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Behind The Advisor

Behind The Advisor

412 episodes — Page 1 of 9

Ep #413: XYPN's 2025 Benchmarking Study Highlights LIVE

Alan Moore and Michael Kitces share nine years of XYPN benchmarking insights live from XYPN LIVE 2025. From year-one challenges to fee strategies, hiring, and the value of CFP® certification, this episode gives a candid, data-driven look at what works (and what doesn't) when growing a fee-only firm.

Oct 8, 202555 min

Ep #412: Scaling Smart: Building a High-Growth Firm for Entrepreneurs

In this episode of Behind the Advisor, David Flores Wilson shares how his firm grew 5X in five years—by focusing on entrepreneurs, building community, and keeping the human side of planning front and center. From creating simple systems to boosting visibility with media, David's story is full of practical takeaways you can apply in your own practice.

Sep 10, 202535 min

Ep #411: Growing Through Change: Building a Balanced Financial Practice

In this episode of Behind the Advisor, Dan Slagle of Fyooz Financial Planning shares how he and his wife, Natalie, grew their firm from 30 to 70+ households—while redesigning their work and life for balance. From parental leave to narrowing their client focus, Dan reveals why clarity, boundaries, and aligned values matter more than scale. Advisors will walk away with insights on setting fees, serving your niche, and building a practice that supports the life you want.

Aug 27, 202535 min

Ep 410Ep #410: Laying the Groundwork: How Financial Coaches Strengthen Advisory Relationships

In this episode of Behind the Advisor, we talk with Monica Scudieri, founder of Grab Your Slice, about how financial coaches can support advisors by helping clients build stability and confidence before entering a planning relationship. We cover the difference between coaching and advising, how partnerships can improve client outcomes, and why coaching is a powerful tool for clients in transition.

Aug 13, 202534 min

Ep #409: From Zero to Traction: Launching a Lean, Fast-Moving Firm

Ryan Johnson launched Hundred Financial Planning with no clients, limited experience, and a tough regulatory environment. In this episode, he shares how XYPN's Sapphire model helped him move fast, stay lean, and build a firm that truly fits his life and his clients'.

Jul 16, 202536 min

Ep #408: Coming Full Circle: Relaunching a Purpose-Driven Firm

Leaving entrepreneurship doesn't mean leaving the industry for good. In this episode, Nannette Kamien, founder of Inspiration Financial Planning, shares her journey of launching, pausing, and eventually relaunching her firm nearly a decade after first joining XYPN. She opens up about the challenges that led her to close her practice, the growth she experienced while working for others, and how that clarity helped her return with renewed purpose. Now focused on supporting women over 40 through life transitions, Nannette