Tag: #Podcast

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More Time, Less Stress: Why Smart Businesses Are Outsourcing Their Bookkeeping with Cheri Giglia (Ep. 178)

More Time, Less Stress: Why Smart Businesses Are Outsourcing Their Bookkeeping with Cheri Giglia (Ep. 178)

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Outsourcing your bookkeeping isn’t just a cost-saving move; it could be the smartest strategic decision your business makes this year.

In this episode, Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, sits down with Cheri Giglia, Owner and Managing Director of Supporting Strategies on Long Island, to explore why more small businesses are turning to virtual bookkeeping for efficiency, clarity, and peace of mind.

Cheri shares how outsourced financial support can streamline operations, enhance internal controls, and deliver timely insights that empower business owners to make better decisions, whether they’re planning for growth, managing cash flow, or preparing for an audit. With real client stories and tech-forward best practices, this episode is packed with value for any business owner looking to scale smarter.

What to expect from this episode:

  • The top reasons businesses are turning to virtual bookkeeping
  • How cloud-based systems streamline accounting operations
  • Real client scenarios where bookkeeping impacted business decisions
  • Tips for choosing the right outsourced financial team
  • And more!

Connect with Cheri Giglia:

Connect with Larry Heller: 

About Our Guest:

Accounting and bookkeeping are services that many businesses on Long Island need to manage more effectively. Business owners struggle to find professionals who they trust to manage these important aspects of their operations. This is where Cheri Giglia and her company, Supporting Strategies on Long Island, come in. Her professional team removes owners’ headaches and improves efficiencies.

As an accountant and former Financial Director for a public company, Cheri has expertise working in many different industries. She understands the pressure and stress that business owners face when it comes to gaining greater financial control of their operations. She uses her more than two decades of experience in accounting and financial management to create strategies to improve efficiencies and reduce costs.

Cheri’s team of skilled accounting professionals accomplishes this by leveraging technology, allowing clients to easily outsource accounts payable management, billing/accounts receivables, financial/management reporting, HR and payroll support, bookkeeping and monthly financial statements/reports, and controller services. Outsourcing these services allows businesses to focus on growth and other profit-making activities. The way Cheri’s team operates permits them to offer competitively priced professional services and attention that competitors are unable to offer.

Cheri recognizes that there are many choices when it comes to selecting a professional or firm to provide accounting, bookkeeping, and controller services. Business owners and managers choose to work with her because of her experience, personal commitment, and her ability to rapidly provide the financial information they need to make critical business decisions.
The 6 Retirement Mistakes To Avoid (Ep. 177)

The 6 Retirement Mistakes To Avoid (Ep. 177)

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The market is unpredictable; your retirement plan shouldn’t be.

In this episode of Retirement Unlocked, host Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, breaks down six of the most common (and costly) mistakes people make when planning for retirement. From underestimating how much you can spend to failing to optimize your Social Security benefits, Larry shares why these pitfalls occur and how a process-based retirement plan can help you avoid them.

Whether you’re approaching retirement or already there, this episode provides actionable strategies to help you invest wisely, reduce emotional decision-making, and stay aligned with your long-term financial goals.

Key conversations in this week’s release include:

  • The importance of knowing how much you can truly spend in retirement [00:00:47]
  • Why creating a total return strategy beats relying solely on income [00:03:20]
  • The pitfalls of being too conservative with your investment portfolio [00:07:02]
  • When to start withdrawing from your retirement accounts—not just when RMDs kick in [00:10:32]
  • How to optimize Social Security for the best possible outcome [00:13:17]
  • The critical need for a comprehensive estate plan [00:15:51]
  • And more

Connect with Larry Heller: 

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Breaking the Health Insurance Mold: The New Health Plan Playbook with Louis Bernardi [Ep. 176]

Breaking the Health Insurance Mold: The New Health Plan Playbook with Louis Bernardi [Ep. 176]

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Health insurance is one of the largest expenses for many businesses, but are you getting what you’re paying for?

In this eye-opening episode, Larry Heller, CFP®, speaks with Louis Bernardi of BrightPath Benefit Advisors about the outdated and opaque nature of most employer-sponsored health insurance plans. Louis reveals how major carriers prioritize shareholder profits over actual care and explains how his PLAN system and data-driven strategies are helping employers cut costs while providing better healthcare options for employees.

