When the energy crisis hit the United States in the late 1970s, few could have predicted that it would spark the creation of a family business that would stand the test of time. For Scott Groves, now CEO of CUI Distribution in Greenville, South Carolina, that story began with his father’s vision to meet a simple but vital need: helping people heat their homes affordably and safely.
Kerosene Heaters to a Heating Products Leader
Back then, gas lines wrapped around city blocks, inflation soared, and interest rates climbed into the double digits. Scott’s father, then a furniture retailer in Lansdale, Pennsylvania, saw an opportunity. By selling kerosene heaters directly in his store, he tapped into a growing demand for alternative energy sources. That small pivot turned into a booming venture—within three years, he and his partner sold over a million heaters across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.
With the business’s early root in heater sales, it evolved into CUI Distribution, known for carrying a massive inventory of heating-products from top manufacturers. The company emphasizes fast availability and wide selection.
Adapting to Change While Staying True to Core Values
Scott’s leadership reflects a deep respect for the past and a clear vision for the future: “We’ve always been about meeting real needs. The products may change, but that mission doesn’t.” His story highlights how innovation and adaptability can sustain a business across generations.
CUI’s evolution—rooted in resilience, foresight, and family-values—serves as a reminder that smart, sustainable growth isn’t just about reacting to challenges, but anticipating them. It’s a philosophy that mirrors the principles of intelligent investing: long-term thinking, disciplined decision-making, and trust in the foundations that endure.
More From Scott Groves
Please be sure to subscribe to our podcasts as we will be interviewing Scott on upcoming podcasts where he shares valuable insights on principles of stewardship, adaptability, and long-term thinking that drive both business and investing success.
Scott Groves Bio
Scott Groves is the Chief Executive Officer of CUI Distribution, a leading heating products supplier headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina. With more than four decades of experience in the industry, Scott has guided CUI through significant growth and transformation since taking over the family business founded by his father in 1978.
Under his leadership, CUI has expanded from its origins in kerosene heaters and cans to become a trusted distributor serving residential, commercial, and industrial heating markets across the nation. Known for his practical leadership style and deep commitment to customer service, Scott emphasizes innovation, reliability, and family values as the foundation of CUI’s success.
 

In this episode of Intelligent Money Minute, Hans Blake, CFA, CPA, sits down with Mike Meilinger, CPA, ABV, CFF, PFS, and managing partner of Meilinger Consulting, on financial freedom truly means and some of the most common blind spots that even successful business owners face.
Redefining Financial Freedom
For many of Mike’s clients, financial freedom isn’t defined by a specific dollar amount. Instead, it’s about having the confidence and flexibility to make decisions on their own terms—knowing they have the financial foundation to pursue new ventures or retire comfortably.
Mike emphasizes that predictable cash flow and tax efficiency are key pillars of true financial independence. He and his team help clients identify concentration risks, diversify income streams, and structure their businesses to operate more sustainably. As Mike explains, “Tax efficiency is one of the main drivers of financial independence. It’s not just about what you earn—it’s about what you keep.”
He also encourages business owners to invest in assets that create stability outside of their primary income, such as owning the real estate their business occupies or working closely with a financial advisor to build diversified wealth over time.
Building a Sellable Business
When discussing business exits, Mike notes that about 80% of privately held businesses in the U.S. aren’t sellable. The biggest reason? Overreliance on the owner. If a business can’t run without its founder, it has little transferable value. He uses a powerful analogy: “If the business is a tent and the owner is the pole, what happens when you pull out the pole?”
Creating documented systems, empowering employees, and building a playbook for how the business operates all make it more attractive to buyers—and help owners step back without the company collapsing.
Avoiding the Biggest Blind Spots
Beyond finances, Mike highlights several personal and operational blind spots that can derail even the most successful entrepreneurs. These include neglecting health, overlooking key relationships, failing to embrace technology, and reactive tax planning instead of proactive strategy. He also stresses the importance of having a formal exit plan—both for the business and for life after it.
Hans adds that technology adoption, such as leveraging automation and AI, is increasingly vital for firms that want to stay competitive and efficient. Both agree that maintaining balance between financial goals, health, and relationships is crucial to enjoying the rewards of long-term success.
More From Mike Meilinger
Please be sure to subscribe to our podcasts as we will be interviewing Mike on upcoming podcasts where he shares valuable insights on how proactive tax planning, disciplined financial behavior, and long-term business strategy can create lasting success.
Mike Meilinger Bio
Mike Meilinger is the leader and visionary of Meilinger. He’s worked in public accounting since 1995. He has earned over 10 prof designations and his claim to fame is that he’s never failed a professional exam.
Mike’s passion is people. His “why” is he believes that every business owner should have a spiritual vision and that vision should be how they impact the lives of the people they serve. Mike’s vision is to dramatically impact the lives of his customers, his employees, and his vendors.
Outside of work, Mike loves working out and staying healthy. He’s tremendously committed to lifelong learning and is always studying things he thinks can help his clients and his employees get to the next level.

