Don't Retire...Graduate!

Join Tara Donohue Rudo, founder of No More Piles, as she shares her 23 years of expertise in downsizing and decluttering. Tara tackles the emotional hurdles families face when letting go of decades of belongings, including inherited items. She offers practical tips for making family conversations easier and encourages early action on downsizing to alleviate stress. Listen in for surprising discoveries her team has unearthed and methods for organizing documents and treasured memories. It's all about managing life's transitions with grace!

A fresh perspective on retirement unveils it as a lifelong journey of growth and purpose. The importance of legacy and mentorship takes center stage, with a focus on an innovative, collaborative approach in financial services. The conversation stresses the vital role of financial literacy for all ages, promoting tools and resources to enhance understanding. Key tips on choosing a trustworthy financial advisor highlight transparency and authenticity, shaping a more informed client-advisor relationship. Exciting possibilities for future endeavors hint at continued evolution.

Chelsea Williams, known as the Money Whisperer and host of Always and Never About the Money, empowers individuals, especially women, to navigate financial challenges. She discusses how money is often intertwined with emotional and psychological aspects, urging a shift towards viewing it as a tool for empowerment. Chelsea shares her personal journey from a young single mom to a financial educator, emphasizing the importance of strong financial literacy. The conversation also covers practical strategies like the 'Profit First' method and the significance of setting clear financial goals.

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to welcome someone I know not only as a colleague but as a friend and business partner—Yanni Niebuhr. As part of our Diary of a Financial Advisor series, I got to sit down with Yanni, who’s celebrating an incredible 14 years at BFG. From unpaid intern to Chief Investment Officer and soon-to-be CFO, Yanni’s path is a testament to growth, leadership, and staying passionate in a constantly evolving profession. In this candid conversation, Yanni shared his unique journey from his college days at Towson University all the way to serving on our executive team. We discussed what has kept his professional “fuse lit” over the years, and Yanni gave us an inside look into the complex world of business and succession planning for entrepreneurs—an area where he thrives thanks to his love of tackling intricate challenges. Yanni also opened up about spearheading initiatives like our Financial Planning for All program and driving BFG’s corporate financial wellness offerings for companies across the country. But it’s not all numbers and balance sheets—Yanni revealed some of the lighter (and more embarrassing!) moments from inside our office. From friendly wagers that led to crop tops on the boardwalk to interpretive dances after soccer bets gone wrong, you’ll get a real sense of our team’s camaraderie and culture. We also explored the transition of leadership roles within BFG—Yanni spoke about passing the Chief Investment Officer baton and his excitement about shaping our firm’s future as CFO. Our conversation wrapped up with Yanni’s advice for young advisors eager to make their mark in financial services, underscoring the importance of patience, continued learning, and never losing the human touch that defines our firm. 5 Key Takeaways: Growth through Every Role: Yanni’s journey from unpaid intern to executive team member highlights the power of curiosity, adaptability, and patience in career progression—valuable lessons for any professional aiming for leadership. Embracing Complexity: His passion for complex financial and business planning, especially for entrepreneurs and family businesses, shows how diving into challenging territory can fuel a rewarding and meaningful career. Culture Matters: Office culture and shared laughter—like wagers, crop tops, and interpretive dances—create lasting bonds that make hard work and long hours enjoyable and sustainable. Succession & Transition: Yanni’s move from CIO to CFO is a model for “graduating” from one role to another within a growing firm, and demonstrates the importance of recognizing team strengths and supporting new leaders. Advice for the Next Generation: Yanni’s top guidance? Don’t rush. Take time to learn and develop before seeking instant advancement, and embrace the opportunities to grow in both skill and confidence at every stage. Join us for an episode full of lessons in professional development, authentic office stories, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really means to build a career—and a firm—with purpose. As always, I encourage you to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast with anyone looking to navigate their own journey toward financial independence and fulfillment! [embed]https://youtu.be/vR7e0id0Fx0[/embed]

