Author Archives: Jason Murry

Offense is the Best Defense: Financial Planning for Martial Arts Leaders

Just as a disciplined offensive strategy can function as defense in a fight, proactive financial planning serves as protection and forward momentum for martial arts school owners and business leaders.

Many instructors and entrepreneurs launch with passion, but passion without structure creates vulnerability. In the U.S., survival data underscores the stakes: the SBA Office of Advocacy reports an average five-year survival rate of about 49% for new employer establishments (1994–2019), and a ten-year survival rate around 34%.[1] BLS reporting also highlights the long-horizon reality: only about one-third of establishments in a 2013 birth cohort were still operating a decade later.[2]

Offense Is Defense: Why Financial Planning Matters

In martial arts, strong offense can preempt an opponent’s attack. In business, proactive financial planning is often the difference between absorbing impact and being knocked out. Business survival data shows that early years are volatile and long-term survival is not guaranteed—reinforcing why leaders must build both protection and a growth system.[1] [2]

This principle is especially visible in the martial arts industry through the pandemic era. Some schools did nothing and closed, many survived by defending, and a smaller group adapted aggressively and grew by going “on offense” during disruption.[3] Industry commentary and reports also describe broad closures and severe pressure on dojos during lockdowns, highlighting the need for reserves and systems.[4]

Financial planning is not only about keeping the doors open; it’s also about leadership stability. Leaders operating under constant financial stress can burn out, make reactive decisions, and reduce the quality of instruction and culture over time. Offense-as-defense means you plan ahead so you don’t lead from panic.

The Financial Fight Framework

Use this “Financial Fight” structure to compare leaders who operate with a plan versus those who do not:

Financial Stance (Protection)

Your stance is your base: protection, structure, and preparedness. If you lose your stance, everything else collapses.

  • Life Insurance (family protection + continuity)
  • Legal Protection (entity structure, liability strategy)
  • Estate Planning (will, trust, succession planning)

Financial Movement (Stability)

Movement keeps you balanced. In finances, movement is cash flow discipline, debt control, and credit strength.

  • Debt Elimination
  • Credit Repair
  • Debt Leveraging (strategic, ROI-driven borrowing)

Financial Attack (Wealth & Legacy)

Attack is where you build capacity: savings, retirement strategy, and legacy planning for the next generation.

  • Savings (reserves + opportunity capital)
  • Retirement
  • Legacy Planning

Financial Stance: Protect Your Base (Defense)

Life Insurance & Business Continuity

If a dojo owner, partner, or key leader dies or becomes incapacitated, the business can enter a rapid destabilization cycle: revenue disruption, unpaid obligations, and loss of operational leadership. One widely used continuity tool is key person insurance— a life policy purchased by the business on a vital individual, with the company as beneficiary, designed to protect against financial loss.[5] Guardian also describes key person coverage as a tool to help businesses recover from the financial loss caused by the death of an owner, partner, or essential employee and to provide time to find/train replacements.[6]

Legal Protection (Structure & Liability)

Martial arts training is inherently physical. Risk exists even with excellent safety protocols. Legal structure (LLC/corporation, proper contracts and waivers, policies) and appropriate insurance coverage help prevent a single event from becoming a financial knockout. Planning your legal posture is part of a disciplined stance.

Estate Planning & Succession

Estate planning is not merely a personal matter; for business owners it is operational continuity. Gallup’s research on succession highlights that many small-business owners lack formal succession planning, and the picture differs sharply between employer firms and nonemployer businesses—underscoring how frequently owners are unsure what happens next.[7] The SBA Office of Advocacy also emphasizes survival dynamics over time—reinforcing why business owners should not assume longevity without structure.[1]

Financial Movement: Footwork for Stability (Debt & Credit)

Debt Elimination

High-interest consumer debt and reactive borrowing reduce strategic flexibility. When debt payments rise, decision-making becomes constrained; marketing, hiring, equipment upgrades, and even basic retention systems get sacrificed. Eliminating “bad debt” restores footwork and control.

Credit Repair & Access to Capital

For small businesses, personal credit is often inseparable from business credit. Research indicates that most small businesses rely on personal credit in some capacity, and personal credit scores can influence access to financing and underwriting decisions.[8] A frequently cited SBA-commissioned report (2006) is referenced by multiple outlets as finding that a large share of banks used owner credit scores in underwriting for small business loans; this illustrates why credit strength is a practical business asset, not vanity.[9]

Personal Guarantees Are Common

Personal guarantees are a defining characteristic of small business borrowing. The Federal Reserve Small Business Credit Survey (employer firms) reports that a majority of firms used personal guarantees as collateral to secure debt.[10] A Bankrate explainer citing Federal Reserve Small Business Credit Survey findings also notes that personal guarantees are common among small businesses seeking credit.[11]

Debt Leveraging (Strategic Borrowing)

Debt is a tool when it is strategic. Leaders who borrow with a clear ROI plan—expansion timing, marketing conversion systems, staffing, retention—use leverage to build capacity. Leaders without a plan borrow reactively, and interest becomes the chokehold.

Financial Attack: Savings, Retirement, Legacy (Offense)

Savings & Reserves

Reserves are the difference between responding calmly and panicking under pressure. Disruptions happen: seasonal enrollment dips, facility issues, unexpected health events, and economic tightening. Schools with a financial system and reserves can continue operating while adapting. Pandemic-era martial arts industry accounts emphasize this difference between businesses that perished, businesses that survived, and businesses that expanded.[3]

Retirement Planning: Do Not Make Your Dojo Your Only Exit Strategy

Many owners delay retirement planning while building the business. SCORE’s retirement infographic reports that 34% of entrepreneurs have no retirement savings plan for themselves, and it also reflects the risk of relying on a future business sale as the primary retirement strategy.[12] SCORE’s press release about the infographic reiterates these concerns and frames the urgency for business owners to prepare for retirement in a disciplined way.[13]

Legacy Planning

Legacy planning goes beyond “what happens if I die” and extends into stewardship: what happens when I want to step back, transfer leadership, or expand into new ventures. Gallup’s work on succession planning illustrates how often owners lack formal plans, particularly among nonemployer businesses, which make up a massive share of U.S. firms.[7] Offense in this area means you choose your transition instead of being forced into one.

With a Plan vs. Without a Plan (General Case Study Contrast)

Martial Arts Leader / Business Owner With a Plan

  • Builds a protection “stance”: life insurance, legal posture, and estate/succession documentation.[5][7]
  • Maintains disciplined movement: debt elimination strategy, credit improvement, and intentional leverage.
  • Understands capital realities: personal credit and personal guarantees often influence funding access.[8][10]
  • Builds reserves and plans retirement beyond the business alone.[12]
  • Can adapt during disruption, and is positioned to grow when others retreat.[3]

Martial Arts Leader / Business Owner Without a Plan

  • Is exposed: one lawsuit, health event, or shutdown can become catastrophic without preparation.
  • Borrowing becomes reactive; interest payments reduce strategic capacity and amplify stress.
  • Credit weakness limits options; personal guarantees can increase personal risk when debt is taken on without a plan.[10]
  • Retirement becomes “someday” and often defaults to “I’ll sell the business,” despite real market uncertainty.[12]
  • Legacy and succession remain undefined—leaving the future of the dojo, clients, staff, and family uncertain.[7]

This is why the “Offense is Defense” philosophy matters: you don’t wait for crisis to force a lesson. You train the system ahead of time.

