Tag: Evan Wohl

The Current Financial State with Jennifer Fox, V.P of Federal Affairs at Finseca

The Current Financial State with Jennifer Fox, V.P of Federal Affairs at Finseca

With the federal deficit nearing $2 trillion, understanding how these numbers impact your financial future has never been more critical.

Join Evan Wohl as he chats with Jennifer Fox, Vice President of Federal Affairs at Finseca, about the current financial state of the U.S. economy and its political implications. Facing heightened interest rates, substantial federal deficits, and upcoming tax reforms, they explore how these challenges can shape the financial landscape. You will gain insights into the current state of Social Security, Medicare, and strategies to manage long-term care costs, along with understanding the key economic discussions that will influence the 2025 presidential race.

Evan and Jennifer discuss:

  • Jennifer’s background and day to day operations at Finseca.
  • The impact of interest rates on the federal deficit and budget.
  • Possible financial issues facing the country over the coming decades. 
  • The importance of planning for long-term care and baby boomer preparedness.
  • The tax law sunsetting in 2026 and its possible impact on the upcoming election.
  • And more

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Jennifer Fox:

About Jennifer Fox:

Jennifer Fox is the Vice President of Federal Affairs at Finseca. She leads their lobbying initiatives, advocating for policies that support the financial security profession and educating policymakers and their staff on the importance of comprehensive financial planning, encompassing life insurance, retirement planning, and investments, to serve clients effectively. 

Jen led Finseca’s political advocacy initiatives, which included the Ambassador Program, fly-ins, and political fundraising, including Finseca’s PAC. She is committed to assisting members in becoming politically involved and empowering them to share their stories. 

Jen has spent time at the White House and Capitol Hill, which has helped shape her knowledge of small business, technology, labor, and tax issues. She also serves as the President of The Advocacy Association.

REPLAY: Planning For Retirement: Social Security and Medicare with Elaine Floyd

REPLAY: Planning For Retirement: Social Security and Medicare with Elaine Floyd

In today’s episode of WealthStyle, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl interview Elaine Floyd, Director of Retirement Life Planning at HorsesMouth about the intricacies of our nation’s support systems; Social Security and Medicare.

Listen as Elaine shares her expert knowledge by debunking some common misconceptions and detailing the benefits these programs provide using real-life examples and historical facts. 

Whether you’re approaching retirement, caring for a loved one, or simply curious about recent changes and restrictions regarding Social Security and Medicare, this episode is a must-listen!

Gain insight as Elaine discusses:

  • The importance of accessing your retirement income plan for the duration of your lifetime
  • Common mistakes people make when claiming Social Security, and the varying spousal benefits
  • The differences between Medicare Part A and Part B
  • How to navigate your options regarding your Health Savings Account (HSA) and Medicare
  • And more

Resources:

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Elaine Floyd:

Bitcoin Breakdown: Benefits, Risks, and Common Misconceptions

Bitcoin Breakdown: Benefits, Risks, and Common Misconceptions

Curious about Bitcoin but overwhelmed by the noise? Get ready to unravel the complexities of the world’s most talked-about cryptocurrency.

Evan Wohl and Iván Watanabe invite Chet Schwartz, RICP®, a financial advisor at Strategies for Wealth, to demystify Bitcoin. Chet explains how cryptocurrency works, how it differs from traditional fiat currencies, and key benefits and risks that crypto investors should know about.

Watch this episode on our YouTube channel!

Iván, Evan, and Chet discuss:

  • Common terminology related to Bitcoin and blockchain technology
  • What it means to have a decentralized, permissionless network
  • How Bitcoin’s finite supply can potentially contribute to an anti-inflationary environment
  • Cryptocurrency as an asset class in a diversified portfolio
  • Future outlook for Bitcoin’s global adoption
  • And more

Connect with Chet Schwartz:

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

About Chet Schwartz

Chet’s purpose is to transform and evolve the conversations people have about their personal finances so he can help them achieve financial balance. By making complex topics understandable and creating a safe, judgment-free forum for his clients to ask questions, Chet helps close the gaps in financial knowledge, serves as an informed sounding board, and uncovers any blind spots that may impact their present and future security. Chet has a “Protection First” philosophy, which means that before he looks at any risk-based investment options, protecting and securing his client’s assets and income is the highest priority. Recognizing that each client’s financial picture is different, it is his responsibility to create a broad, goals-based planning experience tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual or business.

