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What's up Model FAs?! This week David interviews Ed Kuresman from Mai Capital Management about his career journey. Ed started in finance during the tech bubble, interned at Madison Financial Advisors, and grew the firm from $20 million to over $1 billion in assets. During this period Ed emphasized the importance of client referrals, a positive culture, and strategic partnerships. In 2024, Madison joined Mai, adding operational expertise and expanding to 33 people. During this episode, Ed highlighted the significance of long-term planning and the impact of Phil Knight's "Shoe Dog" on his approach to business. He also discussed handling market volatility by focusing on financial planning and client education. Connect with Ed: Email: ed.kuresman@mai.capital Website: https://mai.capital/team/edward-kuresman/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-kuresman-cfa-7646931/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm. MAI compliance signed off on the recording, with one ask; in the podcast description can you include the following disclosure language: MAI Capital Management, LLC (“MAI”) is an investment adviser registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The opinions and analyses expressed herein are subject to change at any time. Any suggestions contained herein are general, and do not take into account an individual's or entity's specific circumstances or applicable governing law, which may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and be subject to change. Distribution hereof does not constitute legal, tax, accounting, investment or other professional advice. Recipients should consult their professional advisors prior to acting on the information set forth herein.
In this episode of the Model FA Podcast, David DeCelle is joined by Dr. Joshua Wilson, a behavioral finance expert with a PhD and a background in advisory, to discuss his journey and insights within the financial services industry. He emphasizes the importance of understanding subconscious decision-making in client relationships and the need for advisors to integrate behavioral finance principles beyond just education. Dr. Wilson highlights the significance of pre-client conversations and the emotional connection with clients. He also discusses the impact of AI on the industry, suggesting it will raise the bar for advisors, necessitating a focus on human elements and emotional intelligence. Dr. Wilson recommends the book "The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness" by Tim Keller for its exploration of gospel humility and self-worth. In this episode: Introduction and Guest Background Motivation Behind Pursuing a PhD Behavioral Finance Philosophy Client Connection Strategies Center of Influence (COI) Relationship Management Technology and Future of Wealth Management Career Advice for Young Professionals Personal Development and Recommended Reading Conclusion and Contact Information Connect with Dr. Wilson: Email: joshua@drjoshuawilson.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/futureproofhq/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
Today we are joined by Matt Middleton, CEO of Future Proof, a media and events company aiming to modernize the wealth and investment management industry. Matt shares his journey from humble beginnings to founding Future Proof, emphasizing the importance of networking and personal connections. He discusses the company's unique approach, including casual attire, shorter sessions, and innovative networking technology. Future Proof has grown significantly, with attendance increasing from 1,600 in 2022 to nearly 2,700 in 2023. Matt envisions Future Proof as a transformative force in the financial services ecosystem, aiming to change industry perceptions and foster meaningful connections. Connect with Matt: Email: matt@futureproofhq.com Website: https://futureproofhq.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/futureproofhq/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
Stand by Model FA's! In this episode, Joanne Bradford (Chief Money Officer at Domain Money) reveals the future of personal finance, challenging traditional wealth management paradigms! Don't miss this game-changing conversation about money, technology, and personal empowerment!
Check it out! Host David DeCelle interviews Craig Butler, Chief Growth Officer at True Independence, about business development and sales strategies. True Independence, which recently merged with Sanctuary Wealth, manages $45 billion in assets with 120 advisors. Craig emphasizes the importance of differentiating in a crowded market, offering comprehensive business services including compliance, marketing, and technology support. He highlights the need for advisors to transition from practices to businesses, suggesting tools like EOS and business valuations to assess and improve operations. Craig also recommends Donald Miller's "Building a StoryBrand" for effective client engagement. Connect with Craig: Website: https://www.tru-ind.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tru-independence/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode of the Model FA podcast, David DeCelle, CEO of ModelFA, interviews Jonathan Foster, President and CEO of Angeles Wealth Management, a national wealth management firm serving ultra-high-net-worth families. Angeles Wealth Management has grown from $250 million in 2017 to $2 billion in 2022. Jonathan shares his journey from Institutional Equity sales trader to founding his own firm and later joining Angeles. He discusses their unique business model, which aligns interests with clients by charging performance fees for alternative investments, leading to a 50% revenue increase in 2024. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of client selection, education, and legacy planning in their client experience. Connect with Jonathan: Website: https://www.angelesinvestments.com/private-wealth LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanrfoster,https://www.linkedin.com/company/angeles-investments/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
Buckle up Model FAs! In this episode David sits down with Phil Weiss to discuss the critical importance of talking to your clients about Life Planning. Phil shares his 3 favorite questions that will change your life as he and David discuss discovering your potential and the nuances of financial planning from overcoming college debt to planning for financial freedom through the late stages of life. Connect with Phil: Email: philweiss@apprisewealth.com Website: https://apprisewealth.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-weiss/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode, David is joined by Gary Sirak is an experienced financial advisor who has been in the industry for 45 years. He wrote a book called "How to Retire and Not Die" based on his experiences seeing clients struggle with retirement. The key themes of the book are purpose, passion, and having a plan for retirement. Gary emphasizes the importance of retirees finding meaningful activities and not just sitting around, as that can lead to health issues. He shares examples of clients who have thrived in retirement by staying active and engaged. In this episode: Having a plan for retirement is crucial - retirees need to have purpose, passion, and a plan, not just sit around. Transitioning to retirement gradually by working part-time can help people adjust and figure out their new routine. Staying engaged, whether through travel, volunteering, or other hobbies, helps retirees avoid withering away. Spouses need to be on the same page about retirement plans and activities to avoid conflicts. Connect with Gary: Website: https://garysirak.com/contact-us/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode of the Model FA podcast, David DeCelle is joined by Amir Noor, CFP®, EA to discuss his journey in the financial industry. Amir started at 16, working his way up from life insurance paperwork to becoming a licensed advisor. He transitioned to a fee-only firm, offering a $400/month subscription model, which grew to over 50 clients in two years. Amir emphasizes the importance of building personal connections and providing genuine financial advice. He discusses his pricing strategy, which evolved from a subscription to a payment plan, and his approach to client acquisition, including networking and public speaking. Amir also highlights the importance of specialization in the financial industry. In this episode: Amir Noor's early career starting at 16 in the financial industry Transitioning from commission-based to fee-only financial planning Amir's subscription-based business model and client acquisition strategies The importance of building personal connections and being authentic in networking Amir's approach to pricing and service model for clients Selective referrals and vetting professional relationships Amir's perspective on the different types of financial advisors and the impact of "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" Connect with Amir: Email: amir@unitedfpg.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amirnoor/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this week's episode of the Model FA Podcast, David DeCelle interviews Joe Jordan, a renowned behavioral finance expert and author of "Living a Life of Significance," which has sold over 150,000 copies in five languages. Joe shares his journey from starting in financial services while still in college to his modern day roles and ventures. He emphasizes the importance of purpose-driven retirement planning, highlighting the need for financial advisors to evolve into life wealth coaches. Joe discusses the impact of technology, regulation, and demographics on the industry and stresses the necessity of human connection in financial services. He also touches on the global population decline and its implications for economic growth. In this episode: Introduction to Joe Jordan's background and achievements in financial services Joe's journey from college into various industry roles, and insights on the evolution of the business The importance of "retiring towards something" and helping clients plan for their "third act" The role of AI in enhancing advisor efficiency to focus on more human-centric client relationships Overcoming the fear of rejection through processes, prospecting, and building confidence Demographic shifts and their impact on the future of financial services About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode of the Model FA podcast, David DeCelle is joined by Paul McManus, a best-selling author and financial services expert, about the benefits of writing short books for financial advisors. Paul explains that writing a book helps advisors position themselves as educators rather than salespeople, shortening sales cycles and building trust. He describes a six-week process for creating short books, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and focusing on the target audience's problems and solutions. They also discuss the cost-effective benefits of publishing on Amazon, including the ability to print on demand and achieve bestseller status through strategic promotions. Connect with Paul McManus: Email: paul@moreclientsmorefun.com Website: https://www.theshortbookformula.