Call to Action

Offense is Defense. Build your Financial Stance. Master your Financial Movement. Execute your Financial Attack.

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Educational content only. Insurance and financial strategies vary by individual situation. Consult appropriately with Jason D Murry & his licensed professionals.

Sources (Hyperlinked)

  1. U.S. SBA Office of Advocacy — Frequently Asked Questions About Small Business (2024 PDF). https://advocacy.sba.gov/…/Frequently-Asked-Questions-About-Small-Business_2024-508.pdf
  2. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (TED) — 34.7 percent of business establishments born in 2013 were still operating in 2023. https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2024/34-7-percent-of-business-establishments-born-in-2013-were-still-operating-in-2023.htm
  3. MAIA Hub — Life During Wartime: How 7 Martial Arts Schools Overcame the Odds and Triumphed While COVID Attacked. https://www.maiahub.com/…/life-during-wartime-how-7-martial-arts-schools-overcame-the-odds…
  4. Martial Arts Museum (press release) — The Businesses Most Damaged by the Covid Lockdown, the Martial Arts Schools. https://mamuseum.cms.ipressroom.com/…/the-businesses-most-damaged-by-the-covid-lockdown-the-martial-arts-schools
  5. Investopedia — Key Person Insurance: Essential Guide for Businesses. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/k/keypersoninsurance.asp
  6. Guardian Life — A Guide to Key Person Life Insurance. https://www.guardianlife.com/life-insurance/key-person
  7. Gallup — Most Small-Business Owners Lack a Succession Plan. https://news.gallup.com/poll/657362/small-business-owners-lack-succession-plan.aspx
  8. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (paper) — How Much Do Small Businesses Rely on Personal Credit? (Fonseca & Wang). https://files.consumerfinance.gov/…/cfpb_2022-research-conference_session-6_fonseca-wang_paper.pdf
  9. The Vant Group — How Personal Credit Affects Small Business Borrowing (cites SBA 2006 report re: bank use of owner credit scores). https://www.thevantgroup.com/how-personal-credit-affects-small-business-borrowing/
  10. Federal Reserve System — 2020 Small Business Credit Survey: Employer Firms Report (notes personal guarantees commonly used as collateral). https://www.fedsmallbusiness.org/…/2020/2020-sbcs-employer-firms-report.pdf
  11. Bankrate — Personal Guarantee for a Business Loan (citing Federal Reserve Small Business Credit Survey). https://www.bankrate.com/loans/small-business/personal-guarantees/
  12. SCORE — Infographic: Small Business Retirement — Investing in Your Future. https://www.score.org/resource/infographic/infographic-small-business-retirement-investing-your-future
  13. PR Newswire — One-Third of Small Business Owners Lack a Retirement Savings Plan (SCORE infographic release). https://www.prnewswire.com/…/one-third-of-small-business-owners-lack-a-retirement-savings-plan-300833644.html

Financial Stability in Martial Arts Schools: Challenges and Solutions

Tradition with Innovation — by Jason D. Murry

A martial arts instructor trains young students – a rewarding passion that also comes with financial pressures. Many martial arts school owners pour their hearts into teaching, yet financial stress often looms in the background. From tight profit margins to personal financial sacrifices, running a dojo or gym is as challenging as any black belt test. In states like Oklahoma and Texas, where martial arts communities are growing, instructors face unique hurdles in balancing family finances and business needs.

As a martial artist and business leader myself, I’ve lived these realities. This discussion explores the financial struggles instructors face, how a plan (or lack thereof) impacts success, and how the Kintsugi Financial Leadership approach offers a path toward resilience, strength, and prosperity.

The Financial Challenges Martial Arts Instructors Face

Running a martial arts school is often a labor of love — but love alone doesn’t pay the bills. The financial reality is stark: most dojos operate on tight margins of 10–15%. A school bringing in $20,000 a month might net only $2,000–$3,000 after expenses — a cushion that disappears with any dip in enrollment or rise in costs. It often takes 2–3 years just to break even on startup costs.

These thin margins mean cash flow is a constant battle, especially given seasonal swings (enrollments spike in January and back-to-school, then drop in summers and holidays). Without proper planning, a bad month can push a school into survival mode.

Maintaining enrollment is another struggle. Many instructors find it difficult to attract and retain enough students to cover fixed costs like rent, utilities, and insurance. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows about 50% of small businesses close within five years, and martial arts schools are no exception. While black-belt perseverance helps many survive early years, passion alone can’t substitute for structure. Growth stalls when owners neglect budgets, systems, and measurable ROI.

Financial strain also hits the family. Many instructors juggle teaching, training, marketing, and management while trying to provide for loved ones — often living “hand-to-mouth.” Some fall into personal bankruptcy after taking their eye off the financial “ball.” That instability at home creates anxiety, affects marriages, and drains the joy out of teaching. Proverbs reminds us: “Be diligent to know the state of your flocks, and attend to your herds” (Proverbs 27:23 ESV). Discipline in stewardship applies as much to dojos as it does to discipleship.

The Impact of Financial Stress: Burnout and Dojo Closures

When financial pressure builds without relief, burnout becomes inevitable. Long hours, unpaid overtime, and low compensation create exhaustion. As one advisor put it, “Dealing with these things and not earning a fair compensation ultimately leads to one thing — burnout and closed doors.”

The COVID-19 pandemic magnified these vulnerabilities. In 2020, government lockdowns forced dojos to close, and over 80% in California shut permanently. Even historic schools folded after months of zero revenue. Those who survived did so because they had either financial reserves, insurance coverage, or diversified income streams. This was the great reveal — financial resilience determines survival in crisis.

Instructors with savings, insurance payouts, or creative pivots (Zoom classes, outdoor training, prepaid memberships) endured. Others without a plan couldn’t recover. The lesson is simple: faith without strategy is presumption. Wise stewardship honors God’s provision by preparing for seasons of famine and plenty alike.

Even in ordinary years, risks abound — injuries, lawsuits, or the loss of a key instructor. Yet only 22% of small businesses have Key-Person Insurance, and just 30% have estate plans. If something happens to the owner, the dojo’s future — and the family’s livelihood — is in jeopardy.

Thriving Dojos vs. Struggling Dojos: The Difference a Plan Makes

Despite the challenges, opportunity is abundant. In 2024, the U.S. martial arts market reached $19.4 billion with over 50,000 studios and 6.6 million active participants. Parents willingly invest $100–$300 per child per month when they perceive lasting value. Thriving owners treat their schools as both a calling and a company. They apply discipline to their finances with the same precision they apply to their kata.

  • They prioritize profit without guilt – recognizing it as the fuel for mission longevity.
  • They enforce structure – having a personal financial system in place, automated billing, pricing integrity, and clear ROI tracking.
  • They diversify income – lessons, seminars, pro shops, family programs, plus business investing add resilience.
  • They protect the foundation – insurance, emergency funds, and estate plans to ensure continuity.

