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Bankruptcy doesn't necessarily mean the end of your financial story. For some people, it can be an opportunity to reset, address overwhelming debt, and begin rebuilding. In this episode, host Marc Bautis is joined by Barry Levine, a bankruptcy attorney with nearly 46 years of experience working with individuals and small business owners facing financial challenges. Drawing on his experience, Barry explains how bankruptcy works, what people often misunderstand about it, and what rebuilding can look like after filing. In this episode, you will learn: How bankruptcy may provide relief from certain collection efforts and financial pressures.The differences between protected and unprotected assets in bankruptcy.Why reaffirming a mortgage or car loan deserves careful consideration.How bankruptcy can affect credit reports and future borrowing opportunities.And more!Tune in to explore how bankruptcy may fit into a broader strategy for overcoming financial setbacks and moving forward. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | www.levineslaw.com | [email protected] | Personal Bankruptcy: Through the Looking Glass | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call | Review Bautis Financial | Review The Agent of Wealth Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send us a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

Taxes can have a significant impact on long-term wealth, especially as income and financial complexity increase. Proactive planning can help identify opportunities to preserve more of what you earn. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, co-host John Williams is joined by Chris Miller, Founder and CEO of One Atlanta Tax Solutions, to discuss the difference between reactive tax preparation and proactive tax planning. Chris explains how tax planning can work alongside a client’s existing CPA and financial advisor, how strategies are evaluated for legality and audit defense, and why understanding a client’s full financial picture is essential to creating an effective tax strategy. In this episode, you will learn: The difference between tax preparation and proactive tax planning.Signs you may be missing tax-planning opportunities.How different types of income can require different tax strategies.What to consider when evaluating tax strategies and audit risk.Why tax savings can create greater financial flexibility.And more!Tune in for a conversation about how proactive tax planning can help high earners and business owners identify opportunities before the tax year is over — and potentially put more cash back to work toward their broader financial goals. Resources:  Episode Transcript & Blog | One Atlanta Tax Solutions: (470) 873-9940 | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send us a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