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re diving into a critical and sometimes overlooked topic: divorce and its profound impact on your financial and personal future. I’m joined in the studio by Leon W. Berg, a highly awarded divorce attorney with 50 years of experience practicing law, primarily in Baltimore County. Leon is known for his thoughtful approach to family law, his ability to mediate highly emotional situations, and his unwavering dedication to setting realistic expectations for his clients. With countless accolades, including the Martindale Hubbell AV Preeminent rating and the Baltimore County Bar Association’s prestigious J. Earl Plumhoff Professional Lawyer of the Year award, Leon brought unparalleled experience and wisdom to our conversation.Together, Leon and I explored why family law—while often associated with conflict—is fundamentally about problem-solving, listening, and helping clients navigate some of the most stressful moments of their lives. We discussed the financial disruption that divorce can cause, including the challenges of dividing assets, uncovering hidden finances, and ensuring that both spouses exit settlements as fairly as possible. Leon shared fascinating insights on the negotiation process, the role of attorneys and judges, and the necessity of transparency and discovery. We also took a close look at prenuptial agreements—their original intent, when they’re truly needed, and why people often misunderstand or misuse them. Leon even shared a memorable anecdote about counseling a client on the dangers of a poorly crafted prenup, highlighting the ethical and emotional complexities involved.Throughout our conversation, we emphasized the need for collaboration among attorneys, financial advisors, and tax professionals when divorce or remarriage is on the table. Finally, Leon discussed how he transitioned his own practice into mediation and best-interest advocacy for children, demonstrating how one can “graduate” into a new, purpose-driven phase of retirement.5 Key Takeaways:Divorce Is a Major Financial Iceberg: Divorce can upend your financial life more suddenly and drastically than almost any other event. It’s critical to approach it with both emotional and financial preparedness—and with strong professional guidance.Transparency Is Essential in Negotiations: Successful outcomes in divorce require both parties to be forthcoming about assets and income. Leon stressed the importance of discovery, due diligence, and recognizing warning signs (like lifestyle-to-income mismatches) that signal hidden finances.Prenups: Prevention and Pitfalls: Prenuptial (or ante-nuptial) agreements have a place, especially in cases involving family businesses or significant pre-marital assets. However, Leon warned that many people misunderstand their necessity and their limits, and that creating unrealistic or overly punitive agreements can backfire emotionally and legally.Division of Assets Is More Nuanced Than It Seems: Not all dollars are created equal—retirement accounts, brokerage accounts, and home equity each come with their own tax implications and liquidity considerations. Splitting assets requires careful planning to ensure fairness and minimize tax pitfalls.Graduating Into Retirement Can Mean Redefining Your Role: Leon’s story of shifting from traditional litigation to mediation and best-interest advocacy beautifully illustrates how professionals can—and should—find new purpose as they “graduate” from full-time careers into retirement.Join us as we unpack these complexities with the help of an expert who’s seen it all. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a rating, and share Don’t Retire… Graduate! with friends and family—because navigating life’s biggest transitions truly requires the best possible partners on your journey to financial freedom and a meaningful future.

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! I’m your host, Eric Brotman, and today’s episode features a unique perspective in our “Diary of a Financial Advisor” series. While we typically interview seasoned professionals in the financial planning space, this episode spotlights someone who is building a career in the world of finance from a different angle: Hannah Dennis. Hannah isn’t a financial advisor herself, but as someone who supports advisors and our clients at BFG, she’s become a linchpin of our team, helping bridge the worlds of client care and marketing. Hannah joined BFG in June of 2023 as a client relations associate and quickly became indispensable, stepping into a leadership role in our marketing efforts and even helping our podcast shine. With a background as an elementary school teacher, Hannah brings exceptional interpersonal skills and a fresh educational approach to our industry, proving you don’t have to start as an advisor to play a crucial role in the financial planning process. In this episode, Hannah and I dive into her transition from the classroom to a dynamic environment serving both clients and financial professionals. She shares how her teaching background enhances her ability to communicate, organize, and connect with people of all ages—including the “big kids” she now supports at BFG. We explore her journey learning personal finance “from the ground up,” the empowering experience of attending client events, and her behind-the-scenes work building strong relationships and a thriving podcast presence. As a newlywed and self-described “accidental” financial client, Hannah also opens up about how her growing financial literacy—and early access to financial planning—has shaped her family’s approach to combining finances and setting shared goals. Whether you’re a young professional or a seasoned advisor, Hannah’s story offers a relatable, real-world testament to the impact of financial education, mentorship, and a willingness to try something new. 5 Key Takeaways: Transferable Skills Matter: Hannah’s background as a teacher gave her a strong foundation in communication, organization, and relationship-building—skills that translated seamlessly to her success in client relations and marketing within financial services. You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know: Hannah’s journey into financial literacy underscores the importance of seeking education and expertise, especially early in adult life. Working with a financial advisor opened her eyes to strategies and opportunities she didn’t know existed. Financial Advice Is for Everyone: One of Hannah’s biggest realizations was that financial planning isn’t only for the wealthy or the older generation. She became a financial planning client herself as a young professional and newlywed, and encourages others to start early. Building Confidence Through New Experiences: Immersing herself in new roles—from running marketing meetings to mastering client events—helped Hannah build confidence, deepen relationships, and discover her own path to making an impact in our industry. The Human Side of Finance: By working closely with clients and advisors, Hannah experiences firsthand the personal and emotional impact financial planning can have on families, reminding us that this field is as much about relationships and trust as it is about numbers. Join us as we continue to inspire and educate on your journey toward financial freedom and purpose. Today’s episode is a reminder that you don’t need to be a financial advisor to make a meaningful difference. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode—so we can be a part of your journey to financial independence! [embed]https://youtu.be/xOGn3lKUOv4[/embed]

