Don't Retire...Graduate!

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s special episode, we’re closing the chapter on our beloved “Diary of a Financial Advisor” segment as part of this podcast. It’s a bittersweet milestone, but I’m excited to have a fantastic guest to help us celebrate and reflect. Joining me is Kobe Bolanos, a rising star at BFG Financial Advisors whose journey from Operations Associate to budding financial advisor is both inspiring and insightful. I kicked off our conversation by sharing how Kobe Bolanos has been with BFG for just over four years and is rounding out our five-year apprenticeship program, well on his way to leading clients into brighter financial futures. We talked about his academic background—hailing from Lebanon, Pennsylvania, and earning his degree at Stevenson University before taking on the rigorous Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation. Beyond the office, Kobe Bolanos finds joy in reading and taking on unique fitness challenges—a testament to his discipline both personally and professionally. 5 Key Takeaways: Growth Beyond the Textbook: Kobe Bolanos emphasizes that real financial advising isn’t just about technical knowledge; it’s about understanding clients’ emotions and unique situations—skills you only build through experience.Importance of Emotional Intelligence: Emotional intelligence is crucial, especially when guiding clients through transitions, losses, or fears. Effective advisors translate technical concepts into language clients can relate to, tailoring advice on a client-by-client basis.Early Advocacy for Estate Planning: Kobe Bolanos is committed to bringing estate planning awareness to younger generations, having witnessed firsthand the financial and emotional impact of being prepared—or not.Building Young Professional Networks: By connecting with the Young Lawyers Group and leading professional organizations, Kobe Bolanos is fostering relationships that will shape the future of the industry, proving the value of starting early in building a professional community.Learning from Mistakes: Neither career nor personal growth happens without a few stumbles. Kobe Bolanos’s ability to laugh at himself, learn, and roll with mistakes demonstrates resilience—an invaluable trait for any professional. Join us as we continue to inspire and educate you on your journey toward financial freedom and purpose. Thank you for supporting “Diary of a Financial Advisor.” Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode, and stay tuned for exciting updates with BFG University. As always, don’t retire—graduate!   [embed]https://youtu.be/HctOJgfKOhI?si=LONX9Qzvl-6akcSy[/embed]

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode of our “Diary of a Financial Advisor” segment, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Hannah Dennis, who transitioned from teaching young children to becoming a client relations associate and our resident marketing guru at BFG Financial Advisors. Hannah’s journey is a compelling example of how diverse skills—like those honed in the classroom—can create an immediate impact in the financial services industry. Hannah joined us after graduating from the University of Scranton and teaching for four years in the Baltimore area. Her background in education has been invaluable in shaping her communication style, her empathetic approach to clients, and her ability to keep all of us, especially me, in check! In addition to her client relations role, Hannah dove headfirst into the marketing aspect of our firm, helping to track and optimize our initiatives, including this very podcast. In our discussion, Hannah and I explored her transition from education to finance, noting the shift from an “island” of classroom independence to a collaborative team environment. She explained how data-driven decision-making from her teaching days now influences our marketing strategies, emphasizing the importance of tracking what’s truly working—whether that’s a successful webinar or a standout podcast episode. We also discussed the stressful yet rewarding reality of managing marketing in a busy firm and the value of slowing down to implement changes efficiently. Hannah shared what it’s like to be behind the scenes, wrangling not just the team, but also vendors, deadlines, and creative ideas. With the podcast and Diary segment both evolving—particularly with Diary moving to a webinar format through BFG University—Hannah’s skill set has never been more crucial. For some lighter moments, we talked about our firm’s annual summit, our karaoke adventures (stay tuned for a possible duet reveal!), and what our listeners can look forward to as we launch new and improved educational content in the coming year. Hannah’s journey is not just about a career shift but about leveraging strengths, embracing change, and always striving for personal and professional growth. 