Wealth is a choice Podcast

Student loans are one of the biggest financial decisions many families will ever make, but they’re also one of the least understood.
In this episode of the Wealth Is a Choice Podcast, James sits down with Michael Lux, one of the nation's leading student loan experts and Director of the Student Loan Repayment Division for the State of Michigan. Together, they break down the entire student loan journey—from choosing a school and understanding financial aid to selecting the right loans and creating a repayment strategy that fits your long-term financial goals.
Whether you're a student, parent, recent graduate, or someone still paying off student debt years later, this conversation provides practical guidance to help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.
In this episode, you'll learn:
• How to decide whether a college degree is a good financial investment
• Why families should discuss college costs before applications are submitted
• The differences between federal, Parent PLUS, nonprofit, and private student loans
• How FAFSA, scholarships, grants, and financial aid packages fit together
• Income-driven repayment plans and Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) explained
• Common repayment mistakes that can cost borrowers thousands of dollars
• How to evaluate student debt against your expected starting salary
• Practical strategies to reduce borrowing and build a realistic repayment plan
Michael also shares why “hope is not a strategy” when it comes to student loan forgiveness. While forgiveness programs can be incredibly valuable for those who qualify, borrowers need to understand the specific rules and build a repayment plan based on their own circumstances—not assumptions about future policy changes.
If you're preparing for college, helping a child navigate higher education, or looking for a smarter way to manage existing student loans, this episode is packed with actionable advice that can save you time, stress, and money.
Connect with JPStudinger Wealth Advisors: https://jpstudinger.com

What does it really mean to finish what you start?
In this episode of Wealth Is A Choice, James sits down with Scott Brown, longtime Tour Da Yoop rider, veterinarian, leader, and man of deep faith, for a conversation about commitment, perseverance, purpose, and living a life of contentment.
Scott shares the defining experiences that shaped his character, from watching his mother overcome a life-threatening illness, to learning the importance of unwavering commitment, servant leadership, and helping others reach their potential. Through stories from Tour Da Yoop, his professional career, and his personal life, Scott offers practical wisdom on leadership, communication, goal setting, and finding meaning beyond success.
Together, James and Scott discuss why true wealth isn't measured by money alone, but by the choices we make, the people we serve, and the purpose we pursue.
In this conversation, you'll learn:
• Why commitment matters more than achievement
• The difference between being content and being complacent
• How small daily victories lead to extraordinary goals
• Lessons on leadership through listening instead of speaking
• Why understanding another person's perspective transforms communication • How faith, family, and service shaped Scott's life
• The culture of support and perseverance found through Tour Da Yoop
• Why "never leave your wingman" is a principle that extends far beyond cycling
Whether you're leading a team, pursuing a difficult goal, raising a family, or simply trying to become a better person, this conversation offers timeless lessons on living with purpose, integrity, and compassion.
Learn more about JPStudinger Wealth Advisors: https://www.jpstudinger.com/
Listen now and discover why true wealth begins with the choices we make every day.
#WealthIsAChoice #ScottBrown #Leadership #Purpose #Character #Contentment #Faith #GoalSetting #PersonalGrowth #TourDaYoop #Communication #LeadershipDevelopment #Resilience #FinancialPlanning #JPStudinger

What happens when a trusted meteorologist steps away from broadcasting and into public service?
In this episode of Wealth Is A Choice, James Studinger sits down with Representative Karl Bohnak, former longtime TV6 Chief Meteorologist and current Michigan State Representative for the 109th District. Karl shares his remarkable journey from forecasting weather across Michigan's Upper Peninsula to representing its residents in Lansing. Drawing from more than 30 years in broadcasting and his experience in state government, Karl offers a thoughtful perspective on leadership, public service, energy policy, economic development, and what makes the Upper Peninsula such a unique place to call home.
Together, James and Karl discuss:
• Karl's transition from meteorology to public office
• Why reliable energy is essential for economic growth in the Upper Peninsula
• The challenges of representing one of Michigan's largest geographic districts
• Mining, tourism, and balancing conservation with economic opportunity
• How legislation is created and how representatives evaluate complex policy
• Why staying informed and involved matters more than ever
• Lessons from a lifetime of following curiosity and pursuing meaningful work
• Karl's definition of wealth—and why he believes it's about living a blessed life, not simply accumulating money
Karl also reflects on memorable Upper Peninsula winters, the famous Blizzard of 1978, his unexpected path into meteorology, and the advice he'd give young people who are trying to discover their own direction in life.
Whether you're interested in Michigan politics, the future of energy, leadership, or simply love hearing stories about the Upper Peninsula, this conversation offers practical insights and an inspiring reminder that meaningful work often begins by following your curiosity.
Learn more about Representative Karl Bohnak: https://gophouse.org/member/RepKarlBohnak/about
Learn more about JPStudinger Wealth Advisors:
https://www.jpstudinger.com/
Listen now and discover why wealth isn't just measured in dollars—it's built through purpose, service, and pursuing what you're called to do.
#WealthIsAChoice #KarlBohnak #UpperPeninsula #MichiganPolitics #Leadership #EnergyPolicy #EconomicDevelopment #PublicService #Meteorology #Michigan #UP #JPStudinger