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulgmcmanus/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode of the Model FA podcast, David DeCelle is joined by Angela York and Elyse Stoner to explore the art of creating unique and memorable events that not only drive business but also help deepen relationships. They share their expert insights on how events can be leveraged as powerful tools for growth, connection, and brand-building. Whether you're looking to enhance your business or foster stronger connections with clients and partners, this conversation is packed with actionable ideas and strategies. Tune in for valuable tips and inspiration! Check out these resources: Client Insight Questions for Event Success - https://subscribepage.io/DnBmvA Website - www.event-advisors.net Email - hello@event-advisors.net LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/event-advisors1/?viewAsMember=true Return on the Moment by Chip and Dan Heath - https://www.amazon.com/Power-Moments-Certain-Experiences-Extraordinary/dp/1501147765/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.y3676Wa5g9vwLyoJWzPwKyBeigKSR05uGHQyUbWahPfYWVqKwSAYiZ9GUKNrj2JVYi31dhO410Tsp5wo5ConcggW6Tydc9dnRqwt-uRgPYFAvqUcxdiOhCReYlxkpwnm_My5VtIbCquhukJA64FyaFxxh5iEmbCpm2JCidNvxSxPwYrFOSV6kpTBKEMAU1JIZs12lXM32MHIDnqrymMNl2sdQdx0HN4NaVxQZxezp_Y.eQda5kZxjAyU5javYOtxfZK_Ap6BdNvbBul2_Qcj9CY&dib_tag=se&hvadid=241605057005&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9031537&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=6803604307846816881&hvtargid=kwd-325068544030&hydadcr=20338_10163971&keywords=power+of+moments&qid=1738270511&sr=8-1 Connect with Angela York: Website: https://www.Event-Advisors.net LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/event-advisors1/?viewAsMember=true Connect with Elyse: Website: https://www.Event-Advisors.net LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elyse-adler-stoner/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode, David DeCelle, the CEO of ModelFA, sits down with Rick Burgess, from Forms Logic. Rick shares his unique journey, from his time in the Marines to his experiences as a financial advisor, wholesaler, and serial entrepreneur. Rick explains how Forms Logic, a data company that is revolutionizing the way the financial industry handles paperwork and data management. He provides insights into the challenges and inefficiencies in the industry, and how their platform is helping advisors, RIAs, and firms streamline their processes. Key Takeaways: Rick's unconventional career path and how it shaped his entrepreneurial mindset The importance of data-driven solutions in the financial industry Practical use cases of Forms Logic's platform for advisors, RIAs, and firms of all sizes Strategies for handling acquisitions and mergers efficiently using technology Rick's love for Stephen King's "It" and how it helps him unplug from the technical aspects of his work This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the financial industry looking to improve their data management, streamline their operations, and stay ahead of the curve. Connect with Rick: Website: https://www.formslogic.com/ Email: rick@primestc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsalive/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
This month's special episode of the Model FA podcast is another edition of the DDG - where David, Dan and Graham come together to mind meld about the Exchange (skool.com/exchange) and this month's episode is all about business development, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and relationship building in client interactions. The conversation also touches on technical difficulties faced during the podcast, team dynamics, and the significance of engaging conversations in a business context. The hosts share insights on how to effectively build trust and likability with clients while maintaining those relationships over time. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the importance of effective communication, networking, and the human element in business relationships. They discuss strategies for building rapport, leveraging referrals, and maintaining a personal touch in an increasingly digital world. We emphasize the significance of confidence and genuine curiosity in fostering meaningful connections and driving business growth. Key Takeaways: Authenticity is key in business development efforts. Building relationships requires intentional conversations. Technical difficulties can impact team dynamics during meetings. Engaging conversations are essential for client relationships. Collecting client reviews is crucial for business success. Trust is easier to gain than to maintain in relationships. A real person behind business efforts makes a difference. Challenging ideas in discussions can enhance podcast quality. Effective communication skills are vital for networking. People enjoy talking about themselves, which can enhance networking. Being genuinely interested in others makes you more likable. Identifying key individuals before networking events can lead to meaningful connections. Asking questions and being curious can lead to reciprocal conversations. Referrals are strengthened by reinforcing positive experiences with clients. The human element is crucial in a world leaning towards automation. Personalized communication can significantly improve client relationships. Confidence is built through consistent actions and small promises kept. Effective networking requires a focus on building relationships, not just seeking prospects. Maintaining a human touch in marketing can differentiate you from competitors. Connect with Dan: Website: https://www.fa.exchange Email: dallison@bchlife.com Connect with Graham: Website: https://www.fa.exchange Email: graham@modelfa.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theonlinemarketer/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode, David DeCelle, CEO of ModelFA, sits down with Jason Mirabella, founder of Deliver Advice. Jason shares his 25-year career journey in the financial services industry, discussing his transition to the RIA space and his experience as Chief Platform Officer and COO at WealthSource Partners, a $2.1-2.3 billion RIA. He explains the importance of moving from an advisor-centric mindset to an enterprise mindset when building scalable advisory firms. Jason introduces the "blocks" methodology of Deliver Advice, which focuses on nine key areas of an enterprise-level business, including strategy, platform, client experience, and culture. He emphasizes the need for a shared philosophy and framework to create cohesive outcomes for firms. The conversation also covers the challenges of organic growth and M&A in the industry, including the concept of "Franken Firms" and the risks associated with advisor-dependent businesses. Jason provides actionable steps for larger firms to address these issues, such as focusing on strategic planning and alignment. Key Takeaways: Jason's career journey and evolution from an analyst to an enterprise-level consultant The importance of moving from an advisor-centric to an enterprise mindset Deliver Advice's "blocks" methodology for building scalable advisory firms Addressing the challenges of organic growth and M&A in the industry Actionable steps for larger firms to improve organizational health and culture Connect with Jason: Website: https://www.DeliverAdvice.com Email: Jason@DeliverAdvice.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonmirabella/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode of the Model FA Podcast, host David DeCelle sits down with David Newson, the founder and CEO of XNW Digital, to explore his remarkable journey into the financial planning industry. From his unexpected start in the shoe department at Nordstrom to his foray into the world of behavioral healthcare, Newson's path has been anything but conventional. Key Moments: 0:01:49 - Newson's journey from Nordstrom to the financial planning industry 0:10:00 - Newson's experiences in the behavioral healthcare space and the personal challenges he faced 0:25:00 - Newson's insights on the importance of professional marketing language in the financial industry 0:32:38 - Newson's approach to evaluating a firm's marketing team and their ability to handle leads 0:49:03 - Newson's recommendation of the book "The Creative Act" by Rick Rubin and its impact on his understanding of creativity Tune in to hear Newson's unique perspective on the intersection of marketing, compliance, and growth in the financial planning industry. This episode is a must-listen for any firm looking to elevate their marketing efforts and drive sustainable growth. Connect with David: Email: david@xnwdigital.comWebsite: https://xnwdigital.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/newson/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this exciting episode of the Model FA Podcast, co-founders David DeCelle, Graham Gardner, and Dan Allison share fresh insights and actionable strategies straight from their thriving membership platform, The Exchange. Each month, they highlight key posts, discussions, and breakthroughs from within the community that offer high-value advice to financial advisors looking to grow and scale their practices. This episode is no exception as they dive deep into topics that matter most to advisors: refining your client segmentation process, the art of building a second-chair advisor role, and actionable tips for reaching your 2025 business goals. Whether you're looking to streamline your client experience, automate key areas of your business, or sharpen your marketing strategies, this episode offers a treasure trove of ideas and tools to help you elevate your practice. Get ready for a fun, insightful, and engaging conversation packed with practical takeaways you won't want to miss! Key Highlights: Client Segmentation with Adam Swerdlow Adam's new approach to client segmentation goes beyond just revenue. He uses a point system considering revenue, referral potential, wealth trajectory, service time, and client engagement. This method helps identify A, B, and C clients based on both qualitative and quantitative factors. If you're a member of the Exchange, search for “Client Segmentation” by Adam Swerdlow for more details and a downloadable Google doc. Key Takeaway: Evaluate your clients holistically—not just by the revenue they generate, but by their potential to refer new business and the energy they bring to your practice. Hiring a Second Chair Advisor A second-chair advisor can help advisors offload lower-value clients while maintaining service to your top-tier clients. This approach can help you scale your practice without losing relationships or revenue. Key Takeaway: Hiring a second chair advisor early on can make transitions smoother as you prepare to step back from day-to-day operations. It's a long-term play that ensures business continuity and client satisfaction. Michael Kitsis and the Power of Referral Strategies Paul McManus helps advisors become authors. He was recently featured on Michael Kitsis' podcast, and his calendar is already full for January. For advisors thinking about authoring a book, Paul's services can help bring your ideas to life and make you a bestseller. Key Takeaway: Networking with industry influencers, like Michael Kitsis, can significantly elevate your business and exposure. Automation and Operational Efficiency Ariel from Sphinx Automation and Jason Mirabella from Deliver Advice are contributing new courses and monthly calls on improving operational efficiency and automating business functions. Key Takeaway: Efficient automation can save valuable time and allow advisors to focus on high-impact activities. Google Reviews and Testimonial Strategies Building and systematizing a Google review program is crucial for advisors looking to enhance their online presence. Michael Kitsis discusses this in his podcast. Key Takeaway: Set up automation for requesting reviews, integrate them into your CRM, and ensure you aren't bombarding clients who've already given a review. January Webinar on Google Reviews Save the Date: On January 23rd, at 12 PM ET, join David DeCelle and Andrew Johnson for a webinar on how to leverage testimonials and Google reviews for your practice. Register here (available before the event). VIP Mastermind and Member Highlights Congrats to Melody Brady, Joe Moss, and David Daley for reaching Level 6 in the Exchange. These members will participate in the first VIP mastermind, where Dan, Graham, and David will help them refine their business strategies. Key Takeaway: Engaging and contributing to the community can unlock opportunities for deeper business development through personal coaching. Setting Strategic Goals for 2025 Graham shares a framework for setting strategic goals for 2025 using the SMART methodology (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Repeatable, Time-bound). Key Takeaway: Focus on 1-3 key goals for each area of your business, then work backwards to develop tactics that will move the needle. Avoid getting caught up in tactical noise. Sports Moment Graham shares his excitement about his Washington Commanders making the playoffs, and David (with his Tampa Bay background) provides a humorous take on sports fandom. Useful Links: Join The Exchange: skool.com/exchange Webinar Registration (January 23rd, 12 PM ET): Register here Tune in for more valuable content like this each month on the Model FA Podcast! Connect with Dan: Website: https://www.fa.exchange Email: dallison@bchlife.com Connect with Graham: Website: https://www.fa.exchange Email: graham@modelfa.