Tag: SMART MONEY. SIMPLIFIED.
Here’s What Rising Mortgage Rates Mean For Homebuyers with Kim Harris (Ep. 82)

Here’s What Rising Mortgage Rates Mean For Homebuyers with Kim Harris (Ep. 82)

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What do rising mortgage rates and low housing inventory mean for your largest investment? 

How are rising mortgage rates reshaping the housing market today?

This week on Smart. Money. Simplified, Brent Mekosh sits down with Kim Harris, Real Estate Lending Manager at Colorado Credit Union, to discuss the current state of the mortgage market. From rising interest rates to housing affordability, Kim brings over two decades of experience to shed light on these critical issues. 

So, listen in as Brent and Kim explore the differences between now and the 2008 financial crisis while navigating the federal and state policies impacting real estate and examining the role of credit unions in today’s lending environment.

Episode talking points include: 

  • Today’s market conditions compared to the 2008 financial crisis
  • Insights on the current lending restrictions and mortgage rates
  • Ways institutional investors impact housing affordability
  • When might mortgage rates decrease, and its impact on housing prices
  • And more!

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Optimizing Life: Blake Jones on Health, Fitness, and Wellness (Ep. 81)

Optimizing Life: Blake Jones on Health, Fitness, and Wellness (Ep. 81)

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Are you ready to transform your health and optimize your performance in all aspects of life?

Brent Mekosh sits down with Blake Jones, a former nurse turned personal trainer, to discuss the importance of prioritizing health and wellness, even amidst life’s hectic schedules and stress. 

Tune in as Blake unveils his personal journey from dealing with pre-diabetes at 10, battling the COVID-19 crisis in the ICU, to helping professionals and entrepreneurs achieve holistic health through personalized plans. 

Talking points include: 

  • Blake’s journey from a pre-diabetic childhood to becoming a health advocate
  • Challenges faced by healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic
  • The transition from nursing to personal training and holistic health coaching
  • Practical advice on nutrition, exercise, and sustainable health practices
  • And more!

Connect with Blake Jones:

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About Our Guest:

As a registered nurse with a passion for promoting health and wellness, Blake Jones embarked on a unique journey that encompasses a diverse range of roles and responsibilities. Blake began a career in nursing while simultaneously pursuing personal training, combining a love for healthcare and fitness.

When the pandemic emerged, Blake answered the call to serve on the front lines and transitioned into the intensive care unit (ICU). This experience allowed Blake to directly impact the lives of critically ill patients, employing skills to provide exceptional care during challenging times.

However, Blake’s unwavering passion for health coaching and community outreach eventually guided Blake back to where the heart truly lies. Recognizing the importance of preventative care, education, and empowerment in promoting overall well-being, Blake refocused efforts on health coaching and community outreach initiatives, working diligently to empower individuals and communities to lead healthier lifestyles.

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Episode 80 Special: Leveraging AI to Transform Public Safety with Oracle’s Steve Seoane

Episode 80 Special: Leveraging AI to Transform Public Safety with Oracle’s Steve Seoane

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Are you curious about how technology is revolutionizing public safety and law enforcement?

In this milestone episode, Brent Mekosh welcomes Steve Seoane, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Oracle State and Local Government, to discuss the evolving landscape of public safety technology. 

They explore the challenges experienced by law enforcement, the advancements made by Oracle, and the vision for a more efficient and effective public safety system.

Talking points include:

  • Introduction to public safety challenges and the role of technology in addressing these issues
  • Steve’s career journey from the Naval Academy to leading Oracle’s public safety solutions
  • The implementation and benefits of real-time data and AI in law enforcement
  • The future vision of public safety with drones, real-time situational awareness, and advanced command center
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Steve Seoane:

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About Our Guest:

Steve Seoane is senior vice president and general manager of Oracle’s State and Local business unit.  He is responsible for leading a worldwide team in sales, services, product development, R&D, industry strategy, marketing, and support for mission-critical applications and services designed for local government.

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Our Firm’s Evolution: From Broker-Dealer to RIA (Ep. 79)

Our Firm’s Evolution: From Broker-Dealer to RIA (Ep. 79)

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Many believe that the broker-dealer channel and the Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) space are the same, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. 

The real difference lies in their core focus — while one is geared toward sales, the other is deeply rooted in advice, impacting your investment journey vastly.

Brent Mekosh walks you through their strategic move from the broker-dealer world to becoming a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) in this week’s episode of Smart. Money. Simplified.

Listen in and discover the challenges, insights, and unexpected benefits of making such a significant shift in the financial advisory landscape, directly from someone who’s navigated the complexities firsthand.

