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Don't Retire...Graduate!

by Eric Brotman

Don’t Retire… Graduate! is the podcast that invites you to rethink what retirement really means. Hosted by Certified Financial Planner Practitioner Eric Brotman, we’re here to guide you in transforming the traditional concept of retirement into an exciting and enriching graduation—a time to embark on new adventures, embrace lifelong passions, and define what success and happiness look like in this new chapter of life.Retirement isn’t just about stepping away from a career; it’s about stepping into a life filled with purpose, joy, and fulfillment. Whether you're on the brink of retirement or just starting to think about it, this podcast will help you discover what it takes to not just survive, but thrive in your post-career years. We’ll explore how to live a fun, productive, and meaningful life by setting new goals, pursuing passions that light you up, and building a legacy that truly reflects who you are.Each episode features in-depth conversations with a diverse range of guests—from

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Episodes

  1. Reinventing Retirement: Jack Calhoun Shares Wisdom on Purpose, Identity, and Encore Careers

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re exploring one of the most critical and overlooked aspects of retirement: transitioning your identity, purpose, and fulfillment as you move into the next chapter of life. Joining me for this conversation is Jack Calhoun, the founder...

  2. Breaking Financial Overwhelm: Andrea Ewalefo’s VIBES Framework for Neurodivergent Women

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In this inspiring episode, we’re exploring how to break free from financial overwhelm—especially for those whose brains are wired a little differently. Joining me today is Andrea Ewalefo, founder and CEO of Modern Lady Vibes. Andrea is dedicated to…

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  3. Discover Your Money Personality: Approachable, Practical, and Human Financial Wellness

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today's episode, we're diving into a topic that resonates with so many retirees and those preparing for retirement: how to graduate from guilt and finally feel good about spending in retirement. Joining me is Linda Grizely, a personal finance expert and...

  4. Storytelling, Sacrifice, and Success: Secrets to Thriving in Life and Business

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! Today’s episode invites you on a journey from small-town Alabama to the boardrooms and stages of South Florida as we dive deep into the power of mindset, legacy, and building wealth with intention. I’m thrilled to introduce my guest, Neal Oates...

  5. Women Leading the Way in Finance: Erin Voisin on Team Building and Empowerment

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the path to purposeful financial planning, how the industry is evolving, and the pivotal role empathy and advocacy play in our profession. I’m thrilled to be joined by Erin Voisin, a powerhouse in the wealth...

  6. The Power of Women’s Money: Janine Firpo on Creating Change Through Values-Based Investing

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the world of values-aligned investing and exploring how women can create a more just and equitable society through the power of their money. Joining me is Janine Firpo, a social innovator, author, and one of Forbes’ 50...

  7. Retire Today: Five Steps to Avoid Costly Retirement Mistakes with Jeremy Keil

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! I’m excited to kick off our seventh season with a powerful conversation about redefining retirement—and how to do it with confidence, purpose, and a solid financial plan. For our season premiere, I had the pleasure of hosting Jeremy Keil, author of the…

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  8. The Power of Early Money Talks: How Joey Mills Built Financial Confidence

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! Today’s episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the journey of a financial advisor, featuring a special guest from our own team: Joey Mills, who recently became a Certified Financial Planner™ and is on the path to becoming an associate advisor at BFG...

  9. Tax Planning Without Tears: Artist and Expert Hannah Cole’s Guide

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! For our season six finale, I was thrilled to talk taxes in a way you’ve probably never heard before. Today’s episode features a conversation with Hannah Cole, tax expert, author, founder of Sunlight Tax, and a practicing artist who is on a mission to...

  10. Real Estate as a Tool for Growth: Meredith Mears on Investing With Purpose and Passion

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the world of building wealth through commercial real estate, entrepreneurial leaps, and personal growth. Joining me is Meredith Mears, an accomplished Senior Advisor at SVN Miller Commercial Real Estate and…

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  11. The Final Diary: Kobe Bolanos Wraps Up with Insights on Career, Estate Planning, and Growth

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s special episode, we’re closing the chapter on our beloved “Diary of a Financial Advisor” segment as part of this podcast. It’s a bittersweet milestone, but I’m excited to have a fantastic guest to help us celebrate and reflect. Joining me is Kobe...

  12. Turning Life Insurance Into Wealth: Jamie Mendelsohn on Monetizing Policies for Retirement and Giving

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re taking the mystery out of one of the most overlooked financial assets: life insurance. I’m joined by Jamie Mendelsohn, Executive Vice President of the Ashar Group, a nationally licensed life settlement broker dedicated to helping...