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theonlinemarketer/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode of the ModelFA Podcast, David DeCelle is rejoined by Kristin Harad, a business and marketing coach for RIA leaders and independent financial advisors. Kristin shares tactical advice on content creation, leveraging LinkedIn, improving prospect follow-up, and enhancing client engagement to drive referrals. Key Moments: [1:37] Kristin emphasizes the importance of content marketing as the foundation of an advisor's marketing plan. [2:55] Kristin and David discuss the various content mediums advisors can utilize and the importance of finding a sustainable approach. [6:12] Kristin provides tips on optimizing a LinkedIn profile, including the headshot, background photo, and headline. [15:45] David and Kristin explore strategies for effective prospect follow-up, including providing value-added content and using specific language to encourage responses. [33:39] Kristin recommends the book "All It Takes Is a Goal" by John Acuff and shares how it has impacted her approach to goal-setting. Be sure to subscribe to the ModelFA Podcast for more insights and strategies to help grow your financial planning practice. Connect with Kristin: Website: https://fulladvisorcoaching.com Email: kristin@kristinharad.com LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/kristinharad About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode we are joined by Gerry Spitzer, a founding partner of Questor Capital Partners. Gerry shares his career journey from Binghamton University to Price Waterhouse, Merrill Lynch, UBS, and finally to independence. He discusses the benefits and challenges of going independent, emphasizing the importance of due diligence and choosing the right platform. Gerry highlights the value of the Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) designation and the success of their team, which now manages $875 million in assets. They also explore the complexities of helping business owners plan for life after their companies, including succession planning and leveraging ESOPs. In this episode: 0:01:10 Gerry Spitzer's career journey - Started in accounting, moved to computer sales, then joined Merrill Lynch training program despite high failure rate. Formed a long-term partnership with a colleague from the training program. 0:04:49 Transitioning to independence - Discussed benefits and challenges of working at large brokerages vs. the independent space. Emphasized the importance of due diligence when choosing an independent platform. 0:13:14 Building a team and client base - Described current business with 7 team members and $875M in assets. Serve a mix of clients including business owners, corporate executives, and those inheriting wealth. 0:15:26 Challenges and opportunities in exit planning - Highlighted importance of succession planning for business owners. Shared examples of different exit planning approaches like ESOP transactions. 0:25:23 Navigating the transition process - Discussed resistance from business owners and strategies to overcome it, including building a strong professional team. 0:35:39 Impact of exit planning on clients - Emphasized the referrals and positive outcomes from successful exit planning engagements. Importance of educating centers of influence. 0:39:11 Final thoughts and future goals - Excited about the independent space and opportunities to continue serving high-quality clients. Connect with Gerry: Website: www.questarcap.com Email: gerry@questarcap.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-spitzer-cpwa%C2%AE-cepa%C2%AE-2472895/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode of the ModelFA podcast, host David DeCelle sits down with Ritik Malhotra, the founder and CEO of Savvy Wealth. Ritik shares his impressive entrepreneurial journey, from building internet businesses as a teenager to founding successful startups in cloud storage and fintech. The conversation digs into Ritik's inspiration behind starting Savvy Wealth - his experience working with financial advisors and identifying the industry's need for modernization and technology-driven solutions. Ritik explains how Savvy Wealth's purpose-built AI-powered platform is empowering advisors to increase efficiency, scale their businesses, and spend more time focused on client relationships. Key insights from the discussion include: How AI is currently impacting the financial advisory industry, from automating compliance and marketing tasks to freeing up advisor time Examples of advisors seeing 50% time savings on quarterly reviews and 80% reductions in content creation time Ritik's emphasis on using AI to augment advisors, not replace them, and the importance of the human advisor-client relationship Savvy Wealth's approach to constantly gathering feedback from advisors to improve their platform and address pain points Ritik also shares the influential book "Founders at Work" by Jessica Livingston, which inspired him in his entrepreneurial journey. This episode provides valuable insights for financial advisors looking to leverage technology and AI to enhance their practices and better serve their clients. Be sure to visit Savvy Wealth's website and follow them on LinkedIn to learn more about their innovative solutions. Connect with Ritik: Website: https://www.savvywealth.com Email: ritik@savvywealth.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritikmalhotra/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
What does a pilot's license at 16, a career in journalism, and a passion for financial advisor marketing have in common? They're all part of Jonathan Musgrave's remarkable journey. In this episode of The Model FA Podcast, Jonathan, founder and CEO of Steep Digital Marketing, opens up about his unconventional career path and how it shaped his approach to helping financial advisors thrive. Check out these key moments: 0:01:25 - Jonathan describes his goal out of college as becoming "unemployable" 0:02:25 - Early ambition to become a pilot and get his pilot's license at age 16 0:03:25 - Jonathan shifts to journalism after the pilot market becomes flooded post-9/11 0:04:25 - First job out of college was at a wholesale company as their marketing director 0:07:25 - His transition from print to digital marketing and starting Steep Digital in 2017 0:10:25 - Challenges and lessons learned from his wholesale business experience 0:14:25 - How COVID-19 led to a shift from live events to webinars for Steep Digital 0:19:25 - The "Psychology of Retirement" film and its success in attracting audiences 0:27:25 - Effective call to action used at the film events 0:34:25 - Impact of Cameron Herold's book "Vivid Vision" on his approach to leadership and vision setting 0:41:25 - Jonathan provides information on how to connect with Steep Digital and get a free copy of the film Connect with Jonathan: Website: https://www.steepdigital.com Email: jonathan@steepdigital.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/steep-digital-marketing About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode, Christopher Tan, CEO of Provident, Southeast Asia's first and Singapore's sole fee-only comprehensive wealth advisory firm, shares his journey from a humble background to becoming a financial advisor. He tells the story of how he transitioned from engineering to the army, then to pharmaceutical sales and eventually to financial services. Despite initial industry resistance, Provident has grown to manage over $1 billion for 900 households, with a team of 55. Tan emphasized the importance of aligning financial advice with clients' life goals and credited the "hedgehog concept" from Jim Collins' "Good to Great" for guiding Provident's strategy. Check out these key moments: 0:02:06 Christopher Tan introduces himself as the CEO of Provident, Southeast Asia's first and Singapore's sole fee-only comprehensive wealth advisory firm. 0:07:13 Christopher discusses how his time in the army instilled confidence, discipline, and a sense of pride in his work that he carried into his business career. 0:14:31 He shares how a client's feedback made him realize he was selling products rather than providing true financial planning advice, leading him to leave the insurance industry. 0:22:42 Christopher recounts the initial industry backlash and personal attacks he faced when launching Provident's fee-only model, including threatening letters. 0:40:02 Christopher emphasizes Provident's focus on helping clients achieve their life goals, not just managing their money, as a key driver of the firm's success. 0:51:40 Christopher explains how the "hedgehog concept" from the book "Good to Great" has shaped Provident's corporate strategy and mission. Connect with Christopher: Website: https://www.providend.com Email: chris_tan@providend.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-tan-19336a/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this recap episode, Amber shares highlights of a heated debate about Bitcoin's place in financial advising and an insightful exploration of value add strategies during surge periods. Monday's episode featured a face-off between Matt and guest Isaiah Douglass from Swan Bitcoin, moderated by David Decelle from Model FA. The debate centered on Bitcoin's role in investment portfolios, with Matt expressing skepticism about its utility beyond gambling and criminal activity. In contrast, Isaiah passionately argued for Bitcoin's potential as a transformative technology in human history. Thursday's encore episode featured Jamie's insights on implementing value adds during surge periods and optimizing post-surge activities. Jamie stressed the importance of planning value adds a year in advance, rotating them every few years to accommodate changing client needs. Post-surge activities include thorough debriefs, analyzing trends in client questions, and fostering team collaboration. Resources in today's episode: - Episode Website - The Bitcoin Debate: Risks and Benefits with Guests Isaiah Douglass and David DeCelle [Episode 280] - Encore Episode: Managing Value Adds In Surge
