The Connected Advisor

Episode 091: Kailash Duraiswami is the Chief Technology Officer at Milemarker, where he leads the development of data infrastructure and AI-powered solutions for modern advisory firms. With a unique blend of financial expertise and deep technical knowledge, Kailash brings his passion for innovation, data strategy, and scalable technology to help wealth management firms thrive in a multi-platform world. In this episode, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Kailash about his unconventional path from launching an RIA straight out of college to building tech that transformed data operations for financial firms. They unpack the challenges firms face with fragmented data, the importance of centralized infrastructure, and how AI will reshape wealth management. They discuss why firms need to reclaim ownership of their data, how to avoid becoming an “accidental CTO,” and how Milemarker is building scalable, simplified tech solutions for advisors navigating a multi-platform, AI-enabled world. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:53) - Kailash's money moment (06:56) - What is Pantenix? (10:10) - The value of a data warehouse (12:31) - Kailash's thoughts on cloud-based infrastructure (14:16) - The importance of data platforms (18:29) - Why becoming a CTO should be intentional (22:30) - AI in wealth management (24:46) - The advantage of building your own language models (31:51) - Why CTOs in RIAs need to understand wealth management (36:02) - Why all-in-one platforms limit user experiences (39:03) - Kailash's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Centralize your data to maximize AI and operational efficiency. Without consolidating your firm's data into a single, accessible environment, it's nearly impossible to generate meaningful insights or leverage AI effectively. Fragmented data limits your ability to scale and innovate. You don't have to become an “accidental CTO”. Many firm leaders end up spending too much time wrestling with tech. Outsourcing specialized functions—like data architecture and infrastructure—can free up your time to focus on clients and growth, while still driving innovation. Owning your data is not the same as using cloud-based tools. Just because your systems are in the cloud doesn't mean you own your data. True ownership means having control over how and where your data is stored, accessed, and used to make decisions. AI is only as smart as the data it has access to. For AI to deliver meaningful outcomes—like intelligent agents or predictive analytics—it needs clean, well-structured, and centralized data. Start with solid infrastructure before diving into advanced AI capabilities. Quotes "What we're doing here, as a help to your technology footprint, is enabling you to see and understand your business in ways you've never done before. And that requires very sophisticated technology." ~ Kailash Duraiswami "You must have your data in one place to really make use of AI because the conclusions that the model can make or the recommendations are all subject to what data is presented to it." ~ Kailash Duraiswami  "The biggest thing we are making here is building a tool that is advisor-centric and executive-centric. And that means simplicity. Above all, the boldness of what we have here is to do less in an excellent way." ~ Kailash Duraiswami  Links  Kailash Duraiswami on LinkedIn Orion Advisor Solutions Black Diamond Tamarac Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 090: Russ D'Argento serves as Founder & CEO at FINTRX. Prior to founding FINTRX, Russ served as Sr. Consultant of Family Office Marketing and introductions for Windham Capital Group—a 20-year-old consulting firm in the hedge fund space. In this episode, Milemarker Co-Founder Jud Mackrill talks with Russ about how to make financial data more powerful and strategic. Russ shares the origin story of FINTRX—a platform born from his personal struggle navigating the private wealth market. Host Jud Mackrill and Russ discuss how FinTRX evolved from bootstrapped startup to a data intelligence leader with more than 150 employees. They explore the growing demand for actionable, smart data, the role of AI in modern wealth tech, and how FinTRX helps asset managers, advisors, and fundraisers identify and engage the right prospects. Russ also shares what's next for the company and how it's positioning itself at the forefront of the AI-powered wealth transfer wave. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (00:55) - Russ's background and the origins of FINTRX (05:28) - FINTRX's areas of focus for 2025 (07:32) - The evolution of data usage and expectations in the financial industry (11:25) - FINTRX's rapid growth and expansion (14:26) - What lies ahead for FINTRX (19:09) - How to connect with FINTRX Key Takeaways Smart data beats static data. Don't settle for spreadsheets. Today's wealth managers and fundraisers need dynamic, actionable insights—not just names on a list. Tools like FINTRX help surface the right contacts, timing, and context to turn cold outreach into warm, personalized conversations. Build products backward from user pain. Great companies are often started by solving your own problem. Russ built FINTRX by reverse-engineering the solution he wished he had while raising capital—focusing on better data, smarter tech, and a seamless user experience. AI isn't just a buzzword—it's a growth engine. Integrate AI to automate prospecting, clean data, and surface valuable signals without constant manual effort. The future belongs to platforms that anticipate user needs and take action autonomously. Private wealth is evolving. The private wealth space is more sophisticated and influential than ever. As wealth transfers to new generations and advisors, staying ahead with the right intelligence and outreach tools is crucial for capital raising and long-term growth. Quotes "There was a gap in the market and what was available, not only the data but also the breadth of the data, the tech, and how that data was delivered." ~ Russ D'Argento "We want to continue to position ourselves as this wealth transfer happens. We want to continue to position ourselves at the forefront of that private wealth data intelligence market." ~ Russ D'Argento "All we think about every day when we get to the office is how we can improve, iterate, make this thing better and more powerful, and continue our rapid growth." ~ Russ D'Argento Links  Russ D'Argento on LinkedIn FINTRX on LinkedIn FINTRX email FINTRX Orion Advisor Solutions Salesforce Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 089: Molly Weiss, Group President of Wealth Platforms at Envestnet, is a 20-year financial services veteran who drives Envestnet's end-to-end technology and solutions ranging from portfolio management, financial planning, performance reporting, and digital account management tools. Over her tenure at Envestnet, she has played a pivotal role in shaping scalable solutions that empower advisors to serve clients more effectively.  In this episode, Kyle and Molly explore the critical role of configurability in building scalable tech, the evolving landscape of UMA, and how advisors are blending custom portfolio construction with third-party management. Molly shares what's ahead at Envestnet's Elevate conference, how AI will empower—not replace—advisors, and why personalization and access to alternatives are shaping the future of wealth management. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:48) - Molly's money moment (04:20) - Common challenges faced by firms of all sizes (06:09) - Molly's perspective on “scale” in the financial industry (07:50) - What to expect at Envestnet Elevate 2025 (11:48) - How Envestnet leverages third-party asset management (14:52) - The multifaceted role of advisors (18:17) - Managing diverse investment solutions (22:14) - Speakers at the Envestnet Elevate 2025 conference (24:19) - Envestnet's focus on ultra-high-net-worth clients (25:48) - The future of financial advice (30:23) - Molly's thoughts on alternative investments (33:36) - Molly's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways True scalability in advisory tech isn't about one-size-fits-all solutions or endless customization. Instead, it's about creating configurable systems that can adapt to a firm's unique needs without added complexity—allowing both large institutions and small RIAs to grow efficiently. AI won't diminish the advisor's value—it will amplify it. By automating routine tasks and surfacing meaningful insights, AI can free advisors to focus more on high-impact, human-centered work like client relationships, planning, and trust-building. Clients don't just want a 60/40 portfolio; they need guidance through complex life decisions. Advisors are part coach, part therapist, and part strategist. The tech behind the scenes should support that full spectrum of client service. Just as SMAs and UMAs became accessible to more clients over time, the future is about lowering barriers to non-traditional assets. Advisors should prepare to integrate alternatives and illiquid investments into broader portfolios, especially as client demand for diversification and behavioral discipline grows. Quotes "If everything you do is either about customization or one size has to fit all, you can't scale. But if you think about technology as a really configurable set of capabilities, a firm can grow because as they need more, it's already there. It just needs to be configured." ~ Molly Weiss "Part of an advisor's job is translating human problems into something that helps solve those problems. And that includes technology that helps the portfolio management process, taxes, performance, and life events that might change all that and throw it all up in the air." ~ Molly Weiss Links  Molly Weiss on LinkedIn Envestnet Bill Crager Envestnet Elevate 2025 Katty Kay Dennis Moseley-Williams Allistair McCaw Chris Todd Margo's Got Money Troubles Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 088: This week, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Kristen Oziemkowski, COO at The Mather Group. With a background in economics, Kristen brings deep expertise in operational strategy, M&A integration, and organizational growth. Since joining TMG, she has led the firm through 20 successful acquisitions and helped build a values-driven, process-oriented culture.  Kyle and Kristen explore what sets TMG apart in the competitive world of wealth management. Kristen reveals how a team-based model, disciplined acquisition strategy, and robust internship pipeline have powered the firm's consistent growth and five-year run on Barron's Top 100 list. They also discuss the future of the industry—from data strategy and AI integration to attracting the next generation of advisors.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:22) - Kristen's money moment (03:44) - The secret to TMG's consistent success (05:02) - The challenges of leading a growing team (07:59) - Inside TMG's acquisition and integration playbook (11:08) - Tackling the advisor shortage and attracting future talent (13:18) - Turning interns into leaders: TMG's talent pipeline (19:51) - Stewart Mather and his legacy (21:20) - The one skill that accelerates career growth (22:56) - What's next for wealth management (25:55) - Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Successful M&A requires both a robust integration plan and the ability to adapt to unforeseen challenges and emotional factors. Investing in technology and data management is crucial for scalability and efficiency in the wealth management industry. TMG's internship program isn't just about summer help—it's an intentional talent pipeline that has produced some of the firm's top leaders. When thoughtfully designed, internships can be one of the best long-term growth strategies for your team. Networking is key to building meaningful relationships and is essential for career advancement and industry growth. Meaningful connections can open doors to opportunities, partnerships, and career advancements. Quotes "Wealth management is a unique industry, and we're truly helping people. So, I don't think AI, technology, automation, and all these things becoming the forefront of every industry can replace the human touch." ~ Kristen Oziemkowski "The biggest value-adding skill I've learned and has become increasingly important throughout my career is networking. It can open doors to opportunities, partnerships, and projects. It helps you exchange ideas and insights and can be an avenue for advice and support, career guidance, and knowledge building." ~ Kristen Oziemkowski "There's no proxy for building meaningful relationships with people. And you have to be very intentional about going out of your way to network and get to know people." ~ Kristen Oziemkowski Links  Kristen Oziemkowski on LinkedIn The Mather Group Merrill Lynch Stewart Mather Fe league The Obstacle Is The Way Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 087: This week, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Rick Simonetti, CEO and Head of Wealth Planning of Fidelis Capital Partners, to explore what it takes to serve ultra-high-net-worth families with excellence. Rick shares how Fidelis was built on the foundation of faithfulness—delivering on promises through deep collaboration, proactive planning, and personalized service. They discuss the importance of mentorship, family meetings, interdisciplinary teams, and how true success lies in preparing future generations. From structuring internal teams to navigating external partnerships, Rick offers practical wisdom for firms looking to elevate their service model and create lasting impact for their clients. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (02:54) - Rick's money moment (05:50) - CPA firms vs. wealth management: business model breakdown [10:45] - Building collaborative relationships with experts (16:35) - Why “faithfulness” became the foundation of Fidelis (19:40) - Succession by design: mentorship and developing next-gen advisors (26:55) - Crafting custom solutions for ultra-high-net-worth families (32:24) - The power of integration: inside Fidelis' team-based model (36:30) - How Fidelis earns trust and referrals from ultra-high-net-worth clients (42:32) - Rick's outlook on the future of serving ultra-high-net-worth clients  (46:29) - Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Financial plans don't fail because they were poorly designed—they fail because they weren't maintained, optimized, or passed on well. Advisors should prioritize family meetings and mentorship to ensure heirs are ready to step into leadership when the time comes. Wealth managers don't have to do it all in-house. In fact, creating strong, collaborative relationships with attorneys and CPAs leads to better outcomes for clients and smoother execution. The key is showing you're there to make everyone's job easier—not replace them. At Fidelis, planning and investment professionals sit in the same meetings with clients. This integrated approach allows for real-time problem-solving, clearer communication, and a seamless experience for families. It's a model built on visibility, not silos. Mentorship creates real succession—not disruption. Fidelis intentionally develops “next-up” advisors by embedding them in client relationships long before a transition is needed. It's a model that preserves institutional knowledge, builds trust, and gives clients peace of mind about who's carrying the torch next. Quotes "One of the foundational elements of our firm was that we wanted to be faithful to the promise of serving multiple generations." ~ Rick Simonetti “There's just no better endorsement, nothing more humbling and nothing for which we're more grateful than being able to serve families the way that we do, which results in them being thrilled to the point of saying, ‘Hey, I'm going to entrust someone I care deeply about to you.'” ~ Rick Simonetti "Nothing replaces sitting with clients and talking through issues, hosting family meetings, having all these questions come up and then figuring out how to explain them in a way that makes the complex simple or understandable." ~ Rick Simonetti Links  Rick Simonetti on LinkedIn Fidelis Capital Partners Wells Fargo Joe Diffley Merrill Lynch Christopher Gunster Neale Ellis Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 086: This week, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Andy Peters, Partner at Goldstein Advisors. Andy's CPA license is a rarity in financial planning, allowing him to lend a unique business and tax focus to his Financial Planner and Partner role at Goldstein. He stewards the Goldstein team, managing operations and setting the firm's overall vision and strategy. Kyle and Andy discuss the unique path and impressive organic growth of Goldstein Advisors. Andy emphasizes the significance of building genuine client relationships, community involvement, and a relentless focus on client-centric service. He also shares the firm's strategic approach to growth, its commitment to maintaining its culture, and its outlook on the evolving landscape of the financial advisory industry, including the role of AI and the increasing demand for tax expertise. