Episode Summary:
In this powerful episode, Paul Ward sits down with Arkady Milgram, a former Soviet citizen who risked everything to pursue freedom in America. Arkady shares his journey from growing up under communist rule to becoming a successful financial planner in California. Along the way, he reflects on the emotional moments of leaving his homeland, building a new life from scratch, and reuniting his family. His story is a heartfelt reminder that freedom comes at a cost—and with limitless opportunity.
⏱️ Timestamps + Topics
00:05 – Welcome from Paul Paul introduces Arkady Milgram, a Russian immigrant who built a life and career in America.
00:51 – Meet Arkady Milgram Arkady shares his gratitude and excitement to tell his story.
01:22 – Life in the Soviet Union Arkady describes his childhood under communist propaganda and his early curiosity about the West.
02:59 – Cracks in the Narrative Discover how an American magazine article helped shift Arkady’s understanding of the U.S.
05:01 – The Dream of Leaving Learn how Arkady used Israel’s “family reunification” program as a legal route to escape.
07:40 – The First Step to Freedom Arkady recalls the emotional moment stepping off the plane in Vienna—and realizing he was free.
09:14 – Stateless in Italy He explains the three-month transition in Rome, applying for refugee status in the U.S.
11:32 – Arriving in Los Angeles With support from distant relatives and Jewish organizations, Arkady begins his new life in LA.
13:41 – His First Job in America From unloading furniture in Hollywood to biochemistry work, Arkady dives into American work life.
15:35 – From Biochemistry to Business Why Arkady transitioned from lab work to entrepreneurship—and how he started a travel agency.
17:34 – Discovering Financial Planning Arkady finds his true calling helping others navigate personal finance through education.
20:25 – How to Reach Arkady He shares his phone number and open-door policy for financial conversations—no pressure, just help.
23:28 – Reuniting with Family Hear the emotional story of how he brought his parents and extended family to the U.S.
26:12 – A Love Letter to America Arkady closes with powerful reflections on freedom, family, and what it means to be American.
📞 Contact Arkady Milgram:
www.milgramfinancial.com
Phone: (818) 919-2461 Calls only — texting uses a different number due to compliance.
Email: AMilgram@MilgramFinancial.com 2801 Townsgate Road Suite 320, Westlake Village, CA 91361
👉Contact Paul Ward:
p. 805-479-5004
e. paul@homeandranchteam.com
www.homeandranchteam.com
📢 Thank You to Our Sponsor: Opus Escrow — making this episode possible.
**Securities and investment advisory services offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. Milgram Financial and Insurance Services, LLC is not a subsidiary or affiliate of MML Investors Services, LLC, or its affiliated companies. 790 E Colorado Blvd, Ste 710, Pasadena, CA 91101, (626) 639-1900 CRN202808-9197265. **
