What do the St. Louis Rams and Prince have in common? Their stories illustrate the pros and cons of an ILIT—or, more accurately, what happens when estate planning tools like an ILIT aren’t used at all.

https://www.youtube.com/live/ni7KgQ_ZTLI

They both became cautionary tales of what happens when estate planning falls short.

When Georgia Frontiere passed away, her heirs were forced to sell the Rams to cover estate taxes. Prince’s estate? Still tied up in probate years after his death.

These aren’t stories of neglect or ignorance. These are stories of high-capacity individuals who didn’t have the right tools in place. And that’s why today’s conversation matters.

Because we’re diving into a financial strategy that could mean the difference between your family being forced to sell a cherished asset—or preserving it for generations.

We’re talking about ILITs: Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts.

Why ILITs Matter More Than You Might ThinkWhat Is an ILIT and How Does It Work?Estate Taxes: Why the Exemption Threshold MattersThe Pros and Cons of an ILITThe Pros of Using an ILITThe Cons of Using an ILITWhen Does an ILIT Make Sense?Strategic Flexibility: You Don’t Have to Choose All or NothingThe Generational Impact of Strategic PlanningIs an ILIT Right for You?Book A Strategy Call

Why ILITs Matter More Than You Might Think

Whether you’re familiar with ILITs or hearing the term for the first time, this strategy could hold the key to protecting your estate, reducing tax liability, and setting up your heirs for success. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

In fact, it may not be the right move for everyone—but for some, it can be one of the most powerful wealth-preserving tools available.

This blog will unpack what an ILIT is, how it works, and most importantly, the pros and cons of an ILIT. We’ll also explore the real-life application of ILITs, share client insights, and equip you with actionable steps you can take.

By the end, you’ll know if this tool aligns with your multigenerational vision and the legacy you want to leave. And if it does, you’ll be empowered to act decisively.

What Is an ILIT and How Does It Work?

An ILIT—short for Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust—is exactly what it sounds like: a trust that holds life insurance outside of your estate. It has its own tax ID, its own trustee (not you), and its own beneficiaries.

This separation means that when you pass, the death benefit doesn’t get added to your estate total—which could potentially save your heirs from paying up to 40% in federal estate tax on that benefit. At the state level, those percentages could be even more aggressive depending on where you live.

That’s the power of an ILIT: separation equals protection. It turns your life insurance policy into a strategic asset that bypasses probate and keeps your wealth intact.

Estate Taxes: Why the Exemption Threshold Matters

Right now, the estate tax exemption for a couple is over $26 million. That means if your estate is worth less than that, you won’t owe federal estate taxes.

But here’s the catch: that number is a moving target. It’s not static, and it’s not guaranteed. Congress has changed it before and will likely do so again.

Under previous administrations, the exemption was as low as $2 million. And with $36 trillion in national debt and rising, the likelihood of Congress lowering that threshold is very real.

It’s not a matter of if the rules will change—it’s a matter of when. And if you wait until after they do, it may be too late to put the right tools in place.

That means even if your estate is valued at $10 or $15 million today, you could face estate taxes tomorrow—unless you plan proactively.

The Pros and Cons of an ILIT

The Pros of Using an ILIT

Reduces Estate Taxes: The biggest benefit. By keeping the death benefit outside your estate, you prevent your estate from ballooning in value and triggering taxes.

Today, Bruce and I want to unpack a question we frequently encounter: Is cash value life insurance enough for retirement? It’s a compelling question, but one without a simple yes or no answer. The effectiveness of cash value life insurance as your primary retirement vehicle heavily depends on your personal discipline, your overall financial strategy, and, importantly, your understanding of what retirement means to you.

https://www.youtube.com/live/rASx9CvIpbg

When I started my financial career back in the late 1980s, a presentation caught my attention. It claimed that by consistently funding a whole life insurance policy, individuals could join the "Lucky 3%"—those who felt completely secure about their retirement. This idea was captivating, promising financial freedom through disciplined saving. Yet, over the years, I discovered something crucial: consistency, discipline, and long-term thinking significantly outweigh the choice of any specific financial product.

