Crazy Wealthy Podcast

Behavioral finance expert Doug Lennick joins Jonathan Blau on the Crazy Wealthy podcast to discuss how emotional intelligence shapes successful investment decisions. Lennick, CEO of think2perform, pioneered behavioral finance applications decades before it became mainstream. He shares his "Four Rs" framework—Recognize, Reflect, Reframe, Respond—which helps investors overcome cognitive biases and make rational decisions during market volatility. The conversation explores how investor behavior determines financial success and emphasizes values-based decisions for effective wealth management.What You’ll Learn in this Episode:How the Four Rs framework (Recognize, Reflect, Reframe, Respond) helps you make better financial decisions by slowing down automatic emotional responses and engaging your reflective mind to overcome cognitive biases.Why past behavior is more predictive than past performance, and how understanding behavioral patterns gives you control over your financial future through actionable changes you can make today.The difference between emotional intelligence and moral intelligence, and why developing both as differentiating competencies is essential for making values-based decisions that align with what truly matters.Want to make smarter financial decisions grounded in clarity and confidence? Subscribe and share the Crazy Wealthy Podcast. To learn more about Fusion Family Wealth’s evidence-based investment strategies, visit www.fusionfamilywealth.com and request our current disclosure brochure.TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Introduction to behavioral finance pioneer Doug and emotional intelligence in investing07:55 Understanding amygdala hijack and why brains can't distinguish bear markets from real danger11:00 The Four Rs framework: Recognize, Reflect, Reframe, Respond for better decision making20:12 Doug's journey into financial services without a college degree30:08 Differentiating competencies: Why emotional and moral intelligence trump technical skills40:33 How to achieve happiness and aligning behaviors with values to achieve financial success47:05 Jon and Amy recap the episodeKEY TAKEAWAYS:Investor behavior, not market conditions, determines financial success. The Four Rs framework helps you make rational decisions during market volatility.Past behavior predicts outcomes more reliably than past performance. Unlike market timing, your behavior can be changed through practice and self-awareness.True fiduciary responsibility requires emotional intelligence and moral intelligence. Helping clients align decisions with values creates lasting impact.ABOUT THE GUEST:Doug is an internationally acclaimed author, a Certified Financial Planner and Behavioral Financial Advisor and is CEO and co-founder of think2perform, a firm internationally recognized for developing values-based decision-making and high performance in individuals and organizations.Doug Lennick - LinkedInthink2perform - WebsiteDoug Lennick: books, biography, latest updateABOUT THE HOST: Jonathan Blau is the President and CEO of Fusion Family Wealth, a fiduciary wealth management firm he founded in 2013 to help families achieve clarity, confidence, and purpose with their money. With a deep focus on behavioral finance, Jonathan teaches investors how to recognize emotional biases and make evidence-based decisions that support long-term success. A sought-after speaker in wealth management, Jonathan previously held senior roles in tax and estate planning at Arthur Andersen. He has a BS in Finance, an MS in Taxation, and an MBA in Accounting. LinkedIn – Jonathan BlauFusion Family Wealth WebsiteCrazy Wealthy Podcast

Welcome to this episode of the Crazy Wealthy Podcast! Today we feature Vicki Schneps, a media entrepreneur and founder of Schneps Media and Life’s Work. Listen as we learn how Vicki turned her passion for education into a thriving media empire and nonprofit that empowers local leaders and supports community journalism. By the end of the episode, you’ll understand how vision, persistence, and strategic partnerships can help create both business and community impact.What You’ll Learn: How Vicki transitioned from teaching to media leadership Strategies for growing a media company across multiple platforms and events Turning personal and professional adversity into long-term legacyWant to make smarter financial decisions grounded in clarity and confidence? Subscribe and share the Crazy Wealthy Podcast. To learn more about Fusion Family Wealth’s evidence-based investment strategies, visit www.fusionfamilywealth.com and request our current disclosure brochure.Key Timestamps: 00:00 — Introduction and podcast disclaimer 01:00 — Vicki Schneps’ journey from teacher to media mogul 05:00 — Founding Life’s Work and early nonprofit efforts 11:30 — Growing Schneps Media across platforms 17:00 — Power Women and Kings events 22:00 — Digital integration and networking 27:00 — Turning adversity into legacy 33:00 — Identifying talent and scaling business 35:00 — Life’s Work expansion and call for board members 36:02 — Jon and Amy recap the episodeKey Takeaways: Vision and persistence