Podcasts about Independence

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It's Monday, August 3, A.D. 2026. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Equipping the Persecuted's warnings about endangered Nigerian Christians unheeded On July 1st, Equipping The Persecuted issued multiple terror alerts warning that Islamist Fulani Ethnic Militia were preparing coordinated attacks in Nigeria against Christian communities in the Plateau, Benue, and Southern Kaduna states. They publicly pleaded with the Nigerian government to protect these vulnerable villages before it was too late. Tragically, their warnings were ignored. In the three weeks since, more than 250 Christians have been murdered in the very communities they identified. The latest massacre took place on Saturday, August 1st in Naridon village in Southern Kaduna, where more than 30 Christians were slaughtered as terrorists attacked for hours. Once again, innocent families paid the price while help never came. Equipping The Persecuted is the only organization consistently issuing terror alerts to warn vulnerable Christian communities before attacks occur while also deploying immediate emergency aid when those attacks happen. While others document the tragedy, their teams are already on the ground paying hospital bills, delivering emergency food, caring for the wounded, and helping bury the dead. Based on the intelligence they are receiving,  Equipping The Persecuted believes this current wave of violence is only the beginning. If you want to help our brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ in Nigeria, go to www.EquippingThePersecuted.org/donate Senator Hawley to Dr. Fauci: “A million people dead. You're getting rich!” As The Worldview reported last Friday, the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee questioned Dr. Anthony Fauci, the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, about his culpability in a cover-up about the source of the COVID-19 virus and what happened subsequently.  Shockingly, Dr. Fauci invoked the Fifth Amendment 111 times, reported FoxNews. Republican Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri got righteously angry. HAWLEY: “Well, nothing says honesty like taking the Fifth, huh Doc? Let's try something. What day of the week is it today?” FAUCI: “On the advice of counsel, I respectfully decline to answer based upon my rights under the Fifth Amendment to the Constitution.” HAWLEY: “What color tie are you wearing?” FAUCI: “On the advice of counsel, I respectfully decline to answer based upon my rights under the Fifth Amendment to the Constitution.” HAWLEY:  “Let's just get one thing straight. You don't have any rights under the Fifth Amendment because you've been pardoned, as you very well know, as the Supreme Court has been clear for a century and more. Brown vs Walker, 1896: ‘When he has been pardoned, he may not stand upon his privilege.' “You know that. Your lawyers sitting behind you, now shifting nervously in their chairs, they know it. This isn't about the Constitution. This isn't about the law. This is about contempt -- contempt for this body and contempt for the American people. “But I think I know why you're doing it. It's because you don't want to answer questions. It's because you did all kinds of terrible things. It's because during the pandemic you got rich. I mean, your net worth now is north of $12 million! “You got over a million dollars in cash awards during COVID, during a 24-month span during COVID. A million bucks you knocked down in cash money using federal resources. Now you're worth more than $12 million. You've got a pension that, in its first year, paid out north of $400,000 a year. “A million people dead. You're getting rich! A million people dead. You're using federal employees to get cash awards for you. A million people dead, and you're here taking the Fifth because you don't want to admit that what really happened in all that time was a multi-month, multi-year course of self-dealing. Isn't that true, Dr. Fauci?” FAUCI: “On the advice of counsel, I respectfully decline to answer, based upon my rights under the Fifth Amendment to the Constitution.” HAWLEY: “Yeah, well, silence is admission. And here's the real thing. At the end of the day, it wasn't just about the money, really. Was it? It was really about a power trip. I mean, through all of this, you wanted to be the most famous scientist in the world. You were so focused on getting every award and every drop of cash that you could, all because you wanted to be on TV. “You wanted to be the ‘sun god' of science. You wanted to be the guy who was in charge of it all. You wanted to lambast Trump. You wanted to make sure that nobody else stole your spotlight. You wanted to be ‘the guy.' “You had time to sit for InStyle magazine. Here's what you were doing with your time. You could sit for InStyle Magazine, but you can't answer questions for the American people. You could sit for InStyle Magazine, but you're here taking the Fifth. You could sit for InStyle Magazine and get a million bucks in cash awards, but now the cat's got your tongue. I bet he does. I tell you what. “Here's my conclusion from all of this. This was really all about you the whole time. Somewhere along the way, you lost your way. You may have been a good public servant at one time. I don't know, but I can tell you from reading your emails now, from looking at what you did, how you used your employees. Somewhere along the line, it became all about you. “You became a narcissist and a megalomaniac and a liar. You've lied to the American people, and you've lied to this body, and you've disgraced your profession by doing it. You called yourself ‘the most famous scientist in the world.' You've done more to harm science than anybody in my lifetime, and I hope you'll go home and write that in your diary.” Romans 14:12 says, “So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.” By the way, check out a fascinating 17-minute video in which Scott Rouse, a behavior and body language expert, analyzes how he can tell Dr. Fauci was feeling tremendous stress during Senator Hawley's line of questioning. You can find it in our transcript today at www.TheWorldview.com. When can someone plead the Fifth? The Pour Over media outlet addressed when someone can plead the Fifth Amendment.  Any time a statement is compelled and might incriminate you.  If someone is asked to testify or hand over evidence that could get them prosecuted, they can plead the Fifth. Is there anything that can override someone's Fifth Amendment right? Yes: immunity or a pardon which Dr. Fauci had from President Joe Biden.  Pardoned people are exempt from prosecution, meaning they cannot incriminate themselves, and therefore should be allowed to invoke the Fifth Amendment. Leftist TV Host SHOCKED about our God-given rights Back on July 5, 2025, House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana, an Evangelical, affirmed that our rights come from God, not government, something he has affirmed many times since then. JOHNSON: “We are so blessed. We should not take it for granted. We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal. It does not say born equal. It says created equal. “It is our Creator that gives us our rights. We are the first nation in the history of the world that acknowledged that our rights do not derive from government. They come from God Himself. (cheers) Those words up there, that motto, it says, "In God we trust” right above the speaker's rostrum. “Congress voted to put that there as a rebuke to the Soviets' worldview at the height of the Cold War. Why? Because communism, socialism find their root in Marxism, and Marxism begins with the belief that there is no God. It's wrong, and this Congress made a stand those many years ago, and we should do it again. “We're different. We're distinct. We're exceptional because we acknowledge that right there.” On July 27th, 2026, Speaker Johnson's affirmation that our rights come from God got under the skin of leftist TV host Katy Tur on MS NOW, formerly called MSNBC,  She moderated a panel in which she questioned the legitimacy of that claim.   Listen. TUR: “What about this passage from Mike Johnson declaring that ‘our rights do not derive from government, they come from You, our Creator and Heavenly Father.' Is this him putting God over the Declaration of Independence?” Needless to say, the most famous line of the Declaration of Independence says, “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.” Jarrett Stepman of The Daily Signal rightly points out that “the concept that God is ‘above' the Declaration of Independence is in the Declaration of Independence. God's law supersedes man's law. Governments that deprive citizens of rights endowed by their Creator, without due process, are bad governments and are possibly illegitimate.” One of Katy Tur's guests on the leftist MS NOW network, Atlantic writer McKay Coppins, weighed in. He noted that her audience may not be familiar with the concept of God-given rights. COPPINS: “That idea is not wholly uncommon. I mean the idea that we have unalienable rights that come from God can be read in a fairly benign way -- which is basically that we have innate human rights, that our Constitution and our democratic government, are meant to codify. “The thing that might alarm some people is some of the rhetoric that we heard at this rally that we are in a spiritual battle, that the forces of good and evil are at work here, and that partisan politics is injected directly into the spiritual, Biblical rhetoric. “We have heard that for the last couple of years. It's been ratcheted up more and more, especially since Donald Trump lost in 2020. It can lead to some pretty dangerous places.” Lesbian co-owner of Seattle WNBA team fined for confrontation w/Christian teens As The Worldview reported on July 27th,  29-year-old Sophie Cunningham, an outspoken Christian WNBA player on the Indiana Fever team, has publicly opposed biological males competing in female sports and coming into female bathrooms and locker rooms. During the July 28th game against the Seattle Storm, two teenage girls, wearing XX-XY Athletics t-shirts, held a sign which read, “Thank you Sophie for speaking up for girls,” reports The Christian Post. Those shirts and the sign got under the skin of Celeste Keaton, a lesbian co-owner of the Seattle Storm who is faux married to co-owner Lisa Brummel.  Romans 1:24 and 26 says, “Therefore, God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. ... God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural sexual relations for unnatural ones.” Not only did Keaton use foul language, calling the teen girls “insane,” but Keaton also claimed that somehow Jesus needed to forgive the Christian girls for affirming God's design of men and women. In an interview with Brandi Kruse, who organized an event affirming Cunningham outside the arena, one of the teen girls explained what happened. TEENAGE GIRL: “We were just sitting there with our signs that said, ‘We love Sophie. Thank you, Sophie, for speaking up.' Watching the game, being super respectful. We're just holding our signs and cheering for both teams. “And this lady, older lady, comes up to us. ‘Oh, I hope Jesus can forgive you for what sin you've done.'” Kruse interjected that she noticed the girl was crying. The girl agreed and said this. TEENAGE GIRL:  “I've never been yelled at like that. I mean, I've had people hate on me on the internet, but that just took me by surprise because I thought she was gonna be nice. And then she started screaming at us. It's disappointing though too, because she's also a woman, and she just cussed out two 16-year-olds that were just trying to have fun. We're just trying to support Sophie.” Sophie Cunningham complimented the teens and blasted the Seattle Storm lesbian co-owner. Thankfully, the WNBA fined Keaton an undisclosed amount and suspended her from attending the Storm's next five home games, reports Fox13. In response, the Storm organization said, "We respect the league's decision to fine and suspend co-owner Celeste Keaton. We remain committed to creating a welcoming and respectful environment for anyone who attends a Storm game." In an X post, Sophie Cunningham wrote, “Bravo to those girls for standing up for what they believe.” She added that she was embarrassed about Seattle Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton's actions, saying, ”Shows the type of leader she is.” Three homeschool moms from Missouri, Colorado & Ontario weigh in Here at The Worldview, Nicki Jones in Carthage, Missouri said, “As a homeschool mom of four boys -- Adam (15), Elijah (13), Uriah (11), and Isaac (8), we enjoy listening to the newscast nearly every morning at the breakfast table as we do our Bible time and worldview discussions. Thank you for your faithfulness in this ministry!” Cherise in Bennett, Colorado wrote and said, “Adam, I just made a $102 donation from my children -- Dawson (14), Caidence (13), and Carmia (10). They tithe 10% to our church from cleaning houses, doing yard work, and babysitting. On top of that, they have another 10% for ‘blessings' and they chose to donate it to The Worldview. We hope it blesses you and the many, many people who listen to your newscast! Thank you for putting it out every weekday!” And Liz Williams in Ontario, Canada said, “Adam, I'm a homeschooling mom of two, with just one-year experience in homeschooling. I quit my full-time job to homeschool my 12 and 15-year-old. I'm very thankful for the work and the quality of work that The Worldview in 5 Minutes is doing. My kids and I listen to it during car rides or meals and love it. “I think one of the reasons we stick around, besides all the other good reasons, is your voice. I know you are a professional radio host. Your voice just made us feel like we are listening to a large radio station's production. I also deeply appreciate the news from a Christian worldview.” 43 Worldview listeners gave $15,409.17 And finally, by Saturday night at 6:15pm Central, 42 Worldview listeners stepped up to the plate and invested their treasure to fund the 6-member team behind The Worldview for another year. Our thanks to Josh and Gayathri in Goddard, Kansas, Yetta in Hudson, New York, and Daniel in Lititz, Pennsylvania – each of whom gave $25 as well as David in Brookings, South Dakota who gave $35. We appreciate Alan in Amelia Court House, Virginia, Amanda in Burpengary, Queensland, Australia, James in Barry, Wales, United Kingdom, and Leslie in Florham Park, New Jersey – each of whom gave $50 as well as Daniel in Clackamas, Oregon, Royal in Topeka, Kansas, Henry in Tazewell, Virginia, Mark in Grand Forks, North Dakota, Robert in Salado, Texas, and Chris in Dubois, Pennsylvania – each of whom gave $100. We're grateful to God for Cherise in Bennett, Colorado who gave $102, Daniel in Mayflower, Arkansas who pledged $10/month for 12 months for a gift of $120, Iris in Wasilla, Alaska who gave $150, Rick and Susan in Shelton, Washington who gave $200, Jeremiah in Independence, Missouri who gave $203, Tami in Dry Ridge, Kentucky and Martita in Rock Hill, South Carolina – both of whom gave $250 as well as the McVeda Family in Great Falls, Montana who gave $282.17 and Nancy in Peabody, Massachusetts who pledged $25/month for 12 months for a gift of $300. We were touched by the generosity of Dennis and Alyssa in Castle Rock, Colorado who gave $347, Ben in Ames, Iowa who gave $350, James and Mary in Glade Valley, North Carolina who gave $365, Matthew in Marysville, Ohio who gave $400, Nicki in Carthage, Missouri who will continue her $35 monthly pledge for another year for a gift of $420, as well as Lee in Rapid City, South Dakota who gave $480, and an anonymous couple in Fort Belvoir, Virginia who will continue their pledge of $40/month for 12 months for a gift of $480. And we were blown away by Krystoffer in Fullerton, California who gave $500, Justin in Wray, Colorado who gave $500, Jack in Post Falls, Idaho who gave $500, Dean in Carol Stream, Illinois who gave $500, Matt, Amanda, Malachi and Samuel Dreyer in Greencastle, Indiana who gave $500, an anonymous donor from Kitchener, Ontario, Canada who gave $500, Keith and Nicole who pledged $50/month for 12 months for a gift of $600, Nellie in Caldwell, Idaho who gave $1,000, Albert in LaGrange, Indiana who gave $1,000, Dorian in Aurora, Colorado who gave $1,000, Tim and Toni in Keller, Texas who gave $1,000, Keith in Watrous, Saskatchewan, Canada who pledged $83.34/month for 12 months for a gift of $1,000, and Elizabeth in Carol Stream, Illinois who pledged $100/month for 12 months for a gift of $1,200. Wow! Those 43 gifts add up to $15,409.17.  That's the most donors and the largest total amount we've seen in a single day throughout this July 2026 fundraiser. Ready for our new grand total? Drum roll please. (drum roll sound effect) $109,679.17 (sound effect of people cheering) For those of you who stepped up to the plate throughout the month, we are deeply grateful for your love and your sacrifice.  We need to raise $13,820.83 by tonight! But we're not across the finish line yet! In order to hit our final goal of $123,500 on this spill over day – Monday, August 3rd -- God needs to prompt folks to give the FINAL $13,820.83 in order for the 6-member Worldview newscast team to be fully funded for another year. Would you prayerfully consider being one of 27 friends to give a one-time gift of $500 or a monthly pledge of $41.67 for 12 months? Or could you be one of 14 friends to give a one-time gift of $1,000 or a monthly pledge of $83.34? To put your potential donation into perspective, think about how much you spend on your monthly cable bill or your monthly  phone bill or eating out at restaurant.  When you think about it that way, finding 27 friends to pledge $41.67 a month or 14 friends to pledge $83.34 a month seems pretty doable! Just go to TheWorldview.com, click on Give, select the dollar amount, and make sure to click on the “recurring” button if that's your wish.  And remember this, if you want to continue your monthly pledge to The Worldview that you started prior to July 1, 2026, please email us so we can count your generous ongoing gift toward our total.  That would help tremendously. Help us get across this finish line. What is God prompting you to do right now? Go to TheWorldview.com and click on Give. Close And that's The Worldview on this Monday, August 3rd, in the year of our Lord 2026. Subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Michele Thompson