The Retirement Dream vs. RealityIs Cash Value Life Insurance Enough for Retirement?Defining Retirement: What Does It Really Mean?The Importance of Consistent Savings and DisciplineWhole Life vs. VUL and IUL: Stability and GuaranteesThe Myth of "Zero is Your Hero" in Indexed Universal Life (IUL)Cash Value Life Insurance as Part of a Comprehensive Retirement PlanThe Infinite Banking AdvantageCan You Rely Solely on Cash Value Life Insurance?Book A Strategy Call

The Retirement Dream vs. Reality

By the end of this article, you will clearly understand whether cash value life insurance—such as whole life, variable universal life (VUL), or indexed universal life (IUL)—can sufficiently fund your retirement. We'll explore the advantages and drawbacks of using life insurance as your main retirement tool, emphasize the critical importance of consistent saving, and outline how to effectively integrate life insurance into a comprehensive retirement plan for optimal security and growth.

Furthermore, you’ll understand why no single financial instrument is perfect for everyone, and why a diversified, well-balanced retirement strategy that includes guaranteed income, buffer assets, and growth-oriented investments can lead to lasting financial security and peace of mind.

Is Cash Value Life Insurance Enough for Retirement?

Defining Retirement: What Does It Really Mean?

Many of us grow up envisioning retirement as a milestone where we stop working at age 65 and comfortably live off our accumulated savings. However, this traditional model presents significant challenges. The reality is that you're often expecting 40 years of work to fund potentially 30 or more years of retirement, especially as life expectancy increases.

Rather than viewing retirement as an abrupt halt to working life, a more sustainable approach is to see retirement as a transition to financial independence. Instead of merely accumulating savings, focus on acquiring cash-flowing assets, such as rental properties, dividend-producing stocks, or profitable businesses, which can continuously generate income regardless of market fluctuations.

The Importance of Consistent Savings and Discipline

Bruce emphasizes that consistent saving and disciplined behavior are the foundation of successful retirement planning. Unfortunately, many people fall short in their savings efforts early in life, later attempting to compensate by chasing higher-risk investments for potentially greater returns. This strategy often introduces unnecessary risk precisely when financial security is most critical.

Establishing disciplined savings habits early and maintaining them throughout your career is far more important than selecting the "perfect" financial product. Time and consistency enable compound growth, providing greater financial security in your retirement years than riskier, late-stage investments ever could.

Whole Life vs. VUL and IUL: Stability and Guarantees

If you've ever tried leading a Zoom call while your screen goes black mid-sentence, you know the feeling of being out of control. That’s how many of us feel about our finances right now—like we're one loose cable away from a crash. But here's the truth: financial control is closer than you think. And in today’s global economy, understanding how tariffs impact your wallet is one of the most important steps you can take toward that control.

https://www.youtube.com/live/h01G_m8bLZ8

Tariffs aren't just political decisions or international trade policy. They’re reflections of how governments try to create balance—or power—in global commerce. But more importantly, they create real ripple effects that reach your dinner table, your savings account, your job, and your family’s financial future. This blog unpacks what’s often misunderstood and overly politicized: how tariffs actually impact you, and what you can do about it.

Loose Cords and Loose MarketsWhy Tariffs Are a Bigger Deal Than You RealizeWhat Is a Tariff, Really?The Global Game: Who's Tariffing Whom?How Tariffs Impact Your Wallet: The Ripple Effect on Main StreetWhy Infinite Banking Matters More Than EverAddiction to Consumption: The Root ProblemCapital is King: The Real Asset You NeedWhat This Means for YouGo DeeperBook A Strategy Call

Loose Cords and Loose Markets

I (Rachel) kicked off our latest podcast battling a finicky laptop cord, and Bruce teased me about Lucas not fixing it for years. It was a funny moment, but it carried deeper meaning. Because isn’t that how most people treat their finances? Wiggling a connection, hoping the lights come back on, but never really fixing the root issue.

