About Us
OUR MISSION
Empowering Individuals
and Businesses to Achieve Financial Sovereignty
At Downstream Wealth, we believe that financial sovereignty is a cornerstone of personal and economic freedom. Our mission is to guide and support a diverse range of clients—including small business owners, families, investors, entrepreneurs, and young business professionals—on their journey to financial success. We are passionate about helping small businesses thrive, but our commitment extends to all who seek to build wealth, achieve financial independence, and monetize value.
In a world where Wall Street often prioritizes shareholders over customers, we stand firmly with those who seek to create genuine value. We believe that wealth is best measured as a reflection of value delivered to customers and communities. Small businesses and independent entrepreneurs—rooted in empathy, individualism, competition, and accountability—form the bedrock of the American economy. Our mission is to help them not only regain financial control but also grow their enterprises, monetize their skills and knowledge, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of millions of Americans.
In a world where Wall Street often prioritizes shareholders over customers, we stand firmly with those who seek to create genuine value. We believe that wealth is best measured as a reflection of value delivered to customers and communities. Small businesses and independent entrepreneurs—rooted in empathy, individualism, competition, and accountability—form the bedrock of the American economy. Our mission is to help them not only regain financial control but also grow their enterprises, monetize their skills and knowledge, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of millions of Americans.
OUR VISION
A Legacy of Financial Freedom for Generations
We envision a world where financial sovereignty is not just a goal but a way of life—where individuals and businesses of all sizes have the knowledge, confidence, and resources to achieve their dreams. Our vision is to be the trusted partner that empowers small business owners, families, investors, entrepreneurs, and young professionals to transform their financial futures.
At Downstream Wealth, we see beyond numbers. We see stories of perseverance, innovation, and growth. Our goal is to create a ripple effect—where the financial success of our clients leads to stronger communities, greater opportunities, and lasting prosperity for generations to come. We aim to reshape the financial landscape, offering an alternative to Wall Street’s profit-first mentality by championing value creation, personalized guidance, and a commitment to those who build, invest, and strive.
At Downstream Wealth, we see beyond numbers. We see stories of perseverance, innovation, and growth. Our goal is to create a ripple effect—where the financial success of our clients leads to stronger communities, greater opportunities, and lasting prosperity for generations to come. We aim to reshape the financial landscape, offering an alternative to Wall Street’s profit-first mentality by championing value creation, personalized guidance, and a commitment to those who build, invest, and strive.
SUB HEADLINE
Our Principles
Financial Sovereignty
We believe real freedom begins with control—especially over your capital. As a business owner, entrepreneur, or professional, you are best equipped to make decisions that align with your goals. Our approach to Infinite Banking isn’t about locking you into a system—it’s about unlocking one. We help you take control by designing private, tax-advantaged capital structures that let you operate independently, not dependently.
Free Markets & Enterprise
Small business is the engine of economic growth—but every year, increased regulation and centralization make it harder to build, produce, and prosper. We align with America’s founding economic principles: free exchange, limited interference, and ownership of the fruits of your labor. Through Infinite Banking, clients reclaim the ability to direct their own capital, bypass financial gatekeepers, and grow on their terms—whether they’re running a business, managing a household, or planning their future.
Empathy & Long-Term Value Creation
We reject the idea that maximizing short-term shareholder value should come at the expense of people. Our clients aren’t numbers—they're families, founders, and professionals with a vision. We help you build financial strategies rooted in empathy and long-term thinking—systems that prioritize value creation, stability, and legacy. Whether you're building a company or protecting your household, our mission is to put you in control for the long haul.
Austrian Economics & Capital Stewardship
Modern economic thinking rewards consumption and debt. We believe in a different path: one that begins with saving, discipline, and stewardship. Grounded in Austrian economic principles, Infinite Banking allows clients to create their own private banking systems—preserving capital, enabling production, and reducing reliance on institutions. Whether you’re a small business owner or an investor, the path to sustainable wealth begins with controlling and directing your own cash flow.
OUR FOUNDERS
Meet the Team
Chad Holstlaw
Authorized IBC Practitioner, CEPA®
Co-Founder & Business Consultant
Co-Founder & Business Consultant
Chad Holstlaw is a strategic business consultant and Authorized IBC Practitioner who helps small business owners achieve long-term financial independence through the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC). His work centers on empowering entrepreneurs to take control of their capital, reduce financial stress, and build sustainable wealth outside conventional systems.
