Shows
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeFinancial Advisors and Financial Vultures - EP. 178In this episode of Ditch the Suits, Travis Maus is joined by Senior Wealth Manager, Jess Blake to unpack the real reasons some people achieve financial freedom—and why others stay stuck spinning their wheels. Spoiler: it’s not just about how much money you make.They dig into the mindset differences between those who thrive and those who stall out, the dangers of overthinking, and why having a “plan” isn’t enough if you’re not taking action. From risk management and estate planning to the hidden costs of comparison and clickbait, this episode is a wake-up call...2025-07-2930 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeHow To Achieve Financial Freedom - EP. 177In this episode, Travis Maus and Jess Blake pull back the curtain on what really separates those who crush their financial goals from those who stay stuck in the struggle. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about how much money you make.They dive into the power of mindset, why clarity in your financial plan is non-negotiable, and how taking small, consistent action beats big talk every time. You’ll also hear how fear, anxiety, and the trap of comparing yourself to others can quietly sabotage your progress—and what to do about it.If you’ve...2025-07-2229 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeHow To Achieve Financial Freedom - EP. 177In this episode, Travis Maus and Jess Blake pull back the curtain on what really separates those who crush their financial goals from those who stay stuck in the struggle. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about how much money you make.They dive into the power of mindset, why clarity in your financial plan is non-negotiable, and how taking small, consistent action beats big talk every time. You’ll also hear how fear, anxiety, and the trap of comparing yourself to others can quietly sabotage your progress—and what to do about it.If you’ve...2025-07-2229 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeMistakes That Could Cost You Financial Freedom - EP. 176In this episode of "Ditch the Suits," Travis Maus, CEO of S.E.E.D. Planning Group, and guest Jessica Blake, a Senior Wealth Manager, explore the concept of financial freedom beyond just accumulating wealth. They discuss common misconceptions, emphasizing that financial freedom is not merely about being rich but understanding and prioritizing one's financial situation. Jess shares insights on the importance of planning, owning your financial reality, and the steps to achieve long-term success. The conversation also touches on the role of financial advisors, the pitfalls of over-collecting financial products, and the significance of...2025-07-1530 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeMistakes That Could Cost You Financial Freedom - EP. 176In this episode of "Ditch the Suits," Travis Maus, CEO of S.E.E.D. Planning Group, and guest Jessica Blake, a Senior Wealth Manager, explore the concept of financial freedom beyond just accumulating wealth. They discuss common misconceptions, emphasizing that financial freedom is not merely about being rich but understanding and prioritizing one's financial situation. Jess shares insights on the importance of planning, owning your financial reality, and the steps to achieve long-term success. The conversation also touches on the role of financial advisors, the pitfalls of over-collecting financial products, and the significance of...2025-07-1530 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeDo Your Blindspots Steal Your Happiness? - EP. 173In this episode of Ditch the Suits, we're back with Matt Brassard, Head of Growth at Ground News, to continue the conversation about how your media diet could be making you more confused—and more stressed—than informed. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by doomsday headlines or wondered why every story you read feels slanted, this one's for you.We break down how Ground News works, why headlines manipulate behavior, and how algorithms are designed to keep you in a digital echo chamber. Matt pulls back the curtain on the mechanics of modern news media, revealing how th...2025-06-2439 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeDo Your Blindspots Steal Your Happiness? - EP. 173In this episode of Ditch the Suits, we're back with Matt Brassard, Head of Growth at Ground News, to continue the conversation about how your media diet could be making you more confused—and more stressed—than informed. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by doomsday headlines or wondered why every story you read feels slanted, this one's for you.We break down how Ground News works, why headlines manipulate behavior, and how algorithms are designed to keep you in a digital echo chamber. Matt pulls back the curtain on the mechanics of modern news media, revealing how th...2025-06-2439 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeHype or Real? How to Get Honest Financial News - EP. 172In this new two-part conversation, Travis welcomes Matt Brassard of Ground News to discuss the current state of news and the challenges of finding trustworthy information. Matt opens up about the role of Ground News as a news aggregation tool. Together, they explore the hyper-political media landscape, the importance of local news, and the impact of media bias on public perception. Matt shares insights from his journey in the news industry and the evolution of Ground News, emphasizing the need for transparency and understanding in news consumption._______________________________________Interested in Subscribing to Ground News...2025-06-1738 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeHype or Real? How to Get Honest Financial News - EP. 172In this new two-part conversation, Travis welcomes Matt Brassard of Ground News to