Retirement planning has a way of making capable, thoughtful people feel uncertain. One glance at a benefits sheet filled with numbers and acronyms can create the sense that everyone else understands something you somehow missed. The truth is, most people aren’t behind or uninformed—they’re just trying to make sense of options that were never explained in plain language.

In this episode of Compounding Change, host Shannon Davis puts her sister Jenna Stoliker, founder of the Center for Conscious Leadership, in the role of “host” for an honest, curiosity-driven conversation about deferred compensation and the many retirement plans people encounter through work. We’re talking about things like what deferred compensation actually means, why plans like 401(k)s, 403(b)s, 401(a)s, and 457(b)s exist, and how employer-sponsored plans can look similar on paper while functioning very differently in real life.

The episode also addresses the emotional side of money, acknowledging how difficult saving can feel when life is expensive and unpredictable.

It’s important to know that retirement isn’t a cliff. Rather, it’s a runway you build decision by decision. With the right guidance and a clearer understanding of your options, confidence replaces confusion, and progress becomes possible.

Key takeaways

“-Deferred compensation” simply means money you earn now and choose to receive later

-Not all employer-sponsored deferred comp plans work the same way

-Qualified plans (401k, 403b, 457b) differ significantly from non-qualified plans

-457(b) plans offer unique flexibility for public employees, including no early withdrawal penalty after separation

-Roth options flip the tax equation and can add long-term flexibility

-Small savings habits can reveal surprising opportunities when cash flow becomes visible

-Catch-up contributions after age 50 can meaningfully change retirement outcomes

-Liquidity often provides more flexibility than paying off every debt

T-he goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress with the right support

-A trusted advisor helps turn complexity into confidence

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at https://jennastoliker.com/

Chapters:

00:58 – Why retirement feels confusing

03:03 – What deferred compensation really means

06:31 – When “employer-sponsored” isn’t a 401(k)

09:32 – The retirement plan family (401k, 403b, 457b)

11:38 – When saving feels out of reach

19:17–Proactive steps to course correct

22:53 – Retirement strategies closer to retirement

Helpful Links:

Jenna Stoliker: https://jennastoliker.com/

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

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Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a registered

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investment Advisory Services are offered through Retirement Plan Advisors, LLC, a Federally Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge Investment Research and Retirement Planning Advisors are not related to DavisCompoundingChange.com or this podcast.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at https://jennastoliker.com/

Climbing more than a thousand stairs might sound a little extreme, until you realize it can also be a way to say, “Breathing matters.” From firefighters in heavy gear to families climbing in memory or in honor of someone they love, the Fight for Air Climb brings together courage, grief, hope, and determination around something we all share: the simple act of taking a breath. It’s about turning effort into meaning, one step at a time.

In this episode of Compounding Change, host Shannon Davis talks with Catherine Widemire, Development Manager for the American Lung Association in Northeast Ohio. Catherine shares her own story of living with asthma, how a friend convinced her to take on 1,268 steps at Key Tower for the first time, and how that experience eventually led her to the role she’s in today.

Together they unpack what the climb represents for families, lung cancer survivors, people living with COPD or asthma, and the many others who show up every year with names, faces, and stories in their hearts.

We hope that this episode inspires you to take one step forward, or maybe even take on the challenge of 1,268 steps on March 1, 2026 at Key Tower! Whether you’re climbing, volunteering, donating, or simply making one small change this week to help yourself or someone you love breathe a little easier, you’re making compounding change happen.

Key Takeaways:

-Small, consistent movement can make a real difference for lung health over time

-The Fight for Air Climb at Key Tower is 1,268 steps and open to ages seven through 80+

-Firefighters and first responders climb to spotlight the lung risks they face on every shift

-Fundraising supports research, advocacy, and patient programs like Lung Health Navigators and Freedom From Smoking

-Many people first discover lung disease through a “simple” cough or symptom that doesn’t go away

-The American Lung Association is working to improve access to healthcare, vaccines, and lung cancer screenings

-You don’t have to climb to be involved, since volunteering and donating are meaningful ways to support the mission

-Everyday choices like hydration, movement, nutrition, and air quality all compound into better breathing

-Events like the Fight for Air Climb turn personal stories and community support into real-world impact

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at https://jennastoliker.com/

Chapters:

00:57 Introduction

01:45 Catherine’s Story

04:51 Saying Yes to the Climb

06:12 Inside Climb Day

13:39 Fundraising and Priorities for Lungh Health

14:51 Warning Signs of Lung Disease

12:54 Where the Money Goes

21:16 Ways to Get Involved

Helpful Links:

Catherine Widemire, American Lung Association, Climb for Air Event: https://climbcleveland.org

Jenna Stoliker: https://jennastoliker.com/

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

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Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a registered

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investment Advisory Services are offered through Retirement Plan Advisors, LLC, a Federally Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge Investment Research and Retirement Planning Advisors are not related to DavisCompoundingChange.com or this podcast.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.

