Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast

Employer Life Insurance Explained: Is Coverage Through Work Enough?

Ameritas — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 11:00:35 -0400

Is life insurance through work enough? Learn how employer-provided life insurance works, where protection gaps may exist and when it's time to review your coverage. Learn more about employer-provided life insurance in our blog: https://www.ameritas.com/insights/is-employer-life-insurance-enough-what-you-should-know/ In this episode of Future Focus, Troy Branch, Keali Jo French and Jacob Messick discuss what employer-provided life insurance does well and how it may be a good starting point. Then they review why supplemental coverage may help cover more expenses, such as housing, debt, childcare, education or ongoing support for a spouse or partner. You'll also learn which life events should prompt a coverage review, including a job change, marriage or divorce, a new child, a home purchase, business ownership and retirement. The conversation also explores what may happen to group life insurance when employment ends, including portability, conversion, changing costs and important deadlines. If you're watching on YouTube, be sure to like, subscribe and share your questions in the comments for future episodes. Prefer listening on the go? You can find Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow, rate and review the show, and send your questions to futurefocus@ameritas.com. Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast  Welcome to Future Focus, a podcast designed to make sense of complex financial topics. Hosted by Troy Branch, a professional with over 25 years in the financial services industry, this Ameritas advanced planning podcast offers engaging panel discussions that simplifies the jargon into straightforward insight.   Whether you’re a business owner aiming to enhance your financial knowledge or someone interested in financial literacy, Future Focus is your go-to resource. Each episode provides practical tips covering topics like estate planning, managing risk, retirement strategies for business owners and much more.  Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/ Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus Disclosures This podcast is for information purposes only and will cover a variety of topics examining the role insurance and other financial products may play in financial decisions. The information presented here is not intended as tax, accounting, or other legal advice. If tax or other legal advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought.  This information is provided by Ameritas, which is a marketing name for subsidiaries of Ameritas Mutual Holding Company. Subsidiaries include Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. In Lincoln, Nebraska and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York (licensed in New York) in White Plains, New York. Each company is solely responsible for its own financial condition and contractual obligations. For more information about Ameritas, visit ameritas.com. Ameritas and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. Fulfilling life is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company. 2026 Ameritas Mutual Holding Company Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

What Business Stage Are You In? Established, Maturity and Transition Part 2

Ameritas — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 11:00:00 -0400

The questions that helped build a business are not always the same questions that help preserve it. In part two of this episode, What Business Stage Are You In, we explore how established, maturity and transition stages bring new planning considerations. In these business stages, you may need to think about protecting value, creating liquidity, preparing for succession and life after ownership.

Watch part one here: https://youtu.be/HYGxmh8LeVY?si=d9_A4SGqtq0uBw_p

In this episode, we'll discuss ownership concentration, buy-sell planning, estate liquidity, family transition considerations and the challenges that can arise when a company becomes one of an owner's most significant assets. We also examine the questions many owners avoid, including who should take over, how a transfer of ownership should occur and whether current plans still align with future goals.

Whether you're planning to pass your company to family, management or a future buyer, the decisions made today can shape the options available tomorrow. This episode offers practical insights to help business owners think beyond day-to-day operations and prepare for the next chapter.

If you're watching on YouTube, be sure to like, subscribe and share your questions in the comments for future episodes. Prefer listening on the go? You can find Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow, rate and review the show, and send your questions to futurefocus@ameritas.com.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast

Whether you’re a business owner aiming to enhance your financial knowledge or someone interested in financial literacy, Future Focus is your go-to resource. Each episode provides practical tips covering topics like estate planning, managing risk, retirement strategies for business owners and much more.

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

This information is provided by Ameritas, which is a marketing name for subsidiaries of Ameritas Mutual Holding Company. Subsidiaries include Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. In Lincoln, Nebraska and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York (licensed in New York) in White Plains, New York. Each company is solely responsible for its own financial condition and contractual obligations. For more information about Ameritas, visit ameritas.com.

