Paul Blanco's Small Steps, Big Wins

Small Steps, Big Wins. A podcast focused on the financial world and more. Paul Blanco, CEO of Barnum Financial Group, sits down with a special guest each week to discuss important topics within the financial sector. He’ll explore what it takes to be successful in our everyday lives and learn what shapes our industry.

Guest: Scott Sokolowski | Senior Vice-President | Barnum Financial Group

Bio: Scott Sokolowski is an industry leading Talent Acquisition expert focusing on identifying, recruiting, and transitioning experienced Financial Advisors, Wealth Managers and Insurance Agents. Scott has over 20 years of experience in this specialized field. He founded one of the top national recruiting firms in the country.

Scott works with each Financial Services professional on an individual basis to customize and identify unique business opportunities. His expertise in identifying business growth opportunities for experienced Advisors has led to substantial revenue increases. He has a track record of working with the most elite financial advisors in the business.

Scott has been awarded a number of industry honors including Fairfield County Business Journal’s 2012 Top 40 Under 40, and well as being featured on the cover of GAMA International Journal for his success in the Talent Acquisition sector. In addition, he co-authored an article in the 2011 GAMA International Journal titled “Attracting Top Talent” showcasing Scott’s strategy around the Talent Acquisition process.

In 2010 Scott founded a nonprofit organization, Save A Suit, which provides veterans and college graduates with professional business attire to enter the work force. In the 3 years since its inception, Save A Suit has become a nationally organization and has provided thousands of suits to veterans so they can interview for a civilian job. He has been a guest speaker on ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC news.

Prior to the start of his Talent Acquisition career, Scott served honorably as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force/Air National Guard. During his time in the Air Force, Scott also earned a Bachelor of Science degree in the field of Sports Medicine from the University of Connecticut.

Podcast Episode Description: A Love For Helping Others

Follow Paul on Instagram: @paul.f.blanco

Podcast Disclosure:

All opinions expressed by the Program Participants are solely their current opinions and do not reflect the opinions their respective parent companies or affiliates or the companies with which the Program Participants are affiliated. 

Investments or strategies mentioned in this program may not be suitable for you and you should make your own independent decision regarding them. This material does not take into account your particular investment objectives, financial situation or needs and is not intended as recommendations appropriate for you. You should strongly consider seeking advice from your own investment adviser.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. 6 Corporate Drive, Shelton, CT 06484, Tel: 203-513-6000.

CRN202709-7192152

Small Steps, Big Wins. A podcast focused on the financial world and more. Paul Blanco, CEO of Barnum Financial Group, sits down with a special guest each week to discuss important topics within the financial sector. He’ll explore what it takes to be successful in our everyday lives and learn what shapes our industry.

Guest: Jennee Blanco, CFP®, RICP® | CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Professional | Registered Representative | Investment Advisor Representative

Bio: After graduating from Elon University with a degree in Finance, Jennee began her role as a financial advisor with Barnum Financial Group. In 2020, she joined the Barnum Financial Group SKG Team, a team consisting of eight advisors and fifteen support members. With a large support team, she guarantees an efficient, comprehensive client experience. Jennee works effortlessly to provide people with the knowledge and information they need to make informed financial decisions with confidence.

Jennee assists with important, time-sensitive decisions regarding their coverage options. In addition, she provides comprehensive financial advice, such as when to begin taking social security and how to optimize retirement plan distributions. Jennee specializes in working with families and individuals who are going through a financial transition and are seeking guidance.

Jennee is focused on working with her clients to build a relationship that provides them with confidence that they are connected and in control of their financial life with a clear roadmap for the future.

Podcast Episode Description: The Power of S.M.A.R.T. Goals

Follow Paul on Instagram: @paul.f.blanco

Podcast Disclosure:

All opinions expressed by the Program Participants are solely their current opinions and do not reflect the opinions their respective parent companies or affiliates or the companies with which the Program Participants are affiliated. 

Investments or strategies mentioned in this program may not be suitable for you and you should make your own independent decision regarding them. This material does not take into account your particular investment objectives, financial situation or needs and is not intended as recommendations appropriate for you. You should strongly consider seeking advice from your own investment adviser.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. 6 Corporate Drive, Shelton, CT 06484, Tel: 203-513-6000.

CRN202711-7575476

Small Steps, Big Wins. A podcast focused on the financial world and more. Paul Blanco, CEO of Barnum Financial Group, sits down with a special guest each week to discuss important topics within the financial sector. He’ll explore what it takes to be successful in our everyday lives and learn what shapes our industry.