In this episode of Intelligent Money Minute, Hans Blake, CFA, CPA, interviews Mat Hultquist, CPA and president of The Hultquist Firm, a tax strategy and advisory firm in Greenville, South Carolina. Mat shares how his journey from Arthur Andersen to entrepreneurship shaped his approach to serving clients and building lasting relationships.

In recent years, the topic of wealth transfer has gained significant attention, especially regarding the financial futures of women and widows. Kathleen, a financial expert and advocate, shared her insights in a recent discussion about the immense shift of wealth projected to occur over the next few decades. With estimates ranging from $30 trillion to $84 trillion, this transfer, largely from baby boomers, will redefine financial landscapes for women across generations.
A Historic Shift in Wealth Dynamics
For decades, the baby boomer generation—those born between 1946 and 1964—has been the cornerstone of economic activity. As the youngest members of this generation turn 60 and the oldest approach their 80s, the wealth they’ve accumulated is beginning to transition. Boston College’s Center on Wealth and Philanthropy estimates that 70% of this wealth will pass to women, with widows inheriting a substantial portion.
Kathleen highlights a poignant example: Ruth Gutterman, a 93-year-old widow, who recently donated $1 billion inherited from her late husband to Einstein College of Medicine. While few inheritances are this monumental, the significance of women stepping into roles as wealth managers cannot be overstated.
Challenges in Navigating Wealth Inheritance
Inheriting wealth often comes during a time of profound loss, adding emotional complexity to an already intricate process. Kathleen notes that many widows face hurdles such as transferring accounts, navigating paperwork, and understanding legal implications. Even financial custodians may struggle with the nuances, leading to delays or errors.
To address these challenges, advisors are creating safeguards, such as enhanced contractual language, to protect clients. For example, provisions ensure funds are only accessed with proper documentation, safeguarding against potential fraud while giving families peace of mind during a vulnerable time.
Preparing for the Wealth Transfer
With a significant wealth shift on the horizon, women and widows can take steps to ensure they are prepared:

* Build Trusted Relationships with Advisors
Selecting an advisor who understands the unique challenges of wealth inheritance is essential. Kathleen emphasizes the importance of finding someone knowledgeable about estate planning, taxes, and the emotional aspects of managing newfound wealth.
* Educate Yourself
Financial literacy is a cornerstone of independence. Resources like the Women’s Institute for a Secure Retirement (WISER) provide tools specifically tailored for women. These include free guides, webinars, and podcasts that empower individuals to make informed decisions.
* Protect Against Fraud
Having measures in place to verify requests for funds or account changes is vital. Trusted advisors can act as a buffer, ensuring all actions are thoroughly vetted and aligned with the client’s best interests.
* Define Your Legacy
Wealth transfer offers an opportunity to align financial decisions with personal values. Whether supporting family, funding education, or contributing to philanthropic causes, women and widows can shape a legacy that extends beyond their lifetime.

Moving Forward with Confidence
The great wealth transfer represents more than a redistribution of assets—it’s a pivotal moment for women to take the reins of financial decision-making. With the right support systems, education, and advisors, women and widows can navigate this transition with confidence and purpose, ensuring their financial futures are secure and impactful.
As Kathleen reminds us, preparation is key. By equipping themselves with knowledge and trusted guidance, women can transform this wealth transfer into a lasting opportunity for growth and empowerment.
More From Kathleen
Some of our most popular blogs are the financial scam series we posted on our website.

