Ep 5 - Prioritizing Purpose Over Profit for Success: NY State Assemblyman Steve Stern’s Journey from Childhood to Advocate for Veterans, Elders and the Long Island Community

In this episode, Jonathan sits down with New York State Assemblyman Steve Stern, who is proud to serve his fourth term representing the 10th Assembly District. Since his election in 2018, Assemblyman Stern has championed critical legislation to safeguard groundwater, support veterans, protect children’s health, and combat the opioid epidemic. Together, Jonathan and Steve explore the intersection of wealth, policy, and service—discussing how financial well-being extends beyond numbers to impact communities, legislation, and the lives of those who have sacrificed for our country. Tune in for a compelling conversation that redefines what it means to be genuinely "crazy wealthy."

 IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Introduction
• (01:30) Steve shares his professional background and his interest in Elder Law, Veterans Affairs and Estate Planning in the Long Island Community
• (07:45) How Steve’s interest in elder law began
• (13:17) Money was never the motivation for Steve’s career 
• (18:21) Steve shares his childhood
• (23:45) Jonathan discusses society in the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s
• (27:08) Steve leaves listeners with a final word about veterans
• (31:16) Amy joins Jonathan to recap this episode!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• As a New York State Assemblyman, Stern has recently been appointed chairman of the State Assembly Committee on Veterans Affairs. This role is particularly significant given Long Island's large veteran population, making it his personal and community-driven priority.
• Many, especially younger generations, expect instant success. But true success comes from patience, persistence, and passion—chasing money alone leads to dissatisfaction.
• Higher incomes don’t guarantee happiness—social media and rising material expectations fuel dissatisfaction. True happiness comes from contentment and defining “enough,” not chasing more.

RESOURCE LINKS 

Fusion Family Wealth - Website

Johathan Blau - LinkedIn

Steven H Stern, Attorney  - Website

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: 

Steve Stern is honored to be re-elected for a fourth term as New York State Assemblyman for the 10th District. First elected in a 2018 special election, he hit the ground running, passing six bills in his first six weeks to protect groundwater, support veterans, and safeguard children's health. He has secured historic funding for local schools and law enforcement to combat the opioid crisis and gang violence. As Chairman of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Steve has championed legislation to expand veteran benefits, employment opportunities, and protections for veteran homebuyers and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses.

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