Day in a Canoe Podcast: Financial Planning, Wealth Management, RIA

We sit down with Janet T. Planet, Principal and Founder of INTERPLANETARY INC., to explore the powerful connection between personal creativity and professional innovation. From opera stages and fashion runways to global consulting and experience design, Janet’s journey is anything but ordinary. She shares how embracing curiosity, honoring constraints, and rewriting internal “shoulds” can unlock deeper purpose.

Graham Veysey, Executive Director and Producer of Aspen Ideas Festival, joins us to explore the value of building community and designing meaningful experiences. As a serial entrepreneur, Graham brings a multidisciplinary mindset to leadership and neighborhood development. He reflects on life lessons from public service, creative partnerships with his wife, and cultivating spaces where connection thrives. 

Key Takeawa...

We’re joined by Matt Ward, Founder and CEO of 4WARD, a global platform connecting climate and sustainability innovators across industries. Matt shares his entrepreneurial journey from e-commerce ventures and manufacturing to purpose-driven work focused on building networks that accelerate climate solutions.

He explains how his drive for impact led to creating 4WARD.earth, a platform that fosters collabor...

Our host Nathan Mersereau sits down with Jason Reid, Co-Founder of National Services Group, Inc., to discuss his journey into mental health advocacy following the loss of his son. Jason shares how this tragedy led him to create tools and programs to support families, schools, and companies in opening meaningful conversations around mental health. Jason explains how parents can take more ownership of their children’s mental wellness...

On this episode, we’re joined by Jim Walberg, Realtor at Compass, who shares his profound insights on wealth, purpose, and the power of service. Jim's story is marked by transformative health experiences, a commitment to being of service, and a unique perspective on what true wealth means.

Key Takeaways:

(02:30) Jim reflects on his early career and the shift from employee benefits to real es...

We’re joined by Jennifer Garrison, Assistant Professor at Buck Institute for Research on Aging and Co-Founder and Director of the Global Consortium for Reproductive Longevity and Equality. Jennifer shares her insights on aging, healthspan, and the critical differences between male and female reproductive aging. She discusses how understanding biological aging can help improve long-term health and quality of life.

Key Takeaways:

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We’re joined by Chris Stakich, Chief Community Officer at CEO Coaching International. Chris shares how his global career and deep-rooted family values shape his outlook on leadership, contribution, and fulfillment. He explores the shift from individual achievement to mentorship, the lessons learned from parenting and coaching, and the moments that define true wealth. From ski chairlift conversations with his sons to coaching youth ...

Steph Corker believes true wealth isn’t just about money — it’s about joy, connection, and living with purpose. As chief growth officer, and founder and former CEO of The Corker Collective, acquired by ViRTUS in 2024, Steph helps leaders build meaningful careers while staying aligned with their values. In this conversation, she shares insights on bravery, leadership, and why the smallest moments — like offering a gummy...

We’re joined by Doug Nordberg, Furniture Designer at Nordberg Furniture, on this episode. Doug started crafting furniture at age 12 and has become a celebrated designer in Cody, Wyoming. He reflects on the challenges of balancing art and business, the lessons learned from slow times, and the importance of financial planning in building a sustainable creative career. From embracing strong emotional reactions to his work...

Joining us on this episode is photographer, writer, and filmmaker Audrey Hall, owner of Audrey Hall Photography. Audrey shares her journey from architecture to photography and her insights on balancing creative passion with financial success. She explores the interplay between art and business, emphasizing the value of both solitude and collaboration in her creative process.

Key Takeaways:

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Chrissy Glenn, Metal Sculptress, shares her journey from gallery curator to becoming a full-time artist working with metal. Inspired by nature and her apprenticeship with Val Bertoia, Chrissy explains how she found her passion for handmade metalwork and transformed it into wearable art.

Key Takeaways:

(01:40) Artistic ideas are sparked by immersion in natural environments.

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In this episode, Shasheen Shah, CEO of Coherent Strategies LLC, delves into the journey of aligning success with personal fulfillment. Shasheen discusses the importance of emotional generosity, the power of true human connection, and his approach to redefining wealth beyond financial measures. He also shares his insights on breaking free from distractions to find clarity and purpose.

Key Takeaways:

(04:16) Shasheen’s journey reve...

Ellie Thompson, a renowned jewelry designer and business owner, shares her journey from working as a teenage shop girl to founding her jewelry shop, Ellie Thompson & Co. Ellie discusses the importance of balancing creativity and entrepreneurship, and how designing jewelry with personal meaning aligns with her purpose.

Key Takeaways:

(01:31) Ellie’s journey from shop girl to entrepreneur.
(02:37) Balancing creative freedom with bus...

We’re joined by Dan Buettner,  National Geographic Explorer and founder of Blue Zones LLC, to discuss the keys to longevity, purpose, and living a healthier, more fulfilling life. A New York Times bestselling author, Guinness World Record holder in distance cycling, and Emmy award-winning Netflix series creator, Dan shares insights on living a longer, healthier life. From the origins of the five Blue Zones to the impac...

In this conversation, we’re joined by Elyse Allen, Owner of Elyse Allen Textiles. Elyse shares her creative journey from sculpture to textiles, her inspiration from nature, and the value of community and family support in pursuing a fulfilling life in the arts.

Key Takeaways:

(01:35) Building a cashmere business rooted in passion and organic inspiration.
(03:43) An artistic family background nurtures a natural creative path.
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We’re joined by Dr. Joseph Hunstad, Past President and Owner of HKB Cosmetic Surgery. Dr. Hunstad reflects on his journey from a leading plastic surgeon to embracing a fulfilling retirement. He shares the lessons learned throughout his career and the importance of planning for a meaningful life beyond work.

Key Takeaways:

(02:15) Finding a passion for plastic surgery in medical school.

True wealth isn’t just about money — it’s about choices, relationships, and making a lasting impact. Russell Budd, Founding Partner of PBS Contractors, shares his journey of balancing professional success with meaningful contributions to the Naples community. From advocating for mental health to hosting impactful community events, Russell provides actionable insights on living with purpose and making a difference.

We’re joined by Denise Ilitch, President of Ilitch Enterprises, to explore her journey in business, leadership, and community impact. Denise shares insights from her upbringing in the entrepreneurial Ilitch family and reflects on her experiences building a legacy in Detroit. From the importance of calculated risks to maintaining a strong community focus, Denise’s wisdom offers a fresh perspective on balancing professio...

In this episode, host Nathan Mersereau speaks with Jonathan Ward, CEO of ICON4x4. Jonathan shares his journey from restoring vintage vehicles to building a thriving business that combines nostalgia with modern functionality. He discusses the challenges of balancing creativity with business demands and the importance of staying true to his vision.

Key Takeaways:

(06:31) Mr. Toyoda’s surprising visit to the...