The Planning Perspectives Podcast

Jamie Hopkins and Kate Duffy

Welcome to The Planning Perspectives Podcast with Jamie Hopkins and Kate Duffy from Bryn Mawr Trust, a WSFS company. In this podcast, we bring you real, relatable conversations on being strategic with your money, thriving as a business leader, and powering through life’s transitions—all through the lens of intentional planning. With over a century of experience and insights from industry-leading guests, we go beyond day-to-day finances to explore the decisions that shape your life’s direction. Because when it comes to planning for the future, you don’t know what you don’t know—and that’s where we come in.

  1. 3d ago

    2026 Mid-Year Economic Outlook: Inflation, AI & Consumer Resilience with Andrew Davis, CFA (Ep. 22)

    Is the economy slowing down, or is it simply returning to a more normal pace? With headlines pulling attention in different directions, it can be difficult to separate short-term noise from the longer-term trends that may shape financial decisions and investment outcomes. In this episode of the Planning Perspectives Podcast, Jamie Hopkins and Kate Duffy welcome back Andrew Davis, CFA, Head of Investment Strategy at Bryn Mawr Trust, to discuss the 2026 Mid-Year Economic Outlook. Together, they examine why consumers and businesses have remained resilient despite persistent uncertainty, how inflation and interest rates continue to influence markets, what AI-driven productivity gains could mean for future economic growth, and why investors may be better served by focusing on long-term fundamentals rather than reacting to daily market headlines. Key takeaways: Why consumer and business resilience has continued despite inflation, higher interest rates, and economic uncertainty How the Federal Reserve is navigating inflation, interest rates, and labor market dynamics What artificial intelligence and productivity gains could mean for growth, earnings, and investment opportunities over the coming decade Why today’s interest-rate environment may reflect economic normalization—and why long-term investors should stay focused on fundamentals rather than short-term market noise Connect with Bryn Mawr Trust:  833-973-7633 LinkedIn: Bryn Mawr Trust Website: Bryn Mawr Trust Connect with Kate Duffy:  LinkedIn: Kate Duffy Connect with Jamie Hopkins:  LinkedIn: Jamie Hopkins Connect with Andrew Davis: LinkedIn: Andrew Davis  About our Guest:  Andrew Davis, CFA, is the Head of Investment Strategy at Bryn Mawr Trust Advisors, where he helps shape the firm’s investment outlook, asset allocation decisions, portfolio positioning, and advisor guidance. He specializes in translating complex developments across the economy, financial markets, and public policy into clear, actionable insights for investors. Throughout his career, Andrew has worked at the intersection of economics, investment strategy, and portfolio management. Before joining Bryn Mawr Trust, he held investment strategy and economist roles at SEI, Moody’s Analytics, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Today, he leads the firm’s market and economic research efforts, supporting advisors, clients, and investment decision-making across the organization. He regularly shares his perspectives through market commentary, client presentations, media appearances, and his weekly video series, Two the Point, which helps investors navigate an increasingly complex investment landscape. Andrew is also a frequent media contributor, appearing on outlets including CNBC and SiriusXM to discuss economic trends, market risks, portfolio strategy, and the outlook for investors. His investment philosophy is grounded in disciplined asset allocation, thoughtful risk management, and a long-term perspective, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a consistent investment process through changing market environments. He holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation, an MBA from The Wharton School, and a Master’s degree in Applied Economics from Johns Hopkins University.

  2. Jul 8

    Healthcare Leadership Awards: Conversations with 6 Philadelphia Leaders (Ep. 21)

    This special live episode of the Planning Perspectives Podcast, recorded at the Philadelphia Business Journal’s Healthcare Awards, features a series of short, high-energy conversations with six leading healthcare executives and innovators. Each guest offers a concise perspective on the most pressing challenges and opportunities shaping healthcare today, creating a dynamic snapshot of an industry undergoing significant transformation. Across the discussions, common themes emerge around expanding access and advancing health equity, particularly for underserved populations. Leaders highlight the growing importance of integrating behavioral and physical healthcare, while health system executives emphasize balancing patient-centered care with operational and workforce demands. At the same time, innovators point to the critical role of technology, data sharing, and process improvement in driving efficiency and better outcomes. Overall, the episode underscores a shared commitment to collaboration and innovation across the healthcare ecosystem. From community-based care to cutting-edge research and AI-driven solutions, each conversation reinforces the need for more connected, coordinated, and forward-thinking approaches to building a more effective and equitable system of care.