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:32) - Andy's money moment (05:07) - The lessons Andy learned from Epic (06:31) - Goldstein Advisors' organic growth strategy (09:56) - The role of relationships and trust in the age of AI (11:40) - Intentional growth strategies (16:43) - The abundance mindset in managing wealth (20:02) - Delivering value while staying true to your competencies (26:00) - Goldstein Advisors' tech stack (28:54) - The future of the industry (31:10) - Andy's advice for maintaining a relentless focus on client service  (32:50) - Andy's Milemarker Minute Quotes "The connectedness plus the focus on our clients has been our growth engine, and we've never felt the need to go outside of that because we have all the growth we can handle as it is." ~ Andy Peters "At the end of the day, this is a relationship business. We take care of clients, and clients trust us to take care of them. Technology is important. AI will probably become increasingly important in some ways, but I don't think any of that replaces the need for the personal connection we have with our clients." ~ Andy Peters "We can't be everything to everyone. If we do that, we're simply going to fail in everything that we try to do. So, we try to stick to those core competencies where we have the deep skill set and where it's not going to be automated away by AI or other types of tech tools." ~ Andy Peters Links  Andy Peters on LinkedIn Goldstein Advisors Epic Adam Peters Fisher Investments Annex Wealth Management Carbone Cancer Center RightCapital Holistiplan Jon Goldstein The Hot Hand Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 085: This week, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Daniel Spurgeon, Managing Partner at Commonwealth Financial Services. They discuss building a thriving RIA in a small market, how to overcome the challenge of establishing trust as a young advisor, and how focusing on specific niches can fuel dramatic growth. Daniel also shares the journey of Commonwealth Financial Services from its humble beginnings to becoming one of the two fastest-growing firms in West Virginia, along with the technology strategy that helped scale operations and enhance client service. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:07) - The story behind Commonwealth Financial Services' name (02:45) - Daniel's money moment (04:03) - How Daniel got into the financial services industry (07:03) - The lab rat experience (08:43) - Daniel's career journey and growth (11:37) - Establishing trust as a young advisor (13:42) - The influence of college basketball on Daniel's work ethic (15:54) - The secret to Commonwealth's success and growth (17:46) - Commonwealth's niche markets (19:25) - The Wealth Wednesday program (23:14) - Commonwealth's technology strategy (26:33) - Daniel's outlook on the future of the industry (34:53) - Daniel's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways In close-knit communities, word-of-mouth referrals are extremely effective.  Genuine care for clients, building trust, and operating with integrity are instrumental in a firm's growth and success. Honesty and vulnerability are important, especially when working with clients who may be hesitant to trust younger advisors. Focusing on a specific niche has allowed Commonwealth to uniquely cater to their clients' needs and build a loyal following. Building an intentional tech stack has allowed Commonwealth to serve more clients efficiently and streamline operations. Quotes "The biggest thing you can do as a young person or just a new person in this industry is to own the fact that you don't have experience but make up for it in a knowledge base." ~ Daniel Spurgeon "When things are hard in the business, and you're new, and you're not getting clients left and right, the willingness to pick yourself back up and just keep taking the next step forward is paramount because it's not for the weak of heart." ~ Daniel Spurgeon "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care. If you're willing to go the extra step and take care of people, even though it may not immediately make a financial difference for you, people remember that." ~ Daniel Spurgeon "This world's always changing. So you have to be willing to adapt, and technology's an easy way to make things more efficient and scalable." ~ Daniel Spurgeon Links  Daniel Spurgeon on LinkedIn Commonwealth Financial Services Raymond James LPL Financial Edward Jones Merrill Lynch DuPont Wealth Wednesday | Podcast on Spotify Shanell Jeffrey Alyssa Williams Orion Advisor Solutions eMoney Advisor Joe Duran Quantitative Value Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 084: This week, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Kylie Felker, President of Foster Victor Wealth Advisors. Kylie leads the firm's strategic direction and innovation. She and Kyle discuss leadership, growth, and the intentional steps to building a thriving wealth management firm. From creating a strong team culture to designing a client experience that leaves lasting impressions, Kylie shares the challenges and triumphs of establishing a leadership structure, the importance of meaningful client relationships, and how Foster Victor stands out in a competitive industry. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (02:21) - Kylie's money moment (04:16) - The unique branding and digital presence of Foster Victor  (05:52) - The origins of Foster Victor and its vision  (08:12) - A team-based approach to client service (09:18) - Foster Victor's onboarding process (14:33) - Business models and hiring process (21:47) - Creating a leadership structure (24:23) - Foster Victor's core values and operating principles (30:33) - The role of AI in financial services (31:56) - Secrets to rapid growth (34:39) - Kylie's outlook on the future of the industry (36:16) - Kylie's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways More families are embracing discussions about money, especially with the massive generational wealth transfer underway. Unlike firms focused solely on gathering assets, Foster Victor prioritizes comprehensive financial planning. Foster Victor operates with a team-based approach, where two wealth coaches serve as the main points of contact for each client, ensuring a more comprehensive and engaging experience. Client experience is everything. Thoughtful touches like birthday celebrations and retirement congratulations build lasting relationships. Quotes "There are a lot of people in the industry who are focused on gathering assets. We really wanted to focus on financial planning. We want to build people's life plans." ~ Kylie Felker "In a world full of people who often underdeliver, we are trying to overdeliver. We're trying to think about the little things, put people first, and build relationships." ~ Kylie Felker "People don't like to talk about money. But that's changing. There's a desire for people to have conversations with their children and their grandchildren about where they are, how they got there, and what they want that money used for." ~ Kylie Felker Links  Kylie Felker on LinkedIn Foster Victor Wealth Advisors Unreasonable Hospitality  High Road Leadership The Energy Bus The Art of Encouragement Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 083: This week, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Nate Lenz, Co-Founder and CEO of Concurrent. Nate has more than a decade of experience in the financial industry. His career has focused on supporting financial advisors, empowering them to succeed without the backing of big financial services companies. Nate is a leader for advisors looking to realize their potential as entrepreneurs. Nate shares Concurrent's key initiatives on building a robust investment team, enhancing technology integrations to make data actionable, and addressing the talent gap in the RIA industry through a centralized wealth advisory services team. Nate also explores the trend of RIAs seeking strategic partnerships while maintaining independence and brand autonomy.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (02:28) - Nate's money moment (07:05) - How playing football influenced Nate's leadership abilities (13:08) - Rebuilding a successful RIA platform (18:54) - What winning a championship means in the RIA space (21:51) - The talent gap in the RIA industry (27:41) - The best use of Nate's time and effort as CEO (34:41) - Concurrent's goals for the future (40:29) - The evolving dynamics of RIA partnerships (43:44) - Nate's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Teamwork and accountability are essential in business. The overall success of an organization depends on the role each member plays.  Nate's journey from playing football to leading Concurrent illustrates the value of resilience, discipline, and commitment to team dynamics. Building a lifestyle business requires focusing on high-quality client relationships and maintaining exceptional service levels for growth and retention. RIAs increasingly seek strategic partnerships offering support and resources while preserving independence and brand autonomy. Quotes "Our best opportunity is to serve the end client and to serve the advisor, so we carry that duty and accountability all the way through." ~ Nate Lenz "If you're building a lifestyle business, that's great. But recognize that in doing so, your highest and best use is going to be serving your top clients, getting referrals out of those relationships because of what you're delivering, and making sure that you're upholding those service levels, retaining that business, and growing that business." ~ Nate Lenz "Not all RIAs are created equal. The ones that are investing in people and technology and supporting the advisors affiliated with them are going to continue to grow and scale because they're going to be best equipped to ultimately serve the end client." ~ Nate Lenz Links  Nate Lenz of LinkedIn Concurrent Raymond James Credit Suisse Patrick Jinks Columbia University Scott Steele No Rules Rules Decentralized Leadership Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 082: At Halbert Hargrove, the path to sustainable, long-term success has been shaped by its commitment to developing the next generation of advisors.  In this episode, Kyle Van Pelt talks with JC Abusaid, CEO and President at Halbert Hargrove, about the company's generational growth model. JC shares how the firm transitioned from hiring experienced advisors with existing books of business to cultivating homegrown talent through a structured internship and mentorship program. JC also discusses how Halbert Hargrove overcame the stigma of selling and the importance of separating management from client service roles to ensure efficiency and sustainability in a growing firm. In this episode: [00:00] - Intro  [03:01] - JC's money moment [04:40] - Halbert Hargrove's generational growth model [11:44] - Overcoming the stigma of selling [17:40] - Developing the next generation of advisors [23:12] - The Halbert Hargrove mentorship program [26:46] - Managing time and accelerating growth effectively [31:47] - Halbert Hargrove's tech stack [38:08] - JC's thoughts on the future of the industry [42:07] - JC's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Halbert Hargrove has grown through strategic decisions and a commitment to sustainability. It involved deliberately prioritizing succession planning and developing the next generation of advisors. Sales shouldn't be a taboo word. If you believe in the value you bring to clients, selling is about helping more people.  A well-structured talent pipeline is crucial for any firm looking to sustain growth. Being intentional about sales, mentorship, and professional development leads to a stronger, more resilient team. The firm transformed its internship program into a structured, meaningful experience. Mentorship and exposure to all aspects of the firm help interns understand career paths within the industry. Quotes "A manager can only do so much, but a mentor can have way more personal conversations. They can talk about stuff even from a human resource perspective. That creates a triage where the manager has to deal with what they're measuring and hold people accountable. A mentor plays a critical role in accelerating somebody's progress through the organization." ~ JC Abusaid "You have to have a philosophy about technology and innovation where you're willing to try things, knowing that you're going to flop. Some stuff is not going to work, and you're going to go through some expensive tryouts. It doesn't matter. You have to keep trying." ~ JC Abusaid "The industry is becoming more efficient and more aware of how to scale. If you don't figure out how to outsource the stuff that you traditionally have been doing internally, you're going to have big issues in expense structure." ~ JC Abusaid Links  JC Abusaid on LinkedIn Halbert Hargrove Russ Hill Optimizing Longevity Holistiplan Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 081: The total value of assets under management (AUM) is often used to measure growth in wealth management, but Hoxton Planning & Management takes a different approach. For them, true success is about impact, the number of families they serve and the difference they make in their lives. With a mission to help families find happiness through financial planning and resource management, Hoxton prioritizes meaningful, sustainable growth over chasing numbers. In this episode, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Rob Hoxton, Founder and Partner of Hoxton Planning & Management, and a 30-year veteran of the financial planning industry. They discuss how Hoxton has nearly doubled in size in the past two years, the role of organic growth and professional referrals, and serving families rather than just managing assets. Rob also talks about the impact of AI on financial planning and the key trends shaping the future of the RIA industry. In this episode: [00:00] - Intro [02:01] - Rob's money moment [04:12] - Client stories  [07:27] - Building, selling, and buying back a firm [10:47] - The growth of a family business [13:38] - Growing a firm through YouTube and podcasts [16:27] - Why Rob limits his social media reach  [17:31] - Rob's advice to anyone who wants to start a podcast [20:44] - Behind the scenes of Hoxton's rapid growth [21:31] - How Hoxton measures success [24:09] - How to build meaningful relationships with Centers of Influence (COIs) [26:22] - The trends that affect the future of financial planning [32:08] - Rob's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Hoxton Planning & Management measures success by the number of families served, ensuring meaningful and sustainable growth. It prioritizes impact over AUM, aiming to serve 800 families in the coming years. In addition to acquisitions, client referrals and strong relationships with a center of influence are primary growth drivers. YouTube and podcasts are excellent platforms for reaching target markets. Despite AI's potential to enhance efficiency, human connection oin financial advice will always be critical. Quotes "Our goal is to help families be happier through financial planning and resource management. That's our internal mission, and we're passionate about it." ~ Rob Hoxton "Chasing the dollar just makes me unhappy. I need something more meaningful than AUM or income." ~ Rob Hoxton "If we are serving 800 families profitably, the money will be there, and the opportunities for our team will be there. We will grow, and we'll make the difference." ~ Rob Hoxton Links  Rob Hoxton on LinkedIn Hoxton Planning & Management Nitrogen Wealth United Capital Financial Advisors Goldman Sachs Vanguard Last Paycheck Podcast Traction Dan Sullivan Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 080: Natalie Wolfsen is the CEO of Orion Advisor Solutions, where she leads the company's mission to revolutionize wealth management through cutting-edge technology and data-driven solutions. A champion of AI integration and personalized wealth management, Natalie is at the forefront of helping advisors leverage technology to enhance client relationships, streamline operations, and drive industry-wide transformation. In this episode, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Natalie about Orion's game-changing partnership with Snowflake, the increasing adoption of AI in wealth management, and how AI-driven tools are revolutionizing advisor productivity. Natalie shares insights from Orion's latest industry surveys, addressing advisors' biggest tech challenges, integration hurdles, and the growing demand for personalized client experiences.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (00:59) - Natalie's Money Moment (03:36) - Ascent Conference (06:58) - AI and data integration at Orion  (12:38) - Challenges and the future of tech integration (21:12) - Insights from Orion's wealthtech survey (25:53) - Why investors switch advisors (31:07) - Lessons from Natalie's marketing career (37:59) - Future trends in wealth management (45:25) - Natalie's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways AI adoption is no longer optional—it's a competitive advantage. If advisors aren't leveraging AI for automation and efficiency, they risk falling behind competitors who are using technology to enhance client service and streamline operations. Data integration is the future of wealth management. With advisors increasingly relying on real-time insights, firms that prioritize seamless data access and integration will be better positioned to deliver personalized, efficient client experiences. Investors crave human connection—not just digital touchpoints. While advisors believe clients prefer email and digital communication, investors overwhelmingly favor in-person meetings and deeper relationships. Technology should enhance, not replace, human interactions. AI's biggest impact will be on advisor productivity. Rather than replacing advisors, AI is poised to automate tedious tasks, generate personalized insights, and improve decision-making speed, helping advisors spend less time on prep work and more time strengthening client relationships. Quotes “AI and integrated workflows are actually being used by 68 percent of advisors, according to this year's wealth tech survey, which we just completed. In addition to that, 43 percent of advisors are planning increased AI investments in 2025. So if you're not using AI, you're falling behind.” ~ Natalie Wolfsen “Our new collaboration with Snowflake is going to enhance data access and flexibility for Orion's clients. It's the next iteration in allowing advisors to centralize their own information, both structured and unstructured, in one place.” ~ Natalie Wolfsen “I believe that the biggest opportunities for AI are actually on the productivity side of the equation. The biggest benefit to advisors is bringing together disparate data quickly, accurately, without asking them for too much time.” ~ Natalie Wolfsen Links  Natalie Wolfsen on LinkedIn:  Orion Advisor Solutions: https://orion.com/  Orion Advisor Technology: https://orion.com/advisor-tech  Charles Schwab: https://www.schwab.com/ Orion Ascent Conference: https://orion.com/ascent Redtail: https://redtailtechnology.com/ Snowflake: https://www.snowflake.com/ Reed Colley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reedcolley/ Summit: https://summitwealth.io/ Eric Clarke: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-clarke-06557810/ Brinker: https://orion.com/brinker-capital  The Demon of Unrest by Erik Larson: https://www.amazon.com/Demon-Unrest-Hubris-Heartbreak-Heroism/dp/0385348746 Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