Chet is extremely proud of the difference he has made in his clients’ lives, including business owners, Institutional Wall Street professionals, partners of law firms, and C-level executives. His special areas of expertise include estate planning for high-net-worth individuals and business continuity planning.

Working With A Financial Advisor

Working With A Financial Advisor

Navigating the twists and turns of today’s financial landscape is bound to raise a few questions.

Join Evan Wohl and Iván Watanabe as they delve into some of the most pressing financial queries and scenarios you may be facing in the current environment while highlighting the importance of having a financial advisor to help guide you. 

This conversation reflects on today’s real estate market dynamics, and the implications of interest rate changes, and expands into the broader scope of financial planning and investment strategies. 

Iván and Evan discuss:

  • The impact of the current interest rate environment on buying decisions in the real estate market
  • Strategies for navigating high mortgage rates and understanding the broader historical context of interest rates
  • The growing interest in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and how they could fit into contemporary investment portfolios
  • The importance of asset liquidity and preparedness 
  • The value of diversified banking and safeguarding assets
  • And more

Resources:

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

A Conversation Between Dads

A Conversation Between Dads

In this heartfelt conversation, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl open up about the joys and challenges of fatherhood as Iván stands on the cusp of welcoming his second child, a baby boy.

With help from his colleague and friend, Evan, a seasoned parent of three, they explore the emotions, preparations, and adjustments that come with expanding a family. Their conversation is rich with insights, laughter, and love for their children as they offer their perspectives on the transformative experience of parenting. 

Highlights from this episode include:

  • The significance of support from family/community (It takes a village!)
  • Anxieties surrounding family expansion and how to prepare for their arrival
  • Financial preparations such as estate planning and college account funding
  • The pursuit of balancing career demands with the responsibilities of parenthood
  • Challenges and triumphs of being a parent and the importance of being adaptable and intentional in their approach
  • And more

Resources:

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Revisiting Physician Contract Considerations with Stephanie Rodin, ESQ.

Revisiting Physician Contract Considerations with Stephanie Rodin, ESQ.

As a healthcare professional or proprietor of a healthcare practice, your primary focus is safe and legal patient care. Managing the intricacies of healthcare leaves minimal capacity to navigate the complexities of legal matters.

Understanding the legal side of your business is crucial for protection, which is why we invited Stephanie Rodin, Founder and Attorney at Rodin Legal P.C. back for another episode of WealthStyle. 

Join Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl as they sit down with Stephanie to dive deep into the legal aspects of healthcare practice management, covering employment agreements, patient and employee issues, buying and selling practices, and supplying advice to fellow healthcare practitioners. 

With her extensive experience and focus on ensuring contracts reflect the specialty and protect the practitioner’s rights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in the healthcare industry.

Iván, Evan, and Stephanie discuss:

  • The significance of tail coverage and how it affects your practice
  • Market dynamics for buying and selling practices including the role of private equity in healthcare
  • The current state of non-competes
  • Key considerations when purchasing equity in a surgical practice, including disaster and disability planning
  • The importance of having detailed discussions and clauses about potential partnership opportunities in employment contracts
  • And more

Resources:

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Stephanie Rodin:

About Stephanie Rodin:

Stephanie Rodin. is the founder and principal of Rodin Legal, P.C. and has been practicing law since 1998, with a majority of that time assisting healthcare professionals. 

Starting from a young age, Ms. Rodin has been exposed to the medical/dental field, as her immediate family all practice within the healthcare field. As a result, she was surrounded by various medical and legal issues that routinely arose during the practice of medicine and dentistry. This provided Ms. Rodin with the expertise that serves as the foundation of her legal practice. Rodin Legal, P.C. caters to these legal complexities and is dedicated to the growth of professional practices.

Ms. Rodin received her J.D. from the New England School of Law in Boston, Massachusetts. Before this, she received a B.S. in Accounting from New York University’s Leonard N. Stern School Of Business. She is also admitted to practice law in New York and New Jersey.

Legacy Planning and Purposeful Living

Legacy Planning and Purposeful Living

What legacy will you leave behind?

