FIN-LYT by EWA®

In this episode of FIN LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki, Chris Pavcic, and Jamison Smith discuss five crucial things you should avoid in your financial plan and shed light on the potential risks and pitfalls associated with various financial strategies. They draw from real life experiences with clients throughout their careers as advisors.    Included in their list are Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) liken...

In this week’s episode of FIN-LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki welcomes special guest, Bryce Conway, Founder of 10x Travel. Bryce shares invaluable insights and resources for individuals and couples looking to unlock the power of travel using points and miles. Matt and Bryce dive into the following and more in this episode: • How to identify a starting point for anyone interested in free travel • How to ac...

In this week's podcast, Matt Blocki, Chris Pavcic and Jamison Smith provide crucial insights into the world of student loans, catering to both parents preparing to send their kids to college and individuals already grappling with student loan debt. They stress the importance of financial stress tests, akin to those used in home purchases, to help individuals make informed decisions about housi...

In this episode of FIN LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki and Jamison Smith dive into the critical topic of cybersecurity. As the digital landscape evolves, so do the threats to our personal and financial information. Matt and Jamison offer insights and advice on how individuals can safeguard themselves proactively and reactively in the digital age. They discuss the alarming prevalence of cyberattacks in org...

In this episode of FIN LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki and Ben Ruttenberg discuss the world of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) in college athletics. Ben, a self-professed sports enthusiast, discusses the significant changes in the college athletic landscape due to NIL and its implications for student-athletes' financial literacy. They explore the origins of NIL and why it was adopted by the NCAA in 2021 a...

In this episode, Matt Blocki and Jamison Smith discuss the top 10 tips that can impact your financial planning for 2024. With the IRS adjusting its limits to account for inflation, it's essential to stay informed about these changes and how they can affect your financial future. They discuss 401(k)s and the nuances of the 402(g) and 415(c) limits, Roth IRAs, Social Security tax changes, HSA co...

In this episode of FIN-LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki and Jamison Smith dive deep into the world of investing, discussing the common struggles individuals face when deciding when and how to put their cash into the stock market. They address the top three objections people have when considering investing their cash, including concerns about high valuations and waiting for market drops. The hosts also expl...

In this episode of FIN-LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki and Jamison Smith dive into the complexities of Medicare and healthcare planning. Their discussion details everything from the basics of Medicare to considerations for healthcare before and after retirement. Discover the key differences between Medicare and Medicaid, the historical background of Medicare, and how it has evolved over the years to meet...

In this episode of FIN-LYT by EWA, Jamison Smith is joined by Kris Wong Davis, the Vice Provost for Enrollment Management and Dean of Admission at Carnegie Mellon University. Together, they dig into the intricate world of higher education, providing valuable insights and advice for students and parents embarking on the college journey. Kris Wong Davis sheds light on the pivotal role of her office...

In this episode of FIN-LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki and Jamison Smith demystify the world of equity compensation and simplify this complex and valuable component of compensation packages. They define equity compensation as non-cash benefits offered to employees, typically in the form of ownership in the company. Whether it's stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), or employee stock purchase p...

In this episode of FIN-LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki and Ben Ruttenberg dive into the world of 401(k) retirement plans, sharing valuable insights and expert advice on crucial aspects you need to know to make the most of your retirement savings. Whether you're just starting your career or nearing retirement, this episode has something for everyone who has an employer provided plan.  Included in this...

In this episode of FIN-LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki and Jamison Smith dive into a financial strategy that often flies under the radar but has the potential to supercharge your retirement savings: the Mega Backdoor Roth. Many individuals may be familiar with traditional retirement savings options, but the Mega Backdoor Roth 401k is a less well-known yet incredibly powerful tool that can help build your...

In this episode of FIN-LYT by EWA, hosts Matt Blocki and Jamison Smith tackle five common misconceptions in financial planning that they’ve encountered in their careers. They breakdown the idea that "buying is better than renting.",  the myth that it's better to have multiple financial advisors and spread your money out, the idea that "more money equals more happiness." and...

