Episodes

  • Are you struggling with procrastination or finding it hard to follow through on your goals? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses another in their Book Club series: Finish What You Start: The Art of Following Through, Taking Action, Executing, & Self-Discipline by Peter Hollins. The team shares their insights on how to overcome procrastination, stick with commitments, and build self-discipline — key concepts that not only apply to personal development but also to financial planning.

    In this episode, we discuss:

    Why people struggle with following through, even when they are motivated.Small changes you can make to improve your follow-through.How instant gratification impacts our ability to follow through on long-term goals.How leaders can use the principles of this book to improve execution on teams.And more!

    Whether you're looking to improve your personal productivity or make progress on long-term financial goals, this episode provides valuable takeaways for turning good intentions into lasting action.

    Resources:

    Episode Transcript & Blog | Finish What You Start: The Art of Following Through, Taking Action, Executing, & Self-Discipline | Bautis Financial Book Club | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • Should you sell, rent, or reinvest an inherited property? The right choice could impact your wealth for years to come. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Amelia Misenheimer, a real estate consultant specializing in helping individuals navigate inherited properties. Together, they discuss the challenges, opportunities, and key considerations when deciding whether to keep, sell, or reinvest inherited real estate.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    The key financial and emotional factors to consider before making decisions about inherited property.How to evaluate whether a property is a good investment, including assessing rental income, market value, and potential repairs.The differences between passive and active real estate investments—and how to determine which is right for you.The role of property managers, syndications, and self-management in real estate investing.And more!

    Tune in to gain valuable insights into making informed real estate decisions that align with your financial goals.

    Resources:

    Episode Transcript & Blog | www.ameliamisenheimer.com | Connect with Amelia Meisenheimer on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

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  • The words “IRS” and “tax debt” can strike fear into the hearts of many, but what if you had an expert guide to help you navigate the process? Whether you’re facing mounting tax debt, undergoing an audit, or just want to stay on the IRS’ good side, this episode is for you. The Agent of Wealth host Marc Bautis is joined by Stephen A. Weisberg, Founder and Lead Attorney of The W Tax Group, who has helped countless individuals and businesses resolve their tax challenges.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    What triggers tax debt and how audits can result in unexpected liabilities.The difference between CPAs and tax attorneys when it comes to IRS representation.Proactive steps you can take to prevent tax problems before they arise.How IRS penalties and interest rates work—and why failing to file can be costly.And more!

    Resources:

    Episode Transcript & Blog | Weisberg.tax | wtaxattorney.com/stephen-weisberg/ | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 248-971-0885 | Stephen A. Weisberg on LinkedIn | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • Did you know that car washes in the United States generate over $15 billion in revenue annually? Yet, most investors overlook them as a serious wealth-building opportunity. Today, we’re diving into why car washes are one of the most underrated investments – and how guest Kriss Berg is using them to generate passive income, scale his portfolio, and slash his taxes.

    In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Kriss Berg, a serial entrepreneur who made a name for himself in the business world with e-commerce and newsletter ventures before diving into the car wash industry. Kriss, formerly known as “The Car Wash Guy” on X, shares how he turned car washes into a wealth-building machine – leveraging undervalued business, operational improvements, and tax advantages to scale car wash investments.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    Why car washes are an overlooked but profitable business investment.How Kriss scaled from one to five car washes using a repeatable system.The massive tax advantages that come with owning a car wash.Key factors to consider when buying and scaling a car wash business.What makes a great car wash location – and the pitfalls to avoid.And more!

    Resources:

    Episode Transcript & Blog | TaxFreeCashCow.com | @KrissBergTweets | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Sara Ecklein, Founder of Trust & Honor and host of The Legacy of Love podcast. With over a decade of experience in fiduciary services, Sara specializes in trust administration, special needs trusts, and guiding families through end-of-life planning. Together, they discuss how proactive estate planning can prevent common pitfalls and ensure a smooth financial transition for loved ones.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    The role of a professional fiduciary and how they simplify trust administration.Why incapacity planning is just as important as estate planning.The biggest mistakes families make when preparing for end-of-life transitions.How technology is shaping the future of estate planning.And more!

    Tune in to gain expert insights on preparing for the future with clarity and confidence.

    Resources:

    Episode Transcript & Blog | Trust & Honor | The Legacy of Love | Sara Ecklein - LinkedIn | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • What if you could learn the most valuable parts of an MBA — without spending years in school?