Ameritas and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

2026 Ameritas Mutual Holding Company

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

What Business Stage Are You In? Startup and Growth Part 1

Ameritas — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 11:00:00 -0400

If your business changed tomorrow, would your current plan still hold up? This episode of Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast explores why your business stage, particularly during the startup and growth phases, should shape the questions you ask, and how your answers to those same questions may change as your business grows.

In part one of this two-part conversation, the Future Focus team focuses on the startup and growth stages of the business journey. They discuss founder dependence, personal and business financial overlap, key employee risk, retention planning and business continuity.

In part two, the conversation moves to established, maturity and transition stages of a business, with a focus on value, liquidity, succession, legacy and what comes next.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast

Welcome to Future Focus, a podcast designed to make sense of complex financial topics. Hosted by Troy Branch, a professional with over 25 years in the financial services industry, this Ameritas advanced planning podcast offers engaging panel discussions that simplifies the jargon into straightforward insight. Whether you’re a business owner aiming to enhance your financial knowledge or someone interested in financial literacy, Future Focus is your go-to resource. Each episode provides practical tips covering topics like estate planning, managing risk, retirement strategies for business owners and much more.

Learn more about Ameritas: ameritas.com

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

This podcast is for information purposes only and will cover a variety of topics examining the role insurance and other financial products may play in financial decisions. The information presented here is not intended as tax, accounting, or other legal advice. If tax or other legal advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought. This information is provided by Ameritas, which is a marketing name for subsidiaries of Ameritas Mutual Holding Company. Subsidiaries include Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. In Lincoln, Nebraska and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York (licensed in New York) in White Plains, New York. Each company is solely responsible for its own financial condition and contractual obligations. For more information about Ameritas, visit ameritas.com. Ameritas and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. Fulfilling life is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company. 2026 Ameritas Mutual Holding Company

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

Financial Reflection and Mean Tweets: Listener Q&A #4

Ameritas — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 10:00:00 -0400

Reflection can be uncomfortable, but it’s often where the clearest insights come from. In this listener-driven episode of Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast, the team turns the lens inward, exploring how reflection can improve financial decision-making while sharing a few honest assessments of themselves along the way.

The discussion examines how to tell whether you're truly on track financially, which financial decisions people most often wish they had slowed down on and whether it's ever too late to change course. This episode also features humorous "mean tweets" for Keali Jo French, Jacob Messick, and Troy Branch as they reflect on their performance on Future Focus.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast

Learn more about Ameritas: ameritas.com

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Ameritas and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. Fulfilling life is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

2026 Ameritas Mutual Holding Company

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

Financial Concepts Explained: The No-Jargon Game

Ameritas — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0400

Looking for financial concepts explained without the industry jargon?

In this special episode, members of the Ameritas advanced planning team, Troy Branch, Jacob Messick and Keali Jo French, play “Pardon My Jargon. Can You Define That?” They turn financial planning, investing, retirement and tax terms into a fast-paced competition with one goal: making complex concepts simple.

Each participant is given common industry terms—like fiduciary, diversification, tax brackets and Roth conversions—and must explain them in plain language with zero jargon. A panel of judges scores each definition, and the highest score wins. It’s a fun test to show just how challenging, and important, it is to communicate financial concepts and strategies in a way people can truly understand.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

2026 Ameritas Mutual Holding Company

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

Life Insurance Ownership: Myth or Reality - Part 2

Ameritas — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 12:00:00 -0400

Who will actually receive your life insurance benefit—and what happens if something goes wrong? In this episode, we break down common life insurance ownership mistakes for beneficiaries that can derail even the best plan and leave outcomes to chance. A life insurance beneficiary is the person or entity you name to receive your policy’s death benefit. This myth or reality episode covers common beneficiary mistakes or misunderstandings. Learn why naming a contingent beneficiary matters, what happens when minors are listed as beneficiaries and how failing to review your policy after major life events can lead to probate delays or benefits going to the wrong person. Avoiding these beneficiary mistakes can help ensure your intentions are carried out as planned.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe and drop your questions in the comments for future episodes.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Ameritas and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. Fulfilling life is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

