Catholic Money Mastermind - Financial Planning conversations with Catholic CFP® Practitioners

The Pope's Warning: Why Catholic Investors Should Be Worried | KJ Smith

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Today, Ben Martinek and new co-host Deb Meyer welcome KJ Smith of Ethos Logos Investments for a thoughtful conversation on artificial intelligence through the lens of Catholic social teaching. Using a recent papal document on AI as their guide, they explore a question that reaches far beyond technology itself: what makes us human, and how can we ensure AI serves rather than diminishes our humanity? KJ explains why the Church’s concerns are not a rejection of AI, but an invitation to consider how rapidly advancing technology affects human relationships, creativity, responsibility, dignity, and the common good. Together, Ben, Deb, and KJ examine the dangers of replacing authentic community with frictionless artificial interactions, concentrating enormous power within unaccountable technology companies, allowing algorithms to make consequential decisions without a moral compass, and prioritizing efficiency and profit over human flourishing. They also consider AI’s tremendous potential, from eliminating menial work and synthesizing information to improving medicine and helping professionals become more productive, while sharing practical examples of how they use AI in their own lives and businesses. The conversation ultimately calls Catholics to neither fear nor blindly embrace artificial intelligence, but to engage it thoughtfully—preserving human judgment, accepting responsibility for how it is used, considering its impact on the poor and vulnerable, and remembering that no technology, however sophisticated, can replace the dignity, creativity, relationships, and capacity for love that belong uniquely to the human person.

Key Takeaways:

• The Church’s concerns about AI are not an argument that using artificial intelligence is inherently sinful.

• Catholic social teaching provides a framework for evaluating new technologies according to enduring truths about human dignity and the common good.

• AI can appear authoritative and objective while still reflecting biases within its data and development.

• Human accountability must remain part of AI-assisted decision-making rather than allowing people or institutions to deflect responsibility onto an algorithm.

• Deb’s experience with AI note-taking illustrates the importance of continually reassessing whether a technology actually improves human presence and professional service.

• AI should ultimately remain subordinate to human flourishing: efficiency, productivity, and profit are valuable, but they cannot replace love of God, love of neighbor, human judgment, or responsibility.

Key Timestamps:

(01:28) – Encyclical, Not Anti-AI

(04:30) – What Makes Us Human

(10:52) – AI Bias and Homogenization

(14:00) – Accountability and Regulation

(24:08) – AI Benefits and Guardrails

(34:36) – Investing with Caution and Ethics

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:

Website: https://ethoslogosinvestments.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kj-smith-cfp-qpfc/

Ethos Logos Investments provides Investment Advisory Services through Discipline Wealth Solutions, an investment advisor registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. See full disclosures at disciplinewealth.com/disclosure

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/advisors/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

SBLOCs Explained: How Wealthy Investors Borrow Without Selling Stocks | Michael Acosta

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Michael Acosta joins Ben to explore an often-overlooked financial planning strategy: using a securities-backed line of credit (SBLOC) to unlock the value of a taxable brokerage account without selling appreciated investments. Together they explain how these lending arrangements work, when they may be appropriate, and how they compare to alternatives like home equity lines of credit, 401(k) loans, and cash value life insurance. The conversation covers the benefits of avoiding capital gains taxes, preserving long-term compounding, managing sequence of returns risk in retirement, and maintaining financial flexibility, while also addressing the risks of leverage, margin calls, and interest costs. Throughout the episode, Ben and Michael emphasize that borrowing against investments is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but rather another planning tool that can help investors make more informed decisions when used prudently within a comprehensive financial plan.

Key Takeaways:

• A securities-backed line of credit (SBLOC) allows investors to borrow against a taxable brokerage account without selling investments.

• Avoiding the sale of appreciated assets can defer or potentially eliminate capital gains taxes through a future step-up in basis.

• Bond-heavy portfolios generally qualify for higher borrowing limits than portfolios concentrated in individual stocks.

• Conservative borrowing—using well below the maximum available credit—helps reduce margin call risk.

• Alternative liquidity sources include HELOCs, 401(k) loans, Roth IRA contributions, 457 plans, and cash value life insurance.

• The decision to use leverage should reflect both sound financial analysis and an individual's comfort with debt and investment risk.

Key Timestamps:

(01:24) – Why Brokerage Money Feels Locked

(05:00) – Introducing SBLOC Basics

(06:30) – Loan-to-Value Explained

(10:22) – Rates and No Closing Costs

(14:14) – Repayment Flexibility and Step-Up in Basis

(18:53) – When Borrowing Beats Selling

(26:50) – Other Ways to Access Liquidity

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/advisors/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Financial Planning Is More Than a Job—It’s a Vocation | Daniel Campos

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 14:00:00 -0400

Today, Ben sits down with Daniel Campos for a deeply reflective conversation on vocation, discernment, and what it truly means to place Christ at the center of one’s professional and personal life. Daniel shares how daily Mass, consistent prayer, spiritual direction, and intentional silence have shaped his ability to hear and respond to God’s call, both in his work as a financial advisor and in the broader responsibilities of family life. Together, they explore the challenge of discerning God’s voice amid the noise and distractions of modern life, emphasizing the importance of creating space to listen, seeking wise counsel, and remaining attentive to the subtle nudges of the Holy Spirit. The discussion also examines the concept of fiduciary duty through a distinctly Catholic lens, arguing that serving clients well requires more than meeting legal standards—it requires a moral commitment to act in another person’s best interest as if they were family, and ultimately as if Christ Himself were sitting across the table. As the conversation unfolds, Ben and Daniel connect financial stewardship, generosity, ethical decision-making, and spiritual growth, proposing that financial advisors can play a unique role in helping individuals align their resources with God’s will. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to pursue holiness through their daily work, trust God’s guidance, and view every professional responsibility as an opportunity to faithfully serve both others and the Lord.

Key Takeaways:

• Discernment begins with developing a consistent prayer life. Daily Mass can provide clarity, direction, and spiritual grounding.

• Spiritual direction helps confirm whether promptings are truly from God.

• Generosity should be guided by wisdom as well as good intentions.

• Financial advisors can help clients align money decisions with their values.

• Every person will ultimately give an account of how they used their gifts and responsibilities.

• Following God's will requires attentiveness, courage, and ongoing discernment.

Key Timestamps:

(01:16) – Meet Daniel Campos

(04:23) – Daily Mass Routine

(12:15) – Living the Liturgical Year

(14:49) – Hearing God’s Call

(26:36) – Fiduciary Duty and Conscience

(34:37) – Financial Spiritual Direction

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:

Website: https://camposfinancialgroup.com/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/members/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Why Legacy Planning for Catholic Families Requires More Than Estate Documents | Matthew Bearth

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Today, Ben welcomes Matthew Bearth for a thoughtful conversation on estate planning, legacy, and the deeper purpose behind wealth stewardship. Together, they explore how financial planning extends far beyond simply passing down money, instead centering on how families can communicate values, intentions, and faith across generations. The discussion emphasizes the importance of preparing not only legal and financial documents, but also ethical wills and letters of instruction that help heirs understand the meaning and responsibility attached to inherited wealth. Ben and Matthew also reflect on the temporary nature of material possessions, encouraging listeners to view money through the lens of eternity rather than control or accumulation. As the conversation develops, they unpack charitable giving strategies—particularly donor-advised funds—and how families can use them to create lasting impact, involve children in philanthropic decisions, and steward assets in a tax-efficient way. From business liquidity events and appreciated stock positions to retirement assets and inheritance planning, the episode highlights practical tools that can help families simplify complexity while remaining aligned with their values. Ultimately, Ben and Matthew invite listeners to approach estate planning not as a cold legal exercise, but as an act of love, clarity, and intentional discipleship that blesses both family and community long after they are gone.

Key Takeaways:

• Estate planning is about more than distributing assets. Financial planning should consider both temporal and eternal priorities.

• Ethical wills can communicate values and intentions to heirs.

• Nonprofits and ministries depend on ongoing donor support.

• Donor-advised funds help families delay charitable decisions while securing deductions. Families can use charitable planning to create multigenerational impact.

• Good financial advisors help clients align money with personal values. Financial guidance can include emotional, spiritual, and relational coaching.

• Clear plans and communication create peace of mind for both families and beneficiaries.

Key Timestamps:

(02:00) – No-Plan Consequences

(04:13) – Probate Costs and Trusts

(08:37) – Defining Legacy Values

(12:46) – Stewardship and Readiness

(17:32) – Ethical Will and Letters

(24:17) – Lifetime Giving Strategy

(32:25) – Donor-Advised Funds Basics

(40:56) – Wrap-Up and Contact

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:

Website: https://www.boxfinancialadvisors.com/team/matthew-bearth

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewbearth/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/advisors/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Branch is located at 901 MARQUETTE AVE SUITE 2800 MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55402. Matthew Bearth is a Registered Representative offering securities through Cetera Wealth Services LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC, a registered investment adviser. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity.

Stop Missing These Costly Tax Mistakes | Leyder “Aiden” Murillo

Wed, 27 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Today, Ben welcomes Aiden Murillo of Wolfpack Wealth Management for a timely, post–tax season conversation on what actually defines a good tax professional—and why many people may be settling for less than they realize. Drawing from real client experiences, the two unpack the difference between transactional tax preparation and relationship-driven advisory work, highlighting how missed details, lack of communication, and blind trust can lead to costly errors or lost opportunities. Aidan shares examples ranging from mishandled cryptocurrency losses to “ghost preparers” who don’t sign returns, while Ben emphasizes how incomplete information, misunderstood tax documents, or even incorrect W-2 reporting can create downstream issues. Together, they stress that taxpayers ultimately bear responsibility for what they sign, making it essential to work with someone who not only prepares returns accurately, but explains positions, asks deeper questions, and understands the full financial picture. They also challenge common misconceptions—like judging a preparer based on refund size—and instead encourage listeners to prioritize transparency, education, and ongoing relationships. Ultimately, this conversation reframes tax preparation from a box-checking exercise into a critical component of long-term financial stewardship, where the right advisor can help clients avoid mistakes, reduce stress, and make more informed decisions year after year.

Key Takeaways:

• Tax season is high-pressure, deadline-driven work for professionals. Many taxpayers treat filing as a simple “check-the-box” task.

• “Ghost preparers” who don’t sign returns are a major red flag.

• Payroll or W-2 errors can create unexpected tax liabilities.

• Refund size is not a valid measure of tax preparation quality.

• As financial complexity increases, advisory-level service becomes more important.

