How can everyday people help fund non-profits? As funding is shifts, many nonprofits including food banks, homeless shelters, mental health clinics, disaster relief organizations, and international aid groups are facing financial uncertainty.

In Part 1, I sat down with fundraising consultant Tessa Wardzinski, whose career has included working with the United Nations, UNAIDS, UNICEF, and Make-A-Wish. We discuss practical ways to build generosity into your financial life without feeling overwhelmed, why charitable giving is becoming more important than ever and how nonprofits really operate.

This episode will help you think differently about generosity and inspire you to build the kind of community and world that you want to live in.

Key takeaways:

• Charitable funding is changing: Many organizations like food banks, mental health clinics, and shelters have lost their major funding streams, making individual and grassroots generosity more important than ever.

• Every donation has value: Smaller organizations often rely on modest gifts, making even a $25 donation meaningful, while larger organizations benefit from recurring support and long-term donors.

• Give with purpose: The most successful fundraising efforts focus on storytelling, simplicity, and making donors feel connected. Discover how aligning your donations with your personal values can make giving more meaningful, sustainable, and fun.

Be sure to join us for Part 2, where we discuss how to make charitable giving fun at home, at work, and a part of your everyday life.

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• YouTube: youtube.com/@theunconventionalinvestor
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• Website: www.mefinancial.net

Disclaimer:

The information discussed in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, investments, or financial instruments. Private placements and alternative investments are speculative and involve significant risks, including the potential loss of your entire investment. These investments are often illiquid, meaning they may not be easily sold or converted to cash, and investors should be prepared to hold them for an extended period of time. These opportunities are typically suitable only for accredited investors and may not be appropriate for all listeners. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor, attorney, or tax professional before making any investment decisions. The hosts and guests of this podcast are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information presented.

Did you know you can choose where your Arizona state tax dollars go? Instead of paying the state, you can direct those funds to support foster kids, schools, or local charities, all through Arizona’s tax credit program. Every dollar you donate comes straight off what you owe the state.

For example, if you owe $1,400 in taxes and you donate $1,200 to a qualified charity, then you’ll only pay $200 to the state. And you can spread your giving across different categories and organizations.

It’s simple to do too. You check your eligibility, pick your charities, and make sure you keep your receipt for taxes.

Even if you don't live in Arizona, this episode may be worth a listen because many states offer charitable giving incentives. Check with your state's Department of Revenue, tax agency, CPA, or financial advisor to see what opportunities may be available where you live.

Key Takeaways:

• Dollar-for-Dollar Credit: This isn't a deduction—it's a full credit. You can earmark your tax dollars for approved organizations, reducing what you owe to the state by the exact amount you donate.

• Multiple Giving Categories: There are four main categories: public/charter schools, private schools, qualified charitable organizations, and foster care orgs. Each category has its own maximums.

• Cash Flow Timing: You do need cash on hand to make the donation, but the tax credit/refund comes back to you during tax season. With the right timing, you aren’t out the money for long.

Links and resources mentioned:

• Arizona Department of Revenue Tax Credit information and eligible organizations: https://azdor.gov/
• Arizona Tax Credit Funds directory: https://aztaxcreditfunds.com/

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• Subscribe to the podcast: pod.link/1671924778
• Please leave a comment or review
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  • YouTube: youtube.com/@theunconventionalinvestor
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  • Instagram: instagram.com/michelle.e.moses
  • Website: www.mefinancial.net

Disclaimer:

The information discussed in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, investments, or financial instruments. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor, attorney, or tax professional before making any investment decisions. The hosts and guests of this podcast are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information presented. Always consult your CPA or tax professional regarding your specific tax situation.

I sat down with Braden Hudson, CFO and cofounder of Trellis Energy, to talk about an oil and gas investment opportunity. Trellis isn’t your typical operator—they specialize in fractional ownership of wells alongside major names like Chevron and EOG, giving accredited investors direct access to proven energy projects.

With a focus on downside risk, diversified deals, and strong tax benefits, their fund offers an alternative growth platform outside traditional markets. If you’re looking to diversify your portfolio and tap into energy investments in a smarter way, this episode is a must-listen!

Key takeaways:

• Diversification Through Non-Operated Interests: Trellis Energy provides fractional ownership in oil and gas wells across top-tier U.S. operators, which spreads risk across different projects, regions, and commodities. This isn’t about chasing 10x returns—it's about steady capital appreciation with a strong downside risk focus.
• Distinct Growth Platform Model: Trellis doesn’t operate the wells themselves—instead, they invest alongside proven, reputable operators (think Chevron, EOG, Oxy) in projects too small for major institutional players, but out of reach for most individuals. This model enables earlier cash flow recycling and tailored exit timing, seeking 15–20 projects per fund lifecycle.
• Investor Alignment & Tax Efficiency: With an 8% preferred return and significant personal capital invested, Trellis aligns its interests with investors. Plus, 70–85% of capital may be deductible in year one, depending on structure—adding another layer of efficiency for portfolio strategy.

