Latest Stories in "In The News"

Brian Crawley Introduces a Team-Based Model Transforming Real Estate Investing in Utah

An integrated real estate and lending strategy emphasizes experience, coordination, and long-term wealth building 
Brian Crawley is redefining how entrepreneurs and investors approach real estate by introducing a coordinated, team-based model that integrates real estate strategy and mortgage expertise under one unified framework. With a background spanning both high-growth real estate and mortgage organizations, Brian’s approach centers on organization, experience, and investor-focused outcomes in an industry where fragmentation often leads to missed opportunities and unnecessary risk. 
The problem? Many real estate investors rely on loosely connected professionals—agents, lenders, and advisors who operate independently rather than collaboratively. This lack of coordination can result in higher costs, misaligned incentives, and strategies that fail to support long-term wealth creation. In the end, commissions are usually put ahead of the clients best interests. Brian’s model addresses this gap by aligning real estate and mortgage professionals around a shared objective: protecting the investor’s interests while identifying strategic opportunities. 
Over the past six years, Brian has been an owner or partner in both a large real estate company and a large mortgage company. Drawing from this experience, he has developed laser-focused teams designed to work in lockstep, combining market insight, lending strategy, and execution to support more informed investment decisions. 
At the core of Brian’s philosophy is the belief that the right team determines success in real estate investing. Rather than viewing home equity as idle value, his approach treats it as a strategic tool for building wealth. Investors working with Brian’s teams are guided to think beyond individual transactions and toward integrated strategies that support growth, efficiency, and resilience across market cycles. 
Brian works closely with his lending company, First Rate Home Loans, alongside real estate professionals affiliated with firms including Abraxia, Realtypath, Keller Williams, and Equity Real Estate. This collaborative structure allows for streamlined communication, clearer planning, and a more consistent client experience throughout the investment process. 
“In real estate, experience and coordination matter more than most people realize,” said Brian. “When investors have a team that is organized, aligned, and focused on outcomes, they are positioned to make better decisions and avoid costly mistakes. To put it simply, When the clients investment and outcome take number one priority, everyone wins long-term” 
In addition to his operational experience, Brian has spent more than a decade developing a proprietary system designed to identify real estate investment opportunities that are not widely available to the general public. This system is paired with a client-first philosophy that prioritizes long-term relationships and sustainable results. In some cases, this includes structuring transactions in ways that favor investor outcomes, even when it requires internal concessions. 
Brian’s approach reflects a broader shift within real estate investing toward transparency, collaboration, and strategic planning. As market conditions evolve and investors seek greater efficiency and clarity, integrated models that align lending and real estate expertise are gaining attention for their potential to reduce risk and increase opportunity. 
Entrepreneurs and investors interested in learning more about Brian’s team-based real estate and mortgage strategy are encouraged to explore available resources or initiate a conversation to assess alignment and opportunity. 
To learn more about Brian Crawley, visit www.brianc360.com
To learn more about First Rate Home Loans, visit www.firstratehomeloans.com 

High-Functioning Collapse Survivor Gabriela Popescu Launches From Chaos to Harmony

Women trapped by self-abandonment gain an unlikely guide in Gabriela Popescu’s From Chaos to Harmony—a chaos-forged program combining decades of lived healing with the SOUL Path framework. This isn’t therapy or typical self-help; it’s a transformational journey that takes you from self-betrayal to wholeness and teaches you to radiate.

James Kroshus, President of Treasure Valley Retirement Shield, Interviewed on the Influential Entrepreneurs Podcast, Discussing Long Term Care & Estate Planning