A life insurance policy is supposed to provide financial protection when a loved one dies. But what happens when the insurance company delays, denies, or disputes the claim? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, co-host John Williams is joined by Stephanie Prestridge, an attorney at Life Claim who focuses on helping families navigate life insurance claims that have been denied, delayed, or disputed after the death of a loved one. In this episode, you will learn: How the life insurance claims process typically works after someone passes away.How the two-year contestability period can affect a claim and potentially lead to delays or denials.Common mistakes people make when completing a life insurance application and how misunderstandings or inaccurate information can create problems later.Why it’s important to review beneficiary designations regularly and make sure your family knows about your life insurance policies.How beneficiary disputes can arise and what can happen when someone challenges a designated beneficiary.What to do if a life insurance claim is denied or delayed, including when it may be time to seek legal counsel.And more!Tune in for an important conversation about the potential challenges surrounding life insurance claims — and practical steps you can take now to help protect your family and the benefits you intended them to receive. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | lifeclaim.com: (888) 615-3270 | Follow Stephanie Prestridge on LinkedIn | Follow lifeclaimwins on Facebook & Instagram | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send us a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Ryan George, founder of Part ABC, a national Medicare brokerage. Ryan shares why he believes Medicare should be taught, not sold, and breaks down some of the most important decisions individuals face as they approach age 65.  From understanding enrollment timelines and comparing Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans to navigating prescription drug coverage and planning for retirement before Medicare eligibility, Ryan provides practical insights to help listeners better understand their options. In this episode, you will learn: Why Medicare decisions should be based on your individual health, finances, location and personal preferences — not someone else's experience.How the Initial Enrollment Period works and why understanding key deadlines is critical to avoiding potential late enrollment penalties.The differences between Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans and how to determine which type of coverage may better fit your needs.Why reviewing your Medicare coverage over time is important as your health, prescriptions, location and plan benefits change.What options are available for individuals who retire before age 65 and need health insurance before becoming eligible for Medicare.And more!Tune in for a practical introduction to navigating the Medicare landscape, understanding your coverage options and preparing for one of retirement's most important healthcare decisions. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | needpartabc.com | needpartabc.com/listen | Follow Ryan George on LinkedIn | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send us a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Michael Maloney, is joined by Michael Maloney, Founder and Chief Creative of Brand Force 5, to explore why branding is about much more than a logo — and how the details many business owners overlook can shape customer trust, perception and ultimately, growth. From the quality of a postcard to the appearance of a service vehicle, every interaction can either strengthen or weaken a brand. Marc and Michael discuss how businesses can create a consistent identity, avoid costly branding mistakes and think of branding as an investment rather than simply another expense. In this episode, you will learn: Why a logo is something people see, but a brand is something people feel and experience.The five principles behind the FORCE framework — Focused, Ownable, Relevant, Continuous and Evocative — and how they can guide every aspect of a brand.Why inconsistent messaging, visuals and customer experiences can quietly erode trust and credibility.How to think about the hidden cost of bad branding — including the customers and opportunities you may never realize you're losing.What new business owners should define and invest in before spending money on marketing materials and campaigns.Why AI can be a valuable branding tool, but may still struggle to replace human judgment, emotion and creative insight.And more!Tune in for a conversation about the small details that influence how customers perceive your business and why building a strong brand starts long before you choose a logo. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | brandforce5.com: (862) 212-3720 | Brand Force 5 on Facebook | Brand Force 5 on LinkedIn | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, co-host John Williams speaks with Phoenix Hafen, Partnerships Manager at UI Charitable, about the growing world of crypto philanthropy and the broader strategies that can make charitable giving more tax-efficient. Phoenix explains why appreciated assets — including Bitcoin, publicly traded securities, private business interests and real estate — can sometimes be more advantageous to donate than cash. He also breaks down how donor-advised funds (DAFs) work, why charitable bunching can be useful, and how donors can separate the timing of a charitable tax deduction from when the money is ultimately granted to a nonprofit. In this episode, you will learn: Why appreciated assets can be more tax-efficient to donate than cash.How Bitcoin is treated for charitable giving purposes.How donor-advised funds work and when a donor-advised fund may — or may not — make sense.How charitable assets can be invested and grow tax-free.Examples of unconventional philanthropic strategies.And more!Whether you regularly give to charity, hold highly appreciated assets or are simply looking for more strategic ways to approach philanthropy, this episode offers a fresh perspective on charitable giving. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | uicharitable.org | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Whether you’re negotiating a business deal, discussing finances, or navigating everyday disagreements, the ability to communicate effectively can change the outcome. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, the Bautis Financial team discusses another book in their Book Club series: Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It–Unlock Your Persuasion Potential in Professional and Personal Life by Chris Voss and Tahl Raz. The book explores the psychology behind successful negotiations and reveals how techniques used by FBI hostage negotiators can be applied to everyday conversations — from business decisions and client relationships to personal interactions. Rather than focusing on winning arguments, Chris Voss emphasizes the importance of understanding people, building trust, and creating better outcomes through effective communication. In this episode, we discuss: Why negotiation is less about convincing others and more about understanding their perspective.How tactical empathy, labeling, and mirroring can help build trust and improve conversations.Why emotions play a major role in decision-making and how to navigate them effectively.The importance of asking better questions to uncover challenges and create stronger commitments.How negotiation strategies can apply to financial planning conversations with clientsAnd more!Tune in for a conversation about one of the most influential books on persuasion and human behavior. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It–Unlock Your Persuasion Potential in Professional and Personal Life | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send us a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

