This year, the employee benefits landscape continues to evolve, with a heightened focus on financial well-being. Today, we explore the critical role financial benefits play in employees' lives, and I'm thrilled to have a seasoned expert with us who can shed light on this transformative shift. I'm Hilary Topper, and welcome to Hilary Topper on Air. Today, our guest is Frank Scalese, CEO of Blue Ocean Wealth Solutions, a MassMutual Firm. Here are the questions I asked: Frank, welcome to the show! To kick things off, can you give our listeners an overview of Blue Ocean Wealth Solutions and how it's "changing people’s lives,” as your mission statement suggests?   Before we delve deeper, could you share your background and expertise as the CEO of Blue Ocean Wealth Solutions?   Where did the name Blue Ocean come from? Did it come from living by the ocean or the Book Blue Ocean Strategy? Can you talk for a moment about that?   Now, workplace benefits are crucial, and Blue Ocean recognizes that. How does your approach to voluntary benefits enhance employees' financial well-being?   Now, Blue Ocean is a MassMutual firm. How does this partnership benefit your clients? Before we move on, I am so appreciative of our sponsors and must thank them. Please support our sponsors and tell them you heard about them on Hilary Topper on Air. Special thanks to the Russo Law Group,  Long Island's Signature Estate Planning, Elder Law, and Special Needs law firm and Buddha Bath a natural bath and body care company that offers a wide variety of products, including body butter, bath bombs, soap bars, and sugar scrubs.. With so much focus on a changing workplace, can you tell us how Blue Ocean is responding to the need for worker flexibility? And what impact does culture play in your firm with employee satisfaction and productivity?   How does Blue Ocean incorporate state-of-the-art technology to ensure a convenient and efficient client relationship? Thank you, Frank, for being on the show! I’d also like to thank our sponsors once more. The Russo Law Group, Long Island's Signature Estate Planning, Elder Law and Special Needs law firm. For additional info visit vjrussolaw.com. And Buddha Bath - a natural bath and body care company. For more info visit buddhabath.net. And last but not least, I’d like to thank our listeners for tuning in. For more information on Blue Ocean Wealth Solutions visit: https://www.blueocean.us.com/

Learning about STEM does so much for our youth. They learn about problem-solving, critical thinking, innovation, and entrepreneurship, build confidence, and boost their vocabulary. Learning about STEM exposes kids to various personal and career opportunities. All this and more play a pivotal role in enhancing Long Island's workforce. Today's guest on Hilary Topper on Air is Andrew Parton, co-steward of the Long Island STEM Hub and president of the Cradle of Aviation Museum. Andy is at the forefront of initiatives that bridge the gap between education and career readiness in STEM fields. One such initiative is the Career Conversations program, a cornerstone of the Long Island STEM Hub's efforts to empower students. About the Interview Listen as Andrew explains that Career Conversations is not just a program but a journey of exploration and discovery. Through Career Conversations, students engage with professionals from various STEM backgrounds, gaining insights into different career paths and the skills needed to succeed in those fields. These interactions not only inspire students but also provide invaluable mentorship and guidance as they navigate their educational and career journeys. Looking ahead, Andy shares his vision for the Career Conversations program and the Long Island STEM Hub. About the Long Island STEM Hub The Long Island STEM Hub is a collaborative initiative dedicated to advancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education and workforce development on Long Island, New York. Through strategic partnerships with schools, businesses, government agencies, and community organizations, the STEM Hub fosters a culture of innovation, creativity, and lifelong learning. For more information, visit www.listemhub.org.