Episode 079: Adrian Johnstone is the CEO at Practifi, a purpose-built business management platform for RIAs and wealth management firms. With a background in financial services consulting across Australia, New Zealand, and North America, Adrian has extensive experience in regulatory compliance, technology solutions, and scaling advisory businesses. His expertise in leveraging technology to enhance client relationships and streamline operations has positioned Practifi as a leading CRM solution in the industry.  In this episode, Milemarker CMO and Cofounder Jud Mackrill talks with Adrian about transforming RIAs with purpose-built CRM solutions, and his journey from consulting to building Practifi. They discuss the evolving wealth management landscape, the challenge of balancing software customization with usability, and the future of AI in financial services. Adrian emphasizes the importance of thinking long-term when choosing technology and how RIAs can drive sustainable growth through better client relationships, rather than relying solely on acquisitions or market performance. In this episode: [02:05] - Adrian's journey into wealth management [03:34] - The origin of Practifi [04:09] - Practifi's team, customer base, and market presence [05:40] - Practifi's unique position and connection with Salesforce [08:51] - How Practifi combines service and software to deliver value [13:12] - The importance of long-term planning when choosing a CRM [16:36] - Practifi's design and user experience [19:51] - The role of AI and the future of CRM technology [22:09] - Practifi's ideal client profile [23:28] - Data ownership and integration Key Takeaways Generic CRMs often fall short of addressing the specific workflows, data needs, and compliance requirements of RIAs. Practifi is not simply an overlay, but a purpose-built solution that leverages the power of Salesforce, offering greater flexibility and RIA-specific functionality. Practifi prioritizes user experience through role-based design and clear information architecture, making the system more intuitive and efficient for teams. Investing in design has been central to Practifi's success, making CRM adoption as seamless and intelligent as possible. Quotes "If you go and engage with the Salesforce development shop on day one, and you don't speak Salesforce and they don't speak RIA, then you are not going to get the thing that you hope will work for you when you turn it on." ~ Adrian Johnstone "The industry is necessarily headed towards a richer relationship. CRM technology has to move forward in the process. It has moved more into the client engagement and client acquisition space and less into the efficiency and workflow space. It needs to stretch further forward." ~ Adrian Johnstone "You can't always just acquire your way to growth and just rely on the markets to deliver it. You also need to be able to build solid, sustainable growth organically." ~ Adrian Johnstone Links  Adrian Johnstone on LinkedIn Practifi Salesforce Microsoft Eric Clarke Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 078: In this episode, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Art Ambarik, CEO of Perigon Wealth Management, about the transformative trends reshaping the financial advice industry. They discuss the importance of specialization in financial advising, the evolving role of technology, and transitioning from a generalist to a niche-focused advisor. Art shares his journey into the industry, the importance of aligning future financial goals with present actions, and the growth and integration of Perigon Wealth. They also discuss the importance of building trust, professionalization in the RIA industry, and fostering client-centered growth. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (02:33) - Art's Money Moment (05:23) - Growth and phases of Perigon Wealth Management (10:53) - Challenges and strategies in integration (15:23) - The role of technology in financial advisory (17:31) - Professionalization and organic growth (23:37) - How advisors are becoming specialists (27:07) - Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Embrace Niche Expertise: Specializing in specific client segments or financial areas enhances trust and positions advisors as authorities, leading to stronger client relationships and business growth. Leverage Technology for Scalability: Implementing advanced technological solutions streamlines operations, allowing firms to efficiently scale while maintaining high-quality, personalized client service. Prioritize Client-Centric Growth: Focusing on clients' unique needs and building trust through transparency and reliability fosters long-term relationships and drives organic growth. Adapt to Industry Evolution: Staying informed about industry trends and being flexible in adopting new practices ensures firms remain competitive and can effectively meet changing client expectations. Invest in Professional Development: Continuous learning and development for advisors and staff are crucial for delivering sophisticated financial advice and adapting to the evolving landscape of wealth management. Quotes “ This isn't about picking the best investment. This is about helping people achieve their goals, live the life they want to live, and try to optimize their finances in a way to get there.” ~ Art Ambarik “ What's happening is the professionalization of the industry. What that means is, we have colleges now teaching CFP classes and people coming out as trusted experts. They're not viewed by their peers as salespeople They're not viewed by their peers necessarily as investment specialists. They're viewed by their peers as professional financial advisors.” ~ Art Ambarik “Financial advisors are going from being generalists to being experts and having more of a niche. It makes complete sense. If you're a prospective client, you're looking for trust and confidence.” ~ Art Ambarik Links  Art Ambarik on LinkedIn Perigon Wealth Management Phil Hart Talking to Strangers by Malcom Gladwell Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Promos Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 077: We live in a world where numbers rule—stacking up wealth, counting dollars, and chasing financial milestones. It's a common pitfall to equate money with happiness, as society frequently portrays financial success as the ultimate goal. While money can bring freedom and opportunity, it also reveals that as powerful as it is, it remains a tool, not a solution to all of life's challenges. In this episode, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Daniel Crosby, Chief Behavioral Officer at Orion Advisor Solutions, New York Times bestselling author, and the host of the Standard Deviations podcast. Daniel helps individuals and organizations thrive at the intersection of psychology and finance. His book, The Soul of Wealth, explores what wealth really is and provides practical suggestions for how to change your thinking and your actions in small, powerful ways. Daniel talks with Kyle about money, meaning, and the human side of wealth. Daniel dives deep into the often-overlooked aspects of wealth, the power of conscious spending, and the parallels between health and wealth.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (02:05) - The Soul of Wealth (06:47) - Daniel's thoughts on donor-advised funds (09:58) - The burden of wealth (17:19) - Why the influencer culture is rooted in half-truths (24:19) - The parallels between health and wealth (31:34) - New changes to Daniel's podcast, Standard Deviations (36:07) - Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Every dollar spent is a vote for the kind of world you want to live in. Achieving financial success can bring unexpected challenges like isolation, anxiety, and a loss of purpose. It's crucial to recognize that money is a tool, not a solution to all problems. Money and online influence can provide fleeting satisfaction, but they don't replace authentic human connection, purpose, or love. It's easy to fixate on achieving a specific financial goal or level of success. However, finding joy in the journey and focusing on the behavioral and relational aspects of life are equally important. Quotes "I'm always looking for ways to humanize wealth, budgeting, and investing. Understanding that the way you spend every dollar is a vote for the kind of world you want to live in." ~ Daniel Crosby "Money is easy to stack. Money is easy to count. Money is easy to quantify. Because it is all those things, we treat it as a proxy for happiness." ~ Daniel Crosby "The five facets of a meaningful life are fun and leisure, deep work, loving relationships, meaning, and advancement. Money is only exceptional at scratching one of these itches." ~ Daniel Crosby "The belief that money is a tool that solves every problem is so hard to shake because it is riddled with half-truths. Money can't buy us happiness outright, but it can buy us the absence of misery. Money can't buy us love, but it can buy us chocolate and roses. Money can't buy us purpose, but it can buy us time to reflect on the meaning of life." ~ Daniel Crosby Links  Daniel Crosby on LinkedIn Orion Advisor Solutions The Soul of Wealth Standard Deviations Eric Clarke Neverwhere Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 076: This week, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Jeremy Nelson, President at Element Wealth. Jeremy shares his journey from discovering investing as a 10-year-old in Canada to building Mississippi's fastest-growing RIA. Jeremy discusses merging with Ross and Yerger, prioritizing culture and client relationships, and leveraging technology for growth. He explores AI's potential to enhance advisory efficiency while maintaining human-centered service. From integrating new team members to fostering client trust, Jeremy highlights the importance of leadership, transparency, and personal connections in driving success.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (00:57) - Jeremy's Money Moment (02:38) - Early career and internship experience (04:27) - Client retention and referrals (06:27) - Merging with Ross and Yerger (10:09) - Maintaining company culture (16:25) - The role of technology in business growth (21:38) - Future trends: AI in the RIA industry (28:37) - Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Prioritize Culture and Client Relationships: Building a strong organizational culture and fostering deep client relationships are fundamental to sustainable growth in financial advising. Embrace Technology and AI: Leveraging technology, including AI, can enhance efficiency and client service, but it's crucial to maintain a human-first approach to preserve personal connections. Navigate Mergers with Transparency: When merging firms, clear communication and transparency are vital to integrate teams effectively and maintain trust with clients. Invest in Leadership Development: Developing leadership skills within the team ensures adaptability and resilience, enabling the firm to navigate industry changes successfully. Balance Innovation with Personalization: While adopting new technologies is important, ensuring that client interactions remain personalized and human-centric is key to differentiating your advisory services. Quotes “I think AI is going to become a massive productivity tool that we're going to be able to leverage and we're just scratching the surface.” ~ Jeremy Nelson “ The only way to be efficient is technology, right? And by putting that at the center of our business, operationally, it enables us to handle more and more clients.” ~ Jeremy Nelson “When you do a good job with your clients—when you connect with them on a personal basis, when you understand where they are in life, what they're trying to achieve— you're working together in a partnership. They're going to be really willing to refer you because they like you.” ~ Jeremy Nelson Links  Jeremy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-my-element-wealth/  Element Wealth: https://myelementwealth.com/ Legg Mason: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legg_Mason Nintendo: https://www.nintendo.com/  Ross and Yerger: https://www.rossandyerger.com/  Juli-Ann Marquette: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juli-ann-my-element-wealth/ Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order by Ray Dalio: https://www.amazon.com/Changing-World-Order-Nations-Succeed/dp/1982160276 The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel: https://www.amazon.com/Psychology-Money-Timeless-lessons-happiness/dp/0857197681  Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 075: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Jessica Gibbs, Partner and VP at Monument Wealth Management. Jessica shares her journey from nonprofit fundraising to financial planning, driven by her passion for helping people align their wealth with their purpose. She highlights the importance of personalized communication, Monument's innovative approach to financial advising, and the firm's commitment to flexibility and inclusivity. Jessica also shares insights about hosting Monument's podcast Off the Wall, leveraging technology for efficiency, and preparing the next generation of advisors.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:50) - Jessica's Money Moment (02:15) - Transition to financial planning (06:25) - Joining Monument Wealth Management (08:23) - Jessica's critique of the financial industry (11:33) - How Monument uses podcasting (15:20) - What makes Monument stand out (23:04) - Gender equality and the future of financial planning (27:24) - Monument's culture and work-life balance (30:20) - Leveraging technology (33:32) - Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Align Your Wealth with Your Values: Wealth isn't just about accumulating assets; it's about aligning your financial resources with your life's purpose. Whether it's charitable giving, personal goals, or legacy planning, identifying and prioritizing what truly matters ensures your wealth creates meaningful impact. Tailor Your Communication to Build Stronger Relationships: Effective financial planning goes beyond technical expertise; it's about understanding your clients' unique needs. Whether they prefer detailed analysis or a bottom-line summary, adapting your communication style builds trust and long-term relationships. Embrace Collaboration for Better Client Outcomes: A team-based approach brings diverse perspectives to the table, resulting in more comprehensive solutions for clients. Monument Wealth Management's ensemble model showcases the power of collaboration in financial planning. Quotes “Being a financial planner is about the money, the modeling, taxes, IRS code. But it is equally a relationship business. It is equally a communication business.” ~ Jessica Gibbs ”This is a subject matter that I've always loved learning about. I was that kid who read Money magazine in high school. I opened my first Vanguard account when I got my first job and invested in a mutual fund. I talked to my friends about like, hey, do you have an investment account?” ~ Jessica Gibbs “Wealth is going to be changing hands to women and younger generations… Having women representation within the industry is so important to making sure that you are speaking effectively to female clients.” ~ Jessica Gibbs Links  Jessica on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicagibbscfp/  Monument Wealth Management: https://monumentwealthmanagement.com/  Off the Wall podcast: https://monumentwealthmanagement.com/resources/?type=podcast   Brookings: https://www.brookings.edu/ Georgetown School of Continuing Studies: https://scs.georgetown.edu/ Dave Armstrong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbarmstrong/ eMoney: https://emoneyadvisor.com/ G2 Leadership Institute: https://ensemblepractice.com/services/g2-leadership-institute/ Dean Catino: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-catino-cfp%C2%AE-cpwa%C2%AE-crpc%C2%AE-60311211/ Greater DC Diaper Bank: https://greaterdcdiaperbank.org/  Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 074: In this “Best of 2024” episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle Van Pelt brings together four leaders from four firms to discuss why firms should own their data and why data and technology are keys to success. Featuring Mike Prior, Brian Preston, Mark DeLotto, and Chrissy Lee. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (00:52) - Mike Prior on the importance of a modern approach to technology. (04:37) - Brian Preston on how to build organic growth by being on the front edge of technology.  (07:00) - Mark DeLotto on the criticalness of data in all aspects of building a firm. (12:00) - Chrissy Lee on how technology is the secret to exceptional operations. Links  Mike Prior on LinkedIn Priority Financial Group Brian Preston on LinkedIn Abound Wealth Mark DeLotto on LinkedIn Simon Quick Advisors Chrissy Lee on LinkedIn Merit Financial Advisors Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 073: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle Van Pelt brings together some of the show's best moments from 2024 discussing how firms are recruiting and developing their talent. Featuring Seth Merrill, Jeff Casey, Alex Goss, and Patrick Sweeny, this episode dives into how great leaders of great firms tackle different aspects of the war for talent. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (00:59) - Seth Merrill on what roles he is prioritizing as his firm grows. (06:03) - Jeff Casey on the process of getting through a transitional season.  (12:36) - Alex Goss on how he sees the industry moving for better outcomes for firms and employees. (20:33) - Patrick Sweeny on how Apella Wealth developed a unique residency program. Links  Seth Merrill on LinkedIn The Norden Group Jeffrey Casey on LinkedIn CG Financial Services Alex Goss on LinkedIn NewEdge Capital Group Patrick Sweeny on LinkedIn Apella Wealth Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 072: Brad Ball, founder of Bison Wealth, is a seasoned financial expert with a passion for creating long-term value in wealth management. Brad's approach integrates patient capital, cutting-edge investment strategies, and a focus on building resilient client relationships.  In this episode, Kyle talks with Brad about the importance of infrastructure in financial firms, the key elements of successful advisor training, and the challenges and opportunities in the wealth management industry. Brad shares his journey from working with large pension plan investments to founding Bison Wealth, emphasizing the need for a supportive environment and sophisticated strategies to meet client needs. They also explore the role of technology and AI in modern wealth management, along with Brad's insights on industry trends and future growth. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (00:47) - Meet Brad Ball (02:09) - Brad's money moment (05:06) - Training and succession planning in wealth management (08:35) - Merging Bison Advisors and Bison Wealth (10:42) - Strategies for growth and client acquisition (19:41) - The role of technology in Bison's growth (28:20) - Future trends in the financial industry (32:17) - Brad's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Aligning with partners who have a long-term investment horizon allows for strategic planning and enduring client relationships. Incorporating alternative investments into portfolios enhances protection and creates unique value for high-net-worth clients. A cohesive and integrated technology stack is essential for operational efficiency and long-term success. Focusing on personalized client solutions fosters trust and builds lasting relationships in a competitive industry. Quotes “If you're not trying to create some synergy with your tech stack, with your operations, you simply bog down and you can't be successful.” ~ Brad Ball “ We're really focusing on building products that have protections built in that give [clients] less of a binary outcome and more of a disproportionate up to down.” ~ Brad Ball “ There is no question the market has voted firmly that aggregators are going down in value, and integrators are going up in value.” ~ Brad Ball Links  Brad Ball on LinkedIn Bison Holdings Bison Wealth Empower Orion Redtail Goodwood Consulting Fidelity Schwab Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 071: Building a thriving business is about playing the long game—prioritizing sustainable value creation over fleeting, short-term wins. Organic growth strategies lie at the heart of this approach, leveraging the power of client referrals, collaborative partnerships, and the ability to craft compelling stories that resonate with clients. For advisors aiming to attract ultra-high-net-worth clients, focus on telling, not selling, and offer genuine value without the pressure of asking for referrals. In this episode, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Jonathan Foster, President adn CEO of Angeles Wealth Management. Jonathan is a senior leadership executive with experience in all three major wealth management channels: wirehouse, registered investment advisory, and independent representative marketplaces.  Kyle and Jonathan discuss the strategies and philosophies that drive long-term success in the RIA space. Jonathan shares the three ways to grow organically, how to attract ultra-high-net-worth clients, and the importance of long-term value creation. He also dives into the key factors driving RIA's valuation and the challenges of democratizing alternative investments. In this episode: [02:34] - Jonathan's money moment [03:54] - Founding Angeles Wealth Management [12:27] - Three ways to grow organically [15:44] - How to attract ultra-high-net-worth clients [18:19] - The importance of long-term value creation [22:31] - Leadership's role in nurturing team members' well-being and growth [26:06] - The challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship [27:47] - Key factors that drive the valuation of an RIA [30:38] - Flexibility and adaptability in business planning [36:16] - The future of the financial services industry [36:29] - Democratizing access to high-quality private investment [40:57] - John's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Building a successful business prioritizes long-term value creation over short-term gains. Organic growth strategies include referrals from happy clients, collaboration with colleagues, and hiring skilled storytellers. When attracting ultra-high-net-worth clients, it's important to "tell, don't sell" and focus on providing value rather than asking for referrals. Quotes [12:57] - "There are three ways that we've identified that could organically grow the business. The first is getting referrals from happy clients. The second one is being a good colleague with our sister company. The third way is hiring a good storyteller." ~Jonathan Foster [26:12] - "People always talk about the wins. They don't talk about the ones that didn't work. What you don't want to do is spend five or 10 years of your life on a bad idea." ~ Jonathan Foster [28:30] - "What makes a business valuable to own or valuable to sell is organic growth, high-quality people, and a high-quality process." ~ Jonathan Foster Links  Jonathan Foster on LinkedIn Angeles Investments E*Trade A Sense of Freedom Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 070: Succession planning and growth strategies are critical considerations for RIAs seeking long-term sustainability. As firms evolve and leadership transitions occur, a well-defined succession plan ensures smooth handover and business continuity. Succession plans, coupled with strategic growth initiatives and investing in the right technology, allow RIAs to deliver better client service, attract top talent and potential leaders, and provide more sophisticated services. In this episode, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Thomas Carroll, CEO & President of Homrich Berg. Thomas has an extensive background in wealth management, both as an advisor to clients and as a leader of client service organizations. Kyle and Thomas discuss the importance of a well-defined succession plan and growth strategies, how RIAs can effectively plan succession, and how investing in technology improves client and advisor experiences. Thomas also talks about the trend of advisors and clients migrating to RIAs and the value of maintaining a culture and service model while scaling. In this episode: [02:05] - Thomas' money moment [07:05] - Homrich Berg's 12-year succession plan [10:07] - How RIAs plan for succession [13:39] - The emotional aspects of leadership transition [16:03] - Why advisors and clients migrate to RIAs [19:38] - The "Goldilocks" size for RIAs [21:59] - Maintaining the "Goldilocks" phase while scaling [25:10] - Technology investments at Homrich Berg [28:35] - Homrich Berg's philosophy for growth [30:20] - Trends in wealth management [34:05] - Thomas' Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways A well-defined succession plan is important for a smooth leadership and equity transition in RIAs. Clients are becoming more sophisticated and seeking fee-only advisors who prioritize their best interests—a trend that's driving growth for independent RIAs. The "Goldilocks" size for RIAs balances scale and client service. It is big enough to offer scale, resources, and technology investments, yet nimble and client-centric. Strategic growth can enhance client experience when combined with technology investments.  Optimizing core technology systems is more effective than acquiring multiple-point solutions. Quotes [17:08] - "The only revenue we make as a firm is providing advice to our clients. They're paying us for advice. And you're going to see more and more clients gravitate to that business model because it's inherently unconflicted. We do whatever is in the client's best interest." ~ Thomas Carroll [22:50] - "We're here to provide a comprehensive fiduciary wealth management experience in a fee-only way on a chassis of service, not a chassis of sales." ~ Thomas Carroll [28:35] - "Our goal was not to get bigger for bigger's sake. Our goal was to continue to deliver the client experience that we are committed to delivering in a fee-only construct with a service-oriented approach." ~ Thomas Carroll Links  Thomas Carroll on LinkedIn Homrich Berg Truist Bank Andy Berg TPG Capital Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 69: Our relationship with money is often influenced by personal experiences, cultural upbringing, and deeply rooted beliefs. These invisible drivers shape our financial habits, decision-making, and overall well-being. Financial therapists understand that money decisions aren't just about numbers and logic—they're about people. By recognizing clients' emotional and psychological responses to money, financial therapists create holistic plans that align with each person's values and goals. In this episode, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Emily Millsap, Manager of Financial Planning at Avantax Wealth Management. Early in her financial services career, Emily discovered her passion for behavioral finance and how our core money beliefs are deeply rooted in our generational wealth stories and personal experiences. Kyle and Emily talk about financial therapy and its role in holistic planning. They discuss the key differences between traditional financial advice and financial therapy and how a holistic approach can lead to more effective and sustainable outcomes. Emily also shares the process of managing a centralized planning desk and future trends in the industry. In this episode: [02:41] - Emily's money moment [05:10] - What is financial therapy? [08:09] - Differences between financial therapy and financial advice [11:37] - What it takes to run a successful centralized planning desk [13:35] - Bringing together financial therapy and holistic planning [19:41] - Integrating tax planning into financial therapy [22:52] - Keeping up-to-date with holistic planning [24:47] - Future trends in financial planning [27:23] - Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Financial therapy is a holistic approach to financial planning that considers both the emotional and logical aspects of money management. Understanding clients' emotional responses to financial decisions is essential for providing effective advice. A centralized planning desk streamlines the process for advisors and clients, allowing for a more efficient and effective approach. Emerging trends in the industry include the growing importance of holistic planning, the increasing role of women in wealth management, and the need to navigate the growing availability of financial information. Quotes [08:18] - "Most of us in this industry are problem solvers and solution bringers. But I think we have to get to a point where we humanize financial planning in many ways. And it's not just about getting to the solution but answering the question for the client." ~ Emily Millsap [23:27] - "If we continue to silo our financial lives, which is a very important part of our lives, how do we know the different pieces are working together and that we've got the best pieces in place? I would love to get to a point where this doesn't have to be a question anymore because everyone is doing holistic [planning]." ~ Emily Millsap [24:28] - "If we stay as a team and keep learning as a foundational part of our culture and what we do together, then we will be better positioned to stay on top and continue building an environment where it's okay for any one team member to not know something at any point." ~ Emily Millsap Links  Emily Millsap on LinkedIn Avantax eMoney Advisor MoneyGuidePro RightCapital Think Again Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 068: Marketing is about providing value, building relationships, and earning trust. Financial advisors who want to stand out focus less on selling and more on serving. One of the most effective ways to do this is by creating content people want to engage with, whether blog posts, newsletters, social posts, podcasts, or videos. In this episode, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Samantha Russell, Chief Evangelist at FMG Suite. Samantha teaches financial advisors how to utilize digital marketing strategies to produce exponential growth through website development, content marketing, SEO, social media, and video. Her cutting-edge thought leadership is recognized throughout the financial services industry and led to her being named to Investment News 40 Under 40, ThinkAdvisor "Luminary" and Wealth Management Top Ten to Watch. Kyle and Samantha talk about strategic marketing techniques for financial advisors. They discuss the power of content marketing, the importance of consistency in the marketing process, and the impact of providing value beyond financial advice. In this episode: [03:10] - Samantha's money moment [05:47] - Samantha's transition from sales to marketing [08:24] - How marketing tactics have changed over time [11:34] - How new RIAs can stand out [16:02] - How to scale marketing efforts [20:07] - Choosing the right CRM [22:22] - Effective marketing strategies [25:25] - The power of in-person events [28:02] - Samantha's outlook on the future of the industry [35:21] - Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways An effective marketing strategy offers value first before asking for anything in return. Marketing takes time and consistent effort, but when done right, it can lead to a steady stream of qualified leads. Content marketing is a powerful tool for attracting and nurturing prospects. Hosting in-person events that offer value creates meaningful connections on a personal level. Quotes [06:39] - "One of the biggest ways any firm can become a trusted source, where someone will take the phone call or the sales meeting first, is to give something of value away before you ask. I always say give, give, give, then ask." ~ Samantha Russell [09:45] - "AI has completely changed the game of how people get information. SEO is probably the thing that's Wild West the most, more than anything else." ~ Samantha Russell [28:33] - "Content is going to become even crazier, and the tools that we use to service clients are going to become so hyper-productive. We are going to go back to thinking about experiences because so many other things are going to become commodities, and the experiences are going to become crucial." ~ Samantha Russell Links  Samantha Russell on LinkedIn FMG Suite Salesforce Wealthbox  Redtail Technology Rubin Miller Peltoma Capital Partners How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 067: Effective communication is the bridge that connects financial experts with clients who may feel overwhelmed by financial jargon. Translating financial concepts into clear, relatable language closes the gap between technical knowledge and client understanding, laying the groundwork for successful partnerships and empowering clients to make better financial decisions. This week, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Paula Nangle, President and Senior Wealth Advisor at Marshall Financial. Paula focuses on instilling the values that have guided Marshall Financial for more than 40 years. She talks with Kyle about how she transitioned from pharmaceuticals to financial services, and her experiences navigating cultural shifts, overcoming communication barriers, and building meaningful client connections. Paula also dives into her passion for teaching financial planning concepts, and shares her take on the industry's future. In this episode: [02:42] - Paula's money moment [05:37] - From pharmaceuticals to financial services [09:18] - Teaching financial concepts [10:49] - Qualities to look for in financial advisors [14:05] - The gap between academic knowledge and practical experience [16:14] - Using data to make strategic decisions [20:30] - Providing career transition services to clients [24:57] - What it takes to grow a financial advisory firm [27:36] - Paula's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Effective communication, free from industry jargon, is essential for building trust and helping clients make smart decisions. Data and analytics are essential for running a successful financial advisory firm and making informed strategic decisions. Providing personalized financial advice and addressing clients' unique needs is a key differentiator for financial advisors. AI is a whole new ballgame in the future of financial services. Advisors need to leverage technology to enhance client experiences and improve efficiency. Quotes [12:55] - "The RIA has evolved where there are more enterprise firms. So, not everyone needs to be a salesman to be successful as a financial advisor." ~ Paula Nangle [16:40] - "Every year, we get a valuation of our company to know what it's worth. So, it's very data-driven, and it comes from a lot of different sources. Milemarker helps clients pull all that complex data together." ~ Paula Nangle [25:47] - "AI is a whole new ballgame. I don't think we're going to see the obsolescence of human financial