Compounding Change with Shannon Davis

The Numbers Game: Knowing What You Don’t Know about Deferred Compensation

Retirement planning has a way of making capable, thoughtful people feel uncertain. One glance at a benefits sheet filled with numbers and acronyms can create the sense that everyone else understands something you somehow missed. The truth is, most people aren’t behind or uninformed—they’re just trying to make sense of options that were never explained in plain language. In this episode of Compounding Change, host Shannon Davis [https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/] puts her sister Jenna Stoliker, founder of the Center for Conscious Leadership [https://jennastoliker.com/], in the role of “host” for an honest, curiosity-driven conversation about deferred compensation and the many retirement plans people encounter through work. We’re talking about things like what deferred compensation actually means, why plans like 401(k)s, 403(b)s, 401(a)s, and 457(b)s exist, and how employer-sponsored plans can look similar on paper while functioning very differently in real life. The episode also addresses the emotional side of money, acknowledging how difficult saving can feel when life is expensive and unpredictable. It’s important to know that retirement isn’t a cliff. Rather, it’s a runway you build decision by decision. With the right guidance and a clearer understanding of your options, confidence replaces confusion, and progress becomes possible. Key takeaways “-Deferred compensation” simply means money you earn now and choose to receive later -Not all employer-sponsored deferred comp plans work the same way -Qualified plans (401k, 403b, 457b) differ significantly from non-qualified plans -457(b) plans offer unique flexibility for public employees, including no early withdrawal penalty after separation -Roth options flip the tax equation and can add long-term flexibility -Small savings habits can reveal surprising opportunities when cash flow becomes visible -Catch-up contributions after age 50 can meaningfully change retirement outcomes -Liquidity often provides more flexibility than paying off every debt T-he goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress with the right support -A trusted advisor helps turn complexity into confidence The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at https://jennastoliker.com/ Chapters: 00:58 – Why retirement feels confusing 03:03 – What deferred compensation really means 06:31 – When “employer-sponsored” isn’t a 401(k) 09:32 – The retirement plan family (401k, 403b, 457b) 11:38 – When saving feels out of reach 19:17–Proactive steps to course correct 22:53 – Retirement strategies closer to retirement Helpful Links: Jenna Stoliker: https://jennastoliker.com/ Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/ --------- Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.  Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory Services are offered through Retirement Plan Advisors, LLC, a Federally Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge Investment Research and Retirement Planning Advisors are not related to DavisCompoundingChange.com or this podcast. Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.  The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at https://jennastoliker.com/

Climbing for Air: A Conversation with Catherine Widemire

Climbing more than a thousand stairs might sound a little extreme, until you realize it can also be a way to say, “Breathing matters.” From firefighters in heavy gear to families climbing in memory or in honor of someone they love, the Fight for Air Climb [https://action.lung.org/site/TR?fr_id=28628&pg=entry] brings together courage, grief, hope, and determination around something we all share: the simple act of taking a breath. It’s about turning effort into meaning, one step at a time. In this episode of Compounding Change, host Shannon Davis talks with Catherine Widemire, Development Manager for the American Lung Association in Northeast Ohio. Catherine shares her own story of living with asthma, how a friend convinced her to take on 1,268 steps at Key Tower for the first time, and how that experience eventually led her to the role she’s in today. Together they unpack what the climb represents for families, lung cancer survivors, people living with COPD or asthma, and the many others who show up every year with names, faces, and stories in their hearts. We hope that this episode inspires you to take one step forward, or maybe even take on the challenge of 1,268 steps on March 1, 2026 at Key Tower! Whether you’re climbing, volunteering, donating, or simply making one small change this week to help yourself or someone you love breathe a little easier, you’re making compounding change happen. Key Takeaways: -Small, consistent movement can make a real difference for lung health over time -The Fight for Air Climb at Key Tower is 1,268 steps and open to ages seven through 80+ -Firefighters and first responders climb to spotlight the lung risks they face on every shift -Fundraising supports research, advocacy, and patient programs like Lung Health Navigators and Freedom From Smoking -Many people first discover lung disease through a “simple” cough or symptom that doesn’t go away -The American Lung Association is working to improve access to healthcare, vaccines, and lung cancer screenings -You don’t have to climb to be involved, since volunteering and donating are meaningful ways to support the mission -Everyday choices like hydration, movement, nutrition, and air quality all compound into better breathing -Events like the Fight for Air Climb turn personal stories and community support into real-world impact The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at https://jennastoliker.com/ Chapters: 00:57 Introduction 01:45 Catherine’s Story 04:51 Saying Yes to the Climb 06:12 Inside Climb Day 13:39 Fundraising and Priorities for Lungh Health 14:51 Warning Signs of Lung Disease 12:54 Where the Money Goes 21:16 Ways to Get Involved Helpful Links: Catherine Widemire, American Lung Association, Climb for Air Event: https://climbcleveland.org Jenna Stoliker: https://jennastoliker.com/ Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/ --------- Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.  Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory Services are offered through Retirement Plan Advisors, LLC, a Federally Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge Investment Research and Retirement Planning Advisors are not related to DavisCompoundingChange.com or this podcast. Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.  The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at https://jennastoliker.com/