Schools with such structure thrive. Those without it fight fatigue, inconsistency, and decline. As James wrote, “Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” (James 2:18 AMPC) In stewardship, intention without action is no plan at all.

The “Kintsugi” Approach: Financial Leadership for Martial Artists

Martial artists understand the balance of tradition and innovation. The Japanese art of Kintsugi (金継ぎ – “golden joinery”) teaches that brokenness, when repaired with gold, becomes stronger and more beautiful than before. Likewise, the “cracks” in a dojo’s financial structure can be healed and made stronger.

This is the mission behind Kintsugi Financial Leadership — applying timeless wisdom and modern strategy to strengthen both business and personal finances.

Our “Golden Joinery” Services Include:

  • Life & Key-Person Insurance – safeguard your family and your dojo’s continuity.
  • Health & Disability Coverage – protect your ability to earn while you heal.
  • Liability & Property Insurance – shield your school from unexpected loss or legal claims.
  • Debt Elimination & Cash-Flow Management – remove unnecessary weight and build financial agility.
  • Investments & Retirement Planning – create freedom to teach by choice, not necessity.
  • Estate Planning & Legal Protection – establish generational security and succession.

When these systems align, owners gain peace, families gain safety, and students gain consistency. Financial stewardship isn’t a distraction from your mission — it’s the armor that allows you to fulfill it.

Conclusion: Building an Unbreakable Legacy

As both Sensei and strategist, I’ve seen this truth repeatedly: every dojo’s strength is tied to its structure. We teach our students that pressure reveals the quality of training; the same applies to leadership. The Word tells us, “Through wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established” (Proverbs 24:3 AMPC).

It’s never too late to start repairing with gold. When you choose strategy over survival, stewardship over struggle, and faith with action, you don’t just build a school — you build a legacy.

Ready to Fortify Your Dojo’s Finances?

Let’s walk your numbers, protect your people, and design a plan that fits your mission. Schedule a Conversation with Jason

40 – 60 minutes. Bring your questions — I’ll bring the playbook.

Jason D. Murry — Kintsugi Financial Leadership | “Tradition with Innovation”

Sources

  • Spark Membership – “Why Martial Arts Schools Struggle With Revenue Growth,” Sep 16, 2025.
  • Kicksite – “Why Martial Arts Schools Fail (and How to Succeed!),” U.S. BLS data.
  • Wellyx – “40+ Martial Arts Industry Statistics…,” 2024.
  • Martial Arts History Museum – Press Release, Oct 26, 2021 (COVID-19 impact).
  • MartialArtsCoach.com – “Financial Independence for Martial Arts Instructors.”
  • Spectrum Jiu Jitsu – “Financial Wellness Workshop,” 2018.
  • Smartest Dollar – “Key Person Insurance Basics,” Jan 2023.
  • Gertsburg Licata Law – “Do I Need a Trust?…for Business Owners,” Mar 4, 2024.
  • Dynamic Martial Arts – “Golden Scars – Finding Strength in Brokenness with Kintsugi,” May 10, 2024.

Commission Breath vs. Coachability: Why New Agents Succeed or Fail

by Jason D Murry:
A Tale of Two New Agents

Meet Alex and Jordan, two freshly licensed professionals entering financial services. Alex earned his life & health license and dives into selling insurance, but he carries over his employee mindset. He’s laser-focused on making sales fast – maybe a little too focused. From day one, he chases every prospect with hungry eyes and a hard pitch. Colleagues whisper that he has “commission breath” – that whiff of desperation when a salesperson is more interested in their quota than the client’s needs . Alex expects that simply showing up and doing the minimum will bring success (a classic W-2 employee mindset), but in this entrepreneurial business his early efforts fall flat. Clients sense his urgency to close deals, and one by one, they back away. Within months, Alex is already looking for a way out.

Jordan, on the other hand, starts with a different attitude. He’s coachable, humble, and disciplined – approaching this career like a martial arts student training for a black belt. When his manager says, “Here’s a script and a proven system; practice it 100 times,” Jordan replies, “Okay,” and does it. When told to “watch, listen, learn, and do,” he says “Okay” – and keeps doing it. In the military or martial arts, they’d call Jordan an “okay person,” meaning someone who trusts the process: Do this and you’ll get that – okay! He soaks up mentorship like a sponge, shadowing experienced colleagues and practicing presentations daily. Rather than pushing policies on people right away, Jordan’s first goal is to learn and to help. He believes the business will reward him if he does the right things the right way – and he’s right. By year’s end, Jordan has built a reputation for genuinely caring about clients. He hasn’t broken records yet, but he’s still standing strong with a growing base of trust and referrals – while Alex is long gone.

The Reality Behind Success and Failure (Data & Mindset)

The story of Alex and Jordan reflects a hard truth in U.S. financial services. Most new entrants flame out quickly, and the difference often comes down to mindset and approach.

  • According to LIMRA, only about 15% of full-time financial professionals were still with their company after four years . That means roughly 85% drop out by year four, with the biggest exodus in year one.
  • Industry veterans openly acknowledge a 90% first-year failure rate for new life insurance agents .

Why so many failures? It’s rarely a lack of knowledge. The culprit is often attitude, focus, and resilience. One major killer is commission breath – that desperation clients can “smell” when an agent is focused more on earning a check than solving a problem .

Kaplan research confirmed it: the #1 reason insurance agents fail is they don’t listen to their customers or put the customers’ needs first . A rookie who chases commissions reinforces the worst stereotypes of our industry. They might close a policy or two, but they won’t build a loyal client base. In contrast, those who listen, educate, and solve for the client build trust – and trust pays long-term.

Another killer? The W-2 mindset in a 1099 world. Many new agents come from hourly or salaried jobs and assume “showing up is enough.” But in financial services, you’re running your own business. No one pays you just for being present. Those who wait for instructions or expect quick rewards soon burn out. As one industry leader put it: “You’ll never succeed in this industry if you’re not willing to work for it.”

Why Coachability Wins

Research shows that personal characteristics drive success more than credentials alone. LIMRA found traits like drive, grit, self-discipline, and willingness to be coached strongly correlated with retention .

Even outside financial services, a study of 5,000 hires revealed 89% of new-hire failures were due to attitude (especially lack of coachability), while only 11% were due to lack of skill .

And in financial services specifically, agencies that provide joint field work, strong mentorship, and structured training retain significantly more agents . Translation: the teachable ones who embrace training thrive, while those who think they already know everything crash fast.

Commission Structures & Reality Check

Let’s clear up a common rookie misunderstanding.

  • Insurance agents earn high first-year commissions (often 40–100% of the premium) but renewals drop dramatically – typically to 1–10%, often closer to 1–2%【blog.xoxoday.com】【orsfinancialgroup.com】.
  • Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs) holding a Series 65 or CFP® designation operate differently: they usually charge assets under management (AUM) fees, typically around 1% annually of assets managed, providing recurring revenue.