5 Key Takeaways: Embracing Career Change: Hannah’s journey from teaching to finance demonstrates that transferable skills, like collaboration and data-driven thinking, are invaluable—even across vastly different industries.Data-Driven Marketing: By applying her experience as a teacher, Hannah transformed our marketing approach—utilizing data to determine which initiatives, webinars, and podcast episodes best engage our audience.The Power of Collaboration: Moving from a solo teaching role to a team environment at BFG allowed Hannah to learn from colleagues, share new ideas, and innovate more effectively than ever before.Adapting to Growth and Change: Hannah’s advice to “slow down, trust the process, and implement change gradually” is a lesson for anyone stepping into a new role or industry.Looking Ahead—Interactivity and Fresh Content: With “Diary of a Financial Advisor” moving to a webinar format on BFG University, our content will become more timely, interactive, and driven by what you—our listeners—want to see. Join us as we share, learn, and grow together on the path to financial independence and a fulfilling, purpose-driven future. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a comment (especially if you want to see our karaoke duet!), and share this episode with friends and colleagues on the journey to “Don’t Retire… Graduate!”   [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HYAlhnCjcLc[/embed]

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In this special “Diary of a Financial Advisor” segment, I’m thrilled to welcome Andrew Harrell. Andrew’s journey is one of passion, commitment, and ongoing growth. He began at BFG as an associate in 2018, quickly advanced to lead advisor in 2023, and recently became a shareholder. Andrew graduated cum laude from Coastal Carolina University and was recognized with an Outstanding Alumnus Award from their Wall College of Business. He holds his CRPC (Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor) and his CFP (Certified Financial Planner), already making an impressive mark in the field. Andrew and I dove into his evolving role, the significance of financial wellness, and the value of professional networking through the Financial Planning Association (FPA). We traded familiar office banter—yes, his “Young Protege” and “EJ” nicknames are alive and well!—before unpacking how staying engaged with the FPA not only shapes the profession but also impacts legislative advocacy and community outreach. Andrew explained how collaboration with fellow advisors, not competition, best serves clients and the financial planning industry. We then explored a pivotal initiative at BFG: our corporate financial wellness program with KCI and other organizations. Andrew shared how this program empowers employees at every level to make sound financial choices, alleviating stress and fostering peace of mind through holistic planning. We also talked about the importance of taking off the “planner hat” and embracing well-rounded wellness for clients and ourselves. To wrap up, Andrew reflected on his vision for the future—staying true to his own strengths while continuing to make a difference. 5 Key Takeaways: The Power of Professional Community: Andrew emphasized that working together with other financial advisors through the Financial Planning Association fosters collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and positive impact—rather than rivalry. Legislative Advocacy Matters: Involvement with the FPA and similar organizations keeps financial advisors aware of regulatory changes and provides a voice to influence legislation that affects both advisors and their clients. Financial Wellness for All Levels: Our corporate wellness program brings personalized financial guidance directly to employees, helping them understand complex benefits packages and make informed decisions regardless of their asset level. Holistic Wellness is Essential: True financial planning goes beyond numbers—it’s about providing peace of mind, making sure beneficiaries and wills are in place, and reducing stress for both advisors and their clients. Never Stop Growing: Andrew’s journey reminds us that ongoing professional development, community engagement, and the desire to elevate those around us are keys to a fulfilling and impactful career in financial planning. Thank you for joining us on this episode as we continue to inspire, educate, and guide you toward financial freedom with purpose. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with anyone looking to reshape their financial future! [embed]https://youtu.be/lhKmqEqDFvU?si=dpcJY6mcvdOm9P2F[/embed]

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! Today’s episode is part of our exclusive “Diary of a Financial Advisor” series, where I sit down with fellow advisors to explore their professional paths, motivations, and insights for helping others succeed financially. I’m excited to introduce our guest for this conversation, Claudia Glover, CFP®, who serves as the chair of our investment committee here at BFG and brings a wealth of experience from her time in both large institutions and more personalized advisory roles. In our discussion, Claudia shares her inspiring journey from watching her immigrant parents model financial discipline to building an impressive career in finance—including time on a fixed income trading desk, supporting advisory services, and managing a growth and income SMA at Wells Fargo. We dive into the cultural shift she experienced moving from a vast institution to our close-knit BFG team, and how that transition has allowed her to connect more deeply and meaningfully with clients. We talk about Claudia’s “why”—what drives her