The Compounding Change

Social Security can feel like one of those complicated systems that everyone pays into but few truly understand. Between rumors that it’s “running out,” confusion about when to start claiming, and mixed advice from every corner, it’s no wonder so many people feel uncertain.

In this episode of Compounding Change, host Shannon Davis switches seats with her sister, Jenna Stoliker, as Jenna takes over the host role for a candid discussion on what Social Security really is, who it helps, and how timing matters. Together, they walk through what determines the right age to claim, why “it depends” is the only honest answer, and how personal health, family needs, and other income sources all play a role.

They also dive into the repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and what that means for firefighters and others in public service who once faced reduced benefits. Shannon outlines how working while receiving Social Security affects your checks, what happens when ex-spouses and survivors enter the picture, and how benefits can be paused, recalculated, or delayed to create more flexibility.

With practical examples and years of experience helping first responders plan their futures, Shannon shows how small, informed decisions today can compound into lasting financial stability.

Key Takeaways:

– Social Security isn’t just a bonus; it’s the foundation of retirement income for millions.

– Claiming early or waiting longer changes your benefit and long-term impact.

– The Windfall Elimination Provision repeal restores fairness for many public servants.

– Working while collecting doesn’t erase your benefit; it just affects timing.

– Spousal and ex-spousal benefits come with key eligibility details.

– Your top 35 earning years determine your Social Security calculation.

– Benefits can be paused or increased after full retirement age.

– Create your SSA account at ssa.gov to protect and understand your benefits.

– A thoughtful plan combines Social Security, pensions, and personal savings.

– Expert guidance can help turn confusion into clarity and confidence.

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at https://jennastoliker.com/

Chapters

00:57– Introduction

02:00 - Personal Confusion

05:20 – What Social Security Really Is

08:09 – When to Start Claiming

11:01 – How Firefighters and Public Servants Are Affected

13:25 – The WEP Repeal

16:51 – Working While Receiving Benefits

20:45 – Mid-Year Retirement and Monthly Testing

21:59 – Is Social Security Going Broke?

23:28 – Spousal and Ex-Spousal Benefits

28:19– Can You Reverse Your Decision?

31:40– How Social Security Fits with Pensions and 457Bs

34:14 – Next Steps for Compounding Change

Helpful Links:

Social Security Website: https://www.ssa.gov/

Jenna Stoliker: https://jennastoliker.com/

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

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Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always...

Some acts of compassion begin quietly, with no spotlight, no plan, and no guarantee that anything will come of them. Yet those moments often plant the seeds for real transformation. Small acts, leading to big change.

In this episode of Compounding Change, host Shannon Davis talks with Erin Riegle, co-founder of Linc Worldwide, a nonprofit organization that grew from a simple Facebook fundraiser into a global mission helping children and families across Kenya.

Together, they explore how Linc Worldwide evolved from building an orphanage to opening a full primary school that now provides education, clean water, food, and healthcare for vulnerable children.

It’s an inspiring conversation about how one “yes” can lead to another, and another, until lives are changed across continents. Whether you’re moved to volunteer, donate, or simply believe that small steps still matter, this story proves that each one truly does.

Key Takeaways:

-Change begins with one intentional act of compassion.

-Education creates lasting, generational impact.

-Trust and accountability sustain real mission work.

-Everyone has gifts that can serve others.

-Giving time can be as meaningful as giving money.

-Challenges can refine your purpose, not stop it.

-Collaboration multiplies the reach of good work.

-Purpose grows when compassion is consistent.

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at https://jennastoliker.com/

Chapters

00:59 – Introduction

02:22 A Moment That Changed Everything

04:46 – The Facebook Fundraiser

10:10 – The Five Core Pillars

15:41 – Opening the School in 2025

22:28 – The Ripple Effect of Getting Involved

31:20 – Advice for Aspiring Changemakers

34:27 – Contact Points and Closing Thoughts

Helpful Links:

Erin Riegle, Linc Worldwide: https://www.lincworldwide.org/

Jenna Stoliker: https://jennastoliker.com/

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

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Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a registered

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investment Advisory Services are offered through Retirement Plan Advisors, LLC, a Federally Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge Investment Research and Retirement Planning Advisors are not related to DavisCompoundingChange.com or this podcast.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.