This means the “quick commission check” mindset is toxic. Long-term success comes from serving clients so well that renewals, referrals, and recurring fees compound year after year.

From “Just Show Up” to “Just Do It”

Being new – whether as a licensed insurance agent or a registered investment advisor – is tough. The first year tests whether you’re in it for the long haul. But here’s the key question: Will you do what it takes, for as long as it takes?

Be like the military or martial arts student who says “Okay” and executes without excuses. When your mentor says make 10 calls, you make 20. When the script says practice until it’s second nature, you don’t quit halfway. You do it.

Legendary coach Art Williams nailed it: “The winners do it. They do it, and do it, and do it, and do it, until the job gets done.”

In other words: Don’t stop at talking about success. Don’t stop at planning. Don’t stop when it gets hard. Just do it. Keep doing it until the job is done.

The Commanding Finish

So ask yourself: Which will you be?

  • The uncoachable, desperate rookie with commission breath?
  • Or the disciplined professional who listens, learns, and executes with integrity?

The first path ends in burnout and another failed statistic. The second builds a career of service, ownership, and legacy.

In this business, success isn’t about being slick or chasing shortcuts. It’s about character, consistency, and commitment. Develop the heart of a servant, the discipline of a soldier, and the perseverance of a warrior. Then do what winners do: Just do it, and do it, and do it, until the mission is accomplished.

Ready to Prove You’ve Got What It Takes?

Here’s the truth: most people who read this won’t take action. They’ll nod their heads, agree with the message, and then go right back to the same W-2, commission-breath mindset that’s kept them stuck. But if you’ve read this far, I believe you might be different.

Eszylfie Taylor teaches us that success isn’t about what you say—it’s about who you become in the process. Tom Hopkins would tell you, “Don’t ask if they’re interested, ask if they’re ready.” So let me ask you:

If you had the right mentorship, the right systems, and a team committed to your growth—would you finally step into the career you’ve been looking for?

Because here’s the deal: I’m looking for serious people. Not talkers. Doers. People who will watch, listen, learn, and then do—again and again—until the job gets done.

If that sounds like you, then the next step is simple: set an interview with me. Let’s see if you’ve got what it takes to run with us.

“Winners find a way. Losers make excuses.“
If you’re serious about building a lasting career in financial services—schedule your interview today. 📅 Schedule Your Interview Now

Sources: LIMRA & Finseca retention studies ; Kaplan Insurance research ; failure rate data ; commission structure references【blog.xoxoday.com】【orsfinancialgroup.com】【accountinginsights.org】; Art Williams speech .

Why $1 Billion in Life Insurance Goes Unclaimed Each Year — And How Policy Guardians Protect Your Legacy

Every year in the United States, more than $1 billion in life insurance benefits go unclaimed. This isn’t because families don’t need the money, or because the funds aren’t available. It’s because in the middle of grief and paperwork, many beneficiaries never file a claim—or worse, they don’t even know a policy exists.

When that happens, the legacy you worked so hard to leave behind becomes delayed, diminished, or even lost. Understanding why this happens and how to prevent it is key to protecting your family’s financial future.

The Hidden Crisis of Unpaid Life Insurance Benefits

Research shows that the odds of a life insurance policy going unpaid are about 1 in 600. The average amount left unclaimed is around $2,000, though some unpaid benefits have been worth over $300,000.

Why does this happen so often? The most common reasons include:

  • Beneficiaries never knew a policy existed
  • Families didn’t know who to contact
  • Insurance companies weren’t aware of the policyholder’s death
  • Grief left loved ones too overwhelmed to act

In short, it’s rarely about a lack of money—it’s about a lack of clarity.

How Policy Guardians Protect Your Legacy

At Kintsugi Financial Leadership, we’ve seen how quickly a family can lose access to the inheritance meant for them. That’s why we encourage every client to assign two Policy Guardians for every life insurance policy.

A Policy Guardian isn’t a beneficiary. Instead, they are a trusted contact who can:

  • Notify us quickly in the event of a passing
  • Guide your family through the claim process
  • Prevent your legacy from being lost in delays or silence

Why Two Policy Guardians?

Life is unpredictable. People move, contact information changes, and sometimes grief leaves someone unable to act. By assigning two Policy Guardians, you create a safety net—ensuring someone is always available to make the call and secure your family’s future.

Legacy Is More Than Money

The Bible reminds us: “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children” (Proverbs 13:22). That inheritance isn’t just financial—it’s spiritual, emotional, and practical. But if the process isn’t clear, even the best intentions can fall short.

With two Policy Guardians in place, your family isn’t left searching for answers during their darkest hour. Your planning becomes provision, your love becomes security, and your legacy continues without interruption.

Taking the Next Step

The bottom line is clear: don’t let your blessing be one of the billion. Assigning two Policy Guardians is a simple yet powerful step to ensure your life insurance benefits are claimed without delay.

At Kintsugi Financial Leadership, our mission is to help you Repair | Protect | Build | Lead. That means not only securing your family today, but making sure your legacy lives on tomorrow.

Act Now

If you already own life insurance, do you have two Policy Guardians listed on file? If not, now is the time.

Schedule a complimentary consultation: Book a Call
Email: teamwarriorsheart@gmail.com
Call or Text: (918) 604-6434

Let’s make sure your policy isn’t just a piece of paper—it’s a promise delivered.

Life Insurance by Generation: What Gen Z, Millennials, and Gen X Need to Know

By Jason D Murry | Kintsugi Financial Leadership

In an economy where uncertainty is the only certainty, financial responsibility requires more than income — it demands foresight. Life insurance is often seen as something for “later,” but the data tells a different story, especially across Gen Z, Millennials, and Gen X. Each generation faces its own financial challenges, beliefs, and motivators when it comes to owning (or avoiding) life insurance. Let’s explore the most recent insights to help bridge the gap between perception and action.

Ownership Stats by Generation (2024–2025)

  • Gen Z (ages 18–27): ~34% currently own life insurance
  • Millennials (ages 28–43): ~45% own life insurance
  • Gen X (ages 44–59): ~52% have life insurance

Source: LIMRA & proprietary consumer surveys (2024)

Why They Buy: Motivators by Generation

Gen Z:

  • Desire to be financially independent early
  • Digital exposure to financial content (TikTok, YouTube Finance)
  • Trauma from COVID and economic instability

Millennials:

  • Marriage, children, and mortgage obligations
  • Desire to break generational poverty
  • Growing distrust of traditional retirement systems

Gen X:

  • Preparing for legacy and estate planning
  • Supporting both children and aging parents (the “sandwich generation”)
  • Personal health changes influencing urgency

Why They Hesitate: Barriers by Generation

Gen Z:

  • Belief they’re “too young”
  • Lack of trust in financial institutions
  • Fear of locking into long-term commitments

Millennials:

  • Debt-heavy (student loans, credit cards)
  • Misunderstanding of how policies work
  • Underestimating the cost of waiting

Gen X:

  • Assumption it’s “too late” or “too expensive”
  • Policy fatigue (from past poor experiences)
  • Reluctance to revisit financial discussions

What This Means for You

Regardless of your generation, life insurance isn’t just about death — it’s about protecting life. Whether that means ensuring your kids have a future, your debts are covered, or your business can continue without you, the policy is a shield, not a burden.