What if the biggest influence you have on government isn't money or political connections, but simply choosing to show up?
In this episode of Wealth Is A Choice, James sits down with Bill Jackson, Senior Principal at McAlvey Merchant & Associates, one of Michigan's leading government affairs and lobbying firms. With more than two decades of experience working alongside legislators, businesses, conservation groups, and trade organizations, Bill provides an inside look at how legislation is shaped and how everyday citizens can make their voices heard.
Together, James and Bill explore the legislative process, the role lobbyists actually play, why relationships matter in government, and how compromise, communication, and citizen engagement influence public policy. They also discuss unintended consequences in legislation, conservation advocacy, and why "showing up" is often the most powerful tool available to anyone.
In this conversation, you'll learn:
• What lobbyists really do, and why they're often misunderstood
• How legislation is actually created before it reaches a vote
• Why relationships and trust are essential in government
• How ordinary citizens can meaningfully influence public policy
• The importance of compromise in effective leadership
• Why unintended consequences are a critical part of the legislative process
• How conservation and sportsmen's organizations shape Michigan policy
Whether you're interested in politics, leadership, public policy, or simply becoming a more engaged citizen, this conversation offers a thoughtful look behind the scenes of how government works—and why your voice still matters.
Learn more about Bill Jackson and McAlvey Merchant & Associates: https://www.mcalvey.com/bill-jackson/
Learn more about JPStudinger Wealth Advisors: https://www.jpstudinger.com/
Listen now and discover why one of the most important choices you can make is simply to show up.
#WealthIsAChoice #BillJackson #Lobbying #MichiganPolitics #Leadership #PublicPolicy #Government #Legislation #CitizenEngagement #Conservation #Advocacy #FinancialPlanning #JPStudinger #MichiganBusiness #LeadershipDevelopment

Can respectful conversations still exist in politics?
In this episode of Wealth Is A Choice, James sits down with Michigan State Senator John Damoose, who represents Michigan's 37th Senate District, spanning Northern Michigan and the eastern Upper Peninsula. John previously built a successful media production company before entering public service and now serves on several key legislative committees focused on appropriations, economic development, manufacturing, and tourism.
Together, James and John explore the importance of civil discourse in today's political climate, why meaningful conversations require more than headlines, and how leaders can build trust even with those they disagree with. They also discuss Michigan's economic future, rebuilding American manufacturing, affordable housing, workforce development, infrastructure, natural disaster recovery, and why long-term thinking matters more than short-term politics.
John shares stories from serving one of Michigan's largest and most diverse districts, explains how relationships, not rhetoric, help accomplish meaningful work, and offers an optimistic vision for Michigan's future through manufacturing, skilled trades, and community leadership.
In this conversation, you'll learn: • Why respectful disagreement is essential for effective leadership
• How political relationships accomplish more than political fighting
• Lessons from Northern Michigan's flooding and infrastructure challenges • Why rebuilding American manufacturing is critical for Michigan's future
• The growing importance of skilled trades and career education
• How affordable housing impacts workforce development
• Why long-term economic planning matters for the state's success
• The importance of voting, civic engagement, and informed citizenship
• Why human trafficking legislation became one of Senator Damoose's highest priorities
Whether you're interested in leadership, Michigan politics, manufacturing, economic development, or simply learning how thoughtful conversations can bridge divides, this episode offers practical insights into solving complex problems with respect and purpose.
Learn more about Senator John Damoose: https://www.senatorjohndamoose.com/
Learn more about JPStudinger Wealth Advisors: https://www.jpstudinger.com/
Listen now and discover why some of the most important conversations happen when people choose understanding over outrage.
#WealthIsAChoice #JohnDamoose #MichiganPolitics #Leadership #Manufacturing #EconomicDevelopment #Michigan #CivilDiscourse #PublicService #WorkforceDevelopment #SkilledTrades #AffordableHousing #Infrastructure #HumanTraffickingAwareness #FinancialPlanning #JPStudinger

