The Money and Meaning Show

Rethinking Portfolio Diversification with Phil Huber

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier welcomes Phil Huber, Managing Director and Head of Portfolio Solutions at Cliffwater. Phil is also the author of The Allocator’s Edge, a modern guide to alternative investments and portfolio diversification. They discuss the evolving role of alternative investments, the challenges facing traditional 60/40 portfolios, and how private markets and new fund structures are reshaping opportunities for financial advisors and individual investors. This episode is essential listening for those looking to build more resilient, well-diversified investment strategies.
Topics covered:
Phil Huber’s background and career journey in wealth management and alternative investing
The definition and misconceptions of alternative investments
The rise of private credit, private equity, and interval funds
Why liquidity matters and how it impacts returns
Challenges of the traditional 60/40 portfolio in today’s market environment
The role of private markets in retirement income planning
How rising bond yields affect portfolio allocation decisions
Key considerations for investors exploring alternative investments
Useful Links:
Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jeffberniercfp_the-money-and-meaning-show-activity-7202103509700227072-h0Qn/
Phil Huber on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-huber
Cliffwater: https://www.cliffwater.com/
TandemGrowth Financial Advisors: https://www.tandemgrowth.com/

February Perspectives

In this special "Money & Meaning Perspectives" episode, host Jeff Bernier shares key insights from recent readings and market trends to help listeners make informed financial decisions. He explores the concept of financial bubbles, including lessons from historical market cycles and current concerns surrounding the concentration of a few major stocks. Jeff also discusses recent breakthroughs in artificial intelligence with the rise of DeepSeek and its potential impact on industries, alongside the importance of international diversification in investment strategies. Tune in for a concise yet insightful update on market trends and strategic investing.
Topics covered:
The concept of financial bubbles and historical market cycles
Lessons from the 1920s auto industry and the 1999 dot-com boom
Insights from Howard Marks on market valuation concerns
The rise of DeepSeek AI and its disruptive impact on the tech sector
Comparisons between the current AI boom and past technological revolutions
The importance of international diversification in investment portfolios
U.S. market dominance and historical parallels with Japan’s market rise
Valuation considerations when investing in different global markets
The role of diversification in managing investment risk
Useful Links:
Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jeffberniercfp_the-money-and-meaning-show-activity-7202103509700227072-h0Qn/
TandemGrowth Financial Advisors: https://www.tandemgrowth.com/

Understanding Risk Management with Hunter Ewing

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier interviews Hunter Ewing, co-founder and director of Private Lines Insurance at Higher Ground Risk. They explore the essentials of risk management, including protecting assets, managing liability, and understanding insurance coverage in today’s evolving insurance market. Hunter shares industry insights, practical advice, and personal anecdotes that highlight the importance of proactive financial protection.
Topics covered:
The fundamentals of risk management in personal financial planning
Common types of personal insurance: home, auto, umbrella, and valuable articles coverage
The impact of severe weather events on insurance costs
Key considerations when purchasing flood insurance
Recent industry changes in insurance underwriting and coverage
Misconceptions about personal insurance and financial planning integration
The importance of working with independent insurance agents
Best practices for maintaining adequate insurance coverage
How to evaluate insurance needs for new home purchases and renovations
Useful Links:
Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jeffberniercfp_the-money-and-meaning-show-activity-7202103509700227072-h0Qn/
Hunter Ewing on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hunter-ewing-5460a2a2
High Ground Company: https://www.highgroundcompany.com/copy-of-hunter-ewing 
Tandem Growth Financial Advisors: https://www.tandemgrowth.com/

Aligning Wealth with Purpose: Dr. Daniel Crosby on “The Soul of Wealth”

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier welcomes back Dr. Daniel Crosby, a New York Times bestselling author and Chief Behavioral Officer at Orion. Together, they discuss concepts from Crosby’s new book, The Soul of Wealth, exploring how financial well-being intersects with psychology and personal growth. From defining “soulful wealth” to the psychology behind money and happiness, the conversation offers practical insights on aligning financial decisions with what truly matters for a fulfilling life.
Topics covered: 
Overview of Dr. Crosby’s career and role as Chief Behavioral Officer at Orion 
Exploring The Soul of Wealth and its unique, contemplative format 
Defining “soulful wealth” and why wealth is about more than finances 
The impact of meaningful work on life satisfaction and wealth 
Research findings on money and happiness 
Spending habits that contribute to lasting happiness and fulfillment 
The link between generosity, well-being, and the concept of “wealth” 
Behavioral insights for better financial decision-making 
The importance of flexibility in financial planning to accommodate personal growth 
Unique financial strengths and investment tendencies of women 
Setting deeply personal, meaningful financial goals for stronger motivation
Useful Links: 
Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jeffberniercfp_the-money-and-meaning-show-activity-7202103509700227072-h0Qn/ 
Daniel Crosby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielcrosby 
Orion: https://orion.com/ 
TandemGrowth Financial Advisors: https://www.tandemgrowth.com/ 

