It’s 4 o’clock Somewhere

In this August episode of It’s 4 O’Clock Somewhere, Marc Shaffer and I talk about something that sounds simple but is weirdly hard for a lot of us: slowing down without feeling guilty.
Marc shares how “summer hours” have created more open space in his schedule, even if golf has not exactly made the calendar yet. We talk about taking inventory of your time, resisting the urge to fill every open slot, and why creative space matters.
We also get into:
Business development when you are in a slower season
Why useful content can keep working long after you write it
Reconnecting with great people like Linda Endicott and Isaac Lee Collins
Marc’s health journey, running, walking, and being down eight pounds
Larry Lewis being honored in the Buck O’Neil seat at a Royals game
Preparing for speaking engagements
Books and ideas from Awareness, Be Yourself at Work, and Jim Rohn
It’s work, life, health, leadership, and a little permission to stop treating your calendar like a junk drawer.
Pull up a chair. It’s 4 o’clock somewhere.
 
This episode is brought to you by Searcy Financial. Your financial future begins with a simple question: Where do you want to be? At Searcy Financial, we help successful individuals and families through our mission to simplify your financial journey, empowering you to enjoy life and wealth on your terms. The question sparks a conversation that goes beyond numbers, helping us understand what truly matters to you and the kind of financial plan that aligns with your life goals. It also allows us to identify potential challenges and opportunities so we can proactively address them. The outcome is a plan that empowers you to acquire, grow, and preserve your wealth.
Searcy Financial is celebrating 50 years of service. Don’t miss out on any of the excitement! To sign up for information on Marc’s book, “One for All,” including where to buy and exclusive website content, or to sign up for the Searcy Financial Wealth Matters email newsletter, use the links below:
- Marc's Book "One for All": Keep Me Updated!
- "Wealth Matters" newsletter: Sign Me Up!
 
The opinions expressed herein are those of certain Searcy Financial Services, Inc. personnel and are subject to change without notice. The opinions referenced are as of the date of publication and are subject to revision due to changes in the market or economic conditions and may not necessarily come to pass. Any opinions, promotion, endorsement, projections, or forward-looking statements expressed herein are solely those of the author, may differ from the views or opinions expressed by other areas of the firm, and are only for general informational purposes as of the date indicated. Searcy Financial Services, Inc. was not compensated, nor are there material conflicts of interest that would affect the given statement. 

​This episode was originally released under The Corporate Couch podcast series in May 2026
In this May edition of *It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere*, Marc Shaffer and I are back with another happy hour-style conversation about what’s working, what we’re learning, and why the best connections often happen when you least expect them. 
We start with the aftermath of Searcy Financial’s 50th anniversary celebration, including a harmless little parking lot prank involving Marc’s car. From there, we talk about the incredible momentum behind Run for the Roses, which has raised more than $320,000 for Growing Futures, crushing its original $150,000 goal. 
We also dig into:
* Searcy’s strategic planning week and what it means to think 3 and 10 years ahead* The challenge and opportunity of leading a team spread across the country* Volunteering, scavenger hunts, streetcars, and “vacationing” in your own city* Kansas City restaurant shoutouts, including Ragazza, Joe’s Kansas City, OurHouse, Bamboo Penny’s, and Classic Cup* Our upcoming tag-team talk for Next KC* Teaching kids about money before they start charging property taxes on their toy Lexus* Adam Grant’s *Think Again* and the importance of questioning what we think we know
Marc also previews a trip to Pittsburgh, a new advisor credential, and a visit to PNC Park, which leads, naturally, to a little downtown baseball stadium talk.
As always, this episode is part business, part life, part community, and part “two friends talking over drinks.”
Grab a drink. Pull up a chair. It’s five o’clock somewhere.
 
This episode is brought to you by Searcy Financial. Your financial future begins with a simple question: Where do you want to be? At Searcy Financial, we help successful individuals and families through our mission to simplify your financial journey, empowering you to enjoy life and wealth on your terms. The question sparks a conversation that goes beyond numbers, helping us understand what truly matters to you and the kind of financial plan that aligns with your life goals. It also allows us to identify potential challenges and opportunities so we can proactively address them. The outcome is a plan that empowers you to acquire, grow, and preserve your wealth.
Searcy Financial is celebrating 50 years of service. Don’t miss out on any of the excitement! To sign up for information on Marc’s book, “One for All,” including where to buy and exclusive website content, or to sign up for the Searcy Financial Wealth Matters email newsletter, use the links below:
- Marc's Book "One for All": Keep Me Updated!
- "Wealth Matters" newsletter: Sign Me Up!
 
