Wadsworth, Ohio, is soaring thanks to a unique partnership between aviation enthusiasts and community leaders. In this episode, Ben is joined by Mike Bowser, a retired USAF pilot and President of Inspire Aviation, and Tom Strong, organizer of Balloons Over Wadsworth. Together, they share how two grassroots efforts have evolved into major community events that fuel economic growth, inspire the next generation of aviators, and bring thousands of people together every year.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 💵 Economic Impact: how local aviation events are driving growth in Wadsworth 🎓 STEM Outreach: inspiring young minds through hands-on aviation programs ⚙️ Aviation Challenges: workforce shortages and opportunities for skilled trades 🚀 Future Vision: expansion plans, partnerships, and continued community engagement 🙌 Get Involved: volunteering, sponsorships, and ways to support aviation education   Resources for this episode: Learn more about Inspire Aviation: https://www.inspireaviation.org/ Learn more about Balloons Over Wadsworth: https://www.balloonsoverwadsworth.com/   For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

The “One Big Beautiful Bill” may be a mouthful, but it brings major changes for retirees. In this follow-up episode, Ben and Kaitlin dive deeper into how the new tax law impacts retirement planning strategies. They discuss expanded standard deductions for those over 65, the long-term effects on required minimum distributions (RMDs), and how Roth conversions can help manage future taxes.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📊 Updates to tax brackets and standard deductions 🕰️ Why today’s tax moves affect future RMDs 🔄 Roth conversion opportunities under OBBB ⚖️ Key considerations like SALT deductions and legislative changes 💡 Why a personalized plan is important for long-term retirement success   For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

The recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) is already reshaping the retirement planning landscape, and it’s left many pre-retirees and retirees wondering what it truly means for them. In this episode, Ben and Kaitlin break down the most talked-about provisions, like changes to tax brackets, the permanence of the standard deduction, and how “tax-free Social Security” headlines don’t always tell the whole story. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: ⚖️ Tax brackets remain unchanged for now 🏡 Standard deduction increases offer big relief, but only for some ⏳ Extra deductions for those over 65 will phase out after 2028 📰 Headlines can be misleading, so focus on your own personalized strategy 🔄 “Permanent” tax changes may still shift with future elections For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

Retirement isn’t about hitting a magic number- it’s about building a fulfilling next chapter and creating a life you truly enjoy. In this episode, Ben and Kaitlin share the common themes they’ve noticed among people who thrive after leaving the workforce. From disciplined budgeting habits to seeking guidance on taxes and distributions, they unpack what really drives a fulfilling retirement and why it looks different for everyone. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 💰 Budget discipline translates into retirement success 🏖️ Having a post-retirement game plan eases the transition 👥 Retirement impacts social circles and identity 📊 Planning cash flow and taxes avoids future pitfalls 🗺️ Common themes of retirees who retired successfully  For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

Starting to save and invest can seem complicated, especially with so many options and opinions out there. In this episode, Ben and Kaitlin cut through the noise and lay out a practical order of steps that will put your money to work right away. They’ll walk you through building an emergency fund that truly fits your lifestyle, explain the pros and cons of IRAs, Roth IRAs, and brokerage accounts, and show how each choice can set you up for lasting financial momentum. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 🛟 Building an emergency fund that fits your lifestyle 💼 Using your employer’s 401(k) match as a savings accelerator 📈 Why brokerage accounts can offer more flexibility than IRAs or Roths 🎓 How new 529 plan rules can also boost your child’s retirement ⚖️ Balancing debt payoff with growing your savings For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

What’s the one mistake that can quietly drain your retirement savings year after year? In this episode, Ben and Kaitlin tackle one of the biggest pitfalls retirees face: mismanaging their spending. Ben reveals the real threats to retirement income, and it’s not just inflation. It’s unrealistic budgets, healthcare curveballs, and those spontaneous purchases. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 💸 Why overspending early can ruin your retirement plan 🧾 The difference between realistic and wishful budgeting 🏥 Health insurance traps when you retire before Medicare 📉 What happens when you sell investments in a down market 🏠 How to plan for home projects without derailing your future   For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