 


For many, estate planning feels like something to worry about later in life. However, Chace Campbell, a seasoned attorney, sheds light on why new parents should make this a priority. In a recent episode of Intelligent Money Minute, Chace emphasized how having a will early on is essential, especially when children are involved. From safeguarding assets to ensuring that a trusted guardian is in place, Chace shared invaluable advice for new parents looking to protect their family’s future.
The Importance of Estate Planning for New Parents
Chace explains that for parents, estate planning is about securing the well-being of their children. While many young parents might assume they don’t need a will, the truth is that intestacy laws—laws that determine asset distribution if someone dies without a will—can result in complex and unintended consequences.
“If a young family has no will in place, the division of assets can become complicated,” Chace says. In one scenario, a husband with no will passed away, leaving his wife and newborn child. The law dictated that the wife would only inherit half of the husband’s estate, with the other half going to their child. This means the wife would have to go through the courts to access her child’s share of the estate, causing undue stress during an already difficult time.
Why Minor Children Inheriting Assets Can Lead to Challenges
One of the unique challenges that arise when parents pass away without a will is the issue of minor children inheriting assets. In the absence of a will, minors may inherit substantial assets, such as a home, that they are not able to manage themselves. This leaves the surviving parent in a difficult position, needing to obtain court approval for any financial decisions related to those assets.
Chace describes a scenario in which a wife was unable to sell the family home without legal authorization because her young child inherited half of the property. “She wanted to sell the house and move closer to her support system,” Chace explains, “but legally, she only owned half of it.” Situations like these can be prevented with a straightforward will, which would allow parents to determine how their assets are handled in their absence.
The Role of a Will in Designating Guardianship
Beyond asset distribution, a will is crucial for designating a legal guardian for children. Without this clear direction, the court decides on a guardian, which could lead to family disputes and additional emotional strain. “Naming a guardian in your will ensures that your child is cared for by someone you trust,” Chace notes. For new parents, this is one of the most important aspects of creating a will, providing peace of mind that their child’s future is secure.
Estate Planning Laws Across States
While each state’s intestacy laws vary slightly, the core principles remain similar across the U.S. In Chace’s example, South Carolina laws dictate a 50-50 split between the spouse and child. In other states, these percentages may differ, but the underlying issue is the same: without a will, families are subject to the state’s rules for asset distribution, which may not align with their wishes.
Chace’s advice is clear: “Regardless of where you live, having a will in place protects your family from the complex legal processes that intestacy laws can create.”
Taking Action: Why New Parents Should Prioritize a Will
For many new parents, the expense and time commitment of creating a will may feel unnecessary. However, as Chace points out, the potential costs of not having one far outweigh the initial investment. A will not only protects your assets but also shields your family from unnecessary legal and financial stress.
In summary, creating a will allows parents to:

* Designate a guardian for their children
* Specify asset distribution according to their wishes

 


Estate planning often seems like a task for older generations, but Chace Campbell, an experienced attorney, offers a different perspective. In a recent episode of Intelligent Money Minute, Chace highlighted the importance of starting the estate planning process as early as age 18. From legal guardianship changes to healthcare decisions, Chace provided valuable insights on why young adults and their families should be proactive about estate planning.
The Right Time to Start
According to Chace, the optimal time to begin thinking about estate planning is when an individual turns 18. Before that age, parents have legal guardianship and can make medical or financial decisions for their child. However, once a person turns 18, they are legally considered an adult, and parents lose the ability to make those decisions without proper legal documentation.
Chace explains, “The moment that child turns 18, parents are no longer able to handle any of the child’s affairs, financial or health.” This means that in the case of a medical emergency, if an 18-year-old does not have a power of attorney in place, parents may need to go through an expensive and time-consuming probate process just to speak on behalf of their child.
Essential Documents for Young Adults
For young adults, Chace recommends having at least three key documents in place:

* A Simple Will: While this might seem premature, a will ensures that any assets or responsibilities are handled according to the individual’s wishes.
* Power of Attorney (Financial): This durable document allows a trusted person, often a parent, to manage financial matters if the young adult is incapacitated.
* Healthcare Power of Attorney: This document ensures that someone can make medical decisions if the individual is unable to do so. In scenarios such as a car accident or coma, the absence of this document can leave parents unable to consent to vital medical treatments due to legal and HIPAA restrictions.