With a strong foundation in Austrian economics and a deep belief in the value of savings and capital formation, Chad was drawn to IBC as a powerful tool for those who want to create and protect wealth on their own terms. He recognized that small businesses—often underserved by mainstream financial solutions—deserve access to strategies that prioritize liquidity, autonomy, and long-range thinking.
Chad became certified through the Nelson Nash Institute to guide others in using IBC to structure personal and business finances in a way that supports growth, stability, and legacy planning. His mission is to educate and equip business owners with a system that offers clarity, control, and confidence in an increasingly complex financial world.
Today, Chad works with entrepreneurs who want to break free from external dependency, implement proven financial frameworks, and build lasting wealth aligned with their goals and values.
With a strong foundation in Austrian economics and a deep belief in the value of savings and capital formation, Chad was drawn to IBC as a powerful tool for those who want to create and protect wealth on their own terms. He recognized that small businesses—often underserved by mainstream financial solutions—deserve access to strategies that prioritize liquidity, autonomy, and long-range thinking.
Chad became certified through the Nelson Nash Institute to guide others in using IBC to structure personal and business finances in a way that supports growth, stability, and legacy planning. His mission is to educate and equip business owners with a system that offers clarity, control, and confidence in an increasingly complex financial world.
Today, Chad works with entrepreneurs who want to break free from external dependency, implement proven financial frameworks, and build lasting wealth aligned with their goals and values.
Dave Swanson
Authorized IBC Practitioner, CEPA®
Co-Founder & Business Consultant
Co-Founder & Business Consultant
Dave Swanson is a seasoned business consultant and Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA®) with a passion for empowering individuals and businesses through strategic financial transformation. With over a decade of experience in commercial insurance and financial services, Dave grew disillusioned with the conventional financial wisdom that rarely delivered long-term results for clients.
His discovery of the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC) was a turning point. Unlike the traditional model—save 10%, gamble in the markets, pay fees to manage your money, and lose a third of your income to interest—IBC offered a radically different approach. Intrigued, Dave spent nearly two years scrutinizing the model, determined to find its flaws. Instead, he found a strategy that consistently addressed the financial pain points his clients were facing.
In 2017, he left the corporate world behind and became an Authorized IBC Practitioner through the Nelson Nash Institute. He calls it the best career decision he’s ever made.
Since then, Dave has guided hundreds of individuals and business owners in implementing IBC to take control of their cash flow, eliminate high-interest debt, finance real estate and major purchases, invest in private equity, and build tax-free retirement income—all while creating a lasting generational legacy. His work centers on giving clients the tools and strategies to become their own banker and reclaim control of their financial future.
His discovery of the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC) was a turning point. Unlike the traditional model—save 10%, gamble in the markets, pay fees to manage your money, and lose a third of your income to interest—IBC offered a radically different approach. Intrigued, Dave spent nearly two years scrutinizing the model, determined to find its flaws. Instead, he found a strategy that consistently addressed the financial pain points his clients were facing.
In 2017, he left the corporate world behind and became an Authorized IBC Practitioner through the Nelson Nash Institute. He calls it the best career decision he’s ever made.
Since then, Dave has guided hundreds of individuals and business owners in implementing IBC to take control of their cash flow, eliminate high-interest debt, finance real estate and major purchases, invest in private equity, and build tax-free retirement income—all while creating a lasting generational legacy. His work centers on giving clients the tools and strategies to become their own banker and reclaim control of their financial future.
Reviews
What Our Clients Say
Our unique privatized banking solutions empower you to take control of your wealth. Experience financial freedom with tailored strategies designed for your success.
I was introduced to the Infinite Banking Concept when a friend recommended that I read Nelson Nash’s book "Becoming Your Own Banker.” I was amazed at how it worked. I eventually reached out to Dave at Downstream Wealth. He took the time to help me understand IBC in a way that was faithful to the way Nelson presented it in the book, and Dave designed a policy that tailored to my needs. I already had a Whole Life policy, but it was not a designed for IBC. It's been amazing how well my policy has aligned with my goal of eliminating the need for traditional banks. Downstream prioritized education and understanding before jumping into my first IBC policy. It can seem scary because you really do have to change the way you think.