are essential for creating both business and community impact Strategic partnerships and talent identification are key to scaling a media enterprise Personal adversity can be leveraged to build long-term legacy and empower othersGuest Info:Vicki Schneps is the founder and CEO of Schneps Media and the nonprofit Life’s Work, dedicated to supporting community journalism and empowering local leaders. She is also known for creating influential events such as Power Women and Kings that foster networking and professional development. Schneps Media – schnepsmedia.comLife’s WORC – life’s WORC info via CaringKind (profile) CaringKindVicki Schneps on Muck Rack (articles) – Muck Rack profileAbout the HostJonathan Blau is the President and CEO of Fusion Family Wealth, a fiduciary wealth management firm he founded in 2013 to help families achieve clarity, confidence, and purpose with their money. With a deep focus on behavioral finance, Jonathan teaches investors how to recognize emotional biases and make evidence-based decisions that support long-term success. A sought-after speaker in wealth management, Jonathan previously held senior roles in tax and estate planning at Arthur Andersen. He holds a BS in Finance, an MS in Taxation, and an MBA in Accounting. Based on Long Island, Jonathan is active in the local business community, supports organizations such as the Middle Market Alliance and Sunrise Day Camp, and enjoys boating with his family. LinkedIn – Jonathan Blau Fusion Family Wealth Website Crazy Wealthy Podcast

Welcome to Fix-It Friday, the segment of the Crazy Wealthy Podcast that simplifies financial strategies to help you make smarter money decisions. Hosted by Jonathan Blau, President and CEO of Fusion Family Wealth, each episode explores common biases and decision-making pitfalls that shape our financial thinking—and how to fix them. In this episode, Jonathan breaks down the difference between volatility and risk, explains how investors often misinterpret short-term market movements, and shares counterintuitive strategies for protecting and growing your purchasing power over time. You’ll learn how reframing risk, return, and volatility can help you become a more confident, long-term investor.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why volatility is not the same as risk and how misinterpreting it can hurt your portfolio How short-term market movements often reflect noise, not long-term business fundamentals The hidden danger of bonds and low-volatility strategies in preserving purchasing power Behavioral biases like loss aversion and counterintuitive human reactions to stock pricesWant to make smarter financial decisions grounded in clarity and confidence? Subscribe and share the Crazy Wealthy Podcast. To learn more about Fusion Family Wealth’s evidence-based investment strategies, visit www.fusionfamilywealth.com and request our current disclosure brochure.Timestamps 00:00 Intro: Welcome to Fix It Friday 01:30 Defining volatility vs. long-term risk 03:00 Short-term price drops vs. underlying business value 07:00 Redefining risk: protecting purchasing power, not principal 11:00 Behavioral biases: loss aversion and counterintuitive investing reactions 14:45 Closing thoughts: why stocks can be safer than bondsKey Takeaways Volatility measures price fluctuations, not the long-term risk of investments. Mistaking short-term market noise for risk leads to poor long-term decisions. Bonds and “safe” low-volatility strategies can erode purchasing power over time.Awareness of behavioral biases helps investors make rational decisions during market swings.About the HostJonathan Blau is the President and CEO of Fusion Family Wealth, a fiduciary wealth management firm he founded in 2013 to help families achieve clarity, confidence, and purpose with their money. With a deep focus on behavioral finance, Jonathan teaches investors how to recognize emotional biases and make evidence-based decisions that support long-term success. A sought-after speaker in wealth management, Jonathan previously held senior roles in tax and estate planning at Arthur Andersen. He holds a BS in Finance, an MS in Taxation, and an MBA in Accounting. Based on Long Island, Jonathan is active in the local business community, supports organizations such as the Middle Market Alliance and Sunrise Day Camp, and enjoys boating with his family. LinkedIn – Jonathan Blau Fusion Family Wealth Website Crazy Wealthy PodcastDisclosureInvestment advisory services may not be suitable for every investor or portfolio. Neither Fusion’s investment advisor registration status nor prior experience or success should be construed as a guarantee of specific results. Fusion is neither a law firm nor an accounting firm, and none of its services should be interpreted as legal or accounting advice. No portion of this content should be viewed as a guarantee that any client or prospective client will experience a particular outcome or level of results. For additional information regarding Fusion’s investment advisory services and fees, refer to the current written disclosure brochure available upon request or online at www.fusionfamilywealth.com.

