Many investment advisors favor cookie-cutter approaches that work on the front end of retirement planning—the years when you build up savings in anticipation of retiring. But their shortcomings become very apparent on the back end—when you’re ready to use the funds you’ve spent a lifetime accumulating. Even if you did “all the right things,” such as saving beyond your company’s 401(k) match, actually living off your retirement income and maintaining your lifestyle will look differently for everyone.

Stephen Caruso, JD, understands the need for a personalized approach to retirement income and estate planning. In fact, her wrote the book on it! As the President and Founder of New York City-based Laurel Wealth Solutions, Stephen brings more than 20 years of financial services experience. He specializes in retirement-distribution strategies and estate planning and is affiliated with Belpointe Asset Management as a Senior Wealth Manager. Providing his clients with unbiased recommendations, he strives to educate pre-retirees and retirees on timely financial issues, such as covering essentials, maintaining lifestyle, preparing for the unexpected and leaving a legacy.

In his new book Cookie Cut This! Retirement Distribution Strategies for the Non-Conformist, he offers personal stories and professional guidance on how to proactively approach your retirement by asking yourself critical questions and making wise decisions now that will pay off later.

Stephen is a popular public speaker in the industry, having presented at the United Nations and many esteemed universities across the country. He has trained advisors at some of the country’s largest financial firms and insurance companies. He holds a Bachelor of Science from Tulane University and his Juris Doctor from Concord Law School, and is a non-practicing member of the California Bar Association.

In his spare time, Stephen enjoys hiking, kayaking and spending time outdoors with his family.