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.

In this episode of The Ascent, Sam McGee from Crestmont Private Wealth discusses essential considerations for aging parents and their families. Covering topics like legal documentation, income planning, healthcare, family communication, and fraud protection, Sam shares practical advice and real-world experiences to help families navigate the complexities of aging and wealth management. Whether you’re planning for your own future or supporting loved ones, this episode offers valuable insights to ensure peace of mind and financial security.

Contact: info@crestmontpw.com

00:00 - Introduction & About Crestmont Private Wealth

00:43 - The Importance of Planning for Aging Parents

01:23 - Key Financial and Family Considerations

02:14 - Legal Documentation: Power of Attorney, Wills, Directives

04:49 - Beneficiary Designations & Routine Audits

05:49 - Income & Cash Flow: Social Security Decisions

06:48 - Timing Social Security & Spousal Benefits

07:52 - Family Communication Styles & Challenges

09:19 - Transparency and Annual Family Meetings

10:07 - Specifying Wishes & Estate Planning

10:47 - Shared Access & Trusted Contacts

11:58 - Technology for Safety & Monitoring

12:44 - Fraud Protection: Trends and Best Practices

14:33 - Consolidating Accounts & Simplifying Finances

15:13 - Recap: Key Takeaways for Seniors and Families

16:00 - Closing Remarks & Contact Information

Original Air Date: September 27, 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, Alec Walker from Crestmont Private Wealth explains everything you need to know about Roth conversions. He covers what a Roth conversion is, when and why it makes sense, key rules and deadlines, tax implications, and how to determine if a Roth conversion is right for you. Alec also discusses the impact on Medicare premiums, estate planning, and strategies for optimizing your conversions. If you’re considering a Roth conversion or want to understand the benefits and potential pitfalls, this episode is packed with practical advice and expert insights.

00:00 – Introduction: Alec Walker and the topic of Roth conversions

00:14 – What is a Roth conversion?

00:56 – Roth conversion deadlines and why timing matters

01:47 – Why do Roth conversions in the fall?

02:07 – How much should you convert? Tax bracket considerations

02:49 – When does a Roth conversion make sense?

03:19 – Roth conversions and retirement years

03:59 – Roth conversions for large required minimum distributions (RMDs)

04:49 – The “gap years” and tax planning

05:14 – Importance of after-tax investment accounts

05:22 – Estate planning: Secure Act and inherited IRAs

05:49 – Hedging against future tax rate increases

06:14 – Reducing lifetime taxes with Roth conversions

06:39 – Five main reasons for Roth conversions

07:04 – Key rules and “gotchas” (deadlines, no takebacks, five-year clock)

07:51 – Five-year rule explained

08:24 – Tax brackets and Medicare premium considerations

08:45 – How Medicare premiums are calculated

09:04 – Impact on Affordable Care Act and insurance premiums

09:49 – Estimated taxes and making tax payments

10:19 – Withholding taxes vs. paying with outside funds

10:47 – Working with CPAs and tax professionals

11:12 – How to determine if a Roth conversion is right for you

11:30 – Analyzing your tax return and projecting income

11:50 – Annual vs. one-time Roth conversions

12:13 – The power of partial, annual conversions

12:36 – Long-term impact of annual conversions

13:01 – How to get in touch for a Roth conversion analysis

13:26 – Outro and contact

Original Air Date: September 20, 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 information

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Sam McGee from Crestmont Private Wealth as he interviews Laura Anderson, president of the 100 Club of Kendall County. Laura shares her background as a law enforcement officer, the mission of the 100 Club, and the importance of supporting first responders and their families. The episode covers the annual "Tug the Truck" event, mental health challenges for first responders, stories of community support, and ways to get involved. Recorded on September 11th, the conversation also honors the sacrifices of first responders and highlights the club’s commitment to local impact.

