Built For Life, Not Just Wealth

Hosted by Ryan Burklo & Alex Collins

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Episodes

370

Latest episode

Aug 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Built For Life, Not Just Wealth is a podcast for high-income professionals, business owners, and families who want more from money than just bigger numbers. Hosted by financial planners Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins of Quantified Financial Partners, it shows how to use money as a tool to build a life of freedom, purpose, and confidence. Episodes cut through traditional advice to deliver real-talk on cash flow, equity comp, taxes, investing, and big decisions—tied directly to what matters most: time, family, health, and meaning. Real financial planning isn't about perfect spreadsheets. It's about creating a life you're proud to live. Securities products and advisory services offered through Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS), member FINRA,SIPC. OSJ: 200 SW Market Street, Suite 1850 Portland, OR 97201 (503)221-1226 PAS is a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. Quantified Financial Partners is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. Quantified Financial Partners is not registered in any state or with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as a Registered Investment Advisor. This website is intended for general public use. By providing this content, Park Avenue Securities LLC and your financial representative are not undertaking to provide investment advice or make a recommendation for a specific individual or situation, or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Certain Podcasts are now historic and are for informational purposes only; the information provided was accurate at the time of recording but may no longer be current. Ryan and Alex are Registered Representatives & Investment Advisors of Park Avenue Securities, Financial Representative Guardians. Ryan's CA insurance license #OK24924, AR insurance license #15319412. Alex's CA insurance license #OH24806, AR insurance license #7264699. #8695383.1 Exp 1/28 Visit our website www.QuantifiedFinancial.com

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60 recent

August 24, 202610 min

Episode 367 - Don't Hire a Financial Advisor Until You Ask These 5 Questions

In this week's episode of Built For Life Not Just Wealth, Ryan Burklo discusses the essential questions to ask when interviewing a financial advisor, emphasizing the importance of understanding their philosophy, process, and team to ensure a good fit and successful financial planning. He also encourages listeners to look beyond credentials and focus on whether the advisor's approach aligns with their own goals, values, and communication style. That deeper alignment can make the relationship more effective and build more confidence over time. Check out our website: https://www.builtforlifenotjustwealth.com/ Find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlifenotjustwealth/ Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.quantifiedfinancial.com/subscribe-now Check out our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanburklofinance?igsh=ZTJzN3Jnajd5M2Mw Ryan Burklo's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanburklo/ Alex Collin's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandercollins/ For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/RyanBurklo #BuiltForLifeNotJustWealth #financialadvisor #interviewquestions #financialplanning #investmentstrategy #advisorfees #clientsuccess #planningprocess #teamstructure #successmeasurement Takeaways Ask about the advisor's planning philosophy to understand their approach. Understand how the advisor gets paid to identify potential conflicts of interest. Learn about the advisor's planning process to gauge their professionalism and client focus. Know who is on your advisory team and their expertise. Measure success based on your goals, not just market performance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Why Choosing the Right Financial Advisor Matters 01:24 Question 2: How Do You Get Paid? 02:22 Question 3: What Is Your Planning Process? 04:46 Question 4: Who Is My Advisor and Team? 06:10 Question 5: How Do You Measure Client Success? 07:07 Key Takeaways and Final Advice

August 17, 202611 min

Episode 366 - The Biggest Companies Always Change. Why Don't Investors?

In today's episode of Built For Life Not Just Wealth, Ryan Burklo discusses the unpredictability of markets and careers, emphasizing the importance of adaptable strategies over predictions. He highlights how historical shifts in top companies illustrate the futility of trying to predict winners and advocates for flexible, principle-based financial planning. By focusing on durable habits and a long-term framework, he shows how people can stay resilient even when the future looks uncertain. This approach helps reduce the pressure to "get it right" and instead encourages steady decision-making through change. Check out our website: https://www.builtforlifenotjustwealth.com/ Find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlifenotjustwealth/ Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.quantifiedfinancial.com/subscribe-now Check out our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanburklofinance?igsh=ZTJzN3Jnajd5M2Mw Ryan Burklo's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanburklo/ Alex Collin's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandercollins/ For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/RyanBurklo #BuiltForLifeNotJustWealth #investing #marketunpredictability #financialplanning #diversification #careerdevelopment #adaptability #markethistory #investmentstrategy Takeaways Humans confuse today with forever, leading to flawed predictions. Most investors should focus on owning the market rather than predicting winners. Flexibility and principles are more important than predictions in financial planning. Diversification helps manage the unpredictability of markets and careers. Building adaptable strategies is crucial for long-term success. Chapters 00:00 The Myth of Predicting Market Winners 02:13 The Human Problem: Believing Today's Winners Are Forever 04:15 Unexpected Trends in International and Small Cap Markets 06:42 Diversification and Human Biases in Investing 07:38 The Future of Markets and the Need for Evolving Strategies 08:26 Encouragement to Think Differently About Money and Investing

August 10, 202624 min

Episode 365 - Is An Inheritance Helping Your Kid... Or Hurting Them?

