Tag: Bryan Sweet

Lessons from 80 Years of Living and Leading with Don Connelly (Ep. 90)

Lessons from 80 Years of Living and Leading with Don Connelly (Ep. 90)

Don Connelly isn’t just a master storyteller; he’s living proof that passion, purpose, and soft skills matter more with age, not less. 

At nearly 80 years old, Don brings unmatched wisdom from decades in the financial services industry. In this rich and heartfelt conversation with Bryan Sweet, he reflects on building a life of value, how storytelling makes the difference in client relationships, and why he refuses to retire.

From overcoming rejection to defining what it means to “retire to” rather than “retire from,” Don offers up insight you won’t find in a textbook. Whether you’re a veteran advisor or just starting out, this is one of those rare episodes that feels like a mentorship session.

What to Expect:

  • The soft skill that sets top advisors apart
  • How to stay sharp, engaged, and joyful at any age
  • The one question clients care about most
  • A new way to think about your next chapter in life
  • And more!

Connect With Sweet Financial Partners:

Connect With Don Connelly:

About Our Guest:

Don Connelly is perhaps the nation’s most successful speaker, motivator, and mentor to advisors in the financial services industry. His career on Wall Street spans more than 40 years and includes positions as stock broker, financial planner, branch manager, wholesaler, national sales manager, and, for nearly 19 years, a company spokesperson and Senior Marketing Officer for a multi-billion dollar Investment Firm. Now, as founder of Don Connelly 24/7, an extraordinary learning center and mentoring program, Don’s timely and provocative sales ideas are available to thousands of financial professionals, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Don has lectured tens of thousands of investors and financial services professionals in large cities, small towns, boardrooms, and universities. Audiences at England’s Cambridge University, Harvard, Wharton School of Business, Chapman College, and Pepperdine have all benefited from his presentations. He has shared his wisdom with Investment professionals abroad in New Zealand, Australia, Spain, Canada, England, South Korea, and Ireland. In the past few years, he has given several presentations to the prestigious Million Dollar Roundtable as both a main platform and workshop speaker.

Offering practical guidance to financial services professionals, Don inspires audiences to strive for greater accomplishments. He is known as a guru on managing client relationships, selling, and becoming a successful financial advisor.

He educates, entertains, and motivates audiences with an extraordinary flair and fast-paced combination of wit, intellect, anecdotes, and simplistic doctrine. Don’s mission for financial professionals is to simplify the process.

The opinions voiced in The Dream Architect Life Podcast with Bryan Sweet and Brittany Anderson are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine what may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Guests on the show are not affiliated with CWM, LLC. Investment advisory services offered through CWM, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Carson Partners, a division of CWM, LLC, is a nationwide partnership of advisors.

Mentorship, Mindset, and Next Big Ideas with Brian Heckert (Ep. 89)

Mentorship, Mindset, and Next Big Ideas with Brian Heckert (Ep. 89)

In this episode of The Dream Architect Life Podcast, Bryan Sweet welcomes long-time friend and fellow study group member Brian Heckert. From small-town beginnings to leading a multi-state advisory firm, Brian shares the principles, mentors, and turning points that shaped his career and life.

Brian discusses:

  • How meeting his wife in first grade shaped his values and vision
  • Why having a “next big idea” matters at every stage of life
  • The role of mentors in guiding personal and professional growth
  • Strategies for staying out of ruts and surrounding yourself with the right people
  • How clarity, core goals, and strong values drive decision-making
  • And more

Connect With Sweet Financial Partners:

Connect With Brian Heckert:

About Our Guest:

Brian Heckert is the past president of the Million Dollar Round Table, leading an organization of 90,000 members worldwide. With decades in the financial services industry, he is known for his visionary leadership, mentorship, and commitment to helping clients and advisors think bigger about what’s possible in their lives. From innovative business models to giving back through community involvement, Brian continues to inspire others to lead with clarity, integrity, and purpose.

The opinions voiced in The Dream Architect Life Podcast with Bryan Sweet and Brittany Anderson are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine what may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Guests on the show are not affiliated with CWM, LLC. Investment advisory services offered through CWM, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Carson Partners, a division of CWM, LLC, is a nationwide partnership of advisors.