That feeling of financial "blinking out" is more common than you think—especially when tariffs and stock markets are headlining the news. You hear phrases like "trade war," "GDP contraction," or "market instability," and panic starts to creep in. But that’s why Bruce, Joe, and I sat down—to pull back the curtain and bring clarity to the chaos.

Why Tariffs Are a Bigger Deal Than You Realize

Tariffs aren’t just a headline. They directly affect your cost of living, your investment portfolio, the strength of the business you work for, and even the longevity of your retirement plan. It’s all connected.

We broke down what tariffs really are, why they’re used, and how to navigate them strategically so you can:

Stay calm in market turbulence

Make empowered financial decisions with real data

Build real, generational stability that transcends market noise

If you're wondering how tariffs impact your wallet, you're not alone. You're also not powerless. Understanding is the first step to taking action.

What Is a Tariff, Really?

Joe reminded us that tariffs are nothing new. They’re simply taxes imposed on imported goods. Historically, they funded the U.S. government before income taxes ever existed. That’s how essential they once were.

There are three main types:

Per-unit tariffs

Percentage-based tariffs

Compound tariffs

They can seem like just a cost. But the intent, often, is to level the playing field when other countries use low-wage labor, environmental shortcuts, or subsidies to artificially drive down their prices. Tariffs raise the cost of those goods to reflect what they would cost if they were made under more equal conditions.

So when people ask, "Why pay more?" the better question might be: "What are you supporting when you choose cheap?"

The Global Game: Who's Tariffing Whom?

The global playing field isn’t level. Most countries impose heavy tariffs on U.S. exports, while the U.S. has traditionally kept the door open wide.

For instance, Australia sold $29 billion in beef to the U.S., but the U.S. sold zero to Australia due to their sky-high tariffs. Our market welcomes their goods, but they protect theirs from ours. That creates a one-way street—and it impacts more than foreign relations. It hits U.S.

If you’ve been researching Infinite Banking, you’ve probably heard it described as "tax-free." That phrase is thrown around a lot, and while it sounds great, it’s not entirely accurate. The reality is a bit more nuanced, and understanding the details can make a massive difference in how you leverage Infinite Banking for long-term wealth building. Is Infinite Banking tax-free? Not exactly. But it is incredibly tax-advantaged.

Tax implications can have a significant impact on financial strategies, and one of the biggest myths in the Infinite Banking space is that it's completely tax-free. While Infinite Banking does provide incredible tax advantages, there are specific rules you must follow to maintain those benefits. Failing to do so could create unnecessary tax liabilities, and that’s what we want to help you avoid.

In today’s conversation, Bruce and I want to clear up some common misconceptions and ensure that you’re not just chasing tax savings at the expense of a sound financial strategy. Let’s dive into the truth behind the tax advantages of whole life insurance and how to use them correctly.

The Tax-Free Myth & the Road to Financial ClarityIs Infinite Banking Tax-Free?Infinite Banking Is a Concept, Not a ProductWhole Life Insurance Is Tax-Advantaged, Not Tax-FreeThe Modified Endowment Contract (MEC) RuleChasing Tax Benefits Can Lead to Bad Financial DecisionsThe Right Way to Use Infinite Banking for Maximum BenefitKey TakeawaysBook A Strategy Call

The Tax-Free Myth & the Road to Financial Clarity

Infinite Banking is a powerful strategy for taking control of your finances, but misinformation can lead people down the wrong path. Today, we’re going to break down the key components of how taxation works within Infinite Banking, the rules you need to follow, and why chasing tax benefits alone is not the best financial decision. By the end, you’ll understand how to structure your policy correctly to maximize its benefits without falling into common pitfalls.

Additionally, we’ll explore why taxation should not be the sole focus when implementing Infinite Banking. Tax strategies should always serve a greater financial goal, such as maintaining liquidity, optimizing cash flow, and ensuring long-term financial stability. If you prioritize tax benefits over the overall structure of your wealth plan, you could end up making suboptimal choices that limit your financial freedom.

Is Infinite Banking Tax-Free?

Infinite Banking Is a Concept, Not a Product

First, let’s clear up a critical misunderstanding: Infinite Banking is not a financial product. It’s a process for controlling your cash flow using a properly designed whole life insurance policy.