Navigating Midlife Transitions and Financial Empowerment with Sherry Finkel Murphy

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier sits down with Sherry Finkel Murphy, founder and CEO of Madrina Molly LLC. Sherry is a seasoned financial planner who focuses on helping midlife women navigate the complexities of financial and longevity planning. They explore the challenges faced by women in the "Triple Decker Club Sandwich Generation," discuss strategies for reinventing life after 50, and dive into Sherry’s mission to provide financial education through her community platform, Madrina Molly. This conversation offers valuable insights for those seeking to align their financial resources with their personal values and life goals.
Topics covered: 
Challenges of the "Triple Decker Club Sandwich Generation" and its impact on midlife women. 
Sherry’s career journey from financial planner to the founder of Madrina Molly. 
Common financial and emotional struggles among midlife women, including shame around money. 
The importance of financial education and empowering women over 50. 
Strategies for reinventing life after 50, including Sherry’s concept of the “glide path.” 
Insights on longevity planning and how it intersects with health, location, financial, and purpose planning. 
The need for community and purpose in aging and retirement. 
Balancing caregiving responsibilities with personal ambitions and business pursuits. 
Building a supportive community for women navigating midlife transitions.
Useful Links: 
Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jeffberniercfp_the-money-and-meaning-show-activity-7202103509700227072-h0Qn/ 
Sherry Finkel Murphy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherryfinkelmurphy 
Madrina Molly: https://www.madrinamolly.com/ 
TandemGrowth Financial Advisors: https://www.tandemgrowth.com/ 

Elections and Markets 🗳️ with Apollo Lupescu, Vice President of Dimensional Fund Advisors

In this episode of the Money & Meaning Show, host Jeff Bernier welcomes Apollo Lupescu, Vice President of Dimensional Fund Advisors. Apollo, known as the “Secretary of Explaining Stuff,” discusses how investors can make sense of financial markets during election years. He shares his insights on investment philosophies, the impact of political events on markets, and strategies for maintaining focus amidst noise. Tune in to learn how to make more informed investment decisions in politically charged times. 
Topics Covered: 
Introduction to Apollo Lupescu and his journey with Dimensional Fund Advisors 
Overview of Dimensional’s investment philosophy and core principles 
How to think about market uncertainty during election years 
The historical performance of markets during election years and what investors can learn 
Debunking common myths about the impact of political policies on specific sectors 
Evaluating the economic burden of national debt and its influence on investment strategies 
The importance of focusing on data-driven decisions over emotional reactions 
Final thoughts on separating politics from investment decisions 
Useful Links: 
Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn 
Apollo on LinkedIn 
Dimensional Fund Advisors 
TandemGrowth Financial Advisors 
 

Financial Wellness and Purpose with James Grace

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier talks with James Grace, Director of Wealth Management at Silver Pine Capital and host of the Modern Financial Wellness podcast. They explore the evolving nature of the wealth management industry, emphasizing holistic financial planning that encompasses not just financial health but also personal fulfillment and purpose. James shares his journey through the financial services landscape and offers insights into how individuals can achieve financial wellness and well-being. Together, they discuss the importance of aligning actions and resources with personal values and goals.
Topics covered:
Introduction to James Grace and his role at Silver Pine Capital.
Evolution of the wealth management industry toward holistic planning.
Differences between financial wellness and financial well-being.
James's career path from biotech sales to wealth management.
The role of behavioral finance and client discovery in financial planning.
The significance of aligning financial strategies with personal values.
The importance of ongoing financial advice and support.
Business models in the financial advisory industry.
Insights from the Modern Financial Wellness podcast.
Useful Links:
Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn
James Grace on LinkedIn
Silver Pine Capital
Modern Financial Wellness Podcast
TandemGrowth Financial Advisors

Unpacking Reverse Mortgages: Myths, Benefits, and Strategic Uses with Gabrielle Welter

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier speaks with Gabrielle Welter, a retirement solutions manager at Finance of America. They explore the topic of reverse mortgages, dispelling common myths and misconceptions. Gabrielle explains how these financial tools can provide stability and peace of mind for retirees, addressing key challenges like healthcare costs and market volatility. The discussion delves into the specifics of Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECMs), including their benefits, costs, and strategic uses in retirement planning.
Topics Covered:
Introduction to reverse mortgages and common misconceptions
Gabrielle Welter's background and career journey
The evolution and safety measures of reverse mortgages
Strategic uses of HECMs in retirement planning
The financial and psychological benefits of reverse mortgages
Differences between HECMs and traditional mortgages
Suitability and scenarios for using reverse mortgages
Costs and insurance protection associated with HECMs
Resources for further information on reverse mortgages
Useful Links:
Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn
Gabrielle Welter on LinkedIn
Finance of America
TandemGrowth Financial Advisors