Get ready for an eye-opening debate on the world of cryptocurrency! In this conversation, Matthew Jarvis faces off with Isaiah Douglass from Swan Bitcoin, moderated by Model FA's David DeCelle. Together, they unpack the complex and often controversial topic of Bitcoin and its potential impact on financial advisors. The conversation heats up as Matt's skepticism collides with Isaiah's enthusiasm for Bitcoin's possibilities. Is it a revolutionary financial tool or an overhyped digital asset? They explore Bitcoin's various roles - from a store of value to a medium of exchange - and its potential to shake up the financial sector. But it's not all theoretical discussion. The debate tackles real-world challenges head-on, including the looming specter of government regulations and how they might shape Bitcoin's future. The Bitcoin Debate: Risks and Benefits with Guests Isaiah Douglass and David DeCelle [Episode 280] Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Isaiah Douglass: Website | LinkedIn - David DeCelle: Website | LinkedIn
In this episode of the Model FA Podcast, David DeCelle sits down with Abby Salameh, Chief Growth Officer at RFG Advisory. Abby shares her fascinating career journey, from starting in institutional sales at Sanford Bernstein to launching the first financial advisor newspaper, Investment News. Abby discusses her transition into growing large RIA firms like Fusion Advisor Network and Hightower Advisors, and the key lessons she's learned about advisor growth and operational efficiency. Check out these key moments: 0:06:35 Abby's early career path and how she "happenstanced" into financial services 0:12:35 Abby's move from publishing into the custodial side at TD Waterhouse 0:15:35 Abby's experience growing Fusion Advisor Network, Private Advisor Group, and Hightower 0:24:04 Abby's approach to helping advisors identify where they spend their time and energy 0:31:07 Abby's focus on culture and selectivity in who RFG brings onto their platform 0:36:32 How RFG balances automated content with custom, advisor-branded content This episode is full of insights for any financial advisor looking to grow their practice in a sustainable way. Tune in to hear Abby's unique perspective from her diverse background in the industry. Connect with Abby: Website: https://www.rfgadvisory.com Email: asalameh@rfgadvisory.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbysalameh/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Exchange on Skool.com to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode of the ModelFA podcast, host David its down with Craig Robson, the Founding Principal and Managing Director of Regent Peak Wealth Advisors. Craig shares his fascinating journey from a 25-year career at Merrill Lynch to launching his own independent RIA firm, Regent Peak Wealth Advisors. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to the independent space, the firm's unique approach to client engagement, and the importance of building a strong culture and team. In this episode: 0:01:20 Craig's experience at Merrill Lynch and the benefits of larger firms for training new advisors 0:04:30 The founding of Regent Peak Wealth Advisors and the firm's focus on serving wealth creators 0:10:51 The importance of having a resource strategy and leveraging external partners in the early stages 0:15:04 Regent Peak's growth strategy, including the consulting agreement model and proactive marketing efforts 0:27:34 The significance of the "10,000 hours" concept and the importance of focusing on core competencies 0:53:28 Craig's recommended book, "Outliers" by Malcolm Gladwell, and the impact it has had on his perspective Connect with Craig: Website: https://www.regentpeakwealth.com Email: crobson@regentpeakwealth.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/regent-peak-wealth-advisors/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
On this special episode, Graham Gardner hosts the podcast and interviews David DeCelle and Dan Allison to talk strategies for advisors to grow their practices in 2024. They emphasize the importance of identifying one's strengths and niches, leveraging technology for automation, and outsourcing non-core tasks. They advise on creating personalized content to build authority and maintain client relationships. The conversation highlights the need for intentional marketing, such as scheduling follow-up meetings and providing value-added content to prospects and COIs. They stress the importance of simplicity in communication and the value of long-term, consistent efforts over quick fixes. Join the most connected place for advisors online. Check out the Exchange and visit FA.Exchange In this episode: Identify strengths to automate, delegate and hire for weaknesses Scheduling natural follow-up meetings with prospects The art of personalized monthly content for prospects Gathering client feedback, adjust events and communications Connect with Dan: Website: https://www.fa.exchange Email: dallison@bchlife.com Connect with Graham: Website: https://www.fa.exchange Email: graham@modelfa.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theonlinemarketer/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode I am joined by John O'Connell, CEO of the Oasis Group to discuss ownership, data security, and predictive analytics for wealth managers. He emphasized the importance of relatable technology communication and shared real-life case studies, such as integrating technology stacks and enhancing efficiency. John highlighted the significance of data warehouses and data lakes, explaining their roles in storing and analyzing data. He also discussed AI's potential to augment, not replace, advisors, recommending prompt engineering and note-taking AI tools. John recommended "How to Win Friends and Influence People" and "The Magic of Thinking Big" for building relationships and business success. This week on The Model FA Podcast: 0:00:07 - The role of a CEO is to invest in the business and ensure it remains an ongoing concern. 0:00:28 - Introduction of John O'Connell, founder and CEO of the Oasis Group. 0:01:47 - Oasis Group's four main services: data capture, data security, data ownership, and predictive analytics. 0:04:10 - John O'Connell's background, starting as a programmer at Merrill Lynch and transitioning to sales and consulting roles. 0:07:38 - Importance of making technology relatable to non-technical advisors. 0:20:26 - Considerations for advisors regarding data warehouses and data lakes. 0:30:15 - Practical applications of AI in financial services, including note-taking and prompt engineering. 0:44:45 - Book recommendations: "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie and "The Magic of Thinking Big" by David Schwartz. 0:51:27 - Closing remarks and information about The Oasis Group's resources. Connect with John: Website: https://www.theoasisgrp.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnokoconnell/ Email: john@theoasisgrp.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
Today we welcome the return of Michael Hannah, a successful financial advisor and co-founder of Azura Wealth Advisors, to discuss his journey from trading derivatives to wealth management. He emphasized the importance of treating clients' money as if it were his own and building long-term relationships through empathy and expertise. Michael shared strategies for engaging busy clients, such as consistent follow-ups and unique experiences like hosting a private sushi chef at home. He highlighted the value of positioning clients as the heroes of their financial journey while advisors act as guides. Michael also discussed the significance of sharing personal interests and experiences to deepen client relationships. This week on The Model FA Podcast: 0:00:07 - Michael Hanna joins us to Discuss the importance of handling clients' finances with care and expertise to build long-standing relationships. 0:01:21 - Background, including initial experience in futures and options trading, and transition into private wealth management and financial planning. 0:05:07 - Treating clients' money as if it were your own, and the importance of empathy in financial planning. 0:07:08 - The challenge of separating work life from personal life and the importance of being emotionally available for family. 0:09:31 - A mentor's advice on the importance of shutting off work at the end of the day to avoid burnout. 0:11:31 - Helping clients save enough to ensure a brighter financial future and the ability to enjoy retirement. 0:14:35 - Positioning the advisor as a guide, rather than a hero, in the client's financial journey. 0:18:01 - Strategies for helping busy clients prioritize financial planning, including consistency, persistence, and understanding their priorities. 0:27:29 - Michael shares the example of hosting a private sushi chef at his home for clients, which deepened their connection and led to new opportunities. 0:35:58 - The broader impact of financial planning on clients' lives and goals, and the importance of helping them achieve financial freedom. 0:37:35 - Power of shared experiences in building strong client relationships. Connect with Michael: Website: https://www.azurawealth.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelwhanna Email: mhanna@azurawealth.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode of the ModelFA Podcast, David sits down with Stevyn Guinnip, a health expert for financial advisors. They discuss the importance of prioritizing health and wellness in achieving overall success, and how advisors can balance their professional and personal lives. Stevyn shares her personal journey and the lessons she's learned about the long-term impact of stress, sleep, and nutrition on health and well-being. The conversation also covers the benefits of proactive healthcare, the impact of personal health on professional success, and simple habits that can lead to better health. Listeners will walk away with actionable tips and strategies to improve their own health and wellness, and ultimately, their overall quality of life. This week on The Model FA Podcast: 0:00 - 1:24: Introduction to the episode and guest Stevyn Guinnip 1:24 - 2:01: Stevyn's background and connection to the financial industry 2:01 - 3:49: Discussion on the different definitions of success and the importance of balancing business, health, family, and personal well-being 3:49 - 8:47: Stevyn's personal journey and the pivotal moment when her father turned down a promotion to prioritize his family and health 8:47 - 15:36: Stevyn's experience with a health crisis and the lessons she learned about the long-term impact of stress, sleep, and nutrition on health and well-being 15:36 - 21:28: The importance of proactive healthcare, the impact of personal health on professional success, and the gradual decline in men's testosterone levels 21:28 - 26:53: Simple habits for better health, including drinking water, walking, and weight training, and the benefits of incorporating these habits into daily routines 26:53 - 32:07: The power of saying "yes" and starting small, and the recommendation of the book "Outlive" by Dr. Peter Attia 32:07 - 37:12: Stevyn's upcoming book "How To Grow Wealthy" and the importance of prevention and self-care in achieving overall success Connect with Stevyn: Website: www.growwellthy.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevyn-guinnip/ Email: stevyn@growwellthy.