BA Schrock Financial Group is turning 13 in August, and this episode is all about looking back- and looking ahead. From humble beginnings in a basement to building a firm known for personalized, relationship-driven planning, Ben and Kaitlin reflect on the journey that got them here. They share the lessons learned, the challenges overcome, and what it really takes to grow a successful advisory business in a competitive and ever-changing industry.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 💡 Ben’s advice to aspiring advisors 📚 Why success in finance requires lifelong learning 🤝 The power of a people-first approach 💼 The shift in the industry toward fee-based and fee-only models 💬 Why referrals are the ultimate compliment   For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

In this episode, Kaitlin and Ben talk about an exciting milestone moment for their firm: being named one of AdvisorHub’s 2025 RIAs to Watch! Ranked #231, BA Schrock Financial Group joins a distinguished group of firms recognized not just for growth, but for balancing scalability, service, and professionalism. Tune in as they reflect on what this honor means, look back on the firm’s humble beginnings, and, most importantly, express their gratitude to the incredible clients and team who made it all possible.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📈 How firms are selected for AdvisorHub’s RIA rankings 🏡 How our small-town team earned this recognition 💬 Why we put service and relationships ahead of growth 🤝 BA Schrock’s journey since 2012   Resources for this episode: See the full list of AdvisorHub’s advisors to watch: https://www.advisorhub.com/advisors-to-watch-ria-2025/   For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

Opening a restaurant is a dream for many, but few realize the relentless risk, sacrifice, and strategy it demands. Chef Anthony Scolaro has done it not once, but twice. In part two, Anthony returns to share the raw truths of restaurant ownership, from managing razor-thin margins to making decisions that impact not only your bottom line but your team’s livelihood. This episode dives into the real math behind running a successful restaurant: capital investment, shifting supply costs, labor challenges, and adapting to sudden economic turns like tariffs and inflation.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 🛠️ How Chef Anthony found funding without the SBA 🧠 The emotional cost of small business ownership 🔁 Adapting fast when the market flips overnight 💬 The pressure of leading a team when times get tough   Check out Chef Anthony Scolaro’s two restaurants: https://thevuewads.com/ https://111bistro.com/   Connect with Chef Scolaro: https://www.instagram.com/chef_scolaro/   For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

From dishwashing at 13 to owning two acclaimed restaurants, Chef Anthony Scolaro has built a culinary career rooted in passion, hustle, and heart. In this episode, Ben sits down with Anthony to explore his journey from the family kitchen to founding 111 Bistro and Vue in Wadsworth. Part one of a two-part discussion is focused more on the man in kitchen. We discuss what it takes to thrive in the restaurant business, how leadership and humility go hand-in-hand, and why creating unforgettable food experiences is about more than just what’s on the plate. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 👨‍🍳 From dishwasher to restaurant owner: Anthony’s path to culinary success 🪑 Why naming a restaurant might be the hardest part 🔁 Balancing creativity, business, and leadership in two kitchens 🍽️ How food events serve as edible business cards 🏡 Where Anthony finds peace away from the heat of the kitchen   Check out Chef Anthony Scolaro’s two restaurants: https://thevuewads.com/ https://111bistro.com/   Connect with Chef Scolaro: https://www.instagram.com/chef_scolaro/   For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

Welcome back to Unlocking Your Financial Future! In this episode, Ben is joined by his wife, Kaitlin, who oversees operations at B.A. Schrock Financial Group. They’re excited to share some great new tech updates for 2025 that will make managing your finances with us easier and more intuitive. Tune in to hear all about how you can access your account information through our website, plus the launch of the new B.A. Schrock Financial Group app! We’ll also dive into some of the additional educational resources available on our site, including market update webinars, blog posts, white papers, and more. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Accessing your account information through our website The launch of the B.A. Schrock Financial Group app An upcoming video tutorial on how to use our client portal The numerous resources available on our website Resources for this episode: Download the B.A. Schrock App https://baschrock-fg.com/app/ For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

The recent passage of the Social Security Fairness Act has sparked significant discussions among public employees, especially in states like Ohio. In our latest podcast episode, Ben is joined by Dan Oaklief, ChFC®, RICP®, CFP® and Colleen LeMasters, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ to dive into the implications of this new law and what it means for those relying on public pensions. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What types of workers/former workers are impacted? How does the law impact the future of Social Security. Impacts on individual planning. For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

