Are you a small business owner wondering how to plan for retirement or what your business is really worth? Have you thought about your exit strategy—or what happens if something unexpected takes you out of the game? Whether you're just starting to think about retirement planning or already navigating the complexities of being a business owner, this episode is for you.

In this episode, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric dive into the three key types of clients they serve at Metcalf Partners. While they support emerging affluent individuals and those nearing retirement, today’s conversation focuses on the business owner. From selecting the right retirement plan and managing risk with insurance to preparing your business for sale and planning for succession, this episode offers crucial insights to help business owners take control of their financial future.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:46) Metcalf Partners has three key client groups. Today, we focus on the business owner
• (03:12) Ethan discusses three main employer retirement planning strategies
• (11:59) Eric discusses risk management through insurance
• (16:46) Discussion of multiple business owners
• (20:04) Making an exit strategy from your business and continuity
• (22:26) Pricing your business for sale

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Metcalf Partners serves three primary client groups: emerging affluent individuals, those at or near retirement, and small business owners, with a particular focus on small business owners in this episode. They offer tailored financial strategies for each group, including retirement planning, insurance solutions, and business exit strategies.
• Solo 401(k) plans are ideal for small business owners, particularly those who are husband-and-wife teams. They offer high contribution limits, Roth options, low costs, and minimal admin until assets exceed $250,000.
• Many business owners fail to plan for succession or exit, leaving them vulnerable if the unexpected occurs. Whether through internal succession, a broker, or private equity, the process is complex and takes time. Planning early is crucial to a smooth and financially sound transition.

RESOURCES:

Metcalf Partners - Website

Jeb Graham - LinkedIn

Ethan Hutchison - LinkedIn

Eric Wymore - LinkedIn

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Jeb is the CEO and Managing Partner at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. Before founding Metcalf Partners, he was a financial advisor in Overland Park, Kansas. Active in the Kansas City community, Jeb serves on the Kansas City Chapter Board of the Entrepreneur Organization (EO). He holds a finance degree from Kansas State University and a CFP® designation, and he received additional executive education in retirement planning from Wharton.

Ethan Hutcheson:

Ethan is a Partner and Financial Planner at Metcalf Partners. He is passionate about helping people prepare, plan, and execute their goals. With a career in Financial Services, his...

Are you making the most of your retirement planning strategy—or leaving money and tax benefits on the table? In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric discuss with Casey McCarthy, Executive Vice President at EIP Corp., how third-party administrators (TPAs) help design and manage 401(k) plans tailored to business goals, such as maximizing savings and attracting top talent. You’ll learn the differences between IRA options, SEP, SIMPLE, and 401(k) plans, how cash balance plans work, and how to take full advantage of tax benefits and new IRS incentives that could make retirement plans more affordable than ever. Whether you're a business owner or building your retirement nest egg, this episode will help you make smarter retirement planning decisions.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (01:48) Casey explains the role of a third-party administrator when retirement planning
• (05:42) The differences between IRAs and specific contribution amounts
• (09:42) How does a cash balance plan work with a 401 (k)
• (13:51) Tax benefits and credits. IRS is making plans that are inexpensive or free for three to five years
• (18:22) Contributing to a Roth IRA and discussion of the maximum contributions

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Casey McCarthy shared how TPAs like EIP Corporation design and manage 401(k) plans to stay compliant and support business goals. While advisors like Metcalf Partners handle education and investments, TPAs tailor retirement planning strategies to help business owners maximize savings, attract top talent, and fully leverage tax benefits and IRA options.
• Compared to SEP and SIMPLE IRAs, 401(k) plans offer higher contribution limits and greater flexibility, making them a stronger option for retirement planning in growing businesses.
• The conversation highlighted how advisors and TPAs work together—advisors handle education and investments, while TPAs manage plan design and compliance—to create strategic, tax-beneficial retirement plans.

RESOURCES:

Metcalf Partners - Website

Jeb Graham - LinkedIn

Ethan Hutchison - LinkedIn

Eric Wymore - LinkedIn

EIP Corporation - Website

Casey McCarthy - LinkedIn

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: Casey McCarthy

I am the Executive Vice President and Director of Business Development at EIP Corp., a Third-Party Administrator (TPA) in the Kansas City area, with a focus on corporate retirement plan design and administration. With over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, including extensive expertise in defined contribution and defined benefit plans, my goal is to ensure that our clients receive the most accurate plan administration and the highest quality service in the industry.

EIP CORP

Founded in 1973, EIP began with the mission that still guides the company today: to combine unequaled...