advisors. I think clients are going to crave human connection even more, and I believe these tools will allow us to deliver a more personalized experience." ~ Paula Nangle Links  Paula Nangle on LinkedIn Marshall Financial Group NYU The Women Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 066: Traditional wealth management often focuses on stocks and bonds, potentially leaving investors vulnerable during market downturns. AlphaCore believes there's a better way. By marrying alternative investments and traditional asset classes, advisors can bridge the gap between traditional wealth planning and the world of alternatives. Breaking down barriers to alternative investments allows investors to diversify and build more resilient portfolios, enhance returns, and mitigate risks. In this episode, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Dick Pfister, CEO and Founder of AlphaCore Wealth Advisory. Dick has more than 25 years of experience in diversifying traditional portfolios with alternative strategies. Kyle and Dick talk about alternative investments and how AlphaCore democratizes access to these strategies. Dick also discusses the categories of alternative investments, the role of education in driving accessibility and adoption, upcoming trends in wealth management, and the importance of technology and artificial intelligence in the development of the industry. In this episode: [02:04] - Dick's money moment [06:39] - AlphaCore's mission [10:35] - The categories of alternative investments [13:45] - AlphaCore's organic growth strategies [16:37] - Business development and team structure [20:43] - Prioritizing culture fit during acquisitions [24:20] - Technology's role in scaling businesses [26:59] - Future trends in wealth management [29:29] - Future trends for alternative investments [31:26] - Dick's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways AlphaCore aims to democratize access to alternative investments to enable retail investors to build diversified and more resilient portfolios. Alternative investment adoption in retail wealth management is still in the early stages. Education for both advisors and clients is crucial for broader acceptance. The future of wealth management will likely see alternative investment become mainstream, and artificial intelligence will play a crucial role in their adoption. Quotes [09:34] - "Coming from the world of alternative strategies, I thought you should have stocks and bonds. But you should have this other instrument called alternatives. Let's make that the third leg of the stool, and that will give you the diversification needed to make it not only in bull markets but in bear markets when you don't have those opportunities in equities." ~ Dick Pfister [14:33] - "The number one value is, 'do what's right for the client.' And when you do what's right for the client, even if it's more expensive for you as a wealth advisor, more difficult, or operationally inefficient, you're going to get good organic growth because you're putting their interests first." ~ Dick Pfister [27:57] - "You have to make sure you're embracing artificial intelligence in a way you can utilize to help scale and be more efficient. That's going to become more and more a part of what we do. Not to replace but to enhance what we do." ~ Dick Pfister Links  Dick Pfister on LinkedIn AlphaCore Wealth Advisory CME Group Morgan Stanley Altegris iCapital CAIS Docusign CAIA Association The Obstacle Is the Way Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 065: In this episode, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Seth Merrill, Partner at The Norden Group. They discuss the challenges and strategies involved in scaling a financial advisory firm, the importance of building strong COI relationships, and the evolving landscape of the advisory industry. Seth shares his unique path into the industry, insights on building study groups with CPAs and attorneys, and the growth trajectory of The Norden Group, including onboarding 11 advisors and managing a team of 22 employees. They also explore the role of technology in managing growth, the balance between personal practice and firm management, and Seth's vision for the future of financial advisory. In this episode: [02:03] - Seth's money moment [06:47] - How Seth develops relationships with COIs [09:27] - The Norden Group's organic growth strategies [14:32] - The Norden Group's advisor acquisition [17:50] - What sets The Norden Group apart from other firms [21:24] - The Norden Group's recruitment and talent development practices [25:53] - The challenges of balancing client service with firm management [28:29] - The Norden Group's tech stack [31:17] - Seth's take on the future of the industry [35:11] - Seth's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Building strong relationships with COIs is a strategic organic growth channel for financial advisors. The Norden Group has focused on building deep relationships with COIs, like CPAs and legal teams, through study groups and collaborative efforts. Creating study groups as a platform for knowledge sharing, relationship building, and generating referrals is an effective growth strategy. Managing a growing firm is complex. It needs to balance client service with operational demands. Quotes [13:30] - "Our firm is really based on education, and we need to be better. We feel you can help us improve through the study group format." ~ Seth Merrill [31:34] - "At this point, one-man shops are going to be really difficult to continue to operate. So, it's going to become more paramount that you surround yourself with a team of competent people." ~ Seth Merrill [34:23] - "I truly feel we are in the relationship business, and that is our number one job. Most of the time, we are managing emotions and people. That's why we feel it's super important to treat the relationship and bring the party to the initial consultation." ~ Seth Merrill Links  Seth Merrill on LinkedIn The Norden Group Garen Winn TownSquare Capital Kurt Brown Wealthbox eMoney Advisor Holistiplan Nitrogen Unreasonable Hospitality Atomic Habits Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 064: Traditionally, value propositions are centered on beating the market and outperforming benchmarks. However, these factors often fail to deliver consistent and reliable results for investors. To address this challenge, Fairway Wealth Management aims to provide reliable results by focusing on factors investors can control. These include tax efficiency, cost management, and behavioral guidance. This week, Kyle talks with Mark Weiskind, Founding Partner and President at Fairway Wealth Management. Mark helped found the firm in 2002 to provide clients with world-class, high-touch, completely independent, and objective advice. Kyle and Mark discuss delivering reliable value, how smaller firms can provide comprehensive financial planning without joining big platforms or consolidators, and how technology is essential in streamlining processes and enhancing client experience. In this episode: [03:03] - Mark's money moment [07:02] - How Mark defines reliable value [10:20] - Tax alpha [16:11] - Fees and holistic advisory services [19:39] - How Fairway provides comprehensive service without joining big platforms [25:24] - The challenges of small boutique firms [31:55] - Mark's thoughts on the future of the RIA industry [35:29] - Mark's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Reliable value is built on factors that are controllable and consistent, such as tax efficiency, cost reduction, and behavioral guidance. Tax optimization is a key area where advisors can provide significant client value. Technology is a valuable tool but should be used strategically to enhance efficiency and client experience. Smaller firms can compete with big names in the industry by offering personalized service, building strong relationships, and investing in employee development. Quotes [07:07] - "For most firms in our industry, the value proposition is based on aspirational concepts and predictions and things investors and advisors don't have any control over. We focus on things that are controllable, where the value is reliable and consistent." ~ Mark Weiskind [21:16] - "I think the way to succeed is by being hands-on and really just serving the heck out of your clients. As a small boutique firm, if you can do that in an exceptional way, you can truly differentiate yourself as an advisor." ~ Mark Weiskind [26:04] - "One of the challenges of being a smaller firm is that we don't always spend enough time or don't have the resources to really focus on that tech stack. As more and more technologies emerge, it's hard to keep up." ~ Mark Weiskind Links  Mark Weiskind on LinkedIn Fairway Wealth Management Deloitte Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 063: This week, Kyle talks with Robert Conzo and Eric Diton from The Wealth Alliance. Robert is the CEO and Managing Director, and Eric is the President and Managing Director.  They discuss their journey in wealth management, from large wirehouses to establishing an independent firm. They explore growth strategies through M&A, organic client acquisition, and building strong centers of influence. The conversation explores the importance of technology, AI, and the role of social media and PR in building a successful brand. They also discuss their firm's culture, charitable initiatives like “Songs of Love”, and vision for becoming a super regional RIA. In this episode: [02:30] - Money moments [08:28] - The early days of The Wealth Alliance [10:52] - Strategies for organic growth [16:20] - Building referral relationships [20:05] - The power of social media and PR [26:48] - A multichannel marketing strategy [28:58] - Navigating record growth and building a strong team [31:35] - The future of RIAs [35:41] - Embracing technology and AI in wealth management [42:22] - Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways The Wealth Alliance's approach to organic growth includes building relationships with referral sources, leveraging social media and PR, and providing exceptional client service. Building strong relationships with CPAs and attorneys is crucial for generating referrals and expanding your client base. Technology is important in streamlining operations, improving client service, and staying ahead of industry trends. The Wealth Alliance envisions a future where super-regional RIAs play a dominant role in the industry. Quotes [12:18] - "The bottom line is, as we all know, we are in a service business. Client contact is paramount." ~ Eric Diton [29:06] - "We have built a family here. It sounds cliché, but our success comes from the love and respect within our team. Everyone is willing to work really hard because they love where they work and what we're building." ~ Eric Diton [31:35] - "The independent industry is consolidating. All these little RIAs are starting to come together, and I believe the future of this industry is a super-regional RIA firm controlling a region." ~ Rob Conzo [36:42] - "The beauty of the independent industry is that these platforms have become more and more sophisticated. The benefactor of this technology will be the RIA, the client, and everybody else surrounded by the firm." ~ Rob Conzo Links  Robert Conzo on LinkedIn Eric Diton on LinkedIn The Wealth Alliance Salesforce Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 062: At Helium Advisors, the buddy system isn't just a strategy—it's a core component of their wealth management approach. By pairing advisors with shared goals and similar skill sets, they provide clients with more comprehensive and personalized solutions.  In this episode, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Gary Russell, Partner and Co-Founder at Helium Advisors, about Helium's buddy system, how it works, and the benefits it provides. They also discuss holistic planning and how using the right technology creates a unique client experience. In this episode: [01:49] - Gary's money moment [03:37] - What inspired Gary to become a financial advisor [05:34] - What influenced Helium's culture [07:39] - Helium's buddy system [13:22] - Holistic planning defined [18:19] - Leveraging technology for better client service [23:40] - Technology in holistic planning [26:02] - Gary's outlook on the future of the industry [27:53] - Gary's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Helium's buddy system pairs advisors together to leverage their skill sets and provide more comprehensive advice to clients. Holistic planning considers all aspects of a client's financial life, including taxes, estate, and business planning. Technology is a critical part of financial planning. Advisors need to be selective about which technologies to adopt. The future of financial planning involves more consolidation and integration of AI.  Quotes [24:30] -"If you look at where other industries have gone before us, we don't want to be in the front one percent of that technology. But we want to be in that first five or 10 percent, right? We don't want to be the testers, but we want to be the early adopters for sure." ~ Gary Russell [26:50] - "There's no way AI will seamlessly wipe us all out. You'll have a real human working in a buddy system with a few advisors and understanding what AI can do to help." ~ Gary Russell [31:22] - "The integration of the decisions that you make and how you bring them to your team really matters. We have learned that by doing it poorly and failing our way up." ~ Gary Russell Links  Gary Russell on LinkedIn Helium Advisors Howard Morin Jocko Willink Extreme Ownership Patrick Sweeny Oleg Tishkevich Envestnet J.J. Feldman Slow Productivity Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 061: Wealth creators understand that financial planning isn't solely about maximizing returns. It's also about building a lasting legacy. By involving the next generation in family wealth discussions, advisors can help beneficiaries develop a solid financial understanding. This ensures a smoother wealth transfer and empowers future generations to manage their financial affairs effectively.  In this episode, Kyle talks with Craig Robson, Founding Principal and Managing Director at Regent Peak Wealth Advisors. In his role, Craig sets the firm's overall vision and strategy. The creation of Regent Peak Wealth Advisors is a direct result of Craig's desire to provide all relationships with objective advice free from the conflicts of interest that might come from large institutions. Craig and Kyle break down what financial planning for wealth creators looks like. They discuss the importance of using a tech stack that best suits the firm's needs rather than the one-size-fits-all approach, the flexibility of being an independent advisor, and Craig's unique approach to solving complex financial scenarios for wealth creators and their successors. In this episode: [01:24] - Craig's hockey story [02:56] - Craig's money moment [08:56] - Why Craig left one of the world's largest wirehouses [15:06] - Why Craig chooses to serve wealth creators [17:32] - How Craig's consulting experience has helped him to grow his company [22:01] - Craig's thoughts on being a fiduciary [26:54] - Why Craig is passionate about helping the next generation of investors [31:28] - How Craig succeeds in managing generational wealth [36:21] - Craig's strategy for growing organically [42:21] - Craig's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Choosing technology solutions that best fit the firm's needs, rather than being restricted by a one-size-fits-all approach, differentiates independent advisors from those tied to larger firms. Involving the next generation in family wealth discussions ensures a smooth and sustainable wealth transfer and can guard against common pitfalls. A successful financial advisory practice goes beyond asset management, incorporating life coaching and consulting services to provide holistic support to clients. Quotes [11:42] - "If you're going to take the professional risk to start your own business, don't forget why you did it." ~ Craig Robson [16:14] - "As I started to have deeper, broader conversations with clients about what was most important to them and what they wanted to accomplish in their lifetime, I realized that the more complex one situation is, the more we can help them." ~ Craig Robson [23:55] - "In our industry, it's an art and a science. The science is the actual plan itself. The art is communicating it and deciding the prioritization of what you want to follow through on." ~ Craig Robson Links  Craig Robson on LinkedIn Regent Peak Wealth Advisors FP Alpha Merrill Lynch HubSpot Salesforce Morgan Stanley Connor McDavid Outliers Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 060: Operations is the cornerstone of any organization, and technology is integral to successful business operations. Their integration revolutionizes any organization, and wealth management is no exception. By automating tasks, streamlining workflows, and connecting disparate systems, technology has become an indispensable tool for improving operational efficiency. This increased efficiency empowers advisors to focus more on what they do best: serving their clients, building lasting relationships, and providing personalized financial guidance. In this episode, Kyle talks with Chrissy Lee, Chief Operating Officer of Merit Financial Advisors. Chrissy is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the firm, working within the executive leadership team and each department within the organization to create efficiencies and streamline the client service experience. She is also responsible for operational strategy, driving strategic growth through mergers and acquisitions, and overseeing onboarding processes, business development, and technology implementations to create a best-in-class experience for the Merit community. Kyle talks with Chrissy about the importance of operational efficiency in wealth and asset management. She discusses the challenges of integrating technology, the significance of human relationships in wealth management, and how technology should enhance, rather than replace, these relationships. In this episode: [02:32] - Chrissy's money moment [06:15] - What it takes to be a great operator [10:16] - What Merit Connect is all about [13:03] - Chrissy's thoughts on building a client portal [15:16] - What makes Merit Financial the right partner for firms [19:55] - Areas of operation with technology challenges [23:26] - The challenge of connecting advisor-facing and operations-facing technology [25:36] - Chrissy's thoughts about the future of the industry [30:32] - Chrissy's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Operations and technology go hand in hand. Operations is at the heart of any organization. And technology is an integral component of successful operations. Integrating operations with advanced technology can streamline processes and enhance client interactions. Operational efficiency, meticulous planning, and client-focused strategies are crucial for consolidation and acquisition firms. Technology automates and streamlines processes, allowing advisors to focus on serving their clients.   