There are people in this world who face unexpected challenges but can overcome them with resiliency and inspiration. Tricia Lieberman Scobey is one of those people. From Ruptured Brain Aneurysm to Survivor Tricia had a ruptured brain aneurysm in November 2020, at the height of the pandemic. She was experiencing some migraines before the rupture. Still, while watching television with her daughter, it suddenly occurred, and the next thing she remembers is being in the hospital and being told that she needed surgery. Three surgeries later, Tricia is thankfully here to tell her story. Be moved and motivated as you listen to her story. Find out what she went through and how she felt mentally, especially as an athlete and a runner. About Brain Aneurysms Did you know that 1 in every 50 people have a brain aneurysm? Ruptured brain aneurysms are fatal 50 percent of the time, and horribly, there is a rupture every 18 minutes. The Bee Foundation Tricia volunteers for The Bee Foundation, a group dedicated to research, awareness, advocacy, and support. Their goal is to live in a world where brain aneurysms can be found before rupture so that lives will be saved and the devastation they cause eliminated. To get in touch with Tricia go to https://www.facebook.com/tricia.scobey and send her a direct message. Or, get in touch with The Bee Foundation at https://www.thebeefoundation.org/.

In life, many of us may face the challenge of a loved one being diagnosed with a life-changing disease. Unfortunately, it happens all the time. How do you handle it? My dad had Alzheimer's disease. It was a slow progression in the beginning, but when he needed to go into assisted living and eventually into a group home, I wasn't sure how we would pay for it. It was so expensive, and I thought he would run through his money fast before I had to dip it into my pocket. What Happens When Your Spouse or Parent Has a Life-Changing Disease? On today's show of Hilary Topper on Air, Diana Lattanzio, partner at The Russo Law Group, talks with us about how to deal with situations like the one above. Diana experienced this both with her grandfather and with her father, who currently has Parkinson's disease. Diana discusses what the process is to apply for Medicaid to meet his ongoing needs. She also talks about how families can proactively plan for the legal aspects of long-term care, considering the potential impact of a life-changing diagnosis. Diana Lattanzio also answers the following questions: What key advice do you have for individuals who find themselves suddenly responsible for making important legal decisions on behalf of a loved one with a serious medical condition? In your experience, what are common misconceptions about Elder Law, and how can individuals better understand the support it provides? Could you share a success story or case that highlights the positive impact of proper legal planning in the face of life-changing health challenges? About Diana Lattazio Diana Lattanzio is a Partner at Russo Law Group, P.C.  of Garden City, Islandia, and Lido Beach, New York. She brings over 20 years of experience to Russo Law Group, P.C., where she focuses on elder law, Medicaid planning, estate planning, special needs planning, and real estate. Diana is available to assist Italian-speaking clients. A compassionate person by nature, Diana’s interest in Elder Law was inspired by her close relationship with her maternal grandparents. She appreciated the sacrifices they made coming to America for a better life, together with their wisdom and the life lessons they imparted to the rest of the family. When Diana’s grandfather required home care, Diana’s mother provided it. Diana saw firsthand the challenges caregivers and elders face and vowed to dedicate her career to helping families during times of crisis. She is committed to minimizing the stress her clients are going through while providing sound legal advice to protect their assets against the high cost of long-term care. Diana earned her B.S., Magna Cum Laude, from St. John’s University and her J.D. from the Hofstra University School of Law. She is licensed to practice in the states of New York and New Jersey and is also admitted to the United States Supreme Court. How to Reach Diana Lattazio? Diana can be reached at The Russo Law Group by going to the web here: https://vjrussolaw.com/staff-member/diana-lattanzio/ or calling 1-800-680-1717 and asking for Diana Lattanzio. Special thanks to our sponsors for making this show and all the shows this season possible: The Russo Law Group, P.C. -  Long Island's Signature Elder Law, Special Needs and Estate Planning law firm. For additional info visit vjrussolaw.com. Buddha Bath - a natural bath and body care company. For more info visit buddhabath.net.  

Did you know that Nassau County, NY, property owners pay more than 4x more in property taxes than the average American? Why are we paying so much? Where do our property taxes go? And what can we do about it? You can find out on today's podcast as I interview Jeff Gold of the Gold Law Firm. Jeff will answer the following questions: Where are our taxes going? Why do we pay so much more in taxes than everywhere else? How does The Gold Law Firm assist Nassau County residents in challenging property tax assessments, potentially saving them thousands? Should someone file a grievance? If so, what is the process of filing an assessment or tax grievance? How often should you file a grievance? Why is it a significant step for property owners, and what does it involve? Is it hard to file by yourself or do you really need a lawyer? How much does it cost? When Jeff told me that it would cost only $250, I shook my head and told him it was a "no brainer" to hire his firm. He talked about his facebook group, which is free to join and offers valuable information. Many people ask questions on the page and Jeff and his team handle all inquiries. The facebook page is: https://www.facebook.com/groups/389792057856742. If you are interested in filing a grievance in Nassau County, NY, go to https://jeffgoldflatrategrievances.com/.