Podcast Episode Title: Delivering On Your Promise

Guest Bio: I work with a variety of professionals in numerous industries, with a particular focus on medical professionals, including Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), to develop an integrated long-term plan that works to bring their unique view of their financial future to life. I help them address the unique cash flow, savings, investment and insurance needs they face at each stage of their career. Whether you have just started your career or are planning for retirement I take the time to develop a thorough understanding of who each client is, how they think and what matters most to them.

I develop a customized strategy that is aligned with their personal and financial goals. Each strategic plan addresses the core areas of investment planning, risk management, retirement and estate planning, and family financial planning including education funding and elder care.

I provide ongoing monitoring and periodic in-person reviews.

I am here to adjust each strategy when necessary so it evolves to capitalize on I am the co-chair of one of the largest teams of experienced financial professionals who work hard to provide exceptional service and personalized attention.

Podcast Episode Description: This week on the show, we’re joined by Marcello De Pascale, a financial planner with Barnum Financial Group who focuses on medical professionals, helping them with their unique cash flow, investment needs and more. He’s here to share his experiences, his overall career in the financial services industry and the importance of delivering on your promise to your clients.

Follow Paul Blanco on Instagram: @paul.f.blanco

Podcast Disclosure:

All opinions expressed by the Program Participants are solely their current opinions and do not reflect the opinions their respective parent companies or affiliates or the companies with which the Program Participants are affiliated. 

Investments or strategies mentioned in this program may not be suitable for you and you should make your own independent decision regarding them. This material does not take into account your particular investment objectives, financial situation or needs and is not intended as recommendations appropriate for you. You should strongly consider seeking advice from your own investment adviser.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. 6 Corporate Drive, Shelton, CT 06484, Tel: 203-513-6000.

CRN202807-901925

Small Steps, Big Wins. A podcast focused on the financial world and more. Paul Blanco, CEO of Barnum Financial Group, sits down with a special guest each week to discuss important topics within the financial sector. He’ll explore what it takes to be successful in our everyday lives and learn what shapes our industry.

Podcast Episode Title: The Strength in Teaming

Guest Bio: I remember as a child my father managing a very successful restaurant in town and then later owning a not so successful restaurant. Knowing what I know now, I wish there would’ve been someone to help my family make better financial decisions in the good times, which then could have provided better opportunities in the down times. That is why I do what I do.

I grew up in central Maine (Orono) where everyone played a different sport each season. Baseball in the spring and summer, basketball in the winter (I try to forget about soccer in the fall - I am an awful soccer player). I’d always been part of a team growing up and realized I prefer working as part of a team in my professional life. I’ve partnered with another advisor, Marcello DePascale (an all-state soccer player from North Haven, CT), whose strengths more than cover areas in which I am not so strong in and who is the perfect complement to me on our team. Sara Matschke is the glue that keeps our team together. Sara began working on our team in 2009 and she does such a great job helping our clients that I’m quite certain clients who call in prefer to talk to her rather than me!

My wife Michelle and I moved to Oxford, CT in 2005. Our son Alex (2007) and daughter Riley (2009) are involved in numerous activities including swimming, gymnastics, basketball, and softball/ baseball. They certainly keep us busy on the weekends!

Podcast Episode Description: Chuck Hite is a financial planner with Barnum Financial Group who found his inspiration to join this industry at an early age but came into it the business from a career change. His path, while not atypical, opened him up to the strength of teaming and how a team can provide great insight when helping clients.

Follow Paul Blanco on Instagram: @paul.f.blanco

Podcast Disclosure:

All opinions expressed by the Program Participants are solely their current opinions and do not reflect the opinions their respective parent companies or affiliates or the companies with which the Program Participants are affiliated. 

Investments or strategies mentioned in this program may not be suitable for you and you should make your own independent decision regarding them. This material does not take into account your particular investment objectives, financial situation or needs and is not intended as recommendations appropriate for you. You should strongly consider seeking advice from your own investment adviser.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. 6 Corporate Drive, Shelton, CT 06484, Tel: 203-513-6000.

CRN202807-9018975

Small Steps, Big Wins. A podcast focused on the financial world and more. Paul Blanco, CEO of Barnum Financial Group, sits down with a special guest each week to discuss important topics within the financial sector. He’ll explore what it takes to be successful in our everyday lives and learn what shapes our industry.

Podcast Episode Title: Getting Into Your Green Zone

Guest Bio: My experience in the practice of equity compensation is unmatched. I have helped many equity compensation employees, primarily in the pharmaceutical world, with questions about company sponsored stock options plans and how to build a diversified portfolio. I understand the proper ways around a vesting schedule to help employees earn the most money, all while continuing employment.

