Category: Equine

FEATURE
Transform Your Life with Applied Improvisation with Ryan Sullivan, CFP®, CRPC®, RCC™ (Ep. 21)

Transform Your Life with Applied Improvisation with Ryan Sullivan, CFP®, CRPC®, RCC™ (Ep. 21)

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One of the most valuable skills in today’s world is the ability to improvise. 

Improvisation is not just about making things up on the spot but also about adapting to changing situations, finding creative solutions, and collaborating with others.

In this episode, Billy and Shaun Peterson sit down with Ryan Sullivan, CFP®, CRPC®, RCC™, Vice President and Managing Director, Applied Insights for Hartford Funds.

They explore the power of applied improvisation in finance, health, and mindset. They highlight the concept of “Yes, And” and its impact on problem-solving and creativity. Additionally, Ryan explains how improvisation can be applied in everyday life, shares brain-boosting exercises, and explores the art of explanation and active listening.

Together, they discuss: 

  • The origins and uses of applied improvisation in various fields such as business, leadership, and caregiving
  • How the “Yes, And” mindset can be applied to business and communication
  • An improvisation exercise and how it can be used in various scenarios
  • The importance of challenging the brain in new ways to create new connections and reduce the risk of cognitive decline
  • How to use a simple exercise to improve communication skills at work and in personal relationships
  • Studies showing the positive effects of applied improvisation on brain health, communication, and overall well-being
  • And more!

Resources:

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Connect with Ryan Sullivan:

About Our Guest: 

Ryan Sullivan is a vice president and managing director of applied insights for Hartford Funds.  He leads communication workshops around the country and speaks on a variety of financial and practice management topics, with a focus on retirement research from the MIT AgeLab. To date, Ryan has provided insights to audiences in 46 states and Puerto Rico, as well as led over a  thousand webinars. 

Ryan originally joined Hartford Funds in 1996, holding various roles of increasing responsibility.  He left the company in 2012 as a vice president of advanced markets. Prior to rejoining Hartford  Funds, Ryan founded a business to coach professionals on public speaking and impactful communication. He was later hired by his largest client, financial-planning software company  Envestnet MoneyGuide, where he was vice president and head of investor education. 

In addition to his role at Hartford Funds, Ryan volunteers his time and communication expertise to help others. Since 2012, he’s led communication workshops at UNC Charlotte’s Center for  Leadership and Community Engagement. He also volunteers to help empower athletes with disabilities, people experiencing homelessness, and those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia.  Ryan serves on Hartford Funds’ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Council. 

Ryan is a registered representative of Hartford Funds Distributors, LLC, and is FINRA Series  7 and 63 registered. He holds his Life, Health, and Variable Products licenses and has earned the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU®), Chartered Financial  Consultant (ChFC®), Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC®), and Chartered Mutual  Fund Counselor (CMFC®) designations. He’s a Fellow of LOMA’s® Life Management Institute and is also a Registered Corporate Coach (RCC™).  

Originally from Hartford, Connecticut, Ryan attended Bucknell University, where he earned a  bachelor’s degree in business administration. He currently lives in Charlotte, North Carolina,  with his wife, Katie.  

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Economics and Technology with Bob Kaynor of Hartford Schroders (Ep. 20)

Economics and Technology with Bob Kaynor of Hartford Schroders (Ep. 20)

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Staying informed about the economy, market trends, and emerging technologies is crucial for investors and professionals. 

Will artificial intelligence guide a new era of job creation? 

In this episode, Billy and Shaun are joined by Bob Kaynor, Portfolio Manager at Hartford Schroders to hear his insights on the current market, the impact of higher interest rates on small and mid-sized companies, and his approach to portfolio building in the technology sector. Together they also discuss the potential impact of AI on the workforce, including potential scenarios of job creation or elimination.

Throughout the episode Bob shares:

  • His background, education, and experience in small and mid-cap equities, as well as his role at Hartford Schroders
  • Current market conditions and the potential for broadening growth opportunities
  • Perspective surrounding AI and how it may impact the employment rate
  • The potential in real estate, including single-family rental home REITs, and the challenges in the energy sector
  • And more!