James Kroshus discusses the importance of long-term care & estate planning 
Listen to the interview on the Business Innovators Radio Network: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/interview-with-james-kroshus-president-of-treasure-valley-retirement-shield-discussing-long-term-care-estate-planning/
James emphasized the importance of having a trust in place to avoid the costly and lengthy probate process. He shared real-life examples, including a case where an attorney charged exorbitant fees for a trust that wasn’t properly funded, leading to significant financial loss for the heirs. He also highlighted the dangers of not having a co-trustee, which can result in family assets being transferred to unrelated parties. 
 In the journey of life, one inevitable truth remains: none of us can escape death. While this may seem a morbid reality, it serves as a powerful reminder of our responsibilities to those we love. As discussed in a recent podcast, the act of planning for the future of our loved ones is not merely a legal obligation but a profound expression of love and care. The conversation highlighted the necessity of estate planning, emphasizing that those who love others should take proactive steps to ensure their well-being even after we are gone. 
The essence of estate planning lies in its ability to safeguard the future of our loved ones. When we pass away, the impact of our decisions—or lack thereof—can resonate through generations. If we fail to plan, we risk leaving our family members with the burden of navigating complex legal and financial landscapes during an already difficult time. As the podcast host pointed out, “If we mess it up, we mess it up for our kids.” This sentiment underscores the importance of taking the time to create a comprehensive estate plan, one that reflects our wishes and provides for our family’s needs. 
For those who have loved ones they wish to protect, the first step in the estate planning process is to connect with a knowledgeable attorney. The podcast featured James Kroshus, an expert in estate planning, who provided valuable insights into the process. He emphasized that reaching out to professionals can help individuals navigate the intricacies of estate planning, ensuring that their assets are managed according to their desires. As James stated, “When you love someone, you plan.” This simple yet profound statement encapsulates the essence of why estate planning is essential. 
One critical aspect of estate planning is the establishment of a trust. However, creating a trust is only part of the equation; funding that trust is equally vital. A trust that is not adequately funded can lead to complications, including the potential for probate, which can delay the distribution of assets and increase costs. By ensuring that a trust is properly funded, individuals can protect their assets, minimize expenses, and ultimately provide peace of mind for their loved ones. 
 
James shared: “Experience is our greatest teacher. experience is more valuable than titles, designations, or certificates hanging on a wall. there is no substitute for wisdom created by years of experience.”  
In conclusion, the importance of funding your trust cannot be overstated. Proper estate planning involves not only creating a trust but also ensuring that it is adequately funded to avoid the pitfalls of probate. By taking this crucial step, you can protect your assets, minimize costs, and provide peace of mind for your loved ones. As highlighted in the discussion with Jim, working with the right attorney can guide you through the process of funding your trust, ensuring that your estate is managed according to your wishes and that your heirs are shielded from unnecessary complications. Ultimately, proactive estate planning is an act of love for your family, allowing you to leave a legacy that is both meaningful and well-preserved. By taking the time to plan effectively, you can help safeguard your family’s future and maintain the bonds that matter most. 
Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/embed/tNWhrVS-luo
About James Kroshus 
James has devoted his life to assisting, clients, friends, and family by protecting their assets through insurance and estate planning. James has been in the world of finance and insurance since 1979. As James matured right along with his clients, James became painfully aware of the need that comes at the other end of rainbow, when remaining assets are passed to the next generation. His focus expanded beyond just protection and accumulation to the distribution of wealth after the passing of a loved one. With over 45 years of experience, James has nearly seen it all. 
 
For more information, go to: http://jameskroshus.com/ or call 775-233-2203 
Recent News & Interviews:

James Kroshus discussed Achieving Financial Peace of Mind https://authoritypresswire.com/james-kroshus-president-of-treasure-valley-retirement-shield-interviewed-on-the-influential-entrepreneurs-podcast-discussing-achieving-financial-peace-of-mind/

Interview with Patrick Cotter, Founder of Cotter Financial Group on the Influential Entrepreneurs Podcast Discussing Uncertainty in Retirement

Patrick Cotter discusses uncertainty in retirement 
Listen to the interview on the Business Innovators Radio Network: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/interview-with-patrick-cotter-founder-of-cotter-financial-group-discussing-navigating-uncertainty-in-retirement/
Patrick Cotter, founder of Cotter Financial Group, to discuss the critical topic of navigating uncertainty in retirement. Patrick emphasizes the importance of proactive financial planning, likening it to a spontaneous road trip where preparation can mitigate potential challenges. He highlights the various risks retirees may face, with longevity risk being the top priority. People will gain insights into how to identify and prioritize these risks, as well as strategies for creating a comprehensive retirement plan to handle unforeseen financial challenges.  
Retirement is often viewed as a well-deserved reward for years of hard work, a time to enjoy the fruits of one’s labor. However, as discussed in a recent episode of the podcast “Influential Entrepreneurs” featuring Patrick Cotter, retirees must recognize that the journey into retirement is fraught with uncertainties that demand careful planning and proactive strategies. The essence of a successful retirement lies not merely in accumulating wealth but in preparing for the unexpected challenges that may arise. 
One of the key takeaways from the podcast is the importance of addressing longevity risk—the potential for individuals to outlive their savings. Cotter emphasizes that longevity risk should be prioritized in retirement planning. This is because the financial landscape can change dramatically over time, influenced by various factors such as inflation, healthcare costs, and unexpected life events. To mitigate this risk, retirees must engage in thorough financial planning that includes realistic assessments of their future income needs and expenses. 
The analogy Cotter uses—comparing spontaneous road trips to retirement planning—illustrates the necessity of preparation. Just as one would not embark on a long journey without considering potential roadblocks and challenges, retirees should not enter retirement without a clear plan. A proactive approach means identifying various risks and developing strategies to address them before they become critical issues. This includes understanding how much income is needed during retirement and exploring various financial tools that can bridge any gaps in income, such as income annuities. 
Moreover, Cotter highlights the human side of retirement planning, which often gets overshadowed by financial considerations. Retirement is not solely about numbers; it encompasses personal desires, values, and the legacy one wishes to leave behind. This perspective is vital, as it encourages individuals to think beyond their immediate financial needs and consider how they want to be remembered. The quote from Mark Twain, “Everybody dies twice in their lifetime,” serves as a poignant reminder that legacy planning is an integral part of retirement preparation. Ensuring that loved ones are taken care of and that personal values are passed down can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose during retirement. 
Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/embed/kujh25lJ0Xc 
Patrick shared: “To effectively prepare for retirement challenges, retirees should engage with financial specialists who can provide tailored advice and sophisticated tools to create a comprehensive retirement strategy.”  
 