The list of what I offer equity compensated employees is robust:

• Maximize the value and manage the risk of equity compensations
• Build a diversified client investment portfolio
• Screen out unintended overlap to stock options
• Apply tax mitigation strategies on stock option sales
• Manage and maintain a concentrated company stock position for employees

My approach is a focused approach on managing your wealth, but I also understand the need to take care of your family. I tout a holistic approach to your planning for equity compensation but also promote a positive work-life balance to enjoy your financial gains.

Managing your wealth is figuring out how and when to:

• Sell down some of your shares in a tax-efficient manner.
• Build a diversified portfolio appropriate for your risk tolerance and your financial goals.

Outside of the Office

When I’m not working with my clients, I enjoy spending time with my family. My wife, Daniela and our two daughters, Gabriela and Giada live in Monroe, Connecticut. My two biggest passions include cooking and making homemade wine. Every October, I enjoy a 3-4 weeklong process of making wine from grapes the old-fashioned way. Daniela’s parents are both chefs and they own their own restaurant, so I’ve been able to pick up some great cooking tips from them. Food and good wine are easy conversation starters and have helped me develop great relationships with clients, family, and friends.

If you have questions about your tax consequences, the concentration risk of your overall allocation or even about where to get a great bottle of wine, I have years of experience to mine for your financial success and personal enjoyment.

Podcast Episode Description: Eric Gerhard joins the show to share his personal journey in this industry. Finding your focus — what works for you and also what doesn’t work for you— is important to shaping your ability to be the best financial planner for your clients. As Eric says, getting yourself into your Green Zone, your optimal mode, balancing work and life and being able to perform at a high level every single day.

Follow Paul Blanco on Instagram: @paul.f.blanco

Podcast Disclosure:

All opinions expressed by the Program Participants are solely their current opinions and do not reflect the opinions their respective parent companies or affiliates or the companies with which the Program Participants are affiliated. 

Investments or strategies mentioned in this program may not be suitable for you and you should make your own independent decision regarding them. This material does not take into account your particular investment objectives, financial situation or needs and is not intended as recommendations appropriate for you. You should strongly consider seeking advice from your own investment adviser.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. 6 Corporate Drive, Shelton, CT 06484, Tel: 203-513-6000.

CRN202807-8953184 

Small Steps, Big Wins. A podcast focused on the financial world and more. Paul Blanco, CEO of Barnum Financial Group, sits down with a special guest each week to discuss important topics within the financial sector. He’ll explore what it takes to be successful in our everyday lives and learn what shapes our industry.

Guest: Duncan MacPherson | Podcast Host, Author, Coach and Keynote Speaker on Practice Management, CEO of Pareto Systems, Coaching for Financial Professionals

Bio: Duncan MacPherson, driven by a deep passion for unlocking potential, steers Pareto Systems in his role as CEO. Together with financial professionals and visionary firms, he is committed to designing businesses that achieve both profitability and purpose. Duncan, alongside his team, leverages the unique 'The Blue Square Method'-a methodology inspired by best practices-to guide professionals toward discovering their 'Blue Square.' This represents the ideal state where their business activities are in perfect harmony with their passion and purpose.

As a speaker in high demand, Duncan travels extensively throughout North America and around the world, conveying dynamic and fact-rich presentations that have made him a popular spokesperson for the Financial Services industry.

Duncan's expertise in demystifying business development and marketing in the financial world has universal appeal, from the high-level advisor to the successful wholesaler, to corporate financial institutions. Duncan's primary goal is to help Professionals achieve liberation and order in their businesses through step-by-step methodology and execution.

Duncan is also an industry best-selling author and has written many books including: The Advisor Playbook and The Blue Square Method; the mindset and best-practices of top fee-for-service professionals.

Beyond the office, Duncan loves spending time with his wife and two sons. They enjoy the four-seasons playground they call home in beautiful Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada. He enjoys staying active with recreational activities such as golf, tennis, pickleball and skiing.

Podcast Episode Description: The Evolution of the Advisor

Follow Paul on Instagram: @paul.f.blanco

Podcast Disclosure:

All opinions expressed by the Program Participants are solely their current opinions and do not reflect the opinions their respective parent companies or affiliates or the companies with which the Program Participants are affiliated. 

Investments or strategies mentioned in this program may not be suitable for you and you should make your own independent decision regarding them. This material does not take into account your particular investment objectives, financial situation or needs and is not intended as recommendations appropriate for you. You should strongly consider seeking advice from your own investment adviser.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. 6 Corporate Drive, Shelton, CT 06484, Tel: 203-513-6000.