• The best tax outcomes come from transparency, education, and ongoing collaboration.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) – Post Tax Season Reset

(04:57) – Fast Returns Red Flags

(07:35) – Crypto Loss Missed

(11:52) – Why Relationships Matter

(19:26) – Taxpayer Responsibility

(24:55) – Ghost Preparer Red Flags

(28:40) – Backdoor Roth Mistakes

(36:08) – When Tax Forms Are Wrong

(38:48) – Payroll Exempt Withholding Mistake

(43:15) – Refunds Don’t Measure Quality

(45:04) – How to Contact Aiden

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:

Wolfpack Wealth Management: https://www.wolfpackwealth.net/

Wolfpack Tax and Accounting: https://www.wolfpacktaxaccounting.net/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leydermurillo/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/advisors/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Make Money Serve Your Marriage, Not Control It | Kenny Senour

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Today, Ben sits down with Kenny Senour of Legacy Wealth Partners for a candid and deeply practical conversation on the role money plays within married life—and how couples can transform it from a source of conflict into a foundation for unity. Drawing from his personal upbringing and professional experience, Kenny explores why financial tension so often emerges in marriage, especially when couples bring different habits, expectations, and values into the relationship. Together, they unpack the Catholic framework of stewardship, detachment, and personal responsibility, emphasizing that money is not an end in itself but a tool meant to serve the vocation of marriage and family life. The discussion highlights the dangers of secrecy, avoidance, and “financial infidelity,” while offering a hopeful path forward through shared planning, honest communication, and values-based decision-making. From practical tools like budgeting systems and “personal spending” categories to deeper conversations around identity, status, and trust, Ben and Kenny show how couples can align their finances with their faith and their shared mission. Ultimately, they invite listeners to see money not as a scoreboard or source of control, but as an opportunity to grow in unity, freedom, and mutual self-gift within the sacrament of marriage.

Key Takeaways:

• Money is one of the leading sources of conflict in marriage. Couples often enter marriage with different financial habits and expectations.

• “Financial infidelity” (hidden debt, secret spending) can erode trust. Avoiding money conversations can lead to deeper relational problems.

• Values-based exercises can uncover motivations behind financial behaviors.

• Allocating “guilt-free” personal spending money can reduce tension.

• Marriage requires shared ownership of financial decisions and outcomes.

• Healthy financial habits can strengthen—not just support—a marriage.

Key Timestamps:

(03:05) – Why Money Breaks Marriages

(04:38) – Church Teaching on Money

(13:02) – Money Serving the Marriage

(17:48) – Financial Infidelity and Secrecy

(23:30) – How Advisors Help Couples

(25:01) – Values Exercise and Communication

(33:44) – Shared vs Personal Spending

(38:07) – Wrap Up and Where to Find Kenny

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:

Website: https://lwp-llc.com/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/advisors/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Faithful Stewardship, Catholic Generosity, and Tax Strategies for Charitable Giving | Shane Littleton

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Today, Ben welcomes Shane Littleton of Clarity Wealth Development for a rich and practical conversation on charitable giving—why Catholics are called to give, and how to do so with both generosity and prudence. Drawing from Shane’s unique background in seminary formation and years working inside Catholic nonprofits, the two explore the spiritual foundation of stewardship through the lens of the parable of the talents, the universal call to serve the broader family of God, and the interior freedom that comes from detachment. From there, they move into the mechanics: recurring giving, legacy bequests, donor-advised funds, bunching strategies, appreciated stock donations, qualified charitable distributions, and recent legislative updates affecting deductions. Shane offers an insider’s perspective on how charities operate, why administrative costs matter more than many assume, and how thoughtful tax strategy can amplify impact without compromising personal financial security. Together, they remind listeners that generosity is not merely transactional—it is transformative—and that wise planning allows Catholics to scale their giving over time in ways that align faith, family, and long-term stewardship.

Key Takeaways:

• Charitable giving flows from stewardship, not ownership. The parable of the talents provides a framework for responsible generosity.

• Administrative expenses are not inherently wasteful—they support mission delivery.

• Leaving pre-tax retirement accounts (like IRAs) to charities can maximize tax efficiency.

• Employer matching programs can significantly increase charitable impact.

• Donations of property (vehicles, goods-in-kind) may require documentation or appraisal.

• Generosity shapes the giver as much as it supports the recipient.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) – Why Catholics Give

(07:03) – Shane’s Faith Journey

(09:32) – How Nonprofits Use Gifts

(16:49) – Donor Advised Funds

(22:30) – Donate Appreciated Stock

(27:47) – QCDs and RMD Strategy

(31:24) – More Ways to Give

(35:08) – New 2025 Tax Law Changes

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:

Website: https://claritywealthdevelopment.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-littleton-a0ba19126/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/advisors/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

The Stewardship Shift That Strengthens Families, Not Just Finances | Dominick Anton

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0500

Today, Ben sits down with Dominick Anton, a Catholic financial advisor based in Boise, Idaho, for a wide-ranging conversation that traces Dominick’s vocational journey into financial planning and the deeper convictions that shape his work. Dominick shares how his early experiences, professional formation, and faith gradually converged into a calling centered on service, prudence, and long-term stewardship rather than salesmanship or short-term results. Together, they explore the importance of aligning financial advice with a client’s values, the role of trust and relationship in the advisor–client dynamic, and how Catholic social teaching informs Dominick’s understanding of money, responsibility, and human dignity. The discussion also touches on the challenges advisors face in a performance-driven industry, the temptation to overcomplicate solutions, and the quiet power of consistency, discipline, and moral clarity. Throughout the conversation, Ben and Dominick return to a shared conviction: financial planning, when done well, is not merely about portfolios and projections, but about helping families make confident decisions that support a stable, faithful, and well-ordered life over the long run.

Key Takeaways:

• Financial planning is best understood as a vocation rooted in service.

• The financial industry can reward speed and performance over prudence.

• Catholic social teaching provides a moral framework for financial advice.

• Financial advice should reflect the dignity and individuality of each client.

• Long-term thinking is a competitive advantage in financial advice.

• Well-ordered finances support a well-ordered life.

Key Timestamps:

(01:12) – Faith, Finances, and Family

(08:42) – Generational Woundedness and Healing

(17:10) – The Role of a Financial Advisor

(25:16) – The Multiplication of Loaves and Fishes

(32:07) – Catholic Family Finances Initiative

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:

Website: https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/advisors/dominick-anton/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/advisors/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

The Myth of Easy Money—Does the Best Investment Strategy Have to Feel Boring? | Joe Petry & Nick Shiver

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Today, Ben is joined by fellow Catholic Financial Planners Network members Joe Petry and Nick Shiver for a thoughtful conversation on the enduring relationship between risk and reward—and how prudence, discipline, and faith shape wise financial decision-making. Together, they unpack why higher returns always require greater risk, why “get rich quick” strategies prey on greed and impatience, and how human psychology often works against us when markets feel exciting or urgent. Drawing from economics, philosophy, and lived client experience, Joe and Nick emphasize the importance of having a clear financial plan, understanding which risks are truly compensated, and building guardrails that prevent emotion, boredom, or fear of missing out from derailing long-term goals. They explore the value of boring, diversified strategies, the proper role of alternatives and speculative “play money,” and why excitement is often a warning sign rather than a virtue in investing. Woven throughout the discussion is a call to embrace discipline, simplicity, and trust—recognizing that true stewardship is not about chasing easy money, but about aligning risk, effort, and expectations with a life well ordered toward lasting purpose.

Key Takeaways:

• Risk and reward are inseparably linked—higher returns always require greater risk. Investments that claim “no risk” with high returns should be dismissed immediately.

• Humans are wired poorly for risk assessment, especially under fear or excitement.

• Risk should be understood, planned for, and managed—not avoided entirely.

• A small “play” or “cowboy” account can scratch the itch for speculation without endangering the plan.

• Alternatives and real estate can have a role—but never as the foundation of retirement planning.

• There are no shortcuts that bypass effort, patience, or sacrifice.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) – The Relationship Between Risk and Reward

(09:17) – Balancing Optimism and Caution

(17:24) – The Dangers of Get Rich Quick Schemes

(21:07) – Guardrails and Financial Plans

(28:57) – The Benefits of a Simple, Boring Life

(34:08) – Alternative Investments and Diversification

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:

Joe Petry: https://www.mayfair-financial.com/

Nick Shiver: https://www.calmwateradvisors.com/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/advisors/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

The 4 L’s of a Well-Built Retirement | Michael O’Rourke

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Today, Ben is joined by Michael O’Rourke—Apex-based financial advisor, RICP®, and former environmental engineer—for a rich and human-centered conversation about what it really takes to transition from earning a paycheck to generating reliable retirement income. Drawing on years of advising and his work with the Retirement Income Style Awareness (RISA) framework, Michael shares how differences in temperament, risk tolerance, and even marital dynamics shape the way people experience retirement. Their discussion moves beyond spreadsheets into the deeper architecture of a good retirement: understanding longevity risk, discerning lifestyle desires, preparing for late-life care, and shaping a plan that honors each person’s unique “money language.” Together, they explore the surprising reality that adding more guaranteed income can actually expand long-term growth potential, why stability in retirement is more about peace of mind than products, and how thoughtful planning becomes a form of stewardship—one that frees people to enjoy their later years without fear of running out. Grounded in both practical experience and a respect for the human person, the conversation offers a vision of retirement where income supports vocation, strengthens marriages, and gives families the confidence to live generously in the years ahead.

Key Takeaways:

• The “Four L’s” of retirement—longevity, lifestyle, legacy, and liquidity—provide a helpful framework for evaluating retirement readiness.

• The Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP®) designation equips advisors to plan across the full arc of retirement, not just investments.

• Risk capacity changes over time, and retirees may become either more risk-averse or more flexible depending on health, lifestyle, and family dynamics.

• Advisors serve as guides, not dictators, helping clients navigate decisions while honoring their personal values and preferences.

• Compatibility between client and advisor matters; shared values, communication style, and trust can make or break the relationship.

• Ultimately, good retirement planning is a stewardship exercise, giving retirees a sense of peace, purpose, and permission to enjoy the years ahead without fear of running out of money.

Key Timestamps:

(03:39) – Transitioning into Retirement Income

(07:15) – The Four Ls of Retirement Planning

(20:09) – Balancing Safety and Flexibility in Retirement

(27:59) – The Role of Annuities in Retirement Planning

(29:09) – Adapting Investment Strategies to Client Needs

(35:37) – Finding the Right Financial Advisor

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:

Website: https://www.hsiadvisors.net/

Mentions:

Are You a Stock or a Bond?: Identify Your Own Human Capital for a Secure Financial Future by Moshe A. Milevsky Ph.D.

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/advisors/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Pouring Out Without Burning Out: A Catholic Approach to Work-Life Balance | Nick Orenduff & Charlie Horonzy

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Today, Ben sits down with fellow Catholic financial planners Nick Orenduff and Charlie Horonzy for a rich roundtable on what it truly means to live a generous, ordered, and faith-centered life. Together, they wrestle with the tension between self-giving and self-preservation—how to pour ourselves out for God, family, and community without crossing into burnout or misplaced busyness. Nick reflects on the daily discipline of keeping God first, family second, and career third, while Charlie shares how prayer, discernment, and spirituality help him know when to say yes or no to new commitments. The trio also explore how seasons of life shape our ability to serve, how financial boundaries mirror spiritual ones, and why surrendering control is often the most faithful form of stewardship. Woven through their conversation is a deep trust that God’s providence can transform even our limitations into grace. By the end, Ben, Nick, and Charlie invite listeners to view their time, money, and energy not as burdens to manage, but as sacred resources to be aligned with God’s will—one prayerful decision at a time.

