Paul Blanco's Small Steps, Big Wins

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.

Podcast Episode Title: Marketing in Financial Services

Podcast Episode Description: On the show, Paul often talks about Barnum being a marketing firm that sells financial products and services. Marketing is one of the most important things to learn and utilize in this business if you want to succeed. Barnum has some of the best people and tools to help advisors in the business. This episode features conversations with marketing professionals:

Elizabeth Hiza | Chief Marketing Officer | Barnum Financial Group

Paul Tyler | Head of Enterprise Marketing and Marketing Innovation | Zinnia

Ian Querze | Director of Advisor Marketing | Barnum Financial Group

00:00 - Intro

00:47 - Elizabeth Hiza | The Present and Future of Marketing

           Elizabeth Hiza | The Agency: Marketing for Financial Advisors

13:56 - Paul Tyler | FinTech in Our Field

21:45 - Ian Querze | Building Your Marketing Plan

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.

CRN202804-8678270

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: Building a Healthy Financial Future

Podcast Episode Description:  The landscape of financial planning has changed quite a bit over the years and with it has come a bevy of products and services created to give financial advisors the tools to better serve their clients and assist them towards a healthier, sturdier financial future. This episode features conversations with several financial professionals about some of these products and services, including:

• Matthew Teel, CFP®, CLU® | Founder, Managing Principal | Risk and Insurance Associates, LLC
• Myles Lambert | Executive Vice President, Chief Distribution and Marketing Officer | Brighthouse Financial
• Jeremy Hus, MSFS, CFP®, ChFC®, CASL®, CLU® | Vice President, Financial Planning | Barnum Financial Group
• Niko Vamvakas, RCIP® | Vice President, Retirement Planning Solutions | Barnum Financial Group

00:00 - Intro

00:50 - Matthew Teel | Life Insurance Strategies

06:53 - Myles Lambert | The Evolution of the Life Insurance Industry

13:41 - Jeremy Hus | The World of Financial Planning

22:41 - Niko Vamvakas | Annuities and the Retirement Planning Space

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.

CRN202805-8665011

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 Journey of an Advisor

Podcast Episode Description: This episode features conversations with several Barnum Financial Group financial advisors as they each discuss their personal and professional journey as a financial advisor.

This episode features the following financial professionals:

Ben Howarth, CASL®, RICP® | Financial Advisor | Financial Services Executive | Investment Advisor Representative | Special Care Planner

Bryan Rosen, AIF®, CASL® | Financial Planner | Financial Services Executive | Investment Advisor Representative

Jason Bayuk, CFP® | Financial Advisor | Financial Services Executive | Investment Advisor Representative

Norman Leslie, LUTCF, CASL®, ChFC® | Financial Advisor | Financial Services Executive | Investment Advisor Representative

00:00 Intro

00:53 Benjamin Howarth | Being an Advocate for Your Clients

07:07 Bryan Rosen | Hitting the Ground Running

16:10 Jason Bayuk | Striving to Make an Impact

20:38 Norman Leslie | Putting in the Effort Every 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.

CRN202804-8638130

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: Elizabeth Hiza | Chief Marketing Officer | Barnum Financial Group

Bio: Seasoned Operations professional focused on client service and mentorship. Adjunct professor of Career Planning and Professional Success.

As a marketing executive in the dynamic digital marketing space, I use data science and new technologies to develop innovative brand-building strategies. Recognized as a business partner by my colleagues, I work across functions to collaborate and execute these strategies to drive revenue. I listen to feedback to review and refine strategies that adapt to the changing environment. In leading people, I take a coaching approach. As a matter of fact, I became an Associate Certified Coach & Business Coach with International Coaching Federation to enhance my knowledge and skills. Additionally, I provide clear vision and transparent feedback while employing high emotional intelligence which has led to high-performing teams.

I believe in constantly improving my skills and regularly engaging in programs to continue my learning and development. This has been an example to those around me and I encourage others to pursue their own growth through professional development.

I am a member of the National Speakers Association and have delivered Keynote speeches focused on the power of a growth mindset. I was recently recognized as a Woman to Watch by Investment News.

Podcast Episode Description: Study of Americans in the Workplace

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.

CRN202712-7649016.

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: Bonnie Godsman, CPBC | President, Finseca | CEO, GAMA Global

Theme: Stackable Progress

Bio

In our increasingly complex digital age, a great deal of business comes down to strong relationship building. That’s especially true when you are the former CEO of an international membership association, GAMA International, that made the decision to merge with another organization, AALU, to unify the profession and create Finseca in September 2020.

As the President of Finseca, focused on the United States, and GAMA Global, focused on international business, I am intensely focused on building relationships and helping professionals stay relevant in the rapidly changing world of insurance, investment, and financial services.

I gravitated toward the financial security profession because I got caught up in the one-of-a-kind challenges our industry faces. And I was inspired by the stories we share about how insurance and financial planning helps families, businesses, and communities.

As President of Finseca and GAMA Global, I get so many opportunities to work with and learn from smart, influential people. I’m constantly learning from others, and try to model my own approach to leadership through:

• being forward-thinking and unafraid to change what doesn’t work
• welcoming challenges and going after the most important objectives, no matter how difficult
• building genuine connections with our Finseca and GAMA Global associates and members around the world

In my down time, I like to decompress outside the Beltway by spending time at my farmhouse in Pennsylvania. While I'll always be a political junkie at heart (I especially love presidential history—my dog is named Lincoln), I gain a sense of calm each time I head back home to spend time with family.

Specialties include: strategic leadership | long-range planning | team building | leadership development

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.

