Épisodes

  • Culture, Cash, and Identity: How Our Backgrounds Shape Our Financial Lives
    Jul 15 2025
    Welcome to Novem Nexus: Navigating Your Financial Narrative, where we explore the various topics of finance, the stories, strategies, and psychology behind our financial decisions with host Greg Wagner as we dive into the intersection between finance and the human experience.
    The financial landscape is saturated with advice and rules. Novem Nexus aims to stand out by focusing on the underlying motivations, beliefs, and emotions that drive our financial behavior. We explore not only the what and how of finance but, more importantly, the why. At Novem Group, we believe that finance is not just about numbers and equations; it's about real people with real emotions. That's what this podcast is all about: understanding the reasons behind our financial decisions and uncovering the narratives that shape our financial lives.
    Novem Nexus is more than just a podcast. Connect with us on social media, share your experiences, and join the conversation. Together, let's navigate our financial narratives with confidence. Welcome to Novem Nexus: Navigating Your Financial Narrative.
    Episode 18: “Culture, Cash, and Identity: How Our Backgrounds Shape Our Financial Lives”
    Have you ever wondered why you handle money the way you do—or where those habits come from? In this episode, Greg Wagner explores how our cultural backgrounds shape our financial behavior, often in ways we don’t consciously realize. From communal saving circles and family-first mindsets to rugged financial individualism, Greg unpacks the emotional and cultural tensions we experience when traditional values collide with modern financial systems.
    We explore how religious beliefs, inherited values, and immigration pressures affect everything from budgeting to investing. Greg dives into how Millennials and Gen Z are rewriting money scripts with a blend of tradition and tech—and why redefining wealth on your own terms is one of the most empowering things you can do.
    Whether you grew up in a home where money was taboo or in a culture where sharing wealth is a responsibility, this episode will prompt reflection on what money really means to you—and how to bring your financial habits into alignment with your identity.
    Greg Wagner is an Investment Adviser Representative with Novem Group, an SEC-Registered Investment Adviser firm. All opinions expressed by Greg Wagner or any guests are solely their own and do not reflect the views of Novem Group. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute tax, investment, or other financial advice, and is not endorsement of any securities discussed, and listeners should not rely on it for their financial decisions.
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    17 min
  • Charitable Giving and Philanthropy: Making a Financial Impact
    Jul 1 2025
    Welcome to Novem Nexus: Navigating Your Financial Narrative, where we explore the various topics of finance, the stories, strategies, and psychology behind our financial decisions with host Greg Wagner as we dive into the intersection between finance and human experience.
    The financial landscape is saturated with advice and rules. Novem Nexus aims to stand out by focusing on the underlying motivations, beliefs, and emotions that drive our financial behavior. We explore not only the "what" and "how" of finance but, more importantly, the "why." At Novem Group, we believe that finance is not just about numbers and equations; it's about real people with real emotions. That’s what this podcast is all about: understanding the reasons behind our financial decisions and uncovering the narratives that shape our financial lives.
    In Episode 17 of Season 2, “Charitable Giving and Philanthropy: Making a Financial Impact”, we delve into the emotional and strategic dimensions of charitable giving. Greg explores why generosity is more than a transaction—it’s a powerful reflection of identity, values, and purpose. From childhood influences and emotional triggers to tax strategies and legacy planning, this episode uncovers how and why we give. Whether you're donating time, money, or energy, Greg challenges listeners to rethink their approach to giving—not as obligation, but as an act of alignment and empowerment. Thought-provoking and heartfelt, this episode encourages you to give with intention, not impulse, and to ensure your generosity mirrors the world you want to help shape.
    Novem Nexus is more than just a podcast. Connect with us on social media, share your experiences, and join the conversation. Together, let's navigate our financial narratives with confidence.
    Welcome to Novem Nexus: Navigating Your Financial Narrative.

