Shows
Optimized Advisor PodcastHoliday Spirits: A World Tour of Drinks, Snacks & StoriesIn this festive holiday special of The Optimized Advisor Podcast, host Scott Heinila is joined by his wife Melissa Heinila, Kelly Hodges (Executive Assistant at Optimized Insurance Planning), and Nick Bernatowicz (Planning Director at Optimized Insurance Planning) for a global tasting adventure filled with flavor, laughter, and holiday cheer.The team samples holiday drinks and snacks from around the world, reacting to surprising flavors, sharing personal favorites, and debating which traditions deserve a spot in future celebrations. Between sips, the conversation turns warm and nostalgic as each guest reflects on beloved holiday traditions, memorable family moments, and...
2025-12-1256 minOptimized Advisor PodcastMastering the Art of Seminars: Unlocking Success with Travis IvanoffScott welcomed Travis Ivanoff to the studio along with Nick Bernatowicz for a discussion on seminar marketing and Ivanoff Advisors. Travis has been licensed in the insurance industry for over 16 years. Following in his father’s footsteps, Travis grew up in the retirement planning industry learning his father's best practices. These years proved to him the importance of client relationships.Travis believes in taking the time to make sure his clients understand the investment subjects before them and which options provide the best fit for their retirement plan. His investment philosophy stresses that it’s not w...
2025-02-2855 minOptimized Advisor PodcastOptimizing Your Financial Fitness: The Intersection of Wealth and Wellness with Nick BernatowiczScott welcomed Nick Bernatowicz in studio to discuss finances, annuities, and wellness. Nick started his insurance career in 2015, dedicating his time to assisting insurance and Financial Advisors and their Clients within the three facets of Protective Portfolio Planning – annuities, life insurance, and long-term care insurance. Nick took his passion for coaching and transitioned it from the fitness world to the insurance and financial world, quickly becoming a resource for advisors throughout the country.Nick is currently an Insurance Planning Director at Optimized Insurance Planning, a wholesale insurance planning and marketing organization. Over the 8+ years of experience in...
2025-01-1044 minOptimized Advisor PodcastOptimizing Long-Term Care: Insights for Financial Advisors and Affluent Clients with Brian OttScott welcomed Brian Ott to the studio along with Nick Bernatowicz to discuss the importance and intricacies of long-term care (LTC) planning. Brian Ott, RICP, CLTC, is founder and president of 525 Advisors LLC, an independent insurance agency that specializes in asset-based long-term care insurance planning. He is also the host of Long-Term Care Radio which is aired in multiple markets and produced as a weekly podcast. Brian has been recognized nationally as a top producer and continues to build his practice through marketing focused on education.In this episode you’ll learn the following: Spec...
2024-06-2134 minOptimized Advisor PodcastHow to Optimize Your Health through Biohacking with Ryan Dietrich and Nick BernatowiczFor the last episode of 2022, Scott was joined in the studio by Nick Bernatowicz and Ryan Dietrich, Founder, Fitness Trainer, and Biohacking Expert at Reaching Dreams LLC to discuss health optimization. In this episode you will learn the following:What is biohacking and how it can help you optimize your healthKick off your 2023 health and wellness resolutions with an easy-to-follow toolkitHow to utilize cold-therapy, heat-therapy, and meditation to help you handle stress in everyday lifeLearn how to join Ryan’s Healthy in 30 Program to optimize your overall health and wellness routineConnect with Scott on Lin...
2022-12-1648 minOptimized Advisor PodcastWhat You Need to Know to Sell More Annuities in 2023, with Nick Bernatowicz, Producers Choice NetworkScott was joined in the studio by Nick Bernatowicz, Senior Sales Consultant at Producers Choice Network to discuss what you need to know to increase your Annuity sales in 2023.In this episode, you will learn the following: How the Fed rates correlate to annuities and how to use that to increase sales.From the Field: The best annuity products on the market today!Insurance companies are growing and changing, and how that affects you, the producer.Listen to their previous annuity update episode here: Ep. 56 - Annuities: Ken Fisher “hates them”…. should you? hereConnect with Sco...
2022-12-0926 minOptimized Advisor PodcastThe Zandbergen Report’s 5th Annual Holiday Wine PairingScott Heinila and Nick Bernatowicz virtually joined fellow podcast host and strategic partner, Bart Zandbergen in the podcast studio by co-host Letitia Berbaum, Paula Steurer of Sterling Public Relations for the 5th Annual Holiday Wine Pairing Podcast alongside studio engineer Danielle Ramchandani. This year’s line-up of wines featured some that are well known, some that are hidden gems, and some that were being tried by the podcast crew for the very first time. Led by Bart’s sommelier expertise, the cast discusses what pairings are best tailored with certain dishes alongside some unexpected pairings to consider. Cheers to the...
