Author Tamara Patzer, PhD, introduces “AI identity accuracy” and shows readers how to diagnose and correct the information AI systems use to define, describe and recommend them.
Fern Prosperity Founder Reveals Why Identity—Not Financial Knowledge—is the Missing Link to Lasting Wealth
Financial advisor, speaker, and founder of Fern Prosperity, Pri Cosentino, has released her groundbreaking new book, Who You Are Is Costing You Money, offering a fresh perspective on why so many intelligent, capable people continue to struggle financially despite knowing what they should do.
Drawing from behavioral neuroscience, financial planning, and years of experience working with individuals and families, Cosentino argues that the biggest obstacle to financial success is not a lack of knowledge; it is the way people see themselves.
At the heart of the book is the concept of the Identity Gap: the distance between the financial decisions people are capable of making and the ones they actually make. Rather than focusing solely on budgeting strategies or investment tactics, Who You Are Is Costing You Money explores the emotional patterns, self-worth beliefs, fear, and shame that quietly influence financial behavior.
“For years I watched capable people do the exact opposite of what they knew they should with money. The gap was never knowledge—it was identity. Once you see who’s really making the decision, you can finally change it,” said Cosentino.
Through evidence-based insights and practical exercises, the book empowers readers to recognize the internal beliefs driving their financial choices and provides a clear framework for creating lasting behavioral change. By addressing the psychological and emotional roots of money decisions, readers can develop healthier financial habits and build sustainable wealth with greater confidence.
As the founder of Fern Prosperity, Cosentino has dedicated her career to helping individuals and families transform their relationship with money through a holistic approach that integrates financial planning, behavioral science, and personal growth. Her signature WISE Method combines practical financial education with neuroscience-backed strategies and faith-centered principles to help clients create meaningful, long-term financial success.
Pri Cosentino holds academic training in Business Administration, Accounting, and an MBA in Neuroscience, bringing together expertise from finance, psychology, and leadership to redefine the conversation around wealth building.
Who You Are Is Costing You Money is now available for readers seeking a deeper understanding of the connection between identity and financial well-being. The book is designed for anyone who has ever wondered why knowing the right financial choices isn’t enough—and how lasting transformation begins from within.
For more information about Pri Cosentino, Fern Prosperity, or the new book, visit http://fernprosperity.com/
About Pri Cosentino
Pri Cosentino is a financial advisor, author, speaker, and founder of Fern Prosperity. Blending behavioral neuroscience with practical financial planning, she helps U.S. individuals and families build lasting wealth through her WISE Method. Trained in Business Administration, Accounting, and an MBA in Neuroscience, she unites financial education with faith and personal growth.
TC Bradley interviews Thomas Campbell, founder of The Light Project and author of From Ashes Into the Light. From childhood homelessness and foster care to leading a movement of hope, Campbell shares the experiences that inspired his vision for 24-hour Lighthouse Transformation Centers. Together they discuss leadership, purpose, faith, community, and building lives rooted in hope and transformation. Learn more by connecting with Thomas Campbell and The Light Project.
Rick Miller discusses the importance of protecting the surviving spouse in retirement
Listen to the interview on the Business Innovators Radio Network: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/interview-with-rick-miller-founder-of-miller-wealth-planning-discussing-protecting-the-surviving-spouse-in-retirement/
Rick Miller, the founder of Miller Wealth Management Planning. Delved into the crucial topic of protecting surviving spouses in retirement, a subject that Rick is particularly passionate about given his 27 years of experience in the field.
Protecting Surviving Spouses in Retirement
Retirement is often envisioned as a time of relaxation and enjoyment after years of hard work. However, for many, it can also be a period marked by significant challenges, especially for surviving spouses. The loss of a partner not only brings emotional pain but also presents a myriad of financial hurdles that must be navigated carefully. As discussed in a recent episode of the podcast “Influential Entrepreneurs,” hosted by Mike Saunders and featuring financial expert Rick Miller, the importance of protecting surviving spouses in retirement cannot be overstated.