  3. Jul 8

    Estate Planning Beyond The Documents with Garrett Spangler, JD, LLM (Ep. 21)

    Estate planning is often seen as something for the wealthy or something to tackle later—but the reality is far more immediate. The decisions you make today can shape how your loved ones navigate difficult moments in the future. In this episode of The Planning Perspectives Podcast, Jamie Hopkins and Kate Duffy are joined by Garrett Spangler, JD, LLM, Senior Wealth Strategist at Bryn Mawr Trust Advisors, to discuss why estate planning goes well beyond transferring assets. They explore the importance of family conversations, the roles of powers of attorney and living wills, and how tools like beneficiary designations, legacy letters, and digital asset planning help ensure your wishes are clearly understood. The conversation also highlights common missteps, the need to revisit plans after major life events, and how thoughtful preparation can ease stress for loved ones when guidance matters most. Key takeaways: Estate planning should address life events, incapacity, and family decision-making—not just wealth transfer Beneficiary designations can override wills, making regular reviews essential Legacy letters and family communication help clarify intentions beyond legal documents Digital assets and life changes require ongoing updates to keep plans current Resources: Bryn Mawr Trust Digital Assets Research Project Connect with Bryn Mawr Trust:  833-973-7633 LinkedIn: Bryn Mawr Trust Website: Bryn Mawr Trust Connect with Kate Duffy:  LinkedIn: Kate Duffy Connect with Jamie Hopkins:  LinkedIn: Jamie Hopkins Connect with Garrett Spangler:  LinkedIn: Garrett Spangler About our Guest:  Garrett C. Spangler is a Senior Wealth Strategist with Bryn Mawr Trust Advisors. In his role, Garrett works with clients on a variety of planning areas such as trust and estate planning, business succession planning, retirement planning, income taxes, and liability exposure. Prior to his role in wealth planning, Garrett practiced tax, estate, and corporate law with an emphasis on international planning at law firms in Philadelphia and the surrounding area. Garrett earned his law degree (J.D.) and Master’s in Taxation (LL.M.) from Temple University’s Beasley School of Law and his bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from Penn State University’s Smeal College of Business. He has also received the CEPA (Certified Exit Planning Advisor) designation from the Exit Planning Institute. In addition to his work with Bryn Mawr Trust Advisors, Garrett spent many years as an adjunct faculty member of Delaware Valley University where he taught Corporate Taxation, Federal Income Taxation, Financial Planning, and Estate Planning. He has also lectured at Temple Law on international tax issues and presented to his peers on tax, business, and estate planning related topics in continuing education courses. Garrett is a member of the bars of Pennsylvania and New Jersey and is admitted to practice before the United States Tax Court.

  4. Jun 24

    Rethinking Retirement Plans: Easier, Smarter, More Valuable with Jacqueline Reeves (Ep. 20)

    Retirement plans have long been seen as expensive, complex, and difficult to manage—especially for small businesses. But that perception is changing. In this episode of the Planning Perspectives Podcast, Jackie Reeves joins Jamie Hopkins and Kate Duffy to explore what’s different today, the opportunities many employers may be overlooking, and why taking a fresh look at your current plan could deliver meaningful value for both your business and your employees. Key Takeaways: Why no business is “too small” to offer a retirement plan—and how accessibility has improved How modern plans have become more affordable, streamlined, and easier to manage Why retirement benefits are now a powerful differentiator for attracting and retaining talent How features like automatic enrollment—and a simple plan review—can significantly improve outcomes And more. This conversation makes a compelling case for revisiting your approach—because today’s retirement plans aren’t just easier, they’re a strategic advantage.  Connect with Bryn Mawr Trust:  833-973-7633 LinkedIn: Bryn Mawr Trust Website: Bryn Mawr Trust Connect with Kate Duffy:  LinkedIn: Kate Duffy Connect with Jamie Hopkins:  LinkedIn: Jamie Hopkins Connect with Jacqueline Reeves: LinkedIn: Jacqueline Reeves  About our Guest:  Jacqueline (Jackie) Reeves leads Retirement Plan Services at Bryn Mawr Trust, a WSFS company. She works with business owners to design, evaluate, and optimize retirement plans that align with company goals, employee needs, and evolving regulatory requirements. Jackie specializes in helping organizations navigate plan design, fiduciary oversight, retirement plan benchmarking, participant engagement, and long-term retirement readiness strategies. Throughout this conversation, she shares practical insights on how business owners can simplify retirement plan decisions while creating meaningful benefits for their employees.