CRN202709-7121068

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 – Matthew Saul, CFP®, CPWA®, CLU®, ChFC®, CEPA®, Wealth Management Advisor | Saul Wealth Advisors

For over 15 years, I've been dedicated to transforming financial advisory services for entrepreneurial families. I offer personalized "Personal CFO" solutions that make wealth management and strategic decision-making easier. My practice focuses on helping high-net-worth families manage their wealth, navigate business transitions, and handle global assets with ease.

I hold advanced designations, including CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®), Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA®), and Certified Exit Planning Advisor® (CEPA®). These credentials highlight my deep understanding of holistic financial planning, wealth transfer strategies, and business exit planning.

As a member of the prestigious Family Office Exchange (FOX)*, I collaborate with top consultants and multigenerational families to shape best practices in wealth management. I’m honored to be part of FOX’s Integrated Wealth Advisory Council, an exclusive group of 20 thought leaders from leading advisory firms, law practices, accounting firms, and multi-family offices.

Known for his compassion, intellectual depth, and personalized approach, Matt builds enduring relationships with his clients, empowering them to help protect and grow their wealth while achieving their long-term goals. Beyond his professional life, Matt spends his summers golfing on the North Fork and, as an avid boater, loves being on the water. He is also an active member of the New York Athletic Club (NYAC), where he plays ice hockey. Now living in Miami, FL, Matt enjoys life by the beach and spends his free time on the water, golfing, or playing tennis—when he’s not braving the cold to cheer on the New York Rangers. He holds a bachelor’s degree with honors from Pace University’s Lubin School of Business and regularly shares his insights as a guest speaker on financial topics to students.

*Family office Exchange is not an affiliation with Saul Wealth Advisors or MML Investors services, LLC or its affiliated companies.

Podcast Episode Description: Being a Lifelong Learner

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.

CRN202804-8473434

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 – Zachary Wojtowicz, Financial Planner | Investment Advisor Representative

As a Quinnipiac University Finance Major, Zack has always been intrigued by how people interact with money and financial markets. Financial services has provided Zack with the ideal platform to help individuals and families better understand their relationship with personal finances. He works in a fiduciary capacity with goal-based, client-centric planning as the focus.

Every client’s story is unique and intimate. With that, Zack believes the only solution is a personalized plan that is tailored to the individual’s needs, wants, and values. Zack places education at the root of his planning practice, believing that “There is no such thing as a bad investment. Investments are simply tools that need to be understood at a fundamental level and used properly”. Zack’s goal is to cultivate strong, long-lasting, collaborative relationships with his clients. He says, “If I had to identify one common theme for those who seek out my guidance, it is that they have come to a realization that they are done sacrificing today for some imaginary tomorrow.”

In 2022, Zach acquired his CFP® Designation after also becoming a Chartered Financial Consultant, (ChFC®) through The American College.

In his free time, Zack enjoys golfing, running, and long hikes with his dog, Bentley. He and his wife Tiffany live in Easton, CT with their son, Colton, and daughter, Isla.

Podcast Episode Description: Your Mindset is Everything

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.

CRN202803-8458186

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 – Dan Smaida

Editor-in-Chief of the AdvisoryEDGE™ Digest | Creator of the AdvisoryEDGE™ method | Author of “The Psychology of Advice”

Dan Smaida has spent this entire century coaching and training financial professionals on consultative skills. He has worked with some of the industry's leading insurance and advisory firms. Smaida speaks at conferences like ACP Connect and Cetera's Growth Summit. His second book "The Psychology of Advice" publishes May 2023. Smaida AdvisoryEDGE™ programs have helped thousands of financial professionals improve skills and results. (www.AdvisoryEDGE.com)

Podcast Episode Description: Developing Your Consultative Skills

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.

CRN202803-8419091

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.

(This week's episode is a replay of Paul's conversation with Joe Jordan back in 2023. Original air-date: September 12, 2023)

Today's Guest: Joe Jordan

My guest is Joe Jordan, an inspirational speaker, behavioral finance expert and a thought leader in our industry. He's also the author of the award-winning book, Living a Life of Significance. In this book, Joe breaks down his five pillars of financial success and that's what we're going to talk about today.

Bio: https://joejordan.com/about-joe-jordan

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.

CRN202604-4274738

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.

Today's Guest: Joe LoPresti

Joe has helped Barnum create a collaborative culture that nurtures leaders and empowers outstanding performance. He mentors countless financial professionals, members of Barnum’s leadership team and staff to help achieve their personal and professional goals. Today we’re going to discuss what traits can make up a successful financial advisor.

Bio: Executive Vice President | Barnum Financial Group - My hands-on, open-door approach at Barnum has helped create a collaborative culture that nurtures leaders and empowers outstanding performance. I’m extremely gratified to have instilled in this firm a “can do” culture of stretch goals and accountability. This has translated double-digit recruiting growth for over a decade as well as stamped Barnum with the distinguished “Best Place to Work in CT” award four times.

I love my career at Barnum because I thrive on my interactions with people- and this is a people business. While at MetLife, I was a record-breaking, seven-time recipient of MetLife’s #1 Managing Sales Director Award. I value being the person others call when they need support, motivation, and advice. Whether it’s coaching my leadership team, top advisors, or staff, I continue to help them realize their personal and professional objectives. This has contributed to Barnum’s collective commitment to excellence and made us the visionary firm we continue to be today while helping our clients lead more fulfilling lives through financial education and literacy.

Outside the office, my passion for people extends to young people as well. I have long coached youth basketball and softball, enabling me to spend meaningful time with my kids and instill in other children important life lessons in teamwork, integrity, and dedication. 

I want my legacy to be that I truly loved and cared about people while being their biggest advocate to push forward to be the individual they aspire to be and attain the goals they have set out to accomplish.

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.

CRN202605-4458769