The Long Game

The Long Game

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The Long Game episodes

  • Mastering Equity Compensation: A Guide to Stock Options, RSUs, and ESPPs with Sheri Fortier

    Summary

    In this detailed interview, Sheri Fortier, Senior Manager ofEquity Compensation Programs at NetScout, shares her expertise on stock options, RSUs, ESPPs, and the intricacies of equity compensation. Learn how to navigate tax implications, maximize benefits, and understand the differences between various equity plans to make informed decisions.

    Keywords

    equity compensation, stock options, RSUs, ESPP, taximplications, stock plan management, employee benefits, stock vesting, stockpurchase plans, financial literacy

    Key topics

    • Differences between stock options, RSUs, and ESPPs
    • Tax implications of equity compensation
    • How stock plans are set up and managed
    • Best practices for employees to understand and leveragestock benefits
    • Common mistakes and misconceptions about equity plans

    Guest name

    Sheri Fortier

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background

    04:10 Understanding Equity Compensation: Stock Options vs.RSUs

    09:55 Tax Implications of RSUs and Stock Options

    16:03 Employee Stock Purchase Plans (ESPP) Explained

    23:43 Navigating the Complexities of Equity Compensation

    24:31 Understanding Employee Stock Purchase Plans

    25:38 Navigating Company Resources for Stock Benefits

    30:05 Common Misunderstandings About Equity Compensation

    33:21 Maximizing the Value of Equity Benefits

    36:19 Tax Implications of Equity Compensation

    39:57 Valuation and Grant Structures in Equity Compensation

    Guest links

    LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherifortier

     

    50 min
  • Decoding Benefits: What Every Employee Should Know with Jaclyn Prymicz

    Summary

    In this insightful interview, Jaclyn Prymicz, a benefits and compliance expert, shares her knowledge on employee benefits, health insurance, maternity leave, and maximizing benefits. Ryan Coburn, a financial advisor, explores practical questions about benefits planning, helping listeners understand how to make informed decisions during open enrollment and beyond.

    Key Topics

    • Health insurance options and differences (HSA, FSA, PPO, HDHP)
    • Maternity leave, FMLA, and disability benefits
    • Maximizing employer benefits and retirement contributions
    • Common misconceptions and pitfalls in employee benefits

    Takeaways

    • Ask questions during open enrollment to understand your benefits
    • Calculate the cost-effectiveness of health plans based on your needs
    • Take advantage of employer matches in 401k plans
    • Understand the difference between job protection (FMLA) and paid leave
    • Utilize benefits like HSAs and FSAs to save on taxes

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Benefits and Leave Planning

    01:35 Jaclyn's Background and Expertise in HR

    04:38 Understanding Benefits During Open Enrollment

    07:34 Common Misunderstandings in Benefits

    10:36 Navigating Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

    13:50 Maternity Leave: FMLA vs. Paid Leave Options

    18:52 Understanding Family Leave and Benefits

    23:20 Maximizing 401(k) Participation

    27:16 Exploring Ancillary Benefits

    29:39 The Importance of Long-Term Disability

    32:39 Navigating Employee Benefits as a New Hire

    35:16 The Value of Calculating Health Plan Costs

    38:01 Yellow and Black Illustrative Podcast Cover (Video).mp4

    38:10 Jaclyn Prymicz compliance statement for Ryan Coburn (1).mp4

    Guest links

    LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclynpshrmcp/

    40 min
  • Active vs. Passive Investing: What $3.4 Billion Under Management Actually Teaches You

    Summary

    What if the biggest risk to your financial future is not a market crash, but overconfidence in a strategy that has never truly been tested?

    Gracio Garcia has spent 24 years inside the world of wealth management. He personally manages roughly $700 million and oversees a $3.4 billion book at the Bullfinch Group. He is a Forbes-listed advisor and a member of the Park Avenue Securities Executive Committee. He is also a former elite rower who ranked 4th nationally trying out for the U.S. team as a Brazilian citizen, a trained violinist who gave up classical music for a rowing scholarship at Northeastern, and a dad who helps families navigate wealth the way a good friend would.

    This conversation goes deep on what it actually takes to build a portfolio that can survive not just the good times, but the ones most investors have never had to live through.

    You will hear Gracio and Ryan break down the real difference between active and passive investing, why the S&P 500 index is a great start but not a complete strategy, and how the wealthier you get, the more tax efficiency and active management start to matter. They also dig into the Vanguard study that quantifies exactly what a great advisor adds to your long-term plan, why chasing rate of return is one of the most dangerous habits an investor can develop, and what it really means to think about your full financial life, not just one account.