In today's episode of Built For Life Not Just Wealth, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the importance of estate planning, passing down values, and how to align your estate plan with your family's goals. They explore how to create meaningful legacies beyond just financial inheritance, emphasizing the role of intentional communication in shaping a family's future. The conversation also highlights why a well-designed estate plan should reflect not only what you want to leave behind, but also the values and purpose you hope will carry forward for generations. Check out our website: https://www.builtforlifenotjustwealth.com/ Find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlifenotjustwealth/ Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.quantifiedfinancial.com/subscribe-now Check out our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanburklofinance?igsh=ZTJzN3Jnajd5M2Mw Ryan Burklo's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanburklo/ Alex Collin's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandercollins/ For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/RyanBurklo #BuiltForLifeNotJustWealth #EstatePlanning #Inheritance #FamilyValues #Legacy #FinancialLiteracy #Trusts #Wills #WealthTransfer #FamilyConversations Takeaways The greatest inheritance is who your children become, not just what they receive. Estate planning is about what you want your money to accomplish, not just the amount. Having open family conversations about estate plans prevents conflicts and misunderstandings. Trusts can be used to set guardrails and protect assets from divorce or misuse. Teaching kids financial literacy and values is a crucial part of estate planning. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: The Purpose of Estate Planning 02:07 Why Parents Leave Inheritance: Protection and Security 04:14 What Do You Want Your Money to Accomplish? 07:08 The Role of Trusts and Wills in Estate Planning 09:55 Teaching Values and Financial Literacy to Kids 13:03 The Importance of Family Conversations 17:04 Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Family Conflicts 20:01 Final Questions: Are You Prepared? 21:01 Closing Remarks: Legacy Is Who They Become

August 3, 202611 min

Episode 364 - 5 Risks of Concentrated Stock

In this week's episode of Built For Life Not Just Wealth, Ryan Burklo discusses the five key risks of concentrated stock holdings and how high-income individuals can manage these risks to protect their financial future. Check out our website: https://www.builtforlifenotjustwealth.com/ Find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlifenotjustwealth/ Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.quantifiedfinancial.com/subscribe-now Check out our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanburklofinance?igsh=ZTJzN3Jnajd5M2Mw Ryan Burklo's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanburklo/ Alex Collin's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandercollins/ For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/RyanBurklo #BuiltForLifeNotJustWealth #concentratedstock #financialrisks #incomerisk #investmentrisk #taxrisk #emotionalrisk #lifestylerisk #financialplanning Takeaways Diversify your income sources beyond your company's stock. Understand the five risks of stock concentration: income, investment, tax, emotional, lifestyle. A balanced financial plan considers all five risks to ensure stability. Emotional attachment to stock can cloud judgment and lead to poor decisions. Assess your risk tolerance and ensure your balance sheet can withstand market downturns. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: The story of a client with $4 million in company stock 00:32 The importance of understanding how much of your financial future depends on one company 01:18 The five-legged table analogy for financial stability 02:17 Risk 1: Income risk - layoffs and company struggles 03:14 Risk 2: Investment risk - stock drops and timing concerns 04:37 Risk 3: Tax risk - managing taxes when diversifying 05:30 Risk 4: Emotional risk - psychological attachment to stock 06:59 Risk 5: Lifestyle risk - impact on retirement and lifestyle choices 07:59 Conclusion: Balancing risks and ensuring financial stability