One of the most pressing issues highlighted in the podcast is the concept of the “income cliff.” This term refers to the immediate financial challenges that often arise when one spouse passes away, leaving the other to manage a significantly reduced income. In many cases, the husband is the first to pass, leading to a situation where the wife, now a surviving spouse, faces a sharp decline in her financial resources.
When both spouses are alive, they typically enjoy a combined income from pensions, Social Security, and other sources. However, upon the death of one spouse, the surviving partner may experience a drastic reduction in income. For instance, if the deceased spouse had a pension, it may either cease entirely or be reduced significantly—often cut in half or down to a mere 25%. Similarly, Social Security benefits may also diminish, as the surviving spouse is only entitled to the higher of the two benefits rather than both.
The podcast also delves into the unique risks that women face in retirement. Statistically, women tend to outlive men, which means they are more likely to find themselves as surviving spouses. This longevity brings with it specific financial implications, particularly concerning long-term care. Women often require long-term care services for an extended period—averaging over five years—due to their longer life expectancy. The high costs associated with long-term care can deplete savings quickly, making it essential for women to have a robust plan in place.
Innovations in Long-Term Care Planning
To address the risks associated with long-term care, Rick Miller emphasizes the importance of hedging against this uncertainty. His practice focuses on innovative strategies that help individuals prepare for the possibility of needing long-term care without jeopardizing their financial stability. This includes exploring options such as long-term care insurance, hybrid policies, and other financial products designed to mitigate the risks associated with healthcare needs in later life.
The challenges faced by surviving spouses highlight the critical need for comprehensive retirement planning. It is essential for couples to engage in discussions about their financial future, considering scenarios that may arise, including the death of one spouse. Financial advisors play a vital role in helping clients navigate these complex issues, ensuring that both partners understand the implications of their financial decisions.
In conclusion, protecting surviving spouses in retirement is a multifaceted issue that requires attention to income, taxation, longevity, and long-term care. As discussed in the podcast, proactive planning and innovative financial strategies are essential to safeguard the financial well-being of those who are left behind. By addressing these challenges head-on, individuals can help ensure that surviving spouses can maintain their quality of life and achieve a secure retirement, even in the face of loss.
Rick shared: “This is a topic that’s near and dear to my heart because in the 27 years been in this business, as you might expect, had numerous deaths occur in my client base. And, typically what happens is the man that goes 1st, and it’s the wife that usually becomes the surviving spouse. And with that comes an awful lot of challenges.”
Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/embed/aPJBtgS-Y58
About Rick Miller
At Miller Wealth Planning, we provide Doctors, business owners and other high net worth individuals a comprehensive, bullet-proof financial plan. Rick has put together an exceptionally talented and experienced team to show you how to manage the numerous risks high net-worth professionals face.
These risks include: tax risk; market risk; longevity risk (running out of money);inflation risk; long term care risk, lawsuit risk and loss of income risk among others. Your freedom from worry is our objective.
Rick credentials include: Certificate in Financial Planning; IRMAA Certified Planner; Certified Dementia Practitioner and Investment Advisor Representative.
Rick has Master’s degrees in English and Counseling along with broad experience in business creation, real estate investing and more.
Learn more: https://www.thecaregapsolution.com/
Recent News & Interviews
Rick Miller Discussed Hedging the Long-Term Care Risk https://authoritypresswire.com/rick-miller-founder-of-miller-wealth-planning-interviewed-on-the-influential-entrepreneurs-podcast-discussing-hedging-the-long-term-care-risk/
Rick Miller Discussed Understanding IRMAA https://authoritypresswire.com/rick-miller-founder-of-miller-wealth-planning-interviewed-on-the-influential-entrepreneurs-podcast-discussing-understanding-irmaa/
Rick Miller Discussed Financial Planning as Risk Management https://authoritypresswire.com/rick-miller-founder-of-miller-wealth-planning-interviewed-on-the-influential-entrepreneurs-podcast-discussing-financial-planning-as-risk-management/
The opinions expressed on this show by the host and Fredric W. (Rick) Miller are their own and do not reflect the opinions of this radio or television station. All statements and opinions expressed are based upon information believed to be reliable. Although it should not be relied upon as such. Any statements or opinions are subject to change without notice.
