Purpose Driven Finances

Purpose Driven Finances
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Welcome to Purpose Driven Finances — the podcast that helps you use your money as a tool to fulfill the plan and purpose for your life. Hosted by Allan Malina, founder of Servus Capital Management, each episode brings you practical strategies, insightful conversations, and timely commentary on personal finance and investing. We guide you toward clarity and confidence, whether you’re planning for retirement, navigating life transitions, or simply looking to make wiser financial decisions. We cover a wide range of topics—from budgeting, debt management, and investment strategies to retirement planning and legacy planning—plus commentary on current economic trends to keep you informed. Because money isn’t the goal—living with purpose is. Learn more at www.servuscm.com Thanks for listening, and welcome to Purpose Driven Finances.

  1. FEB 8

    NEW FED CHAIR NOMINATION: THE PERSON, THE POLICY, AND WHAT MARKETS ACTUALLY HEAR

    NEW FED CHAIR NOMINATION: THE PERSON, THE POLICY, AND WHAT MARKETS ACTUALLY HEAR Aired January 31, 2026 Leadership at the Federal Reserve is entering a new season. With the nomination of Kevin Warsh to succeed Jerome Powell, markets are beginning to recalibrate—not based on politics, but on what this change signals about credibility, discipline, and the future posture of monetary policy. In this episode of Purpose Driven Finances, Allan Malina moves past the headlines to examine what markets actually hear when leadership changes at the Fed. Rather than predicting outcomes, the discussion focuses on differences in emphasis: a potential shift away from gradualism and expansive balance sheet policy toward institutional discipline, balance sheet restraint, and a narrower mandate centered on price stability. From there, Allan walks through the real-world implications for families and investors—covering how markets are responding across the U.S. dollar, equities, metals, bonds, housing, and even emerging proposals around using retirement funds for homeownership. The goal isn’t certainty. It’s clarity. KEY TAKEAWAYS A Shift in Emphasis, Not a Shock: Markets are interpreting a Warsh-led Fed as more focused on institutional credibility and balance sheet restraint—not abrupt tightening or policy whiplash.The “Orderly” Dollar: A potential 75-basis-point rate cut would likely produce a gradual softening of the U.S. dollar—not a collapse—preserving America’s role as a global yield anchor.Markets Still Discriminate: This is not a blanket “Fed save.” Equity strength continues to favor quality, cash-flow-positive businesses over speculative excess.Housing Reality Check: Mortgage rates are unlikely to fall point-for-point with Fed cuts. Insurance costs, taxes, and supply constraints remain the dominant affordability pressures—especially in Central Virginia.Stewardship vs. Access: Using 401(k) funds for home down payments may expand access, but carries real trade-offs: lost compounding, reduced flexibility, and long-term retirement pressure. FAQ: UNDERSTANDING THE TRANSITION Who is Kevin Warsh, and why does his nomination matter? Kevin Warsh served as a Federal Reserve Governor from 2006–2011, including during the 2008 financial crisis. His public commentary has emphasized institutional discipline, balance sheet restraint, and a narrower policy mandate—signals markets translate into expectations around liquidity and credibility. Will my mortgage rate drop immediately if the Fed cuts rates? Unlikely. Mortgage rates typically lag policy changes and may only decline modestly. In local markets like Lynchburg and Forest, affordability remains more constrained by insurance premiums, property taxes, and limited housing supply than by rates alone. Is using retirement funds for a home down payment a good idea? It can provide short-term access to homeownership, but it’s a high-stakes decision. From a fiduciary perspective, the loss of long-term compounding and increased future retirement pressure must be weighed carefully. ABOUT THE HOST Allan Malina is a fiduciary financial advisor and founder of Servus Capital Management in Forest, Virginia. He specializes in purpose-driven financial planning and quantitative portfolio discipline for families, retirees, and mission-aligned organizations. Through Purpose Driven Finances, Allan helps listeners navigate markets, policy shifts, and life decisions with clarity, discipline, and long-term stewardship.

