• IS YOUR RETIREMENT PLAN REACTING...OR BUILDING?
    Feb 9 2026

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    Retirement rules are changing, and what you don't know can derail your financial future. In this episode, Marie-Jo Caesar explores how legislative shifts like the Secure 2.0 Act and updated IRS guidance are reshaping retirement planning—from 401(k) access to alternative investments.

    But retirement planning isn't just about regulations. Marie-Jo addresses the real-life pressures that influence your choices: housing affordability, family responsibilities, and the emotional pull to act quickly when uncertainty rises. You'll learn why clarity and coherence matter more than speed, and how to build a resilient strategy that withstands shifting rules and life's unpredictability.

    Retirement planning is deeply personal. This episode helps you align your financial choices with the future you want to protect. Plan with purpose, not panic.

    Support the show

    Connect with me:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinanciologist/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/merginglifeandmoney
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@merginglifeandmoney
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjcaesar

    Click this link https://mariejocaesar.com/fmtq/take-the-quiz to take the "Discover Your Financial Mindset Type” Quiz, so you can start taking control of your financial destiny and transform your financial identity.

    Click this link: https://mariejocaesar.com/consult to book a FREE consultation now! Let's map out your path to financial wellness together. Your future self will thank you.

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    50 mins
  • Ep. 201 - RETIREMENT BIGGEST LIE - WHY THE 4 percent RULE COULD BE FAILING YOU!
    Aug 9 2025

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    Unlocking Retirement Security with Steve Selengut: Income Independence Strategies

    In this episode of the Merging Life and Money Show, host Marie-Jo Caesar welcomes special guest Steve Selengut, a bestselling author and investment advisor with over 40 years of experience. Steve shares his unique approach to retirement planning, focusing on generating reliable income without selling investments—a strategy effective in both rising and falling markets. The discussion covers essential topics such as the concept of income independence, risk minimizers, portfolio management, and the critical importance of diversification. Steve also compares portfolio management to running a department store, emphasizing the need for quality, diversification, and profit-taking. This episode provides valuable insights for anyone aiming to achieve financial security and peace of mind in retirement.

    3 Main Points

    Income Independence Focus:

    Steve Selengut highlights the importance of generating a steady income stream for retirement, ensuring financial security despite market changes, rather than solely accumulating wealth

    Four Financial Risk Minimizers:

    Steve identifies four key strategies to reduce financial risk—quality, diversification, income, and profit-taking—essential for protecting investments and maintaining stability, especially for retirees.

    The Department Store Analogy:

    Steve likens portfolio management to a department store, emphasizing the importance of diversification and inventory management to spread risk and consistently secure profits.


    🕒 KEY MOMENTS IN THIS EPISODE

    00:00 – Special Guest Introduction

    01:59 - Income Independence vs Wealth Accumulation

    07:58 - The 4 Great Financial Risk Minimizers

    17:40 - Implementing Risk Minimizers for Average Investors

    20:54 - Risk Minimizers Across Different Life Stages

    23:31 - Adjusting Financial Thinking in Today's Economy

    25:21 - The Department Store Analogy

    27:30 - Inventory Management Strategies

    30:50 - Restocking Techniques

    32:40 - Importance of Diversification

    35:00 - Tenant Selection Best Practices

    41:54 - Achieving Income Independence

    47:10 - Understanding the 4% Rule

    52:30 - Steps to Achieve Income Independence

    Support the show

    Connect with me:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinanciologist/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/merginglifeandmoney
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@merginglifeandmoney
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjcaesar

    Click this link https://mariejocaesar.com/fmtq/take-the-quiz to take the "Discover Your Financial Mindset Type” Quiz, so you can start taking control of your financial destiny and transform your financial identity.

    Click this link: https://mariejocaesar.com/consult to book a FREE consultation now! Let's map out your path to financial wellness together. Your future self will thank you.

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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Ep. 197 - HOW TO TAKE BACK CONTROL FROM BANKS
    Jul 29 2025

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    Unlocking Wealth: The Infinite Banking Concept Explained | Merging Life and Money Show

    Join host Marie Jo Caesar as she welcomes the Dew brothers, Jonah and Jeremiah, to the Merging Life and Money Show. Known for their expertise in the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC). They break down complex financial strategies into easily digestible steps.

