venture Capitalist at Miroma Ventures and Director of the Lowe & Hermes Family Office, for a deep dive into entrepreneurship, creator economy investing, and what it means to be a true value-add investor.

Matthew shares:

• How Miroma Ventures’ unique model trades marketing services for equity
• What separates successful creators in today’s attention economy
• The growing role of AI in media and entertainment
• How to evaluate founders, and why he never says no to entrepreneurs
• A macro view on regional investing trends and global opportunity

If you're an investor, founder, or creator looking to stay ahead of the curve, this episode is packed with insights on building lasting success in both business and investing.

“Be smart, be careful who you trust, and consider the content and passion of the platform before making investment decisions.” – Matthew Lowe

About Matthew Lowe:

Based in Los Angeles, Matthew Lowe is a venture capitalist at Miroma Ventures, where he supports early-stage tech companies by providing more than just capital — he brings strategy, services, and global perspective. With a background in law and history, Matthew blends sharp analysis with a human-first approach to investing.

Outside of venture capital, he’s an avid outdoorsman with a love for boats, spearfishing, and the wilderness. Known for his integrity and passion, Matthew is dedicated to making a meaningful impact through both business and life.

Click Here to Check Out Our Upcoming Online
Investing Events

About Sidepocket:

If you don't have the time to professionally trade and are tired of being at the whim of the market's ups and downs, consider using Sidepocket to automate investing.

Sidepocket monitors the markets 24/7 and automatically rebalances your holdings each month. To maximize returns while protecting against loss.

That's why Sidepocket applies sophisticated quantitative methods, including tactical asset allocation to systematically minimize these drawdowns and consistently protect and grow your hard earned savings.

To learn more, visit www.sidepocket.com

Message the Host

Step inside the world of venture capital with Brandon Maier, founder of LvlUp Ventures and co-founder of Quake Capital, one of the top-performing early-stage funds globally. With over 250 investments, $2.2 billion in capital under management, and a 94% startup survival rate, Brandon shares what it really takes to win in venture investing today.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• His proven approach to evaluating early-stage startups
• What’s working in today’s VC market
• How LvlUp Ventures builds founder momentum
• His outlook on tech, AI, and the macro investing climate
• How he became one of the most diversity-forward investors globally

Brandon also shares insights from his time as a university lecturer, venture competition judge, and serial startup founder — making this episode a masterclass for founders and investors alike.

About Brandon Maier:

Brandon is the Founder and General Partner at LvlUp Ventures, and previously co-founded Quake Capital, a top-tier VC and accelerator with offices in NYC, LA, and Austin. His portfolio includes 9 exits, and he’s been named:

• Top 10 VC worldwide by Forbes
• #2 investor in female-founded startups (Crunchbase)
• #1 in global diversity investing (BetaBoom)

Click Here to Check Out Our Upcoming Online
Investing Events

About Sidepocket:

If you don't have the time to professionally trade and are tired of being at the whim of the market's ups and downs, consider using Sidepocket to automate investing.

Sidepocket monitors the markets 24/7 and automatically rebalances your holdings each month. To maximize returns while protecting against loss.

That's why Sidepocket applies sophisticated quantitative methods, including tactical asset allocation to systematically minimize these drawdowns and consistently protect and grow your hard earned savings.

To learn more, visit www.sidepocket.com

Message the Host

In this debut episode, we sit down with legendary innovator John “Mac” McQuown, the man credited with creating the first index fund. Mac shares the story behind one of the most revolutionary ideas in modern finance — from his time leading Wells Fargo’s Management Sciences Group to co-founding Dimensional Fund Advisors.

We explore how index funds reshaped investing by outperforming the vast majority of active strategies, why diversification remains essential, and how emerging technologies like graphene could disrupt the future of energy storage.

“A simple-minded index fund outperformed about 95% of those portfolios.”

Whether you're a finance pro, index investor, or history buff, this episode delivers deep insight into the origins of passive investing and the future of financial innovation.

About John “Mac” McQuown:

A pioneer in quantitative finance, John “Mac” McQuown helped launch the first index fund at Wells Fargo in the 1970s. He later co-founded Dimensional Fund Advisors (DFA), as well as KMV and Diversified Credit Investments. Beyond finance, he runs Stonehenge Farm Estate Vineyards, a fully off-grid, self-sustainable winery in Napa Valley. His work continues to shape how billions of dollars are invested around the world.

Click Here to Check Out Our Upcoming Online
Investing Events

About Sidepocket:

If you don't have the time to professionally trade and are tired of being at the whim of the market's ups and downs, consider using Sidepocket to automate investing.

Sidepocket monitors the markets 24/7 and automatically rebalances your holdings each month. To maximize returns while protecting against loss.

That's why Sidepocket applies sophisticated quantitative methods, including tactical asset allocation to systematically minimize these drawdowns and consistently protect and grow your hard earned savings.

To learn more, visit www.sidepocket.com