Key Takeaways:

• A well-ordered life begins by placing God first, family second, and career third—a framework that helps align all other decisions.

• True generosity doesn’t mean saying yes to everything; it means discerning where God is actually calling you to give.

• The way we serve changes as our responsibilities shift—young parents, for example, are called to focus more deeply on family.

• Offering our struggles and discomfort to God transforms them into acts of love and participation in His plan.

• Recognizing life’s brevity encourages intentionality about how we spend our weeks and years.

• Our careers, finances, and families are not possessions to control but gifts to steward in loving obedience.

Key Timestamps:

(01:55) – Balancing Work and Life

(07:53) – Trusting God and Letting Go

(10:03) – Family Dynamics and Communication

(17:42) – Seasons of Life and Service

(20:24) – Balancing Volunteering and Personal Boundaries

(23:47) – Navigating Life's Noise and Staying Focused on God

(31:46) – The Value of Time and Living Intentionally

Mentions:

Website: https://www.focusedupfinancial.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-horonzy-cfp%C2%AE-cpa-8802b910/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FocusedUpFinancial#

Website: https://www.planmember.com/advisor/?bk=NOrenduff

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-ross-orenduff-cfp%C2%AE-a45a7524b/

Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman

The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/members/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

What If Thomas Aquinas Was Your Financial Advisor? | Chris Schilmoeller

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0400

Today, Ben is joined by Chris Schilmoeller—Orlando-based financial advisor and former FOCUS missionary—for a deep dive into what it might mean to have Thomas Aquinas as your financial advisor. Chris reflects on his own journey from campus evangelization to financial planning, sharing how Aquinas’s emphasis on order, integration, and the proper end of human life continues to shape his work. The conversation explores Aquinas’s treatment of money, happiness, and stewardship, with special attention to the tension between Christ’s teaching on poverty and the practical responsibilities of wealth. Together, they unpack the virtue of liberality as a sign of rightly ordered finances, the dangers of money becoming an idol, and the call to view abundance as an opportunity for generosity rather than self-indulgence. Grounded in both theology and lived experience, their discussion highlights how faith can illuminate financial decisions, offering a vision where money serves not as an end in itself but as a means to deepen virtue, strengthen families, and grow in communion with God and neighbor.

Key Takeaways:

• Thomas Aquinas emphasized order and integration, qualities that can guide financial planning today.

• Money itself is not inherently problematic—it is our attachment to it that can lead us astray.

• Aquinas’s commentary on the Beatitudes highlights that being “poor in spirit” is compatible with financial success if one’s heart is rightly ordered.

• Prudence is required: one should not give recklessly at the expense of family responsibilities.

• Radical poverty is a specific vocation, not a universal mandate for all Christians.

• Financial planning, when ordered toward virtue and stewardship, becomes a pathway to holiness rather than a distraction from it.

Key Timestamps:

(03:02) – Thomas Aquinas: A Brief Introduction

(09:12) – Aquinas as Your Financial Advisor

(16:01) – The Pursuit of Happiness

(21:44) – The Corruptive Nature of Money

(22:36) – Aquinas on Happiness and Money

(26:21) – The Virtue of Liberality

(28:30) – Balancing Wealth and Responsibility

(33:51) – The Role of Stewardship

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances, Thomas Aquinas

Mentions:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisschilmoeller/

Mentions:

https://focus.org/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/advisors/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Is the Wealth Gap a Sign of Injustice? What’s Fair? | KJ Smith

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Today, Ben welcomes KJ Smith—financial advisor, theologian, and founder of Ethos Logos Investments—for a conversation about what it means to bring Catholic social teaching into the heart of financial life. KJ shares how his unlikely pairing of finance and theology has become a vocation, shaping his mission to help Catholics invest in ways that honor both prudence and conscience. Their discussion explores the seven principles of Catholic social teaching—from the inviolable dignity of the human person to the call of solidarity and care for creation—and how these truths offer a framework for making money decisions that serve the common good. KJ reflects on the tension between growth and sacrifice, profit and responsibility, and why stewardship is never merely about returns but about loving one’s neighbor through economic choices. Together, they highlight how Catholic financial planning calls us to reject exploitation, embrace responsibility, and see investing not as speculation but as participation in God’s work of renewal. In the end, the conversation is both practical and deeply theological, inviting listeners to view their financial lives as a lived expression of faith, mission, and love in action.

Key Takeaways:

• Many Catholic institutions follow U.S. bishops’ investment guidelines, but their employee retirement plans often fail to reflect those same values.

• Faith-based investing does not necessarily require Catholic-only funds—it requires avoiding violations of Catholic teaching.

• Catholic investing is not simply about avoiding sin but about directing capital toward companies that contribute to human flourishing.

• Stewardship of creation is a moral responsibility because natural resources are gifts meant to serve present and future generations.

• Solidarity requires recognizing that the suffering of one impacts all, calling us to mutual responsibility.

• Ultimately, Catholic financial planning integrates prudence, justice, stewardship, and love, transforming money decisions into expressions of faith and service.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - KJ Smith's Background and Education

(04:00) - Catholic Social Teaching in Financial Services

(08:46) - Human Dignity and Economic Inequality

(14:09) - Social Responsibility and Community Participation

(16:39) - Rights, Responsibilities, and the Common Good

(21:41) - Balancing Rights and Responsibilities

(24:07) - Personal Discernment and Sphere of Influence

(28:45) - The Dignity of Work and Rights of Workers

(33:21) - Solidarity and Care for God's Creation

(36:27) - Integrating Faith and Finance

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:

Website: https://www.elinvestments.net/

Mentions: Story of a Soul by Saint Thérèse of Lisieux

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/advisors/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

God Blesses Yeses: What Long-Term Commitment Teaches About Wealth | Jessica Chominski

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Today, Ben welcomes Jessica Chominski—financial advisor, Army Reservist, and mother of six—for a conversation that explores the intersection of vocation, sacrifice, and financial stewardship through a deeply Catholic lens. Jessica shares her journey from aspiring social worker and crisis pregnancy center founder to military officer and faith-driven financial planner, reflecting on the quiet strength found in long-term obedience and trust in God’s providence. The discussion unpacks how discipline, suffering, and perseverance—whether in spiritual life or personal finance—can be formative tools when offered in union with Christ. Drawing on her lived experience, Jessica emphasizes the importance of saying “yes” to God’s invitations, even amid uncertainty or discomfort, and how that openness creates space for authentic growth and unexpected joy. Together, they explore how Catholic financial planning uniquely integrates virtue, mission, and peace of heart, ultimately encouraging listeners to see their money, time, and trials as opportunities to serve something far greater than themselves.

Key Takeaways:

• Saying “yes” to God, even without full clarity, opens the door to unexpected blessings.

• Muscle building is a powerful metaphor for spiritual and financial growth—both need resistance.

• Catholic advisors bring more than expertise—they offer values-based guidance.

• A good plan, consistently followed, beats chasing quick wins.

• Having a “why” behind your money decisions leads to freedom.

• Small yeses can lead to major life shifts over time.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Meet Jessica Chominski

(02:07) - Lessons Learned from Military Service and Resilience

(07:47) - Embracing Sacrifice and Endurance in Life and Finance

(13:46) - “God Blesses Yeses” and the Wisdom of Casting a Wide Net

(18:22) - The Crucial Role of a Financial Advisor Beyond Numbers

(25:00) - Integrating Virtue and Faith into Financial Planning

(40:18) - How to Connect with Jessica

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:

Website: https://www.stonecropadvisors.com/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/advisors/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Greed, Generosity, & the True Meaning of Catholic Money | Tim Mayer

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Today, Ben is joined by fellow Catholic financial planner Tim Mayer to unpack the meaning of “Catholic money”—a vision of wealth shaped by stewardship, detachment, and generosity. Grounded in their shared experiences in religious life, Ben and Tim reflect on how faith transforms financial decision-making, shifting the focus from accumulation to service. They explore money’s historical roots in the domestic sphere and draw on Catholic teachings, like via negativa, to clarify what Catholic money isn’t: greedy, self-serving, or fear-driven. Instead, it’s a practical tool meant to support family, community, and the building of God’s Kingdom. Along the way, they discuss the spiritual and emotional depth of financial advising, especially when clients face difficult questions around legacy, values, or sacrifice. This episode invites listeners to see money not just as a resource, but as a vocation—and encourages them to seek advisors who align with both their financial goals and their faith.

Key Takeaways:

• Catholic money is defined by stewardship, generosity, and spiritual detachment—not accumulation or greed. Money is not truly owned but temporarily entrusted to us; we are accountable for how we use it.

• True financial planning involves aligning one’s goals with eternal values, not just material outcomes.

• Catholic advisors can help clients navigate hard questions around marriage, children, and estate planning.

• Living generously is difficult before you do it, but deeply rewarding afterward.

• The best advisor-client relationships are built on shared values and mutual trust.

• Catholic financial planning is ultimately about building the Kingdom of God through intentional money choices.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) – What is Catholic Money?

(02:00) – Tim’s Vow of Poverty

(05:00) – The Origins of “Money”: Roman Roots, Juno Moneta, and Domesticity

(10:00) – What is Money, Really? Function, Purpose, and Spiritual Implications

(14:00) – Via Negativa: Defining Catholic Money by What It’s Not

(16:30) – Greed vs. Stewardship: Where Money Fails and Faith Guides

(18:00) – The Role of Generosity and Detachment in Catholic Finances

(22:00) – Serving Others with Our Wealth

(25:00) – Creating a Virtuous “Flywheel”

(29:00) – Why Shared Values Matter in Financial Relationships

(33:00) – Helping Clients Practice Detachment with Wealth

(38:00) – Why Guidance Helps us Let Go and Give More

(40:00) – How Advisors Help Clients Align Money with Faith

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:

Website: https://www.primeaumayer.com/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/members/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Can Bitcoin, YIMBY, Faith—and Fewer Cars—Rebuild Urban Community? | Wyatt O’Rourke

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0400

Today, Ben welcomes Wyatt O'Rourke—Denver-based financial advisor and founder of Basilic Financial—for a wide-ranging conversation on the interplay between tradition, innovation, and community within a Catholic framework. Wyatt shares his journey of entrepreneurship and reconversion to the faith, emphasizing the integration of spiritual values into financial planning. The discussion examines how technological progress—such as Bitcoin and the rise of network states—can coexist with enduring moral and communal principles, drawing on historical shifts and contemporary challenges like social media and car-centric urban design. The conversation highlights the importance of evaluating innovation through a faith-rooted lens. They critique modern secular ideologies for lacking grounding, while celebrating a revival of tradition among young Catholics and the importance of community, family, and shared purpose. Ultimately, they argue that true progress must deepen human connection and be measured by whether it fosters real communal flourishing.