The confusion often arises because people equate the strategy of Infinite Banking with the tax treatment of whole life insurance. But the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC) itself does not have a tax status—it’s just a method of managing your money. The tax advantages come from the underlying financial tool: a specially designed whole life insurance policy with a mutual company.

Understanding the distinction between process and product is crucial. The Infinite Banking process allows you to take control of the banking function in your financial life, reducing dependence on traditional financial institutions. This process remains valid regardless of tax treatment. However, the product used to execute this process—whole life insurance—has specific tax advantages, which we will discuss next.

Whole Life Insurance Is Tax-Advantaged, Not Tax-Free

A properly structured whole life insurance policy has three major tax advantages:

Tax-Deferred Growth – Your cash value accumulates without immediate taxation, meaning you’re not taxed on the growth each year.

Tax-Free Loans – When you borrow against your policy, it’s not considered taxable income because it’s a loan, not a withdrawal.

Income Tax-Free Death Benefit – The death benefit is paid to your benefic...

Imagine sitting in a room full of financial professionals, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders, all gathered with a shared mission—to gain clarity, deepen understanding, and refine strategies for implementing Infinite Banking. That’s exactly what happened at the Nelson Nash Institute Think Tank 2025, and today, we’re sharing the most impactful takeaways with you.

https://www.youtube.com/live/qTqZo7AvS88

Bruce and Becca just got back from this annual gathering, where the best minds in Infinite Banking come together to ensure that Nelson Nash’s legacy remains strong and relevant. I (Rachel) wasn’t able to attend in person this year, but listening to their insights and stories makes me even more eager to go in the future. If you’ve ever wondered how to simplify the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC) and use it effectively in today’s financial climate, you’ll want to read on.

What is the Nelson Nash Institute Think Tank? And Why Does It Matter?1. Do Simple Better2. Think Long Range and Don’t Be Afraid to Capitalize3. Don’t Do Business with Banks4. Differentiate Between the Process and the Product5. The Role of Whole Life Insurance vs. IUL (Indexed Universal Life)Take Control of Your Financial FutureBook A Strategy Call

What is the Nelson Nash Institute Think Tank? And Why Does It Matter?

If you’re not familiar, the Think Tank is an annual conference hosted by the Nelson Nash Institute (NNI). It’s designed for authorized practitioners, students of Infinite Banking, and selected clients who want to understand the deeper nuances of IBC. It’s not just a networking event—it’s a mastermind of like-minded individuals dedicated to financial autonomy.

Nelson Nash started this event over 20 years ago as a way to keep the message pure—to prevent the Infinite Banking Concept from being diluted or sensationalized. Unfortunately, we see confusion in the marketplace today, with different variations of Infinite Banking being promoted under flashy names like “accelerated banking” or “infinite wealth systems.” The Think Tank exists to bring clarity and help authorized practitioners share the true power of Infinite Banking with their clients.

Here’s what we learned this year:

1. Do Simple Better

One of the key messages from this year’s Think Tank was keeping the concept simple. Too often, people overcomplicate Infinite Banking, adding unnecessary complexity that confuses clients.

One common example? The language we use.

Bruce pointed out a pet peeve of his—calling policy premiums “deposits.” Some advisors use this terminology because they think clients will shut down if they hear the word “premium.” But this causes confusion. A premium is not a bank deposit. It’s a strategic payment into a life insurance policy that provides long-term benefits. When we use clear, honest language, we empower people to make informed decisions.

The key takeaway: Clarity leads to confidence. If you want to succeed with Infinite Banking, simplify the process, use the right terminology, and avoid unnecessary complexity.

2. Think Long Range and Don’t Be Afraid to Capitalize

One of the biggest mistakes people make with Infinite Banking is short-term thinking. Nelson Nash emphasized the importance of capitalization—funding your policy properly so you can reap the benefits later.

At the Think Tank, Bruce and Becca discussed the trend of minimizing base premiums to maximize early cash value. While this might seem attractive at first, it contradicts the foundational principles of IBC. A well-funded policy—one with an appropriate base premium—is what creates sustainable, long-term growth.