I thank God I learned about this concept early in my career, so I didn't have as much of the outside noise and "unlearning" to do before taking the leap. I've been spending the last 5 years capitalizing my policy and now it's getting to the fun part where I’m able to truly be the banker in my life. I am confident in my future financial security, and thankful I won’t be paying hundreds of thousands of dollars in interest to traditional banks and lenders. I’m thankful there are honest and transparent guys like Dave and Chad at Downstream Wealth when so many agents use IBC as a marketing and sales concept. I recommend them 10,000%!!!
I thank God I learned about this concept early in my career, so I didn't have as much of the outside noise and "unlearning" to do before taking the leap. I've been spending the last 5 years capitalizing my policy and now it's getting to the fun part where I’m able to truly be the banker in my life. I am confident in my future financial security, and thankful I won’t be paying hundreds of thousands of dollars in interest to traditional banks and lenders. I’m thankful there are honest and transparent guys like Dave and Chad at Downstream Wealth when so many agents use IBC as a marketing and sales concept. I recommend them 10,000%!!!
J
Joel M – Illinois
I wish I had known Infinite banking existed many years ago! Once Dave and Chad at Downstream Wealth explained it, it made SO much sense. This approach to growing wealth and achieving financial freedom resonated with me from the start. I wanted a way to build wealth that I could access when needed and eventually pass on to the next generation-without being beholden to traditional financial institutions.
Dave and Chad were friendly, professional, and patient, walking me through every step and answering all my questions about how the system works. They helped me set up a policy tailored to my goals within my budget, always being encouraging and transparent throughout the process.
Now, the system is working exactly as they described. I’m excited to see my policy grow into a powerful tool for achieving financial independence for me and my family. Infinite Banking has given me control, liquidity, and the ability to grow my wealth tax-advantaged, all while protecting my legacy. I would highly recommend Downstream Wealth to anyone exploring how to be financially independent and who wants to protect their wealth. This is a strategy that truly puts you in control of your financial future.
Dave and Chad were friendly, professional, and patient, walking me through every step and answering all my questions about how the system works. They helped me set up a policy tailored to my goals within my budget, always being encouraging and transparent throughout the process.
Now, the system is working exactly as they described. I’m excited to see my policy grow into a powerful tool for achieving financial independence for me and my family. Infinite Banking has given me control, liquidity, and the ability to grow my wealth tax-advantaged, all while protecting my legacy. I would highly recommend Downstream Wealth to anyone exploring how to be financially independent and who wants to protect their wealth. This is a strategy that truly puts you in control of your financial future.
J
Adrienne – Nevada
I was tired of thinking about the word “retirement” and had this gnawing feeling that the typical plans offered to the public were not in OUR best interests. It’s a business, just like everything else. We all want to work smarter, not harder and who doesn’t want to retire as young as possible? I had invested in so many ways…did the Roth IRA having money pulled from my check, then decided to just stop that and take my “post tax” money and purchase gold, then silver, crypto, cash, and then finally just had a little of everything to diversify with no real direction because I just don’t trust the “system”. Met up with one of my mentor/family friends who told me about Infinite Banking Concept. Ahhh WHAT?? Hearing that I could be my own “bank” sounded appealing. We know banks are profitable because they collect our interest and compound our money.
And, now I was able to have what they had, but not only that, I could keep reusing my money over and over without giving up the growth, then I could pass it on to my kids and future generations. WHAT?!?! Impossible. Nope! These are just a few of the IBC benefits. I reached out to Downstream and the rest is history. It is SO COMFORTING knowing that my family will be set financially for generations to come. I review my plans and goals with them regularly about my finances and it’s SO exciting to see where we are five years in and what our future looks like. It’s a brilliant concept that not enough people know about, and it works! No more money stress this side!
And, now I was able to have what they had, but not only that, I could keep reusing my money over and over without giving up the growth, then I could pass it on to my kids and future generations. WHAT?!?! Impossible. Nope! These are just a few of the IBC benefits. I reached out to Downstream and the rest is history. It is SO COMFORTING knowing that my family will be set financially for generations to come. I review my plans and goals with them regularly about my finances and it’s SO exciting to see where we are five years in and what our future looks like. It’s a brilliant concept that not enough people know about, and it works! No more money stress this side!
