In this episode of The Personal Finance Project, Scott and Greg sit down with Richard Ashcroft—Managing Director at Baird and one of the firm’s top-ranked financial advisors—for a deep conversation on building lasting wealth through sound financial planning principles rather than short-term market predictions.

In this thought-provoking episode of The Personal Finance Project, Scott and Greg sit down with Richard Ashcroft to unpack a lifetime of wisdom—both financial and personal. Known internally as the “RA Principles” and affectionately called the “Pop Principles” by his family, these timeless insights reflect decades of leadership, investing experience, and life philosophy.

In this episode of The Personal Finance Project, Greg Ashcroft and Scott Bartosh provide an update on ExxonMobil pension segment rates and what recent interest rate movements could mean for employees and retirees evaluating their pension options.

You’ll hear stories about navigating market crises like 9/11, 2008, and COVID-19, the importance of humility in managing wealth, and why keeping clients "in the fairway" is the key to long-term success.

The team explores how parents can help ease the burden for their children by organizing documents, clarifying roles, and setting expectations. They also discuss why a "fair" estate doesn't always mean an "equal" estate, how to handle unequal distributions, and the importance of gifting while living.

Are 529 college savings plans still the best way to fund education? , financial advisor Matt Leatherwood, CFP®, CPWA®, joins hosts Scott Bartosh and Greg Ashcroft to take a critical look at the benefits—and potential drawbacks—of 529 plans.