Becca shared a powerful insight: “Your behavior matters more than the product.” The Infinite Banking Concept isn’t just about whole life insurance—it’s about how you use it. If you’re not willing to think long-term and capitalize your system, you won’t see the full benefits.

3. Don’t Do Business with Banks

What does it take to build a life of true success? Not just financial wealth, but success in all areas—business, family, health, faith, and relationships? If you've ever felt like you're hitting a ceiling in one or more areas of your life, this is for you.

https://www.youtube.com/live/nog4jnlRM1Q

In a recent episode of The Money Advantage Podcast, Bruce and I had the privilege of speaking with Chaz Wolfe, a serial entrepreneur and founder of Gathering the Kings. Chaz isn’t just about building businesses—he’s about building an exceptional life, where success isn’t limited to financial growth but extends to every dimension of life. And today, we’re sharing the most powerful takeaways from that conversation to help you do the same.

Who is Chaz WolfeThe Key to Sustainable Success: Winning in All AreasThe Difference Between a Business Owner and an EntrepreneurObsession, Drive, and the Relentless Pursuit of MoreFear vs. Freedom: The Mindset Shift You Need to SucceedScaling Success: The Power of People, Relationships, and StrategyRaising the Next Generation of LeadersTake Action: Building an Exceptional LifeBook A Strategy Call

Who is Chaz Wolfe

Chaz Wolfe has built, purchased & sold multiple 7-figure ventures in franchising, home service, real estate, and consulting. He's an operations & process maximizer and an award-winning sales and business mind.  As a dynamic leader, facilitator & speaker, he has helped both domestic and international organizations achieve massive levels of growth in all areas of life!

The Key to Sustainable Success: Winning in All Areas

Chaz made a powerful statement early in our conversation: Winning is not about being perfect, it’s about pushing for the next level. Many entrepreneurs focus entirely on their business, often at the expense of their health, marriage, or personal fulfillment. But what if the key to true wealth isn’t just in making more money, but in building an exceptional life?

He introduced the concept of the “Dimensions of Kingship,” where winning in business is just one piece of the puzzle. True success means firing on all cylinders—faith, finances, business, marriage, health, and lifestyle.

The Difference Between a Business Owner and an Entrepreneur

Bruce raised a crucial point: Many people start businesses because they want to escape a traditional job, but they don’t necessarily become entrepreneurs. Instead, they end up owning a job rather than building a scalable business.

The difference? Entrepreneurs continuously innovate. They don’t just work in their business—they work on it, constantly refining their offerings, improving systems, and creating freedom for themselves and their teams. If you feel stuck in your business, it may be time to ask yourself: Am I building a true enterprise, or am I just working for myself?

Obsession, Drive, and the Relentless Pursuit of More

One of the standout moments of our conversation was when Chaz spoke about obsession. Entrepreneurs aren’t just people who want to make money; they’re people who need to build, create, and achieve more. It’s not about being discontent—it’s about being grateful but not done.

That drive is what separates those who thrive from those who stagnate. Successful people don’t settle. They push for the next level, not just in business, but in their relationships, personal growth, and impact on the world. And that mindset shift—of always aiming for the next level—can be the most powerful catalyst for growth.

Fear vs. Freedom: The Mindset Shift You Need to Succeed

Fear is one of the biggest barriers to success. It keeps people from taking risks, investing in themselves, and making bold moves in business and life. But here’s the truth: The most successful entrepreneurs aren’t fearless—they just act in spite of their fear.

Bruce made an incredible point: Our financial industry has conditioned people to believe in a finite endpoint—retirement.

Have you ever stopped to question how money really moves in your life? Most of us are so accustomed to the financial system we’ve been handed that we don’t even recognize its limitations. From an early age, we’re trained to earn, spend, and save in ways that benefit traditional banks and lenders—not us. What if, instead of being at the mercy of banks, you could take control of the banking function in your own life?

https://www.youtube.com/live/0e0KXMmF1po

The truth is, every dollar you earn is subject to a financial system that prioritizes someone else’s interests. Whether you’re financing a car, a home, or even everyday purchases, banks and financial institutions control the flow of money—and they profit from it. But what if you could flip the script?