In this installment of WealthStyle, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl discuss the concept of legacy planning and note that legacy planning extends beyond financial contributions and weighs heavily on how individuals choose to have an impact on families, communities, and society through intentional actions and forward-thinking strategies.

They highlight Ruth Gossman, a professor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine who provided free tuition for future students, and how her gift will transcend through generations. Plus their conversation showcases personal stories and examples of how they are harnessing the power of legacy in their lives.

Iván and Evan touch on:

  • The concept of legacy and its impact on future generations
  • The importance of making people feel empowered and valued
  • Ways to create a lasting impact beyond financial aspects 
  • Charitable giving and trust setups
  • And more

Resources:

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Transforming Spaces with Marialisa of Cyrus Contracting

Transforming Spaces with Marialisa of Cyrus Contracting

Are you considering a home renovation but feel overwhelmed by the prospect of working with contractors? 

You’re not alone.

In this episode, Iván Watanabe, and Evan Wohl speak with the owner and operator of Cyrus Contracting, Marialisa Zywotchenko, or ML for short. During their discussion, ML unravels the often daunting task of working with contractors, provides advice on establishing a trustworthy relationship with your contractor, and why investing in quality should be a priority. Through sharing first-hand experiences, ML illustrates the dangers of falling for misleading sales pitches, underscores the critical role of experienced subcontractors, and the legal importance of permits. 

After listening to this episode you will have a clearer understanding of how to approach your next renovation with confidence.

Key topics include:

  • How to find the right contractor for your project and budget
  • The most profitable home improvement renos
  • Questions to ask a potential contractor, including license, permits, and insurance
  • Real examples of client mistakes and misfortunes
  • Trends that stand the test of time vs. fads that don’t last
  • And more

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Marialisa Zywotchenko:

About Marialisa Zywotchenko:

Marialisa is the owner and operator of Cyrus Contracting. She holds two degrees from New York University in Construction and Real Estate Management. She earned her Associate’s degree from the University of Florida. Marialisa worked for several New York City general contracting firms in numerous roles and previously owned and managed her own painting company.

Marialisa has a passion for fine art and interior design as well as building. Her attention to detail sets Cyrus apart from other contractors in the Manhattan/Westchester competitive market.

The way Marialisa approaches the construction project simplifies the process for clients. She looks at the broad scope of the project and addresses each aspect.

Strategies for Real Estate Success with Scott Shuman

Strategies for Real Estate Success with Scott Shuman

Are you looking to sell your home and need insight into the current market? 

Want to know what potential buyers are looking for and what you can do to attract them? 

If you’re ready to list your house, make listening to this episode your first to-do!

Join our host Evan Wohl and his guest Scott Shuman, COO of The Sue Adler Team as they discuss the ever-changing real estate landscape. They hone in on how the pandemic and the shift in work habits are nudging folks from the hustle and bustle of city life to the quieter suburbs, and why you might want to hang on to your property as a source of income. 

Should you stay or go? 

Find out as this episode highlights:

  • What caused the shift in the real estate market during Covid
  • How have rising interest rates affected buyer activity and seller hesitation
  • The importance of finding a trusted real estate advisor before making decisions about home improvements or selling
  • Why you should consider holding onto property for rental income
  • Tips and guidance on how to increase the value of your home
  • Insight into the permits and legal requirements for selling/buying
  • And more

Resources:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Scott Shuman:

About Our Guest:

Scott Shuman, Morristown, grew up in Chatham and has been with The Sue Adler Team since 2010. Scott spearheads all of the team’s operations, and in a nutshell, is responsible for ensuring that the Sue Adler Team runs efficiently and effectively,  with client service always at the forefront, creating the best possible experience for our clients. If you have a conversation with Scott, it will instantly become clear how passionate he is about the real estate industry – he is one of the rare people (besides Sue), who got his real estate license as soon as he turned 18!   Scott has had his hand in almost every role in the industry from working with buyers and sellers to transaction management, to lead conversion to SEO and online marketing and everything in between.

Journey to 10K Downloads: Reflecting on Our Podcast’s Growth

Journey to 10K Downloads: Reflecting on Our Podcast’s Growth

As 2023 came to a close, WealthStyle unlocked a major milestone: 10,000 downloads! 