2026 Ameritas Mutual Holding Company

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

Life Insurance Ownership: Myth or Reality - Part 1

Ameritas — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0400

Think your life insurance ownership is set up correctly? It might not be, and small mistakes can lead to big tax and estate consequences. In this episode of Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast, we break down “myth or reality” scenarios, including the risks of having different owners, insureds and beneficiaries, why you might want to consider naming a successor, and how poor structuring can lead to unintended outcomes. You’ll also learn how ownership impacts estate taxes and what “incidents of ownership” really mean for your policy. Watch this episode to help ensure your life insurance coverage works the way you intend. Don’t forget to like, subscribe and drop your questions in the comments for future episodes. Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast Welcome to Future Focus, a podcast designed to make sense of complex financial topics. Hosted by Troy Branch, a professional with over 25 years in the financial services industry, this Ameritas advanced planning podcast offers engaging panel discussions that simplifies the jargon into straightforward insight. Whether you’re a business owner aiming to enhance your financial knowledge or someone interested in financial literacy, Future Focus is your go-to resource. Each episode provides practical tips covering topics like estate planning, managing risk, retirement strategies for business owners and much more. Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/ Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus Disclosures This podcast is for information purposes only and will cover a variety of topics examining the role insurance and other financial products may play in financial decisions. The information presented here is not intended as tax, accounting, or other legal advice. If tax or other legal advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought. This information is provided by Ameritas, which is a marketing name for subsidiaries of Ameritas Mutual Holding Company. Subsidiaries include Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. In Lincoln, Nebraska and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York (licensed in New York) in White Plains, New York. Each company is solely responsible for its own financial condition and contractual obligations. For more information about Ameritas, visit ameritas.com. Ameritas and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. Fulfilling life is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company. 2026 Ameritas Mutual Holding Company Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

Retirement Readiness: Breaking Down Financial Planning

Ameritas — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0400

Are you truly retirement-ready — or just guessing? In this episode of Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast, we’re breaking down financial planning and what retirement readiness really means, along with the steps that matter most.

We cover what financial planning looks like in practice, when it makes sense to work with a financial professional and where insurance and annuities can fit into a retirement strategy. This episode will help you understand your current position, define your goals and build a strategy that adapts over time.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe and drop your questions in the comments for future episodes.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Withdrawals and loans will reduce available death benefit and policy value. Withdrawals beyond basis may be taxable income. Excessive and unpaid loans will reduce death benefits and policy value and may cause the policy to lapse. If a policy lapses, unpaid loans are treated as distributions for tax purposes.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and will cover a variety of topics examining the role insurance and other financial products may play in financial decisions. The information presented here is not intended as tax, accounting, or other legal advice. If tax or other legal advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought.

Ameritas and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. Fulfilling life is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

2026 Ameritas Mutual Holding Company

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

Your Biggest Financial Questions Answered: Listener Q&A #3

Ameritas — Tue, 19 May 2026 10:30:00 -0400

Your biggest financial questions answered in this episode: Are you doing all the “right” things for retirement, but still not sure where you actually stand?

In this listener episode of Future Focus, we tackle questions we hear all the time from people who feel like they should be on track, but don’t have a clear picture of their progress. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. This episode is all about making retirement planning feel more manageable.

In this episode, we cover:

- How to organize your finances using a simple three-part framework.

- What it really means to be “saving enough” for retirement.

- How market timing can impact early retirement years.

- What RMDs are and why they matter for future taxes.