Curious how private energy investing could fit your portfolio—either for tax planning, diversification, or long-term growth? Check out the full episode or let’s connect!

#AlternativeInvestments #OilAndGas #PrivateEquity #PortfolioDiversification

Contact Brayden Hudson with Trellis Energy Partners - https://trellisep.com/

Take the quiz - How Alternative Assets Can Fit in Your Portfolio - https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/672ec387dca489a684704eee

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• Subscribe to the Podcast: pod.link/1671924778
• Don't forget to leave a review!
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  • YouTube: youtube.com/@theunconventionalinvestor
• Instagram: instagram.com/michelle.e.moses
• Website: www.mefinancial.net

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional financial advice. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor or professional before making any financial decisions. The hosts and guests of this podcast are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information presented.

Downsizing or transitioning to a new living situation can be especially overwhelming for seniors and their families. In my recent episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Zach Gariti, founder of Reavanti, a company specializing in senior move management.

Here are 3 key takeaways:

• A Personalized, Stress-free Approach: Reavanti manages every aspect of a senior’s transition—from sorting and packing, to donating and selling unwanted items, all the way to recreating familiar home environments in new spaces. Clients remain at the center of the process, but without the heavy lifting (literally and figuratively!).
• Flexible, Compassionate Support: The timeline is tailored to each client’s needs. Whether it takes days or more than a year, they can adjust to clients’ schedules, family situations, and emotional readiness.
• Specialized Care for Memory Challenges: For clients moving into memory care, Reavanti emphasizes recreating familiar surroundings (even arranging photos and setting up favorite TV shows!) to ease transitions and maintain comfort, dignity, and a sense of control.

If you’re helping a loved one—or know someone who is—navigate a major move, check out Reavanti or connect with a senior move manager in your area.

Contact Zach with Reavanti - https://reavanti.com/

Take the quiz - How Alternative Assets Can Fit in Your Portfolio

Ready for the next step?

• Subscribe to the Podcast: pod.link/1671924778
• Don't forget to leave a review!
• Follow Michelle for more financial tips:
  • YouTube: youtube.com/@theunconventionalinvestor
• Instagram: michelle.e.moses
• Website: www.mefinancial.net

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional financial advice. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor or professional before making any financial decisions. The hosts and guests of this podcast are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information presented.

🔒 Financial fraud is on the rise — how can you protect yourself?

There's been a sharp uptick (25% increase!) in financial fraud this year. In this episode, I go over some strategies to recognize and protect yourself from scams.

Key takeaways:

• Watch for red flags: Be wary of unsolicited calls (even when they appear to come from legitimate institutions) that create urgency, ask for sensitive info, or pressure you to act quickly. Always hang up and call back using a verified number you found on their website.
• Strengthen your digital defenses: Enable two-factor authentication, set up transaction alerts on your accounts, and use strong, unique passwords—especially for financial logins.
  • Michelle also suggests having a separate email just for financial matters.
• Stay vigilant—and help others do the same: Many scams target older adults or those less familiar with digital security. Talk openly with family and friends about common tactics fraudsters use, and encourage them to lock down their accounts.

Taking proactive steps now can make all the difference in protecting your money and accounts.

🛡️ If you haven’t reviewed your account security lately, now’s the time!

#FinancialSecurity #FraudPrevention #WealthManagement #Cybersecurity #UnconventionalInvestor

Ready for the next step?

• Subscribe to the Podcast: pod.link/1671924778
• Don't forget to leave a review!
• Follow Michelle for more financial tips:
  • YouTube: youtube.com/@theunconventionalinvestor
• Instagram: michelle.e.moses
• Website: www.mefinancial.net

Take the quiz - How Alternative Assets Can Fit in Your Portfolio

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional financial advice. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor or professional before making any financial decisions. The hosts and guests of this podcast are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information presented.

In this solo episode, Michelle gets into the nuts and bolts of investing in alternative assets. If you’ve ever wondered how difficult the logistics are to invest outside your traditional brokerage, this episode is for you. Michelle breaks down the logistics of alternative investing—from setting up self-directed IRAs to filling out subscription agreements—so you can feel confident taking the next step toward portfolio diversification.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The Basics of Alternative Investing: Why more investors are looking beyond stocks and bonds.
• Self-Directed IRAs Explained: How they work, when to use them, and why they might save you money on fees.
• Subscription Agreements: What they are and how to complete them.
• Investment Timelines: How long it takes to move from decision-making to execution.
• Cash vs. IRA Investments: Key differences in process and paperwork.

