Up Your Assets

HOLD ON WITH BOTH HANDS…In this cliff hanger of an episode…join the eloquent Jerome Myers and host Ray Ferarra while they study the emotional and psychological challenges business founders face, and how to plan for a successful transition that aligns with personal purpose and fulfillment. Most founders assume that “cashing out” their Company or Business means the hard part is over — but in reality...

Did you know that approximately 25% of Adults in the US are child-free, yet little is tailored for those in terms of Estate Planning...In this episode, Ray Ferrara interviews Dr. Jay Zigmont about estate planning for child-free couples, a niche - yet increasingly relevant area. Regardless of if you do or don't have kids, this population segment will have an impact on you and your community.  E...

When markets soar or plunge, it’s natural to want to time your moves perfectly. But what if the real secret to lasting wealth isn’t timing, but discipline? In this episode, Ray and Kara Murphy, CIO of Kestra Investment Management, dispel some common misconceptions around market timing, strategies, and the hype surrounding AI and crypto—helping you navigate today’s volatile landscape with confidenc...

In this brief but bold episode, Ray shares several essential strategies for preserving and growing your wealth!  It is so important to remain vigilant and keep focused on risk management, proper tax strategies, liquidity when needed and organized estate planning.  Take a listen and learn some quick tips on how to keep your wealth intact! Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

This episode features some great perspective from the podcast host Ray Ferrara.  Where he explores the strategic considerations of converting traditional IRAs to Roth IRAs, including benefits, drawbacks, and timing tips to optimize retirement planning.  Ray does not have a "Crystal Ball" and this is not a prognostication...however he provides some poignant and thought-provoking concepts...

Most people don’t fully understand how life insurance really works or quite possibly are overwhelmed by all the options available to them. In this eye-opening episode Ray teams up with Barry Flagg, a lifelong innovator in the insurance industry who’s revolutionized how consumers and advisors understand policy costs.   If you’ve ever wondered whether your life insurance policy is working for you or...

Join Ray as he hosts renowned family law expert Ky Koch, a Florida attorney with decades of experience in divorce and collaborative law. In this compelling discussion about destiny... Learn what to do when preparing to marry, to the innovative process of collaborative divorce, Ky and Ray share insights that could change how you approach one of life's most challenging events. You'll learn w...

In this episode, Ray discusses essential strategies for securing personal data with expert Kenneth Washington, who is the Chief Information Officer at the Tampa Port Authority. They cover a range of topics that are a little more "TECH" related to the Up Your Assets Podcast... including the importance of regular software updates, creating strong passwords, the necessity of multi-factor au...

In this episode of the Up Your Assets podcast, Ray and James A. Combs, Jr. , the President and CEO of National Advisors Trust Company discuss the intricacies of legacy planning and the role of trust companies in estate planning. They explore the advantages of using a corporate trustee, the benefits of the directed trust model and the importance of professional expertise in managing trusts. Jim sha...

In this episode of the Up Your Assets podcast, Ray Ferrara is joined by estate planning attorney Nick Grimaudo!  The two discuss recent changes in estate planning, which made estate tax rules permanent...  Ever wondered what $15 million per person means for you? Or how the new laws actually help you keep more of your wealth? Here's the truth: with the One Big Beautiful Bill , your estate exemp...

In this episode, Ray Ferrara shares his predictions for 2026 and reflects on how difficult it is to forecast the future in such an unpredictable world. He looks at several major market themes, including a possible surge in IPO activity with nearly 500 companies potentially going public and raising over 100 billion dollars, helped by the expected passage of the Invest Act. Ray also talks about the...

In this "Part 2" episode with guest Jon Brethauer  CFP®, AIF®, CPFA, MBA and Ray go further into the intricacies of managing retirement plans from a participant's perspective. They cover essential topics such as understanding eligibility, maximizing employer contributions and the differences between traditional and Roth contributions.  The conversation emphasizes the significance of...

In this episode of Up Your Assets, host Ray Ferrara CFP® and guest Jon Brethauer CFP®, AIF®, CPFA, MBA discuss the complexities of being a retirement plan sponsor. This is part 1 of a 2 part series, where they delve into fiduciary responsibilities, the importance of hiring fiduciary advisors, and the various types of fiduciaries. The conversation also covers investment performance, hidden costs in...

