The Unconventional Investor

Hosted by Michelle Moses | CFP® & Realtor®

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Aug 2026

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About the show

Are you feeling overwhelmed managing your portfolio? Are you looking for ways to simplify your finances, generate more income, and build lasting wealth? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you’re in the right place! Welcome to The Unconventional Investor® podcast—a show dedicated to helping investors explore non-traditional investments and real estate strategies to create a stronger, more diversified portfolio. My goal is to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to make informed financial decisions, think outside the traditional stock market, and achieve your long-term financial goals. I’m your host, Michelle Moses—a Certified Financial Planner®, licensed Realtor®, and Founder of Me Financial. With over 20 years of experience helping clients achieve their financial dreams, I’ve built my expertise by owning multiple businesses, flipping houses, managing rental properties, and investing in a wide range of alternative assets. Each week, I’ll share tips and proven strategies to help you navigate the world of investments with clarity and purpose. Whether it’s real estate, private equity, or other unconventional opportunities, this podcast will give you the tools to balance your portfolio with your lifestyle—and invest in ways that truly excite you. Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts and be sure to share your favourite episode with a friend. Visit the website to learn more about our services https://www.mefinancial.net/

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August 18, 2026Episode 9616 min

Beyond Cash: How to Maximize Your Charitable Tax Deductions (Ep 96)

In this final part of my Charitable Giving series, I explain the 2026 charitable tax laws following provisions from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and what they mean for your charitable donations and tax deductions. The new 2026 tax laws change how taxpayers can benefit from charitable tax deductions , creating challenges for some high-income earners and new opportunities for lower- and middle-income filers. I also share strategies to make your charitable giving more tax-efficient, including donor-advised funds, qualified charitable distributions (QCDs), and naming a favorite charity as a beneficiary of certain financial accounts. Whether you give a little or a lot, the goal is to align your generosity with your values and financial goals. Learn how to give with purpose, make your charitable donations go further, and take advantage of the current tax laws. Ready to give with purpose and strategy? Listen to the full episode for actionable giving strategies that everyone should hear. No matter how much you give, the feeling of helping others is unmatched. Key Takeaways: The New Laws Regarding Giving: The latest laws cap your charitable write-offs to $1,000 (single) or $2,000 (married) if you take the standard deduction, even if you give much more. Optimize Your Impact: Consider strategic options like donating appreciated securities directly, supporting donor-advised funds, or listing charities as beneficiaries on IRAs or life insurance to maximize your tax benefits. Get Creative And Consult Professionals: For larger gifts, tools like qualified charitable distributions or charitable remainder trusts can work wonders, but always run these by your CPA or tax advisor. Ready for the next step? Subscribe to the Podcast: pod.link/1671924778 Please leave a review because it helps more listeners discover the show! Follow Michelle for more financial tips: YouTube: youtube.com/@theunconventionalinvestor Facebook: facebook.com/theunconventionalinvestorpodcast 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 financial, legal, or tax advice. 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.

August 4, 2026Episode 9521 min

Building a Generosity Habit P2: How to Make Charitable Giving Fun w/ Tessa Wardzinski (Ep 95)

In this episode, Tessa Wardzinski and I continue our discussion about philanthropy and building a generosity habit. We talk about how to make charitable giving a fulfilling and enjoyable part of your life. There are many ways to give, from fundraising galas to hands-on volunteering and family-based donation traditions, we discuss the ways that giving can fit your values, lifestyle, and even your competitive spirit. Whether you’re looking for ways to involve your kids, strategies to blend giving with your career, or simply want to know why some fundraisers really work, this episode will inspire you to find what resonates and make generosity a joyful habit. Key takeaways: Make It Personal & Fun: Find giving activities you truly enjoy whether that’s organizing family donation projects, supporting causes close to your heart, or even picking up trash together for a sense of instant accomplishment. Giving doesn’t have to be boring or obligatory; it can be creative, social, and fulfilling. Leverage Your Skills: Donating your expertise can be just as valuable as financial gifts. Volunteering professional skills not only provides tangible value to nonprofits but can also empower their teams with new knowledge and capabilities. Encourage Friendly Competition: If you thrive on challenges, set up giving competitions with your colleagues or friends. Leaderboards and collective goals can boost motivation, create excitement, and maximize your charitable impact. Whether you prefer to give your time, money, or unique talents, the key is to do it your way and have fun along the journey. Tune into this episode for inspiration on how to create more meaning, fun, and connection in your giving journey. Looking for guidance on giving with impact? Tessa recommends The Life You Can Save by Peter Singer for anyone wanting to make their donation dollars count globally. Ready for the next step? Subscribe to the Podcast: pod.link/1671924778 Please leave a review because it helps more listeners discover the show! Follow Michelle for more financial tips: YouTube: youtube.com/@theunconventionalinvestor Facebook: facebook.com/theunconventionalinvestorpodcast 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 financial, legal, or investment advice. Always consult with a qualified advisor regarding your charitable giving or financial decisions. Neither the hosts nor guests are responsible for actions taken based on the information shared.

