Sterling Insights

Tune into Sterling Insights: Stand Out & Supercharge Your Assets, the premier podcast for financial advisors in growth mode who serve high net worth clients. If you work with clients who own appreciated capital assets and are looking to sell without incurring capital gains taxes, this show is for you. Each episode features insights and strategies from top financial advisors, experienced lawyers, and knowledgeable CPAs. Learn practical solutions to help your clients maximize their wealth while minimizing taxes, and discover how to grow your assets under management. Join us on Sterling Insights and empower your advisory practice with the knowledge to succeed.

  1. 1D AGO

    Tax Strategy, IRS Relief, and Building a Virtual CPA Firm

    What if your tax problem isn’t actually a tax problem—but a bookkeeping one? Or what if the IRS doesn’t need to be feared, just better understood? This episode dives into the overlooked strategies and real-world solutions that could change the financial future of high-income earners and business owners.In this episode of Sterling Insights, guest host Tracy McCary sits down with Adam Remis, CPA and founder of The Accounting Doctor. Together, they explore how advanced tax strategy and resolution can transform a client’s financial—and even physical—well-being, sharing valuable insights and practical tips for listeners. Adam draws from his 28+ years of experience to discuss how to effectively handle tax debt, avoid costly mistakes, and optimize taxes for high earners, offering actionable advice for wealth advisors, business owners, and high-income individuals. This episode is a must-listen for advisors with high-net-worth clients or anyone seeking smarter, proactive ways to tackle tax complexity.Key Takeaways:● Tax Resolution is More Than Numbers: Addressing tax debt isn’t just financial—it can dramatically improve a client’s mindset, health, and quality of life.● Don't DIY the IRS: Trying to resolve issues with the IRS yourself can backfire. Adam explains why professional representation matters.● Virtual Firms Are Winning: Adam shares how his remote model helps him recruit top talent and serve clients nationwide without geographic limitations.● Tax Misconceptions Hurt Clients: Many people unknowingly overpay or misreport—leading to years of unnecessary stress or tax court battles.● Advanced Strategies for High Earners: Adam reveals how clients earning $400k+ can use overlooked strategies to reduce income and capital gains taxes.Quotes from Adam Remis:● "Helping clients resolve their IRS debt isn’t just about money—it’s about lifting a massive psychological burden."● "Doing it yourself with the IRS is like representing yourself in criminal court. You need an expert in your corner."● "The details matter. We’ve saved clients tens of thousands simply by doing the digging their previous CPAs didn’t."Whether you're an advisor looking to better support high-net-worth clients or someone navigating complex tax issues yourself, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how smart strategy—and the right partner—can make all the difference.Connect with Adam:Website:  https://www.theaccountingdoctor.comLinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-b-remis-msim-cpa-l-i-o-n-b354b1/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    19 min
  2. 3D AGO

    Understanding Employment Law: Workplace Rights & Wrongful Termination

    Think your job termination was unfair—and maybe even illegal? You’re not alone. But the difference between “unfair” and “unlawful” is more complex than most people realize. This episode dives deep into what employees (and employers) need to know about their rights in the workplace.In this episode of Sterling Insights, guest host Peter Florio sits down with employment attorney Raymond Nardo, a seasoned legal expert with over 30 years of experience in labor and employment law. Together, they explore the realities of employment law, sharing valuable insights and practical tips for listeners. Raymond draws from his extensive experience to discuss wrongful termination, wage and hour disputes, discrimination claims, and the misconceptions employees often have about their rights, offering actionable advice for anyone navigating workplace challenges. This episode is a must-listen for professionals, business owners, HR managers, and employees facing tough job transitions, providing both knowledge and tools to understand and protect your rights.Key Takeaways:● The Harsh Truth About Employment at Will: Most private-sector employees can be terminated for any reason—or no reason at all—unless specific legal protections apply.● Unfair ≠ Illegal: Many workplace terminations may feel unfair but don't meet the legal threshold for wrongful termination or discrimination.● Wage & Hour Laws Are a Legal Minefield for Employers: Employers often violate wage laws without realizing it—missing notices, misclassifying employees, or improperly calculating overtime.● Discrimination Protections Exist—but Proof Is Key: Laws protect against discrimination based on race, gender, age, and more, but proving it can be difficult and requires strong documentation.● Legal Action Isn’t the Only Path: Sometimes, a well-crafted letter or negotiation can resolve disputes without litigation, especially when handled by an experienced advocate.Quotes from Raymond Nardo:● "Law and justice are distant cousins when it comes to employment law."● "Nine out of ten people who call me don’t have a case—because employment at will gives employers broad leeway."● "Even if we don’t win a case, we raise awareness—and that can change how employers operate going forward."🔗 Conclusion:Whether you’re an employee wondering if your termination was legal, or an employer navigating compliance, understanding the realities of employment law is critical. This episode sheds light on the rights, risks, and real-world processes behind workplace disputes.Connect with Raymond: Website:  https://www.raynardo.com/With Your Guest Host Peter Florio:Peter F. Florio, CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®, CExP™, CLTC®, is the Founder and Managing Partner of The Florio Wealth Management Group in Westbury, NY. With nearly 40 years of experience, he provides comprehensive wealth, tax, and financial planning for high-net-worth individuals and business owners across the country.Connect with Peter:Website: https://www.floriowmg.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/florio-wealth-management-group/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floriowmgCalendly: https://calendly.com/floriowmg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    26 min
  3. FEB 5