    Gracio's framework: passive is your core. Active is the harmony around it. And the goal is never a number. It is the life that number makes possible.

    Chapters

    0:00 Introduction

    0:50 Gracio's Origin Story: From Brazil to Boston

    2:27 Trying Out for Team USA (As a Brazilian)

    3:53 Building Bullfinch's Investment Department from $300K to $25M

    6:36 What a Financial Advisor Actually Does

    8:53 The "I'll Just Buy the S&P 500" Conversation

    13:37 Active vs. Passive Investing: Clearly Defined

    17:03 When Active Management Earns Its Place

    20:18 The Hidden Danger of DIY Concentration Risk

    21:55 The Lost Decade and the Stimulus Blind Spot

    23:10 Macro Thinking: Your Whole Balance Sheet

    24:37 Goal-Based Investing vs. Chasing Rate of Return

    27:34 Risk On / Risk Off: The Thematic Investing Approach

    29:29 Why Life Complexity Is the Real Argument for an Advisor

    32:29 The Vanguard Study: A Great Advisor Adds 2%

    35:33 Gracio's Credentials and Track Record

    39:05 Passive as Core, Active as Harmony

    40:12 Tax Efficiency: The Overlooked Piece Most Investors Miss


    Connect with Gracio Garcia and the Bullfinch Group:

    https://www.bulfinchgroup.com/team/gracio-garcia

    [email protected]

    43 min
  • Unlocking Creativity Through Rest - But Not 'That' Kind of Rest...

    Summary

    In this conversation, Ryan Coburn and Michael Cinquino explore the themes of rest and productivity, focusing on the book 'Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less' by Alex Soo Jung Kim Pang. They discuss the importance of active rest, mind wandering, and the role of walking in enhancing creativity. The conversation emphasizes the need for balance between work and rest, the impact of technology on our ability to rest, and the significance of protecting our attention and being intentional in our actions. They also touch on the concept of deep play and how it can contribute to mental well-being and productivity.


    Takeaways

    • Rest is an active practice, not a passive one.
    • Walking is a crucial form of active rest.
    • Mind wandering is essential for creativity.
    • We often confuse stepping away from problems with hiding from them.
    • Technology can hinder our ability to rest effectively.
    • Creating space for mind wandering can enhance productivity.
    • Deep play can provide a necessary mental reset.
    • Protecting our attention is as important as protecting our finances.
    • Connection with others is vital for mental health.
    • Finding balance between work and rest is key to productivity.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Rest and Active Rest

    02:36 Understanding Active Rest and Its Importance

    06:00 The Role of Walking in Creativity

    08:44 Mind Wandering: The Key to Creativity

    11:39 The Balance of Work and Rest

    14:48 Deep Play and Its Benefits

    17:50 Creating Space for Mind Wandering

    20:43 The Impact of Technology on Rest

    23:57 Managing Responsibilities and Finding Balance

    26:52 The Importance of Protection and Intention

    29:32 Final Thoughts on Rest and Productivity


    46 min
  • Why Runners Break Down: What to Fix Before You Hit the Pavement This Spring - with Hayden Gray

    Summary

    In this conversation, Ryan Coburn and Hayden Gray discuss the journey of running, the challenges faced by runners, and the importance of strength training and injury prevention. They explore the transition from team sports to long-distance running, the significance of setting realistic goals, and the common injuries that arise from running. Hayden emphasizes the need for a movement-based approach to injury recovery and the commitment required for training and rehabilitation. The discussion also touches on Hayden's personal running journey and upcoming goals, highlighting the discipline and mindset needed to succeed in both running and life.


    Takeaways

    • Strength training is crucial for runners to prevent injuries.
    • Setting time-based goals is more achievable than distance goals.
    • Common running injuries stem from inadequate strength and overuse.
    • A movement-based approach is essential for effective injury recovery.
    • Small wins help build confidence in runners.
    • Progression in running should focus on time before distance.
    • Injury prevention requires understanding the body's load capacity.
    • Meeting clients where they are is key to their success.
    • Discipline in running translates to other areas of life.
    • Commitment to a training program is necessary for improvement.