Many thanks go to you, our listening audience for tuning in and sharing your favorite episodes with others. OPUS’ mantra is ‘always forward’ and with your loyalty, we are doing just that!

Today, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl highlight their favorite episodes from 2023, including the most-listened-to episodes from the year. They also share the most downloaded releases since WealthStyle launched in 2020.

Revisit fan favorites, or discover new topics and experts for the first time as Iván and Evan highlight WealthStyle episodes that have contributed to reaching 10,000 downloads. 

Notable Episodes:

Resources:

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Joy To The World: Gratitude & Laughter with Evan Wohl and Iván Watanabe

Joy To The World: Gratitude & Laughter with Evan Wohl and Iván Watanabe

Just days before Christmas, Evan Wohl and Iván Watanabe embraced the spirit of the holidays by reminiscing about their childhoods, traditions they’ve carried forth with their families, and the best and worst gifts they’ve either given or received.

This light-hearted and fun episode gives you an insider look at the lives and personalities of the hosts of WealthStyle. Join them as they celebrate the season, all while highlighting the significance of gratitude.

Resources:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Strategies for Managing Single Stock Positions with Andrew McCall

Strategies for Managing Single Stock Positions with Andrew McCall

Have you considered including covered calls and collars in your investment strategy? What options should you consider when looking at contracts for buying and selling investments?

Tune in as Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl speak with Andrew McCall, regional consultant at SpiderRock Advisors. Andrew walks through some savvy options strategies, like covered calls and collars, that can help balance out the risks and tax implications while you’re working on diversifying your investment portfolio. 

Andrew discusses:

  • What are the options strategies discussed for managing single stock positions
  • Where does SpiderRock’s technology and expertise focus in terms of customizable option solutions
  • Why are options considered contracts for buying or selling investments at specific prices in the future
  • What are the downsides and trade-offs of using the covered call strategy
  • And more

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Andrew McCall:

Leasing or Buying a Car with Alfonso Ruggiero

Leasing or Buying a Car with Alfonso Ruggiero

Are you looking at buying or leasing a car in the near future? Understanding the questions to consider could make the road a bit smoother for your purchase.

In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl are joined by Alfonso Ruggiero, a former Audi sales executive to delve into the intricacies of purchasing or leasing a vehicle. Listen as Alfonso offers valuable insights into the negotiation process, the significance of comprehending lease terms, and the various fees associated with such transactions.

Alfonso discusses:

  • Why is it important to negotiate the car price before discussing lease terms
  • What fees are involved in leasing a car
  • His thoughts on putting extra money down on a lease
  • The importance of considering where your car will be serviced 
  • And more

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

The Timeless Artistry and History of Watches with Rob Weintraub

The Timeless Artistry and History of Watches with Rob Weintraub

For some people, a watch is simply a functional piece of technology that tells them the time. Perhaps it informs them of the weather, their daily step count, and could also remind them to take medication. 

And then there are people like WealthStyle’s host, Iván Watanabe, who considers watches to be a work of art and a luxury piece of jewelry. 

Join Iván and his co-host Evan Wohl as they interview Robert Weintraub, Manager of Manfredi Jewels about the history and rapidly growing interest in watches, and whether it’s worth purchasing a watch as an investment.

Rob shares his expertise about:

  • The benefits of doing research on specific watch models, manufacturers, and brands
  • Why he recommends watches are purchased by personal preference rather than value
  • How the pandemic affected supply and demand for the watch industry 
  • The importance of building a relationship with your local jeweler
  • And more

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Robert Weintraub:

About Robert Weintraub:

Experienced Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the luxury goods and jewelry industry. Skilled in Trend Analysis, Luxury Goods, Customer Service, Sales, and Retail. Strong professional with an M.M. focused in Opera Performance from Arizona State University.

Current Market Dynamics with Evan Wohl and Rob Pruett

Current Market Dynamics with Evan Wohl and Rob Pruett

Predicting the future is something that many people expect investment and wealth advisors to do, especially when it comes to fluctuations within the market. 

Join Evan Wohl and Rob Pruett from OPUS Private Client, LLC, for a candid discussion surrounding the current market dynamics and how advisors can help clients create flexible plans based on timeless investment principles.