In this podcast episode, Ray Ferrara and Jonathan Ainsley discuss the implications of increased longevity on financial planning and lifestyle. They explore how living longer requires a shift in mindset, financial strategies, and the importance of reframing aging perspectives. Jonathan introduces the Flourishing Longevity Scorecard and discusses the three revolutions affecting longevity: the revolu...

This episode is a unique conversation with Sandy Risgaard, CFP ®  and Ray Ferarra, CFP ®  where they discuss essential information regarding Social Security and retirement.  Included in the conversation is how to access benefits, the importance of having a strategy, tax implications and recent updates in the Social Security system. This great discussion emphasizes the complexity of Social Security...

In this episode of Up Your Assets, host Ray Ferrara and insurance expert Bill Askins delve into the complexities of Medicare, discussing its various parts (A, B, C, and D), the importance of understanding enrollment periods, and the differences between Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans. They emphasize the need for personalized advice and the potential pitfalls of late enrollment penalties, p...

In this unique episode Ray, provides great perspective on the major tax law changes that are here! During this educational session, he describes how the Big Beautiful Bill could have a significant impact on your retirement, investments, and estate planning.  The One Big Beautiful Bill Act brings sweeping changes to the tax code that could directly impact your income, retirement, and estate plans f...

There are several complexities that factor into retirement, adding to the conundrum is how to factor in the potential of "living longer" and what that might entail.  In this episode, Ray sits down with longtime friend and fellow CFP® Rick Kahler to contemplate these challenges and biases that affect retiring.  Over his enduring career, Rick has accumulated a vast knowledge base, professi...

Congratulations! You have made it to the conclusion of the amazing three-part series on understanding Social Security, with Ray Ferrara CFP ® and award winning author / journalist and Social Security expert Mary Beth Franklin. During Part 3, Ray and Mary Beth take a look down the road on what the future of Social Security may look like given that it is projected to run out of money in 2032... A mu...

Welcome to part two of this superb three-part series with Ray Ferrara CFP ® and award-winning author / journalist and Social Security expert Mary Beth Franklin. During this exciting and informative session, Ray and Mary Beth give some well thought out tips on how to navigate the sometimes-overwhelming process when claiming your Social Security Benefits. A must watch for anyone who wishes to learn...

In this amazing three part series, Ray Ferrara CFP ® speaks to award winning author / journalist and Social Security expert Mary Beth Franklin. During this exciting and informative session, Ray and Mary Beth roll up their sleeves and have a detailed discussion about all things Social Security! A must watch for anyone who wishes to learn more about the complex system that will affect all of us as A...

In this episode, Ray explores the surprising truth when it comes to the future of Women and Wealth Management with Dr. Barb Provost. This in-depth discussion reveals the amazing trends in financial services and the opportunity that exists. You won’t want to miss the insightful conversation on how to help current and future generations control the “Purse Strings”. Acknowledgements and Important Dis...

Ray Ferrara, CFP®, sits down with Cary Carbonaro, CFP®, MBA, Managing Wealth Advisor and Women in Wealth Ambassador for Ashton Thomas, to tackle the financial services industry's gender problem. Together, they explore how women approach money differently, the unique challenges they face—from wage gaps to longevity planning—and what women should look for when choosing a financial planner. Cary...

Ray Ferrara, CFP®, sits down with Alex Chamberlain, CMC, CSA, owner of EasyLiving, Inc, to tackle the realities of long-term care planning. They explore common misconceptions about care costs, the financial impact of extended care needs, and the importance of reaching out before crisis strikes. This conversation offers essential wisdom for anyone looking to age with dignity and financial security....

Looking to make a lasting charitable impact? Ray Ferrara, CFP®, is joined by Katrina Mason, President and CEO of Morton Plant Mease Healthcare Organization, and Patricia Wang, Executive Director of Development and Gift Planning at the University of Maryland College Park Foundation, to unravel the concept of deferred giving. Together, they explore strategic options beyond immediate cash donations,...