    Chapters

    00:00 The Journey of Running and Its Challenges

    02:09 Transitioning from Team Sports to Long-Distance Running

    04:29 Progressing from Novice to Marathon Runner

    11:17 Setting Realistic Goals in Running

    15:14 Common Injuries and Their Causes in Running

    18:15 The Importance of Strength Training for Runners

    22:34 The Debate on Back Squats

    24:04 Injury Recovery Philosophy

    26:38 Movement-Based Approach to Pain

    29:31 The Challenge of Patient Compliance

    31:57 Transitioning from Rehab to Training

    33:57 Hayden's Marathon Journey

    36:59 The Life Lessons from Running


    Keywords

    running, strength training, injury recovery, marathon, fitness, goal setting, physical therapy, long-distance running, personal training, health

    41 min
  • The Power of Breath in Wellness with Joseph Anew

    Summary

    In this conversation, Ryan Coburn and Joseph explore the intricate relationship between health, resilience, and the power of breath. They discuss personal health journeys, the importance of quality of life, and practical strategies for managing stress and enhancing well-being. Joseph shares insights on the significance of nasal breathing, the impact of breathwork on emotional health, and the future of wellness through innovative therapies like hyperbaric oxygen treatment. The dialogue emphasizes the need for mindfulness, celebrating small wins, and understanding the body's responses to stress.

    Takeaways

    • Quality of life is as important as longevity.
    • Expectations can hinder health progress.
    • Resilience is about tolerating stress, not just working hard.
    • Breath is a powerful tool for managing stress.
    • Nasal breathing enhances oxygen absorption and detoxification.
    • Celebrating small wins is crucial for mental health.
    • Mindfulness can be practiced in everyday activities.
    • Understanding your fears can reduce anxiety.
    • Breathwork can improve emotional accessibility.
    • Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a promising health advancement.


    Chapters

    00:00 The Quest for Knowledge and Quality of Life

    00:41 Health Span vs. Life Span: A Personal Journey

    03:46 The Importance of Safety and Emotional Accessibility

    06:42 Resilience: Balancing Work and Personal Life

    09:36 The Addiction to Grind: Breaking Free

    12:42 Celebrating Wins: The Importance of Acknowledgment

    15:28 Breath: The Gateway to Health and Well-Being

    25:12 The Power of Breath in Stress Management

    27:38 Awareness and Stoicism in Daily Life

    30:02 Nose vs. Mouth Breathing: The Physiological Impact

    36:27 The Importance of Nitric Oxide and Cardiovascular Health

    39:05 Practical Breathing Techniques for Health Improvement

    43:03 Business Insights and Future Endeavors

    46:57 16x9.mp4

    47:07 V2 Joseph Anew Compliance Statement.mp4

    50 min
  • The State of Cinema with Keith Macri & Ev Duran

    Summary

    In this engaging conversation, the hosts delve into the current state of the film industry, discussing the impact of streaming services, the quality of recent films, and the role of AI in filmmaking. They explore the balance between entertainment and artistic integrity, share their favorite moments from their own show, and reflect on the evolution of movie preferences over the years. The discussion culminates in thoughts on the future of cinema and the potential for a resurgence of quality filmmaking amidst the challenges posed by technology and changing audience expectations.


    Takeaways

    • Movies today often lack the middle ground of quality.
    • The internet has polarized opinions on films.
    • There are still great films being made, but they require searching.
    • The rise of streaming has changed how movies are consumed.
    • AI could revolutionize filmmaking, but it also poses risks.
    • The collaborative nature of filmmaking is unique and complex.
    • Editing and production require significant effort and time.
    • Nostalgia for past films influences current preferences.
    • The future of movies may be messy as technology evolves.
    • Artistic execution is crucial in filmmaking, not just ideas.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Movie Discussions

    02:38 The Current State of Cinema

    05:42 The Impact of Streaming on Film Quality

    07:54 Finding Hope in Recent Films

    10:48 The Role of AI in Film Production

    13:47 The Effort Behind Creating a Movie Review Show

    16:38 Favorite Moments and Films Discussed

    27:11 Exploring Breathing Techniques and Health

    28:36 The Evolution of Comedy in Film

    31:17 The Impact of Streaming on Movie Preferences

    32:49 The Challenge of Finding Time for Movies

    37:15 The Paradox of Choice in Film Consumption

    38:36 The Magic of Movies and Collaborative Art

    47:08 The Future of Filmmaking in the Age of AI

    54:37 16x9.mp4

    54:48 duran Compliance Statement.mp4


    57 min
  • Embracing Uncertainty: Hopes for 2026

    Summary

    In this conversation, Michael Cinquino interviews Ryan Coburn about his hopes for clients in 2026, emphasizing the importance of embracing uncertainty and taking action in financial planning. Ryan discusses the need for clients to organize their financial data, take proactive steps towards their goals, and find fulfillment in their careers. He highlights the role of a financial advisor as an advocate and the importance of personalized advice tailored to individual circumstances. The discussion also touches on the significance of clarity and structure in navigating financial decisions, as well as the excitement for personal and professional growth in the coming year.


