Ideas by Mike™

When people talk about retirement, most conversations revolve around money — but what about what comes after the paychecks stop? In our latest Ideas by Mike Podcast , we sit down with Dr. Riley Moynes , author of The Four Phases of Retirement , to unpack the emotional and psychological journey that every retiree goes through — and why so many struggle to find meaning once the “vacation” phase fade...

In this episode of the Ideas by Mike podcast, host Mike Milligan, CFP shares the journey of his financial planning firm, Ideas by Mike, and its evolution into 1.oak Financial. He discusses the tumultuous financial landscape over the past few years, the founding principles of his firm, and the importance of client-centered financial planning. Mike emphasizes the need for a unique approach to financ...

William Bengen retirement withdrawal strategies have shaped how millions plan for retirement. Known as the creator of the famous 4% Rule, Bengen now reveals new research that challenges the old standard. In this episode of the Ideas by Mike Podcast, Mike Milligan, CFP®, asks the key question: is 4% rule still safe in 2025? Bengen explains why his updated research supports a 4.7% withdrawal rate, w...

Tom Hegna retirement income strategies are some of the most researched, proven methods to retire with security, peace of mind, and lasting wealth. In this episode of the Ideas by Mike Podcast, Mike Milligan, CFP®, sits down with Tom Hegna—renowned author of Paychecks and Playchecks and Don’t Worry, Retire Happy—to uncover his formula for creating guaranteed lifetime income, reducing taxes, and pro...

In this episode, Mike Milligan discusses innovative tax planning strategies that can help individuals and businesses maximize their financial potential. He explores various tax incentives, including the Augusta Rule, advanced strategies like ‘buy, borrow, and die’, and the benefits of Donor Advised Funds and Charitable Trusts. Additionally, he delves into estate planning tools and the...

Discover how to stand out in a crowded market and attract clients even in today’s competitive business landscape. Learn proven strategies to sharpen your business vision, use AI tools for clear and powerful messaging, and build trust through video, so you become the go-to choice in your industry. Whether you’re a financial advisor, entrepreneur, or small business owner, these insights will help yo...

In this episode of Ideas by Mike, host Mike Milligan interviews Davin Michaels, a New York Times bestselling author and entrepreneur known for his innovative approach to business and life. The conversation explores Davin’s journey from the fashion industry to the music business and his successful ventures in outsourcing. They discuss the importance of living intentionally, the benefits of re...

Financial planning isn’t just about numbers; it’s about trust, connection, and understanding life’s goals. How do you create meaningful client relationships? What does it take to navigate the ups and downs of the market while remaining grounded? In this episode, Mike Milligan sits down with Christina Hill, Client Service Specialist at Ideas by Mike , to discuss her approach to making financial pla...

In this episode, Mike Milligan introduces Liz Mundey, Senior Client Services Manager at Ideas by Mike , who shares her unexpected path from massage therapist to financial services, driven by a desire to make a lasting impact. Liz discusses her motivations, how she found a home in the firm, and the importance of practical, personalized support in clients’ lives. Mike and Liz discuss: Liz&#821...

Have you ever wondered how similar healthcare and financial planning can be?  It’s all about helping people get back on their feet, whether physically or financially. In this episode, Mike Milligan chats with Barb Gleason, who transitioned from a career in healthcare to financial planning, about her experiences and insights. She shares her journey, the parallels between physical therapy and...

What’s the secret to navigating your financial future with confidence? Join Mike Milligan as he sits down with Tom Haines from Annexus to demystify fixed index annuities and their strategic role in crafting one-of-a-kind financial plans tailored for your unique retirement journey. Tom shares insights from his distinguished career, highlighting how indexing strategies can safeguard your finan...

From former college hockey player to a leading retirement specialist. Join host Mike Milligan as he sits down with team member Josef Mehall, a talented entrepreneurial spirit that is passionate about leaving things better than he found them.  With his engaging story of growth to becoming a financial expert, Josef shares how he helps clients shape their retirement dreams with personalized financial...

In this episode, Mike Milligan introduces Scotty, a dedicated team member at Ideas by Mike . Scotty shares his journey from his roots on the Ohio-West Virginia border to becoming a legacy specialist, exploring life insurance, legacy planning, and self-care strategies for life’s later stages. Join them as Scotty shares his personal story and uncovers the significance of personalized financial...