00:00 – Introduction: Meet Sam McGee & Laura Anderson

00:45 – Laura’s Law Enforcement Background

01:28 – The Risks and Sacrifices of First Responders

02:30 – Mental Health Challenges in Law Enforcement

03:00 – How Laura Got Involved with the 100 Club

03:40 – What the 100 Club of Kendall County Does

04:30 – "Tug the Truck" Event Overview

05:15 – Event Activities: Fire Truck Tug, Police Car Push, Awards

06:00 – Community Involvement & Sponsors

07:00 – Honoring 9/11 and Fallen First Responders

08:00 – Stories of Support: Mental Health & Financial Aid

09:00 – Scholarships and Training Grants

10:00 – The Importance of Mental Health Support

11:00 – Other Annual Events: Boots for the Badges Bash

12:00 – How Donations Are Used Locally

13:00 – How to Get Involved & Wishlist

14:00 – Closing Thoughts: Community, Patriotism, and Contact Info

15:44 – End of Episode

Original Air Date: September 13, 2025 at 8:30am as heard on Boerne Radio 103.9FM

https://www.100clubkendallcounty.org/

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.

Welcome to The Ascent! In this episode, Sam McGee from Crestmont Private Wealth discusses the often-overlooked mental and emotional aspects of preparing for retirement. While financial planning is crucial, Sam emphasizes the importance of addressing identity, purpose, routines, social connections, and mental health as you transition into retirement. Learn practical strategies to maintain fulfillment, manage financial anxiety, and ensure a smooth, meaningful shift into this new chapter of life.

Timeline / Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction & About Crestmont Private Wealth

00:50 – The Emotional Side of Retirement

01:55 – Loss of Identity & Finding New Purpose

02:37 – Planning New Routines and Hobbies

03:18 – Maintaining Social Connections

04:52 – Lifestyle Changes in Retirement

05:37 – Financial Planning & Setting Expectations

06:43 – Managing Financial Anxiety

08:12 – The Importance of an Income Plan

09:02 – Ongoing Financial Maintenance

09:25 – Seeking Support: Therapy & Coaching

10:48 – Finding Purpose & Fulfillment

11:39 – The Impact of Losing Purpose

12:00 – The Value of a Retirement Coach

12:31 – Final Thoughts & Resources

Original Air Date: August 30, 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 with Crestmont Private Wealth," host Sam McGee interviews Dorman Vic, the leader of the renowned welding program at Champion High School in Boerne, Texas. They discuss the origins and impact of the program, the importance of vocational education, inspiring student stories, and the broader movement to bring skilled trades back into the spotlight. The conversation covers faith, grit, community support, and the life-changing opportunities that vocational training provides for young people. Special guests and supporters, including local dignitaries and celebrities, are highlighted, along with ways listeners can get involved.

• Original Air Date: August 23, 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

00:00 – Introduction to the show and disclaimer

00:35 – About Crestmont Private Wealth and the Boerne, TX office

00:58 – Introducing Dorman Vic and the Champion High School welding program

01:38 – Dorman’s journey: inspiration, testimony, and the start of the program

02:47 – The impact of the program and community support

04:23 – Student stories: overcoming adversity and breaking barriers

05:45 – The value of vocational education in a white-collar community

07:00 – Bringing shop class and vocational training back to schools

08:30 – The importance of hands-on skills and learning new trades

10:00 – The role of taxpayers and the public in supporting education

11:30 – Advice for other school districts and the future of vocational education

13:00 – The need for industry involvement and urgency in skilled trades

14:30 – The decline of the middle class and the importance of manufacturing

15:45 – Famous people who started in skilled trades

17:00 – The broader impact of shop programs and role models

18:30 – The infrastructure and essential skills that keep society running

19:45 – The “Amazon culture” and the reality of production

20:30 – Success stories: student certifications and employability

22:00 – Building confidence and portfolios for students

23:00 – Projects for the government and celebrities

24:00 – Life skills and character development through the program

25:00 – How listeners can support the Welding Student Support Foundation

26:00 – Social media and ways to connect with the program

27:00 – The role of Governor Perry and other supporters

28:00 – Final thoughts: the movement for vocational education

29:00 – Call to action for listeners and closing remarks

30:00 – Outro and well wishes

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.