to do this work—and the joy she finds in guiding clients through major milestones, from retirement to paying the final tuition bill. I put her on the spot about how she’s become the organization’s go-to volunteer for committees and projects, and Claudia candidly reflects on her commitment to both personal and professional growth. We also discuss the value of having an accountability partner, a program we utilize at BFG to keep each member focused and supported, as well as the transformative impact of our financial wellness initiatives for clients and employees alike. If you’re curious about what drives top advisors and how intentional planning—both personal and professional—can fuel better outcomes, this episode has something for you! 5 Key Takeaways: A Personal History Fuels Professional Passion: Claudia’s early exposure to her family’s disciplined financial management instilled in her a drive to enter the finance industry and help others achieve similar stability and success. Diverse Industry Experience Matters: From trading desks to portfolio management, Claudia’s varied background equips her to navigate complex client needs and deliver thoughtful, informed advice. Intimate Client Relationships Set BFG Apart: Transitioning from a large corporation to a boutique firm, Claudia emphasizes the ability to deeply understand clients' financial worlds and provide true financial planning. Milestone Moments Motivate Advisors: The most rewarding aspect of the work, according to Claudia, is witnessing clients achieve significant life events—whether it’s retiring or finishing paying for a child’s education. Accountability and Wellness Programs Enhance Growth: Regular check-ins with accountability partners and participation in BFG’s financial wellness programs not only help advisors stay focused but also expand the reach and impact of financial education. Join us as we continue to spotlight the journeys and wisdom of financial advisors who shape lives and build legacies. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with anyone eager to graduate into a life of financial purpose and fulfillment! [embed]https://youtu.be/TDTrkfwT_nk[/embed]

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re diving into one of the most essential—yet often overlooked—aspects of a healthy financial life: insurance as part of your risk management strategy. I’m delighted to welcome back Jillian Howell, a talented Client Service Associate at BFG Financial Advisors who first joined us earlier this year. Jillian brings not only her expertise in communications and client support but also a budding passion for the insurance world, inspired by earning her life and health insurance license. With her fresh perspective and genuine enthusiasm, she’s helping clients feel both informed and empowered as they navigate life’s financial journey. In our discussion, Jillian and I explored the vital role that insurance—particularly life insurance—plays in building a secure and resilient financial plan. We talked about what drew her to insurance, how her understanding has evolved, and why she feels so passionately about making it accessible and understandable for everyone, especially younger people who often overlook its importance. Together, we debunked common myths, such as the notion that insurance is only for older individuals or those in poor health. Jillian walked through the must-have elements of a risk management plan, the critical calculations behind determining insurance needs, and the reasons to start early—even when you’re young and healthy. We also touched on the importance of regularly taking inventory of your current coverage and the idea that life insurance should be actively managed, not just tucked away and forgotten. And, on a lighter note, we even chatted about insuring cherished family pets! 5 Key Takeaways: Insurance as a Foundation of Risk Management: Insurance isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a foundational part of any risk management plan, alongside legal documents, tax considerations, and asset titling. It’s about protecting both assets and loved ones. Life Insurance Myths Debunked: One of the biggest misconceptions is that young, healthy people don’t need life insurance. In reality, securing coverage early locks in better rates and preserves insurability before any health issues arise. Determining the Right Amount of Coverage: There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but striving for 10 to 15 times your annual income—while factoring in debts, dependents, and future needs—can provide important protection for your family. Take Inventory and Reassess Regularly: Don’t just rely on employer-provided policies or outdated coverage. Sit down, review what you have, and look for gaps or weaknesses in your protection. Life insurance is an asset to be managed, not forgotten. Insurance and Legacy Planning: From debt and income replacement to estate planning and even tax strategies, insurance can be leveraged for more than just “what if I don’t wake up tomorrow?”—it’s a powerful tool for overall financial resilience. Join us as we uncover how a passion for insurance and risk management can enrich your financial wellbeing, empower you with knowledge, and set your loved ones up for greater peace of mind. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with anyone ready to reimagine what insurance can do for their financial future! [embed]https://youtu.be/KwlcRNNhPcA[/embed]