What do planning for the future and teaching financial literacy to the next generation have in common? In this unique episode, Mike Milligan welcomes January Liddell to the show. Money isn’t just about numbers; it’s about narratives. Explore how January, a dynamic financial professional, balances roles as a mother, wife, and author, while fiercely advocating for financial literacy begi...

Ever faced a mountain and thought, “I can’t do this?” This episode serves as a way to combat this thought. As the calendar turns to 2025, Mike Milligan recounts an incredible journey to Peru’s Rainbow Mountain and draws parallels to the journey of retirement planning. Learn how each individual step, supported by a trusted guide, can lead you to breathtaking highs in your fi...

What makes a team truly one of a kind? Join host Mike Milligan, a Certified Financial Planner® with over two decades of experience, as he delves into the power of individuality with team members Kelsey Vollmer and Marcus Washington. Together, they explore how their personal experiences influence their communities.  Mike, Kelsey and Marcus discuss:  The power of a supportive community (04:03) Uniqu...

How can simple actions lead to meaningful change? Mike Milligan sits down with his daughter Grace, to explore what it truly means to make an impact. Grace shares her inspiring journey from creating fly swatters out of thrift store finds to leading charitable efforts at Grace Klein Community’s food rescue mission. This discussion dives deep into personal stories, community-focused initiatives...

What makes a financial plan truly stand out? Mike Milligan explores how strategic partnerships are key to creating personalized, effective financial plans. Joined by Tiffany Saunders and Liz Mundey, they discuss how working together and embracing new ways of thinking are changing the financial planning landscape. Find out how partnerships with innovative platforms like Halo and Asset Map are makin...

Financial planning can truly change lives, not just through numbers but by making a real impact in our communities. Mike, Kaitlan, and Katie shed light on how they’re redefining financial planning through community impact. They dive into how Ideas by Mike is not only crafting unique financial plans but also investing in meaningful change from local neighborhoods to global communities.  Learn...

Are you ready to transform your financial approach and make 2025 the year you finally achieve your one-of-a-kind life goals? Engage with captivating insights into tax planning, retirement income, and the paramount importance of having a genuinely personalized financial plan. Plus, look out for an engaging revelation of how 2025 can be your groundbreaking year. Mike Milligan looks forward to helpin...

Can a legacy be more than assets?  Discover how to leave a love letter to your family… This week on Ideas by Mike , Mike Milligan, CFP®, welcomes Scott Cary, Founder of Snug, to unveil how his groundbreaking platform is transforming estate planning.  From safe document storage to AI-powered updates, Snug offers a modern, affordable approach to creating a legacy that reflects your values. Whether p...

Can your financial strategy unlock the secret to a longer, healthier life? This week on Ideas by Mike , Mike Milligan, CFP®, welcomes Heather Holmes, Founder and CEO of Lumiant, and Nicola Perry, VP of Sales at Lumiant, to explore the game-changing connection between health and wealth. Drawing from their expertise, Heather and Nicola unveil Halo , a revolutionary tool that personalizes long-term c...

Is your portfolio working toward your dreams—or just chasing the market? This week on Ideas by Mike , Mike Milligan, CFP®, sits down with Steve Osterink, CEO and Chief Investment Officer at Advisory Alpha, to explore the art and science of investment planning. Drawing from his vast experience managing $3.8 billion in assets, Steve shares practical insights on aligning your investments with your fi...

Retirement planning goes beyond numbers—it’s about building a future that aligns with your values. This week on Ideas by Mike , Mike Milligan, CFP®, and Jim Fisher unveils the value of developing a retirement income plan that remains adaptable and reliable. They cover the transition from growth to income strategies and how the Forecaster tool provides clear insights into managing potential risks,...

Taxes may be inevitable, but they don’t have to drain your wealth. Here’s how to turn them into a powerful tool for financial growth Mike Milligan, CFP® teams up with Ben Birkin from Holistiplan to reveal how this powerful software is transforming tax planning from a headache into a strategic advantage. It’s not just about lowering tax bills—it’s about turning tax strategies into a key driver of l...