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode of the Model FA Podcast, Tammy Lee joins David to discuss how she helps financial advisors scale their businesses as a fractional COO. Through her work, Tammy acts as the operations expert so advisors don't have to be. She rolls up her sleeves to get into the weeds with their staff. Tammy focuses on developing people and building capacity. She works closely with teams to streamline processes and custodian relationships. By reallocating team members' time based on their strengths, Tammy helps firms increase engagement and productivity. She shares how coaching junior advisors is important for their career progression. Tammy also ensures a smooth transition when she finishes a project by finding a replacement. This episode provides insight into Tammy's fractional COO services and how she helps advisors solve operational problems. You'll learn about the impact she makes unlocking hidden potential in workplaces. If you want to scale your RIA more efficiently, don't miss this look inside Tammy's consulting approach. This week on The Model FA Podcast: 0:00:00 Introduction 0:01:30 Tammy Lee's background and journey to becoming a financial advisor 0:06:30 Starting her consulting business to help other advisors scale their businesses 0:11:03 How Tammy helps firms as an operations expert 0:13:29 Common problems Tammy encounters in firms 0:15:35 Empowering advisors and CEOs through coaching 0:17:30 Unlocking hidden potential with Adam Grant's book 0:19:58 Transitioning out of firms to help more people 0:21:34 Book recommendation: Hidden Potential by Adam Grant 0:23:06 Ensuring a smooth transition when leaving firms 0:26:02 Importance of coaching and developing junior advisors 0:28:45 Goal of helping as many firms as possible Connect with Tammy: Website: https://www.riasie.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammy-lee-cfp%C2%AE-27b4432/ Email: tammy@riasie.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
David is joined by Eric Stein to discuss the role of fractional CMOs in supporting financial advisors, and explore the differences between fractional CIO offerings and TAMP solutions. Eric highlights the importance of having a dedicated marketing professional to help advisors navigate the ever-changing marketing landscape. This episode emphasizes the importance of customized investment solutions and outsourcing investment management for financial advisors, highlighting the advantages of adding depth to a firm, providing more resources, and increasing client confidence. This week on The Model FA Podcast: Eric Stein's career path from college to asset management firm. Career paths, subway experiences, and meeting business partner Mario Nardone. Customized investment solutions for financial advisors. Outsourcing investment management to a third-party CIO. Investment management for smaller firms. CMO and OSA roles for financial advisors. Connect with Eric: Website: https://www.eastbayis.com Email: eric@eastbayis.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
Strap in Model FA's, this is a powerful episode! Efficiency savant Libby Greiwe joins David to discuss productivity strategies for busy financial advisors. Libby shares tips for creating standard operating procedures, managing time through model weeks, and balancing business ownership with family responsibilities. She shares practical techniques for running advisory practices more efficiently while maintaining a sustainable work-life balance. This episode provides actionable takeaways advisors can implement immediately to save time and streamline their business operations. This week on The Model FA Podcast: [0:00-5:00] Introduction and background on Libby's journey from engineering to financial planning and building an efficient practice model. [5:00-11:25] Discussion on balancing time spent growing a business with the quality of clients and relationships. Debating the importance of initial exposure versus long-term sustainability. [11:25-18:00] Libby shares insights on balancing motherhood with business ownership, including assessing priorities and building structure for full presence in both roles. [18:00-23:50] Top challenges for advisors like lack of standard operating procedures and time management. Libby emphasizes the importance of process documentation. [23:50-28:30] Personalized productivity strategies including compartmentalizing days, avoiding distractions, and customizing schedules over time. [28:30-34:10] Tips for creating margin in schedules, dedicating time to strategic thinking as a business owner instead of just working in the business. [34:10-41:00] Importance of templatizing tasks to avoid duplication of work and examples of applying this to emails. [41:00-46:45] Discussion of book "Built to Sell" and applying lessons to productize services for scalability and an exit strategy. Connect with Libby: Website: https://www.theefficientadvisor.com/ Email: efficientadvisor@gmail.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In episode 152 of the Model FA Podcast, David is joined by Nick Meyer and Nate Hoskin to discuss content marketing and brand sponsorships in the financial services industry. They share their experience creating educational content on TikTok and Instagram, emphasizing the importance of long-form content and chopping it up for social media use. This episode focuses on their experiences in leveraging social media platforms to build their personal brands and businesses, and share their approaches to creating valuable content and optimizing social media strategies for financial advisors, including compliance, brand deals, virtual networking, and high-quality content. This week on The Model FA Podcast: 00:00 - Transitioning from financial advisors to content creators and insights on compliance and brand partnerships. 36:11 - Strategies for content creation such as podcasting vs short videos and batch recording. 46:51 - Building a financial advisor practice during COVID through social media and video content. 1:02:36 - Optimizing social media campaigns through educational content targeting ideal clients. 1:10:16 - Tips for scripting, filming, and editing short videos authentically for different platforms. 1:28:22 - Using a satisfaction guarantee in financial planning to improve services. Connect with Nick: Website: https://n2contentmarketing.com Email: nick@n2contentmarketing.com Connect with Nate: Website: https://n2contentmarketing.com Email: nate@n2contentmarketing.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In the latest episode of the Model FA Podcast, Trevor Scotto shares how he grew his financial planning firm from $30M to $500M AUM through strategic mergers and acquisitions. He details leveraging personal connections to partner with a tax practice, and how adopting technology helped convert those clients. Trevor also reflects on finding purpose and work-life balance after his father's cancer diagnosis. In this interview, he discusses integrating tax planning into comprehensive client services and applying negotiation skills from Chris Voss's MasterClass to grow his business. This week on The Model FA Podcast: 00:00 Welcome to the Mic: Trevor Scotto 02:15 Unpacking Trevor's Early Career and Inspirations 04:30 Striking the Perfect Balance: Work and Family Life 06:30 Entrepreneurial Spirit: The Genesis of Trevor's Firm 08:15 Networking Mastery: Connecting with Titans of the Industry 10:15 The Search for the Ideal Tax Practice Partner 12:30 The Art of the Deal: Navigating a Successful Merger 14:30 Scaling from $160M to $500M in AUM 16:30 Tax Planning: A Critical Tool for Wealth Maximization 18:30 Breaking New Ground with Schwab's Platform Integration 20:30 Secrets to Sustaining Strong Client Relationships 22:30 Trevor's Top Book Picks for Success and Inspiration Connect with Trevor: Website: https://www.ffgwealth.com Email: tscotto@ffgwealth.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In episode 150 of the Model FA Podcast, Kristin Harad joins David to discuss the challenges of scaling second-generation advisory firms, emphasizing the importance of regularly assessing and updating business strategies. They also highlighted the need to connect advisors with service providers, embrace an abundance mindset, and document and coach the next generation to replicate success. In another conversation segment, David and Kristin discuss marketing strategies for financial advisors, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach that includes various tactics to build a strong brand and attract potential clients. They also highlight the need to focus on long-term growth, prioritize sustainability, and continuously improve marketing strategies. Finally, Kristin and David discussed the paradox of choice in the business advice industry and its impact on decision-making, emphasizing the importance of simplifying marketing strategies by eliminating choice and focusing on a few key areas. This week on The Model FA Podcast: 0:00:00 Introduction - David welcomes Kristin Harad 0:02:06 Background - Kristin shares journey in finance industry 0:09:44 Advisor needs - Top issues clients seek help with clarity 0:11:06 Second generation - Challenges for new leadership 0:13:32 Marketing budget - How to set and track spending 0:16:45 Client gesture story - Thoughtful gift builds connection 0:21:46 Consistency importance - Strategies require patience over time 0:25:30 Simplify choices book - Focus on few key efforts 0:31:10 Relationships grow business - Podcast leads to referrals 0:35:15 Commit fully marketing - Give strategies time for results Connect with Kristin: Website: https://fulladvisorcoaching.com Email: kristin@kristinharad.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
David interviews Tyson Ray, the CEO of Form Wealth Advisors, about his journey in financial planning and his book The Total Relationship. Tyson shares how he started investing at a young age and bought his first firm at age 24. He emphasizes the importance of understanding clients' lives beyond finances through the "total relationship" approach. Tyson discusses implementing life plans, wealth plans, and care plans for each client. He also stresses the value of building trust through empathy and personalized service over traditional sales tactics. This week on The Model FA Podcast: (0:02) Wealth management and providing meaningful value with Tyson Ray. (1:15) Entrepreneurship, investing, and personal growth. (5:53) Estate planning and prioritizing clients' interests. (11:26) Building a team for a successful financial planning business. (18:20) Finding the right people for a business venture. (20:13) Financial planning, coaching, and client service. (24:27) Building client relationships through empathy and personal connections. (29:29) Personalized financial planning and branding. (35:03) Financial planning and life goals with an advisor. (40:28) Financial planning, funding, and monitoring for clients. (45:30) Branding, marketing, and idolatry in financial planning. (52:27) The value of a relationship book and leaving reviews. Connect with Tyson: Website: https://www.totalrelationship.com Email: tyson.ray@formwealth.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm. Securities through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA / SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. FORM Wealth Advisors is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Raymond James and its advisors do not provide tax advice. Podcast guest is Tyson Ray, CEO, Founding Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor at FORM Wealth Advisors. FORM Wealth Advisors is located at 431 Geneva National Ave S, Lake Geneva, WI, 53147; 262-686-3005.
