Category: Financial Planning
The Importance of Setting Insurance Goals with Eileen Shovlin – Part 1 (Ep. 31)

The Importance of Setting Insurance Goals with Eileen Shovlin – Part 1 (Ep. 31)

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What if a single unexpected moment reshaped your entire financial future?

In this episode, host Jim Sumpter, CFP®, sits down with Eileen Shovlin, Director of Business Development at Crump Life Insurance, to explore the deeply personal journey that led her to become an advocate for smart, values-based insurance planning. 

From a life-altering car accident at 27 to a health crisis at 31 that made her uninsurable, Eileen shares the lessons that shaped her purpose and how insurance gave her peace of mind, financial flexibility, and legacy options when she needed them most.

Here’s what you can expect from this release:

  • Term vs. permanent life insurance explained in plain English
  • How to protect your insurability before it’s too late
  • Using life insurance for tax-free college or long-term care planning
  • Why a flexible, reviewed plan creates real-life freedom
  • And more!

Connect with Jim Sumpter: 

Connect with Eileen Shovlin:

About Our Guest: 

Eileen Shovlin joined Crump Life Insurance Services in 2016 and currently serves as Director, Business Development. She is responsible for forging relationships with fee-only and fee-based RIAs, broker-dealers, banks, employee benefits firms, and large P&C agencies for Crump sales channels nationwide.

Eileen understands that a financial professional’s role is to remove financial anxiety for their clients and solve for uncertainty. She collaborates on the right “go to market” approach to deliver the strongest results for the risk management firms she works with. She believes the true measure of worth is her ability to help high-end financial and insurance professionals build a more profitable business by creating better offerings for their clients, developing stronger retention strategies, and providing additional sources of revenue.

Eileen has over 28 years of experience in both the insurance industry as a regional vice president, brokerage sales director, and marketing director. She is a dedicated salesperson with a reputation for consummate professionalism and exemplary ethics.

Eileen lives outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with her Goldendoodle, Piper, and Bernedoodle, Shanti. She enjoys spending time with her grown son, Brendan, and staying active outdoors, hiking in the PA mountains or by Lake Champlain in Burlington, VT. She is passionate about helping families with special needs children and has served on the board of the Kelly Dolan Memorial Fund in Ft. Washington, PA for over 15 years.

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What Rental Owners Get Wrong About Depreciation (Ep. 30)

What Rental Owners Get Wrong About Depreciation (Ep. 30)

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Depreciation can be one of the most misunderstood aspects of owning a business or rental property, and mishandling it can lead to IRS headaches, audit risk, or unexpected capital gains. 

In this episode, Jim Sumpter, CFP®, breaks down how depreciation really works, including how it’s calculated, what qualifies, and what happens if you skip it.

Whether you’re renting out a home, replacing a roof, or writing off new gear, understanding the depreciation timeline is critical. Jim also covers recapture rules, Section 179, bonus depreciation, and how your decisions today could impact what you owe tomorrow.

Here’s what else you can expect from the episode:

  • The depreciation rules for roofs, carpets, A/C units, and sheds
  • How Airbnb properties might fall under a different timeline
  • Recapture explained: what you’ll owe if you sell early
  • Why a tax planning meeting before year-end can save you thousands
  • And more!

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How Women Are Reshaping the Future of Financial Management With Jillian Berry – Part 2 (Ep. 28)

How Women Are Reshaping the Future of Financial Management With Jillian Berry – Part 2 (Ep. 28)

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What’s the puzzle of financial empowerment for women? 

Unpack the generational shift in wealth with Jim Sumpter and guest Jillian Berry in part two of the Financial Puzzle Playbook. Discover how women are becoming major financial decision-makers and what it means for the future. From understanding the impact of social media on financial literacy among Gen Z to addressing the unique challenges of the sandwich generation, we delve into strategies for achieving financial goals across all ages.

Jim and Jillian dive into:

  • The upcoming wealth transfer across generations and its impact on women [00:02:51]
  • The importance of financial literacy for older generations becoming primary decision-makers [00:03:40]
  • How technology and social media influence financial decisions among younger generations [00:06:47]
  • Setting meaningful financial goals at every life stage [00:23:03]

Tune in to connect the pieces of your financial puzzle, empower your financial journey, and embrace lifelong learning.

Resources:

Connect with Jim Sumpter: 

Connect with Jillian Berry:

About Jillian Berry: 

Jillian Berry is the Senior Director of StrongHer Money at RFG Advisory, where she leads efforts to empower women to take control of their financial future. She focuses on providing educational resources, personalized investment strategies, and networking opportunities to help women navigate the financial landscape with confidence. Jillian is passionate about promoting equity in the financial industry and increasing women’s influence in global financial decisions.

With a strong background in leadership and management, Jillian has played a pivotal role in evolving StrongHer Money into a comprehensive platform that supports both women and financial advisors. She is recognized for her strategic vision, commitment to financial inclusion, and ability to inspire others to transform the financial industry for women.