discuss the current state of news and the challenges of finding trustworthy information. Matt opens up about the role of Ground News as a news aggregation tool. Together, they explore the hyper-political media landscape, the importance of local news, and the impact of media bias on public perception. Matt shares insights from his journey in the news industry and the evolution of Ground News, emphasizing the need for transparency and understanding in news consumption._______________________________________Interested in Subscribing to Ground News...2025-06-1738 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeTake Control of Your Stress, Your Career, Your Life - EP. 171In this follow-up episode of Ditch the Suits, Travis continues his conversation with Dr. Paul Gould, PhD, LICSW, founder of Kindred Spirits Counseling and Wellness. Together, they dig deeper into the emotional toll political uncertainty and federal job instability are having on workers—and what can be done about it.With tensions rising across political lines and anxiety driven by job insecurity, Dr. Gould helps us understand how emotionally charged environments, cognitive distortions, and toxic media cycles can compound stress. They explore the difference between stress and anxiety, the importance of recognizing when you're caught in unhealthy th...2025-06-1044 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeTake Control of Your Stress, Your Career, Your Life - EP. 171In this follow-up episode of Ditch the Suits, Travis continues his conversation with Dr. Paul Gould, PhD, LICSW, founder of Kindred Spirits Counseling and Wellness. Together, they dig deeper into the emotional toll political uncertainty and federal job instability are having on workers—and what can be done about it.With tensions rising across political lines and anxiety driven by job insecurity, Dr. Gould helps us understand how emotionally charged environments, cognitive distortions, and toxic media cycles can compound stress. They explore the difference between stress and anxiety, the importance of recognizing when you're caught in unhealthy th...2025-06-1044 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your Life3 Million Stressed Out Federal Employees - EP. 170In this episode of Ditch the Suits, host Travis Maus sits down with Dr. Paul Gould, PhD, LICSW, a licensed clinical social worker and expert in anxiety and trauma, to unpack the mounting stress experienced by federal employees amid sudden funding cuts and workforce changes.With nearly 35% of all U.S. jobs tied in some way to federal funding, these shifts are rippling across the economy—impacting individuals, families, and financial futures. Travis and Dr. Gould dive into the differences between stress, anxiety, and trauma, and explore the real emotional toll these changes are taking on people. Th...2025-06-0346 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your Life3 Million Stressed Out Federal Employees - EP. 170In this episode of Ditch the Suits, host Travis Maus sits down with Dr. Paul Gould, PhD, LICSW, a licensed clinical social worker and expert in anxiety and trauma, to unpack the mounting stress experienced by federal employees amid sudden funding cuts and workforce changes.With nearly 35% of all U.S. jobs tied in some way to federal funding, these shifts are rippling across the economy—impacting individuals, families, and financial futures. Travis and Dr. Gould dive into the differences between stress, anxiety, and trauma, and explore the real emotional toll these changes are taking on people. Th...2025-06-0346 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeTariffs, Egg Prices, and Your Financial Future - EP. 169In this episode, Travis and Steve delve into the complexities of tariffs, egg prices, and the broader implications for financial futures. They challenge common narratives surrounding these topics, emphasizing the importance of understanding the underlying factors affecting prices and regulations. The conversation highlights the role of supply issues, regulatory policies, and the misconceptions surrounding tariffs, ultimately advocating for a more informed perspective on economic issues. One key is Travis stating, "Awareness of the media agendas is essential for clarity and olitical conversations should be rooted in intelligence, not vitriol."They explore how tariffs...2025-05-2750 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeTariffs, Egg Prices, and Your Financial Future - EP. 169In this episode, Travis and Steve delve into the complexities of tariffs, egg prices, and the broader implications for financial futures. They challenge common narratives surrounding these topics, emphasizing the importance of understanding the underlying factors affecting prices and regulations. The conversation highlights the role of supply issues, regulatory policies, and the misconceptions surrounding tariffs, ultimately advocating for a more informed perspective on economic issues. One key is Travis stating, "Awareness of the media agendas is essential for clarity and olitical conversations should be rooted in intelligence, not vitriol."They explore how tariffs...2025-05-2750 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeMarket Crashes. Now What? - EP. 168In this episode, Travis and Steve discuss how to navigate market volatility, emphasizing the importance of understanding market corrections and crashes. They explore strategies for profiting during downturns, including Roth conversions and identifying investment opportunities. The conversation highlights the wisdom of Warren Buffett, encouraging listeners to view market fluctuations as "opportunities rather than threats."Key TakeawaysMarket volatility can be leveraged for profit.Understanding the difference between market corrections and crashes is crucial.Market resets can create buying opportunities.Roth conversions during market downturns