    How Proactive Legal Strategy Protects Growing Businesses

    Most business owners think of legal help as something they’ll need later—but what if legal strategy could actually drive better decisions and prevent costly problems before they ever appear?In this episode of Sterling Insights, guest host Seth Krussman sits down with Blaine Clooten, attorney at Brownstein Rask and a seasoned advisor to entrepreneurs, executives, and closely held businesses. Together, they explore how legal strategy shows up in real business decisions—not just in the courtroom, sharing valuable insights and practical tips for business owners and advisors alike. Blaine draws from his diverse background in business, litigation, and judging to discuss the risks business owners often overlook, offering actionable advice for those navigating contracts, partnerships, growth, and succession. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, operating executives, and advisors who support business owners, providing both knowledge and tools to build stronger, more resilient businesses.Key Takeaways:● Proactive vs. Reactive Legal Strategy: Waiting until there’s a problem limits your options—early legal involvement can protect relationships and reduce costs.● Contracts Are Business Marriages: Too many business owners rush contracts without aligning them to their actual goals, leading to future disputes.● Legal Counsel as Strategic Advisor: Good lawyers aren’t just for lawsuits—they're part of your growth and decision-making team.● AI Can’t Replace Legal Judgment: Online tools may generate documents, but they can’t spot your unique risks—or defend you in court.● Annual Legal Checkups Matter: Businesses evolve, and so should your legal documents. Regular reviews help avoid compounding issues.Quotes from Blaine Clooten:● “Most people wait until the problem is at their doorstep—by then, your options are limited and expensive.”● “Signing a contract is like getting married—if you wouldn’t rush that, don’t rush the paperwork that ties your finances to someone else’s.”● “The farther we get with technology, the more important trust-based relationships become in law and business.”🔗 Conclusion:Legal strategy isn’t about slowing you down—it’s about giving you clarity, confidence, and control before problems arise. If you’re building something meaningful, this episode will help you protect it. Connect with Blaine:Website:  https://brownsteinrask.com/attorneys/blaine-clooten YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@clootenlawyer LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/clooten/ With Your Guest Host Seth Krussman:Seth Krussman is a seasoned financial advisor and partner at Brayshaw Financial Group, LLC, with over 30 years of experience in entrepreneurship, business development, and wealth management. A Registered Representative and Investment Advisor Representative with Osaic Wealth, Inc., Seth specializes in tax-efficient investment strategies, executive compensation, and succession planning for high-net-worth clients. Based in Hillsboro, Oregon, he is also the nationally recognized co-host of the radio show Money On Tap and an active community leader, husband, and father.Connect with Seth:Website:  https://www.brayshawfinancial.com/Podcast:  https://www.brayshawfinancial.com/money-on-tapFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/3Dinvesting/X:  https://x.com/BFG_LLC/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 2m
  4. FEB 4

    From Pharma to Real Estate: Building Trust and Thriving in Commercial & Residential Markets

    What does it really take to thrive in real estate for nearly three decades—through changing markets, interest rate spikes, and personal reinvention? This episode explores how longevity, trust, and adaptability can create a resilient real estate career. In this episode of Sterling Insights, guest host Tracy McCary sits down with Greg Roberts, a seasoned real estate consultant with expertise in both residential and commercial real estate. Together, they explore how building trust and adapting to market shifts has sustained Greg’s business since the mid-90s, sharing valuable insights and practical tips for listeners. Greg draws from his extensive experience to discuss interest rate fluctuations, client evolution, and the shift from cold calls to warm referrals, offering actionable advice for advisors, realtors, and professionals serving high-net-worth individuals. This episode is a must-listen for real estate professionals, financial advisors, and business owners navigating growth in volatile markets, providing both knowledge and tools to navigate this important subject. Key Takeaways: ● Adaptability is Key: Greg transitioned from pharmaceuticals to real estate and grew with the industry—adapting from entry-level buyers to million-dollar clients. ● Trust Drives Referrals: After decades in the business, most of Greg’s leads now come from word of mouth, not advertising. ● Commercial Real Estate as a Growth Lever: Expanding into commercial deals re-energized his business and client relationships. ● Interest Rates are Psychological as Much as Financial: Greg offers context on how consumers perceive 7% rates vs. the recent anomaly of 2–3%. ● Being a "Truth Teller" Pays Off: Greg’s honest approach—telling clients what they need to hear, not just what they want—has built long-term credibility. Quotes from Greg Roberts: ● "I tell you the truth—even if it costs me the listing." ● "You don't know what you don't know—and that's where a trusted advisor matters." ● "I become family to my clients for 30, 60, 90 days during a deal—and then I may not hear from them for two years." 🔗 Conclusion: Whether you're an advisor, real estate pro, or just curious about sustaining success over the long haul, this episode delivers powerful lessons on trust, client service, and staying relevant in a shifting market. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    18 min
  5. FEB 3 · BONUS