Hydration is an essential aspect of athletic performance, enabling athletes to push their limits and reach their full potential. But what goes into creating the perfect hydration solution? In this episode of, Hilary Topper on Air - the endurance sports edition, Hilary speaks with David Balega, President and CEO of The Right Stuff. About the Interview Listen as David sheds light on the inspiration behind its development, highlighting the need for a hydration solution that surpasses traditional options in the market. Learn about the science-backed advantages that make The Right Stuff stand out, emphasizing its role in combating dehydration and sustaining optimal performance during intense physical activities. Hilary and David discuss the key ingredients or components found in The Right Stuff hydration. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how these elements contribute to the solution's performance-enhancing qualities, adding a layer of transparency to the product. David also shares guidelines and recommendations for usage, ensuring that athletes can maximize the benefits of this innovative hydration solution. About The Right Stuff The Right Stuff, led by President and CEO David Balega, stands at the forefront of sports hydration, committed to reshaping how athletes approach performance fueling. With a focus on science-backed innovation, The Right Stuff offers a hydration solution that transcends conventional options, empowering athletes to achieve peak performance. Rigorous scientific studies support our formula, providing transparency about the key ingredients that set us apart. Trusted by notable athletes and sports teams, The Right Stuff is versatile, catering to individuals across various sports and disciplines. To learn more about its unparalleled hydration solution and to place an order, visit https://therightstuff-usa.com/.

Life is a rollercoaster ride, filled with unexpected twists and turns. Sometimes, it takes us on great highs where we feel invincible, and other times, it plunges us into depths that test our resilience. My journey has been no different, particularly in dealing with the specter of aneurysms that looms over my family's medical history. Loss When I was a teenager, I lost my grandfather to an aneurysm. About six years ago, I lost my sister to an aneurysm. It was a tough time for us all. The suddenness of their departures left a void in our lives that seemed impossible to fill. But, as I navigated through the grief, I realized that their spirit lived on in me, and their memories became a source of strength and courage. Aneurysm Recently, I discovered that I too have an aneurysm. I have chosen to see this diagnosis not as a tragedy but as an opportunity. An opportunity to prioritize my health, to live more mindfully, and to cherish every moment. Instead of letting fear dictate my life, I am using it as a tool for positive transformation. Listen in to my new podcast as I talk about what happened and what's next. I promise, it's a story filled with hope, love, and optimism. After all, life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass; it's about learning to dance in the rain! P.S. Don't forget to get a copy of my book on Black Friday for 50% off! Go to https://cardinalpub.com/product/from-couch-potato-to-endurance-athlete/. Use the code BLACKFRIDAY23 at checkout. This is only for one day only!

In this episode of Hilary Topper on Air, join Hilary as she speaks with two remarkable individuals who are redefining the boundaries of athletic achievement and philanthropy. Meet Jack Thompson, a professional Australian cyclist, and Yuri Hauswald, Elite Athlete Manager at GU Energy Labs. About the Interview Hear from Jack, a record-breaking cyclist with numerous Guinness World Records and World Firsts, and Yuri, the Elite Athlete Manager at GU Energy Labs. They both bring a wealth of experience and passion to the discussion. In 2022, Jack raised an astounding $500,000 for non-profits as part of his mission to become the first cyclist in space. We unravel the details of this incredible initiative and the profound impact it had on the charitable causes he supported. Additionally, Jack shares insights into overcoming drug addiction, offering advice for others facing similar challenges. Yuri discusses the innovative approach of focusing on "complete" athletes who not only excel in their sports but also champion charitable causes. We explore the alignment of this approach with GU's charitable foundation, GU Gives, and Yuri's inspiration for this shift. Yuri shares insights into the criteria used to identify athletes with a genuine commitment to making a positive impact on society. We learn about the selection process for partnerships that go beyond athletic prowess, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach. About Jack Thompson A professional ultra-cyclist born in Perth Western Australia, Jack relocated to Girona, Spain in 2019. Referred to in the media as ‘the most extreme cyclist on earth,’ Jack pushes the boundary of what is humanly possible on a bike, exploring the limits of human physiology both physically and mentally. Jack holds multiple Guinness world records and the fastest known times (fkt’s) around the globe and is an active and passionate advocate for mental health disorders. About GU Energy Labs GU is a team of problem-solvers and makers guided by their purpose to nourish and inspire everyone to experience the joy of movement in whatever form they choose. Their hydration, energy, and recovery products are specifically formulated to empower you to challenge yourself and achieve your personal goals while having the most fun possible!