Take the quiz - How Alternative Assets Can Fit in Your Portfolio

Related Episode - How to Use Self-Directed Accounts to Invest with CNB Custody

Ready for the next step?

• Subscribe to the Podcast: pod.link/1671924778
• Don't forget to leave a review!
• Follow Michelle for more financial tips:
  • YouTube: youtube.com/@theunconventionalinvestor
• Instagram: michelle.e.moses
• Website: www.mefinancial.net

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional financial advice. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor or professional before making any financial decisions. The hosts and guests of this podcast are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information presented.

If you're interested in learning more about the potential of Manufactured Housing Communities (mobile home parks), listen to this episode!

Hansel Rodriguez, Principal of COARE Communities, joins us as we get into the world of Manufactured Housing Communities (mobile home parks). Hansel shares his expertise on diversified investment strategies, the significant returns and tax benefits associated with mobile home park investments, and the critical role these communities play in providing affordable housing solutions.

Key Takeaways:

• Affordable Housing Focus:
  • COARE is dedicated to solving the affordable housing crisis by investing in and preserving Manufactured Housing Communities, the most affordable housing option available.
  • Mobile home parks provide a crucial housing solution, offering significant cost savings compared to traditional apartments and single-family homes.
• Diversified Investment Strategies:
  • COARE Companies employs a diversified approach, investing in mobile home parks across the nation, so you aren't heavily invested in one area.
  • This investment opens up unique opportunities beyond conventional markets.
• Attractive Returns & Tax Benefits:
  • Investing in mobile home parks offers the potential for high returns, making it an appealing option for accredited investors.
  • These investments also provide substantial tax benefits that may be right for your portfolio.

Guest:

• Hansel Rodriguez, Principal, COARE and CEO, Coare Companies

Links:

• COARE Website - https://www.coarecommunities.com/
• Contact Michelle to discuss investing in COARE - www.mefinancial.net

Take the quiz - How Alternative Assets Can Fit in Your Portfolio

Ready for the next step?

• Subscribe to the Podcast: pod.link/1671924778
• Don't forget to leave a review!
• Follow Michelle for more financial tips:
  • YouTube: youtube.com/@theunconventionalinvestor
• Instagram: michelle.e.moses
• Website: www.mefinancial.net

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional financial advice. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor or professional before making any financial decisions. The hosts and guests of this podcast are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information presented.

Ever dreamed of traveling the world for less? This week, I chat with Julian Kheel, founder of Points Path and travel expert, about how to unlock the power of airline miles and credit card points. Julian explains the often-confusing world of travel rewards, sharing his 15+ years of experience and turning the complex system into an exciting game.

Learn how to leverage credit card perks, maximize sign-up bonuses, and strategically use flexible cards to earn and redeem rewards for travel deals. Julian also highlights his game-changing Points Path browser extension, designed to make deciding between cash and points a breeze.

Key Takeaways:

• Travel Rewards: Julian breaks down the complexities of airline miles and credit card points, making them accessible and understandable for everyone.
• Maximizing Credit Card Points: Learn the secrets to earning the most points possible through strategic spending and bonus categories.
• The Power of Sign-Up Bonuses: Discover how to leverage lucrative sign-up bonuses to quickly accumulate a wealth of points.
• Strategic Use of Flexible Cards: Understand the benefits of flexible rewards programs and how to use them to your advantage.
• Cash vs. Points: Julian introduces the Points Path browser extension, a powerful tool that simplifies the decision-making process when choosing between paying with cash or points.
• Travel the World for Less: This episode has tips and strategies to help you travel more and spend less.
• Take Control of Your Financial Future: Learn how travel rewards can be a powerful tool in your overall financial strategy.

Links:

Contact Julian or download the Points Path Browser Extension - https://pointspath.com/

Take the quiz - How Alternative Assets Can Fit in Your Portfolio

Ready for the next step?

• Subscribe to the Podcast: pod.link/1671924778
• Don't forget to leave a review!
• Follow Michelle for more financial tips:
  
  • YouTube: youtube.com/@theunconventionalinvestor
• • Instagram: michelle.e.moses
• • Website: www.mefinancial.net

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional financial advice. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor or professional before making any financial decisions. The hosts and guests of this podcast are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information presented.