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! I’m your host, Eric Brotman, and on today’s Diary of a Financial Advisor segment, we’re shining a light on the journey of college students and recent graduates as they navigate the complex world of higher education, student loans, scholarships, and financial planning. Joining me is Tony Breen, an accomplished senior finance major at Stevenson University, intern at BFG Financial Advisors, and the only person in six years who’s had the courage to interview me on my own show! Tony is not only pursuing a master’s in forensic accounting but also serves as President of the Financial Management Association and VP of Enactus at Stevenson, making him one of the busiest students I know. During our conversation, Tony and I dive deep into the financial realities of higher education. We talk candidly about how he transitioned from a biology major to finance, the influence of his family’s financial planning (including the benefits of a 529 college savings plan), and the critical role scholarships and institutional support played in his college decision process. We also look at how today’s college students prepare to launch their careers, manage debt, and make smart choices that set them up for long-term success. We exchanged advice and stories about picking the right school, finding affordable pathways to a degree, and capitalizing on internships and campus involvement. Tony’s perspective is refreshingly grounded—he speaks from recent, real experience and offers actionable advice for students, parents, and anyone supporting the next generation through the maze of higher education and early professional life. 5 Key Takeaways: Strategic School Choice is Crucial: Tony emphasizes that picking the right school—one that not only fits academically and socially but also financially—can make all the difference. Shopping for the best net price, leveraging scholarships, and considering both public and private options is essential. 529 College Savings Plans Provide a Head Start: Starting a 529 plan early, as Tony’s grandfather did, helped offset the costs of college and allowed Tony to graduate with little to no student debt—an advantage that influenced his final school decision. Scholarships and Grants Are Out There—But You Must Apply: Many scholarships go unused because students aren’t aware of them or don’t take the initiative to apply. Proactively seeking out scholarships and working with advisors can meaningfully reduce college costs. Debt-Free Graduation Sets You Up for Success: Graduating without significant student loans provides young professionals with greater flexibility, less stress, and a stronger foundation for achieving financial independence and future life goals. Campus Involvement Opens Doors: Tony’s advice to get involved on campus (clubs, leadership, internships, and networking with professors) has led to scholarships, career opportunities, and a more fulfilling college experience. Waiting for opportunities isn’t enough—students should be proactive. This episode is a powerful reminder that with the right planning, support, and initiative, students can chart a bright financial future—without sacrificing their passions or burying themselves in debt. Whether you’re a student, parent, or grandparent, I hope Tony’s journey inspires you to explore all your options and plan ahead for educational and financial success. Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Don’t Retire… Graduate!, and join us next time as we continue to inspire your journey to financial freedom and purpose-driven living. [embed]https://youtu.be/bfNWDCmLEBA?si=2eJCxjwUOtfSr8mc[/embed]

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! On today’s episode, we’re excited to bring you another entry in our “Diary of a Financial Advisor” segment, where we spotlight the unique voices, journeys, and motivations of financial professionals passionate about their clients’ success. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Jillian Howell, a rising star at BFG Financial Advisors and one of the dedicated Client Service Associates who keeps everything running smoothly for nearly 800 families nationwide. Jillian joined BFG in March 2025, bringing with her a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies (with a minor in general business) from the University of Maryland, College Park. Her background sets her apart, blending strong communication skills with a desire to help others achieve financial well-being. Throughout our conversation, Jillian shared her journey from a family full of pharmacists (and her conscious decision to blaze her own path), her early experience engaging clients in the T. Rowe Price call center, and the drive to bring accuracy, care, and continual learning to her current advisory role. We dove into what it’s like to enter the nuanced world of insurance, the importance of always being a “sponge” for new knowledge, and the unique challenges of juggling countless client needs under pressure. Jillian also opened up about her “why”—drawing inspiration from a late high school mentor who guided her into the business world—and how she channels that legacy in her work every day. Outside the office, we got a glimpse of her adventurous spirit, love for skiing, and her golden retriever, Beau. If you’re curious about the people working behind the scenes to deliver exceptional service and guidance, you won’t want to miss Jillian’s perspective on finding purpose in financial planning, building client relationships, and balancing detail-oriented work with meaning. 