What does it take to build a third-generation family business while staying committed to innovation, relationships, and helping others succeed?
In this episode of Wealth Is A Choice, James sits down with Joe Cekola, President of Imperial Beverage, one of Michigan's premier beverage distributors. From the rise of Michigan's craft beer industry to leading a company built on trust, service, and continuous innovation, Joe shares the experiences that have shaped both his business and his life.
Joe reflects on the evolution of the beverage industry, how consumer preferences have changed over the decades, and why successful businesses must continually adapt while remaining true to their core values. Along the way, he shares lessons from growing a family business, taking calculated risks, and building long-term relationships with employees, suppliers, and customers.
The conversation also takes a deeply personal turn as Joe discusses a childhood accident, the mindset his grandfather instilled in him, and how choosing to view adversity as an advantage shaped every aspect of his life. He also recounts the Tour Da Yoop cycling experience that reinforced his belief that leadership is ultimately about helping other people succeed.
In this conversation, you'll learn:
• How Michigan's craft beer industry transformed over the past four decades
• Why innovation is essential, even in mature industries
• What it takes to successfully grow a multi-generation family business
• How consumer trends are changing across beer, wine, spirits, THC, and non-alcoholic beverages
• Why helping others succeed has become Joe's guiding leadership philosophy
• Lessons in resilience from overcoming a life-changing childhood injury
• How culture, relationships, and service create lasting business success
Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, leader, or someone looking for inspiration to overcome life's challenges, this episode offers practical lessons on leadership, resilience, and creating lasting impact.
Learn more about Imperial Beverage: https://imperialbeverage.com/about/
Learn more about JPStudinger Wealth Advisors: https://www.jpstudinger.com/
Listen now and discover why true wealth is built by helping others succeed.
#WealthIsAChoice #JoeCekola #ImperialBeverage #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #FamilyBusiness #CraftBeer #BusinessGrowth #MichiganBusiness #Innovation #Resilience #PersonalGrowth #FinancialPlanning #JPStudinger

What if the traditional path of high school, college, and then a career isn't the only route to success?
In this episode of Wealth Is A Choice, James sits down with Joe Bamberger, Managing Partner at Emerge, a talent pipeline management firm helping students and young professionals explore career opportunities, develop skills, and connect with meaningful work experiences. Joe also shares insights from his work supporting career education initiatives and helping bridge the gap between employers and the next generation of talent.
Together, James and Joe explore the changing landscape of education, workforce development, apprenticeships, skilled trades, internships, and the growing need for career exploration long before students make expensive educational decisions. They discuss why so many young people feel pressure to have their future figured out, the misconceptions surrounding college and skilled trades, and how students can better align their interests, strengths, and aptitudes with rewarding careers.
Joe shares how Emerge approaches talent development, why self-awareness is one of the most important career skills, and how employers can improve hiring by focusing on authenticity, culture fit, and long-term growth potential rather than simply checking boxes.
In this conversation, you'll learn:
Why career exploration should start earlier than most people think• The difference between interests and aptitudes—and why both matter• How apprenticeships and alternative education pathways are growing• Why skilled trades deserve more attention and respect• How employers can find better talent through better interviewing• The hidden costs of choosing the wrong educational path• Why it's okay not to have your entire career mapped out at 18
Whether you're a student, parent, educator, employer, or simply someone thinking about the future of work, this conversation offers practical insights into building a career with intention and purpose.
Learn more about Emerge:https://emergejobs.com/emerge-40-under-40/
Learn more about JPStudinger Wealth Advisors:https://www.jpstudinger.com/
Listen now and discover why success isn't about following a single path, it's about finding the path that fits who you are.
#WealthIsAChoice #JoeBamberger #Emerge #CareerDevelopment #FutureOfWork #WorkforceDevelopment #SkilledTrades #Apprenticeships #CareerExploration #Leadership #Education #PersonalGrowth #FinancialPlanning #JPStudinger #CareerSuccess #MichiganBusiness #TalentDevelopment #WorkforceInnovation