You’re Either Winning or Learning: Ron Greenberg on Building a Life That Works (Ep. 87)

You’re Either Winning or Learning: Ron Greenberg on Building a Life That Works (Ep. 87)

Ron Greenberg didn’t grow up around wealth, but he did grow up with hustle. 

In this inspiring episode, Ron shares how a modest upbringing, a strong work ethic, and a desire for financial stability propelled him into a 35+ year journey of entrepreneurial success.

From duct-taped car doors to onboarding his firm’s largest client ever, Ron’s story is about more than just grit. It’s about how consistent vision, personal accountability, and deep relationships shaped the business and life, which he never thought was possible.

Here’s what you can expect from this release:

  • How Ron turned early scarcity into a life of service and abundance
  • The power of visualizing success and working backwards from the dream
  • Why leadership means letting go, not doing more
  • How golf became his most effective relationship-building tool
  • And more!

Resources: 

Connect With Ron Greenberg:

Connect With Sweet Financial Partners:

About Our Guest:

As a founding partner of Greenberg and Rapp Financial Group, Inc., Ronald Greenberg has devoted his practice to working with closely-held business owners and affluent individuals, and has developed one of the leading national firms dedicated to helping clients grow, manage, and preserve their wealth.

Ron began his career in financial services with Prudential in 1988. He holds the Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), Accredited Estate Planner (AEP®,) and Master Registered Financial Consultant (MRFC®) designations. Ron was a member of the prestigious Million Dollar Round Table* and has been a Top of the Table level advisor. He is a past president of the North Jersey Chapter of the Society of Financial Service Professionals as well as a member of the Tri-County and Northern NJ Estate Planning Councils. He has spoken extensively on the topics of preserving family wealth and exit planning strategies for business owners.

In his community, Ron is a founding board member of Liam’s Room, whose mission is to create home-like hospital rooms for children with life-threatening illnesses. He is also a volunteer at Cresthaven Academy, a charter school in Plainfield, NJ.

An avid golfer, Ron lives in Westfield, NJ, with his wife Debbie and two children.

The opinions voiced in The Dream Architect Life Podcast with Bryan Sweet and Brittany Anderson are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine what may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Guests on the show are not affiliated with CWM, LLC. Investment advisory services offered through CWM, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Carson Partners, a division of CWM, LLC, is a nationwide partnership of advisors.

Doc Sangani’s Unconventional Blueprint for Fulfillment (Ep. 85)

Doc Sangani’s Unconventional Blueprint for Fulfillment (Ep. 85)

In this episode of The Dream Architect Life, Bryan Sweet welcomes Dr. Bharat “Doc” Sangani, a cardiologist who came to the U.S. from Mumbai with just $10.45 and went on to build a $2 billion private equity firm. From medicine to franchising to real estate, Doc shares how belief, effort, and a few exceptional decisions shaped his journey.

He emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes, overcoming fear with preparation, and the power of seeking out mentors. Doc’s advice is practical: live below your means, plan for the worst, and stay committed to what you believe in.

The conversation also explores his deeper philosophy—seeing life as a gift and removing yourself from the center of it to gain clarity and peace. With humor and humility, Doc delivers insights on success, simplicity, and staying true to your values.

Expect insights on:

  • How fear can fuel vision, not paralyze it
  • Why belief and effort matter more than perfection
  • Doc’s framework for quantifying happiness
  • The power of mentorship, humility, and surrender
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect With Sweet Financial Partners:

Connect With Dr. Bharat Sangani:

About Our Guest:

Bharat Sangani, MD, Encore’s Chairman and CEO, co-founded the firm in 1999 as a vehicle for investors to share in the success of his real estate deals. “Doc,” as he is known by both clients and co-workers, made his first investment in real estate in 1991. He quickly learned he had a natural instinct for commercial real estate investing and began growing his portfolio. Over the 30 years that followed, Doc has established a successful private commercial real estate investment and development firm with a proven track record across multiple sectors throughout the United States. 

Admired for his relentless work ethic, Doc, along with a team of experienced, results-driven, and forward-thinking individuals, leads Encore on the principles of honesty, integrity, and fairness. Doc sits on the Board of Directors of Encore Enterprises, Inc., and Encore Properties, Ltd. He is an active contributor to the community and is involved in various charities both locally and in India.

