WealthStyle Podcast

Opus PC
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In this podcast we breakdown how to move your wealth, purpose and lifestyle forward with clarity and confidence. Always Forward is this show’s mantra. Enjoy the podcast with host and WealthStyle evangelists, Russ Carpentieri, Iván Watanabe and the rest of the Opus Private Client team.

  1. 16 hrs ago

    Rethinking Retirement Income Planning With Neal Brincefield (Ep. 123)

    Retirement planning can feel clear on paper until market swings, taxes, inflation, and longevity enter the picture. What if the real issue isn’t picking the right product, but knowing which problem you’re trying to solve first? In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl talk with Neal Brincefield, RICP, CLU, ChFC, CExP, Financial Advisor at Consolidated Planning, about Monte Carlo analysis, sequence of returns risk, and retirement income design. Neal explains why simulations should be used as stress tests, not crystal balls, and how a balanced strategy can help reduce pressure on a portfolio. Key takeaways: Why Monte Carlo analysis can create confidence, but shouldn’t be treated as a crystal ball How the order of investment returns can reshape retirement income planning outcomes Why structural income planning can be more useful than chasing higher portfolio returns How lifetime income and liquid assets can help reduce pressure during market declines Why defining the planning problem first can make product decisions feel less stressful And more! Connect with Iván Watanabe: Opus Private Client, LLC  iwatanabe@opus-pc.com LinkedIn: Iván Watanabe YouTube: OPUS Private Client, LLC Connect with Evan Wohl: Opus Private Client, LLC  ewohl@opus-pc.com  LinkedIn: Evan Wohl YouTube: OPUS Private Client, LLC Connect with Our Guest: LinkedIn: Neal Brincefield Website: Consolidated Planning About Our Guest: Neal Brincefield has dedicated his professional career to helping people realize their full financial potential by both working with those individuals directly and by recruiting, training, and coaching hundreds of other financial advisors to do the same. Neal started in the financial services industry with Consolidated Planning, Inc. in 2005, initially as an advisor and has maintained that role ever since. In addition to that 1st role, Neal has also worn the hats of top manager, case coach, agency head and national trainer. In those capacities, he has had the opportunity to work with hundreds of Guardian FRs on thousands of cases to refine their process, improve their results and better serve their clients.  In 2017, Neal was retained as a special field consultant by Guardian to lead their effort around the company’s industry-leading planning system, The Living Balance Sheet®. Neal’s mission in leading LBS into the future is to continue to provide and refine: 1) An incredible experience for clients 2) A powerful set of planning tools for advisors and 3) An unparalleled recruiting and productivity tool for agency leaders. Under Neal’s stewardship of LBS, Guardian continues to be the only company in the industry whose planning system is led by members of its field force, underscoring Guardian’s commitment to supporting its Financial Representatives and by extension the clients whom they’ve committed their careers to serve. Neal lives in Chapel Hill, NC with his wife Sarah and their 3 children.

    39 min

  2. May 25

    Franchise Ownership, Capital Planning, and Business Fit with Scott Thompson (Ep. 122)