Get the 200+ Page Optimal Living Daily Workbook (PDF) - Free. Want to turn today's episode into an actionable plan? Join the Optimal Living Weekly newsletter and I'll send you our 200-page digital workbook immediately. It's packed with the best takeaways from the show, formatted for easy reading and implementation at home. Get your free PDF workbook here: https://oldpodcast.eo.page/join Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3651: The Mad Fientist applies Maslow's hierarchy to money, mapping five levels of financial needs from Survival and Sustainability up through Accumulation, Independence, and Utilization. Knowing which level you are on brings clarity to your personal finance priorities and more empathy for people at other stages of the journey to financial independence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.madfientist.com/hierarchy-of-financial-needs/ Quotes to ponder: "Since it's unlikely you will be physically able to work your entire life, you eventually need to get to the point where you can pay all your expenses without working." "The Hierarchy of Financial Needs is useful when talking about finances with other people because it allows you to be more understanding of different situations and more empathetic." "The more you think about the top level of the pyramid while you're on the journey to financial independence, the easier and more enjoyable that journey will be." Optimal Finance Daily is a daily personal finance podcast where we narrate the best articles on financial independence, investing, saving money, and money management, read to you by a professional narrator so you can grow your wealth a little more every day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get the 200+ Page Optimal Living Daily Workbook (PDF) - Free. Want to turn today's episode into an actionable plan? Join the Optimal Living Weekly newsletter and I'll send you our 200-page digital workbook immediately. It's packed with the best takeaways from the show, formatted for easy reading and implementation at home. Get your free PDF workbook here: https://oldpodcast.eo.page/join Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3651: The Mad Fientist applies Maslow's hierarchy to money, mapping five levels of financial needs from Survival and Sustainability up through Accumulation, Independence, and Utilization. Knowing which level you are on brings clarity to your personal finance priorities and more empathy for people at other stages of the journey to financial independence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.madfientist.com/hierarchy-of-financial-needs/ Quotes to ponder: "Since it's unlikely you will be physically able to work your entire life, you eventually need to get to the point where you can pay all your expenses without working." "The Hierarchy of Financial Needs is useful when talking about finances with other people because it allows you to be more understanding of different situations and more empathetic." "The more you think about the top level of the pyramid while you're on the journey to financial independence, the easier and more enjoyable that journey will be." Optimal Finance Daily is a daily personal finance podcast where we narrate the best articles on financial independence, investing, saving money, and money management, read to you by a professional narrator so you can grow your wealth a little more every day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get the 200+ Page Optimal Living Daily Workbook (PDF) - Free. Want to turn today's episode into an actionable plan? Join the Optimal Living Weekly newsletter and I'll send you our 200-page digital workbook immediately. It's packed with the best takeaways from the show, formatted for easy reading and implementation at home. Get your free PDF workbook here: https://oldpodcast.eo.page/join Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3651: The Mad Fientist applies Maslow's hierarchy to money, mapping five levels of financial needs from Survival and Sustainability up through Accumulation, Independence, and Utilization. Knowing which level you are on brings clarity to your personal finance priorities and more empathy for people at other stages of the journey to financial independence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.madfientist.com/hierarchy-of-financial-needs/ Quotes to ponder: "Since it's unlikely you will be physically able to work your entire life, you eventually need to get to the point where you can pay all your expenses without working." "The Hierarchy of Financial Needs is useful when talking about finances with other people because it allows you to be more understanding of different situations and more empathetic." "The more you think about the top level of the pyramid while you're on the journey to financial independence, the easier and more enjoyable that journey will be." Optimal Finance Daily is a daily personal finance podcast where we narrate the best articles on financial independence, investing, saving money, and money management, read to you by a professional narrator so you can grow your wealth a little more every day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Each of us forms one body in Christ, yet God has given us distinct gifts according to His grace. Today, we continue our series on Spiritual Gifts by focusing on two essential motivations within the church: Leadership and Mercy. Using the biblical examples of Nehemiah and the Apostle John, we break down what these gifts look like in practice, their characteristics, how they can be misused, and how Jesus ultimately modeled both for us. Key Scriptures: Romans 12:4–8 1 Corinthians 12:1 & 1 Peter 4:10 Nehemiah 1–4 1 John 4, 3 John, John 11 & 13 Get Involved:

President Trump said that he wouldn't object to temporarily withdrawing Todd Blanche as his nominee for attorney general amid resistance from two Republican senators, another blow to Blanche's confirmation battle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today's Post - https://bahnsen.co/4wwsHI5 David Bahnsen reviews this week's Fed meeting, noting some credible forecasts expected a surprise 25–50 bp hike, though the Fed ultimately held. He argues the Fed's rationale was unusually direct: financial conditions tightened without a hike as yields rose across the curve, and further tightening should prioritize stopping balance-sheet expansion after $200–$250B of added assets this year. Bahnsen contrasts camps calling for hikes because inflation has stayed above 2% with those citing falling TIPS-implied inflation expectations near 2%, while emphasizing Warsh's market-focused approach and opposition to investors “gaming” Fed guidance (“play the ball, not the referee”). Warsh rejects a Phillips-curve tradeoff, saying price stability and full employment are not in conflict and inflation harms labor markets. Bahnsen expects falling hike odds and is skeptical rates rise this year, viewing Warsh as reform-minded but incremental, independent from President Trump despite citing tariffs and oil-driven supply shocks. 00:00 Welcome and Setup 00:36 Why This Fed Meeting 03:36 Case for Rate Hike 05:12 Fed Transparency Shift 08:22 Markets Tightened Already 10:21 Balance Sheet First 14:11 Warsh Philosophy Shift 16:50 Hike Odds and Outlook 17:55 Independence and Politics 20:47 Closing Takeaways 22:44 Sign Off and Weekend Links mentioned in this episode: DividendCafe.com TheBahnsenGroup.com

One of the things I've been thinking about lately is the idea of independence versus interdependence. As business owners, especially in the massage and wellness industry, we often celebrate independence. In fact, for many of us, independence was the reason we started our businesses in the first place. We wanted freedom: freedom from a boss, freedom from being told when we could take holidays, and freedom to choose our clients, our hours, our pricing, and our direction. Independence is incredibly attractive because, for many people, it represents choice. But what I've noticed over the years is that independence isn't where growth ends. It's just one stage of the journey. Host: Elicia Crook is a business coach and mentor for massage therapists, sharing the tactics she used to create her business success over 16 years. She is a diploma-qualified remedial massage therapist, using modalities such as Bowen and craniosacral therapy, and has a Cert IV in Workplace Training and Assessment, which she used while teaching massage for several years. Through her career and business experience, Crook discovered who she needed to be and what is required to run a deeply satisfying massage business. Now she takes the Fully Booked Without Burnout blueprint to other therapists around the world to create more success and passion. For more information, visit https://healthleaderco.com/   Resources: Health Leader Mastery  Health Leader Mastery is our flagship 12-month coaching and mentoring program designed for massage and wellness professionals who want to grow a profitable, sustainable practice without burnout. Through a combination of training, coaching, accountability, planning, leadership development, and a supportive community, you'll gain the systems, strategies, and confidence to attract more clients, increase your impact, and build a practice you genuinely love. https://healthleaderco.com/mastery The Pain Australia Mapping: https://www.painaustralia.org.au/static/uploads/files/mpact.pdf   Making the Leap to a Full-Time Business" https://www.abmp.com/learn/course/making-leap-full-time-business-part-1-mindset   Sponsor: Save time and reduce stress with MassageBook. It's not just software—it's a comprehensive solution that handles online scheduling, payment processing, and marketing campaigns, making it easier for you to provide your clients with top-notch care. Enjoy free, unlimited access for 30 days and save on your monthly subscription with your exclusive ABMP member discount.  Special Offer:  Right now, MassageBook is offering listeners $50 off when they sign up with coupon code ABMP50. Start your free 30-day trial today and transform your practice with tools designed to increase bookings and streamline client management.  Connect with MassageBook:  Visit their website: MassageBook  Follow MassageBook on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn   

DIR-Expert Jackie Bartell returns this episode to discuss how to provide expectations for children with developmental differences in order to foster independence and developmental progress using a ⁠Developmental, Individual differences, Relationship-based (DIR®)⁠ approach. I present a few challenges we are currently facing at home and Jackie coaches me on how to implement some straight-forward practices to provide some relief for our family.Link to the show notes with links to key discussion points and other ways to view or hear the episode here: ⁠⁠https://affectautism.com/2019/08/19/fostering-independence/⁠Consider joining our DIR® Parent Network or becoming an Affect Autism member for bonus content and support from a like-minded community of Floortimers here: ⁠⁠⁠https://affectautism.com/support/⁠

In an era of instant global communication, it is hard to fathom a time when it took it took months to communication across the Atlantic or weeks to send letters across the colonies.  But that's the world in which our country was founded.  The role of newspapers is such a vital component to our founding as it's how word of the new Declaration of Independence was transmitted to gain public support for the American Revolution.  To further expound on the role of newspapers and "viral" content for that era, we are pleased to welcome a close friend of Constituting America, Gary Porter to our show.  Gary Porter is a prolific writer and is the founder of former executive director of the Constitution  Leadership Initiative.

ADALive! Episode 156: Possibilities: Redefining Blindness, Independence, and Helen Keller's Legacy by Southeast ADA Center

Republican lawmakers are voicing strong opposition to the way Maryland's upcoming redistricting special session is being handled. A man convicted in a deadly Hagerstown shooting has been sentenced to life in prison plus 20 years. Frederick County seniors will have the opportunity to refresh their driving skills through a new partnership between the Division of Aging and Independence and AARP. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A review of Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas in 2026. Earlier this year, Matt took a seven-night Caribbean cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas from Port Miami. Matt shares his experience navigating flight cancellations due to a Georgia storm and the Miami Marathon's impact on transportation. He praises the ship's cleanliness, exceptional dining in both the main dining room and specialty restaurants, and highlights Perfect Day at CocoCay, Puerto Rico, and Saint Thomas as memorable ports. Despite limited grab-and-go food options and slightly longer disembarkation, Matt considers the cruise excellent value, recommending it for families and couples alike.Hear his complete thoughts in this week's inerview.  Share your thoughts: doug@cruiseradio.net  Sponsor Cruise line protection is designed to help if you can't take your cruise. Third-party travel insurance helps protect you during the trip. Including medical care, delays, and unexpected issues. Compare plans and save up to 30% at TripInsurance.com. About Cruise Radio: Cruise Radio has been delivering cruise news, ship reviews, and money-saving tips weekly since 2009.