can maximize tax benefits.Investors should focus on the value...2025-05-2024 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeMarket Crashes. Now What? - EP. 168In this episode, Travis and Steve discuss how to navigate market volatility, emphasizing the importance of understanding market corrections and crashes. They explore strategies for profiting during downturns, including Roth conversions and identifying investment opportunities. The conversation highlights the wisdom of Warren Buffett, encouraging listeners to view market fluctuations as "opportunities rather than threats."Key TakeawaysMarket volatility can be leveraged for profit.Understanding the difference between market corrections and crashes is crucial.Market resets can create buying opportunities.Roth conversions during market downturns can maximize tax benefits.Investors should focus on the value...2025-05-2024 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your Life4 Common Tax Reduction Mistakes - EP. 167In this episode, Travis and Steve delve into the complexities of taxation, focusing on common mistakes individuals make regarding tax reduction strategies. They discuss the difference between tax loopholes and traps, the concept of tax loss harvesting, and the risks associated with market timing. The conversation also covers the implications of deferring income taxes, the challenges of capital gains, and the strategic use of the zero percent tax bracket. Together, Travis and Steve emphasize the importance of understanding tax rules to avoid costly mistakes and maximize financial outcomes.TakeawaysUnderstanding the difference between tax...2025-05-1337 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your Life4 Common Tax Reduction Mistakes - EP. 167In this episode, Travis and Steve delve into the complexities of taxation, focusing on common mistakes individuals make regarding tax reduction strategies. They discuss the difference between tax loopholes and traps, the concept of tax loss harvesting, and the risks associated with market timing. The conversation also covers the implications of deferring income taxes, the challenges of capital gains, and the strategic use of the zero percent tax bracket. Together, Travis and Steve emphasize the importance of understanding tax rules to avoid costly mistakes and maximize financial outcomes.TakeawaysUnderstanding the difference between tax...2025-05-1337 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeAn Inside Look at Financial Planning at S.E.E.D. Planning Group - EP. 166We're diving deep into the world of financial planning with our awesome guest, Jeff Chase! Jeff is Vice President of Financial Planning and a Senior Wealth Manager at S.E.E.D. Planning Group.This episode shines a spotlight on the critical importance of choosing not just a financial planner, but the right firm that supports them. We discuss how organizations can make or break your financial journey, focusing on the concept of "bench strength"—essentially, what happens when your go-to planner is unavailable or out of the office. Plus, we’ll explore the evolution of f...2025-05-0629 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeAn Inside Look at Financial Planning at S.E.E.D. Planning Group - EP. 166We're diving deep into the world of financial planning with our awesome guest, Jeff Chase! Jeff is Vice President of Financial Planning and a Senior Wealth Manager at S.E.E.D. Planning Group.This episode shines a spotlight on the critical importance of choosing not just a financial planner, but the right firm that supports them. We discuss how organizations can make or break your financial journey, focusing on the concept of "bench strength"—essentially, what happens when your go-to planner is unavailable or out of the office. Plus, we’ll explore the evolution of f...2025-05-0629 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeThe Business of Financial Planning - EP. 165Today, we're diving deep into the nitty-gritty of what makes a financial planner the "real deal." Our special series guest, Jeff Chase, VP of Financial Planning and Senior Wealth Manager at S.E.E.D. Planning Group is back with us, and together we're about to drop some insights that’ll help you see through all the shiny sales pitches out there. We’re breaking down the art of financial planning and why it’s not just about throwing money at investments and calling it a day. Instead, it’s about crafting a tailored strategy that considers everythi...2025-04-2933 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeThe Business of Financial Planning - EP. 165Today, we're diving deep into the nitty-gritty of what makes a financial planner the "real deal." Our special series guest, Jeff Chase, VP of Financial Planning and Senior Wealth Manager at S.E.E.D. Planning Group is back with us, and together we're about to drop some insights that’ll help you see through all the shiny sales pitches out there. We’re breaking down the art of financial planning and why it’s not just about throwing money at investments and calling it a day. Instead, it’s about crafting a tailored strategy that considers everythi...2025-04-2933 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeChange is Needed in the Financial Industry - EP. 164Our special guest, Jeff Chase, Senior Vice President of Financial Planning at S.E.E.D. Planning Group, is back! In this episode, we're diving deep into financial planning and exposing financial advisors and professionals who might be more about sales than sound advice.We'll break down how to distinguish experienced, qualified financial planners from those who are just in it for the commission—because when it comes to your financial future, you deserve a true professional, not just a salesperson.We discuss how to find someone who’s not only got your back but also...2025-04-2231 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeChange is Needed in the