The opinions voiced in The Dream Architect Life Podcast with Bryan Sweet and Brittany Anderson are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine what may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Guests on the show are not affiliated with CWM, LLC. Investment advisory services offered through CWM, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Carson Partners, a division of CWM, LLC, is a nationwide partnership of advisors.

Chapter Nine: Overcoming Limits to Create Your Best Retirement (Ep.78)

Chapter Nine: Overcoming Limits to Create Your Best Retirement (Ep.78)

What does it truly mean to dream big? How can you shatter your limiting beliefs to reach new heights in retirement? 

Brittany shares inspiring stories and insights, encouraging you to harness your mindset to conquer what seems impossible. Learn how the bravery of individuals like Christopher Reeve can inspire you to chart a course for your biggest dreams, while practical advice on dealing with life transitions nurtures your personal growth. 

You have the power to decide what your future holds, and it’s time to embrace opportunities that are just beyond your current reach.

This episode’s highlights include:

  • The significance of dreaming beyond current capabilities [00:03:00]
  • Building self-confidence to fuel your big dreams [00:04:00]
  • Why major life transitions can become turning points [00:09:00]
  • The role of mentors and supportive networks [00:16:00]
  • Steps to align your financial plans with your dreams [00:13:00]
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect With Sweet Financial Partners:

  • 1 (507) 235-5587
  • meetingwithsweet.com
  • meetingwithamber.com
  • Sweet Financial
  • LinkedIn: Bryan Sweet
  • LinkedIn: Brittany Anderson
  • Facebook: Sweet Financial Partners
  • 📖 Get our book, “Dream Architecture” here

The opinions voiced in The Dream Architect Life Podcast with Bryan Sweet and Brittany Anderson are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine what may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Guests on the show are not affiliated with CWM, LLC. Investment advisory services offered through CWM, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Carson Partners, a division of CWM, LLC, is a nationwide partnership of advisors.

Chapter Eight: Turning Your Dreams Into Reality (Ep.77)

Chapter Eight: Turning Your Dreams Into Reality (Ep.77)

What if retirement wasn’t just about slowing down, but rather speeding up to live out the dreams you’ve always had?

Join Bryan Sweet, CLU®, ChFC®, as he reveals key strategies to build confidence in your financial future. Through smart planning and a focus on what truly matters, he’ll help you create a fulfilling and secure retirement.

With insights from Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin P. Hardy, Bryan challenges the common notion of retirement being a slow phase and instead portrays it as an exciting time to pursue significant life goals. Whether it’s opening a new business or traveling the globe, it’s never too late to dream big and plan wisely.

Key highlights in this chapter include:

  • How focusing on life goals complements financial planning [00:01:00]
  • The pitfalls of early retirement without proper planning [00:03:00]
  • Harnessing the power of planning and achieving small wins [00:08:00]
  • Strategies to build self-confidence and avoid comparing yourself to others [00:14:00]
  • And more!

Resources: 

Connect With Sweet Financial Partners:

The opinions voiced in The Dream Architect Life Podcast with Bryan Sweet and Brittany Anderson are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine what may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Guests on the show are not affiliated with CWM, LLC. Investment advisory services offered through CWM, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Carson Partners, a division of CWM, LLC, is a nationwide partnership of advisors.

Chapter Three: How to Stay Focused on What You Want (Ep.72)

Chapter Three: How to Stay Focused on What You Want (Ep.72)

In this chapter of our audiobook, Dream Architecture: Build a Retirement Beyond What’s Possible we dive into the powerful concept of not letting others “should” on you. Too often, people let friends, family, or colleagues dictate what they should do with their wealth, career, or retirement. Your life is not their life – it’s time to focus in on what you really want.

Dive in to explore: 

  • What it means to “stop letting others should on you” and how it impacts your journey (00:02:50)
  • How to cultivate an abundance mentality and maintain clarity in your goals (00:10:30)
  • Powerful tools and exercises for gaining clarity and confidence in your financial future ( 00:18:45)
  • The role of gratitude and positivity in overcoming negativity bias (00:25:00)
  • And more

Resources: 

Connect With Sweet Financial Partners:

 

The opinions voiced in The Dream Architect Life Podcast with Bryan Sweet and Brittany Anderson are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine what may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Guests on the show are not affiliated with CWM, LLC. Investment advisory services offered through CWM, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Carson Partners, a division of CWM, LLC, is a nationwide partnership of advisors.

