Financial Confidence Podcast

The early years of retirement matter more than most people realize—and the mistakes made during this window can be difficult to reverse. In this episode of the Financial Confidence Podcast , Mike Schuster breaks down four of the most common mistakes people make early in retirement —and what you can do to avoid them. From claiming Social Security too early to underestimating healthcare costs, these...

This week on The Financial Confidence Podcast , Mike sits down with Herson Castaneda, Financial Advisor and Director of Business Retirement Plans at Schuster Anderson Wealth Advisors, for a thoughtful conversation about artificial intelligence and its limitations through the lens of financial planning. Together, they explore where AI can be useful, where it falls short, and why human guidance stil...

In this episode of The Financial Confidence Podcast , Mike is joined by John Schonberg CFA® , Chief Investment Officer and Portfolio Manager at Stonebridge Capital Advisors , for a grounded discussion on today’s economic landscape. They explore AI investing, the rising energy demands supporting AI growth, and how interest rates and government spending factor into long‑term market positioning. The...

Market volatility can feel unsettling—but it can also create opportunity. In this episode of the Financial Confidence Podcast , Cambridge Investment Research, Inc. Assistant Vice President of Client Solutions Matthew Guba joins Mike in conversation to unpack the emotional reality of market swings, why volatility matters, and how thoughtful planning can play a role during uncertain times. They expl...

In this week’s episode of the Financial Confidence Podcast, Mike sits down once again with Kevin Denney , Police Chief of the Grand Island Police Department, to talk about a growing concern impacting individuals, families, and communities: AI‑driven fraud. Chief Denney shares how artificial intelligence has evolved over the past year, how criminals are using it to increase both the volume and qual...

In this week’s episode of the Financial Confidence Podcast, Mike sits down with a longtime friend and Grand Island–based Independent Mental Health Practitioner and Professional Counselor, Rick Huls , for a thoughtful conversation about what it truly means to retire to something, not just from something. As many people transition out of the workforce and into retirement, this episode invites listen...

This episode marks an important transition as we officially step into our new chapter as the Financial Confidence Podcast —where every conversation is designed to help you feel more secure, informed, and confident in your financial decisions. Host, Mike Schuster breaks down tax strategy planning in a clear, practical way, focusing on how smart, forward-looking tax decisions can protect your income...

What happens to your business when you’re ready to step away or when the unexpected happens? In this episode of The SA Update , Mike sits down with Scott Snider , President of the Exit Planning Institute (EPI) , to explore why so many business owners go to market unprepared and how the absence of a clear contingency plan can significantly diminish business value. Together, they break down the bigg...

This week on The SA Update , Mike sits down for an inspiring conversation with Venus King, Central Community College Faculty Instructor and Women’s Performance Coach. Together, they dive deep into the world of women and finances, tackling the tough but crucial conversations around women and money. Tune in for practical insights, real examples, and strategies designed to help you navigate financial...

This week on The SA Update , Mike sits down with Creighton University economics professor Dr. Ernie Goss to examine the state of rural economies as they navigate shifting geological conditions and an evolving political landscape.   0:40 Dr. Goss Introduction  2:10 Tariffs and the Effects of Rural Manufacturers and Farmers  4:20 Will Recent Tariffs in Brazil Level the Playing Field for American Pro...

In this week’s episode of The SA Update , Mike sits down with Maria Katsileros of Aristotle Capital Boston LLC to explore the economic outlook for 2026. Together, they discuss how AI-driven trends are influencing GDP growth, reshaping the labor market, and redefining business strategies for the year ahead. This episode highlights the key forces that will impact markets and organizations as we move...

In this week’s episode of The SA Update, Mike talks to Fritz Folts from 3EDGE Asset Management to unpack why gold remains a strategic overweight, key investment themes for 2026, and the risks that keep experts up at night. Plus, gain clarity on the Yen carry trade, crypto market concerns, and Fritz’s top resources for staying ahead. Disclosure : This content is provided for educational purposes on...

As 2025 comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to review key financial deadlines and set intentions for the year ahead. In this episode, Mike chats with Paige Wood to walk through important year-end reminders, including charitable giving deadlines, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), and Qualified Charitable Distributions. They also dive into what collaboration looks like at Schuster Anderson...