Evan and Rob discuss:

  • Current market conditions and challenges facing clients
  • The importance of sticking to a long-term investment plan 
  • Ongoing increases and changes to tax rates, interest rates, and inflation  
  • Why you should work with a professional for financial planning
  • And more

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Rob Pruett:

About Our Guest:

Robert P. Pruett has been a wealth advisor with Opus Private Client, LLC for 14 years performing planning for high-net-worth individuals, families, and business owners. Rob uses leading-edge advanced personal planning techniques to protect and maximize each client’s wealth, retirement, and estate plans. Rob also consults with 50-to-800-person firms to deliver high-value corporate benefit programs, with a special focus on delivering healthcare savings of 10-15% or more through Opus’ proprietary reimbursement program offering.

His specialties include asset management, institutional investing, tax planning, life insurance, disability, annuities, and long-term care insurance, corporate benefits programs, executive benefit programs, retirement, and estate planning, and legacy and charitable planning.

How Effective Conversations Build Great Business Leaders with Chalmers Brothers

How Effective Conversations Build Great Business Leaders with Chalmers Brothers

Conversations are at the heart of effective leadership.

In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl speak with Chalmers Brothers, best-selling author, and certified personal/executive coach, on the role of conversation within business and leadership development. Chalmers shares his experience helping business owners take their everyday tasks to the next level through effective communication and tips to look at their own leadership in a new light.

Chalmers discusses:

  • How do leaders use language to build effective communication
  • The importance of building communication relationships when working remotely
  • Why authenticity is essential to creating effective communication
  • How personal emotions impact the energy of a conversation
  • And more

Resources:

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Chalmers Brothers:

About Our Guest:

Chalmers Brothers is a best-selling author, certified personal/executive coach, consultant, seminar leader, and speaker. He has a 36-year career focused on leadership development, workplace culture, productivity and accountability, teamwork and clarity in communication, emotional intelligence, trust- and relationship-building.

How to Make Tomorrow Better Today with Hal Hershfield

How to Make Tomorrow Better Today with Hal Hershfield

Do you recognize yourself when you imagine who you’ll be in the future?

Or does it feel like you’re looking at a stranger?

In this episode of WealthStyle, Evan Wohl speaks with Hal Hershfield, professor of psychology, marketing, and behavioral decision-making at UCLA’s Anderson School of Management on why it is so hard for most people to envision their future selves.

Listen in as Hal reveals the psychology behind this common mindset and what we can do to alter how we perceive ourselves presently and in the future.

Engage in a few “ah-ha” moments as Hal explains:

  • Why it’s a struggle to achieve goals, even if they are well planned
  • How envisioning and connecting with your future self can increase asset accumulation
  • The power of auto-enrollment for 401k contributions
  • Why we tend to live in a state of “status quo” versus looking ahead to the future
  • And more

Resources: 

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Hal Hershfield:

About Our Guest:

Hal Hershfield is a Marketing, Behavioral Decision Making, and Psychology Professor at UCLA’s Anderson School of Management and holds the UCLA Anderson Board of Advisors Term Chair in Management. His research, which sits at the intersection of psychology and economics, examines how we can improve our long-term decisions. He earned his Ph.D. in psychology from Stanford University.

Tax Strategies for Financial and Retirement Planning

Tax Strategies for Financial and Retirement Planning

When building a retirement plan, you need to look beyond your individual accounts. How will each type of account save you money? How will they protect your retirement income from high tax rates?

In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl focus on asset allocation and what needs to be considered when creating retirement income assets. They discuss the impact of taxes on retirement planning and how different accounts provide opportunities to save and withdraw retirement funds while avoiding high tax rates.

Iván and Evan explore:

  • The importance of considering the taxation of different asset vehicles
  • When to withdraw from different types of accounts
  • What to consider when making an investment decision
  • How different investment buckets provide options when withdrawing retirement income
  • And more

Resource:

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

An Eye on Investments with Russ Carpentieri

An Eye on Investments with Russ Carpentieri

What goes into a successful investment deal? Money? Time? Information?

Find out how you can invest with confidence in this episode of WealthStyle where Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl sit down with Russ Carpentieri, Managing Director at OPUS Private Client, LLC to explore their personal insights, practical tips and real-life examples of how you can make profitable investment decisions.

