The Tao of Chao Podcast

Philip Chao
  • 5.0 (3)
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  • UPDATED MONTHLY

The Tao of Chao Podcast focuses on contemporary issues, regulations and class action cases impacting pension and defined contribution retirement plan fiduciaries. Philip Chao and his guests will discuss relevant issues that a plan fiduciary should pay attention to and how such challenges are relevant in operating their retirement plans while serving in the sole interest of participants and beneficiaries. 

  1. 13H AGO

    From Save to Safe – A Conversation on Rethinking Risk

    What if the biggest risk in retirement planning isn’t market volatility—but believing you’re prepared when you’re not?   In Episode 38 of the Tao of Chao Podcast, Renee Scherzer interviews Philip Chao on the core philosophy behind his book From Save to Safe.   Drawing on decades of fiduciary experience, Philip challenges the traditional “401(k) mindset” and outlines a path to reach sustainable retirement income.   While modern systems have made it easier than ever to save, Philip argues they have most still under save and the system has not solved for what actually matters: opportunities and distribution methodologies in generating sustainable income in retirement.    Using the Save to Safe framework, this conversation explores how “mindless participation” under the current employer sponsor defined contribution set up —combined with system design—can create a false sense of security and leave participants underprepared.   Key insights include: • Why saving is only the first phase—not the outcome • How the current system can create the illusion of readiness • The hidden risks behind mindless participation • Why fiduciary responsibility must extend beyond plan design • How behavior and system structure together shape outcomes   📘 Get the book From Save to Safe: https://www.amazon.com/Save-Safe-Personalized-Fragility-Resilience-ebook/dp/B0FWXCMGQD   Listen to the full episode to understand why retirement planning doesn’t end with saving—and what it really takes to move from Save to Safe. 👓 Learn more about our HOST Philip Chao Website: https://philipchao.us Follow Philip on LinkedIn DISCLOSURE: Views expressed in the Tao of Chao podcasts are individual opinions and they do not represent the employers of each guest or the firm with which each guest is associated. Our podcasts are for educational and informational purposes only and should not be deemed or viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Please consult your personal financial advisor, investment expert, or investment fiduciary before taking any actions about your plan and investments.

    57 min

  2. MAR 26

    Comfort Is the Real Risk with Vittayarukskul

    Is the comfortable path actually the riskiest choice we can make?   In Episode 37 of the Tao of Chao Podcast, Philip Chao welcomes entrepreneur Lily Vittayarukskul for a conversation about risk, resilience, and the courage to step outside expected paths.   Lily’s journey began unusually early — starting college at 14 and interning at NASA as a teenager. After a family health crisis reshaped her perspective, she redirected her ambitions toward building technology solutions that address systemic challenges in healthcare.   Key insights include: • Why comfort can disguise long-term risk • How unconventional paths create unexpected opportunities • The role of personal experiences in shaping entrepreneurial missions • Why founders must embrace uncertainty rather than avoid it • How individuals can rethink risk in careers and life   This episode explores how purpose, risk, and growth often emerge when we move beyond what feels comfortable. 👓 Learn more about our HOST Philip Chao Website: https://philipchao.us Follow Philip on LinkedIn DISCLOSURE: Views expressed in the Tao of Chao podcasts are individual opinions and they do not represent the employers of each guest or the firm with which each guest is associated. Our podcasts are for educational and informational purposes only and should not be deemed or viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Please consult your personal financial advisor, investment expert, or investment fiduciary before taking any actions about your plan and investments.

    1h 1m

  3. FEB 5

    Understanding Inflation, Debt, and the Real Economy with Paula Campbell Roberts

    In Episode 36 of the Tao of Chao Podcast, Philip Chao sits down with Paula Campbell Roberts of KKR to unpack the economic realities shaping American households.   With a data-driven and human-centered perspective, the conversation dives into: • The uneven impact of inflation and why asset holders fared differently • What rising credit card and auto delinquencies signal about consumer stress • How wage growth, labor participation, and job switching have evolved • Shifts in household savings post-COVID • Why behavioral insights matter as much as economic indicators   Tune in for a grounded look at how consumers are navigating today’s economy—and what the data is really telling us. 👓 Learn more about our HOST Philip Chao Website: https://philipchao.us Follow Philip on LinkedIn DISCLOSURE: Views expressed in the Tao of Chao podcasts are individual opinions and they do not represent the employers of each guest or the firm with which each guest is associated. Our podcasts are for educational and informational purposes only and should not be deemed or viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Please consult your personal financial advisor, investment expert, or investment fiduciary before taking any actions about your plan and investments.

    51 min

  4. JAN 5

    Power, AI, and Morality with Brian Wong

    What does power look like in an age defined by artificial intelligence, geopolitical rivalry, and rapid technological acceleration? In Episode 35 of the Tao of Chao Podcast, Philip Chao welcomes Brian Wong for a compelling discussion on how AI is reshaping global order, the responsibilities of those who wield influence, and the moral frameworks needed to make sound decisions in complex systems. Key insights include:  • How AI alters power structures between nations, institutions, and individuals  • Why moral clarity matters more than ever in high-stakes environments  • The benefits and risks of adopting AI at scale  • How leaders can balance innovation with responsibility and restraint  • Why humility, reflection, and well-defined frameworks improve decision-making  • Where geopolitical competition is headed — and what it means for markets This episode offers a grounded, human-centered exploration of the forces shaping our future and the ethical considerations that must guide our path forward. 👓 Learn more about our HOST Philip Chao Website: https://philipchao.us Follow Philip on LinkedIn DISCLOSURE: Views expressed in the Tao of Chao podcasts are individual opinions and they do not represent the employers of each guest or the firm with which each guest is associated. Our podcasts are for educational and informational purposes only and should not be deemed or viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Please consult your personal financial advisor, investment expert, or investment fiduciary before taking any actions about your plan and investments.

