Smart Start Podcast Presented by The Equitable Bank

On this episode of the Smart Start Podcast , we explore the realities shaping Wisconsin’s housing market in 2026 as Mike Cottrell is joined by returning guest Marcus Auerbach, owner of On Point Realty Group. In this episode, they cover: Low inventory & ongoing housing shortage “Golden handcuffs” keeping homeowners in place First-time buyer affordability challenges Pricing & competition in...

In today’s fast-moving real estate market, winning an offer goes far beyond price — it comes down to preparation, strategy, and surrounding yourself with the right experts. In this episode of The Smart Start Podcast , host Tom Sattler sits down with Suzanne Powers and Gretchen Keating of Powers Realty Group, along with Gary Rieboldt, Senior Lender at The Equitable Bank, to break down what it reall...

In this episode of The Smart Start Podcast , we sit down with mortgage experts Tom Toepfer and Gary Reiboldt from The Equitable Bank for a thoughtful discussion about today’s home lending landscape.  Insights from this episode include: Navigating Today’s Mortgage Market How to Remove Stress from the Homebuying Process What Makes Equitable Bank Stand Out for Home Loans Top Mortgage Tip for First-Ti...

Community banking isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people, relationships, and being there through every milestone. In this episode of the Smart Start Podcast, host Michelle Ward turns the tables and interviews Tom Sattler, President & CEO of The Equitable Bank, for an inside look at what community banking truly means. Tom explains how staying locally focused allows the bank to make decision...

In this episode of The Smart Start Podcast, Tom Sattler is joined by Marcus Auerbach—Realtor, investor, and advocate for community-focused development—to explore how real estate can be a powerful tool for building both financial stability and stronger neighborhoods. Marcus walks through his own path in real estate investing and shares practical lessons, strategies, and mindset shifts that have hel...

In this episode, we dive deep into the issue of check fraud, one of the fastest-growing financial scams affecting individuals and families today. As fraud schemes evolve, it's crucial to stay informed and take the right steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. We're joined by Scott Birrenkott, Director of Legal Affairs at the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA), who shares his expe...

On this episode of The Smart Start Podcast, Attorney Doug Knoff of Knoff Law LLC joins us to break down why estate planning matters at every age. From healthcare directives for college-aged children to organizing plans for growing families and aging parents, Doug offers clear, practical guidance to help you stay ahead of life’s unknowns.  No matter where you are in life — supporting your kids, car...

Join us as we delve into the world of senior living with Bruce Nemovitz, a seasoned Senior Real Estate Specialist, and later, Courtney and Derek from Assisted Living Advocates. Bruce shares invaluable insights gathered directly from seniors, exploring their concerns and decision-making processes when transitioning to new living arrangements. Discover the factors influencing seniors' decisions...

Join us on the Smart Start Podcast presented by The Equitable Bank as we delve into the world of financial education and homeownership with two inspiring nonprofit leaders. First up is Cassie Krause, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Banker’s Foundation. Discover when and how kids should start learning about financial literacy, explore the Foundation's educational tools, and understand the...

Join us in our latest episode, “Starting on the Right Foot: A Guide to Building Financial Foundations.” In the second part of our episode, we introduce you to John Henningfield, Investment Executive for Equitable Investment Center. John will walk you through practical, beginner-friendly strategies to simplify the basics of investing, ensuring you're well-prepared to navigate the world of fina...

Part One: BankOn Milwaukee's Financial Foundations Join us in our latest episode, "Starting on the Right Foot: A Guide to Building Financial Foundations," as we explore BankOn Milwaukee's vital contributions to the city. Discover a wealth of resources for the community and delve into their seamless collaborations with local groups and financial institutions. We'll also she...

In this episode of the Smart Start Podcast presented by The Equitable Bank, we delve into the inspiring stories of two local businesses—an innovative boutique advertising agency, Z2Marketing, and a family-run printing company, Wisconsin Legal Blank. Join us as we uncover their humble beginnings, the challenges they faced along the way, and the secrets behind their remarkable success today. Discove...

In this episode, the Smart Start Podcast dives into the complexity of simultaneously buying and selling a home in the current competitive market. Join our panel of experts, featuring a seasoned realtor from RE/MAX Lakeside and a knowledgeable home inspector from Good Land Inspection. Learn from experienced loan officers at The Equitable Bank about tailored home financing options. Gain valuable str...

The Smart Start Podcast by The Equitable Bank is a great resource for those looking to navigate the home buying process with confidence and learn about smart financing ideas. In this inaugural episode, "Starting Strong: A Beginner's Guide to Buying Your First Home", host Tom Sattler discusses the importance of community banking and its role in making the home buying process smoother...