CRN202801-7846268

Paul Blanco's Small Steps, Big Wins. A podcast focused on the financial world and more. Paul Blanco, CEO of Barnum Financial Group, sits down with a special guest each week to discuss important topics within the financial sector. He’ll explore what it takes to be successful in our everyday lives and learn what shapes our industry.

Guest: Kevin Brown | Motivational Speaker & Bestselling Authoir | Creator of The Hero Effect® | Branding and Culture Expert

Podcast Episode Description: The Hero Effect

Bio: Kevin’s unconventional path to business and personal success has taught him that winning in business and in life requires anything but conventional thinking. He grew up in Muskegon, Michigan where his blue-collar roots taught him the value of hard work and determination. With a streetwise aptitude and a never quit attitude, he worked his way from the front lines in business to the executive boardroom.

Kevin understands what drives organizational excellence and customer loyalty. He knows first-hand how great brands think, feel and act. He is a branding and culture expert with a 30+ year career in franchise development. He spent the last 20 years of his corporate career as part of a leadership team that built a little-known family business into the #1 franchise in their industry with annual revenues exceeding $2 billion dollars. Since 2016, he has traveled the world pursuing a mission to share The HERO Effect® message with as many people and organizations as possible.

The HERO Effect® is a simple philosophy that separates world-class organizations and high-performance people from everybody else. Kevin is passionate about helping people expand their vision, develop their potential, and grow their results. And, as the father of a child with autism he knows firsthand how the principles of true success reach beyond the boardroom and into the lives of real people facing the challenges of everyday life.

As a highly sought-after keynote speaker, Kevin has had the privilege of speaking to a wide variety of organizations including American Express, Delta Airlines, PayPal, ExxonMobil, Nationwide, H&R Block, Sprint, Ernst & Young, Million Dollar Round Table, Merck, Booz Allen Hamilton, and many more.

Kevin is the bestselling author of The Hero Effect® (2017/2019). In his second book, Unleashing Your Hero (Harper Collins Leadership/Nov 2021), Kevin shares how the heroes who transformed his life are people just like you. People who were willing to use their gifts and abilities to serve others at a high level. This book is a guide to help everyday people discover and unleash their hero at work and in life.

Kevin has received numerous honors, including being named one of the ‘Top 10 Keynote Speakers of 2021’ by SpeakInc; one of the ‘Top 41 Motivational Speakers Who Can Energize Any Sales Team’ by Resourceful Selling; among the ‘Top Customer Service Speakers’ by Eagles Talent Speakers Bureau; one of the ‘Best Keynote Speakers of 2019’ by NorthStar Meetings Group; and an elite and in-demand ‘Gold Star Speaker’ by GDA Speakers.

Kevin entertains, inspires, and challenges people to show up every day and make a positive difference at work and in life!

Podcast Disclosure:

All opinions expressed by the Program Participants are solely their current opinions and do not reflect the opinions their respective parent companies or affiliates or the companies with which the Program Participants are affiliated.

Investments or strategies mentioned in this program may not be suitable for you and you should make your own independent decision regarding them. This material does not take into account your particular investment objectives, financial situation or needs and is not intended as recommendations appropriate for you. You should strongly consider seeking advice from your own investment adviser.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. 6 Corporate Drive, Shelton, CT 06484, Tel: 203-513-6000.

CRN202910-12213588

Small Steps, Big Wins. A podcast focused on the financial world and more. Paul Blanco, CEO of Barnum Financial Group, sits down with a special guest each week to discuss important topics within the financial sector. He’ll explore what it takes to be successful in our everyday lives and learn what shapes our industry.

Guest: Paul Epstein | Award-Winning Leadership & Sales Speaker | 2x Bestselling Author | Former NFL & NBA Executive | Founder, Win Monday | Growth & Momentum Expert

Bio:

• 2x Bestselling author, The Power of Playing Offense and Better Decisions Faster
• Success Magazine Top Speaker that Gets Results
• Former NFL & NBA Executive and WHY Coach of the 49ers
• Set an all-time Super Bowl revenue record
• Took a Jerry Maguire leap from sports, to graduate from career to calling
• Advisor to Fortune 500’s, Pro Athletes, and High Growth Founders
• Led a $3B leadership development laboratory
• Featured in USA Today, ESPN, NBC, Entrepreneur, and Fox Business
• Clients range from Zoom, Amazon, Johnson & Johnson, and NASA to the Lakers and Cowboys
• Proudest titles: father, husband, son, Trojan, and Wolverine
• Bacon lover, just don’t make it too crispy
• Got married on the field of Levi’s Stadium (her idea, I swear!)