Key Takeaways:

• Wyatt O’Rourke’s journey—entrepreneurship, reconversion to the faith, and founding Basilic Financial—reflects a desire to integrate values into vocation.

• The Lindy Effect suggests that long-standing ideas and institutions are more likely to endure and should be respected as filters for evaluating novelty.

• Car-centric urban design contributes to isolation; human-scale, walkable environments encourage community and accountability.

• The YIMBY movement, when aligned with Catholic social principles, offers a hopeful vision for more connected cities.

• Moral constancy and family stability are essential foundations for navigating a rapidly changing world.

• Catholics are called to be discerning adopters of technology, ensuring it serves human dignity and divine purpose.

Key Timestamps:
(00:00) – Wyatt's Background and Career Journey

(04:21) – Balancing Tradition and Innovation

(08:03) – Reconciling Faith and Modernity

(22:35) – The Importance of Optimism and Faith

(28:36) – The Importance of Community

(34:29) – Urbanism and Community

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:

Website: https://basilic.io/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wyatt-o-rourke-79723b93/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/members/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Why Retirees Struggle to Spend Their Savings | Michael Acosta & Ujae Kang

Wed, 28 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Today, Ben Martinek and financial planners Mike Acosta and Ujae Kang explore the emotional and financial complexities of preparing for retirement, emphasizing that while data and planning tools are essential, much of the work involves helping clients overcome fear, uncertainty, and guilt around spending. They discuss how financial advising often becomes a form of counseling, addressing identity, purpose, and emotional readiness as much as monetary logistics. The advisors stress the importance of proactive and adaptable planning, noting that while market turbulence is inevitable, a well-structured plan—grounded in trust and sometimes faith—can help clients navigate it with confidence. Drawing from both professional experience and Catholic values, they advocate for a mindset of anti-fragility: using life’s disruptions as opportunities to grow stronger. The episode concludes with encouragement for listeners to seek out trusted advisors and make retirement decisions that align both with their financial means and personal goals.

Key Takeaways:

• Retirement planning is both a financial and emotional journey, requiring attention to numbers and deeper personal motivations.

• Advisors act as both planners and counselors, helping clients navigate emotional hurdles like fear, guilt, and uncertainty around spending.

• Clients often need “emotional permission” to use their own money, especially in retirement, where spending can feel threatening to their identity or security.

• Asking thoughtful questions is central to the advisor’s role, uncovering concerns and desires that might otherwise remain unspoken.

• The financial planning process often reveals unspoken emotional and psychological concerns, especially during major life transitions.

• Planning for retirement isn’t just about having “enough” money, but about knowing what that money is meant to support.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) – Discussing Life Transitions and Retirement

(03:15) – Financial and Emotional Aspects of Retirement

(06:20) – Challenges and Considerations in Retirement Planning

(08:37) – Client Stories and Real-Life Examples

(11:36) – The Importance of Spending and Enjoying Retirement

(25:43) – Overcoming Fear and Building Fortitude

(36:29) – Concluding Thoughts and Contact Information

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Website: https://uakdiversified.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ujaeaugustinekang/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. All investments and investment strategies contain risk and may lose value.

Michael Acosta is a Registered Rep

What is Tactical Asset Allocation? | Jonathan Riesch

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Today, I sit down with Jonathan Reich, a financial advisor at Global View Capital Management and a new member of the Catholic Financial Planners Network. Jonathan shares his journey from working in high-volume client service roles at Fidelity and Equitable to finding a more fulfilling path in personalized financial planning. We dive into tactical asset allocation, a strategy designed to minimize volatility and enhance risk-adjusted returns by dynamically adjusting investments based on market conditions. Unlike traditional strategic asset allocation, this approach uses market-driven stop losses to protect clients from downturns like those seen in 2008 or during the COVID-19 crash. We also discuss leveraging ETFs and options to amplify market positions and the importance of using key indicators to guide investment decisions. Beyond finance, Jonathan reflects on the importance of living with intentionality—balancing financial goals with faith and family, and ensuring that financial success doesn’t overshadow deeper values. We wrap up by encouraging listeners to seek financial advisors who align with their beliefs and long-term priorities.

Key Takeaways:

• Tactical asset allocation adjusts investments based on market conditions, while strategic asset allocation maintains fixed percentages and periodic rebalancing.

• Tactical strategies use market indicators to exit positions before significant downturns, protecting clients from major losses like those in 2008 and the COVID-19 crash.

• Reducing financial stress through proper planning allows for a more balanced, fulfilling life.

• Tactical asset allocation focuses on long-term market trends rather than making daily trades.

• Being part of a values-driven financial network, like the Catholic Financial Planners Network, ensures alignment between financial guidance and personal beliefs.

• While money is useful, true fulfillment comes from faith, purpose, and meaningful relationships.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) – Who is Jonathan Riesch?

(05:27) – Understanding Tactical Asset Allocation

(06:58) – Risk-Adjusted Returns Explained

(15:12) – The Importance of Time-Weighted Returns

(19:38) – Signals for Tactical Asset Allocation

(26:42) – Mentorship and Life Philosophy

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances, Jonathan Riesch, Tactical Asset Allocation

Mentions:

Website: https://gvcmanagement.com/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/members/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Is Investing Just a Calculated Gamble? | Phil Francois & Anthony Guzman

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Today we’re joined for a roundtable discussion with Anthony Guzman and Phil Francois to explore the fundamentals of investing, including employer-sponsored retirement accounts, risk management, and investment strategies that align with personal values. We distinguish between investing and gambling, emphasizing that while both involve risk, investing is strategic and based on positive expected returns. Key principles such as diversification, market participation, and moral screening help build a sound investment strategy while mitigating risk. Opportunity cost plays a crucial role in investing, as conservative strategies offer stability but may not keep pace with inflation, making a balanced approach essential. Ultimately, investing should be goal-oriented, tailored to different life stages, and focused on both financial growth and thoughtful spending. We conclude with practical steps: assessing current strategies, ensuring alignment with long-term objectives, and seeking professional guidance when needed.

Phil Francois is a Certified Financial Planner and founder of Foundation Wealth Planning, dedicated to helping families and business owners navigate financial complexities with a faith-based approach rooted in biblical principles. Anthony Guzman is a fiduciary financial planner dedicated to helping families and individuals achieve peace of mind through holistic financial planning, guiding them to make prudent decisions and steward their resources wisely.

Key Takeaways:

• Financial decisions should reflect personal beliefs, whether through faith-based stewardship or ethical investing.

• A comprehensive financial strategy considers not just investments but overall life goals, risk tolerance, and family priorities.

• Spreading investments across different assets helps mitigate risk and enhance long-term stability.

• Effective financial planning involves optimizing what God has provided to support family, community, and faith-driven goals.

• True financial well-being comes not just from accumulating wealth but from thoughtful spending and alignment with values.

• A trusted advisor helps align financial strategies with personal and family objectives.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - The Basics of Investing and Money Management

(03:49) - The Importance of Diversification in Investing

(13:16) - Managing Risk and Reward in Investments

(19:35) - Fine-Tuning Your Portfolio

(35:46) - Practical Tips for Managing Your Investments

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances, gambling vs investing, risk, inflation, diversification, investment portfolio

Mentions:

Anthony’s Website: https://www.pioneerwealth.com/

Phil’s Website: https://www.foundationwealthplanning.com/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/members/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Alternative Investing: Real Estate, Municipal Debt & Private Lending | Logan Moore

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Today, we feature Logan Moore, who is a CFA charterholder from Kansas City, who shares his expertise on alternative investments and his professional journey. Logan discusses his experience managing high-yield municipal bonds, transitioning to commercial real estate, and co-managing a fund focused on real estate syndications. Alternative investments, which include real estate, private equity, and venture capital, offer potential for higher returns but involve greater risk, complexity, and limited liquidity, often requiring accredited investor status. Logan helps investors and advisors conduct due diligence and integrate alternatives into portfolios, with expected returns typically ranging from high single digits to high teens based on the investment type. The discussion emphasizes the need for guidance in this complex space, the importance of diversification, and the value of faith-based investing, underscoring the collaboration between specialists like Logan and financial advisors to make informed decisions.

Key Takeaways:

• Specialized advisors, like Logan, collaborate with financial planners to guide investors through the complexities of alternative investments, ensuring decisions align with long-term goals and risk tolerance.

• Logan’s professional journey from municipal bonds to real estate and beyond.

• The variety of alternative investments available, like venture capital, private equity, and real estate.

• Logan emphasizes the role of values and faith in investment decisions, highlighting the importance of aligning financial goals with personal beliefs.

• Alternative investments typically involve greater risks and reduced liquidity but offer the potential for higher returns, often ranging from high single digits to high teens, with returns reflecting the level of risk.

• Fees, taxes, and potential risks are pivotal factors in evaluating alternative investment opportunities, underscoring the need for comprehensive due diligence.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Meet Logan Moore, CFA

(02:12) - What is the CFA Designation?

(12:50) - Exploring the World of Alternative Investments

(29:00) - Balancing Risk and Return

(39:56) - Connecting with Logan

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances, alternative investing, Alts Eval LLC, real estate investing, high net worth investing, venture capital, startup investing, CFA, Chartered Financial Analyst

Mentions:

Website: https://altseval.com/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/members/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Avoiding Society’s Money Traps | Deb Meyer & Kevin Reardon

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Today, I’m joined by Kevin Reardon and Deb Meyer to discuss how emotions, societal pressures, and behaviors shape our financial decision-making, especially as Catholics. We explore how fear, greed, and herd mentality can lead to poor financial choices and stress the importance of discipline, diversification, and aligning our actions with core values and faith. Drawing from personal stories, we emphasize the value of creating a clear, personalized financial plan to resist consumer-driven urges and external expectations, like "keeping up with the Joneses." As financial advisors, we see our role as fostering accountability, promoting long-term financial health, and helping clients strike a balance between enjoying life now and securing their future—all while trusting in God’s providence to guide the journey.

Key Takeaways:

• Asking “Where is God in my financial planning?”

• How to avoid get-rich-quick schemes.

• Consideration of how different emotions may play into your financial plans.

• How to choose your influences and avoid “keeping up with the Joneses.”