From skyrocketing pharmacy costs to hidden MRI fees, Lou unpacks the waste baked into the system and provides actionable strategies to fix it. This is a behind-the-scenes look at an advanced strategy most employers haven’t even heard of.

Key discussions in this release include:

  • Why traditional health insurance models are broken
  • The hidden data behind skyrocketing healthcare costs
  • How Lou’s PLAN system (Prioritize, Leverage, Align, Navigate) helps optimize benefit design
  • Real-world savings on pharmacy and imaging costs
  • Options for companies of all sizes
  • And more!

Connect with Louis Bernardi:

Connect with Larry Heller: 

About Our Guest:

Louis Bernardi is the Founder & Benefit Optimization Officer of BritePath.  Lou is the innovator behind BritePath, the benefit strategy that flattens the curve on health insurance costs.  BritePath helps benefit decision makers reset their expectations with advanced analytics & insights that make them and their members more informed health care consumers capable of changing the trajectory of the cost and quality of their employer-sponsored health insurance plan.  Pay More, Get Less is replaced by a High-Performance Health Care Plan that allows them to finally start winning.

Lou is proud to be among the first 150 advisors accepted into Health Rosetta; an eco-system of forward-thinking advisors and solution partners that share his passion for helping people and businesses customize health plans that enhance benefits, improve outcomes and reduce costs.

Lou is also involved with Aspirational Healthcare, Free Market Medical and is a Forbes Business Council member.

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Your 5-Year Retirement Countdown: Key Steps to Take Now [Ep.175]

Your 5-Year Retirement Countdown: Key Steps to Take Now [Ep.175]

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What are some steps you should be taking 5 years before your retirement? 

This question sets the stage for an engaging episode with Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA ®, where we delve into the crucial five-year countdown to retirement. 

Larry emphasizes the importance of timely planning and actionable strategies to ensure a smooth shift into this new life phase. From building up cash reserves to maximizing 401(k) contributions, Larry walks us through a comprehensive guide tailored to those nearing retirement.

Larry covers topics such as:

  • Building cash reserves and why they’re crucial for a stable retirement [00:01:06]
  • Strategies to maximize your 401k contributions, especially for those over 50 [00:02:33]
  • Tax-efficient withdrawal strategies and their significance in your retirement plan [00:06:23]
  • The concept of a ‘Retirement Lifestyle Dry Run’ to mentally and financially prepare for life after work [00:10:34]
  • And more!

Connect with Larry Heller: 

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Understanding the Insurance Market Crisis: Higher Rates, Tougher Carriers, and Smart Moves with Gregg Knepper [Ep.174]

Understanding the Insurance Market Crisis: Higher Rates, Tougher Carriers, and Smart Moves with Gregg Knepper [Ep.174]

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Wildfires. Hurricanes. Cyber Attacks.
How are today’s biggest threats reshaping the insurance industry—and what can you do to stay protected?

In this episode of Retirement Unlocked, Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, sits down with Gregg Knepper, President of Integrated Coverage Group, to break down the rapidly changing insurance landscape. With more than 15 years of experience in risk management and personal insurance, Gregg shares expert insights into how natural disasters, inflation, and digital threats are driving up premiums—and what you can do about it.

From rising home and auto rates to the hidden gaps in your umbrella and cyber insurance, this conversation is packed with practical tips for protecting what matters most.

Key discussion points include:

  • Understanding personal insurance market challenges [01:00]
  • Impact of national disasters on local insurance premiums [02:45]
  • Adjusting policies with higher deductibles for cost efficiency [10:30]
  • The role of umbrella coverage and uninsured motorist protection [18:15]
  • The rise of cyber threats and the necessity for cyber insurance for individuals and businesses [24:00]
  • And more!

Connect with Gregg Knepper:

Connect with Larry Heller: 

About Our Guest:

Gregg Knepper is an experienced Insurance Adviser specializing in helping businesses and individuals limit their risk. As the President of Integrated Coverage Group, a rapidly growing insurance brokerage, Gregg brings over 13 years of expertise in the industry. Unlike traditional brokers who work for specific insurance carriers, Gregg is dedicated to working solely for their clients, ensuring that each client receives a solution tailored to their unique needs.

With a focus on reducing risk, Gregg works closely with clients to craft personalized insurance strategies across a wide range of areas, including workers’ compensation, employee benefits, and cyber insurance. Known for their trustworthiness, knowledge, and honesty, Gregg partners with clients every step of the way to ensure that their risks are managed effectively.