Most financial uncertainty doesn’t come from lack of effort—it comes from lack of clarity. This episode is designed to help you connect the dots and move forward with more confidence.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe and drop your questions in the comments for future episodes.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Ameritas and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

2026 Ameritas Mutual Holding Company

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

Passing On a Business: What Business Owners Need to Consider

Ameritas — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0400

In the final episode of this three-part series, Future Focus brings business and personal planning together, exploring what ultimately matters most: outcomes. When it comes to passing on a business, what does it look like when you’re ready to move it on to the next generation?

This episode discusses navigating equity and fairness between active and inactive children in your business, understanding why the value you think your business will sell for isn’t always accurate, and aligning business exit decisions with personal finance goals.

Listeners will hear practical, high‑level insights on aligning business goals with personal priorities, planning for real‑world outcomes (not just ideal ones), and reframing success beyond the transaction itself.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe and drop your questions in the comments for future episodes.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

This information is provided by Ameritas®, which is a marketing name for subsidiaries of Ameritas Mutual Holding Company. Subsidiaries include Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. In Lincoln, Nebraska and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York (licensed in New York) in White Plains, New York. Each company is solely responsible for its own financial condition and contractual obligations. For more information about Ameritas®, visit ameritas.com.

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

How to Build Enterprise Value: Key People, Systems and Contingency Plans

Ameritas — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:01:00 -0400

In this episode of Future Focus, host Troy Branch is joined by Ameritas advanced planning colleagues, Keali Jo French and Jacob Messick, to explore how to build enterprise value long before an exit. The conversation focuses on people, systems and owner dependency—and why businesses that rely too heavily on key individuals often face hidden limitations.

We cover:

- Retaining key people and the role of long‑term incentives.

- When owner dependency caps growth and value.

- Key person risk, continuity and succession readiness.

- What buyers and successors look for in scalable businesses.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe and drop your questions in the comments for future episodes.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

Choosing Your Business Entity: The Tax Decisions That Last

Ameritas — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 12:01:00 -0400

Future Focus is kicking off a three‑episode business‑owner series about the decisions business owners make that have long‑lasting effects. In part one, we examine choosing your business entity and how early structure decisions can impact future taxes, flexibility and long‑term outcomes.

The core questions we discuss in this episode include:

- Should a pass-through business owner own permanent life insurance inside their business or should they own it personally?

- How do business owners think about getting retained earnings out of their pass-through business?

- Are today’s income tax decisions creating unanticipated problems such as larger capital gains?

Along the way, we discuss how tax efficiency alone isn’t a strategy. Structure and sequencing matter, and early decisions can limit future options.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe and drop your questions in the comments for future episodes.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus 

Disclosures

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

Estate Planning in 2026: What Families Really Need to Know

Ameritas — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:01:00 -0400

It’s now 2026 and the estate and gift tax exemption remains near $15 million. So what should families actually be doing now?

In this episode, we discuss estate planning for families with practical tips for readiness, flexibility and smart decision‑making that applies regardless of exemption levels.

You’ll learn:

- Where the estate and gift tax landscape truly stands in 2026.

- Why complacency can be risky.

- Core estate planning documents every family should have.

- How to involve younger generations and loved ones in your planning process.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe and drop your questions in the comments for future episodes.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

Your Biggest Financial Questions Answered: Listener Q&A #2

Ameritas — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 11:01:00 -0500

Your biggest financial questions answered in this special listener Q&A episode as the Future Focus team dives into real financial questions from real listeners. We cover smart ways to pay for education, whether 529 plans still make sense with fewer kids going to college and how to handle an inherited IRA under the 10‑year rule. We’ll discuss:

- 529 basics, tax benefits and alternatives.

- New 529-to-Roth IRA rules.

- Funding education vs. funding opportunity.

- Strategies for managing inherited IRA withdrawals.

- How timing and tax planning shape long‑term flexibility.