In this episode Eric Negron shares his journey as an entrepreneur and advisor in the industry. He discusses how he structures his time and manages multiple businesses. Eric emphasizes the importance of mindset, character, and activity in achieving success. He recommends collaboration over competition and building a supportive board of mentors. Eric encourages listeners to ask for help and contribute value to others on their personal development journey. “Ask for help. There's always a book you could read. Somebody that you can talk to and in today's day and age, a YouTube video you could watch or podcast you could listen to. So please ask for help." - Eric Negron This week on The Model FA Podcast: Entrepreneurship, ADHD, and mentorship in the advisor space. (0:10) Building a successful financial services business and managing multiple entities. (4:03) Time management and empowering team members. (9:13) Work-life balance and efficient email management. (15:52) Developing a financial advisor's mindset, heart set, and skill set. (23:50) Business success and mindset. (28:34) The benefits of collaboration over competition in the financial industry. (36:31) Building relationships, mentorship, and personal growth. (40:15) Connect with Eric: Website: https://forefrontan.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericjnegron/ About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
In this episode we are joined by Joe Moss to discuss leveraging online communities. Joe enjoys using the Skool platform to create simple yet effective communities for advisors. David suggests advisors could offer community-based courses to complement subscription services. Joe sees potential for advisors to work with multiple clients at once in a group setting. Overall, their discussion focuses on innovative ways for advisors to grow their businesses through community building. “With a traditional funnel, you've got the top of the funnel, middle of funnel, bottom of funnel, and then the client out the bottom. But a group funnel is where all of your different platforms, all of the ways you're doing marketing, you funnel people towards a free community.” - Joe Moss This week on The Model FA Podcast: Building a community for financial advisors and showcasing top tech platforms. (0:10) Leveraging a subscription model and downselling for financial advisors. (14:57) Using LinkedIn data to connect with industry peers and gain exposure. (21:05) Building an audience and network. (26:55) Tim Ferriss' book "Tribe of Mentors" and its insights on success and goal-setting. (34:21) Connect with Joe: Website: https://www.skool.com/proadvisorsuite Email: joe@proadvisorsuite.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
Arielle Minicozzi-Figueroa is the founder and co-owner of Sphynx Automation, a virtual CTO firm that helps financial advisors gain efficiency and maximize their client impact using technology and automation. In addition to her work with Sphynx, Arielle is a partner and financial planner at Modern Money Advisor, where she focuses on working with young, female professionals. Arielle resides in sunny Arizona with her husband (and business partner) Mark Figueroa, and their cat (the namesake of Sphynx), Nigel. Arielle Minicozzi joins us to discuss how her company Sphynx Automation helps financial advisors automate tasks like onboarding new clients and gathering documentation. Automating routine work frees up time for advisors to focus on building relationships. Arielle discusses tools like AI transcription, Zapier automations, and pre-populating forms. Compliance considerations with AI were raised. David offered coaching and free automations through Sphynx for advisors who contact him. Overall the discussion focused on leveraging technology to improve efficiency and client experiences. “There are some things that a human just does better than a computer. But there are a lot of things, data entry for example, that computers will do better and faster than a human.” - Arielle Minicozzi This week on The Model FA Podcast: Leveraging technology for financial advisors with Ariel Mina. (0:10) Automating business tasks for financial advisors. (5:11) Automation's impact on business operations and employee roles. (10:21) Automation in financial planning and its impact on time and energy. (13:36) Improving client experience and onboarding process. (20:59) Streamlining onboarding process for financial planning clients. (25:04) AI integration in financial advisor practices. (30:25) AI note-taking, compliance, and time management in business meetings. (35:38) Automation and coaching for financial advisors. (44:53) Connect with Arielle: Website: https://www.sphynxautomation.com Email: team@sphynxautomation.com Shout out to YCharts! Download your copy of their ETF research and don't forget, get 15% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription when you start your free YCharts trial and tell them I sent you (new customers only). White Paper Landing Page: https://go.ycharts.com/the-best-performing-etfs-of-2023?utm_source=Model+FA About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
Arielle Minicozzi-Figueroa is the founder and co-owner of Sphynx Automation, a virtual CTO firm that helps financial advisors gain efficiency and maximize their client impact using technology and automation. In addition to her work with Sphynx, Arielle is a partner and financial planner at Modern Money Advisor, where she focuses on working with young, female professionals. Arielle resides in sunny Arizona with her husband (and business partner) Mark Figueroa, and their cat (the namesake of Sphynx), Nigel. Arielle Minicozzi joins us to discuss how her company Sphynx Automation helps financial advisors automate tasks like onboarding new clients and gathering documentation. Automating routine work frees up time for advisors to focus on building relationships. Arielle discusses tools like AI transcription, Zapier automations, and pre-populating forms. Compliance considerations with AI were raised. David offered coaching and free automations through Sphynx for advisors who contact him. Overall the discussion focused on leveraging technology to improve efficiency and client experiences. “There are some things that a human just does better than a computer. But there are a lot of things, data entry for example, that computers will do better and faster than a human.” - Arielle Minicozzi This week on The Model FA Podcast: Leveraging technology for financial advisors with Ariel Mina. (0:10) Automating business tasks for financial advisors. (5:11) Automation's impact on business operations and employee roles. (10:21) Automation in financial planning and its impact on time and energy. (13:36) Improving client experience and onboarding process. (20:59) Streamlining onboarding process for financial planning clients. (25:04) AI integration in financial advisor practices. (30:25) AI note-taking, compliance, and time management in business meetings. (35:38) Automation and coaching for financial advisors. (44:53) Connect with Arielle: Website: https://www.sphynxautomation.com Email: team@sphynxautomation.com Shout out to YCharts! Download your copy of their ETF research and don't forget, get 15% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription when you start your free YCharts trial and tell them I sent you (new customers only). White Paper Landing Page: https://go.ycharts.com/the-best-performing-etfs-of-2023?utm_source=Model+FA About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
Eric Simonson is the CEO of Abundo and in charge of driving our mission of providing high-quality, conflict-free financial planning to everyone. In addition to managing the team, he works with a small but amazing group of clients and helps them work towards their financial and travel goals. Eric is a passionate foodie and enjoys meditation. He is also an avid traveler and loves exploring new destinations. Eric is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™. Eric Simonson joins us to share the story about starting his own firm, Abundo Wealth, after 12 years at another firm. He shares how in just 4 years, he grew his firm to over 650 clients through referrals and by providing affordable financial planning. Eric Discusses how he uses technology to scale while keeping costs low and providing a great client experience. Eric also shares how he helps clients maximize credit card rewards and travel benefits as part of their financial plans. “We really doubled our focus to figure out okay, how can tech support the adviser relationship and help us scale help us keep our costs low, to allow the advisors to really shine” - Eric Simonson This week on The Model FA Podcast: Starting a financial planning firm and scaling it quickly. Growing a financial planning business through client referrals and advisor partnerships. Marketing and referrals for a financial advisor. Financial planning subscription model and client retention. Client communication and value addition. Leveraging credit card points in financial planning. Leveraging technology and entrepreneurial spirit in financial planning. Client reviews, scaling, and focus with a financial planning firm. Career opportunities in wealth management. Connect with Eric: Website: https://www.abundowealth.com Email: Eric@abundowealth.com.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
MFA 144 - SN - Stop Living in Fear: 3 Ways Advisors Can Take Risks Without Failure with John Prendergast John Prendergast, Founder & CEO of Blueleaf and Co-host of the Augmented Advisor Podcast joins us for episode 144 of the Model FA Podcast! John Prendergast, founder and CEO of Blueleaf joins us to discuss how advisors can engage clients through 52 personalized touch points per year without being annoying. John explains how Blueleaf's technology helps automate interactions to free up time for human moments. We chat about striking a balance between service and experience models. John stresses facing fears like asking for feedback to innovate. David shares a story of getting 15 glowing reviews overnight. Throughout, they emphasize treating AI like an intern to enhance workflows without replacing human judgment. Overall, the episode provides insights into deepening client relationships through frequent personalized engagement. "I think you're creating an opportunity for a lot of small touchpoints, with your clients that start to educate them about their money, and the way it changes over time.” - John Prendergast This week on The Model FA Podcast: Introducing John Prendergast, founder and CEO fo Blueleaf Client engagement and AI in financial advising. The importance of experience in financial planning. Personalized financial updates and their impact on client trust. Personalized financial planning and automation. Personalizing client interactions for financial advisors. Client reviews and their impact on financial advisors. Overcoming fear and innovating in business and financial services. Taking bold actions, learning from failures, and deepening client relationships. AI use in financial advisor marketing and content generation. Storytelling and AI in advisor-client interactions. This episode is sponsored by our friends at YCharts. Save the date for January 25th because YCharts will be hosting a must-attend webinar covering economic forecasts, key industry shifts, and potential market drivers that financial advisors should be aware of in 2024. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, you'll leave this webinar with actionable strategies for leveraging YCharts tools to not only navigate but succeed in the changing market dynamics. Register now to secure your spot and get 15% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription when you start your free YCharts trial and tell them I sent you (new customers only).” Webinar Registration Link: https://ycharts.zoom.us/webinar/register/7917042231712/WN_92f-BawaS428Cs9TlHYBvg Connect with John: Website: https://www.blueleaf.com Email: john@blueleaf.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