July 27, 202614 min

Episode 363 - 5 Meetings Every Family Should Have Every Year

In today's episode of Built For Life Not Just Wealth, Ryan Burklo shares a framework of five essential family meetings that can help you align your financial and life goals, protect your family, and build a meaningful legacy. Drawing from real conversations with clients and his own family, he shows how these meetings foster honest communication, intentional planning, and stewardship—so your family can stay on the same page about vision, cash flow, protection, opportunities, and the values you want passed down for generations. Check out our website: https://www.builtforlifenotjustwealth.com/ Find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlifenotjustwealth/ Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.quantifiedfinancial.com/subscribe-now Check out our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanburklofinance?igsh=ZTJzN3Jnajd5M2Mw Ryan Burklo's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanburklo/ Alex Collin's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandercollins/ For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/RyanBurklo #BuiltForLifeNotJustWealth #familymeetings #financialplanning #legacy #protection #cashflow #vision #opportunity #stewardship #retirementplanning Takeaways Families should hold annual meetings to align on life and financial goals. A vision meeting helps clarify what each family member wants for the future. Understanding where money goes is crucial for effective financial planning. Protection meetings ensure the family is insured and estate plans are in place. Opportunity meetings help decide where to invest or spend resources. Legacy meetings focus on values, inheritance, and family stories. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Why Family Meetings Matter 01:30 The Vision Meeting: Defining Your Family's Future 02:26 Understanding Your Family's Dream Lifestyle 03:52 The Cash Flow Meeting: Tracking Income and Expenses 05:28 Protection Strategies: Insurance and Estate Planning 07:20 Opportunity Meeting: Making Smart Investment Choices 09:12 The Legacy Meeting: Passing Down Values and Assets 10:22 Recap and Encouragement to Implement These Meetings

July 20, 202622 min

Episode 362 - The Basics of Investing: From Philosophy to Practice

On today's episode of Built For Life Not Just Wealth, Alex Collins as he delves into the essentials of investing, covering key topics such as portfolio construction, investment philosophy, risk management, and diversification strategies. This episode is ideal for anyone eager to establish a robust investment foundation and gain confidence in navigating the financial markets. Check out our website: https://www.builtforlifenotjustwealth.com/ Find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlifenotjustwealth/ Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.quantifiedfinancial.com/subscribe-now Check out our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanburklofinance?igsh=ZTJzN3Jnajd5M2Mw Ryan Burklo's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanburklo/ Alex Collin's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandercollins/ For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/RyanBurklo Episode 286: https://www.builtforlifenotjustwealth.com/episode-286-the-5-principles-of-investing/ Episode 304: https://www.builtforlifenotjustwealth.com/episode-304-what-is-index-investing/ Episode 359: https://www.builtforlifenotjustwealth.com/retirement-isnt-about-assets-its-about-income/ Episode 282: https://www.builtforlifenotjustwealth.com/episode-282-understanding-recovery-rates-in-investing/ #BuiltForLifeNotJustWealth #investing #portfolioconstruction #diversification #riskmanagement #investmentphilosophy #ETFs #stocks #bonds #financialplanning Key Topics Investment philosophy and beliefs Portfolio construction and diversification Risk management and volatility Market efficiency and information absorption Asset classes: stocks, bonds, real estate, commodities Investment structures: ETFs, mutual funds, individual securities Time horizon and risk tolerance Aligning investments with personal values Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Investing Basics 01:26 Understanding Investment Philosophy 03:37 Market Efficiency and Investment Strategies 05:39 Portfolio Construction and Diversification 09:00 Risk, Return, and Time Horizon 14:00 Building a Personalized Portfolio 18:12 Conclusion and Resources

July 13, 202624 min

Episode 361 - How Much Life Insurance Do I Need?

Join Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins as they delve into the crucial role life insurance plays in a well-rounded financial plan. Through an engaging and detailed case study, they highlight the significance of cash flow management, protection strategies, and strategic planning. This episode is designed to empower listeners with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their financial future, ensuring they are well-prepared for any eventuality. Check out our website: https://www.builtforlifenotjustwealth.com/ Find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlifenotjustwealth/ Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.quantifiedfinancial.com/subscribe-now Check out our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanburklofinance?igsh=ZTJzN3Jnajd5M2Mw Ryan Burklo's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanburklo/ Alex Collin's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandercollins/ For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/RyanBurklo #BuiltForLifeNotJustWealth #financialplanning #lifeinsurance #cashflow #protection #casestudy #wealthmanagement #retirementplanning Key Topics Importance of life insurance in financial planning Analyzing a client's balance sheet and assets Impact of income and lifestyle on insurance needs Scenario analysis of life insurance coverage Protection from income loss due to unexpected events Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Financial Planning and Protection 02:28 Analyzing a Client's Balance Sheet 10:59 The Importance of Life Insurance 17:09 Understanding Income Protection and Financial Planning