Quotes [15:27] - "One of the things that really takes away from advisors is productivity. Why not allow advisors to stay in their "hot zone," which is to serve their clients and have that relationship with the clients?" ~ Chrissy Lee [20:11] - "Operations and technology go hand in hand. Operations is at the heart of an organization because you have the relationships. And if we don't have the right technology or if it's limited, it is difficult because it becomes a manual process." ~ Chrissy Lee [27:46] - "People are not numbers. You can only send so much data and analysis to someone, you know? They want someone who cares, who is listening, and who is hearing their story." ~ Chrissy Lee Links  Chrissy Lee on LinkedIn Merit Financial Advisors Farmers Insurance Merit Connect The Map Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 059: CG Financial's expansion into property and casualty insurance is a unique strategy in the advisory space. While many firms focus on core expertise, CG Financial has ventured into new territories, taking advantage of its internal expertise. Its proactive use of EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System), diversification into new business lines, and commitment to technological excellence set the bar for strategic growth and leadership. In this episode, Kyle talks with Jeff Casey, President and Partner at CG Financial Services. As a Founding Partner and Senior Financial Advisor, Jeff has been a pillar of CG Financial's foundation, specializing in comprehensive wealth management, executive compensation, and corporate retirement plans. He works to build and implement business strategies across the four divisions of CG Financial Services: Individual Wealth Management, Business Services, CG Advisor Network, and CG Insurance Agency. Jeff talks with Kyle about the strategic expansion and innovation driving CG Financial's success. He shares CG Financial's transition to implementing EOS, its integration of property and casualty insurance into its service offering, and the importance of technology in enhancing business capabilities. In this episode: [01:45] - Jeff's money moment [03:40] - Why Jeff chose a career in finance [06:10] - Implementing EOS [09:53] - Expansion into property and casualty insurance [15:21] - How CG Financial's insurance business works [18:06] - Personal growth and development [23:15] - Innovative data management and core processes [30:31] - The qualities of a good leader [33:03] - Jeff's thoughts about the future of RIAs [35:34] - Jeff's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Integrating EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) and strategic use of technology has revolutionized CG Financial's operations, offering greater visibility and efficiency. Diversification into property and casualty insurance demonstrates a unique approach to enhancing client value within a financial advisory firm. Effective leadership and investing in young talent are critical for sustainable growth and maintaining a competitive edge. Fostering a culture of continuous improvement and strategic geographic expansion has been vital to CG Financial's sustained growth and success. Quotes [23:42] - "Technology is so important in the evolution of our business. We want to make sure that we can stay at the cutting edge of providing the best resources and solutions for our clients in any line of business that we offer." ~ Jeff Casey [24:41] - "Data warehouse is a way for us to store data securely, organize that data, and have it in a fashion that allows your team to adapt should you decide to change things in the future." ~ Jeff Casey [31:46] - "Every business owner has to look internally at what makes you good, what makes you great, and try to find those same qualities in the people that you're hiring and the people that you're developing." ~ Jeff Casey Links  Jeffrey Casey on LinkedIn CG Financial Services Ameriprise Financial Tony Mazzali Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 058: Financial advisory firms always look for innovative ways to create a culture of growth. Internal promotions and residency programs are some unique and great strategies. By nurturing talent and creating opportunities for advancement, specializing in a specific niche, and the strategic integration of technology, firms can cultivate seasoned advisors who understand the company's core values and philosophy and offer comprehensive planning solutions that truly resonate with clients. In this episode, Kyle talks with Patrick Sweeny, Chairman and CEO of Apella Wealth and Co-founder of Symmetry Partners. Patrick focuses on investor education and the strategic growth of the firm. He is a recognized speaker on asset-class investing and transforming advisor businesses into more efficient models. Patrick and Kyle discuss how to create a culture of growth through internal promotions and residency programs, the advantages of focusing on a specific niche, and the importance of technology in providing comprehensive planning services. In this episode: [01:31] - Patrick's money moment [03:36] - The difference between institutional and retail clients [04:24] - The evolution of Apella Partners [08:52] - Finding executive talent from within [13:09] - How Apella's residency program works [17:28] - Manging acquired companies [20:00] - How Apella successfully delivers comprehensive planning services  [24:24] - Apella's tech stack [29:19] - Organic growth [33:48] - Apella's strategy for collecting and leveraging data [36:09] - Patrick's outlook on the future of the industry [38:33] - Patrick's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Financial advisors can differentiate themselves from the industry by delivering services that are important to clients. A residency program is a unique and great way to onboard people who can provide meaningful advice, act as real advisors on real accounts, and do real planning. The most successful advisors have a niche. They understand their niche and can train their clients for success. Having internal employees promoted to C-level positions helps maintain the company's culture, core values, and philosophy. Quotes [18:35] - "We always talk in this business about how you differentiate yourself. You don't need to think long and hard about it. You differentiate yourself by delivering more services that are important to clients." ~ Patrick Sweeny [21:08] - "The most successful advisors have a niche. They understand their niche, and when the prospect sits in front of them, they quickly realize, this is my person. This is my advisor because they know everything there is to know about me already."~ Patrick Sweeny [28:07] - "This is still a relationship business. People want a relationship in place with someone they trust. And technology is there for us to leverage and use to make us more effective at what we do." ~ Patrick Sweeny Links  Patrick Sweeny on LinkedIn Apella Wealth Symmetry Partners Jason Gentile Jim Scanlan Jason Schuck Bogle On Mutual Funds A Randon Walk down Wall Street Vanguard Dimensional Fund Advisors Envestnet Meghan Martin Orion Advisor Solutions eMoney Advisor Salesforce Dave Bulter Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 057: Financial advisors often go beyond the confines of business to become trusted guides in their client's financial lives. More than crafting investment strategies and managing portfolios, advisors offer support and expertise to individuals and families through various life stages and financial challenges.  In this episode, Kyle talks with Scott Hanson, Co-Founder and Vice Chair at Allworth Financial. A nationally recognized financial expert, Scott has been named to Barron's list of the Top 100 Independent Wealth Advisors in America numerous times and has been listed as one of the 25 most influential people in the financial services industry nationwide. For more than 29 years, Scott has co-hosted Money Matters, a financial radio program and podcast, making it one of the longest-running shows of its kind in America. Scott talks with Kyle about what makes financial advisory a noble profession. He discusses his early experiences in the industry and the shift toward a more inclusive and diverse approach to financial advising. Scott also shares Allworth Financial's successful consolidation strategy, the importance of marketing as a business development tool, and why they're a sought-after partner for firms.  In this episode: [01:36] - Scott's money moment [02:41] - Scott's early career in financial services [07:06] - Allworth Financial's approach [09:24] - The driving force behind Allworth's growth [13:03] - Why organic growth is difficult for some firms [15:50] - How radio and podcasting has impacted Allworth's growth [20:11] - Stepping down from leadership [28:05] - Scott's outlook on the future of the industry [35:21] - What good planning looks like [36:22] - Scott's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways What makes financial advice a noble pursuit is guiding clients through life's diverse challenges, embodying a role far beyond asset management. Marketing is one of the most effective ways to grow organically. A proactive approach to marketing and client development is critical. Embracing a blend of data-driven decision-making and a client-centric approach is pivotal to the industry's growth and success. Quotes [06:14] - "The longer I'm in this industry, the more noble I believe it is. I've personally held clients' hands through lots of different things, whether financial markets going crazy or their personal lives going crazy. Navigating the clients through all those different seasons is tremendously valuable to them." ~ Scott Hanson [33:35] - "If someone's at Allworth, they're going to be well served. One of the reasons I'm passionate about continuing to grow the organization is there are a lot of people out there who need good financial advice, and I would love to be able to provide it to them." ~ Scott Hanson Links  Scott Hanson on LinkedIn Allworth Financial Lincoln Financial Focus Financial Partners Johnson Financial Group Money Matters Radio Show and Podcast Pat McClain Dan Sullivan Strategic Coaching John Bunch Switch on Your Brain Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 056: Partnering with a platform that prioritizes service over growth offers valuable opportunities for advisors and financial institutions. This strategic approach, combined with the power of technology and data analytics, streamlines operations and fosters deeper client connections. Priority Financial Group's approach to wealth management, rooted in flexibility, control, freedom, and technology, is a blueprint for success in the financial services industry. In this episode, Kyle talks with Mike Prior, CEO of Priority Financial Group. With more than 25 years of experience in the securities industry, Mike helps advisors and financial institutions reach their unique goals. He is a recognized industry expert and sought-after speaker who helps financial institutions adopt and implement a best practices approach to building successful investment services programs.  Kyle and Mike discuss revolutionizing wealth management for advisors and credit unions, and the importance of data and technology in achieving clients' goals. In this episode: [02:27] - Mike's money moment [05:01] - What inspired Mike to start Priority Financial Group (PFG) [09:25] - Why Idaho Central Credit Union partnered with Priority Financial Group [10:52] - Why credit unions prefer the RIA model over traditional brokers-dealers [12:41] - Partnering with the University of Southern California [17:21] - Consolidation in the credit union space [19:03] - Mike's outlook on the future of credit unions [21:56] - How PFG helps credit unions capitalize on their data [24:30] - How PFG delivers its robo-advisor platform [26:43] - Mike's Milemarker minute Key Takeaways Priority Financial Group's innovative approach to wealth management services for advisors and financial institutions sets a new standard in the industry, driving innovation and success in a competitive market. Providing options to RIAs and financial institutions enables them to tailor their services to meet the specific needs of their clients. The integration of technology and data analytics drives growth, streamlines operations, and enhances client relationships. Quotes [07:00] - "About 10 years ago, when we formed the RIA, it was to come up with a different idea, an alternative that was RIA-forward and RIA-focused. We are an RIA platform for advisors and financial institutions." ~ Mike Prior [08:31] - "I've seen a lot of really neat things happening in the fintech space. But when financial institution people see what we have related to our core platforms, they're pretty impressed." ~ Mike Prior [11:37] - "We care about every single advisor, every single client. That matters to us. Every institution is a client, a friend, and a partner. We don't have crazy growth goals; we have crazy service goals." ~ Mike Prior Links  Mike Prior on LinkedIn Priority Financial Group Charles Schwab Fidelity Investments American Express Orion Advisor Solutions CRM - Redtail Technology Salesforce Idaho Central Credit Union University of Southern California USC Credit Union Difficult Conversations Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 055: In this episode, Kyle talks with Shannon Spotswood, CEO at RFG Advisory, about empowering independent advisors through technology. Shannon discusses the importance of a tech-forward approach to delivering services and optimizing internal processes and what it takes to become the RIA of the future. She also shares the foundational pillars of RFG 2.0 and offers a glimpse into the future with RFG 3.0 and the strategic initiatives driving the platform's growth. In this episode: [03:23] - Shannon's money moment [07:39] - Shannon's first experience with wealth management [09:16] - Why Shannon left her career in wealth management [11:01] - How Shannon got back into the industry [15:15] - The beginnings of RFG 2.0 [19:04] - How Shannon helped RFG grow more than twice the industry average [24:20] - How RFG helps advisors succeed [32:22] - What RFG 3.0 is and how it works [39:02] - What it's like to lead a successful wealth management firm [45:32] - Shannon's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Technology allows advisors to build enterprise value and deliver a frictionless advisor experience. It empowers them to operationalize and professionalize their business. Advisors deserve high-touch service, advanced technology, and comprehensive support to deliver exceptional client experiences. RFG Advisory's data-driven approach and focus on operational efficiency provides advisors with the tools and resources needed to become the RIA of the future. Becoming the RIA of the future means serving multi-generational clients wherever they are in their financial lifecycle and doing it profitably. The client of the future needs a financial life advisor. They want to live richly, not just die rich.  Quotes [17:33] - "My obligation and duty in the industry is not only to be a mentor and a champion for innovation but also for RFG to be a testimony that if you link arms with talented people, you're aligned on your mission, and you're willing to walk through that trench and that valley, you can build something reflective of these big dreams." ~ Shannon Spotswood [29:15] - "Advisors deserve more. They deserve a tech stack that is as frictionless as possible. They deserve centralized operations. They deserve a team that is wrapped around them, highly trained, motivated, and force multipliers for their clients and their growth. They deserve marketing and coaching resources anchored around the business they want to build." ~ Shannon Spotswood  [37:45] - "We are builders. We are servants. We like to build something bigger than ourselves. That ‘service above self' unites us all and drives us to get out of bed in the morning." ~ Shannon Spotswood  Links  Shannon Spotswood on LinkedIn RFG Advisory Beating the Street Liar's Poker Den of Thieves Nuveen Bobby White Rick Wedell Jim Bowen First Trust Long Ridge Abby Salameh Kenneth Kim Brendan Frazier Jud Mackrill Amp It Up Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 54: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Ted Bovard, Principal at Fort Pitt Capital Group. Ted shares his unconventional path to wealth management and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. Emphasizing the importance of long-term planning over chasing returns, Ted discusses Fort Pitt's client-first approach, the firm's five-step onboarding process, and how they leverage teamwork and technology to enhance their services. Kyle and Ted also explore the importance of strong core values, and the impact of AI and technology on the future of financial services.