• What values you should outline for your finances and how to include faith.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Emotional Influences on Financial Decisions

(02:44) - Fear and Greed in Financial Planning

(06:35) - Personal Stories of Financial Mistakes

(12:07) - Marketing and Peer Influences

(22:05) - The Importance of Having a Financial Plan

(29:26) - Accountability and Support in Financial Planning

(35:21) - Conclusion and Contact Information

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances, Deb Meyer, Kevin Reardon, consumption, get rich quick, keeping up with the Joneses

Mentions:

Deb’s Website: https://www.worthynest.com/

Kevin’s Website: https://www.shakespearewm.com/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/members/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

How Much is Enough? | Brian Wayne

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Today, Brian Wayne from LifeGuide Financial Advisors joins Ben Matinek to explore integrating Christian principles into financial planning, emphasizing faith, stewardship, and intentional living. Drawing on themes such as evangelical poverty, detachment, and trust in God’s providence, the discussion highlights the importance of aligning finances with one’s spiritual purpose. Inspired by examples like Rick Warren and saints such as St. Francis of Assisi, Ben and Brian underscore setting "financial finish lines" for spending and saving to foster generosity, spiritual growth, and contentment. They combine practical financial strategies with theological insights, encouraging Christians to view wealth as a tool for charity and service rather than accumulation, ultimately promoting lives centered on holiness and eternal impact.

Key Takeaways:
• Wealth is seen as a gift from God but requires detachment to avoid excess. Faith calls for a balance between providing for oneself and being open to charity.
• These emotions often block openness to others and trust in God’s providence, underscoring the need for sacrificial generosity and faith.
• Greed focuses on acquiring more, while fear revolves around financial insecurity. Both hinder faith in God's providence and the ability to serve others.
• A 10% tithe is viewed as a starting point for detachment and generosity, with openness to God calling for more.
• This concept aligns with biblical teachings, such as the parable of the rich fool, emphasizing reliance on God rather than excessive storage or hoarding.
• Figures like St. Francis of Assisi exemplify evangelical poverty, trusting in God’s provision and focusing on holiness rather than worldly achievements.

Key Timestamps:
(00:00) – Brian Wayne from LifeGuide Financial Advisors
(01:50) – Balancing Wealth and Holiness
(05:00) – Incorporating Evangelical Counsels
(07:12) – Poverty and Charity in Christian Life
(09:32) – Practical Reflections on Wealth and Fear
(13:54) – Examples of Saints and Poverty of Spirit
(19:17) – The Greater Good of Detachment
(22:12) – Practical Considerations for Financial Planning
(23:40) – Establishing Financial Finish Lines
(33:31) – The Savings Finish Line
(37:34) – Christian Financial Goals
(40:13) – Conclusion and Contact Information

Key Topics Discussed:
Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances, Evangelical poverty, Brian Wayne, LifeGuide Financial Advisors, Charity, Greed and Fear

Mentions:
Website: https://lifeguidefa.com/team/brian-wayne/
Mentions:
https://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_const_19641121_lumen-gentium_en.html
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%205%3A1-12&version=RSV
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Timothy%204%3A6-8&version=RSV
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2012%3A13-21&version=RSV
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=waHqUtpt2xg

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:
Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.
https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/members/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Slow, Steady Wealth Accumulation | Robert Franer & Tyler Meyer

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Today we’re joined by financial advisors Robert Franner and Tyler Myler to discuss strategies for long-term wealth accumulation, emphasizing the importance of starting early, automating savings, and maintaining consistent habits. They highlight the power of compound interest, using goals like saving $100,000 by age 30 to demonstrate how early contributions grow significantly over time. They share an example of a couple who built $2 million in wealth through steady savings, emphasizing that financial independence is achievable with discipline and personalized planning. The advisors also caution against overly aggressive saving, which can compromise quality of life, and stress balancing savings with lifestyle. For those pursuing substantial wealth, they suggest entrepreneurship or high-reward investments, while noting the risks involved. Ultimately, they advocate for gradual, realistic savings goals and encourage consulting financial advisors for tailored guidance.

Key Takeaways:
• Starting early with consistent saving is crucial for long-term wealth accumulation due to the benefits of compound interest, allowing smaller contributions to grow significantly over time.
• Setting early financial goals, like accumulating $100,000 by age 30, can provide a strong foundation for future retirement funds and ease financial burdens later on.
• A high but balanced savings rate, like 15% of income (especially with employer matching), is an effective way to build retirement funds without sacrificing current quality of life.
• Caution is advised against overly aggressive saving, as it may lead to a scarcity mindset or compromise on living standards, impacting mental and emotional well-being.
• A gradual, practical approach to saving is recommended, as drastic lifestyle changes can be challenging to maintain, and “braking” expenses later in life may be difficult.

Key Timestamps:
(00:55) Today's Topic: Accumulation Phase
(02:21) Understanding Savings Rate
(03:46) Wade Fowl's Research Insights
(04:52) The Importance of Starting Early
(09:47) Automating Your Savings
(16:08) Achieving Financial Freedom Faster
(20:38) Balancing Aggressive Saving and Enjoying Life
(22:21) Personal Experiences with Saving Strategies
(22:40) The FIRE Community and Different Saving Approaches
(23:52) Challenges of Late-Life Saving
(25:15) The Importance of Consistent Saving
(32:43) Accumulating Wealth Through Entrepreneurship

Key Topics Discussed:
Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances, FIRE, savings plans, wealth accumulating, entrepreneurship

Mentions:
Castellum Financial Advice: https://www.castellumfinancialadvice.com/
QED Wealth Solutions: https://qedwealthsolutions.com/
Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-meyer-cfp%C2%AE-clu%C2%AE-chfc%C2%AE-ricp%C2%AE-cltc%C2%AE-fscp%C2%AE-5bb9b994/
Robert: https://www.linkedin.com/in/franeriii/
Mentions:

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:
Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.
https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/members/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

A Philosopher’s Take on Faith and Finance | Nick Shiver

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Today, Ben discusses the intersection of philosophy and financial planning with Nick Shiver, a wealth advisor from Columbia, South Carolina. Both Ben and Nick hold master's degrees in philosophy, and their conversation explores how their philosophical backgrounds inform their current roles in financial advising. They reflect on the rigorous training in critical thinking and argumentation philosophy provided and its applicability to building comprehensive financial plans rooted in ethical considerations. The discussion also touches on how philosophical education serves as a solid foundation for personal and professional life, integrating rational inquiry with heartfelt guidance for clients. Through their exchange, they advocate for the value of philosophical education in enhancing communication, ethical reasoning, and holistic understanding in the financial sector, encouraging listeners to appreciate philosophy's broader impact beyond academia.

Key Takeaways:
• How does philosophy apply to financial advising?
• Role of critical thinking and ethics in creating comprehensive financial plans.
• Importance of clear communication in forming meaningful client relationships.
• Reflection on philosophical questions related to truth, goodness, and human existence.
• How seminary added to the formation of Ben and Nick’s philosophical mindsets.
• Why you should spend time thinking about your personal philosophies, and be encouraging your clients to do the same.

Key Timestamps:
(00:00) - Meet Nick Shiver: Wealth Advisor and Philosopher
(01:30) - The Journey into Philosophy
(02:49) - Philosophy in Seminary Life
(04:51) - The Practicality of Philosophy
(12:02) - Ethics and the Pursuit of Goodness
(18:57) - Philosophy's Impact on Financial Services
(24:56) - The Value of Philosophical Education
(35:21) - Final Reflections and Encouragement

Key Topics Discussed:
Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:
Website: https://www.calmwateradvisors.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-shiver-296b9a76/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:
Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.
https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/members/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network and email info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

How to Become a Financial Adviser | Bryan Smalley, Lance Peters, Charlie Horonzy

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Ben, along with advisors Bryan Smalley, Lance Peters, and Charlie Horonzy, provide valuable insights into the world of financial advising. The discussion covers the daily life of financial advisors, the industry’s various channels, client types, regulatory bodies, and the significant personal satisfaction derived from serving clients. They also explore the diverse paths to entering the financial services industry, including education, networking, and certifications. Inspirational pointers on thriving within the field, especially as a person of faith, are shared to guide aspiring financial advisors. If you’re considering a career change, or just want a little peek at the world of financial advising, this is the episode for you.

Key Takeaways:
• How are financial advisors regulated?
• What are the day to day activities of a financial advisor?
• What do Ben, Charlie, Bryan, and Lance enjoy most about this industry?
• What’s the difference between a financial advisor and a paraplanner?
• How does financial advising give an opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives?
• What certifications will you need to become a financial advisor?

Key Timestamps:
(00:00:00) - Introduction
(00:02:11) - Day-to-Day Life of a Financial Advisor
(00:09:21) - Different Roles and Specializations
(00:14:41) - Personal Connections and Client Relationships
(00:23:35) - Getting Started in Financial Planning
(00:28:30) - Specializations and Certifications
(00:34:30) - Finding Your Niche
(00:40:40) - Final Thoughts and Advice

Key Topics Discussed:
Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances, Bryan Smalley, Lance Peters, Charlie Horonzy, certified financial planner, regulations on planners

Mentions:
Website: https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/
Mentions:
https://www.kitces.com/
https://retirementresearcher.com/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:
Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/financial-planners/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network: info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Listen, Listen. Love, Love. | Joe Petry

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Joe Petry, a fellow member of the Catholic Financial Planners Network and founder of Mayfair Financial, shares his journey from economist to financial planner, motivated by his firsthand experience with retirement and ministry. In this episode, Joe emphasizes the importance of empathy, trust, and integrating faith into his work. From working with a refugee support initiative and the Kairos prison ministry to his time teaching economics at the university level, Joe brings a wealth of empathy and knowledge to his work. His experiences have deepened his understanding of compassion and the significance of treating others with dignity, which he applies to his role as a financial advisor, particularly in helping clients navigate the psychological and financial challenges of retirement. If you’re looking to learn how ministering and financial planning go hand in hand, this is the episode for you.

Key Takeaways:

• How Joe went from economist to financial planner.

• How Joe’s experience ministering to Afghan refugees informs his work as a financial planner.

• What is an ACTS Retreat?

• What it’s like to minister in the prison system.

• How God’s love can help us become better financial planners.

• Joe’s mantra, “Listen, listen. Love, love.”

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) – Joe's Background and Career Shift

(05:33) – The Role of a Trusted Financial Advisor

(08:52) – Joe's Ministry Work with Refugees

(16:18) – Integrating Faith and Financial Planning

(23:09) – Ego and God's Work

(24:51) – Kairos Prison Ministry

(25:41) – ACTS Retreats: A Path to Vulnerability

(30:36) – Connecting Ministry to Financial Advising

(34:05) – Transformative Experiences in Prison Ministry

(42:55) – Listen, Listen, Love, Love

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances, Joe Petry, prison ministry, ACTS Retreat, refugees

Mentions:

Website: https://www.mayfair-financial.com/

Mentions: https://www.actsmissions.org/about/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members

Investing 101: Stocks, Mutual Funds, and ETFs Explained | Nick Orenduff

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the podcast hosted by Ben Martinek from the Catholic Financial Planners Network, guest Nick Orenduff of Orenduff Associates shares his insights on various investment vehicles and the importance of diversification. They discuss the differences between stocks, mutual funds, ETFs, and bonds, highlighting the roles these instruments play in a diversified investment portfolio. The conversation also covers the distinctions between fixed income investments and stock ownership, explaining the purposes and benefits of each. Additionally, they emphasize the significance of long-term investing and prudent financial planning for achieving financial freedom, particularly as one approaches retirement. If you’re looking for a quick introduction to investing, this is the episode for you!