    30 min

  2. FEB 8

    FROM MARKETS TO MEMORIES: PLANNING VACATIONS THE SMART WAY

    From Markets to Memories: Planning Vacations the Smart Way Purpose Driven Finances | Aired January 24, 2026 Process Over Prediction: Utilizing the Quantitative Portfolio Model (QPM) allows for disciplined navigation of market pullbacks, focusing on data rather than the alarmist headlines of the day.The Necessity of Financial Margin: Anticipating legislative shifts—such as Virginia’s rising auto insurance and energy costs—is a critical component of stewardship that protects your household’s peace of mind.Travel as Stewardship: Vacation planning is not merely a transaction; it is the management of emotional and financial capital. Strategic guidance ensures these "big moments" are protected from poor timing and rushed decisions.Guidance Over Options: In both markets and memories, the goal is not to have more choices, but to have the right framework to make the best decision for your current season of life. Learn how Allan Malina (SCM) applies quantitative discipline to market volatility and lifestyle planning. Explore the intersection of fiduciary-first investing and intentional travel planning with guest Laura Tyree. In this episode of Purpose Driven Finances, Allan Malina addresses the intersection of disciplined portfolio management and the emotional weight of family life. The discussion begins with a technical look at a Quad 1 market environment, examining how the S&P 500 and the Quantitative Portfolio Model (QPM) responded to recent pullbacks. Allan emphasizes that for the disciplined investor, volatility is not a signal for alarm, but a validation of a robust, process-driven approach. The conversation extends into local stewardship, highlighting upcoming Virginia legislative changes that may impact household expenses, including energy costs and auto insurance liability. Finally, Allan is joined by Laura Tyree, owner of Travel Lovers, to discuss why travel requires the same fiduciary-level discipline as a retirement plan. They explore how "Wave Season" hype often leads to rushed choices and why a guided approach to travel protects a family's most valuable asset: their time and memories. How does the QPM model handle market volatility? The Quantitative Portfolio Model (QPM) is designed to remove emotion from the equation. By focusing on mathematical indicators rather than market noise, the model provides a measured response to pullbacks, ensuring that long-term stewardship remains the priority during short-term fluctuations. What Virginia legislative changes are affecting household budgets in 2026? Current proposals include increases in auto insurance liability requirements and shifts in energy costs. These changes reinforce the need for financial margin and proactive planning to ensure that rising expenses do not derail a family’s long-term financial peace of mind. Why should I use a travel professional instead of booking online? Just as a fiduciary financial advisor provides a "wedge" against market noise, a travel professional offers advocacy and customization. They help families avoid the pitfalls of one-size-fits-all trips, ensuring that travel plans are aligned with their specific season of life and protected from unforeseen disruptions. Allan Malina is a fiduciary financial advisor and founder of Servus Capital Management in Forest, Virginia. He specializes in purpose-driven planning for retirees and mission-aligned organizations. As a leader in the Lynchburg community, Allan focuses on helping families navigate the seasons of wealth through quantitative discipline and a commitment to stewardship over speculation.