Money is one of the most powerful tools in a relationship — but when it's used to control instead of support, the consequences can be devastating. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, host Marc Bautis is joined by Amanda J. Scott, author of Finding My Way Back to Me. After enduring 17 years of emotional and financial abuse, Amanda now helps survivors recognize the warning signs of abuse, reclaim their independence and rebuild their lives. Together, Marc and Amanda discuss what financial abuse looks like, why it's often so difficult to recognize, and how survivors can begin the journey toward healing and financial empowerment. In this episode, you will learn: How emotional abuse often lays the foundation for financial abuse and why the two frequently go hand in hand.The subtle warning signs of financial abuse — including isolation, control over money and the gradual loss of confidence and independence.How friends and family can support someone they believe may be experiencing abuse.The financial and emotional challenges survivors face after leaving an abusive relationship — and the resources available to help them rebuild.And more!Tune in for an important conversation that sheds light on a frequently overlooked form of abuse, offering practical insights, hope and encouragement for survivors and those who want to support them. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | amandajscott.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send us a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

Is AI increasing your company's value—or putting it at risk of falling behind? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, co-host John Williams is joined by Ted Wolf, CEO and Founder of Guidewise.ai and author of The Intelligent Business Equation. Ted shares why artificial intelligence is becoming a key driver of private company value, how business owners should approach AI implementation, and what buyers and investors will be looking for in the years ahead. In this episode, you will learn: Why AI adoption is quickly becoming a factor in private company valuations—and what happens if businesses fail to adapt.The three foundational steps every business should take before implementing AI.How AI can reduce operational risk, improve productivity, and make a business more attractive to buyers.Why the future of work will depend as much on critical thinking and emotional intelligence as it does on technical skills.And more!Tune in for an insightful conversation on how business owners can use AI strategically—not just to improve efficiency today, but to build a more valuable, resilient, and future-ready company. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | guidewise.ai | Email Ted: [email protected] | Connect with Ted on LinkedIn: Ted Wolf | The Intelligent Business Equation | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send us a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

Could your cryptocurrency disappear overnight — and if it did, would anyone be responsible? As digital assets become more mainstream, so do the scams, security failures, and legal questions surrounding them…  In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Courtney M. Werning, Principal at Meyer Wilson Werning and leader of the firm's cryptocurrency litigation practice. Courtney has spent more than a decade helping investors recover losses caused by financial institutions, securities fraud, and cryptocurrency-related misconduct.  Together, they explore the hidden risks of crypto investing, the rise of increasingly sophisticated scams, and what investors should know if their digital assets are compromised. In this episode, you will learn: Why many crypto losses aren't simply the result of market volatility — and when investors may have legal options.The most common cryptocurrency scams, including social engineering attacks, account takeovers, phishing schemes, and recovery scams.Why Gen Z is being targeted by scammers more frequently than any other generation, despite growing up in a digital-first world.Practical steps investors can take to better protect themselves from fraud, AI-powered scams, and cybersecurity threats.And more!Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | meyerwilson.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send us a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

Before you hire your first employee, file your first patent or bring on a co-founder, there are a few legal decisions that can determine whether your startup succeeds—or struggles. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Philip Crowley, startup advisor, attorney, founder of Crowley Law LLC and author of Avoid Startup Failure. Drawing on decades of experience at Johnson & Johnson and advising technology startups, Philip shares the legal pitfalls entrepreneurs commonly overlook—and how avoiding them can protect both their innovations and their equity. In this episode, you will learn: Why founders should establish the right legal entity early—and how the choice between an LLC and a corporation can impact both liability protection and future tax benefits.The costly mistakes entrepreneurs make when negotiating term sheets, protecting intellectual property and waiting too long to seek legal guidance.Why written agreements with employees, contractors and co-founders are essential for protecting your company's intellectual property and attracting investors.How vesting schedules, founder agreements and thoughtful planning can prevent disputes and preserve long-term value as your business grows.And more!Tune in for practical legal strategies every entrepreneur should know before launching, hiring, raising capital or bringing a new product to market. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | Avoid Startup Failure: Learn the Top 10 Causes of Failure for Technology Startups and How to Turn Them to Your Advantage by Philip Crowley | https://crowleylawllc.com | Email: [email protected] | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