  5. Jun 10

    Roths Decoded: Timing, Taxes, and the Power of Flexibility (Ep. 19)

    Roth accounts can shape how and when taxes are paid, but the right choice depends on timing, income, and long-term goals. How can savers use Roth planning to create more flexibility before and during retirement? In this episode, Jamie Hopkins and Kate Duffy explain how Roth IRAs, Roth 401(k)s, conversions, and backdoor Roth contributions fit into a broader financial plan. They compare Roth and traditional accounts, explain income limits, cover required distributions, and share why high earners may still benefit from Roth strategies. The conversation also clears up common myths and highlights why tax diversification matters. Key takeaways: How Roth IRAs differ from traditional IRAs when it comes to taxes, timing, and withdrawals Why high-income years may not be ideal for Roth contributions, but Roth planning can still fit How Roth conversions can help retirees use lower-income years to shift money strategically Why Roth 401(k)s may offer higher contribution room without Roth IRA income restrictions How backdoor Roth contributions work and why existing IRA balances can create tax issues Connect with Bryn Mawr Trust:  833-973-7633 LinkedIn: Bryn Mawr Trust Website: Bryn Mawr Trust Connect with Kate Duffy:  LinkedIn: Kate Duffy Connect with Jamie Hopkins:  LinkedIn: Jamie Hopkins

  6. May 27

    Fearless Growth in Hospitality: Building Without Losing Your Culture with Sydney Grims (Ep. 18)

    Growth can look exciting from the outside—but behind every new location, partnership, or expansion are tough calls, people challenges, and the constant pressure to get it right. So how do you scale a business without losing the culture that made it successful in the first place? And what does it really take to build a company people want to grow with? In this episode, Jamie Hopkins and Kate Duffy sit down with Sydney Grims, Director of Business Development at Fearless Restaurants, to unpack what it takes to expand a hospitality brand while staying true to its roots. Sydney shares how her family’s restaurant background shaped her leadership approach, why building the right operational systems became essential, and how Fearless navigates hiring, real estate decisions, branding, and thoughtful growth. They also dive into women in leadership, community-building through the Fearless Femmes initiative, and why sometimes the smartest growth strategy is slowing down. Key takeaways: Why protecting culture—not just chasing growth—is the foundation of long-term success How stronger systems and faster response times unlocked new operational opportunities What to look for in new markets, from real estate strategy to local demand signals How intentional, measured growth helps avoid burnout and build a company people want to be part of Resources: Website: Alpha Bravo Canine Connect with Bryn Mawr Trust:  833-973-7633 LinkedIn: Bryn Mawr Trust Website: Bryn Mawr Trust Connect with Kate Duffy:  LinkedIn: Kate Duffy Connect with Jamie Hopkins:  LinkedIn: Jamie Hopkins Connect with Sydney Grims:  LinkedIn: Sydney Grims Website: Fearless Restaurants Instagram: @fearlessrestaurants Instagram: @sydneygrims About our Guest:  Sydney Grims serves as Director of Development for Fearless Restaurants, where she oversees the strategic growth and evolution of the company’s 14-property hospitality portfolio. Working directly with the Founder and CEO of the family-owned business, she helps advance both vision and execution across the organization. Her role spans all divisions of Fearless, including capital projects, talent acquisition, sales and marketing, operations, and culinary. She leads cross-functional teams to bring new concepts to life, strengthen existing properties, and align each initiative with the company’s standards for hospitality, culture, and long-term value. From guiding major capital investments and development initiatives to building teams and refining operational performance, Sydney focuses on sustainable growth rooted in people, place, and purpose. She works closely with leaders across the organization to translate strategy into action, balancing creativity with discipline and innovation with operational excellence. At the core of her work is a commitment to preserving the integrity of a family business while thoughtfully expanding its impact. She takes pride in building environments where teams thrive, guests feel genuinely welcomed, and Fearless continues to set the standard for distinctive dining and hospitality experiences. Sydney attended Cornell’s School of Hotel Administration to prepare for her role in the family business and has worked with several premier hospitality organizations, including Hillstone Restaurant Group.

  7. May 14

    The Power of Local Banking: Trust & Community Impact with Shari Kruzinski (Ep. 17)