Chapter Two: What Do You Want For Your Future? (Ep.71)

Chapter Two: What Do You Want For Your Future? (Ep.71)

Are your indecisions holding you back from living your dream retirement?

Join Bryan Sweet as he delves into Chapter 2 of our audiobook, Dream Architecture: Build a Retirement Beyond What’s Possible. Listen as he explores how you can overcome decision fatigue and the vital steps needed to determine what you truly want in life.

Let’s unlock the pathway to your ideal future!

  • Understanding decision fatigue and its impact on our lives [00:02:35]
  • The importance of decisively planning your retirement [00:11:45]
  • Strategies to combat self-limiting beliefs and embrace new possibilities [00:22:10]
  • How to test and refine your dreams effectively [00:34:12]
  • The transformational power of maintaining a positive mindset [00:48:05]
  • And more

Resources: 

Connect With Sweet Financial Partners:

 

The opinions voiced in The Dream Architect Life Podcast with Bryan Sweet and Brittany Anderson are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine what may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Guests on the show are not affiliated with CWM, LLC. Investment advisory services offered through CWM, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Carson Partners, a division of CWM, LLC, is a nationwide partnership of advisors.

 

Dream Architecture: Chapter One (Ep.70)

Dream Architecture: Chapter One (Ep.70)

Exclusive for listeners of The Dream Architect Life Podcast! 

Come along as Brittany Anderson introduces the audiobook of Dream Architecture, a guide to building a retirement beyond expectations. This episode features the first chapter exploring the power of possibility in financial and life planning while emphasizing the importance of mindset. Learn how a positive outlook is essential for maximizing financial strategies and unlocking a future filled with purpose and fulfillment. 

In this chapter, you will discover: 

  • The Dream Architect’s trademarked four-step approach (Vision, Blueprint, Build, Maintain) aligns your financial path with your dreams. [05:17]
  • The deeper ‘why’ behind your goals can redefine your path to retirement. [15:50]
  • Embracing a creative mindset and thinking like a kid to unlock untapped potential, including proven strategies for reigniting creativity. [10:48]
  • Inspirational stories like Sean “Three Foot Giant” Stevenson’s, highlighting how mindset shifts can transform life’s challenges into empowering opportunities. [20:02]
  • And more

Resources: 

Connect With Sweet Financial Partners:

 

The opinions voiced in The Dream Architect Life Podcast with Bryan Sweet and Brittany Anderson are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine what may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Guests on the show are not affiliated with CWM, LLC. Investment advisory services offered through CWM, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Carson Partners, a division of CWM, LLC, is a nationwide partnership of advisors.

Maximizing Your Retirement Through Estate Planning with Craig Hersch (Ep.67)

Maximizing Your Retirement Through Estate Planning with Craig Hersch (Ep.67)

Think estate planning is just about what happens after you’re gone? Think again! It’s a vital life plan to help you shield wealth, minimize taxes, and set your family up for success. 

Today on The Dream Architect Life Podcast, Bryan Sweet interviews Craig Hersch, a seasoned estate planning attorney and strategic coach. They discuss the upcoming changes in estate tax laws, particularly the sunset provisions set to take effect in 2026. Craig shares insights on advanced estate planning strategies, the importance of timing, and how to identify qualified estate planning attorneys.

Craig discusses: 

  •  How important is timing when implementing estate planning strategies
  •  What are some common misconceptions clients have about estate planning processes
  •  Why is open communication with family about financial matters essential
  •  What is necessary to create a personalized estate plan tailored to a client’s unique situation
  • And more

Resources: 

Connect With Craig Hersch:

Connect With Sweet Financial Partners:

About Our Guest:

Craig R. Hersch is the go-to National Practice Development Expert for truly entrepreneurial & ambitious estate planning attorneys. He almost single-handedly created the innovative, trademarked processes The Family Estate & Legacy Program® and The Estate Settlement Program®, The Advanced Planning Expander™ and The Transitional Event Sequence™.  These unique processes, designed to provide clients with comfort and clarity when navigating the complex legal, tax, and financial concerns associated with planning and administering an estate, are innovative game-changers that can’t be compared with anything else out there.