Retirement can sound like the finish line after decades of working, saving, and striving. But what if it’s really the start of something entirely new? So many people focus on what they’re leaving — a job, the grind, the stress — without ever asking what they’re stepping into.

In this episode of Compounding Change and the Do Something mini-series, hosts Shannon Davis and Jenna Stoliker dive into what it truly means to prepare for retirement.

Together, they explore the practical and personal sides of this major life transition. From understanding Social Security and Medicare to evaluating health, energy, and lifestyle goals, they discuss how to make confident decisions that align with who you are and what you value.

Remember, retirement doesn’t start when the paycheck stops. Your new life begins when you start shaping the life you want to live. Whether you’re five months or five years away, the message is clear: take one small step today toward something that matters, and begin living the future you’ve imagined.

Key Takeaways:

– Retirement isn’t an ending, it’s a beginning.

– Plan for what you’re retiring to, not just what you’re leaving behind.

– Align your plans with your health, energy, finances, and values.

– Keep Social Security, Medicare, and estate documents up to date.

– Emotional readiness matters as much as financial readiness.

– Start small: write down five things you want more of in the next decade.

– Don’t wait to live the life you envision for “someday.”

– Every list, plan, and small step counts now and into retirement.

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at https://jennastoliker.com/

Chapters

00:55 – Rethinking Retirement

01:26 – What Are You Retiring To

03:29 – The Stoliker 5.0 Plan

05:02 – Designing Your Lifestyle, Not Just Your Bucket List

08:33 – The Purpose Factor

10:33 – Identity After Work

12:00 – Small Steps Toward Change

13:27 – Retirement as a Beginning

Helpful Links:

Jenna Stoliker: https://jennastoliker.com/

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

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Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a registered

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investment Advisory Services are offered through Retirement Plan Advisors, LLC, a Federally Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge Investment Research and Retirement Planning Advisors are not related to DavisCompoundingChange.com or this podcast.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at

It’s that time of year when decisions about healthcare coverage can make or break your peace of mind. For many, Medicare open enrollment feels like navigating a maze of deadlines, mailers, and fine print. But with the right guidance, this season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It can be an opportunity to ensure your coverage actually fits your life.

In this episode of Compounding Change, Shannon Davis welcomes back Medicare specialist Amy Terrell to cut through the noise. Amy brings years of experience helping people understand their options and avoid costly mistakes, making complex rules easy to follow.

From prescription drug coverage to switching between Medicare Advantage and supplemental plans, Shannon and Amy dive into the most common choices and missteps that happen during open enrollment. They discuss how employer coverage interacts with Medicare, when special enrollment periods apply, and why it’s so important to have an advisor you can trust.

If you’re staring at a pile of Medicare mailers or wondering if your current plan is still the right fit, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need.

Key Takeaways:

– Open enrollment runs from October 15 to December 7 each year

– You can switch between original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, or change prescription drug plans during this time

– Annual reviews are critical since provider networks and coverage details often change

– Bring a list of doctors, hospitals, and prescriptions when meeting with a Medicare consultant

– Don’t assume last year’s plan is still the best. Review it against current needs

– Common mistakes include ignoring reviews or missing changes in networks and drug coverage

– Public safety workers and retirees should also assess Medicare alongside employer coverage

– Prescription drug costs and caps change year to year, making review essential

– Special enrollment periods may apply after life changes such as retirement or relocation

– Avoid robocalls and 800 numbers and seek referrals and trusted advisors instead

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at https://jennastoliker.com/

Chapters

00:51Introduction

02:37 What is Medicare Open Enrollment

04:03 Open Enrollment vs Initial Enrollment

05:08 Decisions to Make

06:08 Considering a New Plan

08:57 Medicare for Public Employees and First Responders

12:14 Reviewing Drug Coverage

14:53 Life Changes

16:59 Trustworthy Resources

Helpful Links:

Amy Terrell, Medicare Agent /MyMedicareNetwork.com: https://mymedicarenetwork.com/

Jenna Stoliker: https://jennastoliker.com/

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

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Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a registered

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investment Advisory Services are offered through Retirement Plan Advisors, LLC, a Federally Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge Investment Research and Retirement Planning Advisors are not related to DavisCompoundingChange.com or this podcast.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future...

Career changes often feel like standing at a crossroads with both fear and excitement tugging at you. Whether a shift is forced by layoffs or chosen by a quiet inner nudge, the mix of uncertainty and possibility can shake you to your core while opening doors you didn’t even know were there. It’s rarely a clean break. Instead, it’s a journey through messy middles, self-doubt, resilience, and small steps that build into something new.