    Buying a franchise can sound simple until the numbers, staffing, and daily decisions start to get real.  How do you know whether a franchise fits your goals, cash flow, and lifestyle? In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl speak with Scott Thompson, CEO of Your Future Franchise, about what prospective franchise owners should understand before investing. Scott shares how to evaluate the franchise disclosure document, why working capital matters, what strong franchisors provide, and how buyers can match their strengths, financial position, and goals with the right franchise opportunity. Scott shares: Why the right franchise depends on a buyer’s skills, budget, lifestyle, and return goals How strong franchisors support owners with systems, training, benchmarks, and KPIs What buyers should review in FDD items 5, 6, 7, and 19 before committing Why being undercapitalized can limit hiring, marketing, growth, and decision-making How franchise ownership can fit career changers, retirees, and purpose-driven investors And more! Resources: Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) 101 Connect with Iván Watanabe: Opus Private Client, LLC  iwatanabe@opus-pc.com LinkedIn: Iván Watanabe YouTube: OPUS Private Client, LLC Connect with Evan Wohl: Opus Private Client, LLC  ewohl@opus-pc.com  LinkedIn: Evan Wohl YouTube: OPUS Private Client, LLC Connect with Scott Thompson: LinkedIn: Scott Thompson Your Future Franchise Contact Franchise Consultant Scott Thompson  YouTube: @Scott-YourFutureFranchise Instagram: @smthompson1979 Facebook: Your Future Franchise About Our Guest: Scott Thompson is a nationally recognized franchise leader with over two decades of experience growing some of the most respected brands in health, wellness, beauty, and personal services. Over his career, he has served in many roles — including franchisee, multi-unit operator, board member, and private equity–backed executive — giving him a 360° perspective on what it takes to build and scale successful franchise brands. Now, as a Franchise Consultant with FranChoice, Scott offers a proven, no-cost consultative process to help individuals, couples, executives in transition, existing multi-unit operators, and PE & Family Office investors explore franchising. He guides them through discovering opportunities that align with their financial goals, lifestyle vision, and growth strategies — ultimately becoming confident, successful business owners. Over his career, Scott has: Driven explosive brand expansion — leading development strategies that opened thousands of locations nationwide. Partnered with private equity and multi-unit operators to optimize unit economics, accelerate openings, and maximize enterprise value. Built franchise systems from the ground up — from market analysis and site selection to lease negotiation, construction optimization, and resale strategies. Whether guiding an executive into their first franchise, helping an experienced operator diversify, or advising private equity groups on brand acquisition and portfolio growth, Scott brings the same core philosophy: “InServiceTo” his clients’ success. With deep industry relationships, a data-driven approach, and firsthand ownership experience, Scott has a rare 360° perspective on franchising. He understands what makes a franchise thrive and how to match the right people to the right opportunities. If you’re ready to explore franchise ownership, scale your portfolio, or evaluate brands for acquisition, Scott is a trusted partner who can get you from curiosity to confident ownership.

    33 min

  3. May 11

    The Student Loan Strategy Most Borrowers Miss with Geoffrey Urquhart (Ep. 121)

    Student loans are changing fast, and the rules are getting harder to follow. What if the biggest risk is not your balance, but the path you choose to manage it? In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl interview Geoffrey Urquhart, CEO of Sharp Notions and Founder of RefiDesk, about how borrowers can adapt to evolving student loan policies. He explains recent federal changes, new borrowing caps, and how repayment options are shifting toward income-based plans. Geoffrey also shares how to evaluate forgiveness versus refinancing, common mistakes borrowers make, and why planning earlier, even during school, can significantly impact long-term outcomes. Key takeaways: How new federal borrowing caps affect professional and graduate students and shift funding strategies earlier Why choosing between forgiveness and refinancing depends on income stability and long-term planning goals Common borrower mistakes, including wrong repayment plans and poor timing when refinancing loans How residency and early career stages offer critical opportunities to optimize loan strategies How RefiDesk simplifies decision-making by comparing repayment and refinancing options efficiently And more! Connect with Iván Watanabe: Opus Private Client, LLC  iwatanabe@opus-pc.com LinkedIn: Iván Watanabe YouTube: OPUS Private Client, LLC Connect with Evan Wohl: Opus Private Client, LLC  ewohl@opus-pc.com  LinkedIn: Evan Wohl YouTube: OPUS Private Client, LLC Connect with Our Guest: LinkedIn: Geoffrey Urquhart Website: Sharp Notions Website: RefiDesk About Our Guest: Geoff Urquhart is the CEO of G Sharp Inc. and the founder of RefiDesk, a platform that helps financial advisors and their clients make smarter decisions regarding student loans. He previously co-founded GradFin, a student loan platform that worked with thousands of borrowers and advisors before being acquired by KeyBank. Geoff has spent over a decade focused on simplifying complex student loan decisions—helping borrowers navigate forgiveness programs, repayment strategies, and refinancing options. His work today centers on making that expertise more accessible through technology so advisors and clients can get clear, actionable answers without needing to become experts themselves.

