The Agent of Wealth

Hosted by Marc Bautis

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Episodes

304

Latest episode

Aug 2026

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About the show

Welcome to The Agent of Wealth Podcast with Marc Bautis from Bautis Financial. In this podcast, Marc helps small business owners and retirees overcome the multiple wealth planning challenges involved in your financial life. We do this by creating comprehensive wealth management plans to guide you towards financial freedom, ensure you never run out of money and help create a balance in life that prioritizes what is most important to you. Join us for this journey as Marc draws from years of expertise and guest experts to solve the multiple wealth planning issues involved in your financial life.

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60 recent

August 14, 2026Episode 30527 min

Donating More Than Cash: A Guide to Tax-Efficient Charitable Giving With Phoenix Hafen

In this episode of The Agent of Wealth , co-host John Williams speaks with Phoenix Hafen, Partnerships Manager at UI Charitable , about the growing world of crypto philanthropy and the broader strategies that can make charitable giving more tax-efficient. Phoenix explains why appreciated assets — including Bitcoin, publicly traded securities, private business interests and real estate — can sometimes be more advantageous to donate than cash. He also breaks down how donor-advised funds (DAFs) work, why charitable bunching can be useful, and how donors can separate the timing of a charitable tax deduction from when the money is ultimately granted to a nonprofit. In this episode, you will learn: Why appreciated assets can be more tax-efficient to donate than cash. How Bitcoin is treated for charitable giving purposes. How donor-advised funds work and when a donor-advised fund may — or may not — make sense. How charitable assets can be invested and grow tax-free. Examples of unconventional philanthropic strategies. And more! Whether you regularly give to charity, hold highly appreciated assets or are simply looking for more strategic ways to approach philanthropy, this episode offers a fresh perspective on charitable giving. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | uicharitable.org | Bautis Financial : 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

August 7, 2026Episode 30426 min

What Never Split the Difference Teaches Us About Negotiation

Whether you’re negotiating a business deal, discussing finances, or navigating everyday disagreements, the ability to communicate effectively can change the outcome. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth , the Bautis Financial team discusses another book in their Book Club series : Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It–Unlock Your Persuasion Potential in Professional and Personal Life by Chris Voss and Tahl Raz. The book explores the psychology behind successful negotiations and reveals how techniques used by FBI hostage negotiators can be applied to everyday conversations — from business decisions and client relationships to personal interactions. Rather than focusing on winning arguments, Chris Voss emphasizes the importance of understanding people, building trust, and creating better outcomes through effective communication. In this episode, we discuss: Why negotiation is less about convincing others and more about understanding their perspective. How tactical empathy, labeling, and mirroring can help build trust and improve conversations. Why emotions play a major role in decision-making and how to navigate them effectively. The importance of asking better questions to uncover challenges and create stronger commitments. How negotiation strategies can apply to financial planning conversations with clients And more! Tune in for a conversation about one of the most influential books on persuasion and human behavior. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It–Unlock Your Persuasion Potential in Professional and Personal Life | Bautis Financial : 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send us a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

July 31, 2026Episode 30318 min

How Financial Abuse Happens — and How Survivors Rebuild With Amanda J. Scott

Money is one of the most powerful tools in a relationship — but when it's used to control instead of support, the consequences can be devastating. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth , host Marc Bautis is joined by Amanda J. Scott, author of Finding My Way Back to Me . After enduring 17 years of emotional and financial abuse, Amanda now helps survivors recognize the warning signs of abuse, reclaim their independence and rebuild their lives. Together, Marc and Amanda discuss what financial abuse looks like, why it's often so difficult to recognize, and how survivors can begin the journey toward healing and financial empowerment. In this episode, you will learn: How emotional abuse often lays the foundation for financial abuse and why the two frequently go hand in hand. The subtle warning signs of financial abuse — including isolation, control over money and the gradual loss of confidence and independence. How friends and family can support someone they believe may be experiencing abuse. The financial and emotional challenges survivors face after leaving an abusive relationship — and the resources available to help them rebuild. And more! Tune in for an important conversation that sheds light on a frequently overlooked form of abuse, offering practical insights, hope and encouragement for survivors and those who want to support them. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | amandajscott.com | Bautis Financial : 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send us a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