Love Coach Lisa Copeland is taking her message of confidence, self-worth, and lasting love for women over 50 to television in Raven Blair Glover’s new There’s A Coach For That TV Masterclass Series.
IAOTP will release “Top 50 Fearless Leaders Volume 5” on July 28, 2026, extending its bestselling series with new stories of resilience, innovation, purpose, and global leadership.
NAPLES, Fla., July 2026 – As more Americans enter retirement, many are asking the same question: “What does a financial advisor actually do?” According to PFS Wealth Management Group, the answer extends far beyond investment management.
For individuals and families approaching or already enjoying retirement, today’s financial landscape has become increasingly complex. Decisions surrounding retirement income, taxation, Medicare, estate planning, and market uncertainty require careful coordination. As a result, the role of a financial advisor has evolved from selecting investments to helping families navigate every aspect of their financial lives.
“Many people believe a financial advisor’s primary responsibility is managing a portfolio,” said Vincent A. Virga, Founder and CEO of PFS Wealth Management Group. “While investment management remains an important part of the process, successful retirement planning requires much more. Our responsibility is to help clients make informed decisions that coordinate income, taxes, healthcare, estate planning, and long-term financial objectives.”
One of the most significant services provided by a financial advisor is retirement income planning. After decades of accumulating wealth, retirees face a very different challenge: converting those assets into a sustainable source of income. Questions surrounding Social Security claiming strategies, retirement account withdrawals, pension decisions, and investment distributions all influence whether a retirement plan can support a family’s desired lifestyle for years to come.
Investment management also remains an important component of the planning process. Rather than simply attempting to outperform markets, many retirees seek an investment strategy that aligns with their tolerance for risk, retirement timeline, income needs, and long-term goals. Maintaining discipline during periods of market volatility and ensuring investments remain consistent with an overall financial plan can help investors avoid making emotional decisions during uncertain markets.
Tax planning has also become an increasingly important part of retirement. Decisions regarding which accounts to withdraw from, whether Roth conversions may be appropriate, and how taxable income may affect Medicare premiums or Social Security taxation can influence long-term retirement outcomes. Coordinating these decisions within a comprehensive financial plan may improve overall efficiency while helping retirees better understand the potential tax implications of their retirement income strategy.
Healthcare planning is another area that deserves careful attention. While many retirees anticipate Medicare providing a foundation for healthcare coverage, planning also involves evaluating potential out-of-pocket expenses, long-term care considerations, and the financial impact of changing healthcare needs throughout retirement. Addressing these issues before they arise can help reduce uncertainty and better prepare families for the future.
Beyond investments, taxes, and healthcare, financial advisors frequently help clients coordinate other important areas of their financial lives, including beneficiary designations, estate planning considerations, insurance reviews, cash flow analysis, charitable giving objectives, and legacy planning. Rather than viewing these topics independently, comprehensive financial planning seeks to ensure that each component works together to support the client’s long-term goals.
According to PFS Wealth Management Group, many retirees discover that the greatest value of working with a financial advisor is not found in a single recommendation or investment decision, but in having a structured planning process that brings clarity and coordination to complex financial decisions.
“Retirement is one of life’s most significant transitions,” Virga added. “Our goal is to help families move into that next chapter with confidence, knowing they have a thoughtful plan designed around their unique objectives.”
As more families seek guidance during an increasingly complex retirement landscape, understanding the role of a financial advisor can help individuals determine whether comprehensive financial planning may be appropriate for their circumstances.
Individuals interested in learning more about retirement planning, wealth management, and financial strategies for retirees are encouraged to visit www.pfswealthgroup.com.
