In this episode, John and Tom are joined by Jared Trexler, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing & Strategy Officer at The American College of Financial Services, to discuss why education and specialization matter more than ever in the financial world. They explore how a well-educated advisor can deliver deeper, more personalized planning- especially in areas like tax, estate, and retirement income strategy- and why consumers should understand the difference between generalists and true specialists. Jared also shares insights into The American College’s mission to elevate the profession through lifelong learning, new certifications such as the Tax Planning Certified Professional program, and a growing public campaign to help consumers identify qualified advisors.

Important Info:

Securus Financial: https://www.gosecurus.com/

International Financial Advisory Group: https://www.internationalfinancial.com/

Call John: (858) 758-9889

Call Thomas: (973) 394-0623

This episode, John and Tom are joined once again by Mark DiOrio - Chief Investment Officer at Brookstone Capital Management - to unpack the fast-moving markets of 2025. They discuss volatility, tariffs, interest rates, and the role of alternative investments like gold, crypto, and structured notes. Mark also shares insights on inflation, the bond market, and the long-term impact of AI and semiconductors on the economy. Plus, you'll hear his outlook for the markets over the next year!

Important Info:

Securus Financial: https://www.gosecurus.com/

International Financial Advisory Group: https://www.internationalfinancial.com/

Call John: (858) 758-9889

Call Thomas: (973) 394-0623

We're joined once again by America's IRA expert, Ed Slott, to unpack the “One Big Beautiful Bill” and the new opportunities it offers for tax-savvy retirees. Ed breaks down how temporary expansions in SALT deductions, strategic use of Roth conversions, and thoughtful estate planning- including tools like permanent life insurance and qualified charitable distributions- can help reduce your tax burden and protect your legacy. We also cover common retirement tax myths and how to prepare for rising tax rates with smart, forward-looking planning.

About Ed Slott & Company

Important Info:

Securus Financial: https://www.gosecurus.com/

International Financial Advisory Group: https://www.internationalfinancial.com/

Call John: (858) 758-9889

Call Thomas: (973) 394-0623

In this episode of the Retire Happy Podcast, John and Tom sit down with Matt Burklund, CEO of Vault Insurance & Investments, for a timely conversation about what’s really happening in the world of property and casualty insurance. As rates skyrocket and carriers pull out of key markets like California and Florida, Matt breaks down why the industry is under so much pressure and what that means for everyday homeowners. Matt also shares practical, actionable tips you can use today to reduce your risk, shop smart, and better protect your wealth.

Learn more about Matt:

https://www.choosevault.com/team/MattBurklund

Important Info:

Securus Financial: https://www.gosecurus.com/

International Financial Advisory Group: https://www.internationalfinancial.com/

Call John: (858) 758-9889

Call Thomas: (973) 394-0623

It's hard to believe we're celebrating the 100th episode of the Retire Happy Podcast today! As we reflect on the great memories we've made, we also look ahead to the future. Joining us in celebration is a third-time returning guest, Dean Zayed, JD, LLM, CFP®, an expert in retirement planning and the CEO and founder of Brookstone Capital Management himself. We're thrilled to have him on the show today to celebrate Brookstone's journey and discuss the culture that drives its success.

Important Info:

Securus Financial: https://www.gosecurus.com/

International Financial Advisory Group: https://www.internationalfinancial.com/

Call John: (858) 758-9889

Call Thomas: (973) 394-0623

In this special episode of The Retire Happy Podcast, we’re joined by Joe Casey, CEO and co-founder of Catalyst Wealth Coaching and host of the 6-Figure Trader Podcast. Joe is a remarkable investment mentor whose expertise has transformed the lives of countless advisors and their clients. Having studied blockchain and crypto investing at MIT and dedicated years to understanding institutional strategies, we're excited to hear some of his market insights today.

We would also like to dedicate this episode to our mentor and friend, David Gaylor, whose wisdom and impact on the financial planning community will never be forgotten. 

Episode Links:

Catalyst Wealth Coaching

https://www.catalystwealthcoaching.com/

6 Figure Trader Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/6-figure-trader-podcast/id1778529840

Important Info:

Securus Financial: https://www.gosecurus.com/

International Financial Advisory Group: https://www.internationalfinancial.com/

Call John: (858) 758-9889

Call Thomas: (973) 394-0623

In this episode, John and Thomas sit down with Matt Lovett, Chief Compliance Officer at Brookstone Capital Management, to explore the crucial role compliance plays in financial advising. With over 30 years of experience, Matt shares how fiduciary advisors prioritize transparency, rigorous product evaluation, and regulatory adherence to protect clients' interests. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the processes that keep your investments secure and aligned with your financial goals!

Important Info:

Securus Financial: https://www.gosecurus.com/

International Financial Advisory Group: https://www.internationalfinancial.com/

Call John: (858) 758-9889

Call Thomas: (973) 394-0623

In this episode, John and Thomas sit down with Matt Lovett, Chief Compliance Officer at Brookstone Capital Management, to explore the crucial role compliance plays in financial advising. With over 30 years of experience, Matt shares how fiduciary advisors prioritize transparency, rigorous product evaluation, and regulatory adherence to protect clients' interests. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the processes that keep your investments secure and aligned with your financial goals!

Important Info:

Securus Financial: https://www.gosecurus.com/

International Financial Advisory Group: https://www.internationalfinancial.com/

Call John: (858) 758-9889

Call Thomas: (973) 394-0623

In this episode of the Retire Happy Podcast, we’re joined by Bruce Wehner, Chief Cash Flow Strategist and lead advisor for e3 Wealth, to explore the high-level considerations of oil and gas investments as a potential tax mitigation strategy. While these investments carry a significant degree of risk, Bruce offers insights into how they can fit into broader tax planning and financial management strategies. Tune in for a great overview of the benefits, risks, and key questions to discuss with your financial team before considering this area of investing.

e3 Wealth

https://e3wealth.com/

Important Info:

Securus Financial: https://www.gosecurus.com/

International Financial Advisory Group: https://www.internationalfinancial.com/

Call John: (858) 758-9889

Call Thomas: (973) 394-0623

In this episode, John and Thomas welcome Sheryl Moore, CEO of Wink Intel and author of Why I Bought Indexed Annuities. With over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry, Sheryl specializes in annuities and insurance products. She discusses the various types of annuities available, debunks common myths, and helps us understand their role in a comprehensive retirement plan.

Get your copy of Why I Bought Indexed Annuities HERE

Wink Intel Website:  https://www.winkintel.com/

Important Info:

Securus Financial: https://www.gosecurus.com/

International Financial Advisory Group: https://www.internationalfinancial.com/

Call John: (858) 758-9889

Call Thomas: (973) 394-0623