  13. From Teaching to Finance: Hannah Dennis on Building a Collaborative and Data-Driven Career

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode of our “Diary of a Financial Advisor” segment, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Hannah Dennis, who transitioned from teaching young children to becoming a client relations associate and our resident marketing guru at BFG Financial...

  14. From Homeless Teen to Millionaire: Matt Paradise’s Journey of Hope, Resilience, and Financial Wellness

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! On today’s episode, I’m joined by a truly inspiring guest whose personal journey offers hope, resilience, and valuable lessons about financial wellness: Matt Paradise. Matt is a financial wellness speaker for young professionals, an award-winning author…

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  15. Elevating Financial Wellness: Inside Corporate Programs with Andrew Harrell

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In this special “Diary of a Financial Advisor” segment, I’m thrilled to welcome Andrew Harrell. Andrew’s journey is one of passion, commitment, and ongoing growth. He began at BFG as an associate in 2018, quickly advanced to lead advisor in 2023, and…

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  16. Three Simple Rules to Grow Your Wealth with Scott Yamamura

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to explore the art and science of financial literacy with our guest, Scott Yamamura. Scott is an expert in communication and design with over 25 years of experience, boasting a Fortune 15 background and numerous industry...

  17. Navigating Culture Shifts and Accountability: Claudia Glover’s Diary of a Financial Advisor

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! Today’s episode is part of our exclusive “Diary of a Financial Advisor” series, where I sit down with fellow advisors to explore their professional paths, motivations, and insights for helping others succeed financially. I’m excited to introduce our guest…

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  18. Transform Your Retirement: Art, Coaching, and Creativity for a Joyful Next Chapter

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In this episode, we’re diving deep into the emotional and creative side of life’s biggest transitions—especially retirement. My guest, Susan Hensley, is a transformational coach, speaker, and author whose mission is to help individuals navigate major life...

  19. How Young Professionals Can Approach Insurance and Financial Planning

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re diving into one of the most essential—yet often overlooked—aspects of a healthy financial life: insurance as part of your risk management strategy. I’m delighted to welcome back Jillian Howell, a talented Client Service Associate…

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  20. Building Real Relationships in a Digital World: Steve Spiro’s Secrets to Meaningful Networking

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re exploring the power of authentic connection, reinvention, and the art of building relationships—especially valuable skills for those finding their “next act” in life and in retirement. Joining me today is Steve Spiro, also known as...

  21. Navigating College Decisions and Affording Education with Tony Breen

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! I’m your host, Eric Brotman, and on today’s Diary of a Financial Advisor segment, we’re shining a light on the journey of college students and recent graduates as they navigate the complex world of higher education, student loans, scholarships, and…

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  22. Navigating IRS Nightmares: Tax Solutions, Relief, and Real-Life Wins with Morgan Anderson

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re going right into the heart of an anxiety-inducing topic for many: tax debt and IRS troubles. Whether it’s unexpected balance dues, inheritance issues, or business downturns, finding yourself in the IRS’s crosshairs is more…

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  23. New Perspectives in Finance: Jillian Howell’s Story of Growth and Motivation

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! On today’s episode, we’re excited to bring you another entry in our “Diary of a Financial Advisor” segment, where we spotlight the unique voices, journeys, and motivations of financial professionals passionate about their clients’ success. I had the…

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  24. Seven Money Conversations That Will Change Your Life with Skyler Fleming

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re deep diving into the power of money conversations—why talking about your finances is crucial, and how it can serve as the foundation for a life of financial independence and fulfillment. Joining me is Skyler Fleming, financial…

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  25. Football, Finance, and Finding Purpose: Manny Essien’s Journey to Financial Advisor and Advocate

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! I’m your host, Eric Brotman, and today’s episode offers a unique peek behind the curtain at the real-life journeys of financial professionals with our “Diary of a Financial Advisor” series. Our focus is on career growth, diversity in the financial planning...

  26. Strategic Giving, Estate Planning, and Fostering Lasting Legacies in Underserved Communities

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we dive into the intersection of estate planning, philanthropy, and building legacies—especially within underrepresented communities. I’m joined by the remarkable Shari Fleming, an estate planning attorney and philanthropic advisor whose...