    Discover how high cash value whole life insurance can serve as a private banking system to build generational wealth. Learn about financial management, the importance of stewardship, and actionable insights to transform your financial future.

    3 Main Points

    Wealth Building and Stewardship

    Financial Management and Cash Flow

    Infinite Banking Concept (IBC)


    🕒 KEY MOMENTS IN THIS EPISODE

    00:00 Welcome and Guest Introduction

    02:55 Core Values: Stewardship and Wealth Building

    05:48 Key Decisions for Financial Growth

    09:18 Complementary Skills in Wealth Building

    13:01 Misconceptions About Generational Wealth

    17:40 Debt Reduction Journey

    21:41 Common Financial Management Mistakes

    27:04 Impact of Fatherhood on Financial Planning

    33:05 Success Stories and Financial Education

    38:25 Introduction to the Save and Spend System

    38:36 Understanding Infinite Banking

    39:32 The Three Cup Setup Explained

    41:13 Financial Literacy vs. Financial Education

    42:54 Discovering the Infinite Banking Concept

    46:08 Simplifying Infinite Banking for Others

    50:00 How High Cash Value Whole Life Insurance Works

    01:00:28 Underwriting and Long-Term Commitment

    01:06:50 Common Objections and Misconceptions

    01:10:36 Future of Infinite Banking

    01:13:08 Final Thoughts and How to Connect

    Support the show

    Connect with me:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinanciologist/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/merginglifeandmoney
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@merginglifeandmoney
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjcaesar

    Click this link https://mariejocaesar.com/fmtq/take-the-quiz to take the "Discover Your Financial Mindset Type” Quiz, so you can start taking control of your financial destiny and transform your financial identity.

    Click this link: https://mariejocaesar.com/consult to book a FREE consultation now! Let's map out your path to financial wellness together. Your future self will thank you.

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    1 hr and 19 mins
  • The SHIFT SHOW WITH M&M Ep. 2 - LAID OFF? - 3 STEPS TO REGAIN CONTROL OF YOUR FINANCES
    Jul 28 2025

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    Laid off and feeling unsure about what to do next? Don't worry, this is your step-by-step guide to regain control of your finances and move forward with confidence!

    In this empowering episode of *The Shift Show with M&M*, financial wellness strategist Mary Jo Caesar shares expert advice on how to manage your money after a layoff and transform this challenge into an opportunity for growth. Whether you’re navigating the aftermath of the 2025 federal terminations or any unexpected job loss, this episode is your ultimate financial first aid kit. Here's what you'll learn:

    - Stabilize Before Strategizing: Learn the first steps to take within 72 hours of a layoff, including gathering crucial documents like your separation letter and benefits information.

    - Cash Flow CPR: Discover how to create a survival budget that focuses on essentials while avoiding a scarcity mindset. Mary Jo explains her 30/60/90-day framework to stretch your finances strategically.

    - Prepare for What’s Next: Shift from survival mode to rebuilding mode with actionable steps to future-proof your finances, diversify income streams, and set intentional financial goals.

    This conversation blends practical money management strategies with mindset coaching to help you tackle life’s curveballs. Y

    ou’ll gain insights into:

    - Emotional resilience and how to process the news of a layoff.

    - The importance of mapping out available resources (employer benefits, government programs, and more).

    - Tools and apps to track cash flow and stay organized during financial transitions.

    Take Control of Your Financial Future

    Your financial situation doesn’t define your worth! With the right tools and mindset, you can rebuild stronger than ever. Marie-Jo’s expert tips on financial literacy and empowerment will help you navigate this season with clarity and purpose.

    Pro Tip: Financial resilience is about more than just numbers—it’s about cultivating a growth mindset and seeing this as an opportunity to realign with your values and goals.

    Your title may change, but your value doesn’t. Keep moving forward—you’ve got this!

    Support the show

    Connect with me:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinanciologist/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/merginglifeandmoney
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@merginglifeandmoney
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjcaesar

    Click this link https://mariejocaesar.com/fmtq/take-the-quiz to take the "Discover Your Financial Mindset Type” Quiz, so you can start taking control of your financial destiny and transform your financial identity.