    Greg Wagner is an Investment Adviser Representative with Novem Group, an SEC-Registered Investment Adviser firm. All opinions expressed by Greg Wagner or any guests are solely their own and do not reflect the views of Novem Group. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute tax, investment, or other financial advice, and is not endorsement of any securities discussed, and listeners should not rely on it for their financial decisions.
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    14 min
  • The Psychology of Taxes: Avoidance, Resentment, and Empowered Planning
    Jun 23 2025
    Welcome to Novem Nexus: Navigating Your Financial Narrative, where we explore the various topics of finance, the stories, strategies, and psychology behind our financial decisions with host Greg Wagner as we dive into the intersection between finance and the human experience.
    The financial landscape is saturated with advice and rules. Novem Nexus aims to stand out by focusing on the underlying motivations, beliefs, and emotions that drive our financial behavior. We explore not only the what and how of finance but, more importantly, the why. At Novem Group, we believe that finance is not just about numbers and equations; it's about real people with real emotions. That's what this podcast is all about: understanding the reasons behind our financial decisions and uncovering the narratives that shape our financial lives.
    Novem Nexus is more than just a podcast. Connect with us on social media, share your experiences, and join the conversation. Together, let's navigate our financial narratives with confidence. Welcome to Novem Nexus: Navigating Your Financial Narrative.

    Episode 16: “The Psychology of Taxes: Avoidance, Resentment, and Empowered Planning”