    20 min

  4. Apr 27

    The Doctor Who Cracked the Luxury Watch Market with Dr. Talha Kaner (Ep. 120)

    What does it really mean to be financially free, and can a high income alone get you there? In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl sit down with Dr. Talha Kaner, physician and watch dealer, whose company generated $5 million in sales in its second year. Dr. Kaner shares how his lifelong passion for timepieces evolved into a thriving business built alongside his medical career.  They cover the hidden mechanics of the luxury watch market, from authorized dealer games to gray market strategies, the value of building a business rooted in genuine passion, and how forming an LLC opened his eyes to financial opportunities that W2 earners often miss. Dr. Kaner discusses: How his entrepreneurial mindset started in his teens and led him through multiple ventures before landing on the watch business two and a half years ago The realities of the luxury watch market, including how supply and demand manipulation by brands like Rolex inflates secondary market prices well beyond retail MSRP How operating a watch dealership as an LLC created financial freedom and tax advantages that his physician salary alone could not provide The authorized dealer system and why buyers often need to purchase watches at a loss before earning the right to acquire a coveted piece like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Why finding a trusted dealer matters more than chasing Instagram-famous sellers, and how the industry saying “buy the dealer, not the watch” holds true for serious collectors And more!   Connect with Iván Watanabe: Opus Private Client, LLC  iwatanabe@opus-pc.com LinkedIn: Iván Watanabe YouTube: OPUS Private Client, LLC   Connect with Evan Wohl: Opus Private Client, LLC  ewohl@opus-pc.com  LinkedIn: Evan Wohl YouTube: OPUS Private Client, LLC   Connect with Our Guest: LinkedIn: M. Talha Kaner Website: Aslan Watches Instagram: @aslanwatches About Our Guest: Talha Kaner, MD is a full-time physician, entrepreneur, and father of two. Originally from Turkey, he moved to the United States in 2014 following medical school to pursue advanced medical training. He completed his residency in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation in Detroit, Michigan and New York City, followed by a fellowship in Spinal Cord Injury Medicine in Texas. Since 2021, Dr. Kaner has served as the Medical Director of Acute Rehabilitation Services in Norfolk, Nebraska, where he leads multidisciplinary teams focused on restoring function and improving quality of life for patients. Alongside his medical career, Dr. Kaner is the founder of Aslan Watches, a luxury watch trading company built from pure passion for horology. Through Aslan Watches, he helps like-minded collectors curate meaningful timepiece collections by leveraging deep market knowledge, trusted sourcing, and a commitment to transparency. His unique position as a physician and business owner fosters a high level of trust, offering clients peace of mind in every transaction. Operating across multiple platforms—including aslanwatches.com, Instagram (@aslanwatches), Chrono24, and eBay—Aslan Watches has grown into a respected name among collectors seeking authenticity, value, and long-term relationships.

    38 min

  5. Apr 13

    Your Top Financial Questions Answered: Tax Strategies, Insurance, Savings, and More (Ep. 119)

    Financial decisions often seem straightforward until the details start to matter. Are you making the right moves with taxes, savings, and long-term planning, or just following default choices without realizing the impact? In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl walk through real client questions in a rapid-fire format. They cover RSU taxation, retirement account choices, and how to think about future tax exposure. They also explore saving strategies, diversification, and how to evaluate major financial decisions. Throughout the conversation, they share practical ways to avoid common pitfalls and stay aligned with long-term goals. Key takeaways: Why RSU withholding often falls short and how that leads to unexpected tax bills at filing time How to think through Roth vs traditional contributions based on income growth and tax expectations The importance of saving at least 20 percent of gross income and tracking it consistently How concentration risk builds when compensation and investments rely on the same company Why financial decisions should align with cash flow, not just income or assumptions about affordability And more! Connect with Iván Watanabe: Opus Private Client, LLC  iwatanabe@opus-pc.com LinkedIn: Iván Watanabe YouTube: OPUS Private Client, LLC Connect with Evan Wohl: Opus Private Client, LLC  ewohl@opus-pc.com  LinkedIn: Evan Wohl YouTube: OPUS Private Client, LLC