When you marry a covert narcissist, you may not realize that you are being assigned a full-time job: Keep him praised, pleased, protected, admired, and emotionally supplied at all times. The covert narcissist may appear quiet, humble, sensitive, or misunderstood to everyone else. But behind closed doors, he expects you to build your entire life around him. Here are 10 demands commonly placed on the covert narcissist's "cheerleader": 1. Constant attention He expects your time, focus, and immediate interest in everything he says. 2. Total devotion He does not simply want love. He wants to become the center of your world. 3. Endless praise You are expected to celebrate every idea, accomplishment, and opinion—whether it deserves praise or not. 4. Complete submission Disagreement is treated as disrespect. Independence is viewed as rebellion. 5. Affection on demand Your comfort, health, and emotional readiness may be ignored because his wants always come first. 6. Reverence disguised as respect Healthy mutual respect is not enough. He expects admiration without accountability. 7. Immediate attention to his needs You are expected to anticipate what he wants before he even asks. 8. Acceptance of blame Every problem in his life, your marriage, or the family somehow becomes your fault. 9. Agreement with everything he believes He must always be right, while your perspective is dismissed or mocked. 10. A cheerful attitude at all times He can complain, criticize, and rage—but you are expected to smile and remain pleasant. No spouse can meet these impossible standards. Yet the more you try, the more exhausted, confused, and invisible you become. Your feelings, needs, pain, dreams, and opinions slowly disappear because your entire identity has been reduced to supplying the narcissist. That is not mutual love. That is covert narcissistic abuse.