Brent discusses:

  • His transition from being a broker-dealer to a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) and what is the reasoning behind it
  • The value of merging teams for growth and expanded capabilities
  • How do alternative investments diversify a portfolio beyond traditional stocks and bonds
  • How his clients reacted to this business change
  • The crucial aspects of client communication during these transition times
  • And more!

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Unlocking Human Potential: How Jiu-Jitsu Shapes Character and Mindset with Adam Ideson (Ep. 78)

Unlocking Human Potential: How Jiu-Jitsu Shapes Character and Mindset with Adam Ideson (Ep. 78)

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Did you know that the principles of jiu-jitsu not only apply to martial arts but can also transform your approach to personal and financial growth? 

Through discipline, continuous improvement, and strategic planning, the art of jiu-jitsu mirrors the pathway to achieving financial success.

This week on Smart. Money. Simplified, Brent Mekosh sits down with Adam Ideson, a seasoned jiu-jitsu practitioner and an entrepreneur shaping lives through martial arts. 

Tune in and discover how the principles of jiu-jitsu extend into entrepreneurship, mental health, and character building, offering insights that resonate well beyond the dojo.

Brent and Adam discuss:

  • The roots and philosophy of jiu-jitsu 
  • Ways jiu-jitsu differs from other martial arts
  • How does jiu-jitsu empower individuals to develop self-confidence, discipline, and resilience
  • Perseverance, strategy, and community-building: Lessons martial arts can offer to entrepreneurs
  • How can martial arts education address and combat modern challenges like bullying
  • And more!

Connect with Adam Ideson:

Connect with Brent Mekosh:

About Our Guest:

Adam Ideson has been practicing Gracie Jiu-Jitsu® since 2010. Since his first class, Adam has been captivated by the art. He has dedicated himself to the study of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and sharing this art and lifestyle with others. Adam graduated from the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy Instructor Certification program in 2013.

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Exploring the RIA Space with Nate Lenz (Ep. 77)

Exploring the RIA Space with Nate Lenz (Ep. 77)

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Many believe that the transition from a broker-dealer to a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) space is deeply complex and risky, possibly jeopardizing client relationships. 

However, this move can actually open up a world of opportunities for personalized client service, technology advancement, and business model autonomy,

This week, Brent Mekosh is joined by Nate Lenz, the CEO of Concurrent, to explore the significant advantages this change can bring to your financial planning. 

Brent and Nate delve into the intricate world of financial advising, particularly focusing on the transition from broker-dealer models to the RIA framework.

Episode talking points include:

  • The fundamental differences between broker-dealer models and the RIA setup
  • The enhanced opportunities for personalized financial planning and investment options in the RIA space
  • The role of technology in revolutionizing client service and operational efficiency
  • Strategies for business succession and growth in the evolving landscape of financial advisement
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Nate Lenz:

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About Our Guest:

With over a decade of experience in the financial industry, Nate Lenz is a prominent figure for advisors seeking to unlock their potential as entrepreneurs. Currently serving as the CEO and Co-Founder of Concurrent, an OSJ turned RIA valued at $7 billion, the company was honored as an InvestmentNews Best Place to Work in 2023. Nate and his team are dedicated to collaborating with advisors to facilitate the growth of their independent enterprises.

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True Entrepreneurship: Scaling a Business for Meaningful Impact with Kristen Shroyer (Ep. 76)

True Entrepreneurship: Scaling a Business for Meaningful Impact with Kristen Shroyer (Ep. 76)

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Many believe that quality wine and philanthropy are paths that rarely cross.

ONEHOPE Wine challenges this misconception head-on, proving that every sip can indeed contribute to a greater cause. 

This week on Smart. Money. Simplified, Brent Mekosh is joined by Kristen Shroyer, Co-Founder and Chief Impact Officer at ONEHOPE Wine. Together they uncork the journey of turning a passion for wine into a powerful force for global change. 

Tune in and explore Kristen’s entrepreneurial adventure in the wine industry, the challenges and breakthroughs of scaling a business, and how each bottle of wine sold contributes to meaningful causes worldwide.

Talking points include: 

  • The origins and mission of ONEHOPE Wine
  • Overcoming industry challenges and the transition to an independent RIA space
  • The importance of aligning business with philanthropy
  • Insights into entrepreneurship and growing a purpose-driven brand
  • And more!

Connect with Kristen Shroyer:

Connect with Brent Mekosh:

About Our Guest:

Kristen Shroyer is a highly accomplished and committed executive with over 16 years of extensive experience in the wine industry. As the Co-Founder of ONEHOPE Wine, Kristen has a proven track record in building and nurturing partnerships, empowering women through wine, leading marketing initiatives, and driving sales strategies. She is passionate about combining business growth with positive social impact, with over $10 million donated to over 40,000 nonprofits to date. 