And the longer you wait, the more expensive that shield becomes.

Our team at Kintsugi Financial Leadership offers complimentary Expert Financial Analysis (EFA) sessions to help you identify your needs and build a strategy rooted in wisdom, not fear.

Ready to Learn More?

If you’re Gen Z and want to build a smart start… if you’re a Millennial with a family to protect… or Gen X with legacy on your mind — we’re here for you.

Don’t wait. Be covered. Be clear. Be confident.

Schedule Your Free EFA Today

Kintsugi Financial Leadership are proud to serve individuals, families, and entrepreneurs across the U.S. with clarity, biblical stewardship, and practical strategy.

Tradition With Innovation: Kintsugi Financial Leadership Is Redefining Financial Services with Authenticity and Strategic Alignment

By Jason D. Murry | Kintsugi Financial Leadership

In a marketplace flooded with generic financial advice and copy-paste models, Kintsugi Financial Leadership has emerged with a mission that’s deeper than transactions — a calling to transform the way financial services are experienced, understood, and aligned with purpose.

Rooted in both timeless biblical principles and cutting-edge financial tools, our approach is simple: We don’t chase people — we attract those who are looking for us.

The Problem with the Current Landscape

Let’s be honest. Most large financial organizations operate with a high-pressure, numbers-first mentality. They teach “one-size-fits-all” scripts, reward volume over value, and often leave clients with products they don’t fully understand. Unlike the more Traditional IMO/MGA/FMO or Broker Dealers who have mastered recruitment and limited product lines; we’re here with stewardship in recruiting and authentic and multiple client services.

An Innovation to the Tradition. We’re here to build a richer standard.

Our Distinction: Strategic, Sincere, and Client-Centered

At Kintsugi Financial Leadership, we believe financial services should reflect your values — not the company’s bottom line. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Local First, Global Vision: We begin in our neighborhoods. Our foundation is in helping local families, businesses, and high-net-worth professionals build custom financial blueprints. Then we scale nationally and internationally — never losing our roots.
  • From Need to Desire: We don’t simply work with those who “need” financial services. We work with those who want strategic alignment. People who value long-term vision, protection, legacy, and stewardship.
  • Human Design, Not Cookie Cutter: Whether we’re helping a business owner structure tax-advantaged income, a W2 professional build a second retirement stream, or a young family navigate proper protection — no two plans look alike. And that’s the point.

Partnership Without Compromise

Through our trusted partnerships with Experior Financial Group, Global View Capital Advisors, and Quantum/Annexus, we offer best-in-class financial tools — from Term Life with Living Benefits, Whole Life, and Fixed Indexed Annuities to estate planning strategies, debt freedom tools, and generational wealth blueprints.

But the difference is how we deliver them. With education. With transparency. With biblical conviction. With bold, honest stewardship.

Tradition With Innovation

We respect the traditions of what’s worked — sound protection, legacy planning, debt elimination, and long-term compound growth.

But we don’t idolize the old models.

Instead, we bring clarity and customization using modern tools, proprietary strategies, and a relentless commitment to client alignment. We call this “Tradition With Innovation.”

Why Clients and Financial Service Professionals Choose Us

The financial world has too many salespeople and not enough strategic leaders. At Kintsugi Financial, we aren’t recruiting to fill quotas. We’re inviting warriors, visionaries, and faith-filled professionals to join us in restoring integrity to this space.

We attract clients and financial services professionals who are:

  • Looking for truth, not hype
  • Fed up with the smoke and mirrors of traditional agencies
  • Ready for a values-based, client-first system they can trust
  • Discerning enough to spot the difference between manipulation and mentorship

The Bottom Line

This isn’t about hype, hustle, or empty promises. It’s about building a legacy — for our clients, for our communities, and for our Creator.

If you’ve been praying for a team that still believes in truth, purpose, strategy, and stewardship — welcome. You may have just found what you didn’t know you were looking for.

Schedule An Intake

Come Work With Us

Jason D. Murry
Founder & Lead Broker | Kintsugi Financial Leadership
Senior Manager | Experior Financial Group
Partner | Global View Capital Advisors
Strategic Partner | Quantum / Annexus

Business Integrity in Financial Services

Financial Professionals – Morals, Ethics, Good Character

A Kintsugi Financial Leadership Perspective

In today’s financial services industry, integrity is integral—the very foundation upon which trust, relationships, and long-term success are built. At Kintsugi Financial Leadership, we approach our work through the lens of martial arts discipline, biblical stewardship, and the transformative art of kintsugi—repairing what’s broken and melding it into something stronger and more beautiful.

The Ethical and Regulatory Foundations

Financial professionals are bound by fiduciary duty—a legal and ethical obligation to act exclusively in the best interests of clients. Under the Investment Advisers Act, duty of loyalty prohibits conflicts of interest and self-dealing, while suitability standards under FINRA Rule 2111 reinforce the need for personalized recommendations (en.wikipedia.org).

Professional designations—CFP®, CFA®, CLU®, and ChFC®—reinforce this commitment. For instance, CFP® professionals must adhere to a fiduciary standard in all client interactions, as enforced by the CFP Board’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct (en.wikipedia.org).

Trust as the Cornerstone

Recent surveys underscore the significance of integrity and trust:

  • 72% of investors name trust as the most important quality in a financial advisor; losing trust is the top reason for terminating a relationship—outranking poor performance or fees (businesswire.com).
  • Among high-net-worth clients, personalization and transparency rank just as high as trust in shaping satisfaction and loyalty (prnewswire.com).

Delivering clear communication, simplified explanations, and regular updates enhances trust, while empathetic and compassionate service—“nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care”—seals it (theadvisermagazine.com).

Product Integrity—Insurance, Annuities, Debt, Tax Strategy

Life Insurance & Annuities

These tools become valuable legacy-building resources when used with full transparency and ethical intent. Strategies such as cash-value policies or deferred annuities must align with clients’ objectives and be disclosed honestly. We uphold a client‑driven philosophy—“We don’t fit people into products; we fit products into people.”

Debt Elimination

True repair in the kintsugi sense means restoring wholeness. At Kintsugi, we address debt with clear, biblically grounded solutions—eliminating high-interest burdens and structuring repayment without misaligned promises or deceptive tactics.

Tax Strategies for High Net-Worth Individuals

Tactics like using private placement life insurance (PPLI), retirement annuities, or leveraging policy cash value must be accurate, compliant, and fully aligned with regulations (IRS, DOL, SEC). Our practice ensures complete documentation, clear communication, and professional responsibility.

Upholding Ethical Standards for Agents & Brokers

The industry has grown wary of commission-driven sales tactics. Recent regulatory efforts—such as the DOL’s Retirement Security Rule—aim to curb conflicted advice and save consumers billions annually (marketwatch.com). Nevertheless, full compliance with fiduciary duty depends on enforceable standards, transparency, and moral clarity.