2022-11-181h 31
The Zandbergen ReportThe Zandbergen Report’s 5th Annual Holiday Wine Pairing PodcastHost Bart Zandbergen was joined in the podcast studio by co-host Letitia Berbaum, Paula Steurer of Sterling Public Relations, with Scott Heinila and Nick Bernatowicz of Producers Choice Network joining remotely for the 5th Annual Holiday Wine Pairing Podcast alongside studio engineer Danielle Ramchandani. This year’s line-up of wines featured some that are well-known, some that are hidden gems, and some that were being tried by the podcast crew for the very first time. Led by Bart’s sommelier expertise, the cast discusses what pairings are best tailored with certain dishes alongside some unexpected pairings to consider. Cheers to t...
2022-11-161h 32Optimized Advisor PodcastSpringtime Flex with Bart Zandbergen and Nick BernatowiczScott and Bart Zandbergen, CFP and host of the Zandbergen Report Podcast, co-hosted this episode with Nick Bernatowicz and discussed all things fitness. They talked about fitness, motivation, nutrition, proper supplements and creating the right workout routine to meet your optimal results.Connect with Scott on LinkedInConnect with Bart on LinkedInConnect with Nick on LinkedInFor more on The Optimized Advisor Podcast click here For more on The Zanbergen Group click hereFollow us on LinkedInFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook**
2022-04-0131 minOptimized Advisor PodcastAnnuities: Ken Fisher “hates them”…. should you?Scott and Nick Bernatowicz sit down in studio to discuss annuities in today’s market. They break down the uses of annuities for growth and income. They talk about the history of annuities and how they fit into an investment portfolio. They also touch on the uses as a solution for long-term care planning.Connect with Scott on LinkedInConnect with Nick on LinkedInFor more on The Optimized Advisor Podcast click here For more on Producers Choice Network click hereWant to learn more and discuss annuities and other insurance solu...
2022-03-1739 minOptimized Advisor PodcastZandbergen Report’s 4th Annual Holiday Wine PairingHost Bart Zandbergen was joined in the studio by Scott Heinila, Nick Bernatowicz, and Danielle Ramchandani of Optimized Advisor and Paula Steurer of Sterling Public Relations for the 4th annual holiday wine pairing podcast. A certified sommelier, Bart selected 9 wines from his well-curated wine cellar to enjoy with his guests. Mixing it up this year, Bart chose 4 distinct white wines, 3 red wines, a rose, and a champagne to discuss pairing options for, while adding in some wine facts to help listeners elevate their wine knowledge. The 2021 edition of this highly anticipated podcast is certainly memorable and includes answers to p...
2021-11-191h 12
The Zandbergen ReportBart Zandbergen Hosts 4th Annual Holiday Wine Pairing PodcastHost Bart Zandbergen was joined in the studio by Scott Heinila and Nick Bernatowicz of Producers Choice Network and Paula Steurer of Sterling Public Relations for the 4th annual holiday wine pairing podcast. A certified sommelier, Bart selected 9 wines from his well-curated wine cellar to enjoy with his guests. Mixing it up this year, Bart chose 4 distinct white wines, 3 red wines, a rose, and a champagne to discuss pairing options for, while adding in some wine facts to help listeners elevate their wine knowledge. The 2021 edition of this highly anticipated podcast is certainly memorable and includes answers to pairing...
2021-11-181h 12Optimized Advisor PodcastLearn From A Managing Director: Andrew Kuo, WISScott invited Andrew Kuo and Nick Bernatowicz in studio to discuss Andrew’s journey directly out of college into working for a broker dealer firm and to becoming Managing Director of Western International Securities. They discuss how obtaining designations helped accelerate Andrew along in his career and relationship building. Andrew shares how he optimizes and leverages his time to prioritize and oversee many operational responsibilities. Connect with Scott on LinkedInConnect with Andrew on LinkedInConnect with Nick on LinkedInFor more on The Optimized Advisor Podcast click here For more on WIS c...
2021-11-0458 minOptimized Advisor PodcastLife Insurance Awareness MonthSeptember is Life Insurance Awareness Month! It’s a great time for financial advisors and insurance professionals to have the very necessary life insurance conversation with clients. In this episode, Scott and Nick Bernatowicz sit down to discuss and share insights on the topic of life insurance. They break down the different types of life insurance, the benefits of having coverage, and how to be an advocate for insurance. Connect with Scott on LinkedInConnect with Nick on LinkedInFor more on The Optimized Advisor Podcast click here For more on Producers Choice Netwo...
2021-09-1037 min
The Zandbergen ReportBart Zandbergen Talks with Foley Family WinesHost Bart Zandbergen was joined in the studio by Scott Heinila and Nick Bernatowicz of Producers Choice Network and Devon Ulrich of Foley Family Wines. During this episode, Devon shares details of the company’s wine portfolio with listeners as the hosts taste specific varietals for themselves. She also shares with listeners the impact that the pandemic has had on the wine industry and what changes she thinks are here to stay as we move through lockdown into a fully reopened state.
In this episode learn:
-What Cremant is, and how it is made
-Why Or...