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Connect with Bob Kaynor: 

About Our Guest: 

Robert “Bob” Kaynor, CFA, is the Portfolio Manager for the Hartford Schroders US Small Cap Opportunities Fund and Hartford Schroders US MidCap Opportunities Fund. He joined Schroders as a Senior Equity Analyst in 2013 and became Research Director in 2014.

Prior to joining Schroders, Bob was the Chief Investment Officer and Managing Member at Ballast Capital Group from 2010 to 2013, which involved managing a fundamental long/short portfolio.

Bob was a Managing Director/Portfolio Manager at Ramius Capital Group from 2003 to 2010, which involved co-managing a hedged equity product.

He was a Partner/Analyst at Barbary Coast Capital Management from 2000 to 2003, which involved co-managing a long/short equity hedge fund focused on small and mid-cap equities.

Bob began his investment career in 1994 when he joined RCM Capital Management as an Analyst/Assistant Portfolio, which involved working exclusively on a domestic long-only small-cap product recommending and covering equities.

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From the Racetrack to Business Owner with Kip Didericksen (Ep. 19)

From the Racetrack to Business Owner with Kip Didericksen (Ep. 19)

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Few journeys are as exhilarating and transformative as those of a jockey.

The rush of adrenaline during races and the intricate partnership between humans and horses all come together to tell a story of talent, perseverance, and passion.

In this episode, Kip Didericksen, a renowned former jockey shares his journey from the race tracks to being a business owner, highlighting how the value of hard work and strategy contributed to his success. He also talks about memorable horses and people, and the races that taught him valuable lessons. 

Kip discusses: 

  • His childhood as a member of a racehorse family and how he idolized jockeys
  • The talent level and competition among jockeys at Los Alamitos
  • His standout horses and the trainers who supported him
  • A look back at his most successful season when he was the leading rider and won multiple races
  • His experience of being treated poorly by a fellow jockey and how it motivated him to always help others
  • And more!

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Navigating Economic Ups and Downs: Insights from a Third-Generation Business Owner with Nate Reeve (Ep. 16)

Navigating Economic Ups and Downs: Insights from a Third-Generation Business Owner with Nate Reeve (Ep. 16)

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Managing a business has its share of trials and tribulations, from economic uncertainty and market fluctuations to finding a healthy balance between work and life.

In this episode, Billy and Shaun Peterson chat with third-generation business owner Nate Reeve of Reeve & Associates, Inc, about why he chose to buy out his father to become owner and principal of the development firm. Listen as he shares insights about his journey in the engineering industry and how his business continues to excel while navigating economic ups and downs.

Join Billy, Shaun, and Nate as they discuss:

  • How Nate became involved in the business and the pressures of following in his family’s footsteps
  • The impact of the economy, namely recessions and inflation on businesses 
  • Nate’s experience of having a brain tumor removed and the importance of relying on others for support
  • The challenges of government regulations and the impact of interest rates on businesses
  • And more!

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About Our Guest: 

Nate Reeve’s career began at the young age of 9 by helping his dad with surveys and blueprinting construction plans.

After many years of working side by side with his dad, Nate took over the company in 2010 as president. Nate graduated from Utah State University with his degree in civil engineering in 2000. As a licensed professional civil and structural engineer, his project portfolio includes large-scale land development projects with full-on and off-site infrastructure improvements as well as site development projects for the commercial, industrial, residential, and public building sectors. Nate has served as the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) president and was the first recipient of the Enterprise 7 Elite Award.

Nate is married and has two sons and two daughters. Outside of work, Nate is a lover of sports. He enjoys playing basketball, pickleball and golf, and water sports. He also loves traveling to Lake Powell and spending time with his family.

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The Mind-Body Connection with Heather Peterson of Pain Free For Good (Ep. 15)

The Mind-Body Connection with Heather Peterson of Pain Free For Good (Ep. 15)

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Nowadays, we tend to prioritize our daily tasks over our own well-being, and we need to remember what kind of consequences this could have on our health.

How strong is the connection between our mental and physical health?

Let’s analyze the link between them.