    30 min

  3. JAN 22

    Planning the Moments That Shape Your Life

    First aired on 1/17/2026 Inflation: Direction Over Headlines — Inflation continues to cool (≈2.7%), moving closer to long-term expectations. In a world of noise, disciplined monitoring remains superior to reactionary shifts.AI as a Tool, Not an Oracle — AI excels at accelerating understanding and organizing data, but it cannot replace human judgment or the responsibility of stewardship in high-stakes decisions.The “Decide First” Rule — Before price shopping for major life moments, the decision must pass a filter: Is the timing intentional or emotional? Clarity should always precede action.Structure Over Sticker Price — For significant commitments—like international travel or home projects—the structure (timing, terms, and flexibility) often dictates the true value more than the headline price. Join Allan Malina on Purpose Driven Finances as he explains why life’s “Big Moments” require a disciplined process over emotional impulse. Explore 2026 inflation realities, the proper role of AI in financial planning, and the "Price Band Method" for better stewardship. Modern finance is often dominated by noise—inflation headlines, AI hype cycles, and speculative narratives. In this briefing, Allan Malina, founder of Servus Capital Management, cuts through the static to refocus listeners on stewardship over speculation. The episode unfolds in two movements. First, Allan provides a measured perspective on current economic signals, including cooling inflation and labor-market shifts. Second, the conversation transitions into a tactical guide for navigating life’s “Big Moments.” Whether you are planning a complex trip or a major renovation, the process remains the same: decide first, shop second. Allan introduces the Price Band Method and shares practical AI prompts to help you analyze costs without losing sight of long-term purpose and risk. FAQ What is the “Price Band Method” for big purchases? Rather than chasing the lowest price (which often hides trade-offs) or the highest price (which often includes "ego premiums"), focus on the middle 60% of the market. Use two to three reputable sources to establish a realistic range. The internet provides data; it does not provide a recommendation. Is there an AI bubble in 2026? Certain segments, such as large-cap tech and AI-adjacent energy, have attracted significant capital. A disciplined investor looks beyond narratives to the underlying infrastructure and cash flows. We emphasize a process-driven approach over market predictions. How should I use AI when planning major expenses? Use AI to compare total costs and trade-offs. It is an excellent tool to accelerate your understanding of a market, but it should not replace the final judgment of a steward. Allan Malina is a fiduciary financial advisor and the Founder of Servus Capital Management in Forest, Virginia. With a career grounded in quantitative discipline, Allan specializes in purpose-driven financial planning for retirees and mission-aligned organizations throughout the Lynchburg region. He views money as a tool to serve life and values, helping clients navigate each financial season with calm, measured leadership.

    30 min

  4. JAN 12

    WHY BIG MOMENTS DESERVE BETTER PLANNING

    Why Rushed Life Decisions—Not Markets—Are Your Biggest Financial Risk Is your "New Year, New Me" energy leading to long-term financial stress? In this episode of Purpose Driven Finances, Allan Malina breaks down why the first two months of the year are the most dangerous for your bank account—and how to shift from urgent spending to intentional planning. 🔑 Key Takeaways: The Cost of Urgency The "Urgency Trap": Most financial regrets stem from rushed life decisions (housing, weddings, retirement) rather than market volatility.The Q1 Surge: January and February are peak months for high-impact choices that shape your financial trajectory for years.The Wrong Question: Asking "Can we afford it?" is a trap; true wealth planning focuses on flexibility, risk, and time.Market Context: While inflation is cooling and U.S. growth is stabilizing, markets only amplify existing stress—they rarely create it.The Solution: Purpose-driven planning replaces reactive spending with intentional clarity. 🎙️ Episode Overview: Planning for Life’s Big Moments In this episode of Purpose Driven Finances, host Allan Malina explores the intersection of emotional milestones and financial health. While the economic backdrop shows cooling inflation and improving U.S. growth, the real "market risk" for most families is happening at the kitchen table. The "January-February" Financial Shadow Early in the year, emotions run high. Decisions regarding home buying, luxury travel, wedding budgets, and retirement timing are often compressed into short timelines. These choices "cast long shadows," quietly reducing your future cash flow and removing options you haven't even considered yet. Moving Beyond "Can We Afford It?" Allan reframes the decision-making process by moving away from binary "yes/no" affordability. Instead, he challenges listeners to evaluate four pillars of a high-impact decision: Flexibility: How does this choice limit my ability to pivot later?Future Options: What doors am I closing by committing these funds?Hidden Risk: What risks am I accepting (knowingly or unknowingly)?Duration: How many years will this choice follow my balance sheet? The Goal: Life is meant for meaningful experiences. By leading with purpose rather than urgency, you ensure today’s joy doesn't become tomorrow’s debt. ❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Why do people make major financial mistakes at the start of the year? Emotional momentum and "New Year" milestones often compress decision timelines. When urgency replaces analysis, people commit to large expenses (like homes or weddings) without calculating the long-term trade-offs. What is the difference between affordability and flexibility? Affordability only looks at whether you have the cash today. Flexibility looks at whether that purchase prevents you from handling a job change, a market downturn, or a new opportunity tomorrow. How do market trends like inflation affect personal financial stress? Markets act as an amplifier. If your financial plan lacks "margin" or flexibility due to rushed personal decisions, a market dip feels like a crisis. If you have a purpose-driven plan, market shifts are merely data points, not disasters. What are the 4 questions to ask before a major purchase? What is the core purpose of this spend?How does this impact my monthly cash flow?Can I adjust this decision if my life circumstances change?What is the "downside" if my timing is wrong? Allan Malina is a fiduciary financial advisor and founder of Servus Capital Management in Forest, Virginia. He specializes in purpose-driven planning for retirees and mission-aligned organizations. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered investment, tax, or legal advice. It is not an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy any financial product. Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal.

