In this episode of the Ideas by Mike Podcast, we explore retirement without fear through a powerful real-life transformation. From losing 80 pounds to redefining freedom, purpose, and identity after work, this conversation challenges everything most people believe about retirement.
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In this 40th Episode of Ideas by Mike Podcast, Mike Milligan, CFP, sits down with financial experts Coach Pete D’Arruda & Gary Nolan to discuss the history of the US economy, the stock market, and personal finance strategies. Whether you are looking for retirement planning advice, trying to understand inflation, or just want a nostalgic look back at the “good old days,” this episode is packed with value.
Coach Pete D’Arruda – Known nationally as “Coach Pete,” Peter J. D’Arruda is the President of the Capital Financial Advisory Group and a fiduciary dedicated to helping clients navigate retirement with confidence.
With over 30 years in the financial arena, he is the host of the nationally syndicated radio show The Financial Safari, which airs weekly on over 50 stations across the country.
**We’d love to hear your thoughts! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a comment below!**
From former college hockey player to a leading retirement specialist. Join host Mike Milligan as he sits down with team member Josef Mehall, a talented entrepreneurial spirit that is passionate about leaving things better than he found them.
With his engaging story of growth to becoming a financial expert, Josef shares how he helps clients shape their retirement dreams with personalized financial plans that reflect their unique values and aspirations.
Other key discussion points include:
The transition from entrepreneurial ventures to financial planning (04:00)
Differences between Roth IRAs and traditional investments (12:00)
The impact of early retirement planning for young adults (11:00)
Unique insights on ‘Assets under Influence’ vs. ‘Assets under Management’ (17:00)
Personal strategies for tackling student loans and retirement savings (20:54)
Josef Mehall is a dedicated financial professional with a unique background that combines the discipline of a former collegiate hockey player with the strategic mindset developed through years of entrepreneurship and experience in the insurance industry.
Originally from Berkley, Michigan, just outside of Detroit, Mehall attended Iowa State University, where he refined his skills on the ice as a collegiate hockey player while cultivating a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for teamwork.
His professional journey has been diverse, spanning from a real estate apprenticeship to a career in financial services. He spent a decade as an entrepreneur, owning and operating his own car detailing business, where he developed a keen attention to detail, built strong customer relationships, and experienced the rewards of growing a business from the ground up. Following this entrepreneurial endeavor, he transitioned into the insurance industry, spending the past year and a half as an independent insurance professional, gaining valuable insights into risk management and financial planning.
Your financial journey is as unique as you are. So, in order to plan for a bright future you first need to ask yourself one simple question:
Why is money important to you?
This week on Ideas by Mike™, Mike Milligan, CFP® brings on a few members of his dynamic team, including Kaitlan Costner, Marcus Washington, Nicole Stam, and Liz Mundey, to dive into this fundamental question they ask all their clients.
Tune in and explore the team’s unique roles and hear different perspectives on financial priorities, the role of money in achieving life goals, and how understanding client relationships can lead to impactful, one-of-a-kind financial plans.
Episode highlights include:
An introduction to the team and their unique roles at Ideas by Mike™
Marcus discusses varying client responses and the universal fear of running out of money
Nicole shares her journey to financial literacy and the importance of budgeting and autonomy
Liz highlights the need for security, legacy, and the personal touch in financial planning
Kaitlan emphasizes the value of transparency and expectations in managing client trust and money
Kaitlan Costner is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Ideas by Mike™. She oversees and manages the day-to-day operations of the company, ensuring they align with its strategic goals. She is responsible for handling all business submissions and processing, nurturing relationships with partners, and closely monitoring the company’s financial performance.
Marcus Washingtonis a Retirement Specialist at Ideas By Mike™. He graduated from Abilene Christian University in 2011 with a Bachelor of Science. With extensive experience in the Financial Service Industry, Marcus has specialized in assisting Federal Employees in navigating their retirement plans, particularly focusing on the complexities of FERS and CSRS retirement plans.
Nicole Stam serves as the Marketing & Lead Generation Strategist for Ideas By Mike™. With a background in digital marketing and cybersecurity, she has cultivated a keen interest in staying abreast of technological trends. Nicole leverages this expertise to transform innovative methodologies into successful marketing and lead-generation strategies. With a proven track record of success, she remains committed to making significant strides in the marketing industry through pioneering campaigns.
Liz Mundey is the Senior Relationship Manager at Ideas by Mike™ tasked with providing enhanced client support. Her responsibilities include maintaining up-to-date accounts, ensuring accessible and comprehensible information, and maintaining close communication with clients to ensure their financial plans evolve in alignment with their lives.