    From Pharma to Real Estate: Building Trust and Thriving in Commercial & Residential Markets

    What does it really take to thrive in real estate for nearly three decades—through changing markets, interest rate spikes, and personal reinvention? This episode explores how longevity, trust, and adaptability can create a resilient real estate career. In this episode of Sterling Insights, guest host Tracy McCary sits down with Greg Roberts, a seasoned real estate consultant with expertise in both residential and commercial real estate. Together, they explore how building trust and adapting to market shifts has sustained Greg’s business since the mid-90s, sharing valuable insights and practical tips for listeners. Greg draws from his extensive experience to discuss interest rate fluctuations, client evolution, and the shift from cold calls to warm referrals, offering actionable advice for advisors, realtors, and professionals serving high-net-worth individuals. This episode is a must-listen for real estate professionals, financial advisors, and business owners navigating growth in volatile markets, providing both knowledge and tools to navigate this important subject.Key Takeaways:● Adaptability is Key: Greg transitioned from pharmaceuticals to real estate and grew with the industry—adapting from entry-level buyers to million-dollar clients.● Trust Drives Referrals: After decades in the business, most of Greg’s leads now come from word of mouth, not advertising.● Commercial Real Estate as a Growth Lever: Expanding into commercial deals re-energized his business and client relationships.● Interest Rates are Psychological as Much as Financial: Greg offers context on how consumers perceive 7% rates vs. the recent anomaly of 2–3%.● Being a "Truth Teller" Pays Off: Greg’s honest approach—telling clients what they need to hear, not just what they want—has built long-term credibility.Quotes from Greg Roberts:● "I tell you the truth—even if it costs me the listing."● "You don't know what you don't know—and that's where a trusted advisor matters."● "I become family to my clients for 30, 60, 90 days during a deal—and then I may not hear from them for two years." 🔗 Conclusion:Whether you're an advisor, real estate pro, or just curious about sustaining success over the long haul, this episode delivers powerful lessons on trust, client service, and staying relevant in a shifting market. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    18 min
  6. JAN 29

    Avoiding Business Lawsuits: Expert Tips on Commercial Litigation

    Most business owners fear litigation—but what if the real danger lies in the mistakes made long before a lawsuit is ever filed?In this episode of Sterling Insights, Seth Krussman sits down with Josi Kovacs, a seasoned commercial litigator from one of the Pacific Northwest’s top boutique firms. Together, they explore how business owners can navigate and avoid complex litigation, sharing valuable insights and practical tips for listeners. Our guest draws from extensive trial and mediation experience to discuss common legal pitfalls, emotional decision-making, and the true cost of waiting too long to call an attorney, offering actionable advice for entrepreneurs, founders, and leaders of closely held businesses. This episode is a must-listen for anyone leading a growing business, providing both knowledge and tools to navigate legal risk before it escalates.Key Takeaways:● Litigation Is Rarely the End: Most lawsuits aren’t catastrophic, and there are always paths forward—if you know your options.● Write It Down: Business owners often skip documentation to preserve relationships, but this can create costly disputes later.● Call a Lawyer Early: Bringing in litigation counsel before things escalate can help resolve issues before a suit is ever filed.● Know Your Contracts: Many business leaders sign indemnity clauses without understanding them—until it’s too late.● Understand the Emotional Toll: Lawsuits aren’t just financial; they’re emotionally draining. Knowing that can shape better decisions.Quotes from the Josi:● “Litigation is such a stressful experience—even for seasoned businesspeople.”● “Litigation isn’t just expensive—it’s emotionally draining. You could be tied up for years, facing someone you no longer trust.”● “So many problems could be avoided if people just wrote things down. You don’t need legalese—just an email that says, ‘This is what we agreed to.”🔗 Conclusion:Complex litigation isn’t just about courtrooms—it's about strategy, emotion, and preparation. This episode offers a roadmap for business owners to protect themselves long before disputes arise.Connect with Josi:Website:  https://www.markowitzherbold.com/Josephine-Josi-Kovacs LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephine-kovacs/\With Your Guest Host Seth Krussman:Seth Krussman is a seasoned financial advisor and partner at Brayshaw Financial Group, LLC, with over 30 years of experience in entrepreneurship, business development, and wealth management. A Registered Representative and Investment Advisor Representative with Osaic Wealth, Inc., Seth specializes in tax-efficient investment strategies, executive compensation, and succession planning for high-net-worth clients. Based in Hillsboro, Oregon, he is also the nationally recognized co-host of the radio show Money On Tap and an active community leader, husband, and father.Connect with Seth:Website:  https://www.brayshawfinancial.com/Podcast:  https://www.brayshawfinancial.com/money-on-tapFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/3Dinvesting/X:  https://x.com/BFG_LLC/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    37 min
  7. JAN 27 · BONUS