In this heartwarming episode of the Crazy Wealthy Podcast, Jonathan Blau sits down with Arnie Preminger, founder and CEO of the Sunrise Association, the organization behind Sunrise Day Camps, the world’s first full-summer day camps for children with cancer and their siblings.Arnie shares the unlikely story of how a Paul McCartney concert sparked the idea, the challenges of creating a camp model that keeps kids close to critical medical care, and how the program has grown from one camp on Long Island to a global movement across the U.S. and Israel. IN THIS EPISODE:00:00 Introduction02:05 Arnie explains the unique model of Sunrise Day Camps for children with cancer06:52 How a Paul McCartney concert inspired the creation of Sunrise Organization12:44 Jonathan shares his personal experience volunteering at Sunrise camps14:39 What motivates Arnie to keep expanding Sunrise18:09 Fundraising growth from $750k to $14 million annually21:55 Impact of visiting the camp on donors24:21 Closing remarks and how to support Sunrise Association25:04 Recap of the episode with Jon and AmyKEY TAKEAWAYS:Sunrise Day Camps provide a unique day camp experience for children with cancer, allowing them to return home each night—crucial for those undergoing treatment.Childhood cancer affects families across all economic levels, with about 35% of families in Sunrise programs near the poverty line.The organization has grown from raising $750,000 in its first year to needing $14 million annually, expanding to 13 physical camps and one virtual camp across the US and Israel.Volunteers and donors play a crucial role in Sunrise's success, with personal connections driving significant fundraising efforts.RESOURCE LINKS Fusion Family Wealth - WebsiteJohathan Blau - LinkedInArnie WebsiteArnie LinkedInGUEST BIOGRAPHY: Arnie Preminger has been involved in not-for-profit organizations for the past 41 years, having begun his career as a youth worker and camp counselor in the Bronx in 1976. For 29 of those years, Arnie served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Friedberg JCC. During that time, he presided over the expansion of the agency from a $120,000 operating budget to its current incarnation as the only full-service JCC on the south shore of Long Island with annual operations totaling over twelve million dollars. Please click below for important disclosure information. https://www.fusionfamilywealth.com/disclosuresABOUT THE HOST: Jonathan is the President and CEO of Fusion Family Wealth, founded in 2013 to focus on behavioral finance and guide clients toward rational financial decisions. A sought-after speaker in wealth management, Jonathan previously held senior roles in tax and estate planning at Arthur Andersen. He has a BS in Finance, an MS in Taxation, and an MBA in Accounting. Based in Long Island, Jonathan is active in the local business community, supports causes like the Middle Market Alliance and Sunrise Day Camp, and enjoys boating with his family.