  27. Empowering Female Advisors and Building Inclusive Firms with Lena Nebel

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, I’m excited to bring you a very special installment from our “Diary of a Financial Advisor” series. We’re diving into the professional journey, passions, and perspectives of an inspiring leader in the financial world: Lena Nebel, CFP®....

  28. Making Downsizing Manageable: How to Organize, Donate, and De-Stress Before Retirement

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! Today’s episode is all about conquering clutter, downsizing with dignity, and organizing your life for the next big transition—whether that’s retirement, a move, or simply refreshing your space for a more purpose-driven future. Joining me in the studio is...

  29. Redefining Retirement: Eric Brotman on Legacy, Mentorship, and Financial Wellness

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! Today’s episode turns the tables for a special edition of our “Diary of a Financial Advisor” segment. Instead of my usual role as host, I’m stepping into the interviewee seat and handing the mic over to Tony Breen, BFG’s talented intern and a student at...

  30. Empowering Women to Master Money: A Conversation with Chelsea Williams, the Money Whisperer

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the intersection of financial empowerment, psychology, and redefining money conversations—especially for women. Joining me is Chelsea Williams, also known as the Money Whisperer, and the host of the Always and Never…

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  31. From Intern to CFO: Yanni Niebuhr’s Fourteen-Year Financial Journey at BFG

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to welcome someone I know not only as a colleague but as a friend and business partner—Yanni Niebuhr. As part of our Diary of a Financial Advisor series, I got to sit down with Yanni, who’s celebrating an incredible 14 years...

  32. Navigating Divorce and Retirement: Insights from 50 Years in Family Law with Leon Berg

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re diving into a critical and sometimes overlooked topic: divorce and its profound impact on your financial and personal future. I’m joined in the studio by Leon W. Berg, a highly awarded divorce attorney with 50 years of experience...

  33. How Teaching Skills Translate to Client Success with Hannah Dennis

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! I’m your host, Eric Brotman, and today’s episode features a unique perspective in our “Diary of a Financial Advisor” series. While we typically interview seasoned professionals in the financial planning space, this episode spotlights someone who is building…

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  34. Healing Through Art: How Dr. Vasu Tolia Transformed Her Life and Career

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! Today’s episode is one that speaks directly to the heart of reinvention and the pursuit of passion long after the first chapter of your career has closed. I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Vasu Tolia as my guest—a remarkable individual whose journey from a…

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  35. The Realities of Becoming a Financial Advisor: Career Lessons from Cody Niedermeier

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on what it means to grow—personally and professionally—within the world of financial advising. I’m joined by Cody Niedermeier, who returns for his second visit to our “Diary of a Financial Advisor” segment....

  36. Breaking Financial Trauma and Building Abundance with Alejandra Rojas

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In this episode, we’re diving deep into the intersection of money, mindset, and healing from financial trauma. I’m thrilled to be joined by Alejandra Rojas, an entrepreneur, writer, and founder of the Brown Way to Money platform. As a financial mentor and…

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  37. Planning for Parenthood: Financial Advising and Family Planning with Cody Niedermeier

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s Diary of a Financial Advisor entry, we’re shining a light on one of life’s biggest transitions: preparing—personally and financially—for starting a family. I’m thrilled to be joined by Cody Niedermeier, who brings both professional and personal...

  38. Blended Family, Missing Will: What Happens When You Don’t Plan for the Unexpected

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s heartfelt and illuminating episode, we take a closer look at one of the most challenging—and often overlooked—topics in financial planning: preparing for the loss of a loved one, managing estates, and navigating the complexities of family and...

  39. Networking, Leadership, and Impact: Andrew Harrell’s Role in the Future of Financial Advice

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes of the financial planning profession with our recurring segment, Diary of a Financial Advisor. I’m excited to welcome back Andrew Harrell—a second-time guest and a perfect example of what it looks like…

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  40. Lessons from Gaming: Building a Career with YouTube Skills in the Financial World

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! On today’s episode, we’re digging into the evolving world of content creation, self-directed IRAs, and the power of pivoting careers—especially when your passions and professional path take an unexpected but rewarding turn. I’m excited to introduce my…

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  41. Building Financial Wellness and Community: Kobe Bolanos’ Journey at BFG Financial Advisors

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, I’m delighted to bring you another entry in our “Diary of a Financial Advisor” segment, where we dive deep into the journeys, motivations, and unique perspectives of professionals in the financial planning world. Today, my guest is Kobe...