With Josh Tomolak, Vice President of Independent Advisor Services, Diamond Consultants Louis Diamond and Josh Tomolak unpack today's IBD vs. RIA landscape, explaining what has changed, where each model excels, and how to determine which path best supports the business you want to build. In Summary The independent wealth management landscape has changed dramatically, making the decision between an independent broker dealer (IBD) and an RIA more nuanced than ever before. Louis Diamond welcomes Diamond Consultants' Vice President of Independent Advisor Services, Josh Tomolak, for a practical discussion of how the independent space has evolved, what truly differentiates the IBD and RIA models today, and how advisors can evaluate which path best aligns with the business they want to build. The Storyline Not long ago, the decision to become independent was relatively straightforward. Advisors either remained with a traditional firm or pursued independence through one of a limited number of models. Today, the conversation is far more complex. Independent broker dealers have significantly expanded their capabilities, offering stronger technology, larger transition packages, greater flexibility, and even pathways to RIA ownership. At the same time, the RIA ecosystem has matured into a sophisticated marketplace supported by multiple custodians, outsourced service providers, institutional capital, and enterprise platforms that rival many of the industry's largest firms. As these developments have unfolded, the traditional distinctions between an IBD and an RIA have become less obvious. Advisors evaluating their options are no longer simply asking whether they should become independent—they're asking which model best supports the clients they serve, the business they envision, and the lifestyle they want to create. In this Industry Update, Louis and Josh unpack the realities behind the IBD vs. RIA decision. They discuss where the two models overlap, where meaningful differences still exist, and why factors like service, technology, economics, operational responsibility, enterprise value, and long-term optionality often matter more than labels alone. Whether you're considering changing independent firms, launching your own RIA, or simply want a better understanding of how the independent landscape has evolved, this conversation provides an objective framework for evaluating today's choices—and preparing for tomorrow's opportunities. Topics Covered Independent Broker Dealer (IBD) vs. RIA models The evolution of supportive independence Technology investments across the independent space Transition support and advisor mobility Capital solutions and recruiting economics Business formation and enterprise value Launching an independent RIA Multi-custodial platforms and open architecture Minority investments and succession planning Future trends shaping advisor independence > Download a transcript of this episode… Listen and Learn Highlights for Advisors Why are already-independent advisors reconsidering their current model? (5:27) Josh explains why service, technology, economics, and growing optionality are causing advisors to reevaluate their existing affiliations. How have independent broker dealers and RIAs become more alike? (19:28) Louis and Josh discuss the growing convergence between the two models and why the distinction is becoming less obvious than many advisors assume. What really separates an IBD from an RIA? (25:04) A practical discussion of autonomy, compliance, flexibility, custody, economics, and advisor experience. What misconceptions keep advisors from launching an RIA? (36:29) Josh outlines the “Four Pillars” of launching an RIA and explains where advisors tend to either overestimate or underestimate the operational realities. Which advisors thrive most in each model? (33:12) The conversation explores why there isn't a universally “better” model—only one that's better aligned with an advisor's goals. What trends are quietly reshaping independence? (42:13) Minority investments, enterprise value, business formation, and changing revenue models may have an even greater impact than advisors realize today. Key Takeaways Independence has evolved from a destination into an ongoing strategic decision. Independent broker dealers have significantly improved technology, transition support, economics, and flexibility. The RIA ecosystem has matured into a highly sophisticated marketplace with broad outsourcing and support options. Choosing between an IBD and an RIA should begin with long-term business objectives—not industry perceptions. Building a valuable business depends more on business structure and scalability than simply growing assets. Advisors considering independence should evaluate models with an open mind rather than relying on outdated assumptions. The next decade will likely bring continued convergence between independent business models. https://youtu.be/jHDVso2TsmQ Quotable Moments “The question is no longer, ‘Do I want to go independent?' The question is, ‘What kind of independence makes the most sense for my clients, business, and goals?'” “Business formation is far more important than assets under management.” “The way you build your business will ultimately determine how valuable that business becomes.” “Everything in an RIA is going to cost you either your time or your money.” FAQs Is there still a meaningful difference between an IBD and an RIA? Yes. While the two models increasingly overlap, they differ in areas such as flexibility, compliance structure, operational responsibility, economics, and control. Why are more independent advisors changing firms today? Improved technology, stronger transition support, evolving economics, and better service models are prompting many advisors to reassess whether their current platform still fits their business. Is launching an RIA easier than it used to be? Yes. Supportive independence, outsourced service providers, and improved custodial resources have significantly reduced many of the historical barriers. Does every entrepreneurial advisor belong in the RIA model? No. The best fit depends on an advisor's appetite for ownership, customization, operational responsibility, and long-term vision. What matters more: assets under management or how the business is built? Josh argues that scalable business formation often has a greater impact on enterprise value than AUM alone. What's the biggest mistake advisors make when evaluating independence? Starting with assumptions instead of objectives. The most effective due diligence begins by defining the business you're trying to build, then identifying the model best suited to support it. Yes. While the two models increasingly overlap, they differ in areas such as flexibility, compliance structure, operational responsibility, economics, and control. Improved technology, stronger transition support, evolving economics, and better service models are prompting many advisors to reassess whether their current platform still fits their business. Yes. Supportive independence, outsourced service providers, and improved custodial resources have significantly reduced many of the historical barriers. No. The best fit depends on an advisor's appetite for ownership, customization, operational responsibility, and long-term vision. Josh argues that scalable business formation often has a greater impact on enterprise value than AUM alone. Starting with assumptions instead of objectives. The most effective due diligence begins by defining the business you're trying to build, then identifying the model best suited to support it. Related Resources IBD vs. RIA Comparison Guide IBD vs. RIA Revisited: Two Independent Pathways for Advisors to Consider NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. View the transcript of this episode… IBD vs. RIA: A Special Industry Update on Independence A conversation with Louis Diamond and Josh Tomolak, Vice President of Independent Advisor Services at Diamond Consultants.      Louis Diamond: Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast series for financial advisors. Today’s episode is IBD vs. RIA: A Special Industry Update on Independence. It’s a conversation with Josh Tomolak, our Vice President of Independent Advisor Services. I’m Louis Diamond, and this is the Diamond Podcast for Financial Advisors. Mindy Diamond: At Diamond Consultants, we help elite advisors identify the right environment for their businesses to thrive, whether that’s at a wirehouse, boutique, or independent firm. With nearly three decades of experience, we’ve guided thousands of advisors and represented more than a quarter of a trillion dollars in assets transitioned. And each year, one in four advisors managing a billion dollars or more who change firms are our clients. Our process is education driven and based on building relationships, starting as your strategic partner well before you’re even thinking of a move. To schedule a confidential conversation, call us at (908) 879-1002. Wondering why advisors change firms and where they’re headed? Are transition deals going up or down? Those very questions and more inspired us to create our annual advisor transition report. It’s the award-winning data-driven resource designed for advisors that connects the dots between the motivations around movement and the firm’s appetite for top talent. Arm yourself with the knowledge you need to make smart decisions. Download your copy at diamond-consultants.com/transitionreport. Louis Diamond: For a long time, going independent would suggest the destination. Today, it’s often the beginning of a different conversation. As the independent space has matured, advisors have more choices than ever before. Broker-dealers have expanded their capabilities. The RIA ecosystem has become increasingly sophisticated. Capital is more readily available and support models now exist that would’ve been difficult to imagine a decade ago. The result is that many advisors who are already independent are taking a fresh look at whether their current affiliation still aligns with what they’re trying to build. My guest is Josh Tomolak, Vice President of Independent Advisor Services here at Diamond Consultants and our resident expert on independence. Josh spends his days helping advisors evaluate independence in all its forms from independent broker dealers, the fully independent RIAs and everything in between. And his knowledge is critical because the distinction between these models is often blurred. Many broker dealers now offer pathways to greater autonomy while supported independence has made RIA ownership more accessible than ever before. So the question is no longer simply, “Do I want to go independent?” The question is, “What kind of independence makes the most sense for client, business, and goals?” Josh shares what he’s seeing across the landscape, the misconceptions that continue to shape advisor thinking and the factors that matter most when evaluating the next chapter of an independent business. There’s a lot to discuss, so let’s get to it. Josh, thanks for joining me today. Joshua Tomolak: Thanks for having me, Louis. It’s a real privilege to have come. This is a full circle moment for me going from being a student of your podcast, to working alongside you, to being a guest. So I appreciate you having me. Louis Diamond: Amazing. I’m excited for this one too, because you have a fresh and in the weeds perspective that a lot of our guests simply don’t have. So why don’t you start off, you spend your time helping advisors evaluate independence every day. So working with advisors who are already independent, for the most part. And to me, it feels like the independent space has really evolved dramatically over the last decade. I mean, this podcast is really the epicenter of that to prove that out, but give us a little background on your past roles in the space and then we can get into what you’re seeing right now. Joshua Tomolak: Yeah, I’d be happy to. So I took a very non-traditional path into wealth management. I spent a decade as a deep sea Navy diver, and upon completing my service there, I ended up working for TD Ameritrade. And in my role there, I spent about six years doing nothing but helping financial advisors explore the RIA space, whether that was to join or partner with an RIA, sell to an RIA, or in most cases, launch their own RIA. And one of the things that I ultimately came to terms with is it’s just not the right model for everybody. While I’m a huge advocate for it, we would often lose business to the major broker-dealers of the world. And at the time, I really didn’t understand why. In the last six years at Diamond Consultants has been a very interesting purview into what a lot of the broker-dealers have done and are doing to make themselves more RIA-ish and be very compelling to the right advisor. Louis Diamond: Perfect framing. Your background is incredibly germane to the folks you work with. So let’s start off with the softball here. What are you seeing right now? Joshua Tomolak: It’s not so different than the rest of the industry, the wirehouses, the regional firms, things of that nature, that if you took 10 firms, they’re all likely to go different directions, even if they were identical practices. That could be… A third would go from an independent broker-dealer to another independent broker-dealer. Certainly the supported RIA space is growing every day and has created a lot of very fun and unique solutions for advisors, very customized and curated. And then I think there’s still a lot of really great sophisticated teams and individual contributors that are making the decision to go hyper entrepreneurial and launch their own individual RIA. So the movement’s really all over the board from my perspective. Louis Diamond: It does feel like it’s no longer independence is an alternative option or it’s on the fringes. It’s very front and center whether for breakaways, which is a big topic on our podcast, but in general, the infrastructure has become much, much more sophisticated today than ever before. Advisors have way more tools in their toolbox to serve clients, whether in the private markets or through technology. And it’s no longer that if an advisor’s independent, they’re in the minor leagues where they don’t have the same ability to serve clients like they did if they’re at a big bank or a private bank or a wirehouse. Do you agree? Joshua Tomolak: I absolutely agree. And I’m reminded of a question I got one time from a great team that I worked with in New York. They asked me, “Are there really more options than ever before? Because all we see is one firm selling to another.” And I think that’s a really great point. There’s far less broker dealers on the street than there were even five years ago. But for every Commonwealth, for example, that sells to an LPL, up pops three or four really cool private equity-backed, sophisticated RIA platform firms that are built to service their own unique advisor base. Louis Diamond: I think that’s right. Sitting on the sidelines, sitting on top of everything going on in the industry, I feel like capital is always an interesting topic forever. If an advisor wanted to move within the independent world or break away from a big firm to go independent, the only way to get capital was to go to an independent broker dealer. So we still see that, but I feel like today between all these minority acquisition opportunities, we’re seeing firms acquire practices at time of transition, which is somewhat new. There’s debt solutions, recruiting deals are way up for firms that are paying forgivable loans. RIAs now would, in some cases, will pay a forgivable note. What are you seeing there as far as the availability of capital and just deals in general? Joshua Tomolak: It’s a great question and I didn’t want to take the low-hanging fruit, but capital’s been a huge innovation, I guess, in the last five years I’d say. Just to give you rough quotes, please don’t hold me to it, but traditional transition broker-dealer deals were five years ago, 40 to 60% of Trailing Twelve revenue today are somewhere between 90 and 120%, sometimes north of that for the right team. That’s really meaningful money for the team that is thinking about foregoing a wirehouse deal, for example. I’d also say a lot of these firms are getting hyper-creative in how they solve for capital. The minority investment piece that you mentioned is very interesting. We’re seeing a lot of privatized forgivable notes in the RIA space where third-party or private lenders are basically lending the money and the RIA is making the payments on that forgivable note as long as the advisor is affiliated with them. So there’s been a recognition among the RIA space to get away from the, “Oh, they just took a check” type of mantra, and to say, “Look, I understand there are capital needs. These people are taking a risk. We need to solve for that.” So we’ve seen a lot of that in the marketplace. Louis Diamond: Very interesting. I think another thing financially, and then we’ll keep the train moving, that I know I’ve seen, and maybe you can weigh in if you’ve seen the same, is the cost to an advisor or a business owner to join an independent BD or to join an RIA has come way down, probably in part because of Schwab going to zero on trading. That’s been a catalyst. But it feels like we used to say independent BDs were expensive relative to the RIA world. And in some cases, they certainly could be. And if you’re at scale, maybe you can pick up a point or two being in the RIA world versus a BD. But when you have some of these BDs that have a basis point admin fee or no admin fee at a certain size and the payouts I feel like are similar, maybe have gone up a little bit, but it’s more so like the administrator fees, the platform fees, the program fees. Anyone who’s not in that world, it’s like, “What are you talking about?” But basically the way that these broker-dealers make money, it seems like there’s been a pretty big differential in the exchange of value where advisors now get more services, better technology, get more money to join them and get it at a lower cost. Do you agree? Joshua Tomolak: I absolutely agree. I think that maybe that’s one of the larger changes that we’ve seen, and it’s probably one of the benefits from a lot of the industry consolidation on that independent broker-dealer side. The economies of scale of these folks have allowed them to increase their tech spend, increase their service capacities all while offering it to the advisors at a cheaper price. And when I was at TD Ameritrade, one of the biggest pitches was the idea of a 100% payout and you control the fixed expenses, your technology compliance, et cetera. But what’s changed is that broker-dealers are pretty darn comparable on the expenses. All of those admin fees and things you mentioned will still exist, but they’re on a much smaller scale. And I think the question a lot of advisors are asking is, “Am I getting congruent value from my broker-dealer for what I pay for?” And while that answer might’ve been no a couple years ago, today the answer is more often yes. Louis Diamond: Yeah, I would agree. A lot of times we work with advisors who are starting an RIA or affiliating with an RIA or going to a BD and they see how big the deals are in the independent BD world and the payouts are really high and the fees are relatively low. And honestly, it is a hard decision or calculus to make, like, “How does it make sense for me to turn down this extremely lucrative deal when my ongoing economics are going to be somewhat similar in the BD world versus in the RIA space?” I think it’s just an interesting dynamic and we’ll get more into that distinction. One of the stars of the show right here is we’ve seen a ton of advisor movement across the industry. Our annual advisor transition report said that in 2025, over 11,000 experienced advisors changed firms, which is a large number. A lot of those numbers are within the independent world. So advisors who are 1099 through a BD or through an RIA transitioning to another platform or organization or starting an RIA. So why do you think we’re seeing so many advisors reconsider their current firm or their platform or their broker-dealer today than in years past? Joshua Tomolak: It’s a jarring number. 11,000 is definitely a significant amount of advisor movements. To me, it comes down to a few things, but I will say that it’s almost always a conglomeration of pushes and pulls. Pushes being inherent frustrations with your status quo, pulls being the new sexy, shiny things that you see in the marketplace that could be really impactful for your business. To me, it typically comes down to one of three things, at least on the push front, that drives advisors to movement. Service being number one, technology being number two, and economics being number three. And if we were just going to unpack those, I think service being, “Can you call somebody that knows your business, that knows your name? Are you getting the correct answers? Are you being pushed through a phone tree? And even if you’re not doing it, is it taking up a meaningful amount of time of your staff’s free time?” On the technology front, there’s very significant tech spends happening in the industry right now. I think Raymond James and LPL reported, for example, they spent 500 million in 2025 on a tech spend. So advisors are going to the places that are making their life easier. People are looking for a mechanism to really scale their business without having to add staff and a lot of expenses to the bottom line. And technology is just the fastest, most efficient way to do that most times. And then economics, certainly a lot of advisors and teams have built phenomenal businesses and they’ve made a great living without really stressing out about the economics. And they eventually get to a point in their business where what they were giving up as a million dollar producer is far different than what they’re giving up as a $4 million producer. And back to the congruent value, it perhaps stops to make as much sense. Louis Diamond: Well said. I always say when the cost-to-value ratio is out of whack, that’s when advisors sit up and take notice. And not to name names of firms, but there definitely are firms that are more expensive. And even if you look at how much a wirehouse or a Ed Jones advisor paid their firm, it’s like, “What got me here is not necessarily what’s going to get me there.” And while the name on the business card, the resources were incredibly impactful, and I’m so grateful for what my firm, my broker-dealer did for me when I was just starting or when I was smaller. Now the business is bigger, I rely upon different resources or I don’t need the firm as much. So I’d rather plow the cost savings either into income for myself or invest it in areas that are most germane to my business. And it’s usually when that kind of light bulb moment goes off, that’s one of the major pushes that cause advisors to evaluate other options. So I agree with you, those are the major push factors, but then what are the pull factors? What are the major advancements or changes across the independent space that’s causing advisors to say, “Hey, okay, I might have some frustrations, but at the same time, I also need to find something that’s more than marginally better than the firm I’m at. Otherwise, why am I going to go through the hassle, take the risk, et cetera? So what are some of the pull factors that advisors are latching onto today? Joshua Tomolak: Sure. And I might say with one final push factor, there’s a straw that breaks the proverbial camel’s back when you’ve been told for however many years that this change or that change is coming down the pipeline and it never happens. And it translates well into the pull factors is do they do what they say they’re going to do? The talking points really for the pull factors are exactly the same. So the counterpoint to service is perhaps having a direct relationship with the chief compliance officer at a firm or having a dedicated service representative that knows their stuff inside and out and can get you the answer even if they don’t know it off the top of their head. Having the technology to rebalance a household in two clicks instead of two hours. In economics, I think it’s really a transparency of economics. We’ve both worked with some really significant firms that have looked at their P&Ls and said, “where the heck is the money going?” And we’ve looked at the same P&Ls and said, “I have no idea,” because it’s so convoluted. People are happy to pay for good service, good technology, good products, but they just want to know where the money’s coming from. So I think it’s a yin and yang. The same things that they’re the push are often the pull. Louis Diamond: Definitely. I’ll give you a couple other from my perspective. I’ll say first specific to the independent BD world, and then we’ll dive into the RIA, I think it’s a little bit different. But I think some other will say innovations or changes that are causing advisors to really perk up and listen and really make the case to themselves that life will be better at this new organization than the status quo or staying put. We’ve seen major advancements in transition support, whether it’s being able to do a transition without a shred of paper, being able to… I mean, we’ve seen some independent advisors move their entire book within two weeks, which never would’ve happened before. So the firms that I’d say are playing offense, the larger firms that are winning, they have insane headcount around transitions and are always investing in technology, whether now on the AI front or in general. And we’ve seen transitions, they’re never easy. So that’s not a comment to say it’s easy, but a lot of the friction, a lot of the manual work has been taken away, which is massive. You definitely mentioned the significant technology spend. I mean, just the innovations going on across the industry. There’s definitely some firms that are laggards on technology and others that are light years ahead, whether because their tech is more integrated or they’ve built out their platform to be more, we’ll say modular, to plug in different third-party softwares where an advisor can really customize and create their own tech stack. I think there’s been some changes on compliance. It used to be if you’re at an independent BD, you had to be the OSJ by yourself or you had to roll up under an OSJ. But now most BDs offer home office supervision, so a big friction or pain point is taken away. And then I’ll give you a bridge to talk about what we’re seeing on the RIA side. But we’ve also seen, I would say, a real blurring of the lines between what you would traditionally think of as an independent broker dealer versus what was an RIA. So whether it’s an internal pathway where it’s like, “Start off on our independent BD platform, get the big deal, get the support, but then you can ditch that and just use this as a custodian or you can sell the business to us when you want to retire and convert to W2.” So in that vein, transitioning internally to an RIA, give me the same points like, “What are the major advancements or changes you’re seeing on the RIA side today?” Joshua Tomolak: I love that you said that because it’s been one of the most interesting changes to watch. Independent broker dealers becoming more like RIAs, and to your point, being more flexible, having more optionality, a more curated experience in some cases. And in many cases becoming closer to independent broker dealers with some of these massive shops that we’ve seen be created over the last five years that now have hundreds, if not thousands of advisors. To your question on the internal RIA slide as we sometimes call it, this really didn’t exist many places a few years ago. And I think it’s been created as both originally a retention tool in many places for the advisors that were with a major independent broker dealer and they ultimately wanted to have their own ADV and their own RIA. And the firm didn’t want to lose all the assets to an independent custodian so they gave them the green light to… And it’s ultimately became a sales tool in many cases. Just to use a couple of examples across the industry, I mean, Raymond James has Raymond James Custody Services, which has attracted a lot of really sophisticated teams. I know Wells Fargo Finance done something similar and even the counterparts over at Cetera and Osaic are trying to do the same thing. So it’s a recognition in my view that we want to keep the best talent possible. And if these folks are ultimately going to go RIA anyway, it’s less about the money and more about the flexibility and control that it offers them. So what can we do to keep those folks on board? And rightfully so, a lot of senior management of these firms have said, “Let’s not lose these teams. It’s going to be a lower margin business for us, but at the rate that they’re growing, it’s going to pay off in the long run.” Louis Diamond: Well said. RIAs are now more mainstream. And some of these RIAs, they’re either resembling independent BDs or I would even go so far to say the valuations that are even publicly available on some RIAs is definitely having people take notice. I mean, Cerity Partners recently raised capital at an over $8 billion reported valuation. Crescent was well over a billion. Firms like Mariner, Creative Planning, Mercer, Wealth Enhancement Group, and there’s many that I’m missing, are all worth a couple billion dollars or more and growing. Do you think that’s had an impact on the legitimacy or the staying power of the RIA model? Joshua Tomolak: Oh, absolutely. There’s no doubt about it. I mean, those groups that you mentioned and many more are winning some of the biggest teams on the street. I mean, if you pull up a run-of-the-mill advisor hub article, for example, you’ll see as many of those RIAs win significant businesses as you will their broker-dealer counterparts, partially in my opinion, due to the massive valuations these firms are fetching. And it’s much more of a partnership in the sense that joining a Crescent or a Wealth Enhancement Group, as you mentioned, you’re a part of a boutique group of maybe a couple of hundred very sophisticated high-producing advisors all playing under the same banner, all rowing in the same direction, and that creates substantial growth. Louis Diamond: Exactly right. I think two other things to me that’s driving the legitimacy or the growth of the RIA segment, there’s so many different outsourcing solutions that have popped up, whether it’s more of a… We’ll say a bundled or a package outsourcing solution through firms like Dynasty and Sanctuary. LPL has done a ton with having a shared services outsourcing