In this episode, Jonathan sits down with Chadwick Ford, a special ops veteran and founder of Elysium Aero, to explore the striking parallels between military strategy and financial planning. Chad shares his distinguished military background and reveals how risk assessment, adaptability, and mission-focused discipline apply just as much to the battlefield as they do to building long-term financial security. They dive into the nuances of known and unknown risks, the importance of learning from history rather than just knowing it, and the necessity of removing emotions from decision-making. Chad discusses how trust in the architect of a plan—whether in combat or wealth management—can be the difference between failure and success. This conversation is a must-listen for those looking to approach their financial future with the same strategic precision as an elite military operation.

 IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:41] Chad shares his distinguished military background, and he compares financial investing with a deployed environment
• [12:30] Risk management, known and unknown, known and the known unknown and the unknown-unknown when executing strategic planning
• [18:00] Not just knowing history but learning from it
• [26:23] Training to stay on mission and removing emotions from decision making plus trusting the architect of the plan
• [35:44] Chad talks about a couple of close calls, and Jonathan makes his financial comparisons
• [43:14] Chad shares the firm he founded, Elysium Aero and describes its purpose
• [45:47] Jon and Amy recap this episode!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Military and financial planning share strategic parallels. Both require mission-oriented planning, risk assessment, and disciplined decision-making to navigate uncertainties and achieve long-term success.
• Risk management is essential. As reconnaissance reduces battlefield uncertainty, financial tools like insurance and diversification safeguard against unexpected setbacks.
• Success comes from adaptability. Understanding history, assessing risks, and evolving strategies are key to long-term financial and warfare success.

RESOURCE LINKS 

Fusion Family Wealth - Website

Johathan Blau - LinkedIn

Elysium Aero - Website

Chadwick Ford - LinkedIn

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: 

Chadwick Ford is the President and CEO of Elysium Aero Consulting & Solutions,

a firm focused on providing innovative leadership development, strategic

planning and consulting services to help businesses excel in today’s competitive

market. Through customized programs and military-inspired strategic frameworks,

Ford’s firm empowers organizations to overcome challenges, drive sustainable

growth, and strengthen their leadership capabilities.

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Please click below for important disclosure information.

https://www.fusionfamilywealth.com/disclosures

ABOUT THE HOST: Jonathan is the President and CEO of Fusion Family Wealth, founded in 2013 to focus on behavioral finance and guide clients toward rational financial decisions. A sought-after speaker in wealth management, Jonathan previously held senior roles in tax and estate planning at Arthur Andersen. He has a BS in Finance, an MS in Taxation, and an MBA in Accounting. Based on Long Island, Jonathan is active in the local business community, supports causes like the Middle Market Alliance and Sunrise Day Camp, and enjoys boating with his family.