In this episode of The Ascent, Sam McGee from Crestmont Private Wealth shares his personal experiences and professional advice on college visits and preparing your child for college. From the evolving college application process to practical tips on campus tours, housing, financial planning, and essential legal documents, Sam provides valuable insights for parents and students navigating the journey to higher education.

00:00 – Introduction & About Crestmont Private Wealth
00:49 – The Changing College Application Process
01:43 – The Fun and Importance of College Visits
02:29 – Housing Deadlines and Application Tips
03:41 – The College Tour Experience: Then vs. Now
04:21 – When to Start College Tours (Junior Year Advice)
05:10 – Exploring Different Types of Schools (Community, Technical, etc.)
07:00 – Essential Legal Documents: HIPAA Authorization & Medical Power of Attorney
09:41 – Financial Planning: Local Banking & Credit Cards for Students
10:39 – In-State vs. Out-of-State Tuition & Financial Aid Opportunities
11:51 – Letting Go: Encouraging Student Independence on Tours
12:22 – Final Advice: Make College Tours a Family Experience
13:08 – Closing Remarks & Contact Information

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of "The Ascent," Sam McGee (CEO, Crestmont Private Wealth) and Alec Walker (EVP of Financial Planning) discuss the impact of layoffs in the energy sector, financial planning strategies during uncertain times, and the importance of diversification and adaptability. They share practical advice for individuals facing layoffs, including emergency savings, investment strategies, and maintaining a strong professional network. The conversation also touches on the emotional side of career transitions and the growing influence of AI on the workforce.

00:00 – Introduction: Meet Sam McGee and Alec Walker

00:46 – Energy Market Uncertainty & Layoff Statistics

01:47 – How Crestmont Helps Families Facing Layoffs

02:49 – Financial Planning: Emergency Savings & After-Tax Investments

05:27 – Investment Diversification & Overconcentration Risks

09:58 – Tax Implications of Company Stock

12:00 – The Double Whammy: Layoffs & Stock Downturns

13:30 – The Human Side: Emotional Support & Building Trust

15:00 – The Future: AI, Industry Disruption, and Adaptability

16:34 – Professional Networking & Continuous Learning

18:13 – Who Crestmont Works With & Parting Advice

19:33 – Closing Remarks & Contact Information

Original Air Date: October 11, 2025 at 8:30am as heard on Boerne Radio 103.9FM

Contact: www.crestmontpw.com

Alec Walker in Houston: 831-280-5288

Sam McGee in Boerne: 830-368-2898

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of "The Ascent," host Sam McGee interviews Marshall Fisher, Director of Distillate Trading at Valero. They discuss Marshall’s background, his journey into the energy and aviation fuel industry, the intricacies of jet fuel production and distribution, and the impact of global events like COVID-19 on the fuel market. Marshall shares industry stories, including a humorous anecdote about commodity trading, and offers career advice for those interested in the energy sector. The conversation wraps up with insights on the importance of petroleum products in modern life.

00:00 – Introduction: Host Sam McGee introduces the show and guest Marshall Fisher.

00:47 – Marshall’s Background: Growing up in Boerne, education, and early career.

01:45 – Getting into Energy Trading: Marshall’s path to Valero and the appeal of energy trading.

03:00 – Aviation Fuel 101: Explaining the process from refinery to tarmac, and global demand stats.

05:00 – COVID-19 Impact: How the pandemic affected fuel markets and trading.

08:00 – Commodity Trading Story: The dentist and the 1,000 barrels of heating oil.

10:00 – Market Stabilization: How big players managed risk during market turmoil.

12:30 – Valero’s Market Share: Valero as the largest North American jet fuel seller.

13:00 – Career Advice: Internships, building a brand, and advice for students.

16:00 – The Role of Aviation Fuel: The importance of petroleum products in daily life.

17:20 – Closing Remarks: Final thoughts and gratitude.

Original Air Date: October 4, 2025 at 8:30am as heard on Boerne Radio 103.9FM

Contact: www.crestmontpw.com

Alec Walker in Houston: 831-280-5288

Sam McGee in Boerne: 830-368-2898

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.