2021-06-241h 02Optimized Advisor PodcastNational Wine Day Celebration with Foley Family WinesScott invited Devon Loquet Ulrich from Foley Family Wines along with Bart Zandbergen and Nick Bernatowicz in studio to celebrate National Wine Day (5/25). Devon informed the group of the Foley Food and Wine Society, the wineries, the restaurants, how to purchase the wines, and the different membership options. Devon also shared about her role within the company and how the industry pivoted during the pandemic from partnering with restaurants, retailers, and the entire wine making supply chain. Throughout the conversation they enjoyed select wines from the Foley Family portfolio.Connect with Scott on LinkedInConnect with...
2021-06-111h 00Optimized Advisor PodcastSummer Bods and Summer WODs with Nick BernatowiczScott invited Nick back in studio to discuss all things fitness and nutrition, a Part 2 of Ep. 001. Scott and Nick motivate you to get your body in shape for the summer and stay consistent with your workouts while traveling. They dive into how they keep up with their workouts on vacation, share easy-to-follow different ways to get workouts in using what you have at your disposal. They also discuss how nutrition places a key role in achieving your fitness goals and how to make good choices while traveling. Connect with Scott on LinkedInConnect with Nick o...
2021-05-2733 minOptimized Advisor PodcastThis Is A Bourbon For Life with Jake Ireland, Off Hours SpiritsScott Heinila, Jake Ireland, Nick Bernatowicz, and Ryan Letchford sat down to savor some Off Hours. They discussed how Jake got into the bourbon industry, how he launched his business during the height of the pandemic. A great tasting, easy drinking Bourbon Whiskey made for the moments in between and bucking the trend to be fresh, innovative and conversational. Connect with Scott on LinkedInConnect with Jake on LinkedInFor more on Off Hours and to place an order click hereFollow Off Hours on InstagramFollow Jake on InstagramF...
2021-04-021h 33Optimized Advisor PodcastBonus Episode: Retirement Income Planning – What You Need to Know in 2021 with The Zandbergen ReportOptimized Advisor Podcast host, Scott Heinila, welcomed dear friend and fellow podcast host, Bart Zandbergen of The Zandbergen Report Podcast in studio with Nick Bernatowicz to talk about annuities and retirement planning on The Zandbergen Report. During this episode, Bart, Scott, and Nick discuss retirement income and why it is essential. Studies show that people spend more time each year planning a one week vacation than they do planning their retirement. This episode poses good food for thought that may have listeners choosing to flip the script and start investing in proper planning.In this episode learn:
2021-03-1636 min
The Zandbergen ReportRetirement Income Planning – What You Need to Know in 2021Host Bart Zandbergen was joined in the studio Scott Heinila and Nick Bernatowicz of Producers Choice Network. The duo are strategic partners of The Zandbergen Group. During this episode, Bart and his esteemed guests discuss retirement income and why it is essential. Studies show that people spend more time each year planning a one week vacation than they do planning their retirement. This episode poses good food for thought that may have listeners choosing to flip the script and start investing in proper planning
In this episode learn:
- Why financial independence requires having a...
2021-03-0937 minOptimized Advisor PodcastThe Single Largest Unfunded Risk Facing RetireesOptimized Advisor Podcast host, Scott Heinila, sat down with Nick Bernatowicz, CLTC®, RICP® - Senior Sales Consultant with Producers Choice Network and Brad Shepard, CLTC® Regional Sales Director with One America. They are experts in Long-Term Care Planning with a combined 25+ years of experience. During this episode they discuss the critically important topic of planning for extended health care. Connect with Scott on LinkedInConnect with Nick on LinkedInConnect with Brad on LinkedInFor more on the Optimized Advisor Podcast click hereFollow us on LinkedInFollow us on Inst...
2020-12-2335 min
Optimized Advisor PodcastFitness + Nutrition Optimized: Essentials For A Healthy LifestyleOptimized Advisor Podcast host, Scott Heinila, sat down with Nick Bernatowicz to discuss fitness and nutrition in a busy world. Nick comes with an extensive background in Fitness and Kinesiology. He owned and operated multiple fitness facilities and holds many credentials in fitness training. During their conversation, they dive into different forms of physical training as well as today's top nutritional plans. With so many choices and with time being scarce they identify a path to optimizing your fitness and nutritional balance. Connect with Scott on LinkedInConnect with Nick on LinkedInFor more o...
2020-12-141h 08
The Zandbergen ReportWhy Long Term Care Makes Dollars and SenseHost Letitia Berbaum was joined in the virtual studio by Nick Bernatowicz of Producers Choice Network. In this episode, the duo discuss Long Term Care – myths, misconceptions and why it is critical to have a plan in place. Nick is recognized as an expert in Long Term Care planning, portfolio distribution and protection strategies, as well as legacy planning. He is passionate about partnering directly with Financial Professionals, and providing them with back office support to help plan, protect and enhance their practices. Nick is an active member of the Financial Planning Association (FPA). He maintains the RICP (Retirement In...
2020-09-0235 min