In this episode of FIN-LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki and Jamison Smith dive into the world of fees charged by planners, advisors and agents. With a commitment to full transparency, they break down the various fees that clients could be charged and what these costs actually mean. Understanding how and what fees are being charged is crucial for making informed decisions about your financial future. Matt a...

In this episode of FIN-LYT by EWA, Jamison Smith and Ben Ruttenberg dive into the essential steps you should take when changing employers. Job transitions can be a pivotal moment, and it's crucial to make the most of the benefits available to you. Jamison and Ben share valuable insights on what you should consider to ensure a seamless transition. From understanding your current benefits packag...

In this episode of FIN LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki answers the pressing question that often keeps investors awake at night: "How do I know if my advisor has me in a good portfolio?" Throughout this podcast Matt discusses: • EWA’s portfolio construction process • The crucial elements of a well-diversified portfolio- Asset allocation and diversification • Red flags to watch out for • Strategies to evalu...

In this episode of FIN-LYT by EWA we are addressing a crucial topic for many of our clients: why physicians (and high income earners) should invest time in understanding and negotiating their employment contracts. The years of dedication and financial investment it takes to become a physician uniquely prepares individuals for their career but does not train them in contract negotiation. The financ...

In this episode of FIN-LYT by EWA our team explores the world of international investments and answer the common question, “Should I still be investing in international stocks?” Matt Blocki, Ben Ruttenberg, and Nick Stonesifer make the case for the importance of international investments in proper asset allocation, diversification, and achieving the best risk-adjusted returns for long-term investo...

In this episode of FIN-LYT by EWA,  Matt Blocki, Ben Ruttenberg, and Chris Pavcic dive into the world of tax strategies that every savvy business owner needs to know. Taxes can be a daunting aspect of running a business, but with the right knowledge, they can also become a powerful tool to unlock incredible financial advantages. This episode sheds light on lesser-known but highly effective tax str...

In this episode of FIN-LYT by EWA, lead advisors Jamison Smith and Chris Pavcic tackle the topic of college planning. College planning is often a high priority for parents, second only to retirement funding. It is essential to select the optimal savings accounts based on individual goals including 529 plans, Roth IRAs, and more. Beyond the financial aspects, Jamison and Chris emphasize the importa...

This week on FIN-LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki and Jamison Smith discuss Social Security and its pivotal role in retirement planning. This episode is designed to cut through the noise and provide you with clear, unbiased guidance on when to take your Social Security benefits, how it can influence your overall retirement strategy, and how it aligns with the EWA’s philosophies. Navigating the complexities...

Have you been approached by a family member, friend, or colleague about a real estate investment? Before you make a commitment to a real estate investment, it’s important to understand what tax benefits are available and if it’s the right fit for your financial goals. EWA recommends looking at every investment opportunity from 3 lenses:  1. Will this give me peace of mind? 2. Will this save me tim...

In this episode of FIN-LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki is joined by Bryan Liposky, CEO and Founder of Lifestyle Marketing in Pittsburgh, PA. Bryan takes us on his personal journey of entrepreneurship and reveals the pivotal moments and challenges that shaped his path to success. Bryan believes that differentiating yourself in the business world is rooted in authenticity and the ability to create genuine c...

1. Direct Indexing Q and A  (00:12) 2. EWA Portfolio Updates (11:46)   3. EWA Firm  Initiatives (19:57) 4. Quarter 2 Recap  (26:10) 5. Looking Ahead to Quarter 3 (33:25) 6. Interest Rates Q and A (42:

In this episode of FIN-LYT by EWA, Matt Blocki and Jamison Smith dive into the universe of annuities. They explore which types have potential benefits (fixed income annuities) and why most (indexed and variable) do not make sense most of the time as they unravel the high (and sometimes hidden) embedded costs. They also shed light on all of the other possible downfalls.  This podcast will serve as...