This collaboration can help individuals navigate the complexities of retirement planning, ensuring that they have a robust plan that addresses both financial and emotional aspects of this significant life transition. 
In summary, proactive planning for retirement challenges is not just a financial necessity; it is a holistic approach that encompasses one’s values, desires, and aspirations. By prioritizing longevity risk, utilizing available financial tools, and considering the human elements of retirement, individuals can embark on their retirement journey with confidence and peace of mind. The key is to take action today, ensuring that tomorrow’s uncertainties are met with preparedness and resilience. 
 
About Patrick Cotter 
Cotter Financial Group, LLC. is a community-based concierge-level retirement planning firm helping pre-retirees and retirees in the most critical phase of retirement known as the Retirement Red Zone. 10 years before and after retirement. They are a lifestyle-based planning firm. They do incorporate the numbers aspect while helping families and individuals plan for maximum enjoyment in retirement, while keeping in mind their values, relationships and more importantly how people wish to spend their precious time. So whether they are in retirement, on the verge of or just starting to prepare, they will help get them ready for what matters most and take action with more confidence. Focus areas are: 
 – Retirement Income Planning – safe, predictable and guaranteed 
– Legacy Planning – maximize to whom and what is left to heirs 
– Wealth Transfer – tax efficient transfer strategies  
– Estate Planning –  Wills, Trust and Asset Protection 
– Social Security Optimization – claiming strategy guidance 
– Wealth Management – safe and tax efficient strategies for inflation risk 
  
Learn More: www.cotterfinancialgroup.com  
Cotter Financial Group, LLC and Kinetic Investment Management, Inc. are two separate entities. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through individually licensed and appointed agents in all appropriate jurisdictions under Cotter Financial Group, LLC. Investment Advisory Services are offered through Kinetic Investment Management, Inc., a registered investment adviser. 
Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.
Recent News & Interviews:

Patrick Cotter discussed Proactive Retirement Planning https://authoritypresswire.com/interview-with-patrick-cotter-founder-of-cotter-financial-group-on-the-influential-entrepreneurs-podcast-discussing-proactive-retirement-planning/
Patrick Cotter discussed Emotional Well Being in Retirement https://authoritypresswire.com/interview-with-patrick-cotter-founder-of-cotter-financial-group-on-the-influential-entrepreneurs-podcast-discussing-emotional-well-being-in-retirement/ 

Dr. Calm Launches Concierge Wellbeing Program for High Achievers 

Physician-led longevity protocol introduces a calm-first pathway to clarity, resilience, and sustainable performance. 
La Jolla, California — 2026 — Physician and thought leader Dr. Kiran Dintyala—known publicly as “Dr. Calm”—today announced the launch of Health • Happiness • Harmony, a physician-led concierge wellbeing experience created for high-achieving adults seeking calm, clarity, and sustainable performance in the New Year. With a limited number of private client placements opening for 2026, the program delivers a high-touch, personalized pathway designed to help high performers feel grounded, focused, and resilient—without relying on hustle-driven wellness culture.
As stress, sleep disruption, and burnout continue to impact professionals, many high achievers report feeling wired, depleted, or disconnected despite outward success. The American Psychological Association’s Stress in America findings have repeatedly highlighted the widespread impact of societal stressors—reinforcing the need for approaches that address stress at its source rather than adding more tasks, tracking, or pressure.
At the core of Health • Happiness • Harmony is a simple premise: calm is not a personality trait—it’s a trainable nervous-system skill and the most powerful habit that promotes longevity. Instead of asking clients to do more, the program emphasizes restoring a felt sense of safety in the body as a foundation for better sleep, recovery, focus, emotional steadiness, and decision-making. Clients receive a curated, concierge-style experience that integrates nervous-system regulation, lifestyle optimization, and guided accountability—tailored to the realities of high-pressure lives.