Podcast Episode Description: Winning Monday

Follow Paul on Instagram: @paul.f.blanco

Podcast Disclosure:

All opinions expressed by the Program Participants are solely their current opinions and do not reflect the opinions their respective parent companies or affiliates or the companies with which the Program Participants are affiliated. 

Investments or strategies mentioned in this program may not be suitable for you and you should make your own independent decision regarding them. This material does not take into account your particular investment objectives, financial situation or needs and is not intended as recommendations appropriate for you. You should strongly consider seeking advice from your own investment adviser.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. 6 Corporate Drive, Shelton, CT 06484, Tel: 203-513-6000.

CRN202712-7815156

Small Steps, Big Wins. A podcast focused on the financial world and more. Paul Blanco, CEO of Barnum Financial Group, sits down with a special guest each week to discuss important topics within the financial sector. He’ll explore what it takes to be successful in our everyday lives and learn what shapes our industry.

Podcast Episode Title: The Day-to-Day of Advisors

Podcast Episode Description: An important thing to consider when deciding to become a financial advisor is what your typical, day-to-day truly looks like. This episode looks back on our conversations with financial advisors about their experiences.

This episode features the following financial professionals:

• Brooke Hourigan | Financial Planner
• Scott Panza, LUTCF, AIF® | Financial Planner | Financial Services Executive | Investment Advisor Representative
• Joe Bogardus, CFP®, ChFC®, AIF®, CCPS® | Financial Planner | Financial Services Executive | Special Care Planner
• Brian Ward | Financial Planner | Wealth Management Advisor

00:00 - Intro

00:49 - Brooke Hourigan | Finding a Balance in Your Career

07:26 - Scott Panza | Sticking to Your Path

11:18 - Joe Bogardus | This is Not a 9-5 Job

18:23 - Brian Ward | Approach Every Day with Tenacity

Follow Paul Blanco on Instagram: @paul.f.blanco

Podcast Disclosure:

All opinions expressed by the Program Participants are solely their current opinions and do not reflect the opinions their respective parent companies or affiliates or the companies with which the Program Participants are affiliated. 

Investments or strategies mentioned in this program may not be suitable for you and you should make your own independent decision regarding them. This material does not take into account your particular investment objectives, financial situation or needs and is not intended as recommendations appropriate for you. You should strongly consider seeking advice from your own investment adviser.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. 6 Corporate Drive, Shelton, CT 06484, Tel: 203-513-6000.

CRN202805-8669946

Paul Blanco's Small Steps, Big Wins. A podcast focused on the financial world and more. Paul Blanco, CEO of Barnum Financial Group, sits down with a special guest each week to discuss important topics within the financial sector. He’ll explore what it takes to be successful in our everyday lives and learn what shapes our industry.

Guest Bio – Bellaria Jimenez, CFP®, MBA | President, General Agent | MassMutual Tri-State

Growing up as an immigrant in New Jersey, I witnessed firsthand many of the mistakes made by people who didn’t fully grasp the financial system in this country. After college, I began my career as an advisor to help people understand why it’s so important to plan financially for the future. Now, as Managing Partner and President of a firm, I coach and educate individuals, businesses and employees on the importance of financial literacy. My hope is to pass along my financial knowledge to the next generation and that includes my son.

Working in this industry has empowered me to make my life matter – personally and professionally. I am passionate about helping others succeed in the career. I dedicate time to coaching and mentoring women in the business. The focus on financial literacy for children and college students is my contribution to future generations in educating them on what choices they have when making money decisions and career choices.

Industry involvement in AALU, MDRT, GAMA, FPA are very critical to me. I feel that being committed to my career means understanding and supporting the industry and advocating in areas that will help support our field.

Podcast Episode Description: Moving the Industry into the Future

Follow Paul on Instagram: @paul.f.blanco

Podcast Disclosure:

All opinions expressed by the Program Participants are solely their current opinions and do not reflect the opinions their respective parent companies or affiliates or the companies with which the Program Participants are affiliated. 

Investments or strategies mentioned in this program may not be suitable for you and you should make your own independent decision regarding them. This material does not take into account your particular investment objectives, financial situation or needs and is not intended as recommendations appropriate for you. You should strongly consider seeking advice from your own investment adviser.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. 6 Corporate Drive, Shelton, CT 06484, Tel: 203-513-6000.

CRN202805-8800556