About PFS Wealth Management Group
PFS Wealth Management Group is an independent wealth management firm headquartered in Naples, Florida, serving pre-retirees, retirees, business owners, and high-net-worth families. The firm provides comprehensive wealth management services with an emphasis on retirement income planning, investment management, tax-aware strategies, estate planning coordination, and legacy planning. PFS Wealth Management Group’s mission is to bring extraordinary value to extraordinary families each and every day by helping clients pursue financial confidence through disciplined, comprehensive planning.
Required Disclosure:
Insurance products are offered through the insurance business PFS Wealth Management Group. PFS Wealth Management Group is also an
Investment Advisory practice that offers products and services through AE Wealth Management, LLC (AEWM), a Registered Investment Advisor. AEWM does not offer insurance products. The insurance products offered by PFS Wealth Management Group are not subject to Investment Advisor requirements.
Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Any references to protection, safety or lifetime income, generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investments. Insurance guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying abilities of the issuing carrier. This radio show is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Please remember that converting an employer plan account to a Roth IRA is a taxable event. Increased taxable income from the Roth IRA conversion may have several consequences. Be sure to consult with a qualified tax advisor before making any decisions regarding your IRA
PFS Wealth Management Group is not permitted to offer and no statement made during this show shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency. The information and opinions contained herein provided by third parties have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed by PFS Wealth Management Group. This press release is a paid placement. 04210852-07/26
Jon Bowles discusses Navigating Retirement
Listen to the interview on the Business Innovators Radio Network: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/interview-with-jon-bowles-founder-of-jlb-financial/
In this episode of Influential Entrepreneurs, Jon Bowles, the founder of JLB Financial. Jon shared his inspiring journey into the financial services industry, which began nearly 29 years ago, motivated by his desire to help people like his mother, who raised five sons and needed guidance for a comfortable retirement.
In the realm of financial services, the journey toward a secure and fulfilling retirement is often likened to assembling a complex puzzle. Each piece of this puzzle represents a vital component of an individual’s financial landscape, and the challenge lies in ensuring that all pieces fit together seamlessly to create a complete picture. This concept was eloquently articulated in a recent podcast episode featuring Jon Bowles, the founder of JLB Financial, who shared his insights on the importance of viewing the entire financial picture when preparing for retirement.
Understanding the Financial Landscape
When individuals approach retirement, they frequently have a limited understanding of the various elements that contribute to their financial well-being. Many people mistakenly believe that retirement is simply a matter of stopping work and filing for Social Security benefits. However, as Jon Bowles emphasizes, retirement planning is far more intricate. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of multiple financial factors, including savings, investments, pensions, Social Security, healthcare costs, and estate planning.
Bowles’ personal journey into the financial services industry began with a profound realization while discussing retirement with his mother. He recognized that many individuals, particularly those from modest backgrounds, often lack the resources or knowledge to navigate the complexities of retirement planning. This realization became his mission: to help clients retire with comfort, dignity, and financial security. His story underscores the importance of empathy and understanding in the financial advisory profession, as well as the need for a holistic approach to financial planning.
The Importance of a Holistic View
To effectively serve clients, financial advisors must adopt a holistic perspective that encompasses all aspects of a client’s financial situation. Bowles points out that without a complete view of the financial landscape, clients may make decisions that seem beneficial in the short term but could jeopardize their long-term financial stability. For instance, withdrawing funds from retirement accounts too early or neglecting to account for healthcare expenses can lead to significant financial strain later in life.
Essential Pieces of the Retirement Puzzle
So, what are some of the critical pieces that comprise the financial puzzle of retirement? According to Bowles, several key components must be considered to create a well-rounded retirement plan:
Savings and Investments: Evaluating existing savings and investment portfolios is crucial. This includes understanding asset allocation, risk exposure, and the potential for growth over time.
Social Security Benefits: Many individuals underestimate the role that Social Security plays in their retirement income. Advisors can help clients strategize when to claim benefits to maximize their lifetime payouts.
Healthcare Costs: With rising healthcare expenses, it’s essential to plan for medical costs in retirement. This includes considering Medicare coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Pensions and Annuities: For those with pensions or annuities, understanding the terms and benefits of these income sources is vital. Advisors can help clients navigate options to ensure they receive the maximum benefit.