Key Takeaways:

• What’s the difference between stocks, mutual funds, ETFs, and bonds? And how do I know which investment vehicle is right for me?

• How diversification and long term thinking will lead to success.

• How Isaac Newton got swept up in the stock market.

• Why are bonds less popular than stocks? And what are their benefits?

Key Timestamps:

(00:00:00) - Introduction

(00:01:34) - Nick's Journey in Financial Planning

(00:02:42) - Understanding Investing

(00:07:16) - What is a Stock and Why Do Companies Sell It?

(00:16:59) - Mutual Funds and ETFs Explained

(00:24:19) - Exploring Fixed Income Investments

(00:29:00) - How Can Bonds Serve Investors?

(00:31:26) - The Importance of Diversification

(00:34:08) - Letting the Markets Work for You

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances, Nick Orenduff, Orenduff and Associates, stock market, ETFs, bonds, investments

Mentions:

Nick’s Website: https://www.planmember.com/orenduff/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Are you looking to hire an advisor? Browse our members.

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/financial-planners/

Are you a Financial Advisor who is serious about the Catholic Faith? Join our network.

info@catholicfinancialplanners.com

Income Tax Efficiency | Charlie Horonzy

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400

We’re all going to pay taxes, but knowing how the system works can prepare us for retirement with a little more money in our savings accounts. Today’s guest, Charlie Horonzy, returns to discuss the ways we can use the tax code to our advantage. We discuss how tax planning is one of the most critical aspects of financial planning, how much better retirement can be when well-planned for, and when you should be paying taxes now vs later. Charlie gives some great examples of how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act can benefit different people depending on their tax bracket and why an emergency fund is an important part of tax planning. Near the end of the episode we discuss why your planner and your accountant must be communicating, in order for you to get the best deal on your taxes - without any surprises. This episode is a great listen for anyone ready to dig a little deeper into their tax plans.

Key Takeaways:
• How saving a few percentage points on taxes each year will pay off in the long run.

• Should you pay taxes now or later? And what savings plans are going to be right for your situation?

• How different accounts and careful reading of documents can save you a lot of pain.

• Why you should ensure your accountant and your financial planner are communicating.

Key Timestamps:
(00:00:00) - Introduction
(00:01:33) - Financial Planning is Tax Planning
(00:06:23) - Taxes Now or Taxes Later?
(00:10:17) - Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
(00:15:12) - Tax Planning for Retirement
(00:21:02) - How to Adapt Savings to Taxes
(00:23:40) - How to Plan for Changes of Plan
(00:28:22) - Emergency Funds for Tax Surprises
(00:32:02) - The Backdoor Roth
(00:35:10) - Your Planner and Accountant Need to Collaborate
(00:37:49) - Charlie’s Closing Comments

Key Topics Discussed:
Catholic Financial Planning, Catholic Financial Advisors, Catholic Money Mastermind, Faith, Finance, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Roth IRA, 401k, tax deferred

Mentions:
Website: https://www.focusedupfinancial.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-horonzy-cfp%C2%AE-cpa-8802b910/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:
Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Usury: Are Interest Bearing Investments Ethical? | Jerod Frank

Wed, 22 May 2024 03:00:00 -0400

The nature of the sin called usury has its proper place and origin in a mutuum contract. Jerod Frank, a financial advisor and recent Catholic convert, shares his personal journey of grappling with the concept of usury within the context of ethical and moral investing. We answer questions such as should there be limits to profits? Jerod delves into the distinction between mutuum and societas loans, emphasizing the potential for perpetual indebtedness as the defining factor of usury. He also raises concerns about exploitative lending practices and the ethical implications of perpetuating a culture of living beyond one's means. Throughout the conversation, Jerod's authentic insights as a recent convert and financial advisor add depth to the discussion, highlighting the importance of aligning faith with professional conduct. The episode provides valuable insights into the concept of usury from a Catholic perspective, offering thought-provoking considerations for investors and financial professionals regarding the moral implications of interest-bearing investments and the broader impact on individuals and society making it a valuable resource for individuals seeking to understand the intersection of finance and ethics within the context of Catholic teachings.

Key Takeaways:

What is the concept of usury from a Catholic perspective and how does it impact modern financial practices?
How can the teachings of the Catholic Church guide ethical lending and investing decisions?
What are the potential ethical dilemmas associated with high-interest lending such as credit cards and payday loans?
How can investors and financial advisors align their investment choices with principles of human dignity and the common good?
What resources are available within the Catholic Church to deepen understanding of ethical financial practices?

Key Timestamps:

(00:00:00) - Introduction
(00:01:27) - Jared’s Conversion to Catholicism
(00:04:34) - Understanding Usury
(00:08:50) - Issues with Usurious Transactions
(00:12:42) - Understanding the Distinction of Collateralized Loans
(00:13:35) - Evaluating the Morality of Interest Rates
(00:17:33) - Bankruptcy as a Safeguard Against Usury
(00:19:47) - The Moral Implications of Credit Card Lending
(00:22:26) - Practical Implications for Investors
(00:25:26) - Understanding Usury and Corporate Bonds
(00:26:11) - Old Testament Laws and Financial Ethics
(00:27:04) - Ethics in Financial Transactions

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Financial Planning, Catholic Financial Advisors, Catholic Money Mastermind, Faith, Finance, Usury, Usurious, Ethical Investing, Credit Card Lending, Perpetual Loans, Mutuum Contracts

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Approval Code: 6653099RG_May26

Mentions:

Website: https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/members/jerodwealthcoordinationpartners-com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerod-frank/

Resources: https://www.newadvent.org/summa/3078.htm

https://www.papalencyclicals.net/ben14/b14vixpe.htm

https://zippycatholic.wordpress.com/2014/11/10/usury-faq-or-money-on-the-pill/#31

https://lendhopingnothing.wordpress.com/pius-

Planning for the Unknown | Sarah Kang

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Sarah Kang is a Certified Financial Planner with UAK Diversified, a firm she runs with her husband. With a focus on the personal side of financial planning, Sarah brings her experience as a music teacher to planning in a way that allows her to break things down in a way that just makes sense. In this episode, Ben and Sarah discuss how helping people can be meaningful and how, even with uncertainty ahead, we can always create a plan, we just may need to pivot. If you’re looking for a light conversation about what it means to be a planner, this is the episode for you.

Key Takeaways:

How a love for music led to a love for finances.
Financial planning is about peace of mind.
How Sarah finds meaning in helping people with financial planning.
How to plan for uncertainty (and keep it updated).
Why it’s important to work as a team.
How to keep your financial goals realistic.

Mentions

🌐 Website: https://uakdiversified.com/

👉🏼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pianist2/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Home Calculator: Should You Rent or Buy? | Michael Acosta

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0400

With 9 years in the finance industry, Michael Acosta returns to the show with some insights on homeownership. Michael is driven to work for his clients with the guidance of his tag line “Prepare, Perform, Prosper”. Questions discussed in this episode include: Should you pursue homeownership? Is a home a good investment? And is renting bad? All that, and more on this episode of Catholic Money Mastermind.

Key Takeaways:

What makes renting is a good decision.
When it can be worth it to buy instead of rent.
What makes your home an investment?
Why you may not want to look at your home as an investment.
What variables to consider when deciding whether to rent or buy.
How much should you be spending on your home?

Mentions:

👉🏼 Michael Acosta: https://wealthtender.com/financial-advisors/michael-acosta-cfp-chfc/

📚 Resource Name: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2014/upshot/buy-rent-calculator.html

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Is a Single Income Household Worth the Sacrifice? | Bryan Smalley

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 23:00:00 -0500

Bryan Smalley is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) with a BA from the University of Toledo and an MA from Bowling Green State University. With a focus on “taking the scary out of retirement planning”, Bryan helps his clients focus on all the joys of retirement. Living in New Jersey with his wife and their 4 children, Bryan brings to this episode his perspective on having a single income household, homeschooling, and how these decisions impact your financial life. Of course, there’s more to life than just money, which Ben and Bryan discuss in this episode.

Key Takeaways:

Things to know before becoming a single income household.
The benefits of one parent staying at home.
Some surprising cost savings come with a reduction to a single income.
How to test run a single income and prepare with a cushion.
How private, public, or home schooling can factor into your decision.

Mentions

🌐 Website: https://corient.com/find-an-advisor?search=bryan&advisor=Bryan+Smalley

👉🏼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryandsmalley/

📚 Is It Better for Moms to Stay at Home? | Deb Meyer: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/is-it-better-for-moms-to-stay-at-home-deb-meyer-podcast/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Praying with Your Planner | Lance Peters

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0500

With over 30 years of experience as a financial planner, Lance is one of the most experienced people in the Catholic Financial Planners Network. Lance is the Founder and CEO of Nautical Star Financial, whose name echoes Lance’s time in the Navy. In this episode, Lance tells Ben how he brings a Christian approach to financial planning - even praying with clients! If you’re looking for deeper insight on what it means to be a Catholic financial planner, this is the episode for you.

Key Takeaways:

How your financial advisor’s perspective will affect your planning.
What it means to be a steward of your resources.
How to find an advisor with the Christian mentality you’re looking for.
How Lance involves prayer in his financial practice.
Why everyone should know the regulations followed by their advisor.

Mentions

🌐 Website: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/members/tylerdrexeldayfinancial-com/

🌐 Website: https://www.nauticalstarfinancial.com/

👉🏼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lancepeters/

📚 The Mission of My Life by Saint John Henry Cardinal Newman: https://www.dioslc.org/documents/139.pdf?v=20210308133704

📚 The 4 Pillars of Catholic Social Teaching | Tyler Hackenberg: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/the-4-pillars-of-catholic-social-teaching-tyler-hackenberg-podcast/

📚 A Mission of My Life PDF: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NY7HdrAJuYqBtUYDwJpD_GvNMEpsEBR8/view

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Holistic Life Planning and Assembling a Board of Directors | Anthony Guzman

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Anthony specializes in holistic family planning with focus on early career and family, retirement transition, tax preparation, and real estate investing. Having always wanted to help as many people as possible, Anthony became a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) helping his clients with financial literacy - regardless of their wealth. In this episode, Ben and Anthony discuss holistic life planning, expanding beyond finances to touch on mental, emotional, spiritual, and relational health. If you’re looking to live a more fulfilling life and develop the financial skills to do it, this is a great place to start!