The opinions expressed herein are those of certain Searcy Financial Services, Inc. personnel and are subject to change without notice. The opinions referenced are as of the date of publication and are subject to revision due to changes in the market or economic conditions and may not necessarily come to pass. Any opinions, promotion, endorsement, projections, or forward-looking statements expressed herein are solely those of the author, may differ from the views or opinions expressed by other areas of the firm, and are only for general informational purposes as of the date indicated. Searcy Financial Services, Inc. was not compensated, nor are there material conflicts of interest that would affect the given statement. 

​This episode was originally released under The Corporate Couch podcast series in April 2026
In this April edition of It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere, Marc Shaffer and I have another happy hour-style conversation about what’s working, what we’re learning, and why playing the long game matters.
Marc shares the shocking secret behind his zero calcium heart score: Mountain Dew and Skinny Pop. Medical professionals may disagree.
We also talk about:
• The incredible success of Run for the Roses and Growing Futures• Health, walking, mobility, and meditation• New connections through The Table KC• Golf plans, baseball stadium debates, and future live podcast recordings from local restaurants• Celebrating 50 years of Searcy Financial and Marc’s 20-year milestone
Good people. Good stories. Good reminders about what matters.
Grab a drink. It’s five o’clock somewhere.
 
This episode is brought to you by Searcy Financial. Your financial future begins with a simple question: Where do you want to be? At Searcy Financial, we help successful individuals and families through our mission to simplify your financial journey, empowering you to enjoy life and wealth on your terms. The question sparks a conversation that goes beyond numbers, helping us understand what truly matters to you and the kind of financial plan that aligns with your life goals. It also allows us to identify potential challenges and opportunities so we can proactively address them. The outcome is a plan that empowers you to acquire, grow, and preserve your wealth.
Searcy Financial is celebrating 50 years of service. Don’t miss out on any of the excitement! To sign up for information on Marc’s book, “One for All,” including where to buy and exclusive website content, or to sign up for the Searcy Financial Wealth Matters email newsletter, use the links below:
- Marc's Book "One for All": Keep Me Updated!
- "Wealth Matters" newsletter: Sign Me Up!
 
The opinions expressed herein are those of certain Searcy Financial Services, Inc. personnel and are subject to change without notice. The opinions referenced are as of the date of publication and are subject to revision due to changes in the market or economic conditions and may not necessarily come to pass. Any opinions, promotion, endorsement, projections, or forward-looking statements expressed herein are solely those of the author, may differ from the views or opinions expressed by other areas of the firm, and are only for general informational purposes as of the date indicated. Searcy Financial Services, Inc. was not compensated, nor are there material conflicts of interest that would affect the given statement. 

This episode was originally released under The Corporate Couch podcast series in March 2026.
In this March edition of It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere, Marc Shaffer and I are back with another happy hour-style conversation where business, life, and Kansas City culture all collide.
We kick things off with Marc rescheduling our recording…for a TV appearance. I’ve officially been bumped. But it leads to a bigger conversation about visibility, promoting causes that matter, and the growing momentum behind Run for the Roses supporting the not-for-profit Growing Futures.
Along the way, we cover:
-A job candidate who flew himself to Kansas City for a chance meeting and got hired-Why younger professionals are thinking more entrepreneurially-Kansas City BBQ rankings (yes, Joe’s vs. Q39)-The power of relationships and reflecting on legacy-Health, continuous learning, and why growth never stops.
We wrap with what really matters: family, fresh air, and T-ball season.
Grab a drink. It’s five o’clock somewhere.
 