Here’s a compelling example: “A junior in college gets into an accident and ends up in a coma. Without a healthcare power of attorney, the parents are left helpless, unable to even talk to the hospital staff about their child’s condition.”
Understanding Power of Attorney
Chace further explains the two primary types of power of attorney—financial and healthcare. The durable power of attorney refers to a document that remains effective even if the individual is incapacitated, which is critical for both financial and medical decisions. In many cases, these documents include language that covers end-of-life decisions as well, simplifying the estate planning process.
In some states, healthcare power of attorney and end-of-life planning documents are separate, but Chace notes that in South Carolina, the two have been combined into a single document, allowing the appointed person to handle all medical decisions, from routine procedures to end-of-life care.
Why Early Estate Planning Matters
Chace’s advice is clear: estate planning isn’t just for the elderly. “Before you turn 18, you should be making an appointment to visit an attorney,” he emphasizes. Even though it might feel early, having these essential documents in place can provide peace of mind for both young adults and their families.
As Chace concludes, estate planning is about preparedness—ensuring that loved ones are legally able to help when needed. With the right steps, individuals can avoid legal hurdles and ensure that their wishes are honored in any situation.
For families looking to start the estate planning process, it’s never too early to consult an attorney and make sure these vital documents are in place.
Stay tuned for more interviews with Chace, where we’ll dive deeper into his expertise and the valuable lessons he has to share with our intelligent investing audience,

The landscape of widowhood has seen significant changes in recent years, particularly in the realm of financial planning and wealth management. Kathleen Rehl, a financial expert and advocate for empowering widows, shared her perspective on these evolving trends in a recent interview. With over four years since her last appearance on our podcast, Kathleen discussed the growing emphasis on financial independence for widows and the ways technology and education are reshaping their experiences.
A Shift Toward Financial Independence
Historically, widows often relied on family support, both financially and emotionally, after the loss of a spouse. Kathleen reflects on past generations, noting how widows in the Victorian era would wear “widow’s weeds” (black garments symbolizing mourning)  for an entire year. Even her own great-grandmother moved in with family after becoming widowed, a common practice in earlier times. Today, however, there is a strong shift towards financial independence for widows, a trend Kathleen views as crucial.
Women, in general, are gaining more financial autonomy, pursuing education, and building long-lasting careers. For widows, this independence is even more essential as they navigate life after loss. “There is much greater availability of financial education out there now,” Kathleen says. She highlights resources like the Women’s Institute for a Secure Retirement (WISER), which offers free white papers, podcasts, and educational events aimed specifically at women and widows.
The Role of Technology and Social Networks
In addition to financial education, technology has created a more connected and supportive environment for widows. Kathleen points to organizations like Soaring Spirits International and its online community, Widows Village, where widows can find support groups based on their specific needs, such as young widows with children or those still working. These platforms provide both emotional support and practical advice, helping widows navigate their financial futures.
Kathleen also mentions the rise of events like Camp Widow, which now hosts conferences across the globe, including in Toronto and Australia. At these events, widows gather to learn, connect, and heal. Kathleen will be speaking at the upcoming event in Tampa, Florida, on the stages of widowhood and how to transition through financial matters.
Even artificial intelligence (AI) is playing a role in supporting widows. In a lighthearted experiment, Kathleen shared how she used ChatGPT to ask for advice for new widows, and within seconds, the AI returned helpful information — even recommending her own book, Moving Forward on Your Own: A Financial Guidebook for Widows.
Navigating Grief and Financial Planning
One of the most significant challenges widows face is making sound financial decisions during the early stages of grief. Kathleen discusses the phenomenon of “widow’s brain,” where intense grief can cloud judgment and make decision-making difficult. “It’s not that you’re going crazy,” she reassures, “it’s just that widow’s brain in that early, very deep grief.” This insight underscores the importance of having a strong financial plan in place and seeking support from trusted advisors during this vulnerable time.
As Kathleen continues to advocate for widows’ financial independence, her message is clear: with the right education, resources, and support networks, widows can move forward with confidence, even in the face of loss. For those interested in learning more, Kathleen’s book offers a valuable guide to navigating financial matters after the death of a spouse.
More From Kathleen
Some of our most popular blogs are the financial scam series we posted on our website. We talk about how to emotionally heal after being financially scammed,