    30 min

  5. JAN 8

    What Actually Mattered in 2025 — And What Didn’t

    Signal vs. Noise: Why 2025's recession headlines and inflation panic failed to derail the markets.Regime Shift Lessons: How understanding the "Quad" sequence (4,3,2,1) provided the real roadmap for 2025.The Year-End Clean-up: The critical difference between portfolio rebalancing and true "behavioral resets."Accountability: Why "what we got wrong" is the most important question an advisor can answer on-air. "Prepare for 2026 by reviewing what actually mattered in 2025. Allan Malina discusses macro regime shifts (Quads), market signals, and year-end planning in Lynchburg." Episode Overview In this year-end episode of Purpose Driven Finances, Allan Malina steps back from the headlines to separate the signals from the noise that shaped markets in 2025. While much of the attention focused on recession fears and AI hype, the forces that truly mattered were liquidity conditions and shifting macro regimes. Allan explains the four economic “Quads” and how moving through those regimes determined market leadership over the course of the year. The conversation then turns practical with a year-end reset for families in Lynchburg and Forest, VA, heading into 2026. Allan walks through key portfolio and planning items that shouldn’t be carried into a new year, including concentration risk, cash positioning, beneficiary designations, and estate basics. The episode closes with a “Hard Questions” segment—an honest look at where assumptions and models fell short in 2025, and how disciplined, rules-based guardrails can help families move forward with greater clarity and resilience in 2026. Frequently Asked Questions: 2025 Year-In-Review Q: What is the difference between "Signal" and "Noise" in investing? A: In 2025, "noise" consisted of sensationalized recession headlines and AI hype that led to performance chasing. The "signal" refers to the actual drivers of market returns: liquidity conditions, price trends, and macro regime changes (Quads). Focusing on signals helps investors avoid fear-based decisions. Q: How did the economic "Quads" affect market leadership in 2025? A: Market leadership in 2025 was determined by the transition through macro regimes. By identifying whether the economy was in Quad 4 (deflationary) or shifting toward Quad 1 (growth), investors could move away from over-concentration and align their portfolios with the sectors historically favored by those specific liquidity conditions. Q: What is included in a year-end financial planning "clean-up"? A: A comprehensive year-end reset includes portfolio rebalancing to manage concentration risk and a planning audit of beneficiary designations, cash flow needs, and estate basics. At Servus Capital Management, we also prioritize a "behavioral reset" to establish rules-based guardrails for the upcoming year. Q: Why should a fiduciary advisor ask "Hard Questions" at year-end? A: Asking hard questions about where models or assumptions failed creates transparency and accountability. For families in Lynchburg and Forest, this honesty is a hallmark of a fiduciary relationship, ensuring that the planning process remains resilient and adapts to real-world outcomes rather than sticking to outdated narratives. Allan Malina is a fiduciary financial advisor and founder of Servus Capital Management in Forest, Virginia. He specializes in purpose-driven planning for retirees and mission-aligned organizations.