    Banking is personal—money touches nearly every major life moment, from big milestones to unexpected challenges. When clients have a trusted advisor, financial planning, problem-solving, and growth feel more human and more connected. In this episode of the Planning Perspectives Podcast, Jamie Hopkins and Kate Duffy speak with Shari Kruzinski, Executive Vice President and Chief Consumer Banking Officer at WSFS Bank, about her 37-year journey from floating teller to senior leadership. Shari shares how local banking builds trust through strong branch relationships, associate development, youth financial education, small business support, and a deep commitment to community through volunteerism, grants, and homebuyer programs. Key points: Shari’s service-driven career journey and lasting connection to local banking Why branch teams matter during life events, fraud concerns, and major financial decisions How youth banking programs help build strong financial habits early Community impact through small business support, volunteerism, grants, and housing initiatives Connect with Bryn Mawr Trust:  833-973-7633 LinkedIn: Bryn Mawr Trust Website: Bryn Mawr Trust Connect with Kate Duffy:  LinkedIn: Kate Duffy Connect with Jamie Hopkins:  LinkedIn: Jamie Hopkins Connect with Shari Kruzinski:  LinkedIn: Shari Kruzinski Website: WSFS Bank About our Guest:  Shari Kruzinski is Executive Vice President and Chief Consumer Banking Officer at WSFS Bank. Her career spans nearly 40 years in the banking industry, serving for over 35 years with WSFS. In her current position, Ms. Kruzinski leads the Consumer Banking division. Prior to her current role, Ms. Kruzinski was Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Officer, leading Customer Experience and enterprise-wide Customer initiatives. As a seasoned people manager and expert in talent development, she oversaw the Bank’s retail offices, contact center, sales strategy, and operations. Previously, she was Senior Vice President and Regional Manager of WSFS Bank’s Southeastern Pennsylvania market. She led the Bank’s operations and consumer and small business banking in Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties. As a senior executive, she led the division through numerous acquisitions. Ms. Kruzinski played a key role in developing Customer acquisition and retention strategies; Associate hiring and retention, corporate strategy formulation and execution; new market identification and expansion. As a working mother of four, she has a deep commitment to fellow mothers and their children and devotes her talents to the March of Dimes, where she serves as Chair of the Eastern Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Southern NJ Market Board. In 2024, Shari also joined the Board of Partners in Outreach, a Chester County, Pennsylvania, nonprofit that focuses on closing literacy gaps.  Ms. Kruzinski was named 2018 Female Business Leader of the Year by the Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry. In 2020, she was recognized by the Philadelphia Business Journal and honored with the Women of Distinction award. She was named one of the Top 50 Women Leaders in Banking by Women We Admire in 2024.  Ms. Kruzinski attended Wilmington University and is a graduate of ABA Stonier Graduate School of Banking. She calls Kennett Square, PA home where she and her husband are raising their family.

  8. Apr 29

    Thinking Differently with Philadelphia Union’s Jay Sugarman (Ep. 16)

    What does it take to think differently—and still win? In this episode, Jamie Hopkins and Kate Duffy sit down with Jay Sugarman, Principal Owner of the Philadelphia Union and Chairman and CEO of Safehold, to explore how unconventional thinking has defined his career. Jay reflects on how frequent change early in life built resilience, sharpened pattern recognition, and shaped a disciplined, principles‑driven approach to decision‑making. From real estate to professional sports, Jay shares how challenging consensus thinking can reveal opportunity. He explains how applying corporate finance logic to outdated real estate structures unlocked value, and how a development‑first, long‑term mindset transformed a professional soccer organization—proving that thoughtful innovation often outperforms convention. Key takeaways include: How early life transitions fostered adaptability and strategic pattern recognition Why contrarian thinking can surface opportunities during periods of market or industry change How rethinking legacy structures in real estate led to meaningful innovation Why investing in talent development and systems can drive sustainable success Connect with Bryn Mawr Trust:  833-973-7633 LinkedIn: Bryn Mawr Trust Website: Bryn Mawr Trust Connect with Kate Duffy:  LinkedIn: Kate Duffy Connect with Jamie Hopkins:  LinkedIn: Jamie Hopkins Connect with Jay Sugarman:  Website: Philadelphia Union Website: Safehold About our Guest:  Jay Sugarman is Chairman and Majority Owner of the Philadelphia Union and Union Sports & Entertainment. Mr. Sugarman is also Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of iStar (NYSE:STAR), a leading commercial real estate company in the United States. iStar’s current $6 billion portfolio of real estate interests is located in most major markets throughout the United States and includes interests in office, industrial, multifamily, hotel, land and entertainment properties. Mr. Sugarman is also Founder, Chairman and CEO of Safehold (NYSE: SAFE), one of the fastest-growing REITs since its IPO in 2017. Safehold is revolutionizing commercial real estate ownership by reinventing and modernizing the ground lease industry, with an enterprise value approaching $5 billion. Mr. Sugarman graduated summa cum laude from Princeton University, where he was nominated for valedictorian and received the Paul Volcker Award in Economics. He received his M.B.A. with high distinction from Harvard Business School, graduating as a Baker Scholar and recipient of the school’s academic prizes for both finance and marketing.

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About

Welcome to The Planning Perspectives Podcast with Jamie Hopkins and Kate Duffy from Bryn Mawr Trust, a WSFS company. In this podcast, we bring you real, relatable conversations on being strategic with your money, thriving as a business leader, and powering through life’s transitions—all through the lens of intentional planning. With over a century of experience and insights from industry-leading guests, we go beyond day-to-day finances to explore the decisions that shape your life’s direction. Because when it comes to planning for the future, you don’t know what you don’t know—and that’s where we come in.

Information

  • Creator
    Jamie Hopkins and Kate Duffy
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    Copyright ©️ The Planning Perspectives Podcast 2025
  • Show Website
    The Planning Perspectives Podcast

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