 


In this episode of Intelligent Money Minute, we sat down with Chace Campbell to dive into estate planning essentials. If you’re new to the concept of estate planning or just starting to think about it, this guide will break down the fundamental documents and strategies you need to consider.
What is Estate Planning?
Estate planning involves preparing for the management and distribution of your assets during your life and after your death. It’s about making sure your wishes are honored, protecting your loved ones, and minimizing any legal complexities. Chace emphasizes that estate planning is not just for the wealthy or the elderly—everyone can benefit from having a basic plan in place.
The Three Core Documents of Estate Planning
According to Chace, estate planning can be boiled down to three essential documents:

* Power of Attorney: This document designates someone to make financial decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. It’s crucial for ensuring your financial affairs are managed properly during times of incapacity.
* Healthcare Power of Attorney: This appoints someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you cannot. It ensures that your healthcare preferences are respected and that someone you trust is in charge of your care.
* Will: A will serves several purposes: it designates who will manage your estate, outlines where your assets should go after debts are paid, and specifies guardianship for minor children. Essentially, it answers the questions: Who wraps up your legal life? Where do your assets go? And, if applicable, where do your children go?

Avoiding Probate: A Deeper Look
Chace introduces the concept of probate—the legal process of transferring assets after someone dies. While probate ensures an orderly transition, it can be time-consuming, expensive, and public. Avoiding probate can be beneficial, and Chace explains this using a soccer analogy with three lines of defense:

* First Line of Defense: Living Trust (Offense)
A living or revocable trust can keep your assets out of probate. By placing your assets in a trust, you maintain control during your lifetime and set clear instructions for their distribution after your death. This is akin to having a strong offense that keeps the ball out of the opposing team’s half.
* Second Line of Defense: Operation of Contract (Midfielders)
This includes assets that transfer by operation of contract, such as life insurance policies, retirement accounts with designated beneficiaries, and payable-on-death accounts. These assets bypass probate and go directly to the beneficiaries you’ve named.
* Third Line of Defense: Operation of Law (Defenders)
Assets that transfer by operation of law include jointly owned properties with rights of survivorship. If one owner dies, the asset automatically passes to the surviving owner without going through probate.

Many people fear probate because it is a lengthy, public, and sometimes costly process. In South Carolina, for example, probate takes a minimum of eight months and often extends to a year or more. The court process can feel bureaucratic and confusing, even to seasoned attorneys. However, with the right estate planning strategies, probate can often be avoided.
Regular Maintenance of Your Estate Plan
Chace emphasizes that estate planning is not a “set it and forget it” task. Your estate plan should be reviewed and updated accordingly as your life changes—whether you acquire new assets, sell old ones, or experience significant life events. Just like driving, where minor adjustments keep you on the road, regular tweaks to your estate plan ensure it remains aligned with your current wishes and circumstances.
Estate planning is about more than just distributing assets; it’s about safeguarding your legacy,