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How Women Are Reshaping the Future of Financial Management With Jillian Berry – Part 1 (Ep. 27)

How Women Are Reshaping the Future of Financial Management With Jillian Berry – Part 1 (Ep. 27)

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What’s driving the financial power shift towards women, and how will it impact the future of wealth management? 

Join us on the Financial Puzzle Playbook as Jim Sumpter explores this transformative trend with Jillian Berry, the Senior Director of StrongHer Money. They delve into the upcoming $104 trillion wealth transfer across generations and highlight the pivotal role women will play in reshaping financial landscapes. With insights into social investing, philanthropy, and the unique challenges women face, this episode also offers practical advice on handling life transitions.

Jim and Jillian discuss:

  • The projected shift in wealth control to women and its societal impacts [00:02:17]
  • Differences in investment perspectives between genders and the social impact of women’s financial decisions [00:04:06]
  • The rise of women’s financial literacy, fueled by technology and education [00:13:39]
  • The complexities faced by women in the “sandwich generation,” balancing family and work pressures [00:19:50]

Tune in to explore how CMC Financial plans to empower female investors through strategic advisory and community-focused solutions.

Resources:

Connect with Jim Sumpter: 

Connect with Jillian Berry:

About Jillian Berry: 

Jillian Berry is the Senior Director of StrongHer Money at RFG Advisory, where she leads efforts to empower women to take control of their financial future. She focuses on providing educational resources, personalized investment strategies, and networking opportunities to help women navigate the financial landscape with confidence. Jillian is passionate about promoting equity in the financial industry and increasing women’s influence in global financial decisions.

With a strong background in leadership and management, Jillian has played a pivotal role in evolving StrongHer Money into a comprehensive platform that supports both women and financial advisors. She is recognized for her strategic vision, commitment to financial inclusion, and ability to inspire others to transform the financial industry for women.

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Behavioral Economics in Investing: Mastering Your Financial Mindset with Matt Sommer (Ep. 26)

Behavioral Economics in Investing: Mastering Your Financial Mindset with Matt Sommer (Ep. 26)

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What happens when the stock market takes a wild ride? 

Join Jim Sumpter and special guest Matt Sommer,  a seasoned strategist with Janus Henderson Investors, as they unpack market volatility, exploring how emotions and mindsets impact financial decisions and investments.

Listen as they dive into the complexities of investments with a focus on retirement planning and the emotional nuances that come with market fluctuations. Matt shares his insights into how investors can better understand and navigate the ups and downs without losing sight of their long-term goals.

Key Topics Discussed:

  • Understanding Market Indices: Discover the relevance of the S&P 500 and why it might not be the only index to watch. (00:06:05) 
  • Investment Strategies Across Life Stages: How market volatility affects different life stages from wealth accumulation to distribution. (00:12:37) 
  • Behavioral Economics and Decision Making: Explore how the brain’s decision-making processes influence investing habits. (00:18:58) 
  • The Importance of Comprehensive Financial Planning: Comprehensive planning goes beyond stocks and bonds. (00:27:28)

Resources:

Connect with Jim Sumpter: 

Connect with Matt Sommer: 

About  Matt Sommer: 

Matt Sommer is Head of the Specialist Consulting Group at Janus Henderson Investors. His team is composed of subject matter experts in retirement planning, wealth advisory, practice management, and investment strategy. Together, they deliver practical insights and actionable guidance that advisors can apply to grow their businesses and better serve their clients.

Before stepping into this leadership role in 2023, Matt served as Head of Defined Contribution and Wealth Advisor Services at Janus Henderson. He was also the firm’s lead researcher in behavioral finance and served as a wealth strategist.

Before joining Janus in 2010, Matt spent 17 years at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management and its predecessor firms, Citi Global Wealth Management and Smith Barney, where he held leadership positions, including Director of Financial Planning and Director of Retirement Planning.

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Financial Planning for Couples: Merging Lives and Finances with Amanda Callahan (Ep. 25)

Financial Planning for Couples: Merging Lives and Finances with Amanda Callahan (Ep. 25)

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What happens when two independent financial worlds come together? 

Today on The Financial Puzzle Playbook, Jim Sumpter revisits the six key areas of financial planning—cash flow, retirement, insurance, investments, income, taxes, and estate planning with guest Amanda Callahan, who offers a fresh perspective on merging as a couple.

Listen as Jim and Amanda navigate the complexities of merging two independent lives, going beyond logistics to explore the emotional side of money. They highlight the importance of open communication, compromise, and structuring financial responsibilities in a way that supports both partners’ independence and shared goals.

Gain insight and strategies to help you and your partner align your goals, values, and dreams for the future. 