    In this episode, Greg Wagner explores the emotional undercurrent of tax season—why taxes trigger such strong feelings of avoidance, resentment, and shame, and how those reactions impact our financial decisions. This isn’t just a discussion about Roth IRAs and tax-loss harvesting—though those come up too—it’s an invitation to examine how we relate to control, power, and fairness through the lens of taxation. Greg shares personal stories and practical strategies for creating a tax-savvy investment approach that reflects both your values and long-term goals. The result? Not just better returns, but a sense of agency and peace of mind.
    Greg Wagner is an Investment Adviser Representative with Novem Group, an SEC-Registered Investment Adviser firm. All opinions expressed by Greg Wagner or any guests are solely their own and do not reflect the views of Novem Group. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute tax, investment, or other financial advice, and is not endorsement of any securities discussed, and listeners should not rely on it for their financial decisions.
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    19 min
  • Student Loans and Financial Planning for Higher Education
    Jun 3 2025
    Welcome to Novem Nexus: Navigating Your Financial Narrative, where we explore the various topics of finance, the stories, strategies, and psychology behind our financial decisions with host Greg Wagner as we dive into the intersection between finance and the human experience.
    The financial landscape is saturated with advice and rules, Novem Nexus aims to stand out by focusing on the underlying motivations, beliefs, and emotions that drive our financial behavior. We explore not only the 'what' and 'how' of finance but, more importantly, the 'why.' At Novem Group, we believe that finance is not just about numbers and equations; it's about real people with real emotions. That's what this podcast is all about: understanding the reasons behind our financial decisions and uncovering the narratives that shape our financial lives.
    Novem Nexus is more than just a podcast. Connect with us on social media, share your experiences, and join the conversation. Together, let's navigate our financial narratives with confidence. Welcome to Novem Nexus: Navigating Your Financial Narrative.
    Greg Wagner is an Investment Adviser Representative with Novem Group, an SEC-Registered Investment Adviser firm. All opinions expressed by Greg Wagner or any guests are solely their own and do not reflect the views of Novem Group. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute tax, investment, or other financial advice, and is not endorsement of any securities discussed, and listeners should not rely on it for their financial decisions.
    In Episode 15 of Season 2, "Student Loans and Financial Planning for Higher Education," we explore strategies for planning and managing the costs of higher education. We cover everything from estimating the true cost of college and leveraging savings plans like 529s, to navigating the complexities of financial aid and scholarships.
    The first segment focuses on proactive planning for college expenses, emphasizing the importance of accurate cost estimation, savings strategies, and financial aid options. The second segment delves into managing student loans, detailing the differences between federal and private loans, repayment strategies, and avoiding common pitfalls.
    In the final segment, we discuss the long-term financial implications of student loans, including their impact on credit, homeownership, retirement planning, and investing. This episode offers listeners practical guidance for managing the financial side of higher education while maintaining long-term financial health.
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    14 min
  • The Financial Implications of Climate Change
    May 20 2025
    Welcome to Novem Nexus: Navigating Your Financial Narrative, where we explore the various topics of finance, the stories, strategies, and psychology behind our financial decisions with host Greg Wagner as we dive into the intersection between finance and the human experience.
    The financial landscape is saturated with advice and rules, Novem Nexus aims to stand out by focusing on the underlying motivations, beliefs, and emotions that drive our financial behavior. We explore not only the 'what' and 'how' of finance but, more importantly, the 'why.' At Novem Group, we believe that finance is not just about numbers and equations; it's about real people with real emotions. That's what this podcast is all about: understanding the reasons behind our financial decisions and uncovering the narratives that shape our financial lives.
    Novem Nexus is more than just a podcast. Connect with us on social media, share your experiences, and join the conversation. Together, let's navigate our financial narratives with confidence. Welcome to Novem Nexus: Navigating Your Financial Narrative.
    Greg Wagner is an Investment Adviser Representative with Novem Group, an SEC-Registered Investment Adviser firm. All opinions expressed by Greg Wagner or any guests are solely their own and do not reflect the views of Novem Group. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute tax, investment, or other financial advice, and is not endorsement of any securities discussed, and listeners should not rely on it for their financial decisions.
    In Episode 14 of Season 2, "The Financial Implications of Climate Change," we examine how climate change impacts industries, economies, and investment strategies. We discuss the long-term effects on global economies and the financial challenges businesses and governments face due to extreme weather events and regulatory changes.
    In the first segment, we focus on the economic impact of climate change, including its effects on various industries and the regulatory responses aimed at mitigating environmental damage. The second segment dives into investing in a changing climate, highlighting the rise of ESG investing, risks to traditional investments, and opportunities in green technology and renewable energy sectors.
    The final segment covers how individuals can adapt their financial strategies for climate resilience, including portfolio diversification, insurance planning, and long-term retirement considerations. This episode offers listeners insights into navigating the financial challenges posed by climate change while seeking investment opportunities in the transition to a more sustainable future.
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    17 min
  • Maximizing Employee Benefits: From 401(k)s to Stock Options
    May 6 2025
    Welcome to Novem Nexus: Navigating Your Financial Narrative, where we explore the various topics of finance, the stories, strategies, and psychology behind our financial decisions with host Greg Wagner as we dive into the intersection between finance and the human experience.
    The financial landscape is saturated with advice and rules, Novem Nexus aims to stand out by focusing on the underlying motivations, beliefs, and emotions that drive our financial behavior. We explore not only the 'what' and 'how' of finance but, more importantly, the 'why.' At Novem Group, we believe that finance is not just about numbers and equations; it's about real people with real emotions. That's what this podcast is all about: understanding the reasons behind our financial decisions and uncovering the narratives that shape our financial lives.
    Novem Nexus is more than just a podcast. Connect with us on social media, share your experiences, and join the conversation. Together, let's navigate our financial narratives with confidence. Welcome to Novem Nexus: Navigating Your Financial Narrative.
    Greg Wagner is an Investment Adviser Representative with Novem Group, an SEC-Registered Investment Adviser firm. All opinions expressed by Greg Wagner or any guests are solely their own and do not reflect the views of Novem Group. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute tax, investment, or other financial advice, and is not endorsement of any securities discussed, and listeners should not rely on it for their financial decisions.
    In Episode 13 of Season 2, "Maximizing Employee Benefits: From 401(k)s to Stock Options," we explore how employees can take full advantage of workplace benefits to boost their financial health and build long-term wealth. We cover a wide range of benefits, from retirement plans and stock options to health insurance and flexible spending accounts.
    In the first segment, we discuss retirement benefits like 401(k)s, employer matches, and additional options such as 403(b) and 457 plans. We also explore the potential of HSAs as a powerful tool for retirement planning. In the second segment, we dive into stock options, ESOPs, and equity compensation, highlighting their benefits and the risks associated with equity concentration.
    The final segment focuses on additional employee benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability coverage, and FSAs. We provide strategies for making the most of these offerings to enhance financial well-being and minimize costs. This episode offers listeners practical advice on maximizing their workplace benefits to achieve financial stability and growth.
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    16 min
  • The Role of Insurance in Wealth Protection
    Apr 22 2025
    Welcome to Novem Nexus: Navigating Your Financial Narrative, where we explore the various topics of finance, the stories, strategies, and psychology behind our financial decisions with host Greg Wagner as we dive into the intersection between finance and the human experience.
    The financial landscape is saturated with advice and rules, Novem Nexus aims to stand out by focusing on the underlying motivations, beliefs, and emotions that drive our financial behavior. We explore not only the 'what' and 'how' of finance but, more importantly, the 'why.' At Novem Group, we believe that finance is not just about numbers and equations; it's about real people with real emotions. That's what this podcast is all about: understanding the reasons behind our financial decisions and uncovering the narratives that shape our financial lives.
    Novem Nexus is more than just a podcast. Connect with us on social media, share your experiences, and join the conversation. Together, let's navigate our financial narratives with confidence. Welcome to Novem Nexus: Navigating Your Financial Narrative.
    Greg Wagner is an Investment Adviser Representative with Novem Group, an SEC-Registered Investment Adviser firm. All opinions expressed by Greg Wagner or any guests are solely their own and do not reflect the views of Novem Group. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute tax, investment, or other financial advice, and is not endorsement of any securities discussed, and listeners should not rely on it for their financial decisions.
    In Episode 12 of Season 2, "The Role of Insurance in Wealth Protection," we explore the crucial role of various types of insurance in securing financial stability and preserving wealth. We discuss how life, health, and property insurance are integral components of a comprehensive financial plan, ensuring that individuals and families are protected against unexpected events.
    The first segment focuses on life insurance, detailing the different types and their role in providing financial security and wealth building. The second segment covers health and disability insurance, highlighting their importance in income protection and managing medical expenses.
    In the final segment, we delve into property and liability insurance, including homeowners, auto, and umbrella policies, as well as business insurance for entrepreneurs. We provide actionable strategies for choosing the right coverage and ensuring that assets are protected.
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    25 min
  • Generational Wealth: Strategies for Building and Maintaining Wealth Across Generations
    Apr 8 2025
    Welcome to Novem Nexus: Navigating Your Financial Narrative, where we explore the various topics of finance, the stories, strategies, and psychology behind our financial decisions with host Greg Wagner as we dive into the intersection between finance and the human experience.