From Airports to Adventures: Planning Year-End Travel with Purpose | SA Update | Episode 23 Ready to make your holiday travel stress-free?  In this episode, Mike sits down with expert travel agent Dawn Taylor to share insider tips—from breezing through airports and packing like a pro to understanding travel insurance so you’re always covered. If you’re planning a trip this season, this is the ulti...

In this insightful continuation, Bryce Gill and Mike dive deeper into the evolving financial landscape across generations. From shifting spending habits to the challenges of homeownership and the growing housing crisis facing younger demographics, this episode offers a data-driven and thoughtful exploration of the economic forces shaping our future.  0:43 Spending of Different Generational Demogra...

In this episode, Mike sits down with economist Bryce Gill to unpack how shifting generational demographics, historically low global birth rates, and the demographic transition model are reshaping the economy.  Stay tuned for Part 2—where they dig even deeper into spending habits and the housing market. Bryce connects the dots between population shifts and the forces driving our financial future. 0...

Mike sits down with Mary Berlie from the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce and Grand Island Economic Development Corporation to discuss the housing condition in the Grand Island area.  Mary discusses the comprehensive housing study they conduct to provide insights into the current state of housing in Grand Island and what steps we should take moving forward. This study will play a crucial role in g...

In the powerful conclusion to this two-part series, Mike and Mary Santin uncover the lesser-known realities of Medicare that every listener should know. From the complexities of prior authorizations to the costly consequences of incorrect enrollment, they break down what’s often overlooked or misunderstood. Plus, they explore a new federal bill that could reshape the future of Medicare. Whether yo...

In this episode, Mike and Mary dive into some of the most common myths and misunderstandings surrounding Medicare. From enrollment misconceptions to coverage confusion, they break it all down in a clear, relatable way—so you can feel more confident navigating your healthcare options. Stay tuned for Part 2, where Mike and Mary will uncover the hidden truths and secrets of Medicare.  0:35 Mary Intro...

Join Mike and Grand Island Police Chief Kevin Denney for an important conversation on cybersecurity. Learn how to protect yourself from online scams and stay informed on this rapidly evolving topic. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your digital safety and awareness. 0:39 – Introduction 1:47 – Key deterrent strategies to protect their information  2:55 – Dual Authentication 3:51 – Who is most...

 Mike sits down with James Casler from Lord Abbett to break down how interest rates shape our daily lives. From the 10-year Treasury rate’s ripple effects on car loans and credit cards to the Federal Reserve’s role in calming inflation, they unpack the forces behind rising (and falling) rates. Plus, we explore why some investors turn to bonds when the market gets uncertain.  0:00 Introduction 0:28...

Mike is joined by special guest Kaylee Powell, who shares her inspiring journey through her time at Concordia. From her involvement on the dance team to competing with the business leadership team, Kaylee reflects on how these experiences shaped her college life and career path. 0:00 Introduction  0:46 Kaylee’s Year at Concordia  1:15 Internship Impact while at college 2:36 Experience at Essential...

In this episode, Mike sits down with Conner Riley to talk about his journey from intern to full-time team member at Schuster Anderson. Conner shares insights from his time at Hastings College, reflects on the skills he’s developed, and gives a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s been like transitioning into his new role.  0:00 Introduction  0:35 Welcome Conner  1:04 Conner’s new role   1:26 Hastin...

Mike and Shad Kunkle break down the do’s and don’ts of Zoom meetings - summer style. From camera use and background choices to multitasking and a few Zoom horror stories, they cover it all in under 10 minutes. You don’t want to miss this episode!  0:00 – Introduction  1:29 – Camera or No Camera?  2:50 – Backgrounds That Work (and Don’t)  4:03 – Multitasking on Zoom: Yay or Nay?  5:20 – Zoom Horror...

Join Mike as he chats with Schuster Anderson Marketing Intern, Lauren Buscher. They discuss Lauren’s journey at Hastings College, share tips for making the most of an internship, and explore the growing importance of video and audio in marketing. Discover more about Lauren and her experiences! 0:00 Introduction  0:52 About Lauren 1:20 Hastings College 2:14 Impacts of the Internship 3:30 Video and...