Specializing in supporting quickly growing businesses with sophisticated insurance and risk management needs, Gregg has extensive experience in serving industries such as technology firms, medical practices, real estate, manufacturing, and restaurants and hospitality.

Whether a client is a small startup or a large, complex organization, Gregg Knepper provides the expertise and dedication to meet their specific insurance needs.

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5 Tax Gotchas That High-Net-Worth Individuals Overlook [Ep.173]

5 Tax Gotchas That High-Net-Worth Individuals Overlook [Ep.173]

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What tax traps could derail your retirement plans? 

In this episode, Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, breaks down five major tax “gotchas” that high-net-worth retirees must navigate to protect their wealth and retirement security.

From the impact of required minimum distributions to the looming expiration of the 2017 tax cuts, Larry sheds light on often-overlooked tax challenges. He also explores strategic solutions like Roth conversions and income planning to help retirees minimize surprises and maximize financial confidence.

Key episode discussions include:

  • Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and their tax impact [03:09]
  • Expiration of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Job Act [04:04]
  • The “Widow Penalty” and implications for single retirees [07:37]
  • Gifting strategies and estate planning considerations [10:03]
  • The consequences of leaving large IRAs to children [11:05]
  • And more!

Connect with Larry Heller: 

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Retirement Unlocked: Managing Sequence of Returns Risk [Ep.171]

Retirement Unlocked: Managing Sequence of Returns Risk [Ep.171]

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What does it mean to face the ‘sequence of returns risk’ when you retire?

In this episode of Retirement Unlocked, Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, discusses why the order of your investment returns matters as you enter retirement. Larry also breaks down this critical aspect of retirement planning and introduces strategies that can safeguard your financial future.

Key episode discussion points include:

  • The shift from “Life Unlimited” to “Retirement Unlocked”
  • How the sequence of returns can impact retirees 
  • Historical examples of sequence of returns risk
  • The reservoir strategy for mitigating those risks
  • Insights on adjusting your withdrawal strategy 
  • Behavioral finance and the psychological aspects of investing 
  • And more!

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Connect with Larry Heller: 

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7 Costly Financial Planning Mistakes You’re Making (And How to Avoid Them!) [Ep. 167]

7 Costly Financial Planning Mistakes You’re Making (And How to Avoid Them!) [Ep. 167]

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How well do you truly know your tax bracket? Did you know that not knowing enough could cost you thousands?

Get ready to learn some critical financial planning mistakes that might secretly derail your financial security.

This week on the Life Unlimited podcast, Larry Heller identifies the seven most common financial mistakes people make and how to avoid them—such as lacking knowledge about their tax bracket and neglecting estate planning updates. 

Key conversations include:

  • Understanding Your Tax Bracket: Learn why knowing your tax bracket is essential for maximizing opportunities like Roth conversions and minimizing overpayments.
  • Zero Capital Gain Brackets: Discover how to take advantage of tax-free gains to grow your wealth.
  • Investment Pitfalls: Avoid the dangers of chasing past investment performance and align your strategy with your goals.
  • Estate Planning Essentials: Ensure your estate planning documents are up to date and reflect life’s changes.
  • Liability Insurance: Protect yourself and your family with adequate coverage, including an umbrella policy for uninsured motorist protection.
  • Heir and Spouse Preparedness: Steps to prepare your loved ones, including non-financial spouses, for managing wealth.
  • Spending and Withdrawal Strategies in Retirement: Avoid overspending while ensuring your savings last throughout your lifetime.

Actionable Takeaway: Through practical examples and insightful advice, Larry highlights the importance of staying informed and proactive with your finances. 

 

Connect with Larry Heller: 

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Protecting What Matters Most: Estate Planning for Women with Allison Dolzani [Ep. 166]

Protecting What Matters Most: Estate Planning for Women with Allison Dolzani [Ep. 166]

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Estate planning goes beyond documents—it’s about protecting loved ones, achieving financial independence, and aligning plans with long-term goals.

In this episode of the Life Unlimited podcast, host Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, sits down with Allison Dolzani, estate planning attorney and partner at Julie Kessler, LLP, to explore strategies tailored to women navigating major life transitions like divorce, widowhood, or retirement.