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/embed/
“The fastest way to upgrade health and longevity isn’t doing more—it’s training the body, mind, and soul to feel safe again,” said Dr. Dintyala. “If calm isn’t something you have yet, no worries—it’s something you can train and strengthen. When the nervous system is regulated, everything works better.”
Designed for executives, entrepreneurs, physicians, and founders, Health • Happiness • Harmony emphasizes sustainability over intensity and clarity over performance-driven wellness trends. The program differentiates itself in a crowded wellbeing market through its physician-led foundation and calm-centered positioning—combining medical credibility with practical coaching, structured pathways, and proprietary frameworks that support both deep transformation and long-term vitality.
Dr. Kiran Dintyala is an Internal Medicine and Functional Medicine physician based in La Jolla, California, with extensive experience supporting high-performing adults. He is the author of Calm in the Midst of Chaos and the creator of The Happiness Therapy program. His work integrates science-informed education, personalized strategy, and emotionally safe, calm-first support—helping clients build resilience that lasts well beyond the New Year reset.
As the New Year prompts reflection and reinvention for many professionals, Health • Happiness • Harmony reflects a broader shift toward calm-first strategies for health, longevity, and success—positioning nervous-system regulation as an upstream lever for sustainable performance.
To learn more about Health • Happiness • Harmony, visit https://calmcapsule.stressfreerevolution.com/i-want-it-all 

James Kroshus, President of Treasure Valley Retirement Shield, Interviewed on The Influential Entrepreneurs Podcast, Discussing Achieving Financial Peace of Mind

James Kroshus discusses achieving financial peace of mind 
Listen to the interview on the Business Innovators Radio Network: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/interview-with-james-kroshus-president-of-treasure-valley-retirement-shield-discussing-achieving-financial-peace-of-mind/
In this episode of Influential Entrepreneurs, James Kroshus from Treasure Valley Retirement Shield is about achieving financial peace of mind. James, who has over 40 years of experience in the financial services industry, shared his journey and insights into helping clients secure their financial futures. 
He delved into the importance of having a strategy that offers market gains with downside protection, especially in today’s volatile economic environment. James emphasized the significance of not being overly attached to company stocks and the necessity of having a balanced approach to investments, particularly as one approachs retirement. 
In today’s rapidly changing financial landscape, the quest for peace of mind regarding investments has never been more critical. With the constant barrage of news about political unrest, economic fluctuations, and the looming specter of inflation, individuals often find themselves grappling with anxiety over their financial futures. As James Kroshus of Treasure Valley Retirement Shield eloquently articulated in a recent podcast, the challenge lies not only in the pursuit of wealth but in protecting that wealth from the myriad forces that threaten it. 
Investors today face a complex battlefield, where the “stealth tax” of inflation and the unpredictable nature of government policies can undermine even the most carefully crafted financial plans. Kroshus highlights the importance of recognizing these threats, which he metaphorically describes as a “field of weeds” that can choke off the potential for financial growth and security. This imagery serves as a powerful reminder that without proactive measures, one’s financial landscape can quickly become overgrown with challenges that hinder progress. 
The essence of achieving financial peace of mind lies in strategic planning that prioritizes both growth and protection. Kroshus emphasizes that a well-structured investment strategy can allow individuals to participate in market gains while simultaneously safeguarding against potential losses. Citing Warren Buffett’s famous investment rules—”Rule number one: never lose money. Rule number two: remember rule number one”—he underscores the necessity of a dual approach that seeks to mitigate risks while capitalizing on opportunities. 
Retirement Shield, the framework Kroshus advocates, embodies this philosophy by offering a solution that combines market participation with downside protection. This strategy not only aims to provide higher returns than traditional banking options but also serves as a buffer against the adverse effects of taxation and inflation. By employing such a strategy, investors can cultivate a sense of security, knowing that their hard-earned assets are shielded from an unpredictable economic environment. 
 