    In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by John Cousins, an investor, tech founder, and bestselling author who is revolutionizing business education. As the founder of MBA A$AP, a platform that has trained over 30,000 students across 165 countries, John has distilled the traditional MBA into an accessible, fast-track learning experience.

    Tune in to discover how he’s making business knowledge more practical, affordable, and globally available.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    Why traditional MBA programs may not be the best return on investment.How the 80/20 rule applies to business education, helping you focus on the most impactful concepts.The innovative ways MBA A$AP is leveraging AI to enhance learning and accessibility worldwide.And more!

    Resources:

    Episode Transcript & Summary Doc | MBA A$AP | Corporate Finance A$AP: Level Up With Powerful Finance Tools and Better Decision-Making | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is back for the second part in a series on how to maximize your 401(k). Now that you understand the importance of contributing to your retirement plan, the next big questions are: How much should you be saving? and How should you allocate those savings? Marc breaks it all down, from contribution strategies to investment options, so you can build a retirement portfolio that aligns with your goals.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    How to determine the right contribution amount for your 401(k).The pros and cons of target date funds and whether they’re right for you.How to use your plan’s allocation tools—or create a customized investment strategy.Key updates to 401(k) plans in 2025 under the SECURE 2.0 Act.And more!

    Resources:

    Episode Transcript & Blog | Episode 222 - Maximize Your 401(k): Roth vs Pre-Tax Contributions | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • What does it take to excel in the NFL and the business world? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis sits down with Marques Colston, Super Bowl Champion and Founding Partner at Champion Venture Partners, to explore how the lessons learned on the field translate into success in business and investing.

    From his unexpected rise as an NFL standout to becoming a trailblazing entrepreneur, Marques shares the mindset and philosophy that have fueled his achievements. His decade-long football career taught him that sustained success requires daily effort, humility to keep learning, curiosity to uncover new opportunities, and confidence built through preparation and repetition.

    Today, Marques applies this winning mentality in his work as an entrepreneur, educator, executive coach, and strategic consultant. With a mission to empower underserved and underestimated communities, he’s focused on helping others break through barriers and achieve beyond their perceived limitations.

    Through Champion Venture Partners (CVP), Marques is building a legacy by creating wealth-building opportunities for a diverse group of investors, revolutionizing the sports investment landscape along the way.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    How Champion Venture Partners is reshaping sports investing with a diversified portfolio spanning sports tech, medicine, teams, and more.Why self-leadership, teamwork, and culture are crucial to building sustainable success in both sports and business.The vital role of access to high-quality investment opportunities in creating lasting wealth.Marques’s efforts to democratize investment through education and initiatives that reach underserved communities.And more!

    Resources:
    Episode Transcript & Blog | championventurepartners.com | Champion Venture Partners (LinkedIn) | Champion Venture Partners (Instagram) | Marques Colston (LinkedIn) | Marques Colston (Instagram) | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • How do you lead with responsibility, build high-performing teams, and inspire action? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the most recent book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy Seals Lead and Win by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin.

    Whether you’re managing a business, a family, or your personal goals, these leadership principles can transform how you approach challenges.

    In this episode, we discuss:

    What “Extreme Ownership” is, and how to employ it in business and in life.The role of leadership in building successful teams.How to inspire action and accountability through effective communication within teams.The importance of collaboration. And more!

    Drawing connections between military strategies and financial planning, the team offers actionable insights for leaders, professionals, and anyone striving for success. Listen in for strategies that will inspire you to take ownership, lead effectively, and create impactful results in every area of your life.

    Resources:
    Episode Transcript & Blog | Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy Seals Lead and Win | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • Dreaming of flying first-class, lounging in luxury hotels, or planning your perfect vacation without breaking the bank? What if you could unlock the secrets to doing it all with points and miles you’re already earning — or could be?

    In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Elliot Rosenberg, Founder of Hack My Honeymoon, to uncover the secrets of turning everyday spending into nearly-free luxury travel. Elliot, an expert in helping high-spenders and business owners maximize the value of their credit card points, shares how he helps clients go beyond 2% cash back to achieving 10-20% in rewards toward unforgettable experiences.

    From premium flights to five-star accommodations, Elliot reveals his strategies for optimizing points, earning bonuses, and making the most of your travel rewards to create memories that last a lifetime.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    How to strategically earn and redeem credit card points for luxury travel experiences.The importance of using the right cards for specific spending categories to maximize rewards.Why flexibility in your travel plans can significantly enhance the value of your points.Common mistakes people make when attempting to travel hack (and how to avoid them).Tips for extracting maximum value from premium credit cards with high annual fees.And more!