Be sure to like, subscribe and drop your questions in the comments for future episodes.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus 

Disclosures

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

2026 Personal Finance Reset - Part 2

Ameritas — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0500

In case you missed it, go back and watch part one of 2026 Personal Finance Reset: https://youtu.be/IKLv30Fhx5k. Now that you’ve reviewed your financial starting point for the new year, part two dives into the next steps: reviewing your insurance protection, strengthening your retirement plan and getting ahead of tax season. This episode of Future Focus breaks down simple, practical moves to keep your money organized and on track for the year.

In this episode:

- Insurance and risk protection: Update life, disability and health coverage to match your current situation.

- Retirement planning: Review contributions, increase savings rates and rebalance your investments for 2026.

- Tax prep: Organize documents early and explore deductible contributions before filing.

Start the year strong with clear next steps and connect with your financial professional.

Subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes and listener Q&A sessions. Drop your questions in the comments—we might feature them in an upcoming episode!

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/ 

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

2026 Personal Finance Reset - Part 1

Ameritas — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0500

Welcome to a brand‑new year — and a brand‑new chance to take control of your money. Think of this episode as your 2026 personal finance reset. Troy Branch sits down with Jacob Messick and Keali Jo French to break down three of the most important financial steps you should take at the start of 2026.

Whether you’re trying to get organized, set meaningful money goals or finally understand your full financial picture, this conversation will help you start the year with clarity and confidence.

1. Reflect on 2025

Before you plan ahead, you need to understand where you’ve been. We walk through how to review last year’s spending, identify overspending patterns, evaluate your savings and emergency fund, and clean up lingering subscriptions.

2. Set (or revisit) your 2026 financial goals

Short‑term. Mid‑term. Long‑term. We talk about how to categorize your goals, measure progress on last year’s priorities, and translate big ideas into actionable steps you can actually stick with.

3. Review your net worth

Your net worth is your financial snapshot — and reviewing it annually can show growth, gaps and opportunities. We cover how to gather your info, calculate assets minus liabilities, compare to prior years, and use the insights to guide your 2026 plan.

Subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes and listener Q&A sessions. Drop your questions in the comments—we might feature them in an upcoming episode!

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

Useful Retirement Planning Tips and Common Myths

Ameritas — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0500

Retirement planning can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of Future Focus, host Troy Branch shares useful retirement planning tips as he talks with Jacob Messick from the advanced planning team and Andrew Gunning from Ameritas retirement plans to clear up common myths and mistakes people make with their retirement accounts.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

- Why you can’t take your required minimum distribution whenever you want.

- The differences between Roth IRAs and Roth 401(k)s.

- How to make sure you’re getting your company match.

- And more practical tips to keep your retirement strategy on track.

Watch this episode for retirement planning tips for your future.

Subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes and listener Q&A sessions. Drop your questions in the comments—we might feature them in an upcoming episode!

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

The One Big Beautiful Bill Explained: Myth or Reality - Part 2

Ameritas — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 11:30:00 -0500

Welcome back to part two of The One Big Beautiful Bill explained. In this episode, host Troy Branch continues the conversation with Jacob Messick and Keali Jo French as we dive deeper into the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, or OB3 as the team calls it, and what it means for business owners and estate planning strategies.

We’re tackling more myths vs. realities, including:

- Estate tax changes and why planning now matters.

- The lifetime exemption jump to $15M in 2026 and how to use it strategically.

- Pass-through deductions and what OB3 really changes.

- Bonus depreciation made permanent and new flexibility for businesses.

If you thought OB3 was just about individual taxpayers, think again. These changes could reshape how you plan for your business and your legacy.

Watch Part 1 here for an overview of OB3’s impact on individuals and families: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WaSI8Sz8SZI&list=PL-Jiii398EU4AGVoAHuW--08Wd6LH0tsx&index=1&pp=iAQB

Subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes and listener Q&A sessions. Drop your questions in the comments—we might feature them in an upcoming episode!

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Information is gathered from sources believed to be reliable; however, we cannot guarantee their accuracy.