In this episode, Billy, Shaun, and Cade Peterson sit down with Heather Peterson, founder of Pain Free For Good. Heather shares her personal journey and how her husband, Billy’s chronic back pain set her on the path of entrepreneurship and better health. 

Join the Petersons as they discuss: 

  • Heather’s background and why she launched Pain Free For Good
  • How Dr. John Sarno’s book, “Healing Back Pain,” was a turning point for her and Billy
  • The mind-body connection and why doctors often fail to recognize it
  • How emotional stressors can manifest physically
  • Real-life success stories focusing on abundance instead of lack
  • And more!

Resources:

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Connect with Heather Peterson: 

About Our Guest: 

Heather Peterson, owner and founder of Pain Free For Good, began her search for the truth in 2010 while desperately trying to find the answers to help her husband recover from chronic pain. While on her search for answers, she also healed herself and has continued to help countless others trying to cross the river of pain. As a Mindbody Healer and Coach, she is passionate about helping women discover the truth in order to overcome physical and emotional pain.

 

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Is a Recession Looming on the Horizon? (Ep. 13)

Is a Recession Looming on the Horizon? (Ep. 13)

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During these uncertain times, we are faced with the worry of a recession.

Is there one looming on the horizon?

Find out as Billy and Shaun welcome Strider Elass, Senior Economist at First Trust, as he shares his thoughts and predictions about whether a recession is on its way, and what we can do to prepare.

This insightful episode will cover:

  • The definition of a recession and how it typically affects the economy
  • Recession indicators according to the National Bureau of Economic Research 
  • Historical comparison of major recessions throughout the US
  • How and why the Federal Reserve is lowering the money supply
  • Quantitative tightening and quantitative easing and how they impact lending
  • How the current economic situation is different from the 2008 recession
  • The expected longevity of inflation and increased interest rates 
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Billy Peterson:

Connect with Shaun Peterson: 

Connect with Strider Elass: 

About Our Guest: 

Strider Elass is an Economist at First Trust Advisors L.P., a financial services firm based in Wheaton, Illinois. 

At First Trust, Mr. Elass is responsible for analyzing economic indicators, writing economic commentaries, and producing pieces on the First Trust Economics Blog. 

Mr. Elass is part of the First Trust economics team that Bloomberg has consecutively ranked as one of the top forecasters of the U.S. economy over the past several years. This First Trust economics team has also won Market Watch’s “Forecaster of the Month” Award several times over the past few years. 

Mr. Elass was also instrumental in researching the book It’s Not As Bad As You Think, published in 2009 by First Trust Chief Economist Brian Wesbury. 

Beyond his research responsibilities, Mr. Elass speaks regularly at broker and retail events around the country and abroad. 

Mr. Elass received a B.A. in Business and Economics from Wheaton College, in Wheaton, Illinois, and is currently a candidate in the CFA Program.

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FEATURE
Investing 101: Real-Life Stories and Strategies for Beginners (Ep. 12)

Investing 101: Real-Life Stories and Strategies for Beginners (Ep. 12)

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In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing economic landscape, it has become increasingly crucial for individuals of all ages to acquire financial literacy and understand the power of investing. 

Taking charge of our financial future can pave the way for long-term stability and growth.

Want to know some basic investing concepts that will help you get started?

In this episode, Billy Peterson is joined by his colleagues Cade and Shaun to talk about the importance of getting started with investing at an early age.

Listen in as they discuss:

  • How their annual Financial Boot Camp helps students learn about good money habits and how to avoid debt
  • Stories of how they got into investing, and their favorite tips from Warren Buffet
  • The importance of diversification and investing in income-producing assets, mutual funds, and securities
  • The power of compounding interest, particularly for the younger generation
  • And more!

Resources:

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Connect with Cade Peterson:

 

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Opportunities and Challenges within the Horse Racing Industry with Janet VanBebber (Ep. 11)

Opportunities and Challenges within the Horse Racing Industry with Janet VanBebber (Ep. 11)

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There are many challenges facing the horse racing industry, both from an economic and social perspective.

Despite this, it continues to strive for growth and attract new generations.