    Resources:
    Episode Transcript & Blog | hackmyhoneymoon.com | Elliot Rosenberg on Social: @EHRosenberg | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • Did you know there’s over $2 trillion in free money out there, just waiting to be claimed? Whether you're starting a business, looking to pay for job training, or simply need help with living expenses, government grants and nonprofit funding can make it happen. But most people don’t even know where to start. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Matthew Lesko — the expert on uncovering hidden funding opportunities — to help you unlock the secrets to free money. Get ready to take notes because this episode might just change your financial future.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    The types of grants available to individuals and small businesses, and how to find them in your community. Why many people overlook available grants, and how to avoid common mistakes in the application process.How to use AI tools like ChatGPT to streamline your grant search and find opportunities you may have missed. The growing trend of government-funded job training programs and how you can access funding even if you’re unemployed. And more!

    Resources:
    Episode Transcript & Blog | leskohelp.com | youtube.com/matthewlesko | www.findhelp.org | hud.gov/counseling | https://sba.gov/localassistance | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • In 2023, side hustles contributed nearly $500 billion to the U.S. economy. Imagine tapping into that potential! Today, we’re diving into how you can start and grow your own side hustle.

    In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis sits down with Joan Posivy, a seasoned entrepreneur who has turned side hustles into successful business ventures. Joan is also the author of the best-selling book The Way Success Works and the host of the Side Hustle Hero podcast.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    How to start a side hustle with minimal costs.How low-cost side hustles can still be profitable.How to balance a full-time job with a side hustle – and transition it into a full-time business.Why focusing on one side hustle at a time is key to success.Common mistakes to avoid when starting a side hustle.And more!

    Resources:
    Episode Transcript & Blog | sidehustlehero.com | The Way Success Works | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • Imagine a world where every family is built on a foundation of love, clarity and harmony. Where generational trauma is healed, difficult conversations lead to breakthroughs, and relationships aren’t just surviving but thriving. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, today’s guest had made it her mission to turn this vision into reality.

    In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Rebeccah Silence, a Self Healing and Relationship Expert, award-winning author, and transformational coach. Whether you’re navigating family dynamics, aiming to strengthen your relationships, or simply seeking professional transformation, you’re about to learn the tools and strategies to achieve all that – and more.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    The four stages of relationships and how to navigate them.How to handle recurring challenges in relationships.The importance of facilitation in resolving conflicts.Practical hacks for identifying what you want.Why clarity is the key to successful arguments.And more!

    Resources:
    Episode Transcript & Blog | rebeccahsilence.com | Coming Back to Life: A Roadmap to Heal from Pain and Create the Life You Want | The Emotional Survival Kit | YouTube: Rebecca Silence | Facebook: Rebeccah Silence | Twitter: Rebecca Silence | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • The decisions you make today could have a big impact on your taxes, savings, and investments next year. Are you ready to act? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis dives into the essential financial planning tasks to complete year-end. With December 31st deadlines looming, Marc provides actionable advice to ensure you're maximizing your financial opportunities and staying ahead of potential tax pitfalls.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    How to leverage tax-loss harvesting and manage capital gains effectively.The benefits of Roth conversions and how to determine if they’re right for you.Key considerations for retirement contributions, RMDs, and 401(k) strategies.Tips for optimizing charitable giving and flexible spending accounts (FSAs).Why annual financial checkups are critical and how year-end planning can set the stage for financial success.And more!

    Resources:
    Episode Transcript & Blog | The 2024 Last-Chance Financial Planning Checklist | Episode 222 – Maximize Your 401(k): Roth vs Pre-Tax Contributions | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • Are you looking to maximize your real estate investments while minimizing tax liabilities? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by Stephen Haskell, Vice President of 1031 Exchange Sales at RealtyMogul, to explore powerful strategies like 1031 exchanges, Delaware Statutory Trusts, and Qualified Opportunity Zones. Whether you’re an experienced investor or just getting started, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you build wealth and diversify your portfolio.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    The tax implications of property sales, and how a 1031 exchange helps How to prepare for a successful 1031 exchange, including strategies to meet the strict identification and closing deadlines.What a Delaware Statutory Trust is (DST), and how it can provide diversification and a hands-off investment option.How Qualified Opportunity Zones (QOZs) work and their benefits, including tax deferral for non-real estate assets and tax-free appreciation after 10 years.The latest trends in real estate investing, including a discussion on the use of technology to optimize investment decisions.And more!