In today’s digital age, cyber threats are constantly changing. That’s why it’s more important than ever to stay informed and prepared. We’re thrilled to welcome back cybersecurity expert Ben Zelei from SBT and Palitto Consulting Services, Inc to share insights on the latest scam techniques you need to watch out for. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Ben’s background in cybersecurity and the military Different kinds of phishing, pig butchering, and Ai attacks to be aware of Some educational resources for scam awareness Updating to Windows 11 in October 2025 Resources for this episode: Check out our previous episode with Ben https://unlocking.podbean.com/e/ep-92-cyber-security-and-protecting-yourself-against-cyber-criminals-%e2%80%93-part-2/ Scammer Payback YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@ScammerPayback   For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to talk about some year-end planning strategies. In this two-part episode, Ben and Dan will cover what you need to know and think about before we head into the new year. Last episode, we focused on updates regarding Social Security, and today, we’ll shift our focus to year-end planning from a tax perspective. With significant changes in tax laws on the horizon for 2025, it’s more important than ever to be proactive and plan ahead.  Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Why 2025 is an important year for tax planning How the upcoming election could impact tax laws Considering Roth conversions + year-end contributions to employer-sponsored plans The benefits of HSAs for early retirees + determining the right time to take RMDs The importance of tax loss harvesting at the end of the year   For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to talk about some year-end planning strategies. In this two-part episode, Ben and Dan will cover what you need to know and think about before we head into the new year. Listen in as they discuss the new cost of living adjustments, earnings limits, and the Windfall Elimination Provision. Don’t miss part 2 of this conversation and we talk about year-end tax planning!   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Social Security Cost of Living (COLA) adjustment The FICA Wage Base and Earnings Test Limit increase The average retirement benefit on Social Security right now The impacts of the Windfall Elimination Provision   For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

We’re excited to announce that one of our team members, Dan Oaklief, has recently earned his Certified Financial Planner designation. This is such an awesome achievement and one that he’s worked diligently to accomplish, but what does this actually mean for advisors and clients? Today we’re sitting down with Dan to discuss this milestone, what it means to be a CFP®, and the importance of continuing education in this industry.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What is the value of CFP® accreditation in the field? Why CFP® accreditation is the gold standard in the industry. Dan’s favorite and least favorite part of becoming CFP® accredited. Dan’s advice to people planning to get their CFP®.   For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

In this episode of Unlocking Your Financial Future, Ben is joined by Chief Investment Officer, Keith Lockwood. He’s here to help dive into some of the market volatility we have seen lately and what it could mean for your investments. Tune in as Ben and Keith look at how geopolitical factors can impact the market, how recent recession talk could be a little overblown, and what investors should expect as we head into Q3 and the election season.    Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What was really behind the bad day for the stock market in early August How geopolitical factors can impact the market Why some of the recession talk may be overblown The VIX hitting its third highest day ever How elections invite market volatility   For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

In today’s episode, we’re continuing our conversation on the annual Social Security Trustees Report. In this half of the conversation, we’ll cover some interesting statistics from the report, including the impact of declining birth rates and immigration on Social Security's future. We'll also explore how life expectancy trends and recent events like COVID-19 are influencing projections.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What does it mean that Social Security could be insolvent by 2035? How declining birth rates and changing death rates affect Social Security projections How immigration contributes to and benefits the trust fund The importance of personalized planning when it comes to Social Security decisions   For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

In today’s episode, we’re going to share some updates from the annual Social Security Trustees Report. With Social Security serving as a cornerstone for countless retirees, understanding its current state and future projections is important. Listen in as Ben highlights the key takeaways from the 277-page report that you need to know about.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: The projected depletion of Social Security reserves by 2035 Our office's proactive approach to Social Security planning Raising FICA taxes to address Social Security solvency issues Cutting benefits for current recipients or for new beneficiaries Avoiding fear-based decisions and trusting in long-term planning   For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/

We’re back to finish up our conversation with Deborah and Hannah Wasylko, the dynamic duo behind Baskets Galore. This business specializes in customized corporate gift designs, from branded items to gift baskets featuring local and gourmet selections. If you missed part 1, you can check it out here!   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: How Deborah and Hannah operate the business side of Baskets Galore How inflation has impacted this industry + the delicate balance of managing costs and making decisions for long-term success What Deborah’s creative process looks like + what’s the in the future for Baskets Galore The value of building and maintaining client relationships through thoughtful touch strategies     Get in touch with the Baskets Galore Team https://basketsgaloregifts.com/ Baskets Galore Storefront: 95 Pearl Road, Brunswick, OH 44212 hannah@basketsgaloregifts.com 330-220-0088   For more, visit us online: https://baschrock-fg.com/