Are you letting fear drive your investment decisions? Or are you prepared to navigate market volatility with confidence and clarity? In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric discuss the emotional rollercoaster of the stock market, from historical bear markets to innovative diversification investment strategies. You'll hear insights from timeless charts like the First Trust Bull and Bear Markets chart, the J.P. Morgan Guide to the Markets, and the colorful Quilt Chart that illustrates why no single asset class wins annually. Whether you're worried about downturns or looking to turn volatility into opportunity, this conversation will help you stay grounded, informed, and focused on your long-term financial goals.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening and introduction
• (00:53) Discussing stock market volatility and investment strategies
• (03:17) Ethan refers to a First Trust Chart from 1942, which charts the Bull and Bear Markets
• (07:14) Eric refers to the Quilt Chart and discusses asset allocation
• (11:32) Jeb discusses the Crisis and Events Chart and the J.P. Morgan Guides to Markets Chart

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Market volatility is normal and recurring. Market downturns—5 %, 10%, or even 20% declines—are typical. Ethan noted that a 5% drop happens about three times a year, while a 20% decline occurs roughly every five and a half years. Despite their frequency, these downturns are typically followed by recoveries, often leading to new market highs. Consider this information when making investment strategies.
• Bear markets are opportunities, not just risks. Rather than fearing market declines, the hosts suggest viewing them as opportunities to invest at a discount. Jeb and Ethan both stressed the importance of staying invested during downturns to avoid missing out on the early stages of recovery, which often carry significant gains.
• Diversification and asset allocation help smooth the ride. Since no single asset class consistently outperforms, spreading investments across stocks, bonds, and other assets helps manage risk and capture returns over time.

RESOURCES:

Metcalf Partners - Website

Jeb Graham - LinkedIn

Ethan Hutchison - LinkedIn

Eric Wymore - LinkedIn

Ep. 8 - Long Term Wealth Building: How to Stay Resilient in Uncertain Times

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Jeb is the CEO and Managing Partner at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. Before founding Metcalf Partners, he was a financial advisor in Overland Park, Kansas. Active in the Kansas City community, Jeb serves on the Kansas City Chapter Board of the Entrepreneur Organization (EO). He holds a finance degree from Kansas State University and a CFP® designation, and he received additional executive education in retirement planning from Wharton.

Ethan...

Are you feeling the pinch from rising insurance premiums, especially regarding home and automobile rates? In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric sit down with Allen Smith of Blue Valley Insurance to explain why insurance rates are climbing and what you can do about it. From the impact of frequent roof damage claims to the hefty premiums that come with insuring teen drivers, Allen shares insights you need to know. You’ll learn how insurance rates are determined, the difference between independent and captive agents, and practical steps you can take to help lower your insurance premiums. Whether you're a homeowner, a parent of a new driver, or simply looking to understand your policy better, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Introduction and opening
• (02:01) Allen provides a backstory of what has caused insurance rates to rise
• (07:17) Discussion of insurance claims for roof damage
• (13:47) Discussion of how insurance rates are determined
• (16:27) The difference between an independent agent and a captive agent, and a discussion of automobile rates for teen drivers
• (24:38) Discussion of what a consumer can do to lower the rising insurance premium amount

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Home and auto insurance premiums have skyrocketed in recent years, driven by inflation, increased claim frequency, and higher repair or rebuild costs due to supply chain issues and material/labor price hikes.
• Frequent roof replacement claims—often triggered by minimal hail damage—are straining insurance providers. Companies are tightening coverage rules and increasing deductibles to curb widespread losses.
• When adding a young driver to your insurance policy, expect a substantial rate increase—potentially $200 or more per month before assigning them a vehicle. However, don't despair. Be proactive and shop around,

RESOURCES:

Metcalf Partners - Website

Jeb Graham - LinkedIn

Ethan Hutchison - LinkedIn

Eric Wymore - LinkedIn

Blue Valley Insurance Agency - Website

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Al joined Blue Valley Insurance in 2008 as a Personal and Commercial Lines Agent, where he enjoys educating clients and building lasting relationships. In 2013, he earned his Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation, recognizing him as one of the industry’s most knowledgeable professionals. Since 2011, Al has consistently received the Five Star Professional Award—an honor given to fewer than 7% of KC-area insurance professionals based on outstanding customer satisfaction.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Jeb is the CEO and Managing Partner at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. Before founding Metcalf Partners, he was a financial advisor in Overland Park, Kansas. Active in the Kansas City community, Jeb serves on the Kansas City Chapter Board of the Entrepreneur...