July 21, 2026Episode 9429 min

Building a Generosity Habit P1: Why Charitable Giving Makes Life Richer w/ Tessa Wardzinski (Ep 94)

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. Subscribe to the podcast and please leave a review! pod.link/1671924778 Follow Michelle for more financial tips: YouTube: youtube.com/@theunconventionalinvestor Facebook: facebook.com/theunconventionalinvestorpodcast 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. 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.

July 7, 2026Episode 9313 min

How Arizona Taxpayers Can Support Charities Without Spending More Money (Ep 93)

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/ Ready for the next step? Subscribe to the podcast: pod.link/1671924778 Please leave a comment or review Share this episode with a friend Follow Michelle for more financial tips: YouTube: youtube.com/@theunconventionalinvestor Facebook: facebook.com/theunconventionalinvestorpodcast 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.

February 13, 2024Episode 2420 min

Ep. 24 - My Honest Opinion About Life Insurance & the Different Ways to Utilize it

Are you confused by the different messages you receive about life insurance? Learn how life insurance can fit into your financial plan, whether it's a smart investment or something you should bypass. I give you the low down on life insurance in this episode - What the different types of life insurance are and how they work How I use policies in my financial planning Terms and phrases like "Indexed" and "Participation Rate" to look out for when shopping Where to shop for insurance There is no one-size-fits-all to any financial product, I hope you gain clarity by listening to this episode. Follow Michelle on Instagram Me Financial Website If you enjoyed today's episode, please share it with your circle or leave a review ! 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.

October 22, 2024Episode 5621 min

How to Maximize Your Tax Savings with Employee Benefits - w/ Corina Delugos (Ep. 56)

We've all seen that long list of options your employer hands you. Do you need all of them? Which ones are worth it? In this episode, Corina Vakira Delugos, MBA, EA talks to us about which benefits can save you in taxes - so you're spending tax-free money for your expenses. Corina is a financial services professional with over 25 years of experience in tax, mortgage, and insurance planning. Key Takeaways: Utilize Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) Wisely: Depend Care FSA : Set aside up to $5,000 pretax for child or dependent care. Healthcare FSA : Use for out-of-pocket medical expenses, but remember that funds generally don’t roll over. Maximize Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): Paired with high deductible health plans. Triple tax benefits: contributions are tax-deductible, growth is tax-free, and withdrawals for medical expenses are also tax-free. Explore Employee Stock Purchase Plans (ESPPs): Purchase company stock at a discount. Hold for over a year for favorable long-term capital gains tax treatment. Listen to the full episode for more tips and strategies to save on taxes while making the most of your employee benefits! Contact Corina - www.keenfinancialsolutions.com Ready to ditch the financial stress? Subscribe to the Podcast: pod.link/1671924778 Don't forget to leave a review! Follow Michelle on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theunconventionalinvestor Follow Michelle on Instagram: michelle.e.moses Work with Michelle: 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.

August 6, 2024Episode 4732 min

Strategies to Prepare Your Business for Sale with Laurie Barkman (Ep. 47)

Are you looking forward to selling your business, and doing it for top dollar? Learn how to maximize your business's value and achieve a smooth exit. In this episode, we get into business valuations, exit planning, and the importance of financial readiness for a successful sale. Laurie Barkman, the Business Transition Sherpa™, shares insights on protecting your business, setting growth goals, and understanding the different perspectives of strategic and financial buyers. Key Takeaways: Start Early and Plan Ahead: Begin your exit planning process at least 10 years before your desired sale date to maximize your return and avoid pitfalls. Focus on Financials: Showcase your business's growth potential by ensuring your financials are in order and demonstrating enterprise value. Understand Your Buyer: Identify potential buyers for your business and tailor your strategy accordingly, whether you're targeting strategic buyers, financial buyers, or related buyers. Identify potential buyers for your business and tailor your strategy accordingly. Ready to start planning your exit strategy? Schedule a consultation with Laurie Barkman or visit her website - https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/ Subscribe to the Me Financial Podcast to hear more and don't forget to leave a review! Buy Laurie's Book, "The Business Transition Handbook" - https://amzn.to/4biANs5 Link to Laurie's Masterclass, "Endgame Entrepreneurship" - thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com Follow Michelle on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@theunconventionalinvestor Follow Michelle on Instagram - instagram.com/michelle.e.moses Visit the Me Financial 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.

June 6, 202326 min

Ep. 4 - The Art of Alternative Investing: Choosing the Right Investment for You

Certified Financial Planner, Michelle Moses explores the world of alternative investments with guest Chrissa Michelle, a commercial mortgage lender. Join them as they explore options like commercial properties, crowdfunding, and unique ventures. Gain insights on diversifying your portfolio for financial growth. M e Financial Chrissa Michelle

June 10, 2025Episode 7224 min

Oil & Gas 102: Trellis Energy’s Approach to Reducing Risk in Oil and Gas Investments (Ep 72)

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 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: 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.

April 15, 2025Episode 6716 min

From Self-Directed IRAs to Subscription Agreements: The Mechanics of Alternative Investing (Ep 67)

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.