model. So you have those. But you also have, I mean, probably 10 different firms I could think of that can be an outsourced chief compliance officer. You have tons of marketing agencies that specialize in helping RIAs. You have all these FinTechs popping up to support the RIA space. Really, it’s like anything and everything can be outsourced now. And even the big Wall Street banks like UBS, Merrill, et cetera, they’re attempting to sell and distribute product into the RIA space. Venture funds, private equity funds, anyone you talk to is trying to get a piece of the RIA space, which means there’s more product and platform availability than ever before. And I think it’s massive because one, it’s a catalyst for teams who say, “I love everything about the RIA world. I just don’t want to do it on my own,” or, “I don’t know where to start.” But also it means that they can look their clients in the eye and say, “Hey, not only do I have the same stuff that I had for you at XYZ firm, I can actually do more for you.” And even if you look at what the custodians are doing on the lending side now, Schwab owning a bank is massive and being able to facilitate mortgages, securities-backed loans, things that didn’t really exist in the past. I think it’s a very exciting time for advisors either that are independent or are considering the independent space because you have all these choices and it’s really like, “Choose your own adventure. Give me your top five things you want.” I’m sure it exists and we can find it and make it happen. And I don’t think we’d have the same confidence in that statement 5, 7, 10 years ago. Joshua Tomolak: I couldn’t agree more. That’s such a huge development is the marketplace of third party vendors in any kind of capitalism environment. There’s problems that people encounter and there’s really smart people that are trying to make a lot of money that go to market to solve them. And we’ve seen a ton of that over the last few years. Louis Diamond: Exactly right. Yeah, it’s like also… If an advisor looks around and says, “Hey, this is what I want,” and it doesn’t exist, oftentimes that’s a light bulb moment to be like, “Okay, I’ll go build it. I’ll do it on my own.” Whether it was Stewart Partners when they launched a number of years ago or Hightower, Dynasty, et cetera. They were all started by people that said, “Hey, I see a big gap in the ecosystem. Let’s create a business and raise capital to go solve it and then deliver this service to other like-minded advisors or business owners.” Honestly, it’s a treat to be able to watch all this happen in real time. We probably should have laid the groundwork with this next question, but I think it’s an important one. What’s the difference between a independent broker-dealer and an RIA? Really basic foundational. It sounds like the lines are blurred. There’s probably a lot of similarities. Advisors are successful in both. It’s not like one’s better than the other. How would you explain the differences, if a client of ours asked, “What’s the difference between an independent broker-dealer and IBD versus an RIA”? Joshua Tomolak: Get into the core of it. Again, the lines are blurred, and I’ll stay very high level on the strategic differences, but I like to use this example. I drive a Toyota Tundra. Really like the truck, gets me from A to B. Now, if I were getting to a point where I wanted a new vehicle, if I were to go get another Toyota Tundra because I really like a lot of aspects of it, but I want the one with the bigger screen and the bigger tires and the power seats, and I have rolled down windows because I have a fear of drowning. But if I want a lot of the bells and whistles, but I want to keep the foundation, that’s what I align to a independent broker-dealer to independent broker-dealer. You like the foundation of everything all under one roof. You like a lot of the resources, but you have some meaningful frustrations and you want to see if another provider in the market can solve for those or you can upgrade. If I instead, Louis, decided that I wanted a sports car or a Jeep Wrangler or something, I would be looking at a different category altogether. That’s how I articulate the platform space. They provide the same services and support in many cases that an independent broker-dealer does, think of marketing and a tech stack and regulatory oversight and a fellowship in a community, but they’re built on an RIA TC registered chassis. They’re typically far more customized so you can shop the street to get a lot more of the things that you like, though you are walking away from maybe some of the things that you’ve liked in the independent broker-dealer model. So I guess that’s the highest level I might explain it, just a little bit more minutia in any broker-dealer is going to be a FINRA registered, FINRA member broker-dealer. So they’re subject to the FINRA rules, which basically means it’s the compliance interpretation of those rules that they have to follow. So LPL’s rules may be slightly different than Cetera’s than Ameriprise’s because it’s based on their interpretations of the rules. In the RIA space, everybody really operates on the fiduciary standard. So it’s just a different lens that from a compliance standpoint, business is looked at. And a lot of people would make the argument that it’s just easier to get things done when you’re looking at something from that lens. I might’ve gone too compliance nerd on you there, but I’d be curious what you think some of the major differences are. Louis Diamond: Yeah, I think that’s right. I mean, it sounds like if you’re in the RIA world in some capacity that you as the advisor or business owner are going to have a little bit more control and autonomy and flexibility. One, do you think that’s true? And what are the reasons why that is? Is it platform? Is it strictly just compliance is easier? What are the different ways that an RIA would have more or less flexibility than someone who’s with an independent BD? Joshua Tomolak: Yeah, I think it’s overwhelmingly true, but it certainly depends on your business. Within most RIA platforms, you’re going to be one of a couple dozen, maybe a couple hundred, where you’re going to have people within that firm that really know your business. So the experience in getting things done is much less about, “Can I do this,” or, “Can I not do this?” And it’s, “Louis, I understand you asked for this. We’re going to run into these issues, but let’s figure out how to get to yes.” So it’s far more curated by people that are not operating on black and white rules and can actually figure out how to get to yes for your business. The other thing I would say is that most significant RIA platforms have multiple custodial options. So many times you’ll see as few as two or as many as five. So if an advisor or a team is trying to bring on a new piece of business or do something creative, that might be something they can use a different custodial relationship to accomplish. It might be something that Goldman Sachs does really well but is in its infancy at Fidelity, or it might be international business that’s approved on Pershing’s platform but not Schwab’s platform. So the RIA partner that you’re with can really look at those custodians agnostically and say, “What’s the best home for this business? What’s the best way to get this done for Louis?” There’s a couple examples of where I see the flexibility in practice. Louis Diamond: Yeah, I think one more too would be the concept of being able to shop the street. I’ve heard it described as becoming a buy-side advocate for your clients versus being a professional seller. So meaning, if I’m affiliated with an RIA or I’m operating my own RIA, there’s no selling away like there is at a wirehouse or at certain BDs. So if I have a client who’s trying to get a $10 million loan for a new building that they’re breaking ground on, if I’m at UBS, Merrill, Morgan Stanley, captive to a BD, I can go to my firm and say, “Hey, this $10 million loan, here it is. What are the terms? What are the rates? Will you take on this business?” And the firm will say, “Yes. No. Yes, here are the terms. Here’s the caveats, et cetera.” But it’s a very closed market process and an advisor has to live and die by what their firm says. Versus in the RIA world, it’s, “Okay, I have relationships with nine different banks and I can go to these different banks and private credit funds and whoever and really create either an option process for my client or really just help them in a fully agnostic open way.” And we see the same thing when it comes to alternative investments. No one at a wirehouse, let’s say, is complaining that they don’t have enough alts that they can offer clients. Those firms have done an amazing job with really boiling the ocean and having tons and tons of options for private investments, hedge funds, et cetera. But if you’re in the RIA world, you can take it to the next level and say, “Hey, this $3 million startup company that my friend is starting, I’m going to help them raise capital,” or, “My client wants to get a syndicate of investors together to have a direct investment into a qualified opportunity zone fund that they’re starting. Let’s do it when we can advise on it.” So it really expands what an advisor is able to do on behalf of clients. Like to me, that’s the most interesting or exciting part of the RIA model. You can get some of that within the BD world, but to me, when an advisor’s business becomes more sophisticated as far as what their end client’s needs are, it tends to translate better to the RIA world than the BD world. Not to say there aren’t ultra-high net worth focused advisors at BDs, but because of that additional flexibility, autonomy, customization, et cetera, that speaks more RIA. So again, absolutely not down at all on the independent BDs because I think there’s a massive home for them. Josh, let me turn it back to you. I’m rambling now. Give me the pitch for an independent BD. What are the things that are misperceptions that people have? What are the advantages that an independent broker dealer like an LPL or a RayJ or a Cetera have over RIAs or over other models in general? Joshua Tomolak: Absolutely. And I’d say I’ve learned more over the last six years from some of your ramblings than most people learn in an MBA course, so keep doing what you’re doing. But it’s funny being in this position now, having spent so much time sort of selling against the IBD model within TD Ameritrade, but what I’ve learned is it’s a good home for everybody. And a lot of times the advisors that they’re entrepreneurial enough where they like having their name on the door, but they’re not so entrepreneurial where they want to build everything out themselves, that’s where the independent broker dealers absolutely kill it. Their economics have gotten to a point where they’re really competitive. They offer transition capital that isn’t even going to be comparable in the RIA space unless you’re selling a minority share of your business. And you mentioned LPL, or we could really list all of the major ones, there’s not a department that they don’t have. It could be as nuance as finding 403(b) payroll slots or it could be as mainstream as fixed income or setting up events. There are all kinds of really neat departments that these all under one roof independent broker dealers have invested in. And a lot of times they make an effort to make you very much aware of all of the support because most people don’t use it. So I would say for the advisors that are looking to get their improved Toyota Tundra, then you can get probably 70 or 80% of what you want within the independent broker-dealer world. And you can also keep 20 or 30% of the stuff, maybe more that you really liked at your previous firm. So I think that’s where it really shines. I sometimes call it an incremental change rather than a transformational change. But for many advisors, incremental is really good enough if you get to keep the familiarity of how you’ve been doing business for the last 20-some years, but you’re able to get net improvement on the things that were really bothering you. Louis Diamond: Well said. Something that I’ve seen that’s been… I guess this could be either pro or con depending upon the advisor, but with some broker dealers, letting an advisor co-brand with them or really having a real consumer-facing brand, whether it’s, “I’m a franchise owner with Ameriprise,” or, “I’m independent through Raymond James,” or, “Running my own practice through Wells Fargo FiNet,” or, “I’m independent with Northwestern Mutual.” There’s definitely some brand cache or brand familiarity with some of those firms that may or may not be the same if you’re in the RIA world. So I would agree there’s a lot to like about the independent BD world and there’s a fit for people that is absolutely better with independent BDs than on the RIA side. Even if some people would say RIA is better, we’re cleaner, I wouldn’t say that. To me, it’s all about what an advisor’s goals are and then matching that up with what these firms do. And there’s never a perfect option. I jokingly say, “If there was a perfect firm, we wouldn’t be in business.” Every firm has their advantages or disadvantages. And depending upon where an advisor’s coming from, their style of business, their pain points, that’ll match up really well with on firm or one type of firm or one model than the other. Let’s pivot a little bit to the RIA world. A lot of your comments have been more about advisors affiliating or joining RIAs, this whole supportive version of independence concept. But what about advisors who want to go and start their own RIA? Either they’re leaving a captive firm and taking the entrepreneurial route and starting their own firm, or they’re leaving an independent BD to go start their own RIA. What do you see as some of the biggest misconceptions that advisors have about that move? Joshua Tomolak: That’s probably my favorite topic because there are the most misconceptions I think in this space. Louis Diamond: I’d agree. Joshua Tomolak: And I would say there’s 9 out of 10 conversations that I have with advisors and teams, they start off with the launching an RIA in mind or at least RIA curious and they want to understand what’s out there. And probably less than half the time do these folks end up actually launching their own RIA, which is okay because the ones that do are massively successful and they know they’re dang sure that’s exactly what they want to do. I think it gets a little bit romanticized sometimes that they’ll say, “Oh, I’ll just give Schwab a call,” or, “I’ll just give the custodian a call,” as if they were shopping independent broker dealers. That’s fine. You can do that and they will help you, but there’s quite a bit more to think about. And it’s not, in my opinion, the same as evaluating independent broker dealers. If it’s all right, I was taught the four pillars of the RIA model. I can go through that with you really quickly. So the way to think about the RIA space is in four pieces. And shout out to a friend, Eli Suarez, that taught me this years ago. The first pillar… Thinking of four pillars on a bar stool, if you will. The first one being administration. And this is your compliance, this is setting up your ADV, your LLC, all of your business formation documents. The second piece being technology, what do you actually want to use? Because the benefits of the broker-dealer world and the supported independent world is they’ve already built it for you. They’ve already paid for it and scraped their knees building it. In this case, you have to. And for some people, that’s really exciting to source financial planning software and portfolio management software and your CRM and tax software, et cetera. For some people, it just sounds like a huge headache. The third pillar being custodians. I have them third because you want to make sure that the right custodian can integrate properly with the technology that you’ve sourced that you’re passionate about. And then ultimately transition. What does a transition really look like? What are my legal and regulatory requirements? How does this work? What are the timelines? Things of that nature. So I guess I would say in closing that if those four things are things that you really want to own, then you’re in a really good position to consider an RIA launch. What do you think, Louis? Louis Diamond: I think that’s a great framework to break it down. Not just be like, “Okay, I can tolerate that,” or, “My team can do it,” but I think you have to be pretty excited about rolling up your sleeves and customizing and doing it yourself because in our experience, there’s a nominal differential between the economics of running your own RIA versus affiliating with an RIA or going to an independent BD. All the extra work and responsibility, you’re not really going to make it up, at least on the front end, on a higher net payout. So it has to be more about what the model means to you and having a vision that you don’t think anyone else can accomplish other than yourself. And looking at that crazy ever-expanding Michael Kitces’ FinTech map and there’s 500 different logos on it and being like, “Yes, that’s what I want. I want to go through this. I want to pick the seven pieces of my tech stack that work for me,” rather than getting, “Here’s the tech stack, take a demo, you like it, you don’t like it, take it or leave it.” To me, the two biggest misconceptions people have about the RIA world is one, “I’m going to have to be a full-time chief compliance officer,” and just that compliance is this boogeyman, this terrible, scary thing. In some ways it is. But the reality is most, especially startup RIAs will fully outsource compliance to a firm or they’ll hire a compliance consultant or firms that are big enough even will hire a CCO or repurpose someone on their team to be CCO. But compliance is much more streamlined and simpler than BD compliance. And ultimately, it’s compliance that’s being built for your business rather than compliance that’s being built for a publicly traded multinational company that supports 20,000 financial advisors. So I think compliance is always a big misconception. It’s definitely what a lot of firms will pry upon when they’re saying like, “Oh, you’re going to own all the legal and regulatory requirements. You could, but it’s definitely not a requirement.” And then I think another one is folks sometimes underestimate and overestimate the operational burden and how much work it is to start an RIA. Sometimes people just… They’re perfect for the RIA world, that’s their goal, but they get stopped in their tracks. They don’t really know what to do. But what we’ve seen, we said it earlier with so many different outsourcing solutions and different service providers that have popped up, if you have the fire in your belly to go build something, it doesn’t mean you’re doing it by yourself. I mean, that’s what firms like ours do. The custodians are very helpful. On the flip side though, I have seen advisors chasing payouts say, “Hey, I’m just going to go start an RIA because I want to make another 1 to 3%,” or whatever it comes to and they drastically underestimate what it really takes to build a successful firm. Joshua Tomolak: Exactly right. I think that’s my favorite one, Louis, overestimating and estimating the operational burden there is you could have the same conversation with two teams and it can go the completely different direction. Louis Diamond: Josh, let’s wrap here. I got one more question for you that I think is an exciting one, but give me three key trends or storylines that most people don’t know about or aren’t talking about that you’re passionate about or that you’re sharing with advisors or counseling today. Joshua Tomolak: Sure. This is the free advice portion. And I’ll tell you what, Louis, if it’s all right with you, I’ll give you two and I would love to hear one from you as well. The first one I’ve seen in both the independent broker-dealer and RIA space is the minority investor concept. A lot of folks will talk about the idea of taking chips off a table and starting to partially monetize your business. I think that’s all important, but what I’ve found is that a lot of advisors really want their partner, whether it’s an RIA broker dealer to help them grow. And that could be with M&A opportunities, that could be with traditional recruitment of advisors, that could be building a business plan. But the minority investment part really helps accelerate that for a lot of businesses because all of a sudden, not only are you cashing out a small part of your business, but you’ve just created an ally with the parent entity, it is now much more likely to help you grow in that capacity because they’re insulated from it and they profit when you profit. So I think it’s easy to be shortsighted and say, “Well, my equity’s going to keep growing. Why would I sell you a piece of this?” But I counsel folks often to really think about what that long-term strategic partnership is and making somebody a real equity partner rather than just a vendor that provides you with technology and regulatory coverage. The other one I’d say is that… And this one’s really important to me, that business formation is far more important than your assets under management. Said a different way, the way you build your business is going to make your business far more valuable than the number of dollars underneath your name. And what I mean by that is, just to use an example, a sophisticated, well-built, centralized, scalable and repeatable business, whether it’s an RIA with a broker-dealer that is going to fetch a far higher M&A multiple than a OSJ that’s five times the size that just has a bunch of 1099 independent advisors underneath the umbrella. What we’ve seen in the M&A space is that if you’re going to shell out 50, 60, $80 million for somebody’s business, you want to know that you have this business for the long term. So I would certainly counsel people that have been around maybe far longer than me to take a look at how you’re building this and put together a business plan on what those next 10 years should look like and not necessarily fall into the trap where your only revenue source is the override that you receive from a firm and then you in turn pay to the advisors on your team. Louis Diamond: Well said. I really like that line. We’d probably do a whole episode on what are the tips and tricks for building a business with the end in mind? Like the Covey quote, “Begin with the end in mind.” Transitions are like… They’re a bear. I mean, there’s no way to sugarcoat it. Advisors, when they hear transition, if you ask them, “Don’t think about it, give me your reaction.” “Terrible, risky, a lot of work. I’ll never do it again. My friend did it and it was terrible. What if my clients don’t come?” It’s all these negative emotions. And in many cases, I don’t blame an advisor because it is a big act. But to me, if someone is weighing making a transition, whether a wholesale business model change going from being an employee to being independent, going from being an advisor at an independent BD to starting an RIA, or even going independent BD to independent BD, it’s an opportunity if you rise to the occasion to build with this next act with intentionality. So whether it’s restructuring compensation for your team, converting people from 1099 to W2, putting in place new workflows, changing how investments, instead of it being each individual advisor doing investments to more of a centralized model, cleaning up workflows, really investing in data, investing in AI. It’s something that I think, again, we can have a whole episode on it, but I think it’s a great one. Build the business the right way. And obviously, businesses that are larger, theoretically, sell for more, but we’ve certainly seen businesses that are half the size of a larger one sell for a similar amount or more because they did all the right things and the larger one did the things that really turn off a buyer or detract from a valuation. Let me give you one more and tell me if you agree, but I think we’re in this moment when Altruist, the upstart, a new kid on the block custodian, they launched a basically tokenization of cash in a way to automatically agentically source or sort cash to the highest yielding money market. And you’re like, “This is fricking wonky. Louis, why are you telling us this?” I think this is an important one just to keep a watchful eye on. I have no idea how this is going to shake out, but really the biggest way that independent BDs or even custodians like Schwab and Fidelity really make money, it’s not on their overrides from practices or the admin fee or the custody fee. It’s really on net interest margin. So how much the broker-dealer or the firm is making on client cash and brokerage accounts relative to what they’re paying out the client. It’s essentially like free margin to these firms. And this concept, I think, has massive potential for disruption for the business model. Again, I don’t know what it’s going to look like, whether it means platform fees that are instituted at all these firms, whether it means certain models would be more beneficial than others, whether it means nothing’s going to change, which is probably the right answer given this industry. But it’s something to keep a watchful eye on just if your firm institutes a new platform fee or there’s a fundamental way in which your firm can no longer make money. How are they going to make it up? Are they now going to be uncompetitive? They’re not going to have as much scale or profits to invest in the platform. Is it going to cause even more consolidation in the industry? So to me, that’s the one pretty under the radar, pretty wonky storyline that I don’t think enough people are talking about, but has the biggest possibility for disruption across their space than anything I’ve seen in a while. Joshua Tomolak: Sure. That’s the whole iceberg. Not a lot of people are talking about it. It’s not poking out of the ocean, but it’s going to be continuously brought up. I think it’s a question that a lot of advisors are going to have to ask these firms. And at the end of the day, the firms aren’t the bad guys. They have to make money too to provide a quality product. So where the money comes from matters. Louis Diamond: Exactly. Josh, this has been awesome. I learned a lot talking with you and just having your objective consulting hat on what I think are really the differences between IBD and RIA and some of the key trends and storylines to watch has been instrumental. I’ll also give a plug that on our website and we’ll link to it in the show notes, we have a really helpful one-page reference guide going through the differences between independent BDs or IBDs and RIAs. So feel free to click on it. We’ll make sure it gets in your inbox. Josh, thanks again for joining us today. Joshua Tomolak: Yeah, thanks for having me, Louis. It was a pleasure. Mindy Diamond: As a financial advisor, you hold yourself to the highest standards of integrity, honesty, and credibility. You are successful because you take your professional responsibilities seriously and are dedicated to your clients. But are you living your best business life? Are your goals aligned with your firms or could a better option exist? Should I stay or Should I Go? is a book written with you in mind. It’s a self-guided journey that walks you through the key steps that we take with our advisor clients. This strategic thought process and roadmap to professional self-discovery is designed to help you ask the right questions and think critically and objectively whether you’re considering change or not. Learn how to get your copy at diamond-consultants.com/thebook. IBD vs. RIA: A Special Industry Update on Independence A conversation with Louis Diamond and Josh Tomolak, Vice President of Independent Advisor Services at Diamond Consultants.      Louis Diamond: Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast series for financial advisors. Today’s episode is IBD vs. RIA: A Special Industry Update on Independence. It’s a conversation with Josh Tomolak, our Vice President of Independent Advisor Services. I’m Louis Diamond, and this is the Diamond Podcast for Financial Advisors. Mindy Diamond: At Diamond Consultants, we help elite advisors identify the right environment for their businesses to thrive, whether that’s at a wirehouse, boutique, or independent firm. With nearly three decades of experience, we’ve guided thousands of advisors and represented more than a quarter of a trillion dollars in assets transitioned. And each year, one in four advisors managing a billion dollars or more who change firms are our clients. Our process is education driven and based on building relationships, starting as your strategic partner well before you’re even thinking of a move. To schedule a confidential conversation, call us at (908) 879-1002. Wondering why advisors change firms and where they’re headed? Are transition deals going up or down? Those very questions and more inspired us to create our annual advisor transition report. It’s the award-winning data-driven resource designed for advisors that connects the dots between the motivations around movement and the firm’s appetite for top talent. Arm yourself with the knowledge you need to make smart decisions. Download your copy at diamond-consultants.com/transitionreport. Louis Diamond: For a long time, going independent would suggest the destination. Today, it’s often the beginning of a different conversation. As the independent space has matured, advisors have more choices than ever before. Broker-dealers have expanded their capabilities. The RIA ecosystem has become increasingly sophisticated. Capital is more readily available and support models now exist that would’ve been difficult to imagine a decade ago. The result is that many advisors who are already independent are taking a fresh look at whether their current affiliation still aligns with what they’re trying to build. My guest is Josh Tomolak, Vice President of Independent Advisor Services here at Diamond Consultants and our resident expert on independence. Josh spends his days helping advisors evaluate independence in all its forms from independent broker dealers, the fully independent RIAs and everything in between. And his knowledge is critical because the distinction between these models is often blurred. Many broker dealers now offer pathways to greater autonomy while supported independence has made RIA ownership more accessible than ever before. So the question is no longer simply, “Do I want to go independent?” The question is, “What kind of independence makes the most sense for client, business, and go