At Kintsugi Financial Leadership, integrity guides our approach:

  • Client‑driven, not product‑driven: We craft solutions tailored to individual needs.
  • Fiduciary-first and fee-based: Conflicts are avoided; interests remain aligned.
  • Transparent due diligence: Ongoing reviews ensure compliance with the Prudent Investor Rule and best practices.
  • Conflict-of-interest policies: All incentives are disclosed ahead of time, with mitigation practices in place.

The Kintsugi & Biblical Metaphor

The art of kintsugi teaches us that beauty lies in repaired fractures. At Kintsugi Financial Leadership, we:

  • Repair broken financial pieces.
  • Protect clients through sound insurance strategies.
  • Build a lasting legacy.
  • Lead others to adopt and pass on these principles.

Biblical metaphors of stewardship, restoration, and righteous leadership ground our mission: to restore financial wholeness and empower clients to lead lives of impact.

Why This Matters

  • Trust outweighs performance. Advisors ranked trust above returns—by a margin of 72% to 50%—and losing trust remains the top reason for client turnover (investopedia.com, reddit.com, prnewswire.com).
  • High-net-worth clients expect customization. 85% report that personalization and trust are equally critical to their satisfaction (prnewswire.com).
  • Human advisors backed by technology are seen as more trustworthy than algorithms alone; communication and empathy are irreplaceable by AI .

Your Path to Integrity-Driven Financial Leadership

At Kintsugi Financial Leadership, we are Client-Driven, Not Product-Driven.

Repair – rebuilding fractured finances.
Protect – covering your future.
Build – crafting your legacy.
Lead – empowering you to guide others.

Schedule your EFA: 45‑minute call with Jason Murry
Interested in competitive compensation? Learn how to join our system

Let’s renew integrity in financial services—restoring, protecting, building, and leading with purpose.

Tradition with Innovation: The Warrior’s Heart of Investing

At Kintsugi Financial Leadership we believe every market setback is a golden opportunity – a chance to repair, strengthen, and rebuild. Like the Kintsugi art that mends broken pottery with precious metals, we embrace market cracks and turn them into value. Our Warrior’s Heart philosophy (“Tradition with Innovation”) fuses timeless wisdom (martial discipline, faith, and practical finance) with cutting-edge strategies. In a downturn or an upswing, we act decisively and consistently. We don’t wait for perfection; instead we apply our core principles – Repair/Protect/Build/Lead – to guide clients through any market.

Treat Down Markets as “Flash Sales”

When stocks drop, savvy investors don’t panic – they smile and shop. Market dips are like investment flash sales: you buy more shares for each dollar. As Beanstox observes, “when prices dip during a down market, they go ‘on sale’ and investors can buy more for their money”. In fact, historical data show that one-year returns tend to be higher following market declines – even a >2% dip has often led to 28% average gains a year later. Instead of fearing a downturn, we reframe it as buying on sale. When others hesitate, disciplined investors gear up: each lump-sum purchase at a discount widens the moat around your wealth. This is practical Kintsugi thinking – we accept the cracks (market volatility) and intentionally gild them by adding value (smart buying).

  • Buy More, Pay Less: Like shopping during a clearance event, invest extra when markets fall. As one advisor notes, “rather than fearing financial loss, an investor can reframe it as buying stocks ‘on sale’”.
  • Stay Calm Under Fire: The Warrior’s Heart training teaches calm focus in chaos. We stay steady while others rush out; fear of loss becomes the fuel for future growth.
  • Long-Term Gain: Even Warren Buffett says to be “greedy when others are fearful.” Over decades, disciplined investors who buy through declines reap outsized gains.

The Power of Discipline: Dollar-Cost Averaging & Compounding

Consistency is our combat technique. We advocate disciplined habits like dollar-cost averaging (DCA): investing a fixed amount on a regular schedule, no matter what. This mirrors martial training: repeated, structured effort builds strength. Studies show DCA tends to match or beat most market-timing attempts. By buying steadily, you automatically buy more shares when prices are low and fewer when prices rise, reducing timing risk and emotion. As one analysis concludes, DCA “simplifies investing, mitigates emotional biases, and often delivers better outcomes than buying the dip”. In plain terms: set a plan, stick to it, and let the math work in your favor.

  • Fixed Routine, Big Results: Commit to a set monthly or quarterly investment. Just like a martial artist trains even on bad days, you contribute to your future regardless of today’s market.
  • Build, Don’t Chase: Discipline means not jumping at every market rumor. We focus on quality investments (diversified funds, strong stocks, etc.), not hasty trades. Proverbs 13:11 even counsels that “whoever gathers little by little will increase it” – a timeless nod to steady growth.
  • Compounding Kicks In: Consistent savings give more principal for compounding. As NASAA notes, “consistent contributions… over time gives compounding more principal to compound on and can enhance returns”. Small, regular deposits become wealth powerhouses over years.

This disciplined approach protects against panic. In a bull market it may lag an all-in lump sum, but over the long haul DCA “offers a more reliable path… particularly for long-term goals”. It fits the INTJ mindset too: methodical, strategic, and patient. Each scheduled investment is like placing one “gold” stitch on a broken vase – quietly building resilience.

Kintsugi Leadership: Repair, Protect, Build, Lead

Our name means more than artistry – it’s our ethos. Repair: we confront portfolio damage directly, rather than hide it. Protect: we buy smart assets that guard against erosion. Build: we grow wealth steadily through disciplined actions. Lead: we guide clients with integrity, wisdom, and compassion. Even in financial breakage, we emphasize rebirth and hope – Kintsugi teaches that “scars are proof that you’ve overcome difficulties, and imperfection is your unique beauty”. Market setbacks aren’t shameful cracks; they become the golden veins in your wealth story.

This mindset aligns with biblical stewardship. The Parable of the Talents rewards the servants who prudently invested and multiplied their resources, while censuring the one who hid his talent out of fear. We won’t bury our talents in fear. Instead we “use the resources and abilities given to us by God” and diligently multiply them. Likewise, Proverbs encourages diversifying risk: “invest in seven ventures, yes in eight,” because we “do not know what disaster may come”. We heed this wisdom by not putting all eggs in one basket – a principle as old as Scripture itself.

The Warrior’s Discipline: Strength Through Training

Like a martial artist mastering kata, we train ourselves to stay the course. In martial arts, self-discipline is doing what needs to be done even when you don’t feel like it. That same grit applies to finance: save and invest even when markets are scary. The benefits of such discipline are vast: focus, persistence, and control over impulsive behavior. Just as a fighter builds strength through consistent practice, an investor builds wealth through disciplined habits.

  • Routine Over Rush: An experienced fighter follows a daily regimen. Likewise, we set up automated contributions or regular reviews to enforce consistency. No market swing will knock us off routine.
  • Patience & Focus: In training, one must focus on fundamentals (stance, technique) before flashy moves. In finance, we guard fundamentals – emergency savings, debt management, diversified portfolios – rather than chasing hot tips. As one instructor notes, self-discipline “transcends the martial arts arena” and is key to managing personal finances.
  • Calm Under Pressure: Martial artists learn to stay composed in combat; their training becomes instinct. Similarly, disciplined investors stay emotionally even-keel, avoiding the panic that destroys portfolios. We make rational moves even when the market is volatile.