What started as a simple bike ride between friends has grown into one of Detroit’s most unique community movements.
In Episode 27 of Wealth Is A Choice, James sits down with Patrick Irwin, founder of We Bike Detroit, to talk about biking, community, resilience, faith, health, and what it truly means to connect people across a city.
Patrick shares the incredible story behind We Bike Detroit, a grassroots biking movement that now brings hundreds of riders together every month to explore Detroit neighborhoods, support local businesses, and create meaningful human connection through movement and shared experiences.
But this conversation goes much deeper than cycling.
Patrick opens up about:• Growing up in Southwest Detroit• The changing landscape of Detroit neighborhoods• Why biking can strengthen communities and improve health• His near-fatal widowmaker heart attack and recovery• The importance of kindness, forgiveness, and self-awareness• Lessons from Siena Heights and building opportunities for others• Why true wealth is about purpose, people, and giving back
This is a powerful conversation about resilience, perspective, faith, community, and choosing to live intentionally.
Learn more about We Bike Detroit here:https://www.facebook.com/groups/WBDetroit/
Learn more about JPStudinger Wealth Advisors:https://www.jpstudinger.com/
Listen now and discover why sometimes the greatest wealth comes from slowing down, connecting with others, and choosing kindness.
#WealthIsAChoice #PatrickIrwin #WeBikeDetroit #Detroit #Cycling #DetroitCycling #Community #Health #Faith #Mindset #HeartHealth #DetroitMichigan #BikeDetroit #PersonalGrowth #Podcast #Resilience #Leadership #Kindness #DetroitLife #Mobility

What does biking infrastructure have to do with economic growth, community health, tourism, safety, and quality of life?
In this episode of Wealth Is A Choice, James sits down with Todd Scott, Executive Director of the Detroit Greenways Coalition, to discuss how Detroit has quietly become one of the most exciting cities in America for biking, running, greenways, and connected mobility.
Todd has spent decades helping transform Detroit’s trail systems, bike infrastructure, and community connectivity — helping create safer streets, more accessible neighborhoods, and a stronger sense of community throughout the region.
The conversation goes far beyond bikes.
James and Todd discuss:• How Detroit became a national model for urban greenways• The Joe Louis Greenway and Gordie Howe Bridge pathway• Why connected trails improve tourism, local business, and public health• The surprising economic impact of mobility infrastructure• Bike safety, road design, and reducing pedestrian deaths• Why people are rediscovering Detroit through biking and running• The future of active transportation across Michigan• How experiences, health, and community all contribute to real wealth
Todd also shares stories from decades of advocacy work and explains why long-term change requires persistence, collaboration, and vision.
Whether you’re into biking, urban planning, community development, fitness, or simply want to hear a hopeful conversation about the future of Detroit, this episode delivers an inspiring perspective on what it means to build a healthier and more connected society.
Learn more about the Detroit Greenways Coalition:https://detroitgreenways.org/
Learn more about JP Studinger Wealth Advisors:https://www.jpstudinger.com/
#WealthIsAChoice #ToddScott #DetroitGreenways #Detroit #BikeDetroit #UrbanPlanning #Cycling #Greenways #DetroitMichigan #CommunityDevelopment #Infrastructure #ActiveTransportation #DetroitTrails #JoeLouisGreenway #HealthAndWellness #Running #Biking #Michigan #Podcast #JPStudinger

What happens when a legislator leads with empathy instead of division?
In this powerful episode of Wealth Is A Choice, Michigan State Senator Sylvia Santana shares her remarkable journey from growing up in a family affected by incarceration and poverty to becoming one of the state’s most respected bipartisan leaders.
Sylvia opens up about the personal experiences that shaped her passion for public service, why relationship-building matters in politics, and how listening to people’s real-life struggles can lead to better policy decisions. From voting rights and homelessness to corrections reform, education, affordable housing, and economic opportunity, this conversation dives into the human side of government in a way few political discussions ever do.
James and Sylvia explore:• Why civics education has disappeared, and why it matters• The hidden challenges behind voter ID and homelessness• What rehabilitation should actually look like in America• How incarceration impacts families for generations• Why Michigan’s education system is critical to the state’s future• The realities of affordable housing and economic instability• How relationships across the aisle help get things done• Why “making things better” is her guiding philosophy
Sylvia also shares her thoughts on Michigan’s future, the importance of keeping talent in the state, and why compassion, dignity, and understanding are essential ingredients for stronger communities.
This is an honest, thoughtful, and deeply human conversation about leadership, public service, and the real challenges facing everyday people.
Listen now and discover why wealth isn’t just about money — it’s about opportunity, connection, purpose, and choosing to care about one another.
Learn more about JP Studinger Wealth Advisors here:https://jpstudinger.com/
#SylviaSantana #MichiganPolitics #WealthIsAChoice #PublicService #VotingRights #CriminalJusticeReform #MichiganSenate #Leadership #Civics #AffordableHousing #Education #Community #CorrectionsReform #Podcast #Michigan #Bipartisanship