Listen in as Iván, Evan, and Russ discuss:

  • How their relationship with money impacts their investment decisions
  • What questions to consider when assessing several deals
  • How a loss in investments isn’t a loss in the portfolio
  • Why you should spend time getting familiar with your investments
  • And more

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Russ Carpentieri:

Guaranteed Income for a Happy Retirement with Tom Hegna

Guaranteed Income for a Happy Retirement with Tom Hegna

What’s the secret to a happy retirement?

If you want to enjoy your retirement to the fullest, you must have a sense of purpose and guaranteed income for the rest of your life. That way, you have something to look forward to every day, without the fear of running out of money!

In this episode of WealthStyle, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl sit down with Tom Hegna, a retirement expert, best-selling author, public TV host, and international speaker! 

Together, they explore:

  • Seven simple steps for a financially secure retirement
  • What drives happiness and longevity in retirement (based on research)
  • How you can achieve guaranteed lifetime income and a blissful retirement
  • Benefits of annuities and the different types available in the market
  • How to make your life purposeful and socially engaging during retirement
  • And more

Resources:


Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Tom Hegna:

About Tom Hegna:

Tom Hegna is an economist, author, and retirement expert. As a former First Vice President at New York Life, retired Lieutenant Colonel, and economist, Tom has delivered over 5,000 seminars on his signature “Paychecks and Playchecks” retirement approach, helping baby boomers and seniors retire the “optimal” way.

Tom specializes in creating simple and powerful retirement solutions. He has the unique ability to pump up a crowd, make people laugh, and solve complex financial problems using easy-to-understand words, ideas, and stories. He’s been featured in Business, Forbes, Money Rates, and many other leading publications. He is available to speak with businesses, government organizations, professional associations, financial professionals, and their clients across the globe.

Teaching Gratitude and Generosity in an Affluent Home

Teaching Gratitude and Generosity in an Affluent Home

How can you help your child(ren) be responsible, humble, and respectful?

What are the necessary skills required to teach life-long behaviors?

In today’s episode of WealthStyle, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl learn a few parenting tactics that helped their fellow colleague Russ Carpentieri raise well-rounded, independent children.

Listen in as Russ shares his experience as a father and highlights the following:

  • The influence that your circle of friends can have on your level of parenting
  • How to teach gratitude and empathy through daily reminders and acts of kindness
  • The importance of instilling accountability and consequences
  • Useful takeaways to help reduce entitlement when raising affluent children 
  • And more

Resources:

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Russ Carpentieri:

 

When Is the Right Time to Buy a House?

When Is the Right Time to Buy a House?

Buying a home may seem like the right thing to do, but is it?

There are many factors to consider before you purchase a home, and the most obvious is, can you afford the mortgage payments? Then on top of that, there are annual property taxes and monthly utilities like gas and electricity. And don’t forget about the less obvious expenses like furniture and decor, and unexpected repairs or upgrades.

The reality is, it requires a lot of financial planning before you put an offer on a house.

In this episode of WealthStyle, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl explore the different reasons why their clients want to buy houses, how the costs associated with owning a home factor into financial and retirement planning, and how much the housing market has changed post-pandemic.

Iván and Evan discuss:

  • The financial costs of owning a house after the initial purchase
  • How your financial plans will shift when planning to buy a house
  • The role of mortgage and interest rates and how they are constantly changing
  • The emotional effects of buying a home 
  • And more

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

What to Consider When Planning Your International Flight with Rob Karp and Henry Kamp

What to Consider When Planning Your International Flight with Rob Karp and Henry Kamp

How can you maximize your vacation and travel experience before you even leave the country?

In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl are joined by Rob Karp, founder and CEO, and Henry Kamp, head of Air Sales and Operations at MilesAhead, in sharing their knowledge of the travel industry and how to gain the most from your flight experience.