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! Today’s episode is one that speaks directly to the heart of reinvention and the pursuit of passion long after the first chapter of your career has closed. I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Vasu Tolia as my guest—a remarkable individual whose journey from a tenured professor of pediatrics at Wayne State University to a celebrated visual artist in Michigan encapsulates the very essence of what it means to “graduate” into your next act with purpose and joy. Vasu’s story is extraordinary. After reaching the apex of her medical career as a physician, educator, and researcher, she faced pivotal crossroads that led her to reevaluate what truly brought fulfillment and happiness into her life. Rather than simply settling or succumbing to burnout, she took the courageous step of exploring entirely new creative avenues. From private practice to art lessons at a local center, what began as tentative experimentation evolved into a full-fledged artistic pursuit that now includes exhibitions, national accolades, and a focus on art’s potential to heal—both herself and others. In this episode, Vasu and I discuss what it really takes to make a major life and career pivot—especially after achieving success in a field that most would find hard to walk away from. We delve into the role of family support, rediscovering latent passions, and how her medical background continues to inform and inspire her works of art. Vasu shares how art became a therapeutic outlet during trying times, including the onset of the COVID pandemic, and how her pieces have even been recognized by national publications and the CDC. We touch upon the evolving fields of art therapy and neuroarts, and how creativity—in all its forms—can serve as an indispensable tool for emotional well-being and personal reinvention at any stage of life. 5 Key Takeaways: Reinvention is Possible at Any Age or Career Stage: Vasu’s journey from medicine to art illustrates that it is never too late to follow your creative instincts, pursue new passions, or find fulfillment in unexpected places. The Importance of Family and Community Support: Family played a crucial role in supporting Vasu’s pivot, reminding her that success is not always measured financially but through personal fulfillment and impact. Art as Therapy and Healing: Creating and viewing art can serve as powerful emotional outlets—helping to process change, relieve stress, and provide solace during challenging times, as evidenced by Vasu’s work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Your Identity is More Than a Job Title: We discussed the tendency to conflate who we are with what we do, and how embracing all facets of ourselves—including new talents and interests—can lead to a more authentic and rewarding sense of self. Bringing Purpose to the Next Chapter: Rather than simply retiring, Vasu is committed to spreading a message of healing and empowering others through art and creativity, seeing this as her next legacy. Join us as we explore how embracing change, creativity, and self-discovery can lead to a vibrant, impactful life—no matter when you start. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with anyone who might need a little encouragement to chase a new dream or reinvent themselves with purpose and passion! [embed]https://youtu.be/SJ-F2he3Ve0[/embed] About Dr. Vasu Tolia Vasundhara (Vasu) Tolia exemplifies the art of thriving through reinvention. A former tenured Professor of Pediatrics at Wayne State University, Vasu successfully transitioned to a full-time artistic career, becoming a celebrated Michigan-based visual artist known for her vibrant acrylic and mixed media works. Embracing a significant mid-life career change, Vasu channeled her scientific background into a new passion, creating art that bridges emotion and intellect. Her journey from medicine to art demonstrates the power of following one's creative instincts and the potential for success in new endeavors at any stage of life. Since her career transition, Vasu has: Participated in over 100 juried group shows from 2015-2024 Held multiple solo exhibitions, including at the prestigious Scarab Club in Detroit Won numerous awards, including the Future of Art Global Masterpiece Award (2024) and Silver and Bronze recognitions from Art Ascent Magazine Had her work featured in public collections and on the cover of scientific journals Vasu's unique background allows her to create art that promotes healing and supports charitable causes. Through her website, www.vasutolia.art, she connects with various charities, using her art as a medium to raise awareness and funds for important social issues.