This episode is brought to you by Searcy Financial. Your financial future begins with a simple question: Where do you want to be? At Searcy Financial, we help successful individuals and families through our mission to simplify your financial journey, empowering you to enjoy life and wealth on your terms. The question sparks a conversation that goes beyond numbers, helping us understand what truly matters to you and the kind of financial plan that aligns with your life goals. It also allows us to identify potential challenges and opportunities so we can proactively address them. The outcome is a plan that empowers you to acquire, grow, and preserve your wealth.
Searcy Financial is celebrating 50 years of service. Don’t miss out on any of the excitement! To sign up for information on Marc’s book, “One for All,” including where to buy and exclusive website content, or to sign up for the Searcy Financial Wealth Matters email newsletter, use the links below:
- Marc's Book "One for All": Keep Me Updated!
- "Wealth Matters" newsletter: Sign Me Up!
 
The opinions expressed herein are those of certain Searcy Financial Services, Inc. personnel and are subject to change without notice. The opinions referenced are as of the date of publication and are subject to revision due to changes in the market or economic conditions and may not necessarily come to pass. Any opinions, promotion, endorsement, projections, or forward-looking statements expressed herein are solely those of the author, may differ from the views or opinions expressed by other areas of the firm, and are only for general informational purposes as of the date indicated. Searcy Financial Services, Inc. was not compensated, nor are there material conflicts of interest that would affect the given statement. 

This episode was originally released under The Corporate Couch podcast series in February 2026
In this February edition of It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere, Marc Shaffer and I pull up a couple of barstools and let you eavesdrop on a conversation that ranges from Kansas City networking rooms to Florida marinas, from Super Bowl parties to superhero costumes.
We kick things off with our new Kansas City business community, “The Table,” a curated group of leaders focused not just on swapping business cards, but actually helping each other make money and grow. It’s intentional. It’s selective. And it’s already expanding our circles in ways that matter. 
From there, the stories start flowing:
A college senior who read Marc’s book flew himself to Kansas City and offered to volunteer before even interviewing.
A February walking meeting through I-Lan Park because “why sit inside?”
The ripple effect of writing, speaking, and putting your ideas into the world.
Super Bowl parties where no one really watches the game.
X-Men marathons, Comic-Con possibilities, and why Wolverine might be the real MVP.
We also talk about growth on multiple fronts. Marc’s firm is hiring ahead of demand to protect culture and service. He’s diving deeper into KPIs and strategic finance. I share what I’m reading, including lessons from entrepreneurs who built big, gave generously, and kept things simple.
On the community front, we spotlight:
The upcoming rebrand and Kentucky Derby fundraiser for Growing Futures.
The Wabash Cannonball event.
Worthy’s pop-up bar.
And the ongoing power of connecting good people to good people.
As always, this episode is less “corporate speak” and more happy hour honesty. What’s working. Who we’re meeting. What we’re reading. What we’re building. And how a little boldness, generosity, and consistency can compound in surprising ways.
Grab your favorite beverage. It’s five o’clock somewhere.
 
This episode is brought to you by Searcy Financial. Your financial future begins with a simple question: Where do you want to be? At Searcy Financial, we help successful individuals and families through our mission to simplify your financial journey, empowering you to enjoy life and wealth on your terms. The question sparks a conversation that goes beyond numbers, helping us understand what truly matters to you and the kind of financial plan that aligns with your life goals. It also allows us to identify potential challenges and opportunities so we can proactively address them. The outcome is a plan that empowers you to acquire, grow, and preserve your wealth.
Searcy Financial is celebrating 50 years of service. Don’t miss out on any of the excitement! To sign up for information on Marc’s book, “One for All,” including where to buy and exclusive website content, or to sign up for the Searcy Financial Wealth Matters email newsletter, use the links below:
- Marc's Book "One for All": Keep Me Updated!
- "Wealth Matters" newsletter: Sign Me Up!
 
The opinions expressed herein are those of certain Searcy Financial Services, Inc. personnel and are subject to change without notice. The opinions referenced are as of the date of publication and are subject to revision due to changes in the market or economic conditions and may not necessarily come to pass. Any opinions, promotion, endorsement, projections, or forward-looking statements expressed herein are solely those of the author, may differ from the views or opinions expressed by other areas of the firm, and are only for general informational purposes as of the date indicated. Searcy Financial Services, Inc. was not compensated, nor are there material conflicts of interest that would affect the given statement.