The Financial System You Didn't Know You Were Stuck InWhy You Need to Rethink How Money WorksThe Infinite Banking Concept: Owning Your Financial SystemOvercoming the Challenges of Transitioning to Your Own Banking SystemBook A Strategy Call & Take Control of the Banking Function In Your Life

The Financial System You Didn't Know You Were Stuck In

What many people don’t realize is that the current system isn’t just inefficient—it actively works against you. The more you rely on banks, the more they dictate the terms of your financial future. You are charged interest on loans, earn minimal returns on savings, and face restrictions on how and when you can access your money. Over time, these limitations compound, creating a financial environment where you’re always a step behind. But it doesn’t have to be this way. When you take control of the banking function, you can shift the balance of power and ensure that your financial decisions benefit you first, not the institutions profiting from your hard-earned dollars.

The truth is, every dollar you earn is subject to a financial system that prioritizes someone else’s interests. Whether you’re financing a car, a home, or even everyday purchases, banks and financial institutions control the flow of money—and they profit from it. But what if you could flip the script? What if, instead of being at the mercy of banks, you could take control of the banking function in your own life?

Why You Need to Rethink How Money Works

Most people focus on interest rates when thinking about financial decisions, but volume matters more than rate. You might be getting 10% return on investments, but if 30-40% of your income is going toward financing costs, your wealth is leaking away.

Traditional banking is designed to keep you dependent. You work hard to earn, but your income flows right back out to pay lenders, banks, and financial institutions. They benefit from your money while you get what’s left. This system isn’t set up for you to win—it’s designed for them to profit off of your financial decisions.

Now, imagine if you could redirect those financing costs back into your own system. Instead of paying interest to banks, you could recapture that money and put it to work for yourself, building real, lasting wealth. That’s the power of Infinite Banking.

The Infinite Banking Concept: Owning Your Financial System

The Infinite Banking Concept is about more than just using whole life insurance. It’s about creating your own banking system, where you are in control. Here’s how it works:

Instead of borrowing from a traditional lender, you use cash value from a properly designed whole life insurance policy.

You control the terms of your loans—how much, when, and how you repay.

Your money continues to grow even while you’re using it, thanks to uninterrupted compound interest.

You recapture the interest that you would have otherwise paid to a bank or lender.

With Infinite Banking, you no longer need permission to access your own money. You no longer have to justify your financial decisions to a bank. You have complete autonomy over your capital, allowing you to fund major purchases, invest,

Imagine waking up one day to find that everything around you—groceries, gas, housing—costs significantly more than it did yesterday. Your savings, your income, and everything you’ve worked hard to build are suddenly worth less in terms of purchasing power. This is the harsh reality of inflation, a silent wealth destroyer that erodes the value of your money over time. That’s exactly why we sat down with Rich Checkan, an expert in precious metals, to uncover the truth about gold as the ultimate wealth insurance.

https://www.youtube.com/live/GEIorn2GMJ0

If you’ve ever wondered how to protect your financial future against inflation, economic downturns, and government overreach, this is the conversation you need to hear.

Why Gold Matters Now More Than EverGold as the Ultimate Wealth InsuranceGold is Money, Not Just an InvestmentWhy Governments and Central Banks Hoard GoldGold as an Inflation ShieldHow Infinite Banking Enhances Gold OwnershipHow to Buy and Store Gold the Right WayHow Much Gold Should You Own?The Power of Gold and Infinite Banking for Wealth ProtectionGold Price and the U.S. Money SupplyBook A Strategy Call

Why Gold Matters Now More Than Ever

In today’s uncertain economic climate, many people focus solely on stocks, bonds, and real estate, overlooking one of the most time-tested and reliable assets—gold. Unlike paper currency, which loses value due to inflation, gold retains purchasing power, offering stability when other investments fail.