J
Malissa – Florida
I tried for years to grasp the Infinite Banking Concept but found myself more confused by the videos I watched on social media and what other people told me. When I started working with Downstream, they patiently explained IBC, gave me helpful resources to really learn what it is, and finally removed my confusion. They repeated over and over – “IBC is a PROCESS, not a PRODUCT.” I kept thinking of it as an investment which is why I struggled for so long to comprehend what was actually going on. They encouraged me to reread Nelson Nash’s “Becoming Your Own Banker,” and it finally made sense to me! Once it finally clicked, I was ready to go. After more than 7 years, my family has 5 IBC policies. As we took control of--and leveraged more and more of our savings--we had to keep expanding our system. We’ve used our policies for down payments, taxes, investments, home improvements, and even vacations! We’re IBCers for life, and our kids already have a huge head start! Thank you, Chad and Dave!
J
Cory – Illinois
Working with Downstream was a seamless experience from start to finish. They took the time to listen to my needs and goals, and designed policies that have given me peace of mind. Their expertise, responsiveness, and attention to detail were truly impressive. I highly recommend them to anyone seeking knowledgeable and trustworthy Authorized Infinite Banking Practitioners.
J
Betsy - Arizona
I was initially drawn to the Infinite Banking Concept out of a desire for more control over my finances and to find an alternative to traditional savings and investment strategies. Downstream Wealth made the process easy to understand by walking me through every step and tailoring the plan to my family’s goals.
Before getting started, I had concerns about how the policies worked and whether it was too good to be true, but they answered all my questions clearly and with transparency. Since implementing Infinite Banking, my experience has been very positive—I’ve gained a better understanding of how to use my money strategically and have already started leveraging my policy for opportunities.
The biggest benefits have been the ability to grow my wealth while still having access to capital when I need it, along with peace of mind knowing I’m building a long-term financial foundation. I would definitely recommend Downstream Wealth to others looking for a smarter and more flexible way to manage their money.
Before getting started, I had concerns about how the policies worked and whether it was too good to be true, but they answered all my questions clearly and with transparency. Since implementing Infinite Banking, my experience has been very positive—I’ve gained a better understanding of how to use my money strategically and have already started leveraging my policy for opportunities.
The biggest benefits have been the ability to grow my wealth while still having access to capital when I need it, along with peace of mind knowing I’m building a long-term financial foundation. I would definitely recommend Downstream Wealth to others looking for a smarter and more flexible way to manage their money.
J
Todd P - Missouri
NEED HELP
Frequently Asked Questions
At Downstream Wealth, we specialize in helping small business owners, startups, and families build financial autonomy through personalized strategies like Infinite Banking. These FAQs are designed to give you deeper insight into how our approach works and how it can transform your capital into a long-term wealth-building system. Whether you're new to privatized banking or ready to take control of your financial future, you'll find the answers you need here.
What financial strategies does Downstream Wealth offer to help small businesses gain control of their capital?
Downstream Wealth specializes in private capital strategies, primarily the Infinite Banking Concept, which empowers small businesses to control how their money is used and grown. Instead of relying on banks or external lenders for capital, your business funnels cash into a specially structured whole life insurance policy that builds tax-advantaged cash value. You can then borrow against that value for business operations, expansion, or emergencies, while your policy continues to grow. This eliminates the need for loan approvals, credit checks, or interest payments to banks. Everything is supported by a strategy customized to your company’s cash flow and long-term financial goals.
How does the Downstream Wealth Financial Coaching service support my long-term wealth goals?
Financial Coaching at Downstream Wealth is a continuous relationship, not a one-time consultation. You receive personalized, one-on-one coaching where you learn how to interpret financial data, assess your business’s performance, and make strategic decisions. The coaching also teaches you how to integrate Infinite Banking into your operations, manage your policy loans wisely, and align your financial habits with your long-term vision. Regular touchpoints and progress reviews ensure that your financial strategy remains responsive to market changes, business growth, and personal milestones. It is a results-driven, educational approach that builds financial independence over time.
What role does small business capital growth play in Downstream Wealth’s offerings?