    30 min

  6. JAN 8

    PREPARING FOR 2026 — WITHOUT PREDICTIONS

    Economic Setup: Why "Quad 1" signals a shift toward growth and innovation.Resilience over Predictions: How to stay flexible when market forecasts fail.The "Why" of Money: Aligning your 2026 strategy with family and freedom. "Prepare for 2026 without market predictions. Allan Malina discusses regime-based investing, Quad 1 setups, and purpose-driven financial planning in Forest, VA." Episode Overview In this episode of Purpose Driven Finances, Allan Malina explains why successful financial planning for 2026 isn’t about predicting markets, but about positioning thoughtfully through regime-based investing. As early Quad 1 conditions emerge—characterized by cooling inflation and stabilizing growth—Allan breaks down what this historical shift means for portfolio leadership, innovation, and broader market participation in the year ahead. The conversation then pivots from macro trends to the bigger picture: building a purpose-driven financial plan that serves your life, not just your portfolio. Serving families and professionals in Lynchburg and Forest, VA, Allan outlines how clarity around family, freedom, and flexibility creates a "margin of safety." Learn how to design a resilient plan that adapts as markets and life change—without the pitfalls of over-optimization or unnecessary risk. Q: What is regime-based investing? A: Regime-based investing is a strategy that focuses on identifying the current economic environment (growth and inflation trends) rather than trying to predict future market prices. By understanding if we are in a phase of rising growth and falling inflation (Quad 1), investors can position portfolios toward historically successful assets like innovation and growth stocks. Q: Why are market predictions often unreliable for 2026? A: Market predictions fail because they rely on forecasting specific events that are often impacted by "black swan" volatility. Instead, disciplined investors look at macro setups—like the current cooling inflation and stabilizing growth heading into January 2026—to stay flexible and resilient regardless of short-term fluctuations. Q: How does a "purpose-driven" plan handle economic changes? A: A purpose-driven plan builds a "margin of safety" by clarifying what your money is for—such as family experiences or financial freedom. By designing a plan that adapts as life changes, you create peace of mind that isn't dependent on "perfect" market timing. Allan Malina is a fiduciary financial advisor and founder of Servus Capital Management in Forest, Virginia. He specializes in purpose-driven planning for retirees and mission-aligned organizations.

    30 min

  7. 12/23/2025

    PURPOSE-DRIVEN GIVING — BLUE RIDGE PREGNANCY OF LYNCHBURG VA

    Air Date: December 20, 2025 Episode: Purpose-Driven Giving — Blue Ridge Pregnancy Center of Lynchburg, VA This episode connects market clarity with community impact. Allan begins with a portfolio and market update, then shifts the focus to purpose-driven giving, highlighting how local organizations strengthen families and provide stability during critical life moments. 📈 Segment One — Portfolio & Market Update Allan breaks down several key developments shaping the current environment: AI & Hyperscale Data Centers: Headlines around uncertainty near a major AI-linked data center project raise questions about infrastructure spending. Allan explains why hyperscale data centers matter to AI development and why isolated headlines don’t necessarily signal a slowdown in long-term investment.CPI Inflation Report: Inflation cooled to 2.74%, below expectations and down meaningfully from prior readings, reinforcing the trend toward easing inflation pressures.Looking Ahead to 2026: Despite narratives suggesting challenges ahead, current data shows lower inflation and stabilizing growth—conditions increasingly consistent with an early Quad 1 environment. The takeaway: markets are transitioning, and disciplined process matters more than reacting to headlines. 🧭 Segment Two — Purpose-Driven Giving: Investing in Our Community Nonprofit Spotlight: Blue Ridge Pregnancy Center — Lynchburg, VA Guests: Jane Oliver (Executive Director) & Adara Wright (Marketing Director) The second half of the episode focuses on purpose-driven giving and the real needs facing women and families in the Lynchburg community. Jane and Adara share their personal purpose, what led them to serve, and the mission of Blue Ridge Pregnancy Center. The discussion explores the challenges families face today, why local support matters, and how the Center provides care, guidance, and practical resources. Allan and the guests also discuss year-end giving opportunities and how listeners can support the Center through donations or involvement before year-end. This conversation highlights how generosity, when aligned with purpose, creates real and lasting impact. 💬 Key Takeaway Clear thinking in markets and purposeful generosity in community both stem from the same discipline: intentional stewardship.