In this article, we’ll break down the key insights from our conversation with Rich Checkan, exploring why gold is not just an investment but a financial insurance policy. You’ll learn:

Why gold has been the go-to store of value for centuries

How it protects your wealth against inflation and economic crises

The best ways to buy and store gold

How gold and Infinite Banking work together to build liquidity and long-term wealth

Practical steps you can take today to integrate gold into your wealth strategy

If you’re serious about taking control of your financial future, keep reading.

Gold as the Ultimate Wealth Insurance

Gold is Money, Not Just an Investment

One of the biggest misconceptions about gold is that it’s just another commodity. The truth? Gold has been used as real money for thousands of years. Unlike fiat currencies, which governments print at will, gold cannot be artificially created. It’s scarce, tangible, and universally recognized as a store of value.

Rich Checkan explained that gold serves as a hedge against inflation because its value rises when paper money loses purchasing power. Unlike the U.S. dollar, which has lost over 98% of its value since the creation of the Federal Reserve, gold has maintained its purchasing power. A century ago, an ounce of gold could buy a quality suit, and today, it still can.

Why Governments and Central Banks Hoard Gold

Ever wonder why central banks around the world continue to stockpile gold? If gold was just another asset, why would the most powerful financial institutions be accumulating it? The answer is simple: gold is the ultimate form of money.

Rich highlighted that countries like China, Russia, and India have been increasing their gold reserves to reduce dependence on the U.S. dollar. This move signals a shift away from fiat currency dominance and an acknowledgment that gold is a necessary safeguard against economic uncertainty.

Gold as an Inflation Shield

Inflation is silently eroding the purchasing power of your savings. When governments print money excessively, the value of each dollar declines, making everything more expensive—from groceries to housing. Gold, on the other hand, maintains its value because it’s not tied to any single economy or government policy.

Rich emphasized that holding gold is like having an insurance policy against inflation. It doesn’t rely on the performance of the stock market or interest rates. Instead,

Turn financing costs into a financial tailwind by changing the way you think about money. Flying is an amazing experience. But have you ever noticed that when you fly west, your flight takes longer than when you fly east? That’s because of the jet stream—a strong, high-altitude wind that either pushes you forward or slows you down. The difference can be significant, sometimes cutting travel time by 40 minutes or more.

https://www.youtube.com/live/fK26dobWr7M

This same principle applies to your financial life. Most people unknowingly operate with a financial headwind, paying interest and financing charges that slow them down. But what if you could turn financing costs into a financial tailwind, propelling your financial progress forward? That’s exactly what Nelson Nash discusses in Becoming Your Own Banker, and today, I want to walk you through how to harness this power for yourself.

What You’ll Gain from ThisThe Financial Headwind: Where Are You Losing Money?Turn Financing Costs into a Financial Tailwind with Infinite BankingPolicy Design: Building the Right PlaneThe Key Takeaway: IBC Allows You to Turn Financing Costs into a Financial TailwindBook A Strategy CallExternal Resources:

What You’ll Gain from This

By the end of this article, you’ll understand:

Why financing costs are a major drag on your financial growth.

How to rethink your approach to banking.

How to use life insurance to create a financial tailwind.

How to apply these principles step-by-step.

The Financial Headwind: Where Are You Losing Money?

Most people don’t realize just how much of their income is lost to financing charges. Nelson Nash estimated that, on average, 34.5% of a person’s income goes toward interest payments on mortgages, car loans, credit cards, and other debts. That’s a third of your income going out the back door, working against you instead of for you.

Think about it this way: if you’re saving 10% of your income but losing 34.5% to interest payments, you’re moving backward financially. It’s like flying against a 345-mph headwind with an engine that only pushes you forward at 100 mph. You’ll never reach your destination efficiently.

Turn Financing Costs into a Financial Tailwind with Infinite Banking

Infinite Banking flips this model upside down. Instead of paying third-party financial institutions, you redirect those financing costs back into your own system. Here’s how it works:

Capitalization: Think Long Range

Infinite Banking isn’t a short-term strategy; it’s about building financial control for the rest of your life.