    From Residential Sales to Commercial Real Estate Development

    In this episode of Sterling Insights, guest host Tracy McCary sits down with Taner Neighbors, a commercial real estate broker and third-generation real estate professional. Together, they explore the transition from residential real estate to commercial development, sharing valuable insights and practical tips for listeners navigating this complex industry. Tanner draws from his extensive experience to discuss the challenges of starting during a market crash, the evolving demands of the commercial sector, and how to bring value as a trusted advisor, offering actionable advice for professionals looking to elevate their role in real estate. This episode is a must-listen for advisors, brokers, and anyone eyeing a move into commercial real estate or development, providing both knowledge and tools to navigate this important subject. Key Takeaways: Start Where You Are: Launching a real estate career during the 2008 crash taught Tanner resilience, creativity, and long-term grit. Residential vs. Commercial: Why Tanner moved away from residential sales and how commercial real estate offers deeper value and specialization. The Power of Partnerships: How working with a seasoned developer has opened doors in capital raising and ground-up projects. Market Impact of Interest Rates: Understanding how even small interest rate changes drastically shift commercial property valuations. Become the Trusted Advisor: It’s not about being everywhere—it’s about evolving daily and being the expert people rely on. Quotes from Taner Neighbors: "I don't like selling houses—I enjoy the commercial side of things tremendously." "Interest rates 100,000% drive the commercial real estate market." "A true professional can make your life very easy. Time is something we can never get back." 🔗 Conclusion: This episode highlights what it takes to move beyond transactional real estate into a role of influence, strategy, and long-term impact. Whether you're advising high-net-worth clients or building your own real estate career, Taner’s journey offers both inspiration and a roadmap forward. Connect with Taner: LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/neighborssells/ Connect with Tracy: Website:  https://tracwealthmanagement.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    15 min
  8. JAN 22 · BONUS

    Estate Planning for High-Net-Worth Families: Trusts, Taxes & Probate Tips

    Think your estate plan is “simple”? Think again. This episode will make you rethink what it really takes to protect your family, your assets, and your legacy.In this episode of Sterling Insights, guest host Peter Florio sits down with attorney and estate planning expert Robin Maynard, partner at Marquesian Mayer. Together, they explore the complexities of estate planning for high-net-worth families, sharing valuable insights and practical tips for listeners. Robin draws from her extensive experience to discuss common pitfalls, tax-saving strategies, and why proper trust planning is essential. This episode is a must-listen for financial advisors, wealth managers, and families with significant assets, providing both knowledge and tools to navigate this important subject.Key Takeaways:● Trusts Simplify—and Speed Up—the Estate Process: Avoid probate delays by ensuring assets are properly titled within a trust.● Tax Law Is a Moving Target: Estate plans must include flexibility to adapt to evolving federal and state tax laws.● Family Dynamics Can Complicate Estates: Proactive planning minimizes family conflict and emotional strain after a death.● Everyone Thinks Their Estate Is “Simple”—Until It Isn’t: Even straightforward estates come with complexities most people overlook.● Collaborating with Financial Advisors Is Critical: Integrated planning between legal and financial professionals leads to better outcomes for clients.Quotes from Robin Maynard:● “Every conversation starts with, ‘This is simple,’ and then it never is.”● “People don’t realize their estate plan fails if their trust is empty.”● “The bureau will take your money for tuition, but won’t give you a refund check without a power of attorney.”🔗 Conclusion:Estate planning isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy or the elderly—it’s for anyone who wants clarity, control, and peace of mind for the future. This episode lays out what smart planning looks like—and why it pays to get it right. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    20 min

About

Tune into Sterling Insights: Stand Out & Supercharge Your Assets, the premier podcast for financial advisors in growth mode who serve high net worth clients. If you work with clients who own appreciated capital assets and are looking to sell without incurring capital gains taxes, this show is for you. Each episode features insights and strategies from top financial advisors, experienced lawyers, and knowledgeable CPAs. Learn practical solutions to help your clients maximize their wealth while minimizing taxes, and discover how to grow your assets under management. Join us on Sterling Insights and empower your advisory practice with the knowledge to succeed.

More From Market Domination