From yachts to private jets, wealthy people love toys that blend nostalgia with luxury—and few capture that thrill better than a high-tech, custom pinball machine! In this episode, Jonathan sits down with his good friend Jack Guarnieri, a pinball industry legend and founder of Jersey Jack Pinball. Jack shares his journey from teenage pinball mechanic to revolutionizing the industry with cutting-edge technology and a customer-first approach, creating the ultimate luxury entertainment for high-net-worth enthusiasts. IN THIS EPISODE:(00:00) Introduction(02:50) Jack's unexpected entry into the pinball world at age 15(05:00) The shift from arcade to home pinball sales(07:40) Origin of Jersey Jack Pinball name(12:11) Jack's customer service philosophy built a loyal following(17:00) The Toys the Wealthy Crave (20:21) Technological advancements transforming pinball into "playable artwork"(23:05) Challenges with pinball awareness today(25:00) How to contact Jack and Jersey Jack Pinball(27:21) Recap of the episode with Jon and AmyKEY TAKEAWAYS:Passion and adaptability are crucial for long-term success in niche luxury markets, especially when creating toys that the wealthy craveIdentifying new markets (like home pinball sales) can lead to significant business opportunitiesExceptional customer service can turn challenges into loyal customers and an extended "family"Embracing technological advancements can revitalize traditional products and industriesBuilding a strong personal brand can become a valuable business assetRESOURCE LINKS Fusion Family Wealth - WebsiteJohathan Blau - LinkedInJersey Jack PinballGUEST BIOGRAPHY: Founded in 2011 by amusement industry veteran Jack Guarnieri, Jersey Jack Pinball was born out of an enduring love for pinball and a vision to elevate the game to exciting new heights. With over 36 years of creative and technical experience, Jack saw an opportunity to honor pinball’s rich history while reimagining it for a modern audience.Hand-built in America, each JJP machine is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, creativity, and ingenuity. With a team of legendary designers, artists, and programmers—pioneers who helped shape the golden age of pinball—we create games that redefine the experience through stunning visuals, groundbreaking technology, and rich, immersive gameplay. By pushing the boundaries of what’s possible while staying true to the game’s roots, we’ve not only raised the stakes for quality and creativity, but have also reignited the excitement of an American icon for players of all skill levels.Please click below for important disclosure information. https://www.fusionfamilywealth.com/disclosuresABOUT THE HOST: Jonathan is the President and CEO of Fusion Family Wealth, founded in 2013 to focus on behavioral finance and guide clients toward rational financial decisions. A sought-after speaker in wealth management, Jonathan previously held senior roles in tax and estate planning at Arthur Andersen. He has a BS in Finance, an MS in Taxation, and an MBA in Accounting. Based in Long Island, Jonathan is active in the local business community, supports causes like the Middle Market Alliance and Sunrise Day Camp, and enjoys boating with his family.

Welcome to the Crazy Wealthy Podcast! Jonathan interviews Rob Basso, a seasoned entrepreneur and business coach who shares his journey from humble beginnings to building and selling multiple successful businesses. Rob's journey is truly inspiring. We dive deep into his experiences founding Long Island Advantage Payroll and his subsequent business ventures. Rob opens up about the challenges he faced, including a difficult split with a business partner, and how he overcame them. For all you entrepreneurs out there, Rob shares invaluable insights from his book "The Everyday Entrepreneur" and discusses his current work as a business coach. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, this episode is packed with wisdom you won't want to miss. Tune in! IN THIS EPISODE:(00:00) Introduction(01:50) Rob Basso recounts his early life and the entrepreneurial lessons learned(05:21) The creative job-seeking strategy that launched Rob's career in the payroll industry(08:19) Rob discusses his book "The Everyday Entrepreneur" (09:30) The "Triple Threat" of Entrepreneurship(13:07) Post-exit challenges: Navigating the emotional impact of sudden wealth(26:40) Overcoming partnership disputes and preparing for a successful business exit(35:50) Rob's current role as a business coach and consultant(40:37) Recap of the episode with Jon and AmyKEY TAKEAWAYS:Early experiences, such as having a paper route, can instill valuable entrepreneurial skills like responsibility and customer service.Entrepreneurial success often requires a combination of ambition, confidence, and conviction, coupled with years of persistent effort.The emotional challenges of post-exit wealth can be significant. Having a solid financial plan and advisor is crucial for navigating this transition.Business partnerships can present unique challenges. Clear communication and aligned expectations are essential for long-term success.Personal branding, particularly on platforms like LinkedIn, is increasingly important for CEOs and can significantly impact company value.RESOURCE LINKS Fusion Family Wealth - WebsiteJohathan Blau - LinkedInRob Basso - Website Rob Basso - Instragram Rob Basso - LinkedIn GUEST BIOGRAPHY: Rob Basso is a seasoned entrepreneur, published business book author, and national business media commentator. As an entrepreneur, he successfully built and sold two Inc. 500 payroll/human capital management companies to large public companies and has been part of many multi-million-dollar deals. Additionally, he co-founded Empire National Bank, which was subsequently sold to Flushing National Bank. He is a Certified Entrepreneur and Executive Coach and has a thriving consulting practice that builds personal brands for entrepreneurs through the power of LinkedIn.Please click below for important disclosure information. https://www.fusionfamilywealth.com/disclosuresABOUT THE HOST: Jonathan is the President and CEO of Fusion Family Wealth, founded in 2013 to focus on behavioral finance and guide clients toward rational financial decisions. A sought-after speaker in wealth management, Jonathan previously held senior roles in tax and estate planning at Arthur Andersen. He has a BS in Finance, an MS in Taxation, and an MBA in Accounting. Based in Long Island, Jonathan is active in the local business community, supports causes like the Middle Market Alliance and Sunrise Day Camp, and enjoys boating with his family.