​This episode was originally released under The Corporate Couch podcast series in January 2026
The first It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere of the new year felt less like goal setting and more like catching up with a friend who knows you well enough to keep it real.
In this January conversation, Marc Shaffer and I ease into 2026 by talking about what actually matters when the calendar flips: health, energy, relationships, and letting go of the pressure to start the year at full throttle. We swap stories about holiday parties that got a little bigger than expected, birthdays for four-year-olds, bourbon tastings, Guinness on tap, and the quiet week between Christmas and New Year’s that never quite goes according to plan.
We also dive into:
Reframing health goals beyond the gym and focusing on how you feel
The difference between being busy and being in flow
Mid-career shifts from building to maintaining without burning out
New experiences with meditation and energy work, and what surprised us most
Speaking goals, books coming to life in audio form, and unexpected feedback from listeners
Why slowing down, creating space, and being present might be the smartest way to start the year
As always, the conversation wanders in the best way, touching on family, work, giving back, creativity, and the power of staying connected. It’s a relaxed, honest start to the year and a reminder that progress doesn’t always come from pushing harder.
Pull up a chair. It’s always 5 o’clock somewhere :-)
 
This episode is brought to you by Searcy Financial. Your financial future begins with a simple question: Where do you want to be? At Searcy Financial, we help successful individuals and families through our mission to simplify your financial journey, empowering you to enjoy life and wealth on your terms. The question sparks a conversation that goes beyond numbers, helping us understand what truly matters to you and the kind of financial plan that aligns with your life goals. It also allows us to identify potential challenges and opportunities so we can proactively address them. The outcome is a plan that empowers you to acquire, grow, and preserve your wealth.
Searcy Financial is celebrating 50 years of service. Don’t miss out on any of the excitement! To sign up for information on Marc’s book, “One for All,” including where to buy and exclusive website content, or to sign up for the Searcy Financial Wealth Matters email newsletter, use the links below:
- Marc's Book "One for All": Keep Me Updated!
- "Wealth Matters" newsletter: Sign Me Up!
 
The opinions expressed herein are those of certain Searcy Financial Services, Inc. personnel and are subject to change without notice. The opinions referenced are as of the date of publication and are subject to revision due to changes in the market or economic conditions and may not necessarily come to pass. Any opinions, promotion, endorsement, projections, or forward-looking statements expressed herein are solely those of the author, may differ from the views or opinions expressed by other areas of the firm, and are only for general informational purposes as of the date indicated. Searcy Financial Services, Inc. was not compensated, nor are there material conflicts of interest that would affect the given statement.

This episode was originally released under The Corporate Couch podcast series in December 2025
In this December edition of It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere, Marc Shaffer and I wrap up the year the only way we know how by catching up like old friends over a wide-ranging, unscripted conversation that blends business, life, laughter, and reflection.
We talk about the blur between November and December, holiday parties, birthdays, book parties (not book launches), and the reality of trying to slow down during the busiest time of the year (including Jeff's Reiki session). Marc shares what he’s learning through his Acumen peer group, why trusted circles matter more than ever, and how seeing behind the curtain as a financial planner reshapes how he thinks about success, wealth, and priorities. Jeff shares
The conversation also touches on:
Creating time wealth and why “slowing down” is a serious goal for 2026
Books that are shaping our thinking, including simple sketches that reframe money and meaning
Giving back through organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters and Growing Futures
The power of small connections, unexpected introductions, and Kansas City’s culture of generosity
Meditation streaks, habits, golf goals, and why being present matters more than being productive
New family traditions, travel dreams, and what unplugging actually looks like.
As always, it’s a mix of thoughtful insights, honest self-reflection, and a few laughs along the way, exactly what a December happy hour conversation should be.
Pull up a chair, take a breath, and enjoy this end-of-year conversation. It’s always 5 o’clock somewhere!
 
This episode is brought to you by Searcy Financial. Your financial future begins with a simple question: Where do you want to be? At Searcy Financial, we help successful individuals and families through our mission to simplify your financial journey, empowering you to enjoy life and wealth on your terms. The question sparks a conversation that goes beyond numbers, helping us understand what truly matters to you and the kind of financial plan that aligns with your life goals. It also allows us to identify potential challenges and opportunities so we can proactively address them. The outcome is a plan that empowers you to acquire, grow, and preserve your wealth.
Searcy Financial is celebrating 50 years of service. Don’t miss out on any of the excitement! To sign up for information on Marc’s book, “One for All,” including where to buy and exclusive website content, or to sign up for the Searcy Financial Wealth Matters email newsletter, use the links below:
- Marc's Book "One for All": Keep Me Updated!
- "Wealth Matters" newsletter: Sign Me Up!
 