Rob and Henry discuss:

  • How the pandemic increased the cost of travel while negatively impacting the experience
  • Why travel so important to people
  • How to ease your flight with a baby
  • Tips to getting through customs and onto the plane faster and easier
  • And more

Resource:

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Rob Karp:

Connect with Henry Kamp:

About Our Guests:

Rob Karp is the Founder and CEO of MilesAhead. A graduate of Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration (‘19), Rob was named one of Travel + Leisure’s International Rising Stars in 2017 and a finalist for Virtuoso’s Rising Star award in 2019. Rob first founded MilesAhead as a sophomore in high school, initially helping family and friends efficiently use their frequent flyer miles for plane tickets. Over time, MilesAhead has evolved into a full-scale luxury hospitality company that works with a discerning group of clients.

As the Head of Air Sales and Operations, Henry Kamp ensures that all of our clients’ journeys are as pleasant as the destination. Although Henry focuses primarily on air travel, he plays a pivotal role in all travel bookings, handling everything from finding last-minute rental cars to identifying the perfect hotel.

Exploring Equity Grants and Their Taxation with Alejandro Azuaje

Exploring Equity Grants and Their Taxation with Alejandro Azuaje

Company equity grants are a tried and true way for businesses to provide investment opportunities to their employees, and as a way to incentivize and reward their loyalty. Plus, equity grants can be a cost-effective way for companies to compensate employees, and provide a sense of ownership by giving them a stake in the company’s success. 

In this episode of WealthStyle, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl talk with Alejandro Azuaje, an investment specialist with OPUS Private Client, LLC about three main types of equity grants and how they are taxed from an employee perspective.

Listen in and learn as Alex discusses:

  • Why equity grants are used as employee benefits
  • The main types of equity grants
  • Examples of how employees can benefit from each type of equity
  • How taxes impact the income received from equity grants
  • And more

Resources:

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Alejandro Azuaje:

About Our Guest:

Alejandro Azuaje is an associate and investment specialist at Opus Private Client, LLC. After graduating from college, Alejandro entered the financial planning industry. He joined Opus in 2017 and is elated to be working for a team that believes in holistic planning and executes its recommendations with efficiency and ease. Alejandro’s specialties are in financial planning analysis, financial modeling, and equity investments. He is a Westchester native from Purchase, NY, and an Alumnus of New York University with a bachelor’s degree in computer science.

How the Secure Act Has Changed Retirement Planning with Joshua Caron

How the Secure Act Has Changed Retirement Planning with Joshua Caron

The Secure Act was one of the most significant systemic rewrites of retirement planning in recent history. These changes created opportunities for all ages, from young adults just out of college to individuals just starting retirement.

In this episode, Evan Wohl speaks with Joshua Caron, Vice President of Federal Affairs at Finseca, on the Secure Act, how it changed retirement planning, and the individual aspects of the Secure Act 1.0 and 2.0.

Josh discusses:

  • Why the shift away from pensions was so important in retirement planning 
  • How student debt conflicted with retirement planning for those fresh out of college 
  • The change to overfunding 529 accounts and how Secure Act 2.0 changed the tax penalties for the account
  • Why 401(k)s are no longer enough for retirement income and the impact of longevity on retirement planning
  • And more

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Josh Caron:

About Josh Caron:

Joshua Caron is the Vice President of Federal Affairs for Finseca. Originally from Massachusetts, he attended Arizona State University for both his undergraduate and graduate degrees. His primary role is to advocate for policies that allow for more Americans to live financially secure lives with a focus on the advanced markets. 

 Prior to joining Finseca, he worked for several political campaigns, including those former President Barack Obama and former Congressman Harry Mitchell (D-AZ). He lives with his wife, daughter, and chocolate lab in St. Anthony Park, St. Paul MN.

About Evan Wohl:

Evan’s clients trust him with the responsibility to guide them through the complexities of personal finance. He provides clarity and insight on how to measure and improve your cash flow as well as whether or not you are on track to accomplish your various financial goals. The firm takes a macroeconomic approach to planning and coordinates all of your financial decisions through the use of a comprehensive economic model.

Evan’s wife, Laurie, and he have three children, Quinn, Parker and Bodie. He currently sits on the board of The Hope Gala. The Hope Gala was created to support fundraising efforts on behalf of The Four Diamonds Fund and The Penn State Dance Marathon (THON™). The Hope Gala contributes to the mission of conquering childhood cancer. All proceeds benefit pediatric cancer patients at the Penn State Children’s Hospital and their families in need of financial aid, medical assistance, and emotional support.