In this episode, Jonathan Blau sits down with The GOAT — “Greatest of all Tax” specialists, Scott T. Ditman, CPA, PFS. He is a Consultant at Citrin Cooperman and a Former Tax Partner, Executive Committee Member, and Head of Personal Wealth Service at Berdon, LLP. Scott works closely with high-net-worth individuals and family/owner-managed business clients, advising on estate and income tax issues, and succession and financial planning. Listen as he shares the critical importance of integrated, holistic financial planning for high-net-worth individuals. Drawing on their extensive professional relationship, Jonathan and Scott offer invaluable insights into best practices in wealth management. IN THIS EPISODE:(00:00) Introduction: Jonathan welcomes Scott Ditman(01:52) Scott Ditman on Financial Disciplines(09:38) Career Development And The Impact Of Mentorship(16:54) Navigating Challenges In Client-Centered Financial Advising(23:52) Adapting Plans As Client Situations Change(35:50) Goal-Based Planning Vs. Performance Chasing(37:04) Upcoming Tax Law Changes And Their Implications For Estate Planning(41:34) Defining Financial Planning And Goal-Based ApproachKEY TAKEAWAYS:Integrated financial planning is crucial. Professionals from various disciplines must collaborate to create comprehensive strategies that address all aspects of a client's financial health.Scott Ditman highlights that effective client communication is as important as technical expertise. Explaining complex concepts in simple terms helps clients make informed decisions.Focus on client goals rather than arbitrary benchmarks. Aligning financial strategies with specific life objectives leads to more meaningful outcomes than chasing market performance.Stay informed about legislative changes. Proactive planning in anticipation of potential shifts in tax laws can significantly impact estate planning strategies.RESOURCE LINKS Fusion Family Wealth - WebsiteJohathan Blau - LinkedInScott’s LinkedInGUEST BIOGRAPHY: Scott T. Ditman, CPA, PFS a consultant for Citrin Cooperman. He was with Berdon for over 35 years where he was a Tax  Partner; Member of the Executive Committee; and Leader of the Firm’s Personal Wealth Services Practice.Scott works closely with high net worth individuals and family/owner-managed business clients, advising on estate and income tax issues, and succession and financial planning.  Scott speaks at various organizations, including the Annual Heckerling Institute on Estate Planning, on issues that include trust and estate planning, fiduciary accounting, and income tax planning. He has contributed to Bloomberg.com, Forbes, The CPA Journal, Long Island Business News, Newsday, Accounting Today, Journal of Financial Planning, Reuters, and Vault.  He also writes the blog T & E Talk.Scott received his master’s from Baruch College and his BS from Brooklyn College.Please click below for important disclosure information. https://www.fusionfamilywealth.com/disclosuresABOUT THE HOST: Jonathan is the President and CEO of Fusion Family Wealth, founded in 2013 to focus on behavioral finance and guide clients toward rational financial decisions. A sought-after speaker in wealth management, Jonathan previously held senior roles in tax and estate planning at Arthur Andersen. He has a BS in Finance, an MS in Taxation, and an MBA in Accounting. Based in Long Island, Jonathan is active in the local business community, supports causes like the Middle Market Alliance and Sunrise Day Camp, and enjoys boating with his family.