Do Something Series Episode 7 - Doing Something About Social Security

Social Security can feel like one of those complicated systems that everyone pays into but few truly understand. Between rumors that it’s “running out,” confusion about when to start claiming, and mixed advice from every corner, it’s no wonder so many people feel uncertain. In this episode of Compounding Change, host Shannon Davis [https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/] switches seats with her sister, Jenna Stoliker, [https://jennastoliker.com/] as Jenna takes over the host role for a candid discussion on what Social Security really is, who it helps, and how timing matters. Together, they walk through what determines the right age to claim, why “it depends” is the only honest answer, and how personal health, family needs, and other income sources all play a role. They also dive into the repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and what that means for firefighters and others in public service who once faced reduced benefits. Shannon outlines how working while receiving Social Security affects your checks, what happens when ex-spouses and survivors enter the picture, and how benefits can be paused, recalculated, or delayed to create more flexibility. With practical examples and years of experience helping first responders plan their futures, Shannon shows how small, informed decisions today can compound into lasting financial stability. Key Takeaways: – Social Security isn’t just a bonus; it’s the foundation of retirement income for millions. – Claiming early or waiting longer changes your benefit and long-term impact. – The Windfall Elimination Provision repeal restores fairness for many public servants. – Working while collecting doesn’t erase your benefit; it just affects timing. – Spousal and ex-spousal benefits come with key eligibility details. – Your top 35 earning years determine your Social Security calculation. – Benefits can be paused or increased after full retirement age. – Create your SSA account at ssa.gov to protect and understand your benefits. – A thoughtful plan combines Social Security, pensions, and personal savings. – Expert guidance can help turn confusion into clarity and confidence. The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at https://jennastoliker.com/ [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbDR3TVVPczJJa1Y4aUtxZWhpOFJNYUpjOU1yZ3xBQ3Jtc0ttR3hJd0l0MUExR0ZkUWdVdmlSMmd0Y1I5MzNBZkNRRzdYWm4xZTZUWHdFaXFnWXd2ODV4cTFZTzVtdnQxcW15VEJOaTJRMTVidlA3dndhM0VOc3N6dW9zSEN2UjlPeHBrVFZLcWtHSjk2WmNaVm5GQQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fjennastoliker.com%2F&v=2VI92VfrYZo] Chapters 00:57– Introduction 02:00 - Personal Confusion 05:20 – What Social Security Really Is 08:09 – When to Start Claiming 11:01 – How Firefighters and Public Servants Are Affected 13:25 – The WEP Repeal 16:51 – Working While Receiving Benefits 20:45 – Mid-Year Retirement and Monthly Testing 21:59 – Is Social Security Going Broke? 23:28 – Spousal and Ex-Spousal Benefits 28:19– Can You Reverse Your Decision? 31:40– How Social Security Fits with Pensions and 457Bs 34:14 – Next Steps for Compounding Change Helpful Links: Social Security Website: https://www.ssa.gov/ Jenna Stoliker: https://jennastoliker.com/ Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/ [https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/] --------- Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.  Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory Services are offered through Retirement Plan Advisors, LLC, a Federally Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge Investment Research and Retirement Planning Advisors are not related to DavisCompoundingChange.com [http://daviscompoundingchange.com/] or this podcast. Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.  The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at https://jennastoliker.com/ [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbDR3TVVPczJJa1Y4aUtxZWhpOFJNYUpjOU1yZ3xBQ3Jtc0ttR3hJd0l0MUExR0ZkUWdVdmlSMmd0Y1I5MzNBZkNRRzdYWm4xZTZUWHdFaXFnWXd2ODV4cTFZTzVtdnQxcW15VEJOaTJRMTVidlA3dndhM0VOc3N6dW9zSEN2UjlPeHBrVFZLcWtHSjk2WmNaVm5GQQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fjennastoliker.com%2F&v=2VI92VfrYZo]