The opinions expressed herein are those of certain Searcy Financial Services, Inc. personnel and are subject to change without notice. The opinions referenced are as of the date of publication and are subject to revision due to changes in the market or economic conditions and may not necessarily come to pass. Any opinions, promotion, endorsement, projections, or forward-looking statements expressed herein are solely those of the author, may differ from the views or opinions expressed by other areas of the firm, and are only for general informational purposes as of the date indicated. Searcy Financial Services, Inc. was not compensated, nor are there material conflicts of interest that would affect the given statement.

This episode was originally released under The Corporate Couch podcast series in November 2025
Nov 25, 2025
It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere – Goals, Gratitude, and Getting Ready for 2026 with Marc Shaffer
 
 
 
In this November edition of It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere, Marc Shaffer and I trade year-end reflections, fresh goals, and a few laughs as we wrap up 2025 and look toward the year ahead.
Marc kicks things off with a big reveal of his word for 2026 and shares how health, proactivity, and a soon-to-be scheduled executive physical have moved to the top of his priority list. We talk about the value of choosing a “word of the year,” why intentional planning should start long before December, and the role his long-time life coach has played in shaping his annual reset process.
We also cover:
The art of simplifying goals and actually sticking to them
Why Marc’s assistant Amy might be the MVP of the year
The magic of handwritten cards (and how Marc systemizes kindness with SendOutCards)
Holiday plans, family photos, and the value of slowing down
Books we’re reading from digital assets to leadership
Searcy Financial’s upcoming 50th anniversary celebration
And the impact of Giving Tuesday, including Marc’s work with Wabash Cannonball
This episode is equal parts practical and warm, a blend of goal-setting, personal stories, and the reminder that connection, consistency, and gratitude matter more than ever this time of year.
Pull up a chair, pour a glass of whatever feels right… It’s all part of the 5 o’clock philosophy.
 
This episode is brought to you by Searcy Financial. Your financial future begins with a simple question: Where do you want to be? At Searcy Financial, we help successful individuals and families through our mission to simplify your financial journey, empowering you to enjoy life and wealth on your terms. The question sparks a conversation that goes beyond numbers, helping us understand what truly matters to you and the kind of financial plan that aligns with your life goals. It also allows us to identify potential challenges and opportunities so we can proactively address them. The outcome is a plan that empowers you to acquire, grow, and preserve your wealth.
Searcy Financial is celebrating 50 years of service. Don’t miss out on any of the excitement! To sign up for information on Marc’s book, “One for All,” including where to buy and exclusive website content, or to sign up for the Searcy Financial Wealth Matters email newsletter, use the links below:
- Marc's Book "One for All": Keep Me Updated!
- "Wealth Matters" newsletter: Sign Me Up!
 
The opinions expressed herein are those of certain Searcy Financial Services, Inc. personnel and are subject to change without notice. The opinions referenced are as of the date of publication and are subject to revision due to changes in the market or economic conditions and may not necessarily come to pass. Any opinions, promotion, endorsement, projections, or forward-looking statements expressed herein are solely those of the author, may differ from the views or opinions expressed by other areas of the firm, and are only for general informational purposes as of the date indicated. Searcy Financial Services, Inc. was not compensated, nor are there material conflicts of interest that would affect the given statement.

This episode was originally released under The Corporate Couch podcast series in October 2025
In this eighth Special Edition of It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere, Marc Shaffer and I raise a glass to reflect on his whirlwind first month after the launch of his debut book, One For All: How to Systemize Kindness, Grow Your Network, and Support Others Like It’s Your Job.
We talk about what he’s learned since releasing the book, from reading his own audiobook (“harder than it sounds”) to connecting with students at KU and Mizzou and maybe even starting a friendly campus competition. Marc also shares how he uses templates, CRMs, and even AI to stay on top of hundreds of introductions and follow-ups, proving that connection and consistency can coexist.
The conversation takes a personal turn as we talk about Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the passing of Marc’s mother, and his father’s ongoing health journey. We also dive into the power of one-on-one conversations, why he tracks “friendly coffees,” and how joining peer and faith-based business groups has reignited his sense of purpose.
It’s a conversation about gratitude, growth, and the systems and people that make it all work.
Pull up a chair (and maybe a pink shirt), it’s always 5 o’clock somewhere!
 