Key Takeaways:

Financial planning involves more than just money.
Good financial planning starts with holistic life planning.
In what do you find meaning in life?
Anthony’s “Examination of Conscience”.
What types of people you want to surround yourself with, as a sort of board of directors, to give a balanced approach to life.
How to adopt your own “rule of life”.

Mentions

🌐 Website: https://www.pioneerwealth.com/

👉🏼 Anthony: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/members/anthonypioneerwealth-com/

📚 George Kinder: https://www.georgekinder.com/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Escaping the Paycheck to Paycheck Cycle | Phil Francois

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Phil joins us from Foundation Wealth Planning in Salina, Kansas. He’s also a member of the Catholic Financial Planner Network, integrating his faith with his financial practice. With 8 years experience at a large financial firm, Phil left to start his own practice about 2 years ago. One of his major focuses has been to help families and businesses break the paycheck to paycheck cycle by tackling debt obligations, living expenses, and saving for the future.

In this episode, Ben and Phil discuss how to change your perspective on your finances, a variety of budgeting solutions, and how surprised you might be by your expenditures once you start budgeting. Phil highlights a few ways you can get the ball rolling, motivating you to keep going. If you’re wondering where your paycheck is going and want to learn how to get out of this cycle, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

Take ownership and honestly consider your financial reality.
Your situation isn’t always as bad as you might think - there’s a way out!
The only way to know how much you’re spending is to track it.
How keeping a budget can help you adjust to the rising cost of living.
You need a plan for cutting expenses AND earning more money.
How to use your resources to advance your financial goals.

Mentions:

🌐 Website: https://www.foundationwealthplanning.com/

👉🏼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-francois1/

📚 Vertex 42: https://www.vertex42.com/

📚 EveryDollar: https://www.ramseysolutions.com/ramseyplus/everydollar

📚 Monarch: https://www.monarchmoney.com/

📚 Tiller: https://www.tillerhq.com/

📚 YNAB: https://www.ynab.com/

📚 WalletWin: https://walletwin.com/

📚 Catholic Compass: https://compasscatholic.org/

📚 Catholic Financial Planners: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Finding Faith in a Financial Downturn | Kevin Reardon

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we explore the challenging and rewarding journey of Kevin Reardon, a seasoned financial advisor who started his career in 1992. Through the highs and lows of his career, Kevin opens up about the hardships he faced during the early 2000s and how having faith, persevering through difficulties, and focusing on service can help navigate life's ups and downs in a spiritually fulfilling way. Challenges are opportunities to grow closer to God. Tune in to this enlightening episode as Kevin shares his inspiring journey of resilience and faith against all odds.

What You’ll Learn:

Kevin's early career, leaving a firm due to conflicts of values, and the initial successes of his independent firm, Shakespeare Wealth Management
Kevin describes the tech bubble burst, causing his business to drop to $8 million in assets under management
Kevin shares about his personal and business financial obligations and struggles during the downturn
The tough decisions Kevin had to make to keep his business afloat, including letting go of his administrative assistant and circulating his resume as a backup plan
The vital role Kevin's Catholic faith played in helping him navigate through his trials, emphasizing on concepts like persistence, deferred gratification, and trusting in God's plan
Kevin talks about considering other career options as a backup plan
Kevin shares how he kept moving forward during the low point
The transformation Kevin underwent post his financial crisis, learning valuable lessons on humility, money and success
Kevin's focus shifts to serving others and giving back, becoming actively involved in Catholic charities and service opportunities, and committing to saying yes to helping others

More of Kevin:

Shakespeare Wealth Management: https://www.shakespearewm.com/kevin-reardon-cfp/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Is It Better for Moms to Stay at Home? | Deb Meyer

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Today, Deb Meyer, CFP®, CPA/PFS, CEPA, joins us to chat about women balancing motherhood with their professional careers. Throughout history, there has been a prevailing belief that women should primarily fulfill their roles within the household. Deb’s journey in being a mom and business owner has led her to address certain concerns within the Catholic faith regarding gender roles. After raising kids as a stay at home mom while working, Deb now seeks to help other families develop a financial and investment plan that aligns with their family’s values.

Key Takeaways:
Gender roles within the Christian faith
Bringing balance to the family unit with feminine energy
Raising kids in a dual income household
Financial feasibility of childcare
Balancing motherhood with your professional career
Chasing entrepreneurship on the side of motherhood
Readjusting vs doubling down on your commitments
Single income arrangements and dynamics

Mentions:
Mere Christians: https://podcast.jordanraynor.com/

More of Deb:
🌐 Website: https://www.worthynest.com/
👉🏼 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WorthyNest/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:
https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Learn THIS Before the Realities of Retirement Set In | Tyler Meyer

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Some small changes can make a big difference. Tens, if not hundreds of thousands of dollars are at stake in getting that one decision right like with social security. You really will impact your quality of life as these decisions start to compound. So, let’s get ahead of the decisions that’ll most drastically affect our retirement. Today, Tyler’s going to share what areas in our personal and financial lives deserve a second look.

What You’ll Learn:

Retiring to rather than retiring from
What is Coast FI?
Why retirement planning is more than just financial planning
What fulfillment looks like in retirement
The retirement smile spending patterns
Preventing elderly abuse
The best way to retire
Good planning doesn’t cost, it pays

Mentions:

Elder Abuse Can Happen to Anyone, Are You Protecting Your Loved Ones? https://www.qedwealthsolutions.com/blogs/blog7.11.23.html

More of Tyler:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/tyler-j-meyer-cfp/

https://www.qedwealthsolutions.com/index.html

Raising Money Smart Kids | Robert Franer

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400

You might have your kids saving up in piggy banks, but how do you get them ready to tackle money in the real world? Today’s guest, Robert Franer, has a ton of actionable advice when it comes to instilling the foundation money skills your kids need to master. Of course, parenting looks different for everyone, but this episode will have you thinking about a framework to building your children's money mindset, spending habits, and investing predisposition.

What You’ll Learn:

What does it mean to be good with money?
The dichotomy between encouragement and discipline
Instilling a sense of charity into your kids’ money mindset
Grooming spending habits early on
Transitioning your kids into providing for themselves
An approach to credit cards at an early age

More of Robert:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/robert/

http://www.castellumfinancialadvice.com/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

How Catholics Can Bring Prayer to Their Finances | Charlie Horonzy

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Ben Martinek and Charlie Horonzy talk about how to bring prayer into your finances, the insecurity that's associated with it, and the specific methods that they use. Amidst uncertainty, prayer plays a crucial role in helping us stay grounded, seek guidance and find the strength to fulfill our responsibilities.

"I think God wants us to be saints.. and everything in our life is helping us to get to heaven."

- Charlie Horonzy

What You’ll Learn:

Lectio Davina prayer and other meditation exercises
Surrendering to God’s providence, especially in financial matters
Financial challenges and anxieties are present regardless of one's wealth
The struggles in life can be viewed as crosses that teach valuable lessons
Balancing ambition and gratitude
Faith can be a rollercoaster, but persistence is key

Mentions:

Teach Us How to Pray: https://www.amazon.com/Teach-Us-Pray-Prayers-Bible/dp/158134967X

The Hallow App: https://hallow.com/

The Amen App: https://amenapp.org/

More of Charlie:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/charlie/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

The Noblesse Oblige | Andy Flattery

Wed, 31 May 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Ben Martinek and Andy Flattery delve into generational wealth, family dynamics and inheritance, and the inferred responsibility of those who have wealth to act with generosity toward those who are less privileged.

The discussion unravels the power dynamics that shape society. Explore the contrasting responses, from the trad Catholic movement to Catholic homesteaders and the Postliberals, as they navigate the current state of affairs with their unique perspectives.

In a society that champions individualism, the role of families in cultivating excellence and nourishing deep roots provides tension between the American ideal and the pursuit of familial virtues. Andy attempts to uncover the complexities of fairness and equality, as well as the challenges inherent in addressing inequalities, concentration of power, and setting meaningful examples of virtue.

In addition, discover the true essence of wealth and its impact on society as the conversation delves into the responsibility and obligations of those who possess it. Explore the idea of "Die With Zero," challenging the traditional notion of leaving a multi-generational financial legacy. Critique the potential pitfalls of generational wealth and the implications it holds for personal development and societal well-being. Prepare to question your own understanding of wealth, legacy, and the pursuit of a virtuous life.

Mentions:
Nobility and Analogous Traditional Elites: A Theme Illuminating American Social History: https://www.amazon.com/Nobility-Analogous-Traditional-Elites-Illuminating/dp/0819193100

Die With Zero: https://www.amazon.com/Die-Zero-Getting-Your-Money/dp/0358099765

More of Andy:
The Reformed Financial Advisor podcast: https://simplewealthkc.com/reformed-financial-advisor-podcast/

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/andy/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

The Virtues of Money: Is Building Wealth Good? | Joe Ibarra

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Ben Martinek and Joe Ibarra discuss how building wealth is tangential to growing in virtue.

Most people wouldn’t consider building wealth as an opportunity to refine the virtues of patience, discipline and generosity. In this episode, Joe Ibarra deliberates how the journey to generating wealth comes with a testament of these skills.

Joe graduated first in his class from Rockhurst University in Kansas City, MO where he studied Philosophy and Accounting. He is a Financial Planner at Falcon Wealth Advisors based in Kansas City, MO, but has clients in 23 states across the country. Falcon Wealth Advisors specializes in providing fiduciary-driven, goals-based, and product-free advice.

What You’ll Learn:

How the stomach is an investor’s most important organ
Why temperament pays over technical information when it comes to investing
Discipline is a virtue that can only be applied in small increments
What is money supposed to accomplish for us?

More of Joe:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/joe-ibarra/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

The Four Pillars of Catholic Social Teaching | Tyler Hackenberg

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Ben Martinek and Tyler Hackenberg provide an insightful discussion on how Catholic social teaching can be integrated into financial planning and decision-making.

We hear the story of Tyler Hackenberg, a former Westminster Theological Seminary student who is now a Catholic financial advisor located in the greater Philadelphia area. Tyler's journey to Catholicism started at Vanguard with a client requesting a donation to Planned Parenthood. This request led Tyler to explore Catholic social teaching and recognize the infinite human dignity of the unborn.

Tyler discusses the legacies of St. Katharine Drexel and Dorothy Day. As a financial advisor, Tyler's practice, Drexel Day Financial, is grounded in the four pillars of Catholic social teaching, human dignity, common good, subsidiarity and solidarity.

Tyler highlights defending the less fortunate by recognizing the wealth in each person regardless of socio-economic status. In his financial practice, Tyler emphasizes making decisions that have a positive impact on the environment and society, as we are all connected as human beings.

More of Tyler:

Website: https://drexeldayfinancial.com/

Biography: http://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/tyler-hackenberg-cfp/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerhackenberg/

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

Goal Planning in 2023 | Michael Acosta

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Ben Martinek and Michael Acosta discuss goal setting in 2023.