The Importance of Proactive Decision-Making 
One of the key takeaways from Kroshus’s insights is the importance of proactive decision-making in investment management. The tendency for individuals to react to market fluctuations rather than plan ahead can lead to hasty and often detrimental choices. By anticipating potential challenges and preparing for them in advance, investors can make informed decisions that align with their long-term financial goals. 
This proactive approach is essential not only for mitigating risks associated with inflation and taxation but also for fostering a mindset of confidence and control. When investors feel secure in their strategies, they are less likely to succumb to panic in the face of market volatility, allowing them to navigate their financial journeys with greater ease and clarity. 
In conclusion, the pursuit of peace of mind in investments is a multifaceted endeavor that requires a combination of awareness, strategic planning, and proactive decision-making. As highlighted by James Kroshus, understanding the potential threats to one’s financial well-being is the first step toward developing a robust retirement shield. By embracing strategies that prioritize both growth and protection, investors can cultivate a sense of security that allows them to thrive in an uncertain world. Ultimately, the goal is not merely to accumulate wealth but to safeguard it, ensuring financial peace of mind for oneself and future generations. 
 
James shared: “My vision expanded as I aged with my clients. It seems clarity rises to the surface with the wisdom created by years of experience” 
Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/embed/P6fStVFqiLs
About James Kroshus 
James has devoted his life to assisting clients, friends, and family by protecting their assets through insurance and estate planning. James has been in the world of finance and insurance since 1979. Over the years James became painfully aware of the need that comes at the other end of rainbow, when wealth is passed to the next generation. His focus expanded beyond just protection and accumulation to the distribution of that wealth. As important as certificates, degrees and awards hanging on a wall; nothing compares to years of experience. With over 45 years of experience James has nearly seen it all. 
For more information, go to: http://jameskroshus.com/ or call 775-233-2203 

Ascended Living Opens in Naples, Introducing a New Destination for Empowerment, Healing, and Self-Mastery

The new center brings a time-tested system of personal transformation centered on purpose, joy, and inner alignment to Southwest Florida 
Naples, Florida – 2025 
Tatiana Maxim, Founder and Certified Guide, announces the grand opening of Ascended Living, a new empowerment, healing, and self-mastery center in Naples, Florida. Positioned as a premier destination in Southwest Florida, Ascended Living introduces a structured, time-tested approach to personal transformation designed to support individuals in living lives rooted in purpose, joy, and sustainable well-being.
As stress, anxiety, and burnout continue to impact individuals across personal and professional spheres, many people are searching for approaches that go beyond temporary relief or surface-level solutions. Ascended Living was created to address this growing demand by offering a comprehensive system of higher-level self-mastery focused on inner alignment—supporting individuals in cultivating joy and purpose as stable inner states, independent of external circumstances.
The center’s philosophy draws on principles and practices refined over thousands of years and historically reserved for select circles. These teachings are now being made accessible to individuals who are committed to growth, self-awareness, and meaningful change. Ascended Living emphasizes clarity, alignment, and conscious development across physical, emotional, and energetic dimensions, guiding participants toward a lived experience of peace, purpose, and joy from within.
Unlike conventional self-improvement models, Ascended Living positions self-mastery as a practical and attainable discipline. Programs and sessions are designed to support participants in reducing stress, building emotional resilience, increasing focus and effectiveness, and navigating life and business challenges with greater ease and composure. At its highest expression, this work supports a life lived in joy, purpose, peace, and love—not as fleeting emotions, but as an embodied, inner-aligned way of being.
“At Ascended Living, we believe the only way to solve a problem is to outgrow it,” said Tatiana Maxim, Founder and Certified Guide. “Our work is centered on guiding growth and progression so people can live from a place of inner alignment—where joy, purpose, peace, and love are present regardless of what is happening in the outer world.” 
All practitioners at Ascended Living are trained and certified through the Modern Mystery School, ensuring a consistent standard of training, ethical practice, and depth of knowledge. The center offers a range of experiences including classes, talks, meditations, one-on-one healing sessions, and private discovery conversations, allowing individuals to engage with the system in a way that aligns with their personal goals and readiness.
The grand opening marks a significant addition to Naples’ wellness and personal development landscape. Ascended Living distinguishes itself through an elevated, intentional environment designed to support reflection, learning, and deep transformation. The center is intended for individuals who are seeking more than surface-level change and who are ready to engage in a disciplined path of self-mastery that leads to lasting fulfillment, purpose, and joy.
As interest in holistic well-being and conscious living continues to grow, Ascended Living represents a new option for the local community—one grounded in tradition, structure, and long-term impact rather than passing movements. Its opening reflects a broader cultural shift toward living with greater purpose and joy, anchored not in external achievement, but in inner alignment.
Ascended Living invites members of the Naples community and surrounding areas to explore upcoming classes, talks, and one-on-one modalities, or to schedule a discovery conversation to learn more about the center’s offerings. 
To learn more about Ascended Living or explore upcoming programs, visit https://www.getascended.com 
Follow Ascended Living on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ascendedlivingpath 
 

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