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

Your Biggest Financial Questions Answered: Listener Q&A #1

Ameritas — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0500

In this special episode of Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast, we’re flipping the script to bring your biggest financial questions answered by our team. This listener-driven Q&A tackles the topics you care about most, including:

- How much do you really need to retire comfortably?

- How do families handle estate equalization in second marriages?

- When should businesses start thinking about executive compensation?

- At what net worth should estate planning become a priority?

This episode is packed with practical insights to help you navigate your financial future.

We’ll be answering listener questions every fifth episode, so don’t forget to like, subscribe and comment with your questions.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

The One Big Beautiful Bill Explained: Myth or Reality – Part 1

Ameritas — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Future Focus, Troy Branch and his colleagues, Jacob Messick and Keali Jo French, deliver One Big Beautiful Bill explained, or as they call it, OB3. And yes, this is a Star Wars reference. The team discusses the OB3 tax bill and what it means for individual taxpayers, families and high-net-worth individuals.

We discuss what components of OB3 are myth vs. reality, covering these topics:

- OB3’s impact on middle-class taxpayers.

- New standard deductions.

- Expanded Child Tax Credit & Education Savings Credit.

- SALT cap changes.

- Charitable contribution deductions.

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss part two of our discussion, where we’ll explore OB3’s effects on business owners and estate planning. Leave a question in the comments section below to be answered in an upcoming listener question episode.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Information is gathered from sources believed to be reliable; however, we cannot guarantee their accuracy.

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

Navigating Business Owner Stress: Taxes, Talent & Legacy Planning

Ameritas — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 11:01:00 -0400

In this episode of Future Focus, host Troy Branch sits down with financial professional, Keith Gillies, to explore the main sources of business owner stress and what can be done to navigate them. Keith brings decades of experience and a sharp focus on helping business owners thrive.

Together, they unpack the biggest challenges facing business owners today—from taxes and succession planning to cash flow, employee retention, and balancing personal and business wealth. Keith shares his experience helping owners navigate these issues and their financial future.

Topics covered:

- Tax planning with intention.

- Succession and legacy: why it matters.

- Recruiting, retaining, and rewarding key talent.

- Shifting the mindset of personal vs. business wealth.

Like, subscribe and drop your questions in the comments for future episodes!

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

The information presented here is not intended as tax or other legal advice. For application of this information to your specific situation, you should consult an attorney.

Keith Gillies is not an affiliate of Ameritas or any of its affiliates.

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

What Happens When the Paycheck Stops in Retirement?

Ameritas — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 11:01:00 -0400

When most people think about retirement, they imagine a permanent vacation—but what happens when the paycheck stops in retirement? It’s not just a lifestyle change; it’s a cash flow event. In this episode of Future Focus, we ask the critical question: Two weeks after you retire, where is your paycheck coming from?

We’ll explore:

- The myth of “I’ve saved enough, I’ll just draw it down.”

- Risks that threaten retirement income (Sequence of Returns Risk, tax inefficiency, market volatility).

- The role of guaranteed income in retirement from pensions, social security and annuities.

Guarantees are based on the claims-paying ability of the issuing company.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com 

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

In approved states, annuities are issued by Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. In New York, annuities are issued by Ameritas Life Insurance of New York. Policies and riders may vary and may not be availalbe in all states. Optional riders may have limitations, restrictions and additional charges.

Guarantees are based on the claims-paying ability of the issuing company.

Withdrawals may be taxable and, if taken prior to age 59 1/2, a 10% penalty tax may apply.

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

Top 5 Reasons to Use Life Insurance in Modest Estates

Ameritas — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 13:00:00 -0400

Looking for reasons to use life insurance in estates? On this episode of Future Focus, we're diving into how life insurance can be a powerful, multifunctional tool, especially in modest estates. Just like football fans build their dream teams, host Troy Branch and his guests are making the case for their top five reasons to use life insurance in estates below the federal estate tax limit, covering topics like:

- Estate equalization

- Income replacement

- Tax and retirement planning

- Avoiding probate

- Charitable gifting

- Second marriages

- Supplementing income

Whether you're a financial professional or just wanting to learn about the many ways life insurance can fit into your financial strategy, this episode is for you.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

In approved states, life insurance is issued by Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. In New York, life insurance is issued by Ameritas Life Insurance of New York. Policies and riders may vary and may not be available in all states. Optional riders may have limitations, restrictions, and additional charges.