 

Building Real Estate Investments in a Rising Interest Rate Environment with Jon Minkoff

Building Real Estate Investments in a Rising Interest Rate Environment with Jon Minkoff

Real estate investment is a balance between finding the right financial opportunity, and a unique, desirable location. How can you build real estate investments in a rising interest rate environment?

 

In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl speak with Jon Minkoff, co-founder, CFO, COO, CIO of ASH NYC, on real estate investment for individual investors, what to consider when entering the current economic market, and how investors view property from a buyer, seller or investment perspective.

Jon discusses:

  • What makes a good real estate investment
  • How banks manage lending risk in a rising interest rate environment
  • How he manages business through different economic climates
  • And more

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Jon Minkoff:

About Jon Minkoff:

Real estate professional with experience working with start-up real estate development private equity funds. Jon has experience in all aspects of real estate including finance, development, financial forecasting, construction, estimating, property management, as well as commercial leasing. He has also spent time working with high-net-worth individuals to analyze and manage different real estate acquisition opportunities.

Compound Interest is a Snowball with Evan Wohl

Compound Interest is a Snowball with Evan Wohl

Remember being a kid and the joy you felt making the biggest snowman from just three small snowballs? Watching those little snowballs getting bigger and bigger with each roll… 

As an adult, the experience changes from creating snowmen to generating compound interest.

In this episode, Iván Watanabe welcomes colleague Evan Wohl to dive deeper into compound interest, and how you can get it working for you. 

Iván and Evan discuss:

  • Why Warren Buffett claims compound interest to be the eighth wonder of the world
  • How compound interest works
  • The ripple effect one change can have on an entire balance sheet
  • Why you should see your finances as an ecosystem, not just as single silos
  • And more

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

About Evan Wohl:

Evan’s clients trust him with the responsibility to guide them through the complexities of personal finance. He provides clarity and insight on how to measure and improve your cash flow as well as whether or not you are on track to accomplish your various financial goals. The firm takes a macroeconomic approach to planning and coordinates all of your financial decisions through the use of a comprehensive economic model.

Evan’s wife, Laurie, and he have three children, Quinn, Parker and Bodie. He currently sits on the board of The Hope Gala. The Hope Gala was created to support fundraising efforts on behalf of The Four Diamonds Fund and The Penn State Dance Marathon (THON™). The Hope Gala contributes to the mission of conquering childhood cancer. All proceeds benefit pediatric cancer patients at the Penn State Children’s Hospital and their families in need of financial aid, medical assistance, and emotional support.

About Iván Watanabe:

Iván Watanabe is a Managing Partner of Opus Private Client, LLC in the New York office. He joined Opus in 2013, after working in Boston for five years as a financial associate. During his time at Opus, Iván quickly established himself as a leader and an asset to the team, and he became a managing partner in 2018.

Iván is a graduate of the College of the Holy Cross with a bachelor’s degree in political science and Spanish literature and brings a unique blend of analytical and holistic thinking to each of his clients. Iván’s expertise is in asset protection, wealth accumulation, and wealth distribution strategies. His vast knowledge and rich experience in the finance industry earned him one of the most prestigious industry awards, the President’s Council Award in 2018.

 

Building Real Estate Investments in a Rising Interest Rate Environment with Jon Minkoff

Building Real Estate Investments in a Rising Interest Rate Environment with Jon Minkoff

Real estate investment is a balance between finding the right financial opportunity, and a unique, desirable location. How can you build real estate investments in a rising interest rate environment? 

In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl speak with Jon Minkoff, co-founder, CFO, COO, CIO of ASH NYC, on real estate investment for individual investors, what to consider when entering the current economic market, and how investors view property from a buyer, seller or investment perspective.

Jon discusses:

  • What makes a good real estate investment
  • How banks manage lending risk in a rising interest rate environment
  • How he manages business through different economic climates
  • And more

Connect with Iván Watanabe:

Connect with Evan Wohl:

Connect with Jon Minkoff:

About Jon Minkoff:

Real estate professional with experience working with start up real estate development private equity funds. Jon has experience in all aspects of real estate including finance, development, financial forecasting, construction, estimating, property management, as well as commercial leasing. He has also spent time working with high net worth individuals to analyze and manage different real estate acquisition opportunities.