Have you ever thought about the lasting impact of your words on your loved ones? On this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric sit down with Blake Brewer to explore the power of the Legacy Letter—a heartfelt parent-child letter filled with meaningful words that stand the test of time. Blake shares his deeply personal story of loss and how a letter from his late father changed his life, inspiring him to help others leave behind a legacy of love and wisdom. From the essential components of crafting a letter to the profound influence it can have on future generations, this conversation will leave you inspired to put pen to paper.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening and introduction
• (01:28) Blake reveals how the Legacy Letter came to be and the heartbreaking way his dad passed
• (08:57) Blake shares when he wrote his letter and decided to found Legacy Letter
• (11:28) The components of compiling meaningful words to leave as a legacy and the timing of giving the letter of reflection
• (17:53) It’s never too late to write the letter, and Blake discusses the partnership with Metcalf Partners
• (22:05) Blake shares an example of the results of a Parent-Child letter

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Blake Brewer’s life was profoundly impacted by a letter his father wrote to him before passing away unexpectedly. This letter provided love, guidance, and hope during his darkest moments, helping him grieve in a healthy way.
• Blake turned his tragedy into a mission to help others. He founded The Legacy Letter, intending to assist a million people in writing impactful letters to their children and loved ones, ensuring their voices and values live on.
• Writing a legacy letter is a powerful and emotional process that can profoundly impact both the writer and the recipient, even if its full significance isn't realized immediately.

RESOURCES:

Metcalf Partners - Website

Jeb Graham - LinkedIn

Ethan Hutchison - LinkedIn

Eric Wymore - LinkedIn

Legacy Letter - Website

Blake Brewer - LinkedIn

Legacy Letter Challenge - Instagram

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Blake Brewer is a visionary leader and the founder of Legacy Letter Challenge, an organization with a mission to help 1 million people write at least one Legacy Letter to their children. Blake's powerful story and mission have touched the hearts of many, and he continues to share it with organizations, businesses, and communities across the country. Most recently, he was featured on the "Dads Got This" segment on NBC's Today Show.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Jeb is the CEO and Managing Partner at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. Before founding Metcalf Partners, he was a financial advisor in Overland Park, Kansas. Active in the Kansas City community, Jeb serves on the Kansas City Chapter Board of Entrepreneur Organization (EO). He holds a finance degree from Kansas State University and a CFP® designation, and he received additional executive education in retirement planning from

Are you feeling uncertain about your investments in today’s turbulent market? You’re not alone. In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric break down the psychology of investing and how to navigate the ups and downs of the stock market with confidence. From understanding the emotional rollercoaster of fear and greed, to exploring strategies like diversification, downside protection, and opportunistic rebalancing, this conversation will equip you with the tools to stay level-headed and make smarter financial decisions. Tune in to learn how to harness the power of long-term thinking and make the psychology of investing work for you!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening and introduction
• (00:48) Discussion of the turbulent markets and the psychology of investing
• (02:41) The peak-to-trough cycle and the emotional rollercoaster of fear, greed, recency bias and confirmation bias
• (07:29) Discussion of diversification and market predictions
• (12:45) Defining downside protection and
• (16:18) Defining opportunistic rebalancing
• (19:29) Jeb summarizes what the psychology of investing is and how to make it work for you

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Market fluctuations are a natural part of investing, following a cycle of emotions from euphoria to fear. Understanding this cycle helps investors avoid impulsive decisions driven by short-term emotions.
• Spreading investments across different asset classes (stocks, bonds, international markets, etc.) helps mitigate risk, ensuring that a downturn in one area doesn’t disproportionately impact the entire portfolio.
• While short-term volatility is inevitable, history shows that markets tend to recover and grow over longer horizons. Maintaining a long-term outlook helps investors stay resilient through market corrections and downturns.

RESOURCES:

Metcalf Partners - Website

Jeb Graham - LinkedIn

Ethan Hutchison - LinkedIn

Eric Wymore - LinkedIn

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Jeb is the CEO and Managing Partner at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. Before founding Metcalf Partners, he was a financial advisor in Overland Park, Kansas. Active in the Kansas City community, Jeb serves on the Kansas City Chapter Board of the Entrepreneur Organization (EO). He holds a finance degree from Kansas State University and a CFP® designation, and he received additional executive education in retirement planning from Wharton.

Ethan Hutcheson:

Ethan is a Partner and Financial Planner at Metcalf Partners. He is passionate about helping people prepare, plan, and execute. With a career in Financial Services, his expertise spans Financial Planning, Tax, and Investment Management. Outside of work, Ethan enjoys hunting, cycling, and outdoor activities with his wife, Shanna, and their sons, Rhett and Levi.

Eric Wymore:

Eric is a Partner and Wealth Manager at Metcalf Partners Wealth...