    Click this link: https://mariejocaesar.com/consult to book a FREE consultation now! Let's map out your path to financial wellness together. Your future self will thank you.

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    41 mins
  • The SHIFT SHOW Ep.1 – RISING AFTER LAYOFFS: MEGHAN STOCKMAN'S JOURNEY OF REINVENTION
    Jul 3 2025

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    Welcome to the SHIFT SHOW with M&M, a special series within the Merging Life and Money podcast where we explore powerful shifts in mindset, career, and money for holistic wellness.

    In this first episode, I sit down with Meghan Stockman, retired Air Force Major, former Space Weather Forecaster for NOAA, transformational coach, and CEO of KidSpace, Inc., a STEM-powered indoor playground for children in Denver.

    Meghan shares her journey of an unexpected layoff during her federal probationary period and how she turned this crisis of identity and stability into an opportunity for purposeful reinvention.

    We discuss:

    • The emotional and mental impact of sudden job loss and how to process it
    • The first practical and mindset steps to regain control after a layoff
    • How to plant the seeds for a new life chapter rooted in clarity, courage, and confidence

    Her story is a powerful reminder that reinvention is not about becoming someone new, but remembering who you truly are.

    If you have ever built your life around your job, title, or service only to have it pulled out from under you, this conversation will speak to your heart – and your future.

    Quote of the episode:
    “Sometimes when you're in a dark place, you think you’ve been buried—but you’ve actually been planted.” – Christine Caine

    🎧 Listen now to feel inspired, grounded, and ready to rise.

    💡 Call to Action
    If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs encouragement today.

    To learn more about holistic financial wellness and mindset shifts, visit www.mariejocaesar.com.

    Support the show

    Connect with me:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinanciologist/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/merginglifeandmoney
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@merginglifeandmoney
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjcaesar

    Click this link https://mariejocaesar.com/fmtq/take-the-quiz to take the "Discover Your Financial Mindset Type” Quiz, so you can start taking control of your financial destiny and transform your financial identity.

    Click this link: https://mariejocaesar.com/consult to book a FREE consultation now! Let's map out your path to financial wellness together. Your future self will thank you.

    Show More Show Less
    42 mins
  • EP. 196 - MONEY TALKS - BUT DOES IT SPEAK FOR WOMEN - LET'S MAKE SURE IT DOES!
    Apr 27 2025

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    Despite controlling $31.8 trillion in global wealth, women still earn less, save less, and invest less. In this episode, I break down why—and what we can do about it.

    Discover how AI-powered tools, financial literacy, and confidence-building strategies are helping women close the wealth gap, take control of their money, and build lasting financial independence.

    💡 What You'll Learn:
    • The real financial barriers women face
    • How AI simplifies budgeting, saving & investing
    • Tools to eliminate debt & negotiate your worth
    • Confidence strategies that actually work
    • The power of mentorship & money conversations

    01:18 Revolutionizing Finance with AI

    04:17 Financial Literacy for Empowerment

    12:02 Financial Discrimination and Wealth Barriers

    19:49 Building Women's Confidence

    22:14 AI's Role in Boosting Confidence

    29:20 Mentorship and Community Power

    36:33 AI in Investing: Overcoming Barriers

    46:10 Action Steps for Financial Focus


    Download The Savvy Woman's Investment Roadmap https://bit.ly/42SAxOF

    Support the show

    Connect with me:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinanciologist/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/merginglifeandmoney
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@merginglifeandmoney
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjcaesar

    Click this link https://mariejocaesar.com/fmtq/take-the-quiz to take the "Discover Your Financial Mindset Type” Quiz, so you can start taking control of your financial destiny and transform your financial identity.

    Click this link: https://mariejocaesar.com/consult to book a FREE consultation now! Let's map out your path to financial wellness together. Your future self will thank you.