Today we are joined by Kristen Luke, the President of Kaleido Creative Studio and Author of "Uncomparable: The Financial Advisor's Guide to Standing Out Through Niche Marketing". In this episode of the Model FA Podcast, we are joined by Kristen Luke to discuss effective marketing strategies for financial advisors. We emphasize the importance of finding a niche, understanding where clients spend their time, and creating content in multiple formats to meet client needs. Advisors are encouraged to start with one consistent marketing activity and build their expertise over time by regularly producing high-value content. We stress treating marketing as an ecosystem rather than a funnel, with the goal of becoming a trusted resource in one's industry niche. “I put less emphasis on social media than I think a lot of people do. It is a good way to keep your name out there once you're connected to people. But you know, if I wanted to bring in clients quickly, I would focus on, how do I leverage other people's networks to get in front of them?” - Kristen Luke This week on The Model FA Podcast: Marketing strategies for a specific niche. Marketing strategies for advisors with limited time. Content creation for financial advisors. Marketing strategies for financial advisors. Positioning oneself as an expert in a niche through content creation and marketing strategies. Connect with Kristen: Website: https://onniche.com/ Email: kristen@kaleidocreative.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
Michael Lecours, CFP® is a Co-Founder of fpPathfinder. He is also a financial advisor and planner at the Wealth Strategies Team. Michael began his career in advertising where he worked to develop marketing strategies for insurance companies, banks, credit unions, RIAs and hedge funds. Now, he leverages his background in advertising to distill complex financial planning concepts into straightforward strategies, apply behavioral finance concepts to the planning process and injects a disciplined approach to all facets of the client experience. In this episode of the Model FA Podcast, Michael Lecours joins us to discuss common client engagement challenges. We explore how to simplify the advice delivery process and keep clients engaged over time through check-ins. Michael describes how FP Pathfinder started as sketches he created and grew into a business helping thousands of advisors. Advisors learn different ways to segment clients and focus on one task at a time to avoid overwhelming them. Interactive checklists now allow advisors to gather client information digitally before meetings to better address their needs. This discussion provides advisors with ideas on maintaining relationships and continuously demonstrating value. "It's one thing to come up with the financial plan. But how do you deliver the plan? How do you get that client to not just take the recommendation and agree to it, but then follow through and actually do it?" - Michael Lecours This week on The Model FA Podcast: Engaging clients through FP Pathfinder. Creating a flowchart for financial advisors to streamline client conversations. Balancing financial planning and business growth. Improving client engagement in financial planning through four key areas. Simplifying financial planning for clients. Personalized financial planning and client engagement. Adding value to low-maintenance clients in financial planning. Using checklists for client reviews in financial planning. Creating financial planning checklists and flowcharts for various audiences. Business planning and book recommendations. The importance of think time for financial advisors. This episode is sponsored by our friends at YCharts. YCharts has a special gift for you just in time for the holiday season – their final research piece of the year, "The Top 23 Charts of 2023”! Dive into a curated slide deck that captures the essence of the year gone by – from the highs to the lows that defined the financial landscape. With featured market and economic storylines and key visuals from industry thought leaders, consider this comprehensive tool as your ticket to elevating your year-end communication with clients and prospects. Make an impact and showcase your value by clicking the link in the show notes to secure a copy of "The Top 23 Charts of 2023" deck. Remember, get 15% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription when you start your free YCharts trial and tell them I sent you (new customers only). Link: https://go.ycharts.com/the-top-23-charts-of-2023?utm_source=Model+FA Connect with Michael: Website: https://fppathfinder.com/ Email: mike@fpPathfinder.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
Meet Josh Kosnick - provider, recruiter, teacher and leader. He is the Type-A alpha male that loves to compete, drink bourbon and smoke cigars; however, Josh never shies away from sharing his vulnerable side. He's passionate about men's mental health – healing, talking about emotions, supporting each other – and will continue to advocate for this. His faith drives him to persevere through pain and suffering because he knows, on the other side of those struggles is everything he has dreamed of and everything he was born to be. Josh Kosnick shares how he prioritizes his schedule like a college athlete to lead a well-rounded life through fitness, relationships, mind, and soul. He discusses implementing EOS to scale his firm and how vulnerability is the ultimate display of strength for men. Josh also tells the story of dropping out of college and becoming a financial advisor after getting a call from his future mentor while working at Best Buy. He shares information about his new mastermind focused on breaking down walls between advisors and creating collaboration in the industry. “You just hit on exactly why I always tried to recruit as many college athletes as possible, or former college athletes, because they had to prioritize their days so much more than the regular student“- Josh Kosnick This week on The Model FA Podcast: Leadership, mental health, and personal growth. Vulnerability and masculinity. Leading a healthy lifestyle through fitness, relationships, mind, and body. Fitness journey and personal growth. Maintaining a well-rounded life while being a business owner and parent. Prioritizing fitness, relationships, mind, and body for a healthy lifestyle. Leadership and management in the financial services industry. Systems implementation in a business setting. Implementing EOS in businesses for growth and exit value. The impact of "Think and Grow Rich" and its chapters Career path, perseverance, and mentorship in the financial industry. Our Favorite Quotes: "I want to help others that I coached lead or influence or even in our conversation today, someone that I may never meet, is listening to you and I today, I want you to know, that being an alpha being vulnerability is the ultimate, the pinnacle of strength as a man." - Josh Kosnick "I flipped the mindset, I have to be physically fit, I have to be mentally fit to show up to be my best for my wife, for my kids, for everyone, I coach for everyone, I influence, for every business owner that I go in to help." - Josh Kosnick Connect with Josh: Website: https://www.joshkosnick.com Email: josh@joshkosnick.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
Tara Tussing Unverzagt grew up with one of the first CFPs but started her career as a computer programmer, project manager at a software company. She turned to financial planning when she got married and wanted to work from home to raise children (just like her mom had.) She started South Bay Financial Partners in 2014 after working in her mom's business for 20 years. South Bay Financial Partners serve a diverse range of individuals, couples, and multigenerational families who yearn for financial independence, peace of mind, and success. Prospects often don't know how to get started or find their next steps. SBFP's mission is to empower both individuals and families alike by helping them become knowledgeable, confident, and brave to level up and reach their goals. This episode featured Tara Tussing Unverzagt, a financial planner who incorporates financial therapy into her practice. She discussed how understanding clients' emotional relationships with money helps her better serve them. The conversation highlights Tara's background and how she came to focus on financial therapy. David and Tara also shared personal stories and examples of how examining underlying beliefs can transform clients' financial well-being. "We understand that money is emotional. From day one, we understand that a lot of financial planners are like, ‘I don't want to talk about that part, I just want to talk about the numbers.'” - Tara Tussing Unverzagt This week on The Model FA Podcast: Financial planning, bicycling, and personal experiences. Financial therapy and its role in personal finance. Using internal family systems for financial therapy. Client relationships, fees, and market volatility. Financial struggles and relationships with money. Financial literacy and personalized solutions. Financial well-being and relationships. Therapy books and their impact on personal growth. Sales training and marketing strategies. Our Favorite Quotes: “Well, there's also another saying that there's two kinds of bicyclists, those who have had accidents and those who will have accidents. There's no way to ride a bike without having accidents.” - Tara Tussing Unverzagt “Number one, my parents, they ended up getting divorced, and the variety of issues but what it boiled down to is, anytime they fought, it was over money, or because they were stressed about money, and they'd fight about something meaningless. Because that was like the boiling point, the tipping point. And seeing that made me stress about money.” - David DeCelle “ I used to think that vulnerability was weakness. Now I'm realizing no, you have to be friggin brave, to be vulnerable. And to put that out there. So be brave. And that's why in the intro, we tried to help people be brave and level up, be brave, have that conversation with your cohort.” - Tara Tussing Unverzagt "I said earlier that money issues often come from safety, which often comes from connection with other people." - Tara Tussing Unverzagt Connect with Tara: Interested in connecting with Tara? Click here: https://calendly.com/financial-coaching-team/podcast-priority-referral LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/south-bay-financial-partners/ Website: https://southbayfinancialpartners.com/ Email: tara@sbfinancialpartners.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