    55 min

  5. 12/02/2025

    Longevity, Literacy, and the Future of Aging with Surya Kolluri

    What does it really mean to live longer — and how do we prepare for a future defined by extended lifespans? In this episode of the Tao of Chao Podcast, Philip Chao welcomes Surya Kolluri, Head of the TIAA Institute, for an in-depth discussion on longevity, retirement planning, cognitive health, and the evolving realities of aging societies.   Key insights include: • The rise of longevity literacy and why so few people understand their true lifespan • How to build longevity fitness across financial, physical, cognitive, and social dimensions • The deep connection between health and wealth — and why disparities are widening • Why planning should focus on income stability, not just accumulated savings • The growing threat of elder fraud and cognitive decline • How social connection dramatically reduces mortality risk • The emergence of age-friendly cities, intergenerational learning, and the longevity economy   Tune in for a grounded, human-centered conversation on how longer lives will reshape families, institutions, and society — and how each of us can prepare with clarity and intention. 👓 Learn more about our HOST Philip Chao Website: https://philipchao.us Follow Philip on LinkedIn DISCLOSURE: Views expressed in the Tao of Chao podcasts are individual opinions and they do not represent the employers of each guest or the firm with which each guest is associated. Our podcasts are for educational and informational purposes only and should not be deemed or viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Please consult your personal financial advisor, investment expert, or investment fiduciary before taking any actions about your plan and investments.

    54 min

  6. 10/27/2025

    Retirement Preparedness for Four Generations with Catherine Collinson

    What does it take to retire well in a world where people are living longer, working differently, and facing new financial realities?   In Episode 33 of the Tao of Chao Podcast, Philip Chao welcomes Catherine Collinson, CEO and President of the Nonprofit Transamerica Institute and Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, to explore how individuals, employers, and policymakers can collaborate to improve retirement readiness and financial wellness.   Key insights include: How longevity is transforming retirement expectationsWhy financial wellness is more than savings — it’s confidence and controlThe evolving role of employers in helping workers plan for the futureGenerational perspectives on saving, investing, and agingWhat we can all do to create a more secure and purposeful retirement  Tune in for data-driven insights and practical wisdom from one of the nation’s leading voices on the future of retirement. 👓 Learn more about our HOST Philip Chao Website: https://philipchao.us Follow Philip on LinkedIn DISCLOSURE: Views expressed in the Tao of Chao podcasts are individual opinions and they do not represent the employers of each guest or the firm with which each guest is associated. Our podcasts are for educational and informational purposes only and should not be deemed or viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Please consult your personal financial advisor, investment expert, or investment fiduciary before taking any actions about your plan and investments.

    1h 1m

  7. 10/09/2025

    Fiduciary Leadership and Behavioral Governance with Don Trone

    What does it take to lead responsibly in today’s complex world? In Episode 32 of the Tao of Chao Podcast, Philip Chao sits down with Don Trone, founder of the Behavioral Governance Institute, to discuss the principles of fiduciary leadership and the importance of behavioral governance. Key insights include: Why fiduciary duty is best understood as a standard of character, not just complianceHow behavioral governance helps leaders align decisions with valuesThe importance of ethics, accountability, and trust in financial servicesLessons from Don’s career advancing fiduciary responsibility and governance frameworksWhy stewardship and leadership are inseparable in finance, business, and beyondThis wide-ranging conversation is essential listening for investors, advisors, and anyone who wants to understand the deeper meaning of responsible leadership. 👓 Learn more about our HOST Philip Chao Website: https://philipchao.us Follow Philip on LinkedIn DISCLOSURE: Views expressed in the Tao of Chao podcasts are individual opinions and they do not represent the employers of each guest or the firm with which each guest is associated. Our podcasts are for educational and informational purposes only and should not be deemed or viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Please consult your personal financial advisor, investment expert, or investment fiduciary before taking any actions about your plan and investments.

    59 min

  8. 09/08/2025

    Tariffs, Immigration & AI Adoption w/ Dr. Onsel Gulbiten | Tao of Chao 31

    Are tariffs, immigration shifts, and AI adoption quietly reshaping the U.S. economy? In this episode of the Tao of Chao podcast, Philip Chao welcomes Dr. Onsel Gulbiten, global macro strategist, for a deep discussion on the forces driving growth and inflation. They explore: How tariffs and immigration policies are reshaping U.S. growth potentialWhy the economy may be settling into a new stasis of slower expansionThe accelerating role of AI in productivity and labor substitutionThe Federal Reserve’s evolving framework Whether we are headed toward stagflation, or something close to itTune in for an expert perspective on the “new normal” of slower growth, higher costs, and shifting global dynamics. 👓 Learn more about our HOST Philip Chao Website: https://philipchao.us Follow Philip on LinkedIn DISCLOSURE: Views expressed in the Tao of Chao podcasts are individual opinions and they do not represent the employers of each guest or the firm with which each guest is associated. Our podcasts are for educational and informational purposes only and should not be deemed or viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Please consult your personal financial advisor, investment expert, or investment fiduciary before taking any actions about your plan and investments.

    57 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

The Tao of Chao Podcast focuses on contemporary issues, regulations and class action cases impacting pension and defined contribution retirement plan fiduciaries. Philip Chao and his guests will discuss relevant issues that a plan fiduciary should pay attention to and how such challenges are relevant in operating their retirement plans while serving in the sole interest of participants and beneficiaries. 

Information

  • Creator
    Philip Chao
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    41
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Tao of Chao Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Tao of Chao Podcast