This information is provided by Ameritas®, which is a marketing name for subsidiaries of Ameritas Mutual Holding Company. Subsidiaries include Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. in Lincoln, Nebraska and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York (licensed in New York) in White Plains, New York. Each company is solely responsible for its own financial condition and contractual obligations. For more information about Ameritas®, visit ameritas.com.

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

The Retirement Income Puzzle Part 2: How to Plan for Flexibility in Retirement

Ameritas — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 13:01:00 -0400

In part two of our retirement income puzzle, we explore possible advantages of having tax-free income during your retirement years and the common pitfalls to avoid when pursuing a tax-free strategy.

We cover how the different tax buckets of taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free can impact your income during retirement, including considerations of liquidity needs and flexibility options.

There are risks and tradeoffs to consider, including funding challenges, poor planning design and the danger of a one-size-fits-all approach. The key takeaway? Don’t chase tax-free income blindly. Understand how different options work together to provide the flexibility you need in your retirement years.

Watch the part one episode of the retirement income puzzle if you missed it: https://youtu.be/L0H8h4f_kNY?si=v-QC7IcFpEW8cDGL

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

The Retirement Income Puzzle Part 1: Understanding Tax Buckets

Ameritas — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 12:30:00 -0400

When planning for retirement, it's not just about how much you save, but how your savings are taxed and when. In this episode, we focus on understanding the three tax buckets, taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free as we talk about the retirement income puzzle.

We explore why most people focus on deferring taxes during their working years and why tax diversification might be the smarter end goal. Plus, we dive into powerful tools for creating tax-free income in retirement, including ROTH IRAs, ROTH 401(k)s, HSAs, municipal bonds and permanent life insurance. Watch to learn how to balance your retirement income strategy and make taxes work for you.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

AI’s Impact on Estate Planning

Ameritas — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 10:30:00 -0400

Estate planning has always been about more than just documents—it's about protecting your legacy and ensuring your final wishes are honored. But as technology evolves, so does the way we approach this deeply personal process.

In this episode, Troy sits down with Jon Forster, attorney at BakerHostetler, to explore how artificial intelligence is beginning to influence estate planning. From streamlining paperwork to enhancing collaboration between clients, attorneys, financial professionals, and accountants, AI is poised to make the process more efficient. But it can’t replace the emotional, human conversations essential to planning your legacy. It just might make the journey a little easier for everyone involved.

Whether you're planning your own estate or advising others, this conversation offers valuable insights into the future of legacy planning in a digital world.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

BakerHostetler is not an affiliate of Ameritas or any of its affiliates.

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas/

The Retirement Risk No One Talks About: Sequence of Return Risk

Ameritas — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 16:45:00 -0400

Most people focus on saving for retirement, but what about the risks that no one talks about for after you retire? In this episode, we break down Sequence of Return Risk. SORR is the impact that the timing of investment returns can have on your retirement savings, especially during the early years of withdrawal.

Using the powerful analogy of climbing and descending a mountain, we explain why preparing for retirement is only half the journey. The descent—how you take distributions—requires just as much strategy and care.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

- What Sequence of Return Risk is.

- Why it matters more than you think.

- How to prepare for both the climb and the descent.

Whether you're nearing retirement or a financial professional working with clients, this episode is helpful for anyone planning their retirement journey.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

Customizing Recruit, Retain & Reward Strategies for Key Employees

Ameritas — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 11:01:00 -0400

In part two of our deep dive into executive compensation, we go beyond the basics and explore the real value of recruit, retain, and reward strategies. Building loyalty, aligning long-term goals and creating financial advantages for both the employee and the business owner are just some examples.