How have extreme weather events related to climate change affected triathlons and other endurance races? In this episode of Hilary Topper on Air - the endurance sports edition, Hilary interviews retired healthcare professional, environmental economics enthusiast, and amateur triathlete, Michael Pitzer. About the Interview Extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change, have become more frequent and intense. For endurance races like triathlons, this means unpredictable conditions, ranging from scorching heat to severe storms. Organizers must adapt courses and implement safety measures, while athletes face increased health risks and performance challenges. The effects are far-reaching, impacting both the logistics of races and the well-being of participants. Athlete health is also a top priority, and exposure to extreme weather can lead to heat-related illnesses and other health issues. To address this, race organizers are implementing heat mitigation strategies, adjusting race timings, and providing better medical support. However, as climate change intensifies, a collective effort is needed to explore sustainable solutions to ensure the longevity of the sport and the well-being of athletes. How Triathletes Can Help The discipline and determination ingrained in triathlon training can be channeled into environmental action. Setting goals, tracking progress, and celebrating achievements create a sense of accomplishment. Athletes can apply this mindset to sustainability goals, making conscious choices in their daily lives and inspiring others to join the movement. In both racing and combating climate change, preparation and knowledge are paramount. Understanding the impacts of climate change empowers individuals to make informed choices. Taking actionable steps, such as supporting sustainable initiatives and advocating for policy changes, contributes to the broader effort. Education is the foundation for resilience, enabling individuals to face challenges head-on and drive meaningful change. To contact Michael and learn more about triathlon in a changing climate reach out to us at lisa@hjmt.com.

The mental strength and mindset essential for success in marathon training and on race day can be the deciding factor for an athlete's performance. How can one discover delight in the process? If you're a marathon enthusiast or aspiring to conquer the 26.2-mile distance, tune into this episode of Hilary Topper on Air - The Endurance Sports Edition, as Hilary speaks with Denise Sauriol, affectionately known as the Marathon Whisperer. With 29 years of marathon experience and an incredible record of 140 marathon finishes, including all seven continents, Denise has a wealth of wisdom to share. About the Interview Denise briefly introduces herself and shares some insights into her remarkable journey spanning nearly three decades and 140 marathons. Denise's marathon journey doesn't stop with her personal achievements. As a coach, she has guided thousands of runners, helping them accomplish their marathon dreams. Denise shares valuable strategies and techniques she employs to help her clients develop a positive and resilient mindset throughout their marathon journey. Denise sheds light on how she helps her clients appreciate their own accomplishments and maintain a healthy perspective on their progress. Learn also about her book, "Me, You & 26.2 - Coach Denise's Guide to Get YOU to YOUR First Marathon". Finally, Denise provides insights into how she supports her clients in staying motivated and overcoming obstacles throughout their marathon training. Denise shares practical tips and tricks to help her clients prepare physically and mentally for race day, ensuring a successful and enjoyable marathon experience. Contact Denise Sauriol To learn more about Denise Sauriol, her book, and coaching services, visit www.run-for-change.com. So, if you're ready to embark on your own marathon journey or seek guidance to reach your marathon goals, you'll find valuable resources and inspiration through Denise, the Marathon Whisperer.