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on what it means to grow—personally and professionally—within the world of financial advising. I’m joined by Cody Niedermeier, who returns for his second visit to our “Diary of a Financial Advisor” segment. Cody’s journey is one for the books: he began his career at BFG Financial Advisors in investment operations back in 2019, transitioned to the advisory team by 2020, became an advisor in 2023, and recently took the bold step of becoming a shareholder in 2025. Cody’s passion for guiding individuals and families through all stages of life shines through, both in his commitment to financial planning and his role as a leader. A proud graduate of the University of Maryland and former captain of the soccer team, Cody brings both team spirit and perseverance to his professional journey. In our discussion, we explore what it takes to go from an entry-level role to company ownership—and the crucial decisions, sacrifices, and mindset shifts required along the way. In our conversation, Cody shares the reality of apprenticeship and gradual career growth, contrasting it with the allure of instant gratification so common in today’s workforce. We talk candidly about the financial and emotional considerations of becoming a company shareholder—“it's a mortgage,” as Cody puts it—and the support and tough love provided by those closest to us during major decisions. Cody opens up about the added responsibilities and pressures that come with being a leader and owner, the importance of mentoring others, and the privilege of helping both colleagues and clients achieve their goals. We also touch on industry trends—such as the push for rapid growth and private equity buyouts—and why we believe in cultivating a firm with a close-knit culture and opportunities for meaningful, long-term advancement. Finally, Cody offers advice for recent grads and young professionals navigating their first job offers, including the importance of culture fit, patience, and seeking guidance from trusted friends and family. 5 Key Takeaways: Apprenticeship Matters: Cody’s journey from investment operations to advisor and eventually shareholder underscores the value of learning the business from the ground up, even when it means being patient and resisting the urge for immediate advancement. Ownership Is a Big Commitment: Becoming a shareholder in a financial advisory firm is a major undertaking—financially and personally. It requires careful deliberation, family discussions, and a firm belief in the firm’s mission. Leadership Beyond Management: Moving into ownership is not just about management; it’s about genuine leadership—inspiring others, setting an example, and mentoring the next generation of advisors. The “Tortoise and the Hare” Career Path: Choosing the slower, steadier growth path—one that offers room for advancement and aligns with personal values—can yield far greater long-term rewards than chasing the quick buck. Find Your Fit & Use Your Network: Cody emphasizes the importance of finding the right cultural fit in a workplace, using your network, and seeking advice from loved ones, rather than accepting the first appealing offer that comes along. Join us as we dive into the real-life experiences and lessons learned on the path from entry-level to ownership, and the importance of pursuing a career—and a workplace—that supports your growth, your values, and your financial dreams. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with others who are ready to graduate into their next chapter—one step, and one decision, at a time! [embed]https://youtu.be/PAq4Uyu19UU[/embed] Learn more about Cody here!