    30 min

  8. 12/15/2025

    PURPOSE-DRIVEN GIVING — FIVE18 OF LYNCHBURG, VA

    📌 PURPOSE-DRIVEN GIVING — FIVE18 OF LYNCHBURG, VA Air Date: December 13, 2025 Episode: Purpose-Driven Giving — Five18 of Lynchburg, VA This episode brings together markets, purpose, and community impact. Allan begins with a December market and portfolio update as the economy transitions into a more growth-friendly environment, then shifts the conversation to purpose-driven giving, spotlighting Five18 of Lynchburg and its mission to support teens and young adults navigating critical life transitions. 📈 Segment One — Portfolio & Market Update (December 2025) In this segment, Allan covers the key forces shaping markets as we head into 2026: The Federal Reserve cut rates by 0.25%, marking the first cut of the cycle and confirming a transition toward an early Quad 1 environment. The move signals confidence in cooling inflation and stabilizing growth—historically supportive for borrowing, investment, and equity multiples—while reducing the appeal of overly defensive, cash-heavy positioning.The Fed restarted quantitative easing, injecting $40 billion per month through at least April. This liquidity supports financial conditions heading into the new year and creates a classic early-cycle setup where rate cuts and QE tend to favor risk assets, growth sectors, and innovation. Allan cautions that QE can distort short-term price signals, reinforcing the need for discipline using the PVV and Quad frameworks, especially as tax refunds add further liquidity.Oracle announced a $50 billion capital expenditure plan for next year, up from roughly $35 billion. This reflects accelerating demand for AI infrastructure, data centers, and cloud expansion, signaling a multi-year investment cycle across corporate America. The implications are mixed for industrials, semiconductors, data-center REITs, and the broader AI supply chain. The takeaway from Segment One: markets are entering a more growth-friendly regime, but disciplined process matters as liquidity and policy shifts can amplify short-term noise. 🧭 Segment Two — Purpose-Driven Giving: Investing in Our Community & Harvesting a Tax Break Nonprofit Spotlight: Five18 of Lynchburg Guest: Jeff Nitz, CEO December’s theme focuses on purpose-driven giving—using money as a tool for impact, alignment, and lasting value. Allan highlights nonprofits that strengthen families, support young people, and improve the greater Lynchburg community. This week’s featured organization is Five18, which serves families facing instability, crisis, and major life transitions. Allan welcomes Jeff Nitz, CEO of Five18, to discuss the organization’s mission, impact, and the needs being met every day. Five18 fills a critical gap during the transitional years by providing structure, mentorship, life skills, and emotional support—helping families find direction, stability, and hope during seasons when guidance matters most. Jeff shares the personal experiences that shaped his calling to serve and explains what drives his commitment to the families and young people of Lynchburg. The conversation also explores how Five18 meets community needs through financial support, mentorship, skills training, counseling, and consistent adult presence. Allan and Jeff discuss year-end giving opportunities, how donations can be put to work immediately—funding meals, tutors, supplies, and staffing—and how generosity can align purpose with practical tax planning. Listeners are encouraged to support the mission by visiting five18.org. 💬 Key Takeaway When markets turn toward growth and communities face real needs, purpose-driven decisions—both in investing and giving—create clarity, impact, and lasting value. 📞 Connect With Us Call Allan: 434-316-0246 Learn more: www.servuscm.com

    30 min
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About

Welcome to Purpose Driven Finances — the podcast that helps you use your money as a tool to fulfill the plan and purpose for your life. Hosted by Allan Malina, founder of Servus Capital Management, each episode brings you practical strategies, insightful conversations, and timely commentary on personal finance and investing. We guide you toward clarity and confidence, whether you’re planning for retirement, navigating life transitions, or simply looking to make wiser financial decisions. We cover a wide range of topics—from budgeting, debt management, and investment strategies to retirement planning and legacy planning—plus commentary on current economic trends to keep you informed. Because money isn’t the goal—living with purpose is. Learn more at www.servuscm.com Thanks for listening, and welcome to Purpose Driven Finances.

Information

  • Creator
    Purpose Driven Finances
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Servus Capital Management
  • Show Website
    Purpose Driven Finances