In this episode of Compounding Change, sisters Shannon Davis and Jenna Stoliker share a candid conversation about navigating career pivots. Shannon reflects on her own reinventions, from gym owner to financial advisor, and the challenges of being seen in new roles. Jenna brings perspective from her path in leadership development, including the leap from a steady paycheck to starting her own coaching business. Together, they uncover how values, courage, and clarity play central roles in making meaningful shifts.

At the end of the day, it’s not about having it all figured out. It’s about doing something, however small, to move forward. Because compounding change begins with the first small step.

Key Takeaways:

-Career change often comes with both fear and excitement, both natural

-Reinvention is less about starting from scratch and more about building on experience

-Permission to close a chapter can be freeing, not failing

-Writing down what you don’t want helps clarify what you do want

-Self-doubt and imposter syndrome are common but can be reframed as resilience

-Anchoring to core values provides direction in uncertain times

-Talking things out loud often brings clarity and perspective

-Financial clarity is as important as emotional courage when making a leap

-Change doesn’t require perfection, just small intentional steps

-You don’t need to have it all figured out—you just need to do something

Chapters

00:57 Opening Thoughts

02:43The Firefighter Factor

05:41 Closing Chapters

09:02 A Calling, Not Just a Career

11:30 The Messy Middle

13:55 Imposter Syndrome & Identity Shifts

18:05 Values as Compass

19:49 Practical Steps Forward

23:22 Looking Ahead

Helpful Links:

Small Business Administration Website: https://www.usa.gov/agencies/small-business-administration

Jenna Stoliker: https://jennastoliker.com/

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

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Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a registered

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investment Advisory Services are offered through Retirement Plan Advisors, LLC, a Federally Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge Investment Research and Retirement Planning Advisors are not related to DavisCompoundingChange.com or this podcast.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at

Sometimes the spark that first ignited our passion dims over time. The pressures of daily life, travel, and even the demands of doing what we love can leave us feeling drained. Yet, true growth often comes when we revisit our “why,” when we find mentors who challenge us, and when we lean into hard conversations that shape not just our careers, but our character.

In this episode of Compounding Change, Shannon Davis welcomes Joe DeGain, longtime CrossFit Flowmaster, coach of coaches, and life coach at joedegain.com. Joe shares his journey from a high school teacher discovering CrossFit in a weight room, to coaching thousands of athletes and trainers around the world, and now guiding people in leadership and personal development.

Their conversation explores what separates great coaches from good ones, the six criteria CrossFit uses to measure coaching effectiveness, and how leadership lessons extend far beyond the gym. Joe also opens up about the daily routines, relationships, and mindset strategies that keep him grounded, motivated, and able to serve others, even when burnout or complacency loom.

In this episode, you’ll hear why Joe believes legacy isn’t about names or titles, but about the lessons that ripple outward, passed down from coach to athlete, mentor to student, and parent to child. His challenge is simple: stay curious, keep it simple, and never lose sight of the real mission—health, wellness, and being of service to others.

Key Takeaways:

– Passion often starts with curiosity, but lasting impact comes from staying grounded in your “why.”

– Great coaches excel not just in teaching movement but in presence, attitude, and group management.

– Simplicity in communication often makes coaching more effective than technical jargon.

– The best leaders adapt their approach to meet each individual’s unique needs.

– Consistency in habits, such as a morning routine, can fuel resilience and clarity.

– Surrounding yourself with the right people prevents complacency and drives growth.

– Burnout often signals distraction—refocusing on health and wellness helps restore purpose.

– Hard conversations, though uncomfortable, are the seeds of lasting change.

– Legacy is less about recognition and more about the ripple effect of lessons passed on.

– Staying curious keeps both coaches and leaders fresh, effective, and inspired.

Chapters

00:57 Introduction

02:25 A Crossfit Career

08:19 Advice for Coaches

12:48 Great Coaches

15:14 Mindset

17:07 Mistakes Coaches Make

23:45 Impact of Coaching

28:34 Staying Sharp

44:16 Compounding Change in CrossFit

48:57 Leaving a Legacy

50:20 Final Thoughts

Helpful Links:

Joe DeGain, CrossFit LLC: https://games.crossfit.com/athlete/46032

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

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Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a registered

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investment Advisory Services are offered through Retirement Plan Advisors, LLC, a Federally Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge Investment Research and Retirement Planning Advisors are not related to DavisCompoundingChange.com or this podcast.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future...