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In this episode, we’re diving deep into the intersection of money, mindset, and healing from financial trauma. I’m thrilled to be joined by Alejandra Rojas, an entrepreneur, writer, and founder of the Brown Way to Money platform. As a financial mentor and the host of the Brown Way to Money podcast, Alejandra specializes in helping women—especially women of color—overcome the emotional and psychological barriers that can hold them back from true financial abundance. Alejandra draws from her own story: coming from a finance background with accountant parents, she achieved professional success and a high paycheck but still found herself burned out and battling escalating debt. Her journey led her to uncover the “invisible” forces at play—internalized beliefs, generational experiences, and unhealed trauma around money. She transformed her approach by setting financial boundaries, understanding her triggers, and using practical tools like the snowball method for debt repayment—all while creating a new, more fulfilling lifestyle for herself. Through the Brown Way to Money, she now supports other women of color in not only learning the mechanics of financial health, but also in unraveling the deeper, often overlooked roots of financial anxiety and limitation. In our conversation, Alejandra shares how financial trauma is more than a personal failing—it’s often a legacy, shaped by cultural, gender, and generational barriers. We talk about the pressure to hold on to “good” jobs despite the personal cost, the difficulty of speaking up for what you need, and the unique financial narratives that shape women of color's relationships with money. Alejandra provides insight into actionable steps for healing, crafting out-of-debt plans, and establishing financial independence—not just as a number, but as a state of emotional and mental freedom. She also discusses why traditional financial advice sometimes falls short, and why context matters when creating new paths to wealth and purpose. Here are 5 key takeaways from my conversation with Alejandra Rojas: Financial Trauma Goes Beyond Numbers: Financial struggles often stem from deep-seated emotional and generational wounds—not just poor habits or lack of information. Understanding your relationship with money is key to breaking free. Boundaries and Lifestyle Design Are Transformational: You don’t have to quit everything to make substantial change. Small but decisive shifts—like setting boundaries or redefining your social environment—can drastically improve financial and personal health. The Snowball Method is Not Just Math—It’s Motivation: Alejandra used the snowball method (paying off smallest debts first) as a way to stay motivated and hack her emotional triggers, showing that psychology is as important as strategy in financial recovery. Financial Independence is More Than a Dollar Figure: True financial independence involves breaking generational patterns, healing inherited beliefs, and gaining mental freedom—not just reaching a certain net worth. Context and Culture Matter: Alejandra underscores that standard financial advice isn’t one-size-fits-all. Addressing systemic issues, generational trauma, and cultural context is essential for serving women of color and building sustainable financial confidence. Join us as we uncover what it really takes to build lasting financial wellbeing—and empower a new generation to graduate into retirement with passion, purpose, and possibility. If Alejandra’s story resonates with you or someone you know, be sure to check out her podcast, Brown Way to Money, and share this episode to inspire others on their journey. Subscribe, rate, and connect with us! Your support helps us bring purposeful conversations to listeners everywhere. [embed]https://youtu.be/kU4V0mQje4Y?si=j_y9GKBIvNxM5XMg[/embed]

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s Diary of a Financial Advisor entry, we’re shining a light on one of life’s biggest transitions: preparing—personally and financially—for starting a family. I’m thrilled to be joined by Cody Niedermeier, who brings both professional and personal insights to the table. Not only has Cody been a trusted advisor to countless families over the past six years, but he’s also about to embark on his own journey into parenthood with his wife, Erika. In this candid and heartfelt conversation, Cody and I dove into what it really means to prepare for a growing family. We talked through how those early conversations with your partner set expectations and frame your future together, including important discussions about whether to have children, timing, and navigating shared dreams. As Cody prepares to welcome his first child, we unpacked all that goes into getting ready—from budgeting and nursery setups to making those often-daunting decisions about daycare, changing work schedules, and exploring school options. And because both Cody and I see parenting through the lens of financial planning, we addressed how being in this field shapes your preparedness for the unknown, the necessity of bolstering your emergency fund, reviewing insurance and estate plans, and leaning on professional help—even as an advisor yourself. Beyond the numbers, we delved into the real-life side of parenthood: the flood of unsolicited advice, the emotional weight of new responsibilities, the importance of boundaries with extended family, and the evolving dynamic between partners. Cody shared how this chapter is already making him a more empathetic advisor, ready to relate to his clients in even deeper ways. Here are 5 key takeaways from our conversation with Cody Niedermeier: Start the Conversation Early: Cody emphasized the value of discussing family planning with your partner from the start—making sure both parties are on the same page about having children, lifestyle goals, and their shared vision for the future. Financial Readiness is Ongoing: From daycare costs and household changes to adjusting work schedules, preparing financially for a family requires both planning and flexibility—plus an understanding that it might always cost more than expected. Don’t Neglect the “What Ifs”: Expanding your emergency fund, reviewing insurance coverage, and updating estate documents are crucial steps every family should take when expecting a child, no matter how uncomfortable those conversations might be. Leverage Your Network and Professional Resources: Even as financial professionals, Cody and I both agree on the benefits of seeking advice, collaborating with colleagues, and not hesitating to consult other advisors when preparing for major life changes. Being Present Matters Most: As Cody put it so well, his ultimate career and personal goal is to be a present father who supports and loves his family—and that’s at the heart of both sound financial planning and a fulfilling life. Join us for this open and inspiring discussion as Cody and I explore what it means to plan, adjust, and grow—both as a professional and a parent. If you’re considering starting a family or simply want to ensure your financial house is in order for life’s next big step, this episode is for you. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share the show with friends and family who are looking to better their own financial journeys. Stay tuned for our next diary entry, and remember: Don’t retire… graduate! Learn more about Cody here! [embed]https://youtu.be/QW8gy8DrceM?si=ZbEnRL4RGVXYs9wm[/embed]