Next Level 263: Driven Towards Retirement with Elliott Kallen

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Elliott Kallen’s story is one of profound tragedy, unwavering resilience, and purposeful transformation. In this deeply personal podcast episode, Elliott shares how the devastating loss of his 19-year-old son to suicide became the catalyst for founding A Brighter Day, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping teens navigate depression and mental health struggles. What stands out most is how Elliott managed to continue growing a successful financial planning firm, Prosperity Financial Group, while building a platform that now supports thousands of teens every month.

Throughout the conversation, Elliott and host Chris Larsen explore not only the emotional toll of loss but also the practical, often overlooked, financial aspects of building a secure life. Elliott brings decades of entrepreneurial experience to the table, offering listeners valuable advice on automating savings, maximizing retirement plans like 401(k)s and cash balance plans, and setting up a financial system that supports life goals, not just numbers on a spreadsheet.

They also touch on how vital it is to instill financial habits early. Elliott recounts creative and touching stories about teaching his kids the value of money, matching their savings with gold dollar coins and requiring them to take out and repay small loans for college—lessons that shaped their adulthood. The underlying message is clear: whether you’re raising children, running a business, or building a legacy, how you approach money and adversity will shape those around you.

But the heart of the episode lies in Elliott’s mission with A Brighter Day. What began with a six-page suicide note has evolved into a full-scale effort to provide teens across the U.S. with support, resources, and most importantly, hope. When Elliott mentions receiving hundreds of emails from teens saying, “Thank you for saving my life,” the weight of his work becomes unmistakably real. It’s more than finance; it’s about using what we build to make an impact beyond ourselves.

This episode is a reminder that no matter the setbacks we face, we all have the capacity to turn pain into purpose—and to lead lives of both financial and emotional significance.

Listen To The Podcast Here:


Meet our guest:

Learn more about A Brighter Day

Explore Prosperity Financial Group

I hope you found this episode valuable. Check out https://chris-larsen.mykajabi.com/coachingprogram to learn more about our coaching program and read some testimonials from our previous students. You can also book a call with us to learn more and find out if this program is good fit for you.

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Christopher Larsen is the founder and Managing Partner of Next-Level Income. Since “retiring” after 18 years in the medical device industry he dedicates his time to helping others become financially independent through education and investment opportunities. Chris has been investing in and managing real estate for over 20 years.

While completing his degree in Biomechanical Engineering and M.B.A. in Finance at Virginia Tech, he bought his first single-family rental at age 21. Chris expanded into development, private-lending, buying distressed debt as well as commercial office, and ultimately syndicating multifamily properties. He began syndicating deals in 2016 and has been actively involved in over $500M of real estate acquisitions.

In addition to real estate, Chris has invested in equities, oil & gas, and small business lending, as well as being active in Venture South, one of the nation’s Top 10 Angel Investing groups. Chris lives with his wife and two boys (and Viszla, Lucy!) in Asheville, NC where he loves spending time with them in the outdoors and enjoying the food and culture that the region has to offer.

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