This episode is brought to you by Searcy Financial. Your financial future begins with a simple question: Where do you want to be? At Searcy Financial, we help successful individuals and families through our mission to simplify your financial journey, empowering you to enjoy life and wealth on your terms. The question sparks a conversation that goes beyond numbers, helping us understand what truly matters to you and the kind of financial plan that aligns with your life goals. It also allows us to identify potential challenges and opportunities so we can proactively address them. The outcome is a plan that empowers you to acquire, grow, and preserve your wealth.
Searcy Financial is celebrating 50 years of service. Don’t miss out on any of the excitement! To sign up for information on Marc’s book, “One for All,” including where to buy and exclusive website content, or to sign up for the Searcy Financial Wealth Matters email newsletter, use the links below:
- Marc's Book "One for All": Keep Me Updated!
- "Wealth Matters" newsletter: Sign Me Up!
 
The opinions expressed herein are those of certain Searcy Financial Services, Inc. personnel and are subject to change without notice. The opinions referenced are as of the date of publication and are subject to revision due to changes in the market or economic conditions and may not necessarily come to pass. Any opinions, promotion, endorsement, projections, or forward-looking statements expressed herein are solely those of the author, may differ from the views or opinions expressed by other areas of the firm, and are only for general informational purposes as of the date indicated. Searcy Financial Services, Inc. was not compensated, nor are there material conflicts of interest that would affect the given statement. 

This episode was originally released under The Corporate Couch podcast series in September 2025
 
In this special edition, the spotlight is on Marc Shaffer and his debut book, One For All: How to Systemize Kindness, Grow Your Network, and Support Others Like It’s Your Job. With the official launch set for September 30, Marc shares the inspiration behind the book, the process of bringing it to life, and the lessons he hopes readers will take away.
We talk about:
Why relationship-building shouldn’t be an afterthought and how to make it a daily habit.
The Irish proverb that captures the spirit of the book: “You hand it out in slices, and it comes back in loaves.”
Why “follow-through” is one of the most underrated (and underused) skills in business.
How mentoring younger professionals, like those on his own team, shaped the writing process.
The role of systems in making generosity and connection sustainable, not sporadic.
From stories of mentorship and community building to practical templates and takeaways, Marc’s book and this conversation offer a blueprint for anyone who wants to build authentic relationships and pay kindness forward in business and in life.
 
This episode is brought to you by Searcy Financial. Your financial future begins with a simple question: Where do you want to be? At Searcy Financial, we help successful individuals and families through our mission to simplify your financial journey, empowering you to enjoy life and wealth on your terms. The question sparks a conversation that goes beyond numbers, helping us understand what truly matters to you and the kind of financial plan that aligns with your life goals. It also allows us to identify potential challenges and opportunities so we can proactively address them. The outcome is a plan that empowers you to acquire, grow, and preserve your wealth.
Searcy Financial is celebrating 50 years of service. Don’t miss out on any of the excitement! To sign up for information on Marc’s book, “One for All,” including where to buy and exclusive website content, or to sign up for the Searcy Financial Wealth Matters email newsletter, use the links below:
- Marc's Book "One for All": Keep Me Updated!
- "Wealth Matters" newsletter: Sign Me Up!
 
The opinions expressed herein are those of certain Searcy Financial Services, Inc. personnel and are subject to change without notice. The opinions referenced are as of the date of publication and are subject to revision due to changes in the market or economic conditions and may not necessarily come to pass. Any opinions, promotion, endorsement, projections, or forward-looking statements expressed herein are solely those of the author, may differ from the views or opinions expressed by other areas of the firm, and are only for general informational purposes as of the date indicated. Searcy Financial Services, Inc. was not compensated, nor are there material conflicts of interest that would affect the given statement.