July 24, 2026Episode 30239 min

What AI Adoption Is Doing to Private Company Valuations With Ted Wolf

Is AI increasing your company's value—or putting it at risk of falling behind? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast , co-host John Williams is joined by Ted Wolf, CEO and Founder of Guidewise.ai and author of The Intelligent Business Equation . Ted shares why artificial intelligence is becoming a key driver of private company value, how business owners should approach AI implementation, and what buyers and investors will be looking for in the years ahead. In this episode, you will learn: Why AI adoption is quickly becoming a factor in private company valuations—and what happens if businesses fail to adapt. The three foundational steps every business should take before implementing AI. How AI can reduce operational risk, improve productivity, and make a business more attractive to buyers. Why the future of work will depend as much on critical thinking and emotional intelligence as it does on technical skills. And more! Tune in for an insightful conversation on how business owners can use AI strategically—not just to improve efficiency today, but to build a more valuable, resilient, and future-ready company. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | guidewise.ai | Email Ted: ted@guidewise.ai | Connect with Ted on LinkedIn: Ted Wolf | The Intelligent Business Equation | Bautis Financial : 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send us a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

July 17, 2026Episode 30130 min

Crypto’s Dirty Secret: Why Investors Are Vulnerable to Fraud With Courtney M. Werning

Could your cryptocurrency disappear overnight — and if it did, would anyone be responsible? As digital assets become more mainstream, so do the scams, security failures, and legal questions surrounding them… In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast , host Marc Bautis is joined by Courtney M. Werning, Principal at Meyer Wilson Werning and leader of the firm's cryptocurrency litigation practice. Courtney has spent more than a decade helping investors recover losses caused by financial institutions, securities fraud, and cryptocurrency-related misconduct. Together, they explore the hidden risks of crypto investing, the rise of increasingly sophisticated scams, and what investors should know if their digital assets are compromised. In this episode, you will learn: Why many crypto losses aren't simply the result of market volatility — and when investors may have legal options. The most common cryptocurrency scams, including social engineering attacks, account takeovers, phishing schemes, and recovery scams. Why Gen Z is being targeted by scammers more frequently than any other generation, despite growing up in a digital-first world. Practical steps investors can take to better protect themselves from fraud, AI-powered scams, and cybersecurity threats. And more! Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | meyerwilson.com | Bautis Financial : 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send us a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

July 10, 2026Episode 30031 min

Avoid Startup Failure: The Legal Mistakes Founders Make Before Launch With Philip Crowley

Before you hire your first employee, file your first patent or bring on a co-founder, there are a few legal decisions that can determine whether your startup succeeds—or struggles. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast , host Marc Bautis is joined by Philip Crowley, startup advisor, attorney, founder of Crowley Law LLC and author of Avoid Startup Failure . Drawing on decades of experience at Johnson & Johnson and advising technology startups, Philip shares the legal pitfalls entrepreneurs commonly overlook—and how avoiding them can protect both their innovations and their equity. In this episode, you will learn: Why founders should establish the right legal entity early—and how the choice between an LLC and a corporation can impact both liability protection and future tax benefits. The costly mistakes entrepreneurs make when negotiating term sheets, protecting intellectual property and waiting too long to seek legal guidance. Why written agreements with employees, contractors and co-founders are essential for protecting your company's intellectual property and attracting investors. How vesting schedules, founder agreements and thoughtful planning can prevent disputes and preserve long-term value as your business grows. And more! Tune in for practical legal strategies every entrepreneur should know before launching, hiring, raising capital or bringing a new product to market. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | Avoid Startup Failure: Learn the Top 10 Causes of Failure for Technology Startups and How to Turn Them to Your Advantage by Philip Crowley | https://crowleylawllc.com | Email: info@crowleylawllc.com | Bautis Financial : 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