Today we are joined by David Stelzer to discuss the story of Azure Standard and what it takes to build real food resilience in an age of fragile supply chains, declining soil health and centralized food distribution. We will look at how one family walked away from conventional farming practices long before organic food became popular, and how the challenges they faced led to the creation of one of the largest independent organic food networks in America. We will also dig into the problems within the modern food system and what families can do to regain control over where their … Continue reading →

Visit www.joniradio.org for more inspiration and encouragement! --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

John is travelling this weekend, but his trip took him through Portland. Cullen details their comic crawl, the arcade, and the Hops game they attended. Another San Diego Comic Con is in the books. We got some comic announcements, trailers, and a new Ghost Rider. Cullen and Jerry walk through some of the news that captured their attention. The Eisner Awards were given out during San Diego. We look back to see how we did with our picks from back in June. Next week is our book club discussion on JLA: The Nail. We can't wait to discuss this brilliant work by Alan Davis from the late 1990s. We have our weekly Pick 3 choices, sponsored by our friends at Clint's Comics. We would love to hear your comments on the show. Let us know what you've been reading or watching this week. Contact us on our website, Facebook, Instagram, or by email. We want to hear from you! As always, we are the Worst. Comic. Podcast. EVER! and we hope you enjoy the show. The Worst. Comic. Podcast. EVER! is proudly sponsored by Clint's Comics, 815 N Noland Road in Independence, Missouri. Whether it is new comics, trade paperbacks, action figures, statues, posters, or T-shirts, the friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you find exactly what you need. You should also know that Clint's Comics has the most extensive collection of back issues in the metro area. If you need to find a particular book to complete a title's run, head to Clint's or check out their website at clintscomics.com. Tell them that the Worst. Comic. Podcast. EVER! sent you.

According to research from the National Longitudinal Transition Study-2, only about 39% of autistic students who pursue postsecondary education earn a degree within eight years of leaving high school, compared to 52% of the general population. Studies also show that while approximately one-third of autistic young adults enroll in college, many face significant barriers to completion without the right accommodations, transition planning, and support systems.¹² In this episode of Let's Have This Conversation, we sit down with Carol Waldman, a passionate advocate dedicated to improving outcomes for neurodivergent young adults as they navigate the critical transition from high school to college, employment, and independent adulthood. As the parent of a neurodivergent son who graduated from the University of Wisconsin, traveled independently throughout Europe, and completed an internship in Washington, D.C., Carol has experienced firsthand what is possible when young adults are equipped with the right resources, advocacy, and support. She also understands the challenges many families face when school-based services end and young adults are expected to navigate adulthood on their own. Through her volunteer work with Autism Tree and her role as a parent mentor, Carol helps families recognize that college and meaningful careers are attainable goals for neurodivergent students. She shares practical strategies, resources, and lessons learned from her own family's journey while helping others build confidence in their children's potential. Beyond individual advocacy, Carol believes lasting change requires policy reform. Drawing on decades of experience in political and public affairs—including service as an Executive Board Member of the California Democratic Party, State Delegate, legislative field representative, and National Delegate to the Democratic National Convention—she is now focused on advancing legislation, programs, and systemic solutions that improve postsecondary education, employment opportunities, and independent living outcomes for neurodivergent young adults. Join us for a powerful conversation about possibility, advocacy, independence, and the collective responsibility to create pathways where neurodivergent individuals can not only succeed—but thrive. For more information: https://www.thewaldmanway.org/ LinkedIn: @Carol Waldman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bryce Hamilton, LSCSW sits down with Katherine Hood, Self-Leadership Coach, to discuss how to lead life in a way you... The post Using Self-Leadership to Guide Independence in Kids with Katherine Hood appeared first on WebTalkRadio.net.

Some parenting questions remain relevant no matter a child's age or stage. In this replay episode, early education experts Rachel Robertson and Claire Goss explore why independence and self-help skills are critical to child development and share practical ways families can help children build confidence, capability, and self-reliance. ______________________________________________________ Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Have a parenting question or story to share? Email us at tplpodcast@brighthorizons.com and your question could be featured on a future episode! Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies for parenting in the early years. Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.