Financial Industry - EP. 164Our special guest, Jeff Chase, Senior Vice President of Financial Planning at S.E.E.D. Planning Group, is back! In this episode, we're diving deep into financial planning and exposing financial advisors and professionals who might be more about sales than sound advice.We'll break down how to distinguish experienced, qualified financial planners from those who are just in it for the commission—because when it comes to your financial future, you deserve a true professional, not just a salesperson.We discuss how to find someone who’s not only got your back but also...2025-04-2231 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeGetting to Know Jeff Chase Sr VP, Financial Planning - EP. 163Navigating the world of financial advising can feel like wandering through a maze blindfolded. Not every financial advisor is created equal—some have the credentials and expertise, while others just have the title. So, how can you tell the difference?In this brand-new four-part series, we’re joined by Jeff Chase, Senior Vice President of Financial Planning at S.E.E.D. Planning Group. Together, we're pulling back the curtain on the financial advising industry and trying to help you better identify and spot the real deal when it comes to working with a financial professional. To...2025-04-1525 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeGetting to Know Jeff Chase Sr VP, Financial Planning - EP. 163Navigating the world of financial advising can feel like wandering through a maze blindfolded. Not every financial advisor is created equal—some have the credentials and expertise, while others just have the title. So, how can you tell the difference?In this brand-new four-part series, we’re joined by Jeff Chase, Senior Vice President of Financial Planning at S.E.E.D. Planning Group. Together, we're pulling back the curtain on the financial advising industry and trying to help you better identify and spot the real deal when it comes to working with a financial professional. To...2025-04-1525 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeAre the Markets Rigged? - EP. 162Have you ever felt like the stock market is rigged against you? Well, you’re not alone in that sentiment, but we’re here to pull back the curtain and show you that it’s all about understanding the rules of the game.Throughout the episode, we argue that many investors are distracted by the flashy allure of 'instant wealth' while ignoring the real strategies that could lead to sustainable success. We illustrate how knowledge and strategy can turn the tables. The conversation weaves through the emotional rollercoaster of investing, debunking the idea that markets are in...2025-04-0840 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeAre the Markets Rigged? - EP. 162Have you ever felt like the stock market is rigged against you? Well, you’re not alone in that sentiment, but we’re here to pull back the curtain and show you that it’s all about understanding the rules of the game.Throughout the episode, we argue that many investors are distracted by the flashy allure of 'instant wealth' while ignoring the real strategies that could lead to sustainable success. We illustrate how knowledge and strategy can turn the tables. The conversation weaves through the emotional rollercoaster of investing, debunking the idea that markets are in...2025-04-0840 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeA Guide to Buying Investments - EP. 161Ever feel like the investment world is just one big emotional rollercoaster? Well, you’re not alone! We’re diving into the nitty-gritty of why the average investor is at a serious disadvantage and how to flip the script. We kick things off by addressing the emotional rollercoaster that is the stock market, likening it to an emotional teenager throwing tantrums over price fluctuations. It’s all about understanding that while the market might be throwing a fit, we don’t have to join the chaos. We dive deep into the common pitfalls that trap everyday investors, highligh...2025-04-0135 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeA Guide to Buying Investments - EP. 161Ever feel like the investment world is just one big emotional rollercoaster? Well, you’re not alone! We’re diving into the nitty-gritty of why the average investor is at a serious disadvantage and how to flip the script. We kick things off by addressing the emotional rollercoaster that is the stock market, likening it to an emotional teenager throwing tantrums over price fluctuations. It’s all about understanding that while the market might be throwing a fit, we don’t have to join the chaos. We dive deep into the common pitfalls that trap everyday investors, highligh...2025-04-0135 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeWhy Investing is Boring - EP. 160Would you like your investments to have more good days than bad days? Are you tired of logging in and seeing your investment account balances dropping? Why does the stock market feel like an emotional teenager throwing tantrums and making drama? Well, that's what we're diving into today!We’re breaking down how the ups and downs of your investments mirror the wild mood swings of adolescence—think mood swings but with dollar signs. Between the media's sensational headlines and our natural urge to know “why,” we often find ourselves spiraling into panic mode. We’re here to...2025-03-2535 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeWhy Investing is Boring - EP. 160Would you like your investments to have more good days than bad days? Are you tired of logging in and seeing your investment account balances dropping? Why does the stock market feel like an emotional teenager throwing tantrums and making drama? Well, that's what we're diving into today!We’re breaking down how the ups and downs of your investments mirror the wild mood swings of adolescence—think mood swings but