Just like a plane needs enough fuel to take off and reach cruising altitude, you need to capitalize your banking system with properly structured whole life insurance policies.

Eliminate the Headwind: Recapturing Interest

Every dollar you pay in interest is a dollar you no longer control. By financing through your own policy, you keep the money in your system.

Your money continues compounding, even while you use it.

Build Momentum: The Power of a Tailwind

As your policy grows, your access to capital increases.

Instead of constantly borrowing from banks and paying them interest, you borrow from yourself, recapture the interest, and reinvest it.

This creates a snowball effect where your wealth accelerates, just like a plane gaining efficiency as it reaches altitude.

Policy Design: Building the Right Plane

Not all policies are created equal. If you want your financial airplane to perform at the highest level, you need the right design. Here are the key components:

Premium Structure

Base Premium: The foundation of your policy, providing long-term sustainability.

Paid-Up Additions (PUAs): These turbocharge your cash value growth and liquidity.

Convertible Term Riders: These allow for future expansion without additional underwriting.

Long-Term Commitment

Short-term thinking leads to inefficient policies.

Imagine walking into a grand bank building with marble floors, high ceilings, and neatly dressed bankers eager to assist you. You deposit your hard-earned money, confident that it is safe and growing. But have you ever stopped to ask yourself—where is the bank? What role does it actually play in your financial future?

https://www.youtube.com/live/LFaf2iEnh94

This question is at the heart of today’s discussion on the Money Advantage podcast. It’s one that often comes up when people first learn about Infinite Banking. Where is the bank in Infinite Banking? How can you call it banking if there’s no traditional bank involved?

If you’ve ever wondered whether Infinite Banking is a legitimate financial strategy or if it’s just another buzzword in the financial world, we’re here to clear up the confusion. Let’s dive into what banking really is and how you can take control of it in your own life.

Challenging the Conventional View of BankingThe Truth About BankingWhy Do Banks Exist?The Three Core Functions of BankingWhere is the Bank in Infinite Banking?Why Infinite Banking Puts You in ControlBringing It All TogetherBook A Strategy Call

Challenging the Conventional View of Banking

Banking is more than a place—it’s a process. Understanding how money moves, who controls it, and who profits from it is the key to financial freedom. In this article, we’ll break down the fundamentals of banking, explain why Infinite Banking is not about replacing your local bank but rather about reclaiming control over the banking function in your life, and show you how you can apply these principles to build lasting wealth.

By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand:

Where is the bank in Infinite Banking?

Why banks exist and how they make money

The three core functions of banking that you can take control of

How you can mimic the banking function using whole life insurance

Why this approach provides more financial security, liquidity, and flexibility than traditional banking

Why this strategy can serve as a foundational pillar in long-term wealth creation

Let’s get started.

The Truth About Banking

Why Do Banks Exist?

To answer the question of: 'where is the bank', we must first understand why banks exist in the first place. Historically, banks were created as safe places to store money—often in the form of gold—so individuals wouldn’t have to worry about protecting it themselves. Over time, banks realized they could make money by lending out deposits at interest, and thus, the modern banking system was born.

Today, banks don’t just hold your money; they use it to make more money. They pay you a small interest rate on deposits while charging much higher interest rates on loans. This spread—the difference between what they pay and what they charge—is how banks make money.

But what if you could take control of this process yourself? What if you could become your own bank and keep those profits within your financial system? That’s where Infinite Banking comes in.

The problem with traditional banking is that it benefits financial institutions, not consumers. Every time you deposit money into a bank, you are allowing them to use your funds to generate revenue, while you receive minimal interest in return.

The Three Core Functions of Banking

To understand Infinite Banking, you need to first understand what banks actually do. Banks provide three key functions:

Facilitating Transactions: They allow money to move between people and businesses through checking accounts, debit cards, and payment processing.

Storing Capital: They provide a place to hold money safely (or at least, that’s what they want you to believe).

Providing Financing: They lend money and earn interest on those loans, which is their primary profit source.

The goal of becoming your own banker is not to replace the transactional role of banks—you’ll still use them for daily spending. Instead,