They discuss critical topics, including naming guardians for minor children, safeguarding inherited assets, and maintaining up-to-date estate plans. Allison also emphasizes the importance of foundational documents like healthcare proxies, powers of attorney, and trusts in creating a solid plan.

With actionable insights on avoiding costly mistakes and tailoring plans to personal and family goals, Allison provides a clear roadmap for building an estate plan that safeguards your future and protects what matters most.

Key Points Covered:

  • Unique Considerations for Women: Proactively update estate plans after major life events and align documents with custody agreements.
  • Guardianship Essentials: Designate primary and successor guardians to ensure your children are cared for according to your wishes.
  • Critical Documents: Secure essential documents such as wills, trusts, healthcare proxies, and powers of attorney for comprehensive protection.
  • Managing Inherited Assets: Protect personal wealth from marital commingling and preserve assets for future generations.
  • Legacy Planning: Create a lasting impact by incorporating charitable contributions or personal wishes into your estate plan.
  • Tax Planning: Navigate challenges like New York’s “cliff tax” and take advantage of exemptions tailored for single women.
  • Empowering Financial Independence: Use estate planning to confidently manage transitions, secure financial stability, and achieve long-term goals.
  • And much more!

Actionable Takeaway: Estate planning is vital to stabilizing your family’s future and building financial independence. Start today by consulting an estate planning professional to create a plan tailored to your unique needs.

Connect with Larry Heller: 

Connect with Allison E. Dolzani: 

About Our Guest:

Allison Dolzani specializes in estate planning, estate administration, and Surrogate’s Court practice. Allison represents domestic and international individuals and multigenerational families in sophisticated estate planning, emphasizing minimizing the impact of gift, estate, generation-skipping transfer, and income taxes.

Allison joined the firm in September 2018. Before joining Julie Kessler LLP, Allison was an associate at a New York City law firm focused on estate administration and litigation.

Allison earned her law degree from Touro Law School. While in law school, Allison served as Research Editor of Touro Law Review and authored Intellectual Property and Constitutional Law articles.  Allison graduated magna cum laude from Western New England University with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy.

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Navigating S Corps: The Pros, Cons, and Tax Implications for Small Businesses [Ep. 165]

Navigating S Corps: The Pros, Cons, and Tax Implications for Small Businesses [Ep. 165]

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Choosing the right business structure isn’t just about compliance – it’s about maximizing tax efficiency and aligning with your long-term goals.

Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, and William Huether, CPA, CGMA, MBA, discuss how S-Corporations can help business owners save on taxes, streamline compliance, and drive growth. They compare S-Corps to C-Corps, LLCs, and partnerships, offering insights on tax benefits, drawbacks, and strategies to align business structures with long-term goals. 

With practical advice on avoiding double taxation and leveraging pass-through entity tax (PTET) benefits, William provides a roadmap for optimizing your business structure.

Key Points Covered:

  • Why S-Corps Work: Reduce double taxation, save on self-employment taxes, and enjoy a corporate framework’s perks
  • PTET Benefits: Discover how to bypass the $10,000 SALT cap using pass-through entity tax strategies
  • Entity Selection Simplified: Weigh the pros and cons of S-Corps, C-Corps, LLCs, and partnerships to find the best fit for your business
  • Compliance Essentials: Stay on top of filing deadlines, salary requirements, and state-specific rules like New York elections
  • Avoiding Pitfalls: Learn about reasonable salary requirements, local jurisdiction limitations, and transition strategies between entity types
  • And much more!

Actionable Takeaway: The right business structure could be the key to significant tax savings and long-term financial success. Consult a CPA or tax professional to evaluate your options and create a tax plan tailored to your goals.

 

Resources:

Connect with Larry Heller: 

Connect with William Huether: 

 

About Our Guest:

William Huether is a Certified Public Accountant with over eleven years of experience with clients in a broad range of industries, including the retail, wholesale, distribution, restaurant/hospitality, not-for-profit, solar, investment company, manufacturing, and real estate industries.  William holds the Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) designation from the AICPA and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants.

William works in Sheehan’s assurance practice and provides auditing, accounting, and consulting services to clients in various industries in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and International Financial Reporting Standards.  William also provides a variety of tax planning, compliance, and consulting services to individuals, corporations, flow-through entities, and trusts. He is an active member of the firm’s recruiting committee, a mentor in the firm’s career advisor program, and serves on the firm’s Quality Control Committee.