July 6, 202614 min

Episode 360 - Investing By Evidence, Not Emotions

In this week's episode of Built For Life Not Just Wealth, Ryan Burklo delves into the intricacies of investing with a research-backed, academic approach. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on long-term factors, diversification, and thorough portfolio analysis. By exploring these key elements, Ryan provides insights into managing risks effectively and optimizing returns. His discussion offers valuable guidance for both novice and experienced investors looking to enhance their financial strategies. Check out our website: https://www.builtforlifenotjustwealth.com/ Find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlifenotjustwealth/ Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.quantifiedfinancial.com/subscribe-now Check out our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanburklofinance?igsh=ZTJzN3Jnajd5M2Mw Ryan Burklo's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanburklo/ Alex Collin's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandercollins/ For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/RyanBurklo #BuiltForLifeNotJustWealth #Investing #PortfolioManagement #Academi Research #Diversification #RiskManagement #NobelLaureates #MarketFactors #FinancialPlanning Key Topics Market efficiency and instant reflection of information Four main factors influencing returns: bonds, size, value, profitability Importance of diversification across global assets Risks of over-concentration in single asset classes Using academic research to guide investment decisions Chapters 00:00 Investing Philosophy: A New Approach 02:52 Understanding Market Dynamics and Factors 06:10 The Importance of Diversification 08:51 Analyzing Portfolio Risks and Asset Allocation

June 29, 202614 min

Episode 359 - Retirement Isn't About Assets. It's About Income

Ryan Burklo delves into the intricacies of retirement planning, emphasizing the importance of focusing on income streams rather than merely accumulating assets. He introduces an innovative Monte Carlo simulation designed to provide a more comprehensive assessment of retirement success. This tool helps individuals understand the probability of achieving their financial goals by simulating various market conditions. Additionally, Ryan shares practical strategies aimed at reducing the risk of failure and ensuring a stable income throughout retirement. These strategies are tailored to help individuals maintain financial security and peace of mind as they transition into their retirement years. Check out our website: https://www.builtforlifenotjustwealth.com/ Find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlifenotjustwealth/ Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.quantifiedfinancial.com/subscribe-now Check out our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanburklofinance?igsh=ZTJzN3Jnajd5M2Mw Ryan Burklo's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanburklo/ Alex Collin's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandercollins/ For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/RyanBurklo Liquidity episode mentioned by Ryan: https://www.builtforlifenotjustwealth.com/episode-342-true-liquidity-the-backstop-to-the-balance-sheet/ #BuiltForLifeNotJustWealth #retirementplanning #incomestreams #MonteCarlosimulation #financialstrategy #legacyplanning #riskmanagement #liquidity #annuities Key Topics Retirement is about income streams, not just assets Limitations of traditional portfolio-based planning Using Monte Carlo simulation to assess failure risk Diversifying assets with liquidity and guaranteed income Strategies to reduce failure rate and secure legacy Takeaways Retirement success depends more on income streams than asset size. Traditional models often overlook taxes, flexibility, and peace of mind. A diversified approach with liquidity and annuities can lower failure risk. Monte Carlo simulations can help visualize failure probabilities. Planning for legacy and income stability is crucial for retirees.

June 22, 202622 min

Episode 358 - The Hidden Leak in Your Financial Life (And How to Fix It)

Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins delve into a groundbreaking cash flow system designed to transform the way individuals approach wealth building in today's episode of Built For Life Not Just Wealth. This innovative system simplifies the process by automating both savings and spending, effectively eliminating the need for willpower. By aligning financial habits with long-term goals, it empowers users to achieve financial stability and growth effortlessly. Through insightful discussions, Ryan and Alex explore how this system can lead to a more secure and prosperous financial future. Check out our website: https://www.builtforlifenotjustwealth.com/ Find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlifenotjustwealth/ Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.quantifiedfinancial.com/subscribe-now Check out our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanburklofinance?igsh=ZTJzN3Jnajd5M2Mw Ryan Burklo's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanburklo/ Alex Collin's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandercollins/ For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/RyanBurklo #BuiltForLifeNotJustWealth #cashflowsystem #wealthbuilding #financialplanning #savingsautomation #incomemanagement #financialindependence Key Topics Cash flow design vs income problem Automated savings system Impact of small savings increases over time Inflation and future income projections Systematic wealth accumulation Chapters 00:00 Understanding Cash Flow Design Problems 02:54 The Importance of a Cash Flow System 05:56 Analyzing Income and Lifestyle Changes 09:03 The Impact of Small Savings Increases 11:49 Implementing a Wealth Building Account 14:49 Creating Financial Freedom Through Structure 17:54 The Need for a Better System, Not More Income