July 2, 2026Episode 29931 min

Retire Strong: Physical Health Strategies for Your Next Chapter With Susan Brady

What's the biggest threat to your retirement? It might not be inflation or market volatility. It could be losing your strength, mobility, and independence. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast , co-host John Williams is joined by Susan Brady , a physical therapist, integrative health practitioner, and bone health expert with more than 30 years of experience. Susan shares why building wealth for retirement is only part of the equation — and how maintaining your strength, mobility, and independence can help you fully enjoy the years you've worked so hard to reach. In this episode, you will learn: Why exercise becomes even more important as we age — and why everyday activities alone aren't enough to preserve muscle and bone. How nutrition, gut health, and proper protein intake play a critical role in maintaining bone density and preventing fractures. Why falls — not just osteoporosis — are one of the biggest threats to independence in retirement, and practical ways to reduce your risk. How Susan's holistic BONES Method helps people build stronger bones naturally through lifestyle, nutrition, movement, and personalized care. And more! Tune in for actionable strategies to protect your health, stay active, and maintain the independence needed to enjoy a long, fulfilling retirement. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | nurturedbones.com | Bautis Financial : 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call Want to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

June 26, 2026Episode 29825 min

What Co-op and Condo Owners Should Know About Board Governance With Tina Larsson

Your condo or co-op may be your biggest investment—but is poor board governance quietly reducing its value? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast , co-host John Williams is joined by Tina Larsson, Co-Founder of The Folson Group , New York's premier co-op and condo consulting firm. After uncovering $340,000 in unnecessary expenses in her own building, Tina left a successful Wall Street career to help co-op and condo boards improve governance, strengthen financial oversight, and protect property values. Together, they discuss how effective leadership, proactive planning, and informed decision-making can make a significant difference for property owners and prospective buyers alike. In this episode, you will learn: How board governance directly impacts property values, monthly fees, and long-term building health. What buyers should look for beyond financial statements before purchasing a condo or co-op. Why serving on your building's board may be one of the best ways to protect your largest investment. Practical strategies boards can use to improve operations, reduce unnecessary costs, and plan proactively for the future. And more! Tune in for an insightful conversation on how stronger governance can help preserve property values, improve communities, and avoid costly mistakes before they happen. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | The Folson Group | Living the High Life | Bautis Financial : 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

June 17, 2026Episode 29714 min

The Hidden Estate Planning Trap: Why You Need an Annual Beneficiary Audit

What if a single form you filled out decades ago could override your will and completely change where your assets end up? For millions of Americans, outdated beneficiary designations create costly estate planning mistakes that can leave loved ones fighting legal battles, paying unnecessary fees, or losing inheritances altogether. In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast , host Marc Bautis explains why beneficiary designations are one of the most overlooked components of a financial plan. Through real-life examples and practical guidance, Marc breaks down how retirement accounts, life insurance policies, brokerage accounts, and bank accounts are transferred after death — and why keeping your beneficiary information current is essential to protecting your family's financial future. In this episode, you will learn: Why beneficiary designations often override your will and trust documents. How outdated or missing beneficiaries can create expensive legal and probate complications. The difference between assets that pass through probate and those that transfer directly to beneficiaries. How to conduct a comprehensive beneficiary audit across all of your financial accounts. And more! Tune in for a step-by-step guide to reviewing your beneficiary designations, avoiding common estate planning pitfalls, and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial : 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

June 5, 2026Episode 29622 min

The Trillion-Dollar Launch: Decoding the SpaceX IPO

SpaceX is poised to become one of the world's most valuable public companies overnight. The question is: does the opportunity justify the risk? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast , host Marc Bautis takes a deep dive into the highly anticipated SpaceX IPO. Rather than offering a simple buy-or-sell recommendation, Marc breaks down the company's S-1 filing, explores the business segments driving its massive valuation, and examines both the opportunities and risks facing potential investors. In this episode, you will learn: Why SpaceX's expected $1.77 trillion valuation makes it one of the largest companies in the world from day one. How Starlink, launch services, and the integration of xAI are shaping SpaceX's growth story and future potential. The biggest risks hidden in the IPO prospectus, including cash burn, valuation concerns, governance issues, and Elon Musk dependency. A practical framework for determining whether a high-profile IPO belongs in your portfolio. And more! From Starlink and artificial intelligence to Elon Musk's influence and the realities of IPO investing, this episode provides a framework for evaluating one of the most talked-about investment opportunities in recent memory. Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial : 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call