How much money do you need to retire comfortably, and when is the best time to take Social Security? In this episode of the Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric dive into the key components of retirement planning. They discuss the early retirement dichotomy, how much money you need to retire comfortably, and the complexities of managing retirement accounts. The conversation also explores the crucial decision of when to take Social Security, navigating the often overlooked topic of health insurance in retirement, and concludes with the bottom lines for anyone planning for the future. Whether you're thinking about retiring early or just starting to plan, this episode offers valuable insights for every stage of retirement planning.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening and intro
• (00:49) Retirement planning
• (04:00) How much money do you need to retire
• (09:40) Discussion of retirement accounts
• (16:10) When do I take social security
• (21:33) What about a health savings account
• (25:25) The bottom line - a final word the steps to take to when planning for retirement

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• To retire early, individuals must address critical factors like how much money they need, when they can access retirement accounts, when to take Social Security, and how to handle health insurance costs before Medicare eligibility at 65.
• Individuals should start planning for Medicare around age 62 or 63, as Medicare uses a two-year income lookback period to determine costs. Proper planning can help manage income levels to optimize Medicare premiums.
• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are a valuable tool for covering healthcare expenses in retirement. They offer triple tax advantages, grow tax-free, and can be used for qualified medical expenses, making them a strategic financial asset.

RESOURCES:

Metcalf Partners - Website

Jeb Graham - LinkedIn

Ethan Hutchison - LinkedIn

Eric Wymore - LinkedIn

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jeb Graham:

Jeb is the CEO and Managing Partner at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. Before founding Metcalf Partners, he was a financial advisor in Overland Park, Kansas. Active in the Kansas City community, Jeb serves on the Kansas City Chapter Board of Entrepreneur Organization (EO). He holds a finance degree from Kansas State University and a CFP® designation, and he received additional executive education in retirement planning from Wharton.

Ethan Hutcheson:

Ethan is a Partner and Financial Planner at Metcalf Partners. He is passionate about helping people prepare, plan, and execute. With a career in Financial Services, his expertise spans Financial Planning, Tax, and Investment Management. Outside of work, Ethan enjoys hunting, cycling, and outdoor activities with his wife, Shanna, and their sons, Rhett and Levi.

Eric Wymore:

Eric is a Partner and Wealth Manager at Metcalf Partners Wealth Management. His career has been dedicated to wealth management. As an Accredited Investment Fiduciary, he prioritizes acting in clients’ best...

Navigating the complexities of health insurance when retiring can be overwhelming, but having the correct information makes all the difference. In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, host Jeb, Ethan, and Eric sit down with Matt Sturgeon, CEO of LNI Insurance Solutions, and Phil Walters, Director of Medicare at LNI Insurance Solutions, to break it all down. They discuss the key factors retirees need to consider, including determining insurance needs based on income and retirement age, what counts toward modified adjusted gross income, and how to ensure a smooth transition into retirement—especially for those under 65. The conversation also dives into the role of Medicare in health care decisions, the complexities of choosing the right plan, and why consulting an insurance specialist is essential since no two situations are alike. Whether you're retiring early or preparing to transition into Medicare, this episode provides valuable insights to help you make informed decisions about your health insurance coverage.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening
• (02:23) How does early retirement affect health insurance, and how do we determine insurance needs based on income and retirement age
• (07:05) What income counts towards modified adjusted gross income
• (08:16) Begin your health insurance decisions 6 months before retirement
• (13:07) No two situations of retirement planning are alike. Consult an insurance specialist
• (17:06) Making the switch to Medicare

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Every retiree’s situation is uniquely influenced by age, income, and location factors. Different rules apply to those retiring early (e.g., 55 or 60) compared to those transitioning into Medicare at 65.
• One of the biggest concerns for early retirees is securing affordable health insurance. Options include COBRA, ACA marketplace plans, short-term medical plans, and tax credits, which vary based on income and household makeup.
• Retirees should begin planning at least six months before retirement to ensure a smooth transition. Financial advisors target age 63 for Medicare planning since Medicare considers income from two years prior when determining costs.

RESOURCES:

Metcalf Partners - Website

Jeb Graham - LinkedIn

Ethan Hutchison - LinkedIn

Eric Wymore - LinkedIn

812 490 0200 - Phone

L & I Insurance - Website

L & I Insurance - Facebook

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Matt Sturgeon is a seasoned leader in the insurance industry with 14 years of experience. As the CEO and Co-Founder of L&I Insurance Solutions in Newburgh, IN, he is dedicated to helping individuals, families, and businesses "Protect Their Legacy with Integrity."

Beyond the insurance industry, Matt is also an award-winning high school Varsity boys' soccer coach. With 20 years of coaching experience, he is currently the head coach at...