    Takeaways

    • Embrace the unknown and take action in financial planning.
    • Inaction is a decision to stay put.
    • Starting a savings strategy early has significant benefits.
    • Organization of financial data is crucial for clarity.
    • Fear often stems from uncertainty about financial situations.
    • Clients should take action even if the timing isn't perfect.
    • Financial advisors should be advocates for their clients.
    • Personalized advice is essential for effective financial planning.
    • Clarity in financial goals helps mitigate fear.
    • Rushing and waiting are the only ways to waste time.


    Chapters

    00:00 Looking Ahead: Hopes for 2026

    02:00 Embracing Uncertainty and Taking Action

    03:41 Getting Started: Small Steps to Financial Clarity

    06:41 Confronting Shame: The Power of Transparency

    07:42 Finding Purpose: Aligning Actions with Goals

    11:55 Establishing Guardrails: Navigating Financial Risks

    14:20 The Importance of Context in Financial Decisions

    16:48 Looking Forward: Personal and Professional Aspirations

    20:23 16x9.mp4

    20:34 Coburn & Cinquino Compliance Statement.mp4


    Keywords

    financial planning, future goals, client advocacy, taking action, embracing uncertainty, personalized advice, career fulfillment, financial clarity, wealth accumulation, life changes








    22 min
  • How to Stay Focused, Accountable, and Balanced with Jon Sheldon

    Summary

    In this episode of The Long Game, host Ryan Coburn sits down with Jon Sheldon, a performance coach and former Marine, to explore how high-performing professionals can stay focused, build lasting accountability systems, and find genuine balance in their work and life.

    Jon dives into the psychology of focus, the power of defining your “North Star,” and why true leadership means making conscious choices—not chasing perfection. From practical accountability hacks to redefining balance as counterbalance, this episode delivers raw, actionable insight for anyone trying to play the long game in their career and personal growth.

    Takeaways:

    • Define your North Star: A vision that includes your personal life is more sustainable than one focused only on revenue.

    • Accountability thrives in simplicity: A physical reminder or one trusted partner beats ten apps.

    • Counterbalance, don’t balance: Accept that seasons of life demand focus shifts, not perfect equilibrium.

    • Grace > Guilt: Missing a goal doesn’t require a makeup day—it requires self-compassion and consistency.

    • Confidence is cumulative: Celebrate small wins and build momentum.

    • Leadership is a choice: It starts with humility, not ego.


    Connect:

  • Jon Sheldon – LinkedIn | Website

  • Ryan Coburn – LinkedIn | Website

  • Chapters:

    00:10 – Focus and Distraction

    03:53 – Vision vs. Why

    06:04 – The Power of Impact

    09:15 – Building Accountability

    12:19 – Start Small, Build Up

    17:34 – Rethinking Balance

    19:27 – Defining Success for Yourself

    24:05 – Seasons of Life and Grace

    29:44 – Confidence and Small Wins

    32:04 – Learning from Failure

    35:52 – Leadership and Choice

    39:00 – Ego, Humility, and Influence

    43 min
  • Unlocking the Power of Networking - With Lisa Keslar

    Summary

    In this conversation, Ryan Coburn and Lisa Keslar discuss the transformative power of networking and building relationships in both personal and professional contexts. Lisa shares her journey from corporate roles to co-owning an insurance business and teaching entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and creating value for others. They explore practical networking strategies, the significance of curiosity, and the mindset shift needed to view networking as a relationship-building opportunity rather than a sales tactic. The discussion highlights how genuine connections can lead to business growth and personal fulfillment.

    Takeaways

    • Networking is about building relationships, not just selling.

    • Curiosity is key to effective networking.

    • Creating value for others leads to personal and business growth.

    • Your network can significantly impact your net worth.

    • Everyone has value to offer, regardless of experience.

    • Networking can happen in everyday situations, not just formal events.

    • Helping others can lead to unexpected opportunities.

    • Mindset is crucial; an abundance mindset fosters collaboration.

    • Volunteering is a great way to network and give back.

    • Building a strong network takes time and effort, but it's worth it.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Importance of Networking

    11:44 Building Relationships for Business Growth

    23:35 Creating Value in Networking

    31:39 Transforming Mindsets on Networking

    Keywords

    networking, community, relationships, business growth, value creation, entrepreneurship, referrals, personal development, mindset, teaching


    34 min

About The Long Game

From the publisher's feed

The Long Game is a show about money, planning, and the lifestyle you actually want to live. Hosted by Ryan Coburn, a financial strategist who believes money only matters when it’s used with intention,…