    Show More Show Less
    50 mins
  • Ep. 195 - FROM LAYOFF TO LEGACY - THE ENTREPRENEUR'S PLAYBOOK
    Apr 20 2025

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    In this inspiring episode, host Marie-Jo Caesar addresses the unique entrepreneurial journey of Black business pioneers, exploring how their resilience, innovation, and commitment to community laid the groundwork for modern wealth-building. Against the backdrop of mass layoffs and economic uncertainty, Marie-Jo challenges listeners to think beyond traditional job security and consider entrepreneurship as a path to lasting impact and generational wealth.

    In this inspiring episode, host Marie-Jo Caesar talks about the unique entrepreneurial journey of Black business pioneers, exploring how their resilience, innovation, and commitment to community laid the groundwork for modern wealth-building. Against the backdrop of mass layoffs and economic uncertainty, Marie-Jo challenges listeners to think beyond traditional job security and consider entrepreneurship as a path to lasting impact and generational wealth.

    Key Points

    00:00 Empowerment Through Black Entrepreneurship

    03:05 Annie Malone: Pioneering Black Millionaire

    06:46 Repurposing Job Skills for Entrepreneurship

    12:36 Building Success Through Community Networks

    16:06 Modern Sustainable Business Ecosystems

    20:29 Strategic Planning for Diverse Revenue

    22:53 Building Resilient Business Foundations

    26:57 Enhancing Success Through Community & Finance

    28:03 Legacy and Innovation in Business

    32:45 Empowering Black Entrepreneurs with Tech

    36:59 Building Financial Resilience and Legacy

    40:53 Empowering Black Entrepreneurs Today

    41:59 Black Labor Unions' Impact


    Make sure to 📥 your FREE Business Transition Planning Guide → https://bit.ly/3Rnglz5

    Support the show

    Connect with me:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinanciologist/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/merginglifeandmoney
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@merginglifeandmoney
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjcaesar

    Click this link https://mariejocaesar.com/fmtq/take-the-quiz to take the "Discover Your Financial Mindset Type” Quiz, so you can start taking control of your financial destiny and transform your financial identity.

    Click this link: https://mariejocaesar.com/consult to book a FREE consultation now! Let's map out your path to financial wellness together. Your future self will thank you.

    Show More Show Less
    45 mins
  • Ep. 194 THE UNTOLD WEALTH STRATEGIES OF BLACK BUSINESS PIONEERS Unlocking Wealth: Timeless Lessons from Black History for Your Financial Future
    Apr 12 2025

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    Powerful Wealth Lessons from Black History: Merging Life and Money

    Join me as I talk about powerful wealth-building lessons from history, featuring the resilience and success of Black entrepreneurs like Madame C.J. Walker and the community-driven prosperity of Black Wall Street.

    Learn how to apply these timeless principles to your own financial journey, with practical strategies for resilience, persistence, and strategic adaptability.

    Discover a goal achievement framework to keep you on track for financial success in 2025.

    Don't miss this enriching episode as we celebrate Black History Month and look forward to a prosperous future.


    3 Main Points

    ✅ Tools for Financial Success Inspired by Black History

    ✅ Framework for Achieving Financial Goals

    ✅ Community-Driven Success and Networking

    🕒 KEY MOMENTS IN THIS EPISODE

    00:00 Introduction: Setting the Stage for Financial Success

    00:39 Honoring Black History Month: Wealth-Building Lessons

    01:35 Madame C.J. Walker: A Masterclass in Resilience

    02:20 Applying Historical Lessons to Modern Financial Goals

    05:59 The Psychology of Persistence: Overcoming Financial Obstacles

    10:30 Building Resilience in Today's Business Landscape

    13:13 The Power of Sustainable Systems for Long-Term Growth

    21:12 Black Wall Street: A Blueprint for Community-Driven Success

    31:07 Creating a Goal Achievement Framework for 2025

    38:14 Conclusion: Taking Action for a Financial Legacy

    Support the show

    Connect with me:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinanciologist/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/merginglifeandmoney
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@merginglifeandmoney
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjcaesar

    Click this link https://mariejocaesar.com/fmtq/take-the-quiz to take the "Discover Your Financial Mindset Type” Quiz, so you can start taking control of your financial destiny and transform your financial identity.

    Click this link: https://mariejocaesar.com/consult to book a FREE consultation now! Let's map out your path to financial wellness together. Your future self will thank you.

    Show More Show Less
    44 mins