Episode 053: For many advisors, transitioning from wirehouse firms to independent practices is not just about autonomy—it's about building a business that aligns with their vision and values. However, true independence comes with its own set of challenges. To thrive, advisors need the right technology. When chosen strategically, technology becomes a key partner in building strong client relationships and delivering meaningful financial planning. In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle talks with Jason Barber, CEO and Co-Founder of Uptick Partners. Jason helps advisors and investors achieve independence. He is also the CEO and Co-Founder of Holistic Planning, where he delivers high-quality, comprehensive, and unbiased financial advice to individuals and families. Jason talks with Kyle about how breakaway advisors achieve true independence. He shares why he left a large wirehouse, the challenges and opportunities of establishing an independent advisory firm, and the importance of aligning personal values with professional goals. In this episode: [02:01] - Jason's money moment [08:12] - What Jason learned from his time at Cutco [11:06] - The similarities between selling a product and selling services [13:17] - What made Jason leave wirehouse firms and start an independent RIA [22:58] - Jason's concept for launching an independent RIA [26:57] - The challenges of selecting the right tech stack [32:55] - Jason's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Having the right tech stack can help advisors avoid wasting time and resources. By prioritizing simplicity, functionality, and technology aligned with the firm's values, advisors can enhance client service, simplify operations, and avoid unnecessary complications. The shift toward independence allows advisors to create a tailored and impactful advisory practice, focused on client relationships and meaningful financial planning. Entrepreneurs in the financial advisory space have to be able to navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and maintain a client-centric approach. Quotes [23:06] - "We want to provide you with the things you have to have and nothing more. As for the things you must have, we'll do a great job." ~ Jason Barber [24:39] - "There's a big opportunity to help people, and people want what we do because we actually do it and have done it ourselves." ~ Jason Barber [31:37] - "Most advisors want to log into one thing in the morning. They want to have a CRM and a portfolio management tool, they want to be able to do their billing, they want to have a built-in TAMP, and they want to have it all in one place. And that's what we've got with Advyzon." ~ Jason Barber Links  Jason Barber on LinkedIn Uptick Partners Holistic Planning Steve Barber Edward Jones Dell Cutco Vector Marketing Raymond James Wealthbox Advyzon Nitrogen Wealth RightCapital MoneyGuidePro The Holy Grail of Investing Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 052: Successful advisory firms recognize that having the right people is an investment in the organization's future. But it's more than simply filling seats. It's about cultivating a team that is passionate about the industry, thrives in a collaborative environment, and is genuinely enthusiastic about contributing to its success.  In this episode, Kyle talks with Lori Van Dusen, Founder and CEO of LVW Advisors. An advocate of client-focused strategies, Lori provides comprehensive, integrated solutions to a fragmented financial services industry. She is the author of the Wall Street Journal bestselling book Running with Grace: A Wall Street Insider's Path to True Leadership, a Purposeful Life, and Joy in the Face of Adversity.  Lori talks with Kyle about what it takes to build a successful advisory firm. She discusses the importance of mentorship, succession planning, and investing in the right people. Lori also shares insights from her book, highlighting resilience and overcoming adversity. In this episode: [03:06] - Lori's money moment [06:06] - Lori's thoughts on going independent [10:12] - What motivated Lori to start her advisory firm [12:16] - What it takes to build a successful firm [16:50] - Why failure isn't a threat [18:39] - The inspiration behind Lori's book, Running with Grace [22:31] - Key takeaways from Running with Grace [25:16] - How technology plays a role in running a business [28:12] - Lori's outlook about the future of the industry [30:02] - Why many people fail to plan for succession [33:18] - Lori's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Investing in people is investing in the future of the organization. Great people, a great team, and a mindset dedicated to giving back to the industry drive business success. Building a successful advisory firm begins with building a strong and culture-focused team. Succession planning and strategic business development ensure long-term sustainability and growth. Similarly to stress testing a portfolio, stress testing a business allows businesses to operate seamlessly. Quotes [14:10] - "You have to study each client base that you're serving and say, 'What is it that they need that's not out there?' Then you have to find people you can partner with so it is seamless to solve problems." ~ Lori Van Dusen [13:04] - "Our whole business is based on understanding the client's unique situation, the problems they're having, and the implications of those problems, and then solving for that." ~ Lori Van Dusen [15:38] - "The rankings or recognitions we've got simply come back to having great people, a great team, and the mindset that you're not only wanting to solve problems for clients but also giving back to the industry." ~ Lori Van Dusen Links  Lori Van Dusen on LinkedIn LVW Advisors Running with Grace Morgan Stanley Merrill Lynch Salesforce eMoney Advisor Envestnet | Tamarac Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 51: In this episode, Kyle talks with Lisa Crafford, Managing Director & Head of Advisory at Constellation Wealth Capital. Throughout her career, Lisa has worked for small family-owned businesses, large retail franchises, non-profits, and Fortune 500 companies across Australia and the U.S. At Constellation Wealth Capital, Lisa leads the advisory team and works alongside partner firms to help them grow and strengthen their business.  Lisa talks with Kyle about the importance of people in the wealth management industry. She highlights the value of internships and the need for firms to invest in their employees. Lisa also discusses the impact of technology, data, and professionalization in shaping the future of the financial industry. In this episode [01:57] - Lisa's money moment [05:25] - What netball is and how it works [07:58] - What makes Constellation different from other capital partners [12:40] - Why the wealth management industry has become a target for investors [16:04] - Why financial planning extends far beyond retirement planning [19:08] - The impact of data on RIA valuation [23:40] - The industry's trend toward professionalization [27:38] - Why many firms struggle to answer the growth question [32:24] - The value of internships [39:23] - Lisa's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Wealth management is fundamentally a people's business. It is important to focus on client relationships and people across all roles, including advisors, operations, technology, marketing, and compliance​. Constellation Wealth Capital provides tailored capital solutions for large and rapidly growing advisory firms, emphasizing simplicity and effectiveness in their investment approach​. Technology is more than just having the latest tools. It is also about ensuring that existing technology is utilized effectively to drive firm growth and integration. Financial planning goes beyond retirement planning. It includes comprehensive wealth management that addresses clients' overall well-being, including psychological and behavioral aspects related to money. Internship programs are a great way for advisory firms to invest in the future. The financial industry provides a lot of opportunities, and it's a great place to be. Quotes [14:49] - "Our work makes a difference in people's lives. It's not just about making rich people richer. It's really about helping people understand their wealth, share and create a legacy with their wealth, and make the world a better place through what they've created with their money." ~ Lisa Crafford [21:01] - "Having the data and technology is really important. But what are you actually doing with that data? How are you using it to give your clients a better experience? There's having data, and there's using data. There's having tech and actually using it properly." ~ Lisa Crafford [30:06] - "If the employees of your firm feel connected to the mission and feel like they can contribute to that, that's a game changer in culture and morale and how the firm operates on a day-to-day basis." ~ Lisa Crafford Links  Lisa Crafford on LinkedIn Constellation Wealth Capital Karl Heckenberg Captrust Addepar Wealthbox Michael Kitces Matt Sonnen Pershing Rianka Dorsainvil The Castle Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Google Podcasts Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 050: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle talks with April Turch, Chief Compliance Officer at Wolf Group Capital Advisors. April has more than 20 years of experience specializing in financial planning and wealth management operations. She manages and oversees firm-level projects that impact the firm's success, team performance, and overall client experience. April is also responsible for helping the firm scale its operations through technology, processes, systems, and people.  April talks with Kyle about compliance and growth in wealth management. They discuss why compliance should not hinder growth, how advisors can leverage compliance to build a world-class company, the role of technology in reshaping the industry, and the regulatory challenges that AI and cryptocurrency present. In this episode: [01:58] - April's money moment. [07:19] - What makes a great operator.  [08:39] - What it takes to build a great team. [10:14] - Attracting the best people. [12:38] - Helping clients plan their wealth. [14:15] - Creating valuable content. [17:21] - Why compliance should not slow growth. [19:32] - April's thoughts about the future of the industry. [20:41] - Compliance challenges with AI. [25:03] - April's Milemarker Minute. Quotes [08:58] - "When your firm has a great culture, a great vision, and a great purpose, you naturally attract the people you want to hire. I think it's a combination of seeking and being found." ~ April Turch [12:56] - "We really take a lot of time getting to know the client and understanding what makes them tick, their thought processes, their values, their challenges, and what they are trying to achieve. Taking that time allows us to customize the things they need to get on their journey." ~ April Turch [17:46] - "We want to do what's in the client's best interest, whatever that may be. And so I help people have a compliance mindset when making those decisions on the front end so that it's not so scary on the back end." ~ April Turch Links  April Turch on LinkedIn Wolf Group Capital Advisors Financial Planning Association Bob Len Are We There Yet? Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Google Podcasts Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com. Disclosure The Connected Advisor and Wolf Group Capital Advisors are not affiliated entities. The views expressed on this program are not necessarily the views of Wolf Group Capital Advisors. All content presented is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement of any third party or such third party's views, or as a solicitation or offer to sell securities or provide investment, tax, legal, or consulting services, and should not be acted upon without obtaining specific advice from a qualified professional. We believe the information presented to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to its accuracy or completeness. All examples are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. Any opinions or statements by third parties are their own and may not be representative of the experience of others or indicative of future investment performance or success. No compensation has been exchanged for any testimonials, endorsements, and/or recognition Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. (edited) 

Episode 049: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle talks with Rob Mooney, Managing Partner and CEO of Snowden Lane Partners. Rob spent more than 22 years at Merrill Lynch in New York, Singapore, Hong Kong, and London. He was the General Counsel and Chief Business Risk Officer of Global Wealth Management and a member of the GWM Executive and Operating Committees.  Rob talks with Kyle about why Snowden Lane Partners has consistently been on the top RIA lists, the increasing trend of advisors leaving wirehouses to join independent firms, and the evolving landscape of the financial industry. Rob also discusses the role of technology in enhancing advisor capabilities and the future trends and growth potential for independent RIAs. In this episode: [02:19] - Rob's money moment. [07:03] - Different models of the independent marketplace. [07:58] - Rob's favorite country to work in. [09:50] - Why Snowden Lane is one of the leading RIA firms. [11:41] - What Rob finds exciting about independent RIAs. [14:14] - Rob's thoughts about the future of the industry. [15:36] - Snowden Lane's tech stack. [17:54] - Rob's favorite period of American history. [19:30] - Rob's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Financial advisors are increasingly seeking independence from the bureaucracy of large firms, giving rise to independent RIAs.  The industry is shifting toward customized services to better meet client needs and expectations. Technology plays a crucial role in empowering advisors to provide efficient, personalized, and innovative solutions to clients. Future trends for RIAs include consolidation, scale, and delivering value through client-centered approaches. Quotes "What gets me excited is the enormous growth potential of the independent industry. We're at a point where we're seeing consolidation in the industry. We're seeing scale grow in the industry. But there is still enormous room for boutique firms to flourish like ours." ~ Rob Mooney "We offer advisors freedom and flexibility. All of our advisors who come to Snowden Lane take equity as part of their transition in our firm, and we find that empowering and a great alignment of interests." ~ Rob Mooney "The industry is becoming increasingly personalized, customized, and efficient. On the macro front, some very large firms are emerging in the independent marketplace. But there are still opportunities for boutiques to flourish." ~ Rob Mooney Links  Rob Mooney on LinkedIn Snowden Lane Partners Merrill Lynch Global Wealth Management James Gorman Lyle LaMothe Gregory Franks Addepar eMoney Advisor MoneyGuidePro Chip War: The Fight for the World's Most Critical Technology The Coming Wave Elon Musk Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Google Podcasts Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 48: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle Van Pelt brings together some of the best clips discussing the role of technology in the growth of RIAs. Featuring James Bogart, Sammy Azzouz, Melissa Bouchillon, and Justin Steitz, this episode dives into how technology aids in organic growth, client onboarding, building a tech stack around client needs, and managing with limited resources. Learn how these industry leaders leverage technology to provide value and stay competitive in the wealth management space.  In this episode: [01:47] - James Bogart on the impact of digitization on lead flow and client referrals. [06:11] - Sammy Azzouz on the tech stack that supports advisors and helps them grow. [09:54] - Melissa Bouchillon on the role of technology in building Sound View Wealth Advisors. [13:44] - Justin Steitz on why credit unions are lagging behind in digital adoption. Links  James Bogart on LinkedIn Bogart Wealth Sammy Azzouz on LinkedIn Heritage Financial Services Melissa Bouchillon on LinkedIn Sound View Wealth Advisors Justin Steitz on LinkedIn Copper Financial Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Google Podcasts Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 047: One key element differentiating high-performing advisory firms is their ability to attract, develop, and retain the best people. This translates into a workforce that is genuinely passionate about their work, leading to increased productivity and overall company success. While technology and investment strategies are critical for modern-day advisors, building a community within the organization is a strategic investment in the future. In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle talks with Gerald Goldberg, CEO and Co-Founder at GYL Financial Synergies. In his role, Gerald provides the vision required to move the firm forward and the leadership necessary to deliver on GYL's core promise: to be a firm with a conscience that puts the client's interests first. Gerald provides advice on investment policy, asset allocation, investment selection, and wealth advisory services to corporations, municipalities, self-insurance funds, non-profit organizations, and high-net-worth private clients. Gerald talks with Kyle about the importance of value propositions, community engagement, and technology integration in financial firms. He shares insights into the industry's current and future state and presents strategies for successful organic growth and client service. In this episode: [01:34] - Gerald's money moment. [05:45] - Why attorneys are great wealth advisors. [08:02] - How GYL serves clients. [13:14] - The importance of empowering employees toward philanthropy. [18:47] - How GYL grows organically. [25:07] - Technology's role in modern-day advisory firms. [30:40] - Why technology integration is important at GYL. [34:06] - How GYL values partnerships. [38:26] - Gerald's thoughts about the future of the industry. [40:35] - What aging life care services are about. [46:50] - Gerald's Milemarker Minute: best place to eat in Connecticut, travel destination, the most fulfilling part of teaching, and possible career outside advisory services. Key Takeaways Building a community and engaging in philanthropic activities can enhance team morale, client satisfaction, and overall success. Investing in technology integration and continually improving operational systems are crucial for scaling businesses, improving efficiency, and delivering exceptional client experiences. Providing aging life care services and tailored family office solutions for clients with medium-sized wealth can address growing complexities in wealth management and ensure a holistic approach to financial planning. Collaborating with industry peers, learning from best practices, and adapting to industry trends are key factors for success. Quotes [08:47] - "Let our family take care of your family. The foundation for what we do starts with three pillars: our clients, our team members, and our community." ~ Gerald Goldberg [13:42] - "One of the key elements that will separate those who will be successful versus those who will not be is the ability to attract, develop, and retain the very best people. It's important to create a community where they're excited about getting up in the morning and being there." ~ Gerald Goldberg [25:22] - "Technology is a critical building block for the modern-day advisor and advisory firm. You're not getting out of the dugout without having some effective tech stack that puts all the pieces together." ~ Gerald Goldberg Links  Gerald Goldberg on LinkedIn GYL Financial Synergies Focus Financial Partners AmeriCorps Climate Corps Michael Lepore Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Google Podcasts Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 046: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle talks with