What's the biggest threat to your retirement? It might not be inflation or market volatility. It could be losing your strength, mobility, and independence. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, co-host John Williams is joined by Susan Brady, a physical therapist, integrative health practitioner, and bone health expert with more than 30 years of experience. Susan shares why building wealth for retirement is only part of the equation — and how maintaining your strength, mobility, and independence can help you fully enjoy the years you've worked so hard to reach. In this episode, you will learn: Why exercise becomes even more important as we age — and why everyday activities alone aren't enough to preserve muscle and bone.How nutrition, gut health, and proper protein intake play a critical role in maintaining bone density and preventing fractures.Why falls — not just osteoporosis — are one of the biggest threats to independence in retirement, and practical ways to reduce your risk.How Susan's holistic BONES Method helps people build stronger bones naturally through lifestyle, nutrition, movement, and personalized care.And more!Tune in for actionable strategies to protect your health, stay active, and maintain the independence needed to enjoy a long, fulfilling retirement. Resources:  Episode Transcript & Blog | nurturedbones.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

Your condo or co-op may be your biggest investment—but is poor board governance quietly reducing its value? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, co-host John Williams is joined by Tina Larsson, Co-Founder of The Folson Group, New York's premier co-op and condo consulting firm. After uncovering $340,000 in unnecessary expenses in her own building, Tina left a successful Wall Street career to help co-op and condo boards improve governance, strengthen financial oversight, and protect property values. Together, they discuss how effective leadership, proactive planning, and informed decision-making can make a significant difference for property owners and prospective buyers alike. In this episode, you will learn: How board governance directly impacts property values, monthly fees, and long-term building health.What buyers should look for beyond financial statements before purchasing a condo or co-op.Why serving on your building's board may be one of the best ways to protect your largest investment.Practical strategies boards can use to improve operations, reduce unnecessary costs, and plan proactively for the future.And more!Tune in for an insightful conversation on how stronger governance can help preserve property values, improve communities, and avoid costly mistakes before they happen. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | The Folson Group | Living the High Life | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

What if a single form you filled out decades ago could override your will and completely change where your assets end up?  For millions of Americans, outdated beneficiary designations create costly estate planning mistakes that can leave loved ones fighting legal battles, paying unnecessary fees, or losing inheritances altogether. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis explains why beneficiary designations are one of the most overlooked components of a financial plan. Through real-life examples and practical guidance, Marc breaks down how retirement accounts, life insurance policies, brokerage accounts, and bank accounts are transferred after death — and why keeping your beneficiary information current is essential to protecting your family's financial future. In this episode, you will learn: Why beneficiary designations often override your will and trust documents.How outdated or missing beneficiaries can create expensive legal and probate complications.The difference between assets that pass through probate and those that transfer directly to beneficiaries.How to conduct a comprehensive beneficiary audit across all of your financial accounts.And more!Tune in for a step-by-step guide to reviewing your beneficiary designations, avoiding common estate planning pitfalls, and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

SpaceX is poised to become one of the world's most valuable public companies overnight. The question is: does the opportunity justify the risk? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis takes a deep dive into the highly anticipated SpaceX IPO. Rather than offering a simple buy-or-sell recommendation, Marc breaks down the company's S-1 filing, explores the business segments driving its massive valuation, and examines both the opportunities and risks facing potential investors. In this episode, you will learn: Why SpaceX's expected $1.77 trillion valuation makes it one of the largest companies in the world from day one.How Starlink, launch services, and the integration of xAI are shaping SpaceX's growth story and future potential.The biggest risks hidden in the IPO prospectus, including cash burn, valuation concerns, governance issues, and Elon Musk dependency.A practical framework for determining whether a high-profile IPO belongs in your portfolio.And more!From Starlink and artificial intelligence to Elon Musk's influence and the realities of IPO investing, this episode provides a framework for evaluating one of the most talked-about investment opportunities in recent memory. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog |Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call