    37 min

  6. Mar 2

    The Evolution of Video and the Enduring Power of Human Connection with Ryan Spicer (Ep. 118)

    The way we consume video has transformed rapidly, but what does that mean for media companies, advertisers, and families planning for the future? As technology accelerates and AI reshapes workflows, where does human connection still matter most? In this episode, Evan Wohl speaks with Ryan Spicer, Chief Revenue Officer of Atmosphere TV, about how the media industry has shifted from traditional television to on-demand, multi-platform viewing. They explore how streaming, ad models, and AI are reshaping digital media and advertising workflows. Ryan shares insights on connected TV outside the home, the blending of industry buckets, and why human skills like communication and critical thinking will matter even more in an AI-driven future. Ryan shares: How video evolved from scheduled television to on-demand, multi-screen experiences Why Atmosphere TV reimagines content for bars, gyms, and public spaces How AI improves ad targeting, workflows, and meeting preparation Why streaming ad experiences can feel more disruptive than legacy TV breaks The importance of human connection, critical thinking, and communication in an AI future And more! Connect with Evan Wohl: Opus Private Client, LLC  ewohl@opus-pc.com  LinkedIn: Evan Wohl YouTube: OPUS Private Client, LLC Connect with Our Guest: LinkedIn: Ryan Spicer Website: Atmosphere TV About Our Guest: Ryan Spicer is the Chief Revenue Officer for Atmosphere, the leading connected television platform for businesses, spearheading the national and local ad sales teams across the organization.  Ryan is a 18+ year media professional with leadership & strategy experience in linear television, premium digital publishers, content marketing & experiential activations across news, sports, and entertainment. Ryan previously spent more than 14 years at Turner & WarnerMedia, now part of Warner Bros Discovery, helping transform the leading media company from a legacy linear entity to a multi-platform content distributor with robust digital consumer engagement. In recent years, Ryan led client partnerships for the CNN Digital portfolio, across the Northeast, Southeast and Midwest territories, focusing on the brand’s digital, mobile and branded content offerings, and was among the sales leadership team for the successful launch of the HBO MAX with Ads steaming product.

    39 min

  7. Feb 16

    Planning Basics for Growing Families: Cash Flow and Coverage with Russell Carpentieri (Ep. 117)

    Starting a family often changes how people think about money, responsibility, and risk. The real challenge is not access to information, but turning it into clear action before small gaps become big problems. In this episode, Iván Watanabe and Russell J. Carpentieri, Founder and Managing Partner at OPUS Private Client, LLC,  walk through the foundational planning steps families should address as life becomes more complex. They focus on understanding cash flow, evaluating employee benefits, and identifying coverage gaps before making bigger financial decisions. The conversation highlights how simple check-the-box actions can reduce exposure, why wills are often overlooked, and how planning brings clarity when expenses and responsibilities grow. Key takeaways: How cash flow clarity creates better decisions as family expenses grow Why employee benefits are often the fastest starting point for coverage How to think through insurance needs using real math instead of guesses Why non-working spouses still represent significant economic value The risks families face when wills and basic documents are delayed And more! Connect with Iván Watanabe: Opus Private Client, LLC  iwatanabe@opus-pc.com LinkedIn: Iván Watanabe YouTube: OPUS Private Client, LLC Connect with Russell J. Carpentieri: Opus Private Client, LLC  rcarpentieri@opus-pc.com LinkedIn: Russell J. Carpentieri YouTube: OPUS Private Client, LLC   About Our Guest: Russell J. Carpentieri has over 34 years of experience in the Health/Welfare industry. He is the co-founder of Opus Private Client, LLC, and Opus Advisory Group, LLC. Russell manages the life insurance, retirement, and healthcare practices within each entity. His clients represent various industries, including finance, private equity, retail, real estate, healthcare, entertainment, and professional services. A believer in continuous professional development, Russell is an active member of the American Association of Life Underwriters, National Association of Health Underwriters, J.P Morgan, and Westchester County Blue Ribbon Task Force for NYS healthcare. As well, he spends time guest lecturing for numerous private equities, CFO and real estate symposiums, and insurance carrier conferences. Russell also cares deeply about his community. In fact, he is a founding member of the Make-a-Wish Foundation’s Westchester Chapter. In addition to serving on the Syracuse University Athletic Board and National Football Foundation Board, Russell enjoys being involved in the American Heart Association, 21st Century Board of White Plains Hospital, and the Pajama Program at Turtle Bay Music School in New York City. After graduating from Syracuse University’s management and finance program in 1983, Russell joined the New York Jets Football Club for two seasons as a special-teams player. Russell lives in Bedford, New York, with his wife, Suzanne. They have four children: Stefan, Nikolas, Maia, and Sophia.