Michelle Atlas-Quinn, J.D. is the Vice President of RIA Operations for Advisor Law. She is an Attorney licensed by the Colorado Supreme Court to practice law (active registration). She earned her Juris Doctorate from University of Denver Sturm College of Law. Michelle formerly held FINRA licenses Series 7, 63, and 24 and former Colorado life and health insurance license. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from the University of Colorado. David and Michelle discuss the transition from working with a broker-dealer to becoming an independent registered investment advisor (RIA). Michelle shared her career journey which led her to founding the RIA division at Advisor Law. She discussed some of the benefits of being an RIA like lower fees, less regulatory oversight, and more freedom in marketing. However, she cautioned that as an independent advisor there is more responsibility to ensure compliance. Michelle provided tips on complying with regulations and working with a compliance partner like Advisor Law. Overall, the discussion focused on helping advisors understand the opportunities and responsibilities involved in making the shift to the RIA space. "The SEC Rule is, am I doing what's in the client's best interest? Am I being careful with their money and making decisions that I think are careful." - Michelle Atlas This week on The Model FA Podcast: Career journey and RIA services with Michelle Atlas. Transitioning from broker-dealer to RIA. Regulatory changes and compliance in the RIA space. Marketing in the financial industry with a focus on compliance. SEC compliance for financial advisors transitioning from broker-dealers to registered investment advisors. Our Favorite Quotes: "Anything that you collect a fee on, is Ria, anything you could collect a commission on, is a broker-dealer. And so you look at your book and you say, well, what else am I still collecting commissions on?" - Michelle Atlas “From a marketing standpoint, in the RIA space, it's just nice that you can market your business more in alignment with the way that businesses are marketed today.” - David DeCelle "So there are some challenges, but I think 85-90% of most people's books these days, if you look at them, are fee based, because they are using managed money." - Michelle Atlas "FINRA derives their jurisdiction from the SEC. So instead of having three regulators, and if you're doing insurance, maybe four, you're down to three." - Michelle Atlas Connect with Michelle: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleatlas/ Website: https://advisorlawllc.com/ Email: matlas@advisorlawyer.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.
Mark Willis, CFP® is a man on a mission to help you think differently about your money, your economy and your future. Mark is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, a three-time #1 Best Selling Author and the owner of Lake Growth Financial Services, a financial firm in Chicago, Illinois. As co-host of the Not Your Average Financial Podcast™, he shares some of his strategies for investing in real estate, paying for college without going broke, and creating an income in retirement you will not outlive. Mark works with people who want to grow their wealth in ways that are safe and predictable, to become their own source of financing, and create tax-free income in retirement. On episode 136 of the Model FA Podcast David and Mark emphasize the importance of treating oneself as a key investment and examine the one-size-fits-all approach of recommending generic investment options like target date funds to entrepreneurs. They discuss the pitfalls of "shiny object syndrome" as Mark introduces the idea of "iki-gai," a Japanese concept for finding one's reason for being, as a tool to align passion, skill, and market demand. “Conflict at its root is just unexpressed expectation. So go deep before you get into proposing and strategies and recommendations, figure out what their expectations are.” - Mark Willis This week on The Model FA Podcast: Mark's introduction. Strategies to get to seven figures. Mark's philosophy on target market and how to position yourself. Power of podcasting. Leveraging the power of content. How conflict can build relationships. Our Favorite Quotes: “Guesting on someone else's show is brain dead simple, because you just get on and you have a conversation with someone who loves to chat with you, and you hopefully enjoy chatting with him. The power there is, you're getting in front of your target audience, you're having a one on one long form discussion with people who might just do business with you.” - Mark Willis Connect with Mark: Twitter: https://twitter.com/LakeGrowth/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marklakegrowth/ Website: https://lakegrowth.com/ Email: thanks@lakegrowth.com Learn More About YCharts This episode is sponsored by our friends at YCharts. Exciting times at YCharts — they just announced their latest product enhancement called Proposals. YCharts Proposals is a game-changing capability, empowering wealth management professionals with the prowess to craft captivating narratives, effectively conveying their investment strategies that help win new business. But that's not all – mark your calendars for September 22nd because YCharts will be hosting a webinar to unveil Proposals and show off its full potential. You'll learn how to whip up reports that don't just highlight the value of your investment strategies but also cater to your clients' unique financial needs. Click the this link to register for YCharts' webinar if you want to learn more about Proposals, and get 15% off your initial subscription when you start your free YCharts trial (new customers only). Register: https://ycharts.zoom.us/webinar/register/5916933495668/WN_OD3x5xyzQ7qWTrtGDChLFA About the Model FA Podcast: The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle
Eric Brotman is the CEO of BFG Financial Advisors, President of Brotman Consulting Group, LLC, Host of "Don't Retire...Graduate!" podcast, and author of three books on personal finance including "Don't Retire...Graduate! - Building a Path to Financial Freedom and Retirement at Any Age" On episode 135 of the "MODEL FA PODCAST," the spotlight is on Eric, the CEO of BFG Financial Advisors and author of "Don't Retire Graduate." The episode delves deep into the crucial role of company culture, mission statements, and the power of advisory boards in shaping businesses. As the conversation progresses, Eric emphasizes the value of building authority and influence through authentic podcasting, robust networking, and mastermind groups. The episode further underscores the significance of early exit strategy planning, collaboration over competition in the financial industry, and the potential of strategic alliances. Wrapping up, Eric discusses the indispensable nature of reading, recommending seminal books that provide foundational knowledge for financial advisors. “I think it's incredibly important to be authentic. The key to podcasting is to be yourself, to be vulnerable, to be authentic and to be fallible. And then if you're relatable in that way people will seek you out.” - Eric Brotman This week on The Model FA Podcast: Culture Culture Culture Culture. How often should you review your mission statement? The importance of building authority and influence. Two paths to build influence. The power of being yourself. The importance of having a succession plan. The importance of having an exit strategy. Strategic alliances and how they work. The importance of having a reading list. Our Favorite Quotes: “One of the things I loved when I was an advisor is the culture of joint work. And being able to learn from other folks, either in my office or throughout the countr; people who had different specializations.” - David DeCelle “I believe in collaboration over competition, I think our industry is one that's has the benefit of radical abundance. There are so many opportunities, so many people and families and businesses need our help. There's a shortage of financial advisors and an even bigger shortage of good ones.” - Eric Brotman “Culture, culture, culture, if you add people to your organization, not just clients, but particularly employees, or other advisors, the Fit has to be really, really perfect.” - Eric Brotman Connect with Eric: Connect on Twitter Connect on LinkedIn Website: https://www.brotmanconsultinggroup.com Email: ebrotman@bfgfa.com About the Model FA Podcast The Model FA podcast is a show for fiduciary financial advisors. In each episode, our host David DeCelle sits down with industry experts, strategic thinkers, and advisors to explore what it takes to build a successful practice — and have an abundant life in the process. We believe in continuous learning, tactical advice, and strategies that work — no “gotchas” or BS. Join us to hear stories from successful financial advisors, get actionable ideas from experts, and re-discover your drive to build the practice of your dreams. Did you like this conversation? Then leave us a rating and a review in whatever podcast player you use. We would love your feedback, and your ratings help us reach more advisors with ideas for growing their practices, attracting great clients, and achieving a better quality of life. While you are there, feel free to share your ideas about future podcast guests or topics you'd love to see covered. Our Team: President of Model FA, David DeCelle If you like this podcast, you will love our community! Join the Model FA Community on Facebook to connect with like-minded advisors and share the day-to-day challenges and wins of running a growing financial services firm.