In this episode of Intelligent Money Minute, we explore an often overlooked aspect of retirement planning: preparing emotionally, psychologically, and relationally for this significant life change. While financial readiness is crucial, it’s equally important to ensure that couples are prepared for the non-financial aspects of retirement, such as how they will spend their time and maintain their relationships.
The Importance of Non-Financial Preparation for Retirement
Retirement isn’t just about having enough money to live comfortably; it’s also about understanding how you’ll spend your time and how it will affect your relationships. We often help our clients prepare for the emotional and psychological shifts that accompany this new phase of life. Being mentally and emotionally prepared is just as vital as being financially secure.
During the podcast, we discussed an exercise we use to help couples visualize their future together. Recently, I worked with a couple where the wife had already retired, and the husband was about to retire. To help them align their expectations, I gave them a simple exercise: a weekly schedule divided into 28 time blocks, representing four segments—morning, noon, afternoon, and evening—across the seven days of the week.
The Benefits of This Simple Planning Tool
The couple was asked to fill in each time block with activities they envisioned for themselves during retirement. When they returned, they shared their plans with each other. The wife had filled her schedule with activities such as bridge games, church meetings, and social events. The husband, however, was surprised to find himself only included in two of her planned activities. This revelation led to an important discussion about how they would spend their time together and balance individual and shared activities.
This exercise is a powerful tool for sparking meaningful conversations about expectations and shared goals in retirement. It helps couples understand each other’s desires and plan for a fulfilling life together, beyond just the financial aspects.
If you’re preparing for retirement, consider trying this exercise with your partner. To make it easier, we’ve created a downloadable 28-block template that you can use to plan your activities and discuss your expectations. This practical tool is designed to help you think through how you want to spend your time and ensure that both partners’ needs are met.
More From Kathleen Rehl
Some of our most popular blogs are the financial scam series we posted on our website. We talk about how to emotionally heal after being financially scammed, how to help others who have been financially scammed, and 11 ways to protect yourself from being financially scammed. You can find all of those on our blog page.
Please be sure to subscribe to our podcasts as we will be interviewing Kathleen on an upcoming podcast where she explains how to simply write a legacy letter to your family and friends. You will not want to miss it. You can purchase Kathleen’s book here.  
Kathleen Rehl Bio
Kathleen M. Rehl, Ph.D., CFP®, CeFT® wrote the multi-award-winning book, Moving Forward on Your Own: A Financial G...

 


On our latest episode of Intelligent Money Minute, we had the pleasure of interviewing Chace Campbell, an experienced attorney with over 20 years of legal expertise. During the conversation, Chace broke down the often-confusing concepts surrounding powers of attorney, providing clarity on the differences between durable, limited, and general powers of attorney. For those navigating estate planning or concerned about future incapacities, understanding these distinctions is crucial.
What Are Powers of Attorney?
To begin, Chace explained that the term “power of attorney” essentially refers to the legal authority given to one person (the agent) to act on behalf of another (the principal). This authority can vary significantly in scope, depending on the type of power of attorney in place.

* General Power of Attorney: This is the broadest form, allowing the agent to act on behalf of the principal in a wide range of matters. Chace highlighted that this could include managing financial affairs, making healthcare decisions, or handling legal matters, especially if the principal becomes incapacitated and unable to manage these tasks themselves.
* Limited Power of Attorney: In contrast, a limited power of attorney restricts the agent’s authority to specific tasks or decisions. For example, Chace mentioned scenarios where someone might need to authorize another person to withdraw a specific amount from their bank account or sign documents for the sale of a property while they are out of town. The limitations are clearly defined within the document, ensuring the agent’s authority only extends as far as necessary.
* Durable Power of Attorney: The concept of durability adds another layer to powers of attorney. As Chace explained, durability ensures that the agent’s authority remains in effect even if the principal becomes legally incapacitated. This is particularly important in cases where the principal might fall into a coma or suffer from a condition that prevents them from making informed decisions. Without this durability clause, the power of attorney would typically become void if the principal loses mental capacity.

Legal Incapacity and Its Implications
Delving deeper, Chace clarified what legal incapacity entails and how it relates to the durability of a power of attorney. Legal incapacity can arise in several situations, such as when a principal is in a coma, suffers from severe cognitive impairment, or is otherwise unable to understand and manage their affairs.
Chace emphasized that the durability clause is vital in these scenarios because it ensures that the agent can continue to act on behalf of the principal, providing continuity and protection for their interests. This clause is essential for anyone concerned about the possibility of becoming incapacitated and wanting to ensure that their affairs are managed according to their wishes.
Key Takeaways
As our conversation with Chace Campbell highlighted, understanding the distinctions between general, limited, and durable powers of attorney is crucial for effective estate planning and legal preparedness. Each type serves a specific purpose, and selecting the right one depends on the individual’s circumstances and the level of authority they wish to grant.
For those looking to secure their future and ensure that their legal and financial matters are handled appropriately, consulting with an experienced attorney like Chace is a wise step. By doing so, you can create a tailored plan that addresses your unique needs and provides peace of mind, knowing that your affairs are in capable hands.
Stay tuned for more interviews with Chace, where we’ll dive deeper into his expertise and the valuable lessons he has to share with our intelligent investing audience, so be sure to subscribe to our Show more...