"Your savings represent hours you worked, risks you accepted, businesses you built, time spent away from people you love, and consumption you postponed for the sake of the future. When the monetary system allows others to dilute those savings without your consent, it weakens your claim on that future. Bitcoin offers a peaceful alternative, giving every individual access to property that cannot be created without limit, altered for political convenience, or administered according to a different set of rules for the powerful." "Two hundred and fifty years ago, Americans declared that they would no longer live as subjects. […] the best way to honor that inheritance is not merely to look backward and celebrate what they accomplished. It is to identify the unfinished work of freedom in our own time and do our part to advance it." ~ Cory Klippsten Today I'm reading Cory Klippsten's latest piece, The Battle for Monetary Independence. Cory uses his grandfather's World War II journal to show that real historical changes aren't won through sudden heroic events, but built on quiet, unglamorous, day-to-day work. Bull markets get the hype while bear markets do the actual heavy lifting. I share my thoughts on what true monetary freedom looks like and the few things that matter far more than waiting for Wall Street's permission. Check out the original article: The Battle for Monetary Independence by Cory Klippsten (Link: https://www.swanbitcoin.com/essay/the-battle-for-monetary-independence/) Host Links ⁠⁠Guy on Nostr ⁠(Link: http://tinyurl.com/2xc96ney) Guy on X ⁠(Link: https://twitter.com/theguyswann) Guy on Instagram (Link: https://www.instagram.com/theguyswann) Guy on TikTok (Link: https://www.tiktok.com/@theguyswann) Guy's Takes on YouTube (Link: https://www.youtube.com/@GuysTake) Guy Swann on YouTube (Link: https://www.youtube.com/@theguyswann) Bitcoin Audible on X⁠ (Link: https://twitter.com/BitcoinAudible) The Guy Swann Network Broadcast Room on Keet (Link: https://tinyurl.com/3na6v839) Check out our awesome partners! Become sovereign, hold your keys, be censorship resistant with the Bitbox hardware wallet. Get 5% off everything in the store with code GUY (Link: https://bitbox.swiss/guy) Get 10% off the best Bitcoin board game in the world, HODLUP! Or any of the other great games from The Free Market Kids! Use code GUY10 at checkout for 10% off your cart! (Link: https://www.freemarketkids.com/collections/games-1) "People have only as much liberty as they have the intelligence to want and the courage to take." ~ Emma Goldman

In EP397, Dan and I share how we went from being quite independent – in part as a way to prioritize our respective spiritual paths – to now being surprisingly (to us!) interdependent and closely enmeshed in many ways. Please email me at support@dramyjohnson.com with your feedback and suggestions about this episode. We would love to hear what you think and what you'd like to hear more about as we record a new series of episodes for you. The post EP397: From Independence to union appeared first on Dr. Amy Johnson.

July 27, 2026- Legislation awaiting the governor's signature would require municipal social workers have panic buttons when making a home visit. We consider this safety proposal with Sharon McLennon Wier, executive director of the Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York.

 Since 2008, Harmony Home Medical has provided quality medical supplies to the San Diego community. Their mission is to help clients maximize their independence and quality of life by offering solutions that remove unnecessary challenges—because everyone deserves to live comfortably with the right medical equipment.Founder Erica Sell recognized a gap in the industry: too often, decisions about medical equipment were made by insurance companies, not by the people who use the products. At the time, most Durable Medical Equipment (DME) dealers operated out of warehouses with little or no showroom space, making it difficult for customers to see or try products before purchasing.Erica set out to change this by creating inviting showrooms where customers could explore, compare, and try out a wide selection of medical equipment and home access solutions—just like shopping for any other product. This vision led to the creation of Harmony Home Medical's beautiful showrooms and their commitment to delivering next-level service and education to every client.Whether you or your loved one needs support, Harmony Home Medical is here to help you live more comfortably and independently. https://harmonyhomemedical.com/pages/home-accesshttp://www.yourlotandparcel.orgSupport the show

https://vimeo.com/1213098151?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci   https://www.currentfederaltaxdevelopments.com/podcasts/2026/7/26/2026-07-27-aicpa-new-interpretation-on-indepdendence-and-tax-engagements   This week we look at: Valuation of Remainder Interest Gifts Upon Trust Termination: State Law and Net Gift Adjustments in Lewis v. Commissioner Revenue Procedure 2026-26: Technical Overview of 2027 Indexing Adjustments for Premium Tax Credits and Affordability Standards Limitations of Interest Abatement Claims Under I.R.C. § 6404(e)(1) in the Context of ERC-Driven Amendments Section 6015(c) Relief and the Substantiation Trap: An Analysis of Anderson v. Commissioner Navigating the AICPA's New Tax Services Independence Standards: A Guide for Practitioners

Is there such a thing as a model Federationist or blind person? Is Federation philosophy a rigid set of rules? How do we provide support and raise expectations without judging each other's choices? Anil and Melissa discuss these questions, dispel some common misconceptions, and point to some resources to help understand and apply the NFB philosophy.   Important links: NFB Philosophy: What It Is and What It Is Not (Braille Monitor article by President Riccobono and others) The nature of Independence (speech by Dr. Kenneth Jernigan given at the 1993 National Convention)

This week we look at: Valuation of Remainder Interest Gifts Upon Trust Termination: State Law and Net Gift Adjustments in Lewis v. Commissioner Revenue Procedure 2026-26: Technical Overview of 2027 Indexing Adjustments for Premium Tax Credits and Affordability Standards Limitations of Interest Abatement Claims Under I.R.C. § 6404(e)(1) in the Context of ERC-Driven Amendments Section 6015(c) Relief and the Substantiation Trap: An Analysis of Anderson v. Commissioner Navigating the AICPA's New Tax Services Independence Standards: A Guide for PractitionersAn audio only version of this week's broadcast can be downloaded or streamed below: 2026-07-27 AICPA New Interpretation on Independence and Tax Engagements Edward K. Zollars, CPA (Arizona) Download Articles on each update and a copy of the slides for this week can be downloaded as a PDF below:Current Federal Tax Developments July 27, 2026 ArticlesPresentation Slides

https://youtu.be/YZm4NQyk-jUhttps://odysee.com/@NaomiBrockwell:4/independence:1This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of Cyberspace by EFF co-founder John Perry Barlow, and also America's 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.But what does independence means in an age where our digital lives are more controlled than ever?In this video I will walk you through three things: - the context of the original declaration of independence- the promise of John Perry Barlow's Declaration of the Independence of Cyberspace- the kind of declaration we need today to protect our privacy, autonomy, and independence into the years to come.00:00 On Behalf of the Future02:46 Tyranny in 177608:14 The Declaration of Independence of Cyberspace11:26 Privacy Protects Your Independence14:16 A New Declaration18:17 What Now?21:10 Privacy Will Save the Free Internet22:38 The DeclarationBreaking free doesn't require a revolution. It starts with a simple decision. Stop handing over your mind, your money, and your children to systems designed to exploit and control them. Independence, in 2026, is something you have to choose every single day.NBTV is a project of the Ludlow Institute, a 501c3 non profit whose mission is to advance freedom through technology.To support NBTV, visit:https://LudlowInstitute.org/donate(As a 501(c)(3) non profit, all donations are tax-deductible in the USA as permitted by law.)Visit our shop!https://Shop.NBTV.mediaOur eBook "Beginner's Introduction To Privacy:https://amzn.to/3WDSfkuBeware of scammers, I will never give you a phone number or reach out to you with investment advice. I do not give investment advice.Support the show

A DIVA, A PIANO, A HOUSE TRACK – Pt. 1 In this episode of Turn The Beat Around, we dive into the golden age of 90s piano house — a decade when soaring vocals and bright piano riffs shaped the sound of the clubs. Across the hour, we revisit the anthems that lit up queer nightlife, the producers who pushed house music into the mainstream, and the stories behind classics like “Finally,” “Everybody Everybody,” and Lulu's triumphant “Independence.” It's a celebration of empowerment and the unmistakable sound of 90s piano house, delivered by the divas who brought the energy and sparkle. INDEPENDENCE Lulu 1993 (Brothers In Rhythm Mix) EVERYBODY, EVERYBODY Black Box 1990 (Love Unlimited Mix) SECRET LOVE Danni’elle Gaha 1993 AIN’T NO MAN Dina Carroll 1992 DO YOU WANT IT RIGHT NOW Degrees of Motion 1991 (King Street Edit) FINALLY CeCe Penistion 1991 (Choice Mix) TOO BLIND TO SEE IT Kym Sims 1991 TOO MANY FISH Frankie Knuckles and Adeva 1995 The post TTBA Replay 24JUL2026 Pt. 1 appeared first on Turn the Beat Around.

In which Robert & Amy celebrate the virtue of Independence, Independence Day, The Declaration of Independence, and you ... unique, awesome, independent you!  Ayn Rand on Independence.  Also, Henry David Thoreau, Rachel Brosnahan, Rebounding, Idolatry, Anne of Green Gables, and the depths of despair ... and Happy Malala Day!

This episode of High School Sports Saturday broadcast live from the new Williamson County Schools (WCS) Innovation Center in Franklin, Tennessee, opens with WCS District Director of Athletics Coach Patrick Whitlock, who introduces the expanded Fall Media Day lineup—now featuring girls' volleyball and soccer alongside football—while highlighting the center's career-focused vocational programs (including flight simulators, cybersecurity, culinary arts, and hospitality management), the "Outside the Lines" (OTL) student media initiative, student transfer policies, and the importance of hiring quality coaches to build strong school athletic culture. First-year Centennial High School head coach Coach Chad Broadrick then details assembling his coaching staff, transitioning from defensive coordinator, and reshaping the Cougars' offense following the loss of key 2025 playmakers Mitchell Granger and Malachi Steel by leaning on five returning senior offensive linemen ahead of preseason scrimmages against Lebanon, Independence, and Father Ryan. Next, Nolensville High School head coach Coach Scott Stiddem provides an outlook on his second season leading the Knights, detailing the return of 14 starters (seven on offense and seven on defense), extensive stadium upgrades featuring new turf with heat-reducing green rubber pellets, LED lights, and a video board, his strong support for multi-sport athletes, and a challenging early schedule starting with a Thursday night season opener against Antioch on MyTV30. Nolensville senior defensive lineman Jake Centell follows, explaining how his background as a three-time state-placing wrestler enhances his leverage, hand-fighting, and physical conditioning on the field, while discussing his summer weight training regimen, interest in aviation, and college recruiting process. Senior quarterback Ryan Newell then discusses taking over as Nolensville's starting signal-caller alongside a close-knit group of classmates who have played together since middle school, explaining how his commitment to play Division I baseball at Bowling Green State University and his childhood experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu assist his vision and quick decision-making under pressure as the team pursues a state championship. Finally, The Tennessean high school sports columnist Tom Kreager wraps up the broadcast by reviewing the start of full-pad practices across Middle Tennessee, analyzing the commitment of five-star offensive lineman David Sanders Jr. to the University of Tennessee, spotlighting Christ Presbyterian Academy's (CPA) passing attack led by quarterback Bo Bryan and wide receivers Maximus Curry and Maddox Porter, and previewing The Tennessean's annual "Dandy Dozen" series profiling the region's top high school football talent.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Independence ~ How can I tell my aunt to stop being a busybody? Listen to caller's personal dramas four times each week as Dr. Kenner takes your calls and questions on parenting, romance, love, family, marriage, divorce, hobbies, career, mental health - any personal issue! Call anytime, toll free 877-Dr-Kenner. Visit www.drkenner.com for more information about the show (where you can also download free chapter one of her serious relationships guidebook).

In this continuation of our African Revolutions and Decolonization series, we we have an lengthy conversation that just starts to scratch the surface of Sudan, with a terrific guest and guest host.  Here, we are joined by Mohamed Khougali, author of Politically Unconscious: The Psychic Aftermath of the Sudanese Revolution, and returning guest host Ruehl Muller, whom you will remember from our episodes with the Communist Party of Swaziland's Bafanabakhe Sacolo.  Stay tuned, part 2 of this conversation will be coming very soon! Mohamed Khougali is a Sudanese socialist who was part of the Sudanese revolution of 2018-19. He is currently residing in Germany where he and his wife founded the Black Radicals, an anti-racist group informed by the Black Radical Tradition. He also continues his radical psychological practice, where you can reach him (notatherapist.de).  Also be sure to follow his instagram, Black Radicals!  Ruehl Muller is senior lecturer/associate professor at the Institute of Creativity and Innovation at Xiamen University in China, and the editor of the fantastic Building a People's Art: Selected Works of Trường Chinh and Tố Hữu (buy a physical copy or download the free PDF from Iskra Books). Help support the show by signing up to our patreon, where you also will get bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/guerrillahistory 

The inside story of an American WWII fighter pilot who sacrificed a booming life in 1948 Los Angeles to fight in Israel's War of Independence.  The actions that helped Stan Andrews turn the IAF into one of the most elite in the worldWhat makes the IAF so exceptional, and how it has retained that edge for 77 years.Why it is important to learn about Middle East history, and how important it is to today's world.  The current situation with Iran and what he is seeing on the ground in Israel.How and why Weiss came to be featured in the Nancy Spielberg documentary, Above and Beyond. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/arroe-collins-unplugged-totally-uncut--994165/support.