  • Combining households: Tackling the tricky negotiations over whose furniture fits best and whose home is kept. (00:04:10) 
  • Financial Contributions: Navigating the logistics of separate accounts and shared expenses. (00:06:47) 
  • Protecting the Future: Conversations around Jonathan’s challenging profession and planning for worst-case scenarios. (00:09:18) 
  • Planning for Aging Parents: Balancing dreams of future investments while considering the care needed for older family members. (00:17:23)
  • Prenuptial Agreements: The evolving conversation about removing the stigma around prenups. (00:24:54)

Resources:

Connect with Jim Sumpter: 

Connect with Amanda Callahan:

About Amanda Callahan: 

Amanda Callahan is the advisor-facing event coordinator at RFG Advisory, bringing years of experience in event planning to her role. She began her career in wedding planning and venue management, drawn to the industry by her passion for creating personal, meaningful experiences for clients. After years of coordinating weddings, she transitioned into the corporate world, where she has spent nearly 15 years honing her skills in event management. Amanda’s expertise spans engagements, rehearsal dinners, weddings, and a variety of other events, making her a seasoned professional in crafting unforgettable occasions.

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The Financial Puzzle Playbook is ONE! (Ep. 24)

The Financial Puzzle Playbook is ONE! (Ep. 24)

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What does a year of piecing together financial puzzles look like? 

Join Jim Sumpter as he marks a milestone—the anniversary of The Financial Puzzle Playbook—by walking us through a year of engaging conversations and relatable insights. Featured guests have contributed rich stories across various financial topics like the emotional impact of investments, essential estate planning, and navigating milestones like weddings with a financial lens. From the emotional side of money management to practical advice on navigating market changes, this episode offers a holistic view on lifetime financial planning, ensuring you’re well-armed for the future.

Jim Sumpter recaps:

  • [00:01:05] The concept of crafting financial plans as puzzles, the importance of cash flow, and investment strategy.
  • [00:05:52] Diversifying investment portfolios and understanding financial products.
  • [00:09:09] Insightful take on life changes and financial implications, from personal anecdotes to expert guests.
  • [00:18:10] The significance of estate planning and how life events can alter financial strategies.

Resources:

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Event Planning and Financial Goals: A Perfect Match (Ep. 23)

Event Planning and Financial Goals: A Perfect Match (Ep. 23)

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What makes certain celebrations unforgettable? 

Dive into the world of events with Jim Sumpter and guest Amanda Callahan to unravel effective planning for life’s milestone moments. Whether it’s a 50th anniversary, a baby shower, or a company holiday bash, understanding the ‘why’ behind the ‘what’ is crucial for hosts and attendees.

Jim and Amanda tackle how to set the scene for memorable experiences. They cover everything from the importance of music and food, to the evolving trends in baby showers and gender reveals. They also explore how charities can make fundraising events stand out in a competitive space. Get an inside look at what’s driving trends in milestone celebrations and how these events create lasting impressions. 

The most important topics are:

  • (00:02:45) Understanding Milestone Events 
  • (00:06:11) Crafting the Perfect Experience 
  • (00:09:09) Evolution of Baby Showers and Gender Reveals 
  • (00:16:07) Charity Events: Standing Out from the Crowd 
  • (00:18:39) Pressure to Innovate in Event Planning 
  • (00:22:22) Creating Memorable Client Engagement 
  • (00:23:06) The Why Behind Retirement Parties 

Resource:

Connect with Jim Sumpter: 

Connect with Amanda Callahan:

About Amanda Callahan: 

Amanda Callahan is the advisor-facing event coordinator at RFG Advisory, bringing years of experience in event planning to her role. She began her career in wedding planning and venue management, drawn to the industry by her passion for creating personal, meaningful experiences for clients. After years of coordinating weddings, she transitioned into the corporate world, where she has spent nearly 15 years honing her skills in event management. Amanda’s expertise spans engagements, rehearsal dinners, weddings, and a variety of other events, making her a seasoned professional in crafting unforgettable occasions.

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Plan Your Dream Event Without Breaking the Bank: Tips from Amanda Callahan (Ep. 22)

Plan Your Dream Event Without Breaking the Bank: Tips from Amanda Callahan (Ep. 22)

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What unexpected factors should you consider when planning a wedding budget?

Jim Sumpter and Amanda Callahan dive into the intricacies of event planning, focusing on cash flow and unforgettable experiences. Amanda, with her extensive background in wedding planning, shares insider tips on budgets, venues, and the importance of being prepared for the unexpected, like weather contingencies. Whether you’re a parent saving for a future wedding or someone with upcoming nuptials, this episode provides insights into creating memorable events without financial strain.

Amanda and Jim discuss the following:

  • (03:40) Establishing a budget and prioritizing spending
  • (05:27) Venue selection and booking timelines
  • (09:19) The significance of hiring the right photographers and videographers
  • (23:34) The growing trend of engagement parties and social media’s role
  • And more

Connect with Jim Sumpter: 

Connect with Amanda Callahan:

About our Amanda Callahan: 

Amanda Callahan is the advisor-facing event coordinator at RFG Advisory, bringing years of experience in event planning to her role. She began her career in wedding planning and venue management, drawn to the industry by her passion for creating personal, meaningful experiences for clients. After years of coordinating weddings, she transitioned into the corporate world, where she has spent nearly 15 years honing her skills in event management. Amanda’s expertise spans engagements, rehearsal dinners, weddings, and a variety of other events, making her a seasoned professional in crafting unforgettable occasions.

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