Faith and Stewardship: Growing Wealth with Principle

Our financial leadership is also guided by faith and timeless values. We see ourselves as stewards of our clients’ resources. Biblical wisdom reinforces what good finance demands: patience, prudence, and courage. Proverbs 13:11 reminds us that “wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it” – exactly our approach. We gather little by little through DCA, letting wealth climb steadily. Ecclesiastes 11:2 urges diversifying: “Invest in seven ventures… you do not know what disaster may come”. We heed this by spreading assets wisely.

Above all, we believe money should serve higher purposes. As 1 Timothy 6 advises, we remain generous and grounded, “rich in good deeds” rather than arrogant. At Kintsugi, that means every plan we craft honors your values and benefits your family and community. Our chaplain’s heart insists we lead with integrity. The financial principles we champion – saving regularly, avoiding debt, giving generously – come from both sacred counsel and sound strategy. This holistic stance is what makes our agency appealing to business owners, agents, and discerning investors alike.

Embrace the Long Game with Confidence

Markets will always ebb and flow. What never changes is the reward for discipline, courage, and consistency. By investing steadily, buying low during downturns, and staying true to principled plans, you harness the long-term power of compounding and growth. Kintsugi Financial Leadership stands ready to help you repair losses, protect gains, and build lasting prosperity – leading with both reason and conviction. Our Warrior’s Heart guides us: we innovate where needed, but never abandon the proven virtues of patience and preparation.

Let every market condition be your training ground, forging a stronger, wiser investor in you. Don’t wait for perfect timing (you can’t predict the bottom) – instead, start now with strategy and faith on your side. Take action today and turn uncertainty into advantage.

Ready to reinforce your financial foundation? Reach out and take the next step:

  1. Schedule an EFA (Financial Assessment) now – let’s craft your disciplined plan together.
  2. Join Our Agency – if you’re an agent or business leader, partner with us to bring warrior-hearted financial leadership to others.

Each journey starts with a decision. Embrace the Kintsugi way: Repair what’s broken, Protect what you have, Build for the future, and Lead with the Warrior’s Heart.

Gen X Retirement Readiness and Life Insurance Legacy Planning

Diversify Your Way to a Secure Retirement and Generational Legacy

Generation X is getting older, and many are waking up to the uncomfortable truth: we’re not ready. Surveys show nearly half of Gen Xers have no retirement plan or strategy at all
source: Investopedia – and only about 14% feel they’ve saved enough for a comfortable retirement. In fact, a recent Natixis study found Gen X’s median retirement savings is only ~$250,000 – hardly enough to last a 20-year retirement.

Meanwhile, soaring living costs and looming Social Security shortfalls mean the old safety nets are unreliable. Kintsugi Financial Leadership (Jason D. Murry and team) delivers a wake-up call: Diversification leads to a healthy retirement and a lasting legacy. You must build a broad, balanced plan – and it starts with insurance.

The Gen X Retirement Gap

Studies paint a stark picture:

  • 48% of Gen Xers have no retirement strategy at all
  • 58% have no written financial plan
  • 55% regret not saving more
  • 35% have under $10,000 saved
  • 18% have saved nothing at all
  • 46% believe it will take a “miracle” to retire securely

[sources: Investopedia, Allianz Life, Prudential]

Gen X is “sandwiched” between boomers and millennials and has been largely overlooked. Yet the clock is ticking. Expecting help from an inheritance is risky: 84% of Gen Xers aren’t planning to leave an inheritance.

Key Insight: Without a proactive plan, many Gen Xers may have little to pass on. Fortunately, the right strategy – anchored by life insurance and diversified investments – can flip the script.

Why Diversification Matters

Diversification is the bedrock of financial resilience. By spreading money across multiple asset types, you protect your portfolio when any one sector crashes. According to Investopedia, diversification “protects against losses” and is “especially important for older investors who need to preserve wealth.”

True diversification includes:

  • Secure (Conservative): High-quality liquid assets like cash, CDs, and short-term Treasuries.
  • Moderate (Balanced): A mix of blue-chip stocks and bonds to hedge risk while generating modest growth.
  • Growth: Heavier allocations to equities and index funds for long-term upside.
  • Aggressive: Small-cap, emerging markets, or alternative assets for high-risk/high-reward potential.

By blending immediate cash, medium-term bonds, and long-term growth, Gen X can weather financial storms. Balanced “moderate” portfolios, often used in retirement funds, hold all four categories in pre-set ratios
[source: WealthMeta.com].

Life Insurance: The Foundation of Family Security

Diversification isn’t just about markets – it begins with protection. Life insurance is an instant, tax-free transfer of wealth. It ensures your family is financially covered – no matter what happens.

Yet only about 54–55% of Gen X owns life insurance
[sources: Boston Mutual, Feather Insurance]. That means nearly half have nothing in place.

As Experian explains, life insurance isn’t just a payout – it’s a legacy tool and a financial safeguard that prevents asset liquidation in hard times. The right policy can:

  • Replace income
  • Pay off debts
  • Fund education
  • Support family-owned businesses
  • Launch generational wealth-building efforts
[source: Experian.com]

Key Insight: Term life (independent of your job) is one of the simplest, most powerful tools to create security for your household.

“Buy Term & Invest the Difference” – A Smart First Step

Kintsugi’s foundational strategy is simple:
Buy Term Life Insurance with Living Benefit Riders and Invest the Difference.

  • Term policies offer affordable protection for 10–30 years.
  • Premium savings compared to whole life can be redirected into diversified investments.
  • Living benefit riders (critical illness, chronic illness, etc.) turn term policies into multi-use tools.

According to Investopedia and Western & Southern, permanent life insurance is significantly more expensive – and the cash value typically grows slower than the equivalent invested amount.

For example, instead of $1,000/month into a whole life policy, you may only spend $100 on term and invest the remaining $900. Over time, that invested difference may grow far beyond the cash value of permanent policies
[sources: WesternSouthern.com, Investopedia].

Living benefit riders provide access to part of the death benefit if you’re diagnosed with a chronic, terminal, or critical illness. This low-cost addition turns insurance into protection you can use while alive.

Building a Diversified Portfolio

With proper insurance in place, Kintsugi then builds out your investment portfolio using four distinct buckets:

Secure (Cash Reserves):

Savings, money-market funds, or T-bills for emergencies and short-term needs. Highly liquid and low-risk.

Moderate (Balanced Funds):

A mix of stocks and bonds (often via mutual or target-date funds). Balanced exposure to growth and income.

Growth (Equities):

Heavier allocations to broad index funds (S&P 500, total market) and REITs. Designed for long-term compounding.

Aggressive (High-Risk/High-Reward):

Small-cap, international, emerging markets, or speculative assets. This bucket carries high volatility and is intentionally capped to match your risk tolerance.

Kintsugi professionals help structure your allocations across these categories to ensure diversification by asset class, market sector, and time horizon. When one market dips, others help cushion the blow.