The Rebel News podcasts features free audio-only versions of select RebelNews+ content and other Rebel News long-form videos, livestreams, and interviews. Monday to Friday enjoy the audio version of Ezra Levant's daily TV-style show, The Ezra Levant Show, where Ezra gives you his contrarian and conservative take on free speech, politics, and foreign policy through in-depth commentary and interviews. Wednesday evenings you can listen to the audio version of The Gunn Show with Sheila Gunn Reid the Chief Reporter of Rebel News. Sheila brings a western sensibility to Canadian news. With one foot in the oil patch and one foot in agriculture, Sheila challenges mainstream media narratives and stands up for Albertans. If you want to watch the video versions of these podcasts, make sure to begin your free RebelNewsPlus trial by subscribing at http://www.RebelNewsPlus.com

What is hyper independence? What does it have to do with women, trauma and relationships? We explain in this classic episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How is Marine Le Pen connected to the Algerian War of Independence? What can the cult film, La Haine, tell us about life in the banlieues for people of Algerian descent? What happened to Algerian protestors in Paris in 1961? In the final episode of the series, William and Anita explore how the Algerian war continues to echo in French politics today. Summer sale is here: get an annual Empire Club membership for an extra 20% off with code SUMMER26. That's ad-free listening, early-access, every bonus episode, and full access to our exclusive members' series. Sale ends August 31st, so grab it before summer's over. For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com. Email: empire@goalhanger.com Instagram: @empirepoduk Blue Sky: @empirepoduk X: @empirepoduk Assistant Producer: Imee Marriott Editor: Bruno Di Castri Social Producer: Charlie Johnson Producer: Anouska Lewis Executive Producer: Dom Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe Beech is not - we repeat NOT - an entrepreneur (per him). He also doesn't like titles and - until recently - wasn't even that fond of his own company's name. What Joe IS is someone who has learned the art of staying open to possibility and embracing a good pivot when it comes his way. He's taking his own experiences and sharing them with college and uni students about to make the leap into their own careers, which technically makes him a mentor - another word he's not that fond of. If you're ready to make a change and take your own leap, this good guest's upfront and truthful thoughts may be just the inspiration you need. And don't forget our 2026 theme: SAY YES. Joe Beech is saying yes. _________________________________ SLIDESHOW: IN COLOR! now playing in London. It's the live storytelling show the Los Angeles Times declares, "Downright magical, uncomfortable and shockingly honest!" and Theatreland Adventures London cheers, "FOUR STARS - This is unlike anything I've seen before, a warm, engaging, and memorable evening!" Tickets & Info: https://events.humanitix.com/slideshow-in-color/tickets NOW AVAILABLE: CUPID'S CURSE - the fourth book in Steve's series THE DOG WALKING DETECTIVES MYSTERIES and catch up on the rest: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/search?q=Dog%20walking%20detectives%20Steven%20j%20Silverman

Marvel Comics made a lot of announcements last week that got a lot of people talking, including us! First, Marvel is relocating their comic publishing offices from New York City to Los Angeles. Next, C. B. Cebulski is out as Editor-In-Chief. And the new EIC will be Steve Wacker. That is a lot to unpack in one episode. Have you started reading JLA: The Nail yet? Join us at the start of August for our next WCPE Book Club discussion. We have our weekly Pick 3 choices, sponsored by our friends at Clint's Comics. Plus, we have a new trivia question and a look at the Top Ten books from last week.    We would love to hear your comments on the show. Let us know what you've been reading or watching this week. Contact us on our website, Facebook, Instagram, or by email. We want to hear from you! As always, we are the Worst. Comic. Podcast. EVER! and we hope you enjoy the show. The Worst. Comic. Podcast. EVER! is proudly sponsored by Clint's Comics, 815 N Noland Road in Independence, Missouri. Whether it is new comics, trade paperbacks, action figures, statues, posters, or T-shirts, the friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you find exactly what you need. You should also know that Clint's Comics has the most extensive collection of back issues in the metro area. If you need to find a particular book to complete a title's run, head to Clint's or check out their website at clintscomics.com. Tell them that the Worst. Comic. Podcast. EVER! sent you.

In this episode of Success is Subjective, Joanna sits down with Kasey Bradshaw, National Director of Admissions and Outreach at BrightQuest Treatment Centers, to discuss the winding road that led him from a small, impoverished town in South Carolina to a career helping young adults navigate serious mental health challenges. Kasey shares how growing up believing college was the only path to success eventually gave way to a much broader understanding of fulfillment, purpose, and identity. Together, he and Joanna explore why adulthood doesn't have to follow a traditional timeline, the difference between a career and a calling, and why your job—or your diagnosis—should never define who you are. Whether you're a parent supporting a struggling young adult or someone questioning your own path, this conversation is a refreshing reminder that there's more than one way to build a meaningful life. Kasey's Resources: BrightQuest Treatment CentersBrightQuest NashvilleBrightQuest San DiegoNashville Half MarathonFollow BrightQuestInstagramFacebookLinkedInConnect with Kasey BradshawKasey Bradshaw on LinkedInConnect with Joanna Lilley  Therapeutic Consulting AssociationLilley Consulting WebsiteLilley Consulting on Facebook Lilley Consulting on YouTubeEmail: joanna@lilleyconsulting.com#TherapeuticConsulting #LilleyConsulting #Successful #TherapeuticPrograms #Therapy #MentalHealthMatters #MentalHealthAwareness #Podcast #PodcastCommunity #TheJourney #SuccessIsSubjectivePodcast #TheUnpavedRoad #PFCAudioVideo #BrightQuest #BrightQuestNashville #BrightQuestSanDiego #BehavioralHealth #ComprehensiveCare #DiagnosticAssessment #MentalHealthEvaluation #TraumaTreatment

From Exam Room to Empire: Building a Practice, Brand, and Wealth with Dr. Po Raval (Doc Dynasty)In this episode of The Pediatric Lounge, the hosts interview Dr. Po Raval, founder of Doc Dynasty, who shares her remarkable journey from launching a solo podiatry practice to becoming a successful entrepreneur, consultant, and physician branding expert.Dr. Raval explains how a podiatrist's successful treatment of her mother's ankle injury inspired her career path. She discusses gaining valuable hands-on experience during training and opening her first practice immediately after residency by leasing an affordable office inside a health club—creating an instant referral base among athletes and active patients.As healthcare reimbursement evolved, Dr. Raval diversified her income through nursing home care, consulting, and business development. She describes how earning an MBA expanded her perspective beyond clinical medicine and led to opportunities advising New Jersey Medicaid and other healthcare organizations on practice operations and systems improvement.The conversation then shifts to the modern realities of physician entrepreneurship. Dr. Raval explains why every physician should develop a personal brand, build a strong digital presence, and consistently create educational content. She shares practical strategies for leveraging websites, search engine optimization, social media analytics, and AI tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini to generate ideas, optimize profiles, and improve marketing efficiency.Throughout the discussion, Dr. Raval emphasizes that AI should enhance—not replace—clinical judgment. She encourages physicians to think critically, question guidelines when appropriate, maintain authentic relationships with patients, and recognize that building a successful medical practice requires both excellent clinical care and intentional business strategy.Whether you're starting your first practice, growing an established office, or exploring physician entrepreneurship, this episode provides practical advice on building a sustainable career and lasting professional legacy.Episode Chapters00:00 – Welcome and Guest Introduction01:49 – Why Dr. Raval Chose Podiatry04:04 – Understanding Podiatry Training05:29 – Building a Specialty Referral Network07:34 – Launching a Practice on a Budget11:56 – Early Growth and Marketing Strategies14:25 – Adapting to HMOs and Creating New Revenue Streams18:22 – An MBA Mindset: Consulting and Business Growth22:29 – The Modern Practice Growth Playbook26:46 – Reaching the Right Audience on Social Media31:03 – Patient Outcomes, Reviews, and Practice Growth32:35 – Creating an Effective Marketing Budget33:59 – The Story Behind Doc Dynasty37:29 – Batch Content Creation for Busy Physicians39:01 – Using AI for Hooks, Headlines, and Hashtags42:29 – Why Consistency Outperforms Viral Content44:26 – Why Marketing Is Essential for Every Practice47:52 – Patient Retention and Staying Top of Mind50:21 – Negotiation Lessons for Physicians52:33 – AI Tools Every Physician Should Know57:08 – Why AI Still Requires Critical Thinking1:02:00 – Why AI Won't Replace Great Physicians1:03:12 – Closing RemarksSupport the show

Helping learners become truly independent means more than fading prompts. It means knowing when to step back so confidence, problem solving, and self-management can grow. While it's natural to want to help, too much adult guidance can unintentionally create dependence that limits opportunities at home, school, work, and in the community.We explore the difference between prompt dependence and people dependence, and why building independence should always be part of the teaching plan from the very beginning. We also share practical strategies for replacing adult prompts with natural supports such as visual schedules, checklists, calendars, timers, self-monitoring systems, and environmental cues that learners can rely on long after direct support has faded.Along the way, we discuss why allowing safe opportunities to struggle is an important part of learning, how collaboration with families and teams supports successful fading, and why thoughtfully reducing support helps learners develop the confidence and skills they need for greater autonomy. Independence is not about removing support. It's about creating systems that evolve with the learner and promote lasting success.What's Inside: Why prompt fading is only one part of building independencePractical tools that reduce reliance on adult supportStrategies for promoting confidence through thoughtful fadingMentioned in This Episode:Episode 105: Hierarchy of Prompting in ABASelf & MatchHowToABA.com/joinHow to ABA on YouTubeFind us on FacebookFollow us on Instagram

https://media.blubrry.com/thesuccessfulmindpodcast/ins.blubrry.com/thesuccessfulmindpodcast/TSM736_MDM_Jul4_26.mp3   A financial independence mindset doesn’t start with a bank balance. It starts with a decision, made long before the money shows up, about who you’re going to be when things get uncomfortable. I learned that the hard way, and this episode is where I finally tell the whole story. Financial Independence Mindset: Why Borrowing Becomes a Trap In my teenage years and early twenties, I had zero discipline with money. I was forever hitting people up for a few bucks, two here, five there, until I had a mental list of everyone I owed. I’d promise I’ll get you next week, then borrow from someone else just to pay the first person back. Someone once told me the average person is one footstep away from becoming a criminal, and I was furious hearing it. But when they walked me through it, borrow money, pay people late, ignore what you owe, I realized I was that guy. The Founding Fathers and the Space They Gave Us Two hundred and fifty years ago, a group of men risked their lives to separate from the British Crown, committing treason, knowing they’d hang if it didn’t work. What they won for us wasn’t independence itself. It was the space to go build our own. That distinction matters more than most people realize. You can live in the freest country in the world and still be ruled by fear, debt, or somebody else’s opinion of how you should live. Independence has to be claimed by each of us, individually, every day. Financial Independence Mindset: What I Learned Paying Everyone Back Before enlisting in the army, I decided I’d pay every person back first. So I worked three jobs, McDonald’s at five in the morning, a warehouse shift after, then UPS until two the next morning, and I cleared every debt before I shipped out. Something shifted in me permanently that year. I stopped seeing money as something to scramble for and started seeing it as something earned through decisions, not desperation. That’s the real foundation here: you stop borrowing your way out of discomfort and start working your way through it instead. Stepping Into Your Own Independence This Year Your subconscious will always offer the easier road, another loan, another excuse, another reason it isn’t your fault. But the moment you decide I will not be denied my success, everything starts to move. You don’t need to sacrifice the way our founding fathers did. You just need to make their decision on a smaller scale, and keep making it every day. That’s the difference between hoping things get better and actually building the life you say you want. Nobody hands you that shift. You have to choose it, on purpose, over and over, until it becomes who you are. Episode 717 – Stop Letting Others Think for You Episode 646 – The Importance of Personal Power Episode 28 – Uncommon Ground YOU'VE LEARNED THE STRATEGIES… SO WHY DOES YOUR REVENUE STILL CONTINUE TO PLATEAU?Here’s what I know about most business owners: They’re working hard, doing the right things, and still hitting the same income ceiling year after year. That ceiling has a name — it’s your Financial Set Point. It’s the unconscious limit you’ve placed on what you believe you can earn, and until you see it clearly, it runs the show no matter what strategies you put in place.That’s what we work on at my upcoming Business Intensive in August.  Over two days, I'll help you identify your financial set point, understand why it’s there, and break through it so you can finally earn what you want without the constant struggle and hustle that’s been getting you nowhere.If that sounds like exactly what’s been missing, you don’t want to sit this one out. Apply here to join us. If you like the show, would you be so kind as to leave us a short review on Apple Podcasts? It takes less than a minute and really makes a difference in helping me spread the Successful Mind message around the globe.  LEAVE A REVIEW Check out David's book! Get Your Copy Today! Miss anything? Don't forget to subscribe to the show to keep up with your own successful mindset. We're available wherever you listen to podcasts:   Apple Podcasts Spotify Pandora iHeartRadio Amazon Music Life is Now wants you to get SOCIAL! You can find us on the following platforms:  Facebook X-twitter Instagram Linkedin Youtube The post The Financial Independence Mindset appeared first on The Successful Mind Podcast.

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