with dollar signs. Between the media's sensational headlines and our natural urge to know “why,” we often find ourselves spiraling into panic mode. We’re here to...2025-03-2535 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeWhat Is The Estate Attorney's Job - EP. 159This episode dives into why teaming up with a competent attorney is essential for your financial well-being, especially when it comes to estate planning. We’ve got our go-to legal expert, Kristen Luce, Partner at Coughlin and Gerhart LLP, back in studio to share how the right attorney can make all the difference in ensuring your assets are handled according to your wishes. We chat about the importance of communication, transparency, and doing your homework when choosing legal professionals—because let’s be honest, nobody wants to leave their loved ones tangled in a legal mess. Ask those...2025-03-1847 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeWhat Is The Estate Attorney's Job - EP. 159This episode dives into why teaming up with a competent attorney is essential for your financial well-being, especially when it comes to estate planning. We’ve got our go-to legal expert, Kristen Luce, Partner at Coughlin and Gerhart LLP, back in studio to share how the right attorney can make all the difference in ensuring your assets are handled according to your wishes. We chat about the importance of communication, transparency, and doing your homework when choosing legal professionals—because let’s be honest, nobody wants to leave their loved ones tangled in a legal mess. Ask those...2025-03-1847 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your Life$17.5 Million for Potentially Misleading Statements about ESG Investing - EP. 157We’re diving deep into the world of trust (or lack thereof) in the financial services industry! This episode is all about how trust in your financial advisor should be more than just a warm fuzzy feeling; it needs to be backed by proactive planning and accountability. We'll break down two compelling cases: one involving a major investment firm hit with a $17.5 million civil penalty for allegedly making misleading statements about its ESG-focused investments, and another where an advisor orchestrated a Ponzi scheme to deceive clients.📢 We Want Your Input! Take our quick two-question survey here...2025-03-0431 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your Life$17.5 Million for Potentially Misleading Statements about ESG Investing - EP. 157We’re diving deep into the world of trust (or lack thereof) in the financial services industry! This episode is all about how trust in your financial advisor should be more than just a warm fuzzy feeling; it needs to be backed by proactive planning and accountability. We'll break down two compelling cases: one involving a major investment firm hit with a $17.5 million civil penalty for allegedly making misleading statements about its ESG-focused investments, and another where an advisor orchestrated a Ponzi scheme to deceive clients.📢 We Want Your Input! Take our quick two-question survey here...2025-03-0431 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeTop Quality in a Financial Advisor – Trust or Performance? - EP. 156In this special episode of Ditch the Suits, Travis and Steve break down the results of a recent survey that asked 1,000 investors working with financial advisors: What matters more—trust or performance?Should it be just one thing or a combination? Don’t you deserve to work with someone who you can both trust not to rip you off and expect performance from? Join us as we challenge the status quo and discuss why clients should raise their expectations.Key takeaways from the survey:🔹 Why 72% of investors prioritize trust over performance🔹 How proact...2025-02-2540 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeTop Quality in a Financial Advisor – Trust or Performance? - EP. 156In this special episode of Ditch the Suits, Travis and Steve break down the results of a recent survey that asked 1,000 investors working with financial advisors: What matters more—trust or performance?Should it be just one thing or a combination? Don’t you deserve to work with someone who you can both trust not to rip you off and expect performance from? Join us as we challenge the status quo and discuss why clients should raise their expectations.Key takeaways from the survey:🔹 Why 72% of investors prioritize trust over performance🔹 How proact...2025-02-2540 min
Ditch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeWhat Are Your Estate Planning Options - EP. 155Jess Blake, Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor and Senior Wealth Manager at S.E.E.D. Planning Group returns for the last episode in this series to help clarify the common misconception that estate planning is only necessary for the wealthy or elderly. We engage in a lively debate, dispelling these myths and emphasizing that anyone over 18 with any form of asset should consider an estate plan. The discussion highlights the critical role of power of attorney documents and how vital they are, especially when the unthinkable happens. Jess recounts real-life situations where families were...2025-02-1835 minDitch the Suits - Your Money, Your LifeWhat Are Your Estate Planning Options - EP. 155Jess Blake, Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor and Senior Wealth Manager at S.E.E.D. Planning Group returns for the last episode in this series to help clarify the common misconception that estate planning is only necessary for the wealthy or elderly. We engage in a lively debate, dispelling these myths and emphasizing that anyone over 18 with any form of asset should consider an estate plan. The discussion highlights the critical role of power of attorney documents and how vital they are, especially when the unthinkable happens. Jess recounts real-life situations where families were...2025-02-1835 min