    The financial landscape is saturated with advice and rules, Novem Nexus aims to stand out by focusing on the underlying motivations, beliefs, and emotions that drive our financial behavior. We explore not only the 'what' and 'how' of finance but, more importantly, the 'why.' At Novem Group, we believe that finance is not just about numbers and equations; it's about real people with real emotions. That's what this podcast is all about: understanding the reasons behind our financial decisions and uncovering the narratives that shape our financial lives.

    Novem Nexus is more than just a podcast. Connect with us on social media, share your experiences, and join the conversation. Together, let's navigate our financial narratives with confidence. Welcome to Novem Nexus: Navigating Your Financial Narrative.

    Greg Wagner is an Investment Adviser Representative with Novem Group, an SEC-Registered Investment Adviser firm. All opinions expressed by Greg Wagner or any guests are solely their own and do not reflect the views of Novem Group. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute tax, investment, or other financial advice, and is not endorsement of any securities discussed, and listeners should not rely on it for their financial decisions.

    In Episode 11 of Season 2, "Generational Wealth: Strategies for Building and Maintaining Wealth Across Generations," we dive into best practices for creating and preserving wealth that lasts. We discuss investment strategies, multiple income streams, and risk management as essential components of building wealth that can be passed down through generations.

    In the first segment, we focus on building generational wealth through diversified investments and income sources. In the second segment, we explore methods for maintaining and preserving wealth, such as estate planning, tax minimization strategies, and financial education for heirs.

    The final segment emphasizes ensuring a smooth wealth transfer, addressing the importance of comprehensive wealth transfer plans, managing family dynamics, and incorporating philanthropy into legacy planning. This episode equips listeners with practical steps to secure and grow wealth across generations while ensuring a smooth and meaningful transfer.
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    16 min