Jason has prospered over 20 years as research director for a privately owned medical device company. He was granted 10,000 shares of phantom stock, now worth $150 per share. The value of this phantom stock, at $1.5 million, is now his largest asset. The founder is retiring and Jason has been tapped as chief operating officer. The company is being sold to a private owner, which will trigger a liquidity event.

Grit and determination and a long career in consumer solutions have led Gwen to her current role as president of a high-end fashion retail company.* Two retail companies are now courting Gwen for the CEO position she's been tracking toward for years. While the offers present similar salaries, one offers significant wealth potential through performance-based stock awards.

At 54, Marco’s career has progressed beyond his expectations*, as a well-compensated president of a biotech firm. The board has voted to relocate the company to the Midwest next year. He is weighing several options. He can either move his family – his wife and 16-year old daughter; commute each week to the Midwest; or “retire” of his own will and pursue some other dreams, goals and plans.

Many executives face college educations to pay for while they are simultaneously accumulating wealth for retirement. They can’t count on financial aid, and college costs could range upwards of $25,000-70,000 per year.

Gregory, 62, is a corporate vice president whose recent health issues have caused him to consider accelerating his retirement date. Will he need to work a few more years or, given the value of his assets including holdings in his company’s Restricted Stock Units, has he reached the point of financial independence?