5 Key Takeaways: Charting Your Own Path: Jillian illustrates the courage and clarity needed to pursue a career that aligns with your natural strengths and interests, even when it departs from family tradition. The Power of Being a Sponge: Whether starting out or pivoting to new areas—in Jillian’s case, insurance and annuities—success comes from humility, curiosity, and a commitment to learning from seasoned professionals. Client Service at Its Core: Jillian’s journey underscores how detail-oriented, empathetic support can make a real difference in clients’ lives—whether helping with urgent distributions or navigating the intricacies of insurance. Finding Your ‘Why’: A personal “why”—rooted in relationships, legacy, and the desire to make others proud—fuels growth and resilience, especially in a demanding service environment. Building Relationships Beyond the Screen: Even in today’s world of digital forms and remote service, Jillian demonstrates that taking time to get to know clients personally, whenever possible, adds an invaluable human touch to financial advice. Join us for an inspiring look behind the curtain, and meet the people who help families graduate into retirement with confidence and care. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with anyone who values the dedicated professionals guiding their financial futures! [embed]https://youtu.be/rR9ycYG4vUg[/embed]

Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! I’m your host, Eric Brotman, and today’s episode offers a unique peek behind the curtain at the real-life journeys of financial professionals with our “Diary of a Financial Advisor” series. Our focus is on career growth, diversity in the financial planning field, and the powerful impact of financial literacy. Joining me is Manny Essien, CFP®, a dynamic member of the BFG Financial Advisors family, whose inspiring path from college intern to financial advisor reflects not only dedication but also a commitment to helping others reach their financial goals. Manny’s journey began at Stevenson University, where his passion for finance and helping others led to a serendipitous meeting with our firm—and ultimately, to a purposeful career in financial planning. During our conversation, Manny and I dive into his professional evolution, starting from his days as a student-athlete and culminating in his recent transition to client-facing advisor. Manny candidly shares the challenges and opportunities that shaped his career, including the lack of representation and exposure to financial careers for many of his peers, particularly among student-athletes and communities underrepresented in the field. We explore why so few students from diverse backgrounds pursue finance, the value of mentorship and exposure to new opportunities, and the distinctive apprenticeship-style approach we use at BFG to prepare the next generation of advisors. Manny also reveals the importance of community, role models, and setting the highest standards for excellence without perfectionism. In addition, he shares his vision for the next chapter—serving as an advocate, steward, and trusted helper for clients and communities alike. 5 Key Takeaways: Representation Matters in Finance: Manny highlights the visible lack of diversity in financial planning, and how seeing few role models in the industry can limit a young person’s belief in the possibilities for their own career. The Power of Exposure and Mentorship: Manny’s journey was shaped by mentors and chance encounters—emphasizing that if you don’t know a career exists, you can’t prepare or aspire to it. Intentional outreach and speaking at schools can create these vital opportunities. Apprenticeship Over “Sink or Swim”: Rather than the traditional approach of pushing new advisors to sell right out of the gate, BFG’s apprenticeship model focuses on gradual learning, client exposure, and holistic development—leading to better advisors and better client outcomes. Excellence Over Perfection: Manny distinguishes himself by expecting perfect effort, not perfect performance, from himself and those around him. He believes in holding high standards while understanding that learning and growth are ongoing processes. Paying It Forward: Manny is committed to giving back—returning to his alma mater, educating others about financial literacy, and striving to be a first-call advocate and steward for his clients and community. He believes true luck and success come at the intersection of preparation and opportunity. Join us for this honest, heartfelt conversation about building a career with purpose, the critical importance of representation in finance, and the transformative effect of financial literacy. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and stay inspired as you continue your own journey toward financial freedom and lifelong learning! [embed]https://youtu.be/JYtyogFJxjE[/embed]