    21 min

  8. Feb 2

    How to Start Difficult Conversations With Aging Parents With Maria Graceffa (Ep. 116)

    Having Difficult Conversations With Aging Parents: How To Start And What To Say In this episode of the WealthStyle Podcast, Iván Watanabe and Evan Wohl are joined by psychotherapist Maria Graceffa to explore how families can approach difficult conversations with aging parents around estate planning, healthcare decisions, and end-of-life wishes. The discussion focuses less on financial details and more on communication, timing, and emotional awareness. Maria shares why topics that feel taboo are often the most important to address, and how understanding your audience matters just as much as having the right information. The conversation covers practical guidance on aligning with siblings before approaching parents, choosing the right messenger, and framing discussions as invitations rather than directives. Listeners will also learn what language to avoid, how silence can create space for trust, and what to do when conversations become emotional or go off track. This episode offers thoughtful, real-world insight for anyone navigating multi-generational planning conversations and wanting to protect family relationships while creating clarity for the future. Key takeaways: Why avoiding “taboo” topics like death, inheritance, and long-term care often creates more stress than clarity How aligning with siblings and choosing the right messenger matters more than having the most expertise How to frame conversations as invitations, not directives, using open-ended questions that preserve a parent’s sense of control What language and timing to avoid, and how pauses and silence can reduce defensiveness and build trust Why these discussions work best as an ongoing dialogue rather than a one-time conversation And more! Listen to this episode of the WealthStyle Podcast and subscribe to stay connected to conversations that move your wealth and lifestyle forward, always forward. Connect with Iván Watanabe: Opus Private Client, LLC  iwatanabe@opus-pc.com LinkedIn: Iván Watanabe YouTube: OPUS Private Client, LLC Connect with Evan Wohl: Opus Private Client, LLC  ewohl@opus-pc.com  LinkedIn: Evan Wohl YouTube: OPUS Private Client, LLC   Connect with Maria Graceffa: Maria Graceffa Psychotherapy LinkedIn: Maria Graceffa counseling@mariagraceffapsychotherapy.com   About Our Guest: Maria Graceffa is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York and Connecticut. She earned her degree in Psychological Counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University, and is known for being an exceptional listener—a professional secret-keeper, in the best colloquial sense. Maria is a seasoned clinician, creating a supportive space where clients can heal their vulnerabilities. She communicates directly—no BS—while always leading with gentle compassion. Her work focuses on helping clients process old hurts, develop new and adaptive belief systems, and build healthier behavior patterns that support lasting change. She helps folks have the hard conversations to get unstuck within family, work, and overall life. Maria is further specialized, offering EMDR and couples counseling. Outside of the therapy room, Maria is a real sports-ball-Mom, with gear, goggles, nets, and balls for every season. She also shares her days with a senior pup who still performs daily auditions for Cirque du Soleil, keeping life both grounded and entertaining.

    42 min
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About

In this podcast we breakdown how to move your wealth, purpose and lifestyle forward with clarity and confidence. Always Forward is this show’s mantra. Enjoy the podcast with host and WealthStyle evangelists, Russ Carpentieri, Iván Watanabe and the rest of the Opus Private Client team.

Information

  • Creator
    Opus PC
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    120
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Wealth Style Podcast All Rights Reserved
  • Show Website
    WealthStyle Podcast

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