Small Acts for Big Change: A Conversation with Erin Riegle

Some acts of compassion begin quietly, with no spotlight, no plan, and no guarantee that anything will come of them. Yet those moments often plant the seeds for real transformation. Small acts, leading to big change. In this episode of Compounding Change, host Shannon Davis talks with Erin Riegle, co-founder of Linc Worldwide, a nonprofit organization that grew from a simple Facebook fundraiser into a global mission helping children and families across Kenya. Together, they explore how Linc Worldwide evolved from building an orphanage to opening a full primary school that now provides education, clean water, food, and healthcare for vulnerable children. It’s an inspiring conversation about how one “yes” can lead to another, and another, until lives are changed across continents. Whether you’re moved to volunteer, donate, or simply believe that small steps still matter, this story proves that each one truly does. Key Takeaways: -Change begins with one intentional act of compassion. -Education creates lasting, generational impact. -Trust and accountability sustain real mission work. -Everyone has gifts that can serve others. -Giving time can be as meaningful as giving money. -Challenges can refine your purpose, not stop it. -Collaboration multiplies the reach of good work. -Purpose grows when compassion is consistent. The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at https://jennastoliker.com/ [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbDR3TVVPczJJa1Y4aUtxZWhpOFJNYUpjOU1yZ3xBQ3Jtc0ttR3hJd0l0MUExR0ZkUWdVdmlSMmd0Y1I5MzNBZkNRRzdYWm4xZTZUWHdFaXFnWXd2ODV4cTFZTzVtdnQxcW15VEJOaTJRMTVidlA3dndhM0VOc3N6dW9zSEN2UjlPeHBrVFZLcWtHSjk2WmNaVm5GQQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fjennastoliker.com%2F&v=2VI92VfrYZo] Chapters 00:59 – Introduction 02:22 A Moment That Changed Everything 04:46 – The Facebook Fundraiser 10:10 – The Five Core Pillars 15:41 – Opening the School in 2025 22:28 – The Ripple Effect of Getting Involved 31:20 – Advice for Aspiring Changemakers 34:27 – Contact Points and Closing Thoughts Helpful Links: Erin Riegle, Linc Worldwide: https://www.lincworldwide.org/ Jenna Stoliker: https://jennastoliker.com/ Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/ [https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/] --------- Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.  Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory Services are offered through Retirement Plan Advisors, LLC, a Federally Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge Investment Research and Retirement Planning Advisors are not related to DavisCompoundingChange.com [http://daviscompoundingchange.com/] or this podcast. Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.

Do Something - Episode 6: Planning to Plan a Retirement Plan

Retirement can sound like the finish line after decades of working, saving, and striving. But what if it’s really the start of something entirely new? So many people focus on what they’re leaving — a job, the grind, the stress — without ever asking what they’re stepping into. In this episode of Compounding Change and the Do Something mini-series, hosts Shannon Davis and Jenna Stoliker dive into what it truly means to prepare for retirement. Together, they explore the practical and personal sides of this major life transition. From understanding Social Security and Medicare to evaluating health, energy, and lifestyle goals, they discuss how to make confident decisions that align with who you are and what you value.  Remember, retirement doesn’t start when the paycheck stops. Your new life begins when you start shaping the life you want to live. Whether you’re five months or five years away, the message is clear: take one small step today toward something that matters, and begin living the future you’ve imagined. Key Takeaways: – Retirement isn’t an ending, it’s a beginning. – Plan for what you’re retiring to, not just what you’re leaving behind. – Align your plans with your health, energy, finances, and values. – Keep Social Security, Medicare, and estate documents up to date. – Emotional readiness matters as much as financial readiness. – Start small: write down five things you want more of in the next decade. – Don’t wait to live the life you envision for “someday.” – Every list, plan, and small step counts now and into retirement. The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at https://jennastoliker.com/ [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbDR3TVVPczJJa1Y4aUtxZWhpOFJNYUpjOU1yZ3xBQ3Jtc0ttR3hJd0l0MUExR0ZkUWdVdmlSMmd0Y1I5MzNBZkNRRzdYWm4xZTZUWHdFaXFnWXd2ODV4cTFZTzVtdnQxcW15VEJOaTJRMTVidlA3dndhM0VOc3N6dW9zSEN2UjlPeHBrVFZLcWtHSjk2WmNaVm5GQQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fjennastoliker.com%2F&v=2VI92VfrYZo] Chapters 00:55 – Rethinking Retirement 01:26 – What Are You Retiring To 03:29 – The Stoliker 5.0 Plan 05:02 – Designing Your Lifestyle, Not Just Your Bucket List 08:33 – The Purpose Factor 10:33 – Identity After Work 12:00 – Small Steps Toward Change 13:27 – Retirement as a Beginning Helpful Links: Jenna Stoliker: https://jennastoliker.com/ Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/ [https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/] --------- Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.  Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory Services are offered through Retirement Plan Advisors, LLC, a Federally Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge Investment Research and Retirement Planning Advisors are not related to DavisCompoundingChange.com [http://daviscompoundingchange.com/] or this podcast. Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.  The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Jenna Stoliker at https://jennastoliker.com/ [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbDR3TVVPczJJa1Y4aUtxZWhpOFJNYUpjOU1yZ3xBQ3Jtc0ttR3hJd0l0MUExR0ZkUWdVdmlSMmd0Y1I5MzNBZkNRRzdYWm4xZTZUWHdFaXFnWXd2ODV4cTFZTzVtdnQxcW15VEJOaTJRMTVidlA3dndhM0VOc3N6dW9zSEN2UjlPeHBrVFZLcWtHSjk2WmNaVm5GQQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fjennastoliker.com%2F&v=2VI92VfrYZo]