Downstream Wealth helps businesses transform stagnant capital into productive financial assets. Whether your business is in the startup phase or already established, you may have capital that is sitting idle or tied up inefficiently. Downstream’s approach redirects that money into an Infinite Banking structure, turning it into a private, compounding capital system. This system can then be used to finance inventory, operations, or expansion, while still earning uninterrupted growth inside the policy. This strategy gives business owners the ability to self-finance growth, reduce interest payments to outside lenders, and maintain control of their working capital.
What is the Downstream Wealth process from discovery to custom strategy?
The process begins with a Discovery Call where your financial objectives, business structure, and lifestyle goals are discussed in detail. After the call, you’ll submit your financial data securely using Proton Drive. The Downstream team will then analyze your cash flow, assets, liabilities, and goals. Based on this analysis, they create three custom financial strategy scenarios: Conservative, Moderate, and Aggressive. Each model outlines how an Infinite Banking system could perform under different funding levels. After reviewing the options, you’ll choose a strategy and receive a tailored quote. Implementation begins once you’re fully comfortable and confident.
How does Infinite Banking grow private capital while preserving liquidity?
With Infinite Banking, your policy’s cash value grows at a guaranteed rate and may receive dividends, creating a predictable and tax-advantaged capital base. At the same time, you can borrow from that cash value whenever needed. Even while funds are borrowed, the remaining cash value continues to grow as if untouched. This makes Infinite Banking unique among wealth strategies. You can use your money for real-world needs such as investments, payroll, or debt payoff, without sacrificing the compounding growth of your capital. This balance between growth and liquidity makes Infinite Banking ideal for entrepreneurs and business owners.
Can Infinite Banking support both personal and business financial goals simultaneously?
Yes, Infinite Banking is flexible enough to serve both personal and business needs at the same time. Your policy’s cash value can be accessed for business expansion or unexpected expenses, while still serving as a personal financial safety net. Many business owners use Infinite Banking to fund operations or capitalize on opportunities and later use the same system for retirement income or family legacy planning. This dual-purpose design helps ensure that your financial strategy is working for every part of your life, without needing to separate personal and business capital into isolated systems.
How does Downstream Wealth ensure the strategy is tailored to different risk preferences?
Every client has a unique comfort level when it comes to risk and investment pace. Downstream Wealth addresses this by presenting three strategy scenarios based on your financial data: Conservative, Moderate, and Aggressive. Each one outlines different premium structures, growth projections, access to capital, and long-term benefits. You are never locked into a one-size-fits-all plan. Instead, you are guided through the pros and cons of each option so you can select a strategy that fits your goals, whether you prioritize safety, steady growth, or faster access to capital.
How does Infinite Banking align with values like financial sovereignty and Austrian economics?
Infinite Banking supports values like financial sovereignty, free enterprise, and capital stewardship by allowing individuals and businesses to control their own financial destiny. Rather than depending on banks, credit institutions, or government-driven systems, you create a self-funded capital structure that reflects personal responsibility and long-term thinking. This aligns closely with Austrian economics, which emphasizes sound money, personal ownership, and sustainable growth. Infinite Banking gives you the power to make financial decisions based on logic and long-term value rather than reactive behavior or dependency on external institutions.
What ongoing support does Downstream Wealth provide after implementation?
Downstream Wealth offers continuous support long after your policy is active. You receive regular reviews of your policy’s performance, coaching on policy loan strategies, and guidance on how to integrate Infinite Banking into your evolving financial picture. Whether you’re scaling your business, planning an exit, or entering retirement, the strategy adjusts with you. You will also receive updates and refinements based on changing tax laws, economic shifts, or business milestones. This ongoing relationship ensures your financial system is always aligned with your goals and that you continue to use it with confidence and clarity.
How do I begin working with Downstream Wealth on an Infinite Banking strategy?
Starting with Downstream Wealth is straightforward. You begin by scheduling a free Discovery Call, during which you’ll share your goals, challenges, and business situation. After the call, you submit your financial data securely, which the team uses to create three personalized strategy options. You’ll review and discuss each scenario, then select the one that best fits your financial vision. From there, Downstream helps you implement the strategy step by step, providing ongoing support and education. To take the first step, visit the Contact Page and schedule your consultation.
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