Whether you prefer custom-built portfolios or pre-allocated funds, this model ensures that no single downturn wrecks your retirement plans
[sources: WealthMeta.com, Investopedia.com].

Take Action: Secure Your Legacy Now

The time to act is now. Gen X cannot afford to delay.

Diversification of protection and investments leads to a stronger retirement and a real legacy. At Kintsugi Financial Leadership, we aren’t here to sell you a product. We are licensed professionals trained to develop your personal financial strategy.

We coach. We challenge. We build. And we believe in stewardship.

Next steps:

  • Schedule your no-obligation Expert Financial Analysis (EFA)
  • Review your protection gaps and retirement savings plan
  • Build your customized Secure–Moderate–Growth–Aggressive strategy

The clock is ticking. The decisions you make today will determine whether your retirement feels like survival or legacy-building. Your family deserves protection. You deserve clarity.

Let’s build your future with intention. Click “Schedule” and let’s have a Conversation.

Sources

Investing the Difference: Empowering Your Future Beyond the Bank

Banks can feel safe, but simply parking your extra cash in a checking or savings account often means it loses value over time. The average U.S. savings account yields only about 0.42% APY, while U.S. inflation runs near 2–3%. In other words, a dollar saved in the bank buys less a year later. Banks are protected by FDIC insurance (up to $250,000 per person), so your principal is safe – but growth is minimal. Imagine a warrior who fights with one arm tied: that’s what it’s like trying to grow wealth locked in a low-interest account.

Why “Invest the Difference” Matters

As purpose-driven families and entrepreneurs, we believe in taking charge of our financial destiny. The key is to “invest the difference.” This means: when you earn money, pay your expenses and a portion to yourself (for savings and investments) first. That extra (“the difference”) shouldn’t idle in a low-yield account – it should be strategically invested. Even modest, regular investments can compound powerfully over time. For example, setting aside $200–$500 per month into a growth-oriented vehicle can build a substantial nest egg.

  • Build a habit of saving first. Automate transfers to investments before spending the rest.
  • Leverage compound growth. Money you invest early has years to grow, unlike money spent today.
  • Stay disciplined. Partnering with a licensed professionals helps you stay on track through market ups and downs. Your financial leaders becomes a coach and accountability partner, helping you avoid emotional decisions in volatile markets.

By treating investments as a priority (like a bill you pay yourself), you grow your resources and build legacy, not just bank balances.

Beyond the Bank: Powerful Investment Tools

At Warrior’s Heart Enterprises (with Kintsugi Financial Leadership), our mission is to equip you with trusted tools from Experior Financial Group and its partners – like Quantum/Annexus and Global View Capital – that align with your values and goals. We focus on strategies that balance safety with growth. Key tools include:

  • Fixed Annuities: These insurance contracts guarantee a fixed interest rate over a set term. They offer stable, predictable growth and are protected by the insurer. Many fixed annuities have low minimums (often around $1,000), so you don’t need millions to start. Think of them as secure stepping-stones in your plan.
  • Fixed Indexed Annuities (FIAs): These combine security with market upside. Your principal is protected (even if the market falls), while your return is linked to a stock index (like the S&P 500). In a good market, FIAs let you earn more; in a bad market, you simply keep a guaranteed minimum. As Charles Schwab explains, FIAs allow “principal protection with the potential for attractive yield” based on index performance. They also grow tax-deferred. In short, you get safety plus upside.
  • Managed Investment Portfolios: With our Global View Capital Advisors partners, we help craft diversified portfolios tailored to your risk level and mission. These often include stocks, bonds, and alternative assets chosen by experts. The advantage? Active management and customization. You benefit from professional asset allocation and sophisticated tools that ordinary savers lack. This is ideal for entrepreneurs or high-net-worth clients seeking growth with oversight.

In every case, these products are backed by seasoned providers. For example, Annexus (Quantum) is known for its industry-leading FIAs, designed to help retirees and families grow wealth securely. Global View Capital Management champions financial education and guidance, helping clients “reach their financial goals” through personalized plans. These resources empower you with institutional expertise that banks alone don’t offer.

Debunking Common Myths

  • Myth: “Banks are always the safest choice.” Fact: Safety requires context. FDIC insurance does protect deposits (up to $250K), but that only means your dollars remain. It doesn’t stop inflation from eroding purchasing power. In fact, as Greg McBride of Bankrate points out, “When inflation is 9%, all cash underperforms”. Today’s 2–3% inflation still outpaces most standard savings rates. To grow real value, you need growth, not just safety. That’s why we suggest combining FDIC-backed accounts for emergencies and growth investments for everything else.
  • Myth: “I don’t need insurance or annuities; they’re unnecessary costs.” Fact: Properly used, insurance products protect and empower. A life annuity, for example, can guarantee lifetime income so you won’t outlive your savings. Fixed annuities protect principal (unlike market investments) while still paying interest. And many have built-in death benefits to help your heirs. These are not “waste”; they are tools for security. We tailor them to your needs so that they complement – not complicate – your financial picture.
  • Myth: “You need a fortune to invest effectively.” Fact: You just need good planning. Even with a few thousand dollars, you can buy annuities or start a managed account. Many fixed annuities start around $1,000. You can also use systematic investments (like monthly transfers) to build over time. The key is consistency and choosing the right products. We show clients how small steps today lead to big results tomorrow.
  • Myth: “I can figure this out on my own; financial advisors aren’t worth it.” Fact: Even the most disciplined warrior has allies. Licensed advisors bring expertise and perspective. We understand the nuances of annuities, tax implications, and portfolio management. We help customize plans – no one-size-fits-all. Studies show advisors help investors stay the course during market swings. With us, you gain experience, accountability, and access to tools (like advanced planning calculators and exclusive products) that you wouldn’t have on your own. Ultimately, we save you time, stress, and costly mistakes so you can focus on your mission.

Investing with Purpose: Who We Help

Our approach is built for you – whether you’re raising a family, running a small business, or building wealth to bless your community. We especially serve middle-class families and entrepreneurs who value faith and tradition. For many Native American communities and faith-based organizations, financial stewardship is a core value. We honor that by offering culturally sensitive advice that respects your goals and heritage. Like the art of kintsugi (repairing pottery with gold), we see broken or stalled financial plans transformed into stronger, more beautiful legacies when guided wisely.

We also help high-net-worth clients who want to align their wealth with their values and leave a lasting legacy. No matter your background, investing the difference means more than numbers – it means strengthening your family, business, and community for generations.

Take Action Today – Connect with Warrior’s Heart Enterprises Financial Services

Don’t let common misconceptions hold you back. You have the power to grow your resources, protect your family, and honor your faith through strategic investing. At Warrior’s Heart Enterprises, our Financial Services team is mission-driven and direct. We partner with you personally to craft a plan using Experior’s suite of tools (Quantum/Annexus annuities, Global View portfolios, and more) that fits your unique situation.

Ready to act? Click “Schedule” to get with a licensed professional at Kintsugi Financial Leadership today. We’ll help you invest the difference – growing your future with purpose. Send us a message or call our Financial Services department. Together, we will protect what matters and build the legacy you envision.