Sammy Azzouz, President and CEO of Heritage Financial Services. In his role, Sammy leads a dynamic organization that provides meticulous wealth management services to clients. He keeps the firm at the cutting edge of the wealth management industry by charting a long-term strategic course and driving the execution of the firm's strategic initiatives. Sammy is also the author of Beyond the Basics: Maximizing, Allocating, and Protecting Your Capital, and the host of Heritage Financial's podcast, Wealthy Behavior. Sammy talks with Kyle about his journey from law school to wealth management and the importance of providing comprehensive financial services to clients. He emphasizes the value of breaking down silos and having holistic conversations about money. Sammy also shares insights on the industry's future, the role of technology in supporting advisors and enhancing the client experience, and the need for firms to focus on organic growth. In this episode: [02:20] - The money moment that led Sammy into financial services. [06:18] - Sammy's thoughts about innovations in estate and tax planning. [10:05] - Sammy's career path at Heritage Financial Services. [15:21] - How Heritage grows organically. [18:35] - The tech stack that supports advisors and helps them grow. [20:01] - The importance of analytics in business growth. [22:26] - Sammy's thoughts on the future of wealth management. [27:24] - The role of AI in the future of financial services. [30:13] - Sammy's Milemarker Minute: favorite books, potential career outside financial services, and bucket list travel destination. Key Takeaways Breaking down silos and providing comprehensive financial services is crucial to staying competitive in the industry. Employee ownership can contribute to a positive company culture and long-term success. Dedicated resources should be allocated to train and develop advisors in business development. The future of the industry may involve increased collaboration among RIAs and custodians to offer integrated solutions to clients. Technology, such as AI and analytics, can enhance the client experience and improve operational efficiency. Quotes [03:20] - "Money is probably the most stressful thing that people deal with. If you can help people with it, you can have a huge impact on their lives." ~ Sammy Azzouz [09:09] - "As you grow, you have more resources to reinvest into the client experience and your team. You want to start thinking strategically about those additional services to add value to the client and dig deeper into a pathway you've already set for yourself." ~ Sammy Azzouz [13:58] - "Employee ownership is important. It's important for multiple people to think day in and day out like business owners. Owners are definitely better than renters in a company, and it's something important and helpful in our industry." ~ Sammy Azzouz Links  Sammy Azzouz on LinkedIn Heritage Financial Services Beyond the Basics: Maximizing. Allocating, and Protecting Your Capital Wealthy Behavior on Spotify Chuck Bean Envestnet | Tamarac Pontera Betterment Melissa Mattison Vanguard J.P. Morgan Merrill Lynch Morgan Stanley Altruist Team of Rivals James: A Novel Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Google Podcasts Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 045: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle is joined by Brian Preston, Managing Partner at Abound Wealth Management and the Founder and Host of The Money Guy Show. Brian is a third-generation educator, and this desire to create educated clients led to the award-winning YouTube channel and podcast, The Money Guy Show. The Money Guy Show has been broadcasting for more than 15 years, and Brian has appeared on the Fox Business Channel and US News. Brian talks with Kyle about his book, Millionaire Mission, and discusses the financial order of operations, a nine-step system for managing money and building transformative wealth. An award-winning content creator and managing partner of a fast-growing RIA in Tennessee, Brian also shares the secrets to creating great content and the key to building wealth. In this episode: [02:31] - Brian's money moment. [06:52] - Brian's early years of creating content. [07:44] - The secret to success in content creation. [10:07] - Brian's inspiration for writing Millionaire Mission. [12:50] - A 9-step system for managing money and building wealth. [16:59] - The three key ingredients to wealth creation. [18:10] - Brian's favorite step in the financial order of operations. [19:47] - The difference between creating digital content and writing a book. [22:00] - Other features the Millionaire Mission has to offer. [25:09] - What it takes to manage a fast-growing firm. [28:46] - Challenges and considerations when adopting new technology. [30:59] - The future of the financial planning industry. [34:45] - How Brian complies with regulations in his social media content. [37:36] - Milemarker minute: the period Brian wants to go back to, hardback book vs. Kindle, and favorite football player. Key Takeaways The Financial Order of Operations is a nine-step system for managing money and building wealth. Discipline, money, and time are the three key ingredients to wealth creation. It is important to develop the discipline to save and live below your means, put your money to work through investments, and give it time to grow. Building a successful advisory firm requires a long-term mindset and a focus on providing value to clients. Invest in technology and systems that will support the growth of the firm and stay up-to-date with industry trends. Quotes "Anytime I meet a young person, I try to tell them about the wonderful world of personal finance. I think this is the greatest profession. You can make a great living for your family and employees. You also go to sleep at night, knowing you added a lot of value to everybody." ~ Brian Preston "There's a new breed of influencers and people out there in the financial space who are telling you that financial advisors are not what you need. So, you better make sure that you can tell people what and how you add value, and then you also need to make sure you're doing the things that you're telling people." ~ Brian Preston Links  Brian Preston on LinkedIn Money Guy Show on Twitter Money Guy Show on Apple Podcast The Money Guy Show on YouTube Abound Wealth Financial Order of Operations Course | Money Guy Show Progressive Commercial Millionaire Mission The Millionaire Next Door by Dr. Thomas Stanley The Wealthy Barber Resources | Money Guy Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Google Podcasts Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 44: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle talks with Scott Colangelo, Chairman and Managing Partner at Prime Capital Investment Advisors (PCIA) and Managing Director of Qualified Plan Advisors (QPA). Scott has earned several industry awards and recognition for his vision, leadership, and innovation. He leverages his industry knowledge and expertise to create customized solutions that help clients achieve their financial goals and objectives. Scott is also passionate about empowering clients with education, guidance, and tools that enhance their financial well-being and security. Scott talks with Kyle about the collaborative nature of local wealth management firms in Overland Park, Kansas. He also discusses the four pillars of a healthy firm: wealth, retirement, education, and production. Scott believes that clients will continue valuing education and personalized guidance and that technology will free up advisors' time to build relationships. Scott shares his optimism about the industry's future, emphasizing the importance of technology and AI in enhancing client relationships.  In this episode: [01:15] - Why Overland Park is a hotbed for wealth management firms. [03:50] - Collaboration among asset management firms. [10:17] - How Prime Capital practices intelligent flexibility. [14:26] - Scott's money moment that led him to a career in wealth management. [16:40] - The promise Scott made to his advisors. [21:03] - Revolutionizing company culture through equitable ownership. [22:11] - Cultivating an ego-free workplace culture. [24:26] - How Scott came up with the four components of a healthy firm. [27:56] - The characteristic shared by fast-growing companies. [32:34] - Scott's take on the future of the industry. [34:46] - Scott's Milemarker minute: potential career outside finance, bucket list travel destination, favorite books, hobbies, and favorite restaurant outside Greater Kansas City. Key Takeaways The industry is trending toward a more holistic approach, with firms offering comprehensive services in wealth management, retirement planning, education, and product production. Alignment is crucial in a firm, and Prime Capital Advisors has implemented an ownership structure that aligns the interests of advisors and the firm. Education and wellness programs are essential in helping participants reduce stress and improve their financial well-being. Technology and AI will enhance the wealth management industry by streamlining processes and allowing advisors to focus more on building personal relationships with clients. Quotes "There are simple ways for us to grow this industry, grow our practices, get more efficient, and scale better, and you can still be just as good of a fiduciary." ~ Scott Colangelo "Alignment is everything. If we're all rowing at 100% and one person is rowing at 99%, we'll eventually go a big circle and end up back where we started." ~ Scott Colangelo "If you get somebody in a good financial spot, their kids learn from that, their grandkids learn from that. They're happier in retirement. This is real impact stuff, and you're going to make more money because you're going to end up getting all their business whenever they have needs." ~ Scott Colangelo Links  Scott Colangelo on LinkedIn Prime Capital Investment Advisors Morgan Stanley Goldman Sachs Merrill Lynch Mariner Wealth Advisors Redtail Technology Nitrogen Wealth eMoney Advisor MoneyGuidePro Glenn Spencer Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Google Podcasts Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 043: In this episode, Kyle talks with Justin Steitz, President at Copper Financial. In his role, he leads sales, investment operations, compliance, and audits for the CommunityAmerica advisor channel and the broker-dealer business unit. Justin is dedicated to the credit union mantra of "people helping people" and focuses on giving back to the community. With a strong background in compliance, he is well-versed in the highly regulated wealth management industry. Before joining the Copper Financial team, Justin served as Chief Compliance Officer for Ausdal Financial Partners, Inc., where he led the effort to build an in-house broker-dealer. Justin talks with Kyle about the unique challenges and opportunities of serving the credit union space. He highlights the importance of philanthropy and community in the credit union industry and how Copper Financial is dedicated to helping credit union members invest and improve their financial well-being. Join us as we discuss: [01:47] - Copper Financial's philanthropic activities. [03:35] - Justin's money moment that led him to a career in wealth management. [06:40] - How Copper Financial creates investment programs for clients of all sizes. [11:42] - Why credit unions are lagging behind in digital adoption. [14:14] - What differentiates Copper Financial from other investment firms. [18:28] - The competitive advantages of credit unions over wealth management firms and private banks. [24:01] - The challenges and benefits of AI in the industry. [29:08] - Justin's thoughts on the future of wealth management and credit unions. [32:32] - Milemarker minute: must-see places in Kansas City, Chiefs' game vs Royals' game, and bucket list travel destination. Key Takeaways Copper Financial provides investment programs for credit unions and is driven by the credit union mantra of "people helping people." The credit union industry is community-focused and emphasizes giving back to members and the community through philanthropy and financial literacy programs. Technology, including robo-advisors and self-directed trading, is driving the evolution of credit union wealth management. Credit unions have historically been slower to adopt digital technologies due to resource constraints. There is a growing need to compete with fintech companies and provide members with digital investment options. Quotes "It doesn't matter if it's $500 or $5 million, we're going to work with them. And that was my moment of 'I'm all in.' I build products and services for credit union members to invest in. I love to help people. And it went into that mantra of people helping people. Now, I get to do it in the industry I love and help change people's lives." ~ Justin Steitz "We can be the entry point, not only digitally, and get you to start investing. Then, we have the financial advisors to grow and morph into. It's a one-stop shop." ~ Justin Steitz "It comes down to survival of the fittest with the amount of technology that's in the space. You've got to be spending money on technology in order to compete, or a customer or a member is going to go somewhere else where they have that." ~ Justin Steitz Links  Justin Steitz on LinkedIn Copper Financial CommunityAmerica Credit Union Robinhood Betterment SoFi Stash Vanguard Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Google Podcasts Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 042: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle talks with Jason Gordo, Co-founder and President of Modern Wealth Management. Jason is an accomplished wealth management executive with a diverse background in business strategy, execution, and mergers and acquisitions. He is known for his expertise in integrating tax planning into the financial planning process, helping clients optimize their financial strategies, and minimizing tax liabilities. Before joining Modern Wealth's founding team, Jason was a Managing Director at Goldman Sachs Personal Financial Management. Jason and Kyle discuss Modern Wealth's unique approach to managing wealth, mergers and acquisitions, and client retention. He shares insights into their M&A strategy and how they identify firms that align with their culture and business model. Their conversation highlights the importance of building strong relationships and providing exceptional client service. In this episode: [02:49] - The money moment that sparked Jason's interest in investing. [07:50] - How Jason has helped others with their investments. [09:51] - What inspired Jason to start Modern Wealth Management. [12:13] - What sets Modern Wealth apart from other advisory firms. [18:00] - How Modern Wealth attracts and retains clients. [20:03] - What Modern Wealth looks for when buying firms. [21:23] - How Modern Wealth acquires firms. [24:11] - Jason's future goals. [26:14] - How interest rates and capital market changes impact Modern Wealth's acquisition process. [28:16] - How Modern Wealth integrates technology in its acquisitions. [29:51] - Milemarker minute: March Madness, golf course pick, travel destination bucket list, and the best book Jason read in 2023. Key Takeaways Modern Wealth Management integrates financial planning, investment management, and tax planning to provide clients with comprehensive solutions. Modern Wealth's acquisition strategy prioritizes cultural fit, business model alignment, and the potential for long-term partnerships. Technology integration is crucial in Modern Wealth's growth and acquisition process, ensuring a seamless transition for new partners. Modern Wealth Management focuses on building a great company with exceptional partners and delivering value to clients. Quotes "I want to positively impact the people around me and the lives of the clients who have trusted me with their finances. We're giving CPAs in our business that same opportunity. We're trying to make it fun, engaging, and rewarding so that they're able to truly impact people's lives." ~ Jason Gordo "Anytime I talk to a potential partner, I talk about three different buckets: cultural fit, business model fit, and the currency makeup of a transaction." ~ Jason Gordo "Our focus every week is simple: find exceptional people who we believe would be great partners, who we believe would have a lot of fun together, and build a great company." ~ Jason Gordo Links  Jason Gordo on LinkedIn Modern Wealth Management Merrill Lynch Callaway Golf Warren Buffet Berkshire Hathaway Inc. The Millionaire Next Door Vanguard Dean Barber Michael Capelli Bud Kasper LPL Financial The Good Life Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Google Podcasts Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.

Episode 041: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle talks with Melissa Bouchillon, Managing Partner at Sound View Wealth Advisors. With a background in psychology and education, Melissa brings a different perspective to the financial advisory industry. In addition to her passion for helping her clients, Melissa is on the board of organizations near and dear to her heart, including the Landings Military Relief Fund, Marshes of Skidaway Island, and the Savannah Music Festival.  Melissa talks with Kyle about her unique approach to marketing in financial advisory. She shares how her background in psychology and education has helped her as a financial advisor. Melissa highlights the significance of simplifying complex financial concepts for clients and the role of technology in driving efficiency and enhancing client experiences.  In this episode: [01:29] - Melissa's unique marketing approach. [05:10] - The money moment that led Melissa into financial advisory. [08:15] - How Melissa's background in psychology and education has helped her as a financial advisor. [10:23] - How Melissa simplifies complex financial concepts for clients. [12:38] - Why Melissa chose to open an office in Bluffton, South Carolina. [14:19] - Why Melissa rotates staff between different office locations. [17:08] - What it takes to onboard and make employees successful. [20:02] - The role of technology in building Sound View Wealth Advisors. [23:54] - Melissa's view of the future of the RIA industry. [26:06] - Milemarker minute: longest race Melissa has ever run, her bucket list travel destination, potential career outside teaching, best book read. Key Takeaways Building a successful wealth management firm involves understanding clients' needs and driving impact in the community. Simplifying complex financial concepts is crucial for effective communication and client understanding. Building trust and rapport with clients requires active listening and understanding their unique goals and experiences. Using technology can enhance client experiences and improve decision-making. The future of the RIA industry lies in driving efficiencies, focusing on what matters, and maintaining a human-centered approach.   Quotes "A really great sign of understanding material and a subject matter is being able to explain it in a way that's not fancy and uses all the jargon but simply allows people to take action." ~ Melissa Bouchillon "Most of our decision-making is all around doing what's best for our clients first and foremost and then what's best to support the people working with us so that they really are giving our clients their best work." ~ Melissa Bouchillon "Taking the role of mentoring seriously and making sure you have people within your firm who are willing to provide guidance to the new hires and the folks working at the firm is mission-critical." ~ Melissa Bouchillon Links  Melissa Bouchillon on LinkedIn Sound View Wealth Advisors Landings Military Family Relief Fund The Marshes of Skidaway Island Savannah Music Festival Merrill Lynch Nitrogen Wealth UBS Focus Financial Partners Orion Advisor Solutions Envestnet | Tamarac Fidelity Investments Charles Schwab Hidden Levers eMoney Advisor Salesforce Atomic Habits James Clear Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Google Podcasts Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.