And what better way to shed light on these topics than by speaking with someone who possesses a profound understanding of the industry?

Join Billy and Cade as they sit down with Janet VanBebber, Chief Racing Officer, at the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) to hear her insights and perspective on the horse racing industry. She candidly shares her optimism for the future of horse racing, as well as its challenges. Additionally, she talks about the opportunities for young people and professionals to get involved in racing.

Listen in as Janet shares: 

  • Some of her most memorable moments as a trainer, and equine enthusiast
  • How inflation has impacted the horse industry and AQHA
  • The need to engage the next generation  
  • Her mission to monitor emergent threats and keep integrity within the sport
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Billy Peterson:

Connect with Cade Peterson:

Connect with Janet VanBebber: 

About Our Guest: 

Janet VanBebber is the Chief Racing Officer for the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA). VanBebber is responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating the racing department, Racing Challenge, and related programs. Janet plays a key role in developing and implementing programs and objectives to promote the advancement of Quarter Horse racing across the globe.

VanBebber’s resume boasts a long and successful career training and racing American Quarter Horses. The former owner of VanBebber Racing Stables of Ledbetter, Texas, she has a long history of involvement with American Quarter Horses and Quarter Horse racing and is well known for being one of the industry’s most accomplished trainers.

In 2011, she became the first female trainer to eclipse the 1,000th career win mark. Her resume also included being the recipient of the 2002 AQHA Mildred n. Vessels Special Achievement Award. Her career includes training world champion TAILOR FIT, who remains ranked as one of the breed’s top money earners-15 years after his final race.

In addition to owning VanBebber Racing Stables of Ledbetter, Texas, Janet has been on the board of directors for both the Texas Quarter Horse Association and the Texas HBPA, while also owning and managing other horse-related enterprises.

 

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Wills, Trusts, and Probates: Estate Planning with Wayne Bennett (Ep. 10)

Wills, Trusts, and Probates: Estate Planning with Wayne Bennett (Ep. 10)

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When planning to transfer your possessions to your loved ones, it can be daunting, both due to the burden of paperwork and familial pressure.

This is precisely why developing and arranging a will and trust with a trusted professional is critical.

Today’s guest, Wayne Bennett, Director & Shareholder at Clyde Snow & Sessions, helps his clients sort through the plethora of decisions when making, or updating a will, to assist in resolving family conflict from decisions made by the deceased. 

Join Wayne as he chats with Billy and Shaun about:

  • The difference between a will and a trust, and the role of beneficiaries
  • Why it is important to choose the right person as your representative or trustee
  • How to protect younger beneficiaries from mismanaging their inheritance 
  • The probate process and how having a trust can simplify the payout process
  • Key documents that should be included in a good estate plan
  • And more!

Connect with Billy Peterson:

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Connect with Wayne Bennett: 

About Our Guest: 

Wayne Bennett focuses his practice on representing individuals and solving problems in both the commercial and personal arenas. With respect to commercial clients, he is experienced in all aspects of tax, business, and estate planning. Specifically, Mr. Bennett works with people and local businesses in need of structuring assistance, business and personal planning, business formation issues, contracts, long- and short-term development plans, tax-related issues and planning, and business exit strategies. He is also proficient in handling commercial leases and commercial finance issues, for both the lender and borrower. Mr. Bennett is very experienced in handling asset purchase and stock purchase acquisitions and sales, as well as real estate transactions. Mr. Bennett has been involved in various merger transactions involving businesses of all types, and in working with banking customers to develop new relationships and to move business accounts to new banking relationships. Mr. Bennett assists a number of local community banks and other lenders with lending-related needs including loan documentation, maintenance, and collection. This work regularly includes reviewing and, when necessary, documenting new loans and advising lenders on how to work through troubled debt with struggling borrowers. With respect to planning for individuals, Mr. Bennett assists clients with their estate planning, estate taxation, wills and trusts, probate, and family disputes involving inheritance issues. With almost two decades of experience, Mr. Bennett has worked with clients on a multitude of estate types and has resolved numerous disputes involving estates and the heirs.

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