Check out part one of our executive compensation conversation if you missed it: https://youtu.be/jls0aRFNwFM?si=BRZyxL1gt6qQ4TBB

We continue our “Myth or Reality” discussion in this episode and tackle the questions:

- How do these strategies also help benefit the business owner?

- What are additional benefits for the key employees beyond compensation?

- And why is a customized approach better than one-size-fits-all?

Plus, we explore why life insurance is often a powerful and flexible tool in executive compensation, offering both death benefit protection for the key employee, as well as cost recovery and tax advantages for the business.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Loans and withdrawals will reduce the policy's death benefit and available cash value. Excessive loans or withdrawals may cause the policy to lapse. Unpaid loans are treated as a distribution for tax purposes and may result in taxable income.

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas

Executive Compensation Explained: How to Recruit, Retain and Reward Key Employees

Ameritas — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 10:30:00 -0400

What would happen if your top employee didn’t show up tomorrow? In this episode, we break down executive compensation strategies—including nonqualified deferred compensation (NQDC), key person benefits and bonus plans—to help business owners attract, retain and reward top talent.

Join us as we play “Myth or Reality” and answer key questions: Is executive compensation only for big corporations? Where do these conversations really begin? How do business size and tax considerations affect your options?

This episode offers practical insights into building competitive compensation plans that work.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas/

What is the Retirement Gap for Business Owners?

Ameritas — Mon, 05 May 2025 17:01:00 -0400

Troy talks with guest, Tom Bacharach from RMC Group, to discuss the retirement gap for business owners. Troy and Tom look at the differences between 401(k), cash balance, and 412(e)(3) retirement plans to analyze options for business owners to meet their retirement goals.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Information is gathered from sources believed to be reliable; however, we cannot guarantee its accuracy. Information provided should not be construed as investment advice or the solicitation of any investment or insurance product. Please consult with your financial representative before investing.

RMC Group is not an affiliate of Ameritas or any of its affiliates.

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas/

Why Should Business Owners Consider a Defined Benefit Plan?

Ameritas — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 11:27:00 -0400

Troy talks with guest, Tom Bacharach from RMC Group, to discuss retirement and tax planning for business owners. Business owners have specific retirement needs and may want to consider a defined benefit plan to meet their goals. These plans may also help with tax deductions while providing income during retirement. Check out this episode to hear Troy and Tom explain the difference between defined contribution and defined benefit plans.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast 

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

RMC Group is not an affiliate of Ameritas or any of its affiliates.

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas/

Why Do Business Owners Need a Succession Plan?

Ameritas — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 10:01:00 -0400

If you’re a business owner and you have a vision for how you’d like your business to continue after you’re no longer involved, you need a documented succession plan. This can help you distribute your business fairly to your spouse, remaining heirs and other interested parties whether you leave your business for retirement, disability, death or other reason. This episode will walk you through items to consider for a business succession plan and the importance of regularly reviewing and updating the plan.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas/

Everyone Needs an Estate Plan

Ameritas — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 18:44:00 -0400

The Ameritas advanced planning team discusses why everyone needs an estate plan, not just the wealthy. Knowing the basics of estate planning is important for anyone with any kind of asset, no matter its worth. It can help you determine exactly who you want your properties distributed to, and it puts the management of that disbursement into the hands of someone you trust. In the end, creating an estate plan gives you control over your properties even after you’re gone.

Future Focus: A Financial Strategies Podcast

Learn more about Ameritas: https://www.ameritas.com/about/

Find a financial professional who can help: https://www.ameritas.com/contact/find-a-financial-professional/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=future-focus

Disclosures

Ameritas® and the bison design are registered service marks of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

Fulfilling life® is a registered service mark of affiliate Ameritas Holding Company.

Careers: https://www.ameritas.com/careers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ameritas/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ameritaslife/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ameritas/