Kristen is skilled in leading diverse teams and managing national accounts. Dedicated to giving back to the community, she serves in various volunteer roles and has been recognized with numerous honors and awards for her contributions to the industry and community.

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Dream Big: Transforming Vision into Market Leading Products with Victor Mason (Ep. 75)

Dream Big: Transforming Vision into Market Leading Products with Victor Mason (Ep. 75)

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Have you ever wondered how one dream can transform into a revolutionary product, changing industries from sports to law enforcement? 

This week on SMART MONEY. SIMPLIFIED, Brent Mekosh is joined by visionary inventor and entrepreneur Victor Mason, the CEO of PowerZone. 

Their discussion unfurls around Victor’s journey from conceiving an idea inspired by a dream to bringing complex and innovative products to the market. 

Tune in as they also reflect on the intersections of invention, entrepreneurship, and the broader financial landscape that supports or inhibits breakthroughs!

Episode talking points include:

  • Victor’s transition from sound-based mini basketball backboards to wearable tech for sports injuries
  • How has PowerZone’s tech evolved and what are its applications
  • Insights into entrepreneurship and product development
  • What’s the philosophical view on fostering and financing industry-redefining inventions
  • And more!

Connect with Victor Mason:

Connect with Brent Mekosh:

About Our Guest:

Victor Mason is a creative entrepreneur who recognizes opportunities and develops successful businesses and products that bring enjoyment to life whether toys for kids or high-end luxury vehicles for adults. Victor is experienced in creating, engineering, and manufacturing original products and in developing sales in the domestic and international markets. He’s a well-established connector of people who brings value to others through his personal motivation and energy as well as by facilitating relationships among like-minded professionals.

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The Impact of Financial Landscapes on Global Economies with Brad Rutan (Ep. 74)

The Impact of Financial Landscapes on Global Economies with Brad Rutan (Ep. 74)

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How do changing financial landscapes impact global economies and individual investors? How can understanding economic trends lead to better-informed financial decisions?

Listen in as Brent Mekosh speaks with Brad Rutan, Managing Director and Market Strategist at MFS Investment Management. This week, Brad covers the intricacies of bond markets, interest rates, and inflation while unveiling the profound influence these factors have on economic landscapes and investment strategies. 

Brent and Brad discuss:

  • Ways central bank policies influence bond markets and economic stability
  • The opportunities and challenges associated with different types of bond investments
  • How can understanding economic trends enhance the effectiveness of financial decision-making
  • The impact municipal bonds have upon local economies and investment strategies
  • And more!

Connect with Brad Rutan:

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About Our Guest:

Bradford T. Rutan, CFA, is an investment product specialist and managing director leading the retail fixed-income product effort on a global basis at MFS Investment Management.  He works closely with the portfolio management teams and is responsible for communicating the investment philosophy, process, and positioning of MFS fixed-income investment strategies, as well as communicating investment perspectives to financial advisors, institutional clients, and MFS’ sales force and relationship managers.

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The BrEpic Transformation: Embracing Change in Careers and Relationships with Justin & Sarah Breen (Ep. 73)

The BrEpic Transformation: Embracing Change in Careers and Relationships with Justin & Sarah Breen (Ep. 73)

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Have you been considering a career change? Looking to turn your vision of entrepreneurship into a reality? Discover the considerations to take when transitioning to a new career path from someone who has already done it.

Listen in as Brent Mekosh and his guests Justin Breen, founder and CEO of BrEpic, and Sarah Breen, COO of BrEpic, share their backgrounds and how they transitioned from divergent fields to create a powerful network, BrEpic.

 From Justin’s background in journalism and marketing to Sarah’s medical expertise, the couple’s journey is a testament to adaptability and fearlessness in pursuing new opportunities. 

Justin and Sarah discuss:

  • The importance of adaptability when navigating challenges and seizing opportunities
  • How strong family ties and balanced dynamics can impact your professional endeavors
  • Benefits of real human relationships regardless of physical proximity
  • Traditional gender roles and financial dynamics within relationships
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Justin and Sarah Breen:

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About Our Guests:

Justin Breen is the Founder and CEO of BrEpic Communications LLC, a PR firm that works exclusively with visionaries and exceptional businesses around the world. He’s built an international network of extraordinary people because he strongly believes in the power of introductions and the importance of creating relationships through networking.

Justin is the author of Epic Business and Epic Life. He enjoys running, fishing, and watching baseball with his two sons and his wife, Sarah.

Dr. Sarah Breen is a board-certified pediatrician who’s been practicing general pediatrics in the north suburbs of Chicago since 2011. After being fully immersed in the entrepreneur world by her husband (co-founder, Justin Breen), Sarah fell in love with BrEpic Network and became its Chief Operating Officer in 2023.

Sarah enjoys spending time with her two sons, exercising her three doodles, and traveling the world with her husband, Justin.

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