"I love goal setting. I have to say, when I first got started setting goals, it's kinda like, uh, do I really need to do this? Is it necessary? And I have to say, after being in business for many years and working with clients for many years, yes! Goal setting is important. At the end of the day, on a practical level, if we wanna be able to look back at our lives and have something to show for our hard work, I really think you can't get away from goal setting."
- Ben Martinek

Show notes: http://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/goal-setting-in-2023-michael-acosta-podcast/

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS,
Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning, LLC and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. All investments and investment strategies contain risk and may lose value.

Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. Genesis Wealth Planning, LLC is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. CA Insurance License #0M50974.

The 401(k) Debate, Money Habits, & Catholic Apologetics | Trent Horn

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Ben Martinek and Joe Ibarra host Trent Horn – Apologist for Catholic Answers and host of The Counsel of Trent podcast – to discuss money principals regarding retirement as a Catholic, Trent’s recent debate with New Polity’s Jacob Imam on Pints with Aquinas, everyday money habits, as well as how Trent got into the world of Catholic apologetics. This episode includes universal principals and specific takeaways, Scripture passages and personal experiences, perspectives from financial advisors and a Catholic apologist… and everything in between!

A Conversation with the Benedictines of Mary, Queen of the Apostles

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Andy Flattery visits with Mother Abbess Cecelia of the Benedictines of Mary, Queen of the Apostles in Gower, MO. They talk about restoring civilization, growing your own food, the life of a traditional nun, the latin mass, and the munificence of supporting the building of new monasteries.

Read the article: Meet the Catholic Nuns Who Are Building a New Church with Bitcoin

If you would like to help the sisters build a new monastery in southern Missouri, please do so on their website.

The Crypto Episode

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

This month on the Podcast, we talk with Matthew Pinto to discuss how the emerging space of Crypto is relevant to the Catholic Faith. We also discussed his current venture: The Catholic/Crypto Conference 2022, which will bring together Catholic thought leaders, technologists, crypto enthusiasts, and evangelists-at-heart for two full days of seminars, Meet-ups, strategy sessions, networking, and fun.

Show Notes: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/the-crypto-episode-podcast/

What to do about Student Loans Right Now

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

There have been important changes within the Federal Student Loan landscape with the recent announcement in late August regarding Federal Forgiveness opportunities for borrowers. In this episode our very own Ben Martinek and Michael R. Acosta discuss what borrowers need to be aware of as the prepare for student loan payments to resume in January of 2023. As Certified Student Loan Professionals with extensive backgrounds in student loan planning both Ben and Michael provide insights into what borrowers should be considering when choosing the right repayment strategy. Be sure to listen to the end where we discuss the morality behind debt forgiveness and if it is something we should be cautious of as practicing Catholics.

Show Notes: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/student-loans-podcast/

Is it Immoral to Invest in a 401(k) Plan?

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Ben Martinek, Deb Meyer and Tyler Hackenberg of Catholic Financial Planners Network discuss the recent Pints with Aquinas debate between Jacob Imam and Trent Horn about the morality of investing in 401(k) plans for retirement. Jacob Imam argues that 401(k) investing is immoral because of its speculative nature, while Trent Horn points to magisterial authority that we are permitted as Catholics to invest in 401(k) plans – or any other savings vehicle for that matter.

Tune into unique perspectives on this episode of Catholic Money Mastermind.

Show Notes: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/is-it-immoral-for-a-catholic-to-invest-in-a-401k-plan-podcast/

Roe v Wade Overturned: How to Respond as a Catholic

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Today’s episode of Catholic Money Mastermind discusses a controversial topic: the overturning of Roe v Wade and its implications for Catholics who wish to invest in alignment with their moral values. After the Supreme Court decision, some sizable companies declared that they would pay for employees’ medical care to obtain abortions in states where it is still allowed. Should we automatically exclude these companies from our investment portfolios? Michael Acosta of Consolidated Planning, Tyler Hackenberg of Drexel Day Financial and Deb Meyer of WorthyNest® offer their unique perspectives after this historic decision.

Show Notes: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/roe-v-wade-overt…catholic-podcast/

Conquer your Fears During This Bear Market

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Financial headlines are overly pessimistic. Tyler Hackenberg of Drexel Day Financial, Joe Ibarra of Falcon Wealth Advisors and Deb Meyer of WorthyNest® discuss the current bear market and hidden opportunities for a variety of Catholics -- from young professionals to pre-retirees. We also touch on Pope Francis’ recent advice to retirees to “leave a legacy of good.” Please join us for this timely episode of the Catholic Money Mastermind podcast!

Show Notes:https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/the-bear-market-episode-podcast/

The Impact of Inflation: Long-Term Approach for Addressing Short-Term Concerns

Wed, 25 May 2022 04:00:00 -0400

On this episode of Catholic Money Mastermind podcast, Deb Meyer of WorthyNest®, Ben Martinek of Bona Fide Finance and Michael R. Acosta of Consolidated Planning, Inc. discuss the impacts of #inflation on households and how it is playing a role in the short-term financial decisions we make. Be sure to listen to the end when the group provides thoughtful insights on how to better manage your emotions now while still focusing on the long-term horizon of your financial plan!

Show Notes: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/the-impact-of-inflation-long-term-approach-for-addressing-short-term-concerns-podcast/

Money Management for Catholic Couples | Jonathan & Amanda Teixera

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Catholic Money Mastermind hosts Deb Meyer of WorthyNest® and Ben Martinek of Bona Fide Finance are joined by two very special guests today. Amanda and Jonathan Teixeira are the duo and happily married couple behind WalletWin, where they help everyday people create the life of their dreams by getting intentional with money. Additionally, the Teixeira’s share smart money principles from their first book -- How to Attack Debt, Build Savings, and Change the World Through Generosity: A Catholic Guide to Managing Your Money. We’re excited to share this interview with you!

Show Notes: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/money-management-for-catholic-couples-w-jonathan-amanda-teixera-podcast/

Charitable Giving from a Catholic Perspective

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0400

As Catholics, why do we give to charities? What is tithing, and should it be based on a gross or net amount of income? What federal and state tax advantages are there for charitable giving? Ben Martinek of Bona Fide Finance and Deb Meyer of WorthyNest® answer these questions and more in this special charitable giving episode of the Catholic Money Mastermind podcast.

Show Notes: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/?p=4117&preview=true

Catholic Investing Series: Knights of Columbus | Thom Duffy

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Join us as we continue to discuss the topic of 'Values-Based Investing' specific to the Catholic Faith. For many practicing Catholic's today we were born into our faith or also known as 'cradle Catholics'. Many of us might be at a point in our financial and faith journey where we have a desire to align our assets with our faith. If this is the case for you, how do you know where your "magnetic north" lies? The secular world is ever evolving yet the truths of the Church remain constant. We can't align ourselves to a different "truth" when it comes to investing simply because we decide to turn a blind eye.

Show notes: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/?p=4094&preview=true

Catholic Investing Series: Eventide Funds | Jason Myhre

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Deb Meyer and Ben Martinek speak with Jason Myhre of Eventide Funds. Eventide Asset Management, LLC, is a Boston-based registered investment adviser* pursuing “investing that makes the world rejoice.”

Show notes:

https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/catholic-investing-series-jason-myhre-of-eventide-funds-podcast/

Is Classical Education the Answer For Our Kids?

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Dr. Luke Murray, headmaster at the new Chesterton Academy of St. Philip Neary, shares his vision for Classical Education in Kansas City.

Subscribe to The Reformed Financial Advisor Podcast: https://simplewealthkc.com/reformed-financial-advisor-podcast/

Interlude & Outro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6CJ96LGGP6w

Catholic Investing Series: Dana Investments | John Mueller

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Michael Acosta interviews John Mueller, Vice President at Dana Investments, on Dana's version of Catholic Moral Investing.

Show notes for this episode: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/catholic-investing-dana-investments/

The Finances of Education for Catholic Families

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Charlie Horonzy, Deb Meyer, and Andy Flattery discuss the finances of education for Catholic families.

Show notes for this episode: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/?p=4013&preview=true

Around the Horn - Zero Interest Trap, The Universal Destination of Goods

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Financial Planners Joe Ibarra and Andy Flattery discuss the zero interest rate trap and the teaching of the Universal Destination of Goods.

Show notes for this episode: https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/?p=3994&preview=true

Marriage & Money

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Deb Meyer and Tyler Hackenberg discuss finances in the context of marriage.

Show notes for this episode - https://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/?p=3968&preview=true

Talking Dave Ramsey

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0400

*Originally recorded 7/2020*

Catholic Financial Planners Ben Martinek and Andy Flattery discuss Dave Ramsey:

What we love about Dave
Where we disagree
Why most people should seek to graduate from "doing Dave Ramsey"

Show notes for this episode - http://www.catholicfinancialplanners.com/talking-dave-ramsey-podcast/

Around the Horn - Housing Prices, Vatican Investments, Retail Investing Boom

Wed, 26 May 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Around the horn episode with members of the Catholic Financial Planners Network. Topics discussed are -

Housing prices are skyrocketing

The Vatican’s investment choices

The retail investment boom

Show notes for this episode - https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/7

Is Wealth Accumulation Moral?

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Ben Martinek, Deb Meyer, and Robert Franer III discuss the morality (or lack thereof) wealth building.

Show notes for this episode - https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/6

How Should I Save/Invest For Short-Term Goals?

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode we discuss all the ways that people are using financial assets to save for short-term goals - cash, bonds, the stock market, and even crypto. In the end, financial planning is always to place to start.

Show notes for this episode - https://catholicfinancialplanners.com/5

Who is Budgeting For?

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Ben Martinek, Robert Franer, and Andy Flattery discuss the very foundation of personal finance - budgeting.

Show notes - http://catholicfinancialplanners.com/4

Attend the FREE Heroic Finance Summit on Saturday, 2/27/21 - https://bit.ly/3ubFGPt

Around the horn - The Bezos Divorce, Religion is "Cool" Again, Biden's Taxes

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 13:00:00 -0500

Andy Flattery, Deb Meyer, and Michael Acosta discuss the news of the day. Elon recently became the richest in the world. Joe Biden is pretty open about his Catholicism. Also, Biden will be taxing the rich.

Show notes - http://catholicfinancialplanners.com/3

Financial Steps to Take When Having a Child

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 12:00:00 -0500

Ben Martinek, Sean Mullaney, and Andy Flattery discuss financial steps to take when having a child.

Show notes - http://catholicfinancialplanners.com/2

Introducing Catholic Money Mastermind

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 11:00:00 -0500

Introducing Catholic Money Mastermind, the podcast that features conversation from CFP® Practitioners on the intersection of faith and finances. In this episode, Ben Martinek, Andy Flattery, and Sean Mullaney outline the idea for the podcast and the need for a Catholic voice in the financial planning space.

Find the show notes for this episode and get on email list at catholicfinancialplanners.com/1