    Resources:
    Episode Transcript & Blog | www.realtymogul.com | [email protected] | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • Are you making the most of your 401(k)? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis dives deep into the 401(k) – a cornerstone of retirement planning that has transformed how Americans save for the future. Tune in to discover the nuances between Roth and pre-tax contributions, including their immediate and long-term implications.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    The evolution and history of the 401(k) and its impact on retirement savings.The key differences between Roth and pre-tax 401(k) contributions and their tax implications.How to determine whether Roth contributions may be more beneficial based on your current and future tax situation.The significance of employer matching contributions and how the Secure Act 2.0 has changed matching rules for Roth accounts.The concept of required minimum distributions (RMDs) and the recent changes affecting Roth 401(k)s.The Mega Backdoor Roth strategy, allowing high earners to maximize contributions to Roth accounts beyond standard limits.

    Resources:
    Episode Transcript & Blog | Checklist: Should I Contribute to My Roth 401(k)? | Checklist: Can I Make a Mega Backdoor Roth Contribution? | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list? What if you could transform the way you approach your time, shifting from simply managing it to truly optimizing it? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis is joined by David Buck, co-author of The Time-Optimized Life: Moving Everyday Preparation, Execution and Control from Finite to Infinite. With over 35 years of experience in organizational and time management, he founded Kairos Management Solutions and the Infinity Lifestyle design program. David specializes in helping business professionals navigate the challenges of inflexible schedules, empowering them to create strategies that optimize their time for a life filled with meaning, purpose, and joy.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    The difference between “time management,” which is often reactive, and “time optimization,” which encourages a proactive approach to structuring time effectively.What the PEC framework is, and how this approach can optimize both short- and long-term planning.The importance of long-term goals and planning, and how these guide our daily actions. How to audit your time to identify areas for improvement and waste.The meaning of “infinite time.”And more!

    Resources:
    Episode Transcript & Blog | infinitylifestyledesign.com | The Time-Optimized Life: Moving Everyday Preparation, Execution and Control from Finite to Infinite | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • Learn how fractional ownership can revolutionize your approach to real estate investing! In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis explores the concept of co-investing in real estate with Brian Davis, co-founder of SparkRental and an expert in passive real estate investing. Brian shares valuable insights on how fractional ownership allows investors to diversify their portfolios and minimize risks while accessing opportunities that may have previously seemed out of reach.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    The fundamentals of co-investing and how it differs from traditional real estate investing.The benefits of fractional ownership for both novice and seasoned investors.How SparkRental facilitates co-investing for its club members, making real estate investment more accessible.Practical tips for getting started in co-investing and maximizing your investment potential.And more!

    Tune in to unlock the power of fractional ownership!

    Resources:
    Episode Blog & Transcript | SparkRental.com | Live Off Rents Podcast | [email protected] | [email protected] | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • Read to turn your service into an extraordinary experience? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, the Bautis Financial team discusses the most recent book assignment in their monthly Book Club, Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guidara.

    Unreasonable Hospitality is a captivating book about how going above and beyond can create unforgettable experiences for customers, or clients. Discover actionable takeaways, inspiring anecdotes, and strategies to elevate your service to new heights!

    In this episode, we discuss:

    What unreasonable hospitality is, and what sets it apart from traditional notions of hospitality.The importance of empowering team members to exceed expectations and foster a culture of creativity and collaboration.How affirmation can be leveraged as a tool for motivation and trust-building within teams.The challenges of executing unreasonable hospitality effectively in various contexts, and how to overcome them.And more!

    Resources:
    Episode Transcript & Blog | Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

  • Ever wondered why some organizations thrive while others struggle despite having strong values and mission statements? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis dives in deep with Kyle McDowell, former senior executive turned bestselling author and leadership coach, as he reveals the transformative power of shifting from a 'me' mindset to a 'WE' culture. Discover the '10 WEs' that can revolutionize your team's dynamics and drive unparalleled success.

    Tune in to find out how simple yet profound changes can reshape your organization from the inside out!

    In this episode, you will learn:

    The power of “WE,” and why leaders in all kinds of organizations should avoid the "me-oriented" paradigm.The “10 WEs” – principles focused on fostering collaboration and collective accountability.How to implement and integrate these principles into daily operations, and hold individuals accountable. How successful adoption of the principles can create meaningful change.And more!

    Resources:
    Episode Transcript & Blog | Begin With WE: Principles for Building and Sustaining a Culture of Excellence | KyleMcDowellInc.com | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call