Estate Planning: Preparing for the transfer of wealth and assets after death is an often-overlooked aspect of financial planning. Advisors can assist clients in creating wills, trusts, and other estate planning documents to ensure their wishes are honored.
Tax Strategies: Effective tax planning can significantly impact retirement income. Understanding how different income sources are taxed and implementing strategies to minimize tax liability can enhance financial security.
In conclusion, the journey to a secure retirement is akin to piecing together a complex puzzle. It requires a thorough understanding of the various components that contribute to an individual’s financial well-being. By adopting a holistic approach to retirement planning, financial advisors can empower their clients to navigate the complexities of their financial landscape with confidence and clarity. As Jon Bowles exemplifies, seeing the whole financial picture is not just about numbers; it’s about understanding the human element and ensuring that clients can retire with dignity and peace of mind.
Jon shared: “And it was that moment in time that realized that there are going to be a lot of people over the next 30 to 40 years that are going to need this kind of help because they’ve just had other things in their lives that basically didn’t allow them to save a lot of money, but yet raised very successful families and really good people. And it was then that the realization to serve kind of hit me square in the face.”
Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/embed/h6qa37D_UuE
About Jon Bowles
For nearly three decades, He has helped Southern California families plan for complex financial goals — building retirement income, protecting what they’ve earned, managing taxes, and passing on what matters to the people they love.
Since 1997, He has worked with hundreds of individuals, families, and business owners to build and execute comprehensive retirement income plans. Jon has guided clients through two major economic downturns, and those experiences shaped the cornerstone of my practice: preserving capital comes first. Growth matters, but in retirement, what you keep matters more.
His approach is holistic. He looks at the financial house from every angle — wealth management, retirement income, tax planning, Medicare and IRMAA exposure, Social Security timing, and legacy — because these pieces don’t work in isolation, and neither should the plan. Trust review and trust planning are a core part of that work: He regularly helps families make sure their trusts still reflect their wishes, their assets, and current law — not the circumstances of a decade ago. And as an IRMAA Certified Planner, he pays particular attention to a cost most retirees never see coming: Medicare premium surcharges that can quietly drain tens of thousands from a retirement over time.
Jon is a graduate of UCLA and began my career at Morgan Stanley Dean Witter, followed by Citi Personal Wealth Management and NettWorth Financial Group, before founding his own firm. That path — from Wall Street institutions to independent practice — was deliberate. Independence means his recommendations answer to their goals, not a product shelf.
Away from the office, he is a husband and father of three. His wife, an attorney, and he built their family the same way he helps clients build their retirements: with hard work, discipline, and a long view. Watching our kids grow into their own success is a daily reminder of why this work matters — a well-built plan isn’t just about you. It’s about everyone who comes after them.
Whether they’re just beginning to think about retirement or need a second opinion on an existing plan, he’ll take the time to understand their unique situation and give their straight answers.
Jon L. Bowles is an investment adviser representative with Secure Investment Management and holds California Insurance License #0C88392.
Learn more: http://www.jlbfinanciallegacyplanning.com/
Secure Investment Management, LLC (“SIM”) is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Our Form ADV disclosure documents are available upon request or on the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
Ronda Romero’s Angels in Everyday Life: True Encounters with Angels, Divine Voices, and Supernatural Rescue has debuted on the Amazon Best Seller list. Making the achievement even more meaningful, the book appeared alongside Dr. Billy Graham’s Angels: God’s Secret Agents, a book that profoundly influenced Romero’s faith and inspired her own writing. Her powerful true stories remind readers that God still speaks, angels are real, and miracles still happen today.
Bishop Sherman D. Manning is a Los Angeles faith leader, author, podcast host, and homeless advocate known for his message of redemption, faith, and second chances. His ministry has supported people experiencing homelessness with food, housing help, clothing, documents, and social services, while his public work has drawn media attention, community recognition, and support from faith leaders, public officials, and well-known figures.