  42. Shifting the Prism: Karyn Polak on Impact Investing and Doing Good with Your Money

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the world of values-driven finance and social impact investing—a topic that blends doing well financially with doing good in the world. I’m joined in the studio by Karyn Polak, founder and Chief Activator of Shift the...

  43. Behind the Scenes at BFG: Beth Nori on Tax Planning and Financial Advisor Life

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! Today’s episode takes you behind the scenes of the financial planning world with an in-depth look at what it means to be a financial advisor dedicated to serving clients’ best interests—sometimes from out of the spotlight. I’m joined by Beth Nori, a…

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  44. Multifamily Real Estate Investing: Risks, Rewards, and Getting Started with Veena Jetti

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the world of real estate investing, with a special focus on multifamily properties. Joining us is Veena Jetti, founding partner of VIVE Funds, a commercial real estate firm known for curating conservative investment...

  45. Camden Roots to Financial Growth: Shakirrah Clarke Gunther’s Inspiring Journey

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today’s Diary of a Financial Advisor entry, we dive into the journey of a dedicated financial professional who rose from humble beginnings to making impactful strides in the financial services industry. Joining us on the podcast is Shakirrah Clarke...

  46. How to Buy a House Without a Buyer’s Agent with Nick Aufenkamp

    Welcome back to Don’t Retire… Graduate! In today's episode, I'm excited to dive deep into the world of real estate with our special guest, Nick Aufenkamp. Nick is a real estate agent who's embarked on a unique path, teaching homebuyers how to navigate the buying process without a buyer's agent,...

  47. Empowering Client Success: Kirby Ososki on the Heart of Financial Services

    Welcome back to another Diary of a Financial Advisor segment of Don't Retire... Graduate! . Our special guest is Kirby Ososki, a remarkable individual with 18 years of experience in the financial industry, currently working at BFG—not as a financial advisor, but as a Registered Client Service...

  48. The Road to Inclusive Planning: DJ Jeyaram on Trusts and Special Needs

    Welcome back to Don't Retire... Graduate! On today’s episode, we’re returning to a topic we began discussed earlier in the season: planning for families with special needs. I am thrilled to be joined by DJ Jeyaram, a dedicated attorney whose personal journey into this field was profoundly...

  49. Finding Purpose in Finance: Akram Ibrahim’s Journey with BFG

    Welcome back to another Diary of a Financial Advisor segment of "Don't Retire... Graduate!" Joining Eric today is Akram Ibrahim, who brings a unique perspective to his role as the firm's lead trader. His journey at BFG didn't start from a calculated career plan but rather from a serendipitous...

  50. Wealth-Building Secrets for HENRYs (High Earners, Not Rich Yet)

    Welcome back to Don't Retire... Graduate! In today’s episode, we're focusing on a specific group of people: HENRYs, or High Earners, Not Rich Yet. Joining us on the podcast today is Jude Wilson, Chief Financial Strategist at Centrist Financial Strategies. With over 25 years of experience, he...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Don’t Retire… Graduate! is the podcast that invites you to rethink what retirement really means. Hosted by Certified Financial Planner Practitioner Eric Brotman, we’re here to guide you in transforming the traditional concept of retirement into an exciting and enriching graduation—a time to embark on new adventures, embrace lifelong passions, and define what success and happiness look like in this new chapter of life.Retirement isn’t just about stepping away from a career; it’s about stepping into a life filled with purpose, joy, and fulfillment. Whether you're on the brink of retirement or just starting to think about it, this podcast will help you discover what it takes to not just survive, but thrive in your post-career years. We’ll explore how to live a fun, productive, and meaningful life by setting new goals, pursuing passions that light you up, and building a legacy that truly reflects who you are.Each episode features in-depth conversations with a diverse range of guests—from

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Eric Brotman

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Don't Retire...Graduate! have?

Don't Retire...Graduate! currently has 253 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Don't Retire...Graduate! about?

Don’t Retire… Graduate! is the podcast that invites you to rethink what retirement really means. Hosted by Certified Financial Planner Practitioner Eric Brotman, we’re here to guide you in transforming the traditional concept of retirement into an exciting and enriching graduation—a time to embark...

How often does Don't Retire...Graduate! release new episodes?

Don't Retire...Graduate! publishes regularly with 253 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.

Where can I listen to Don't Retire...Graduate!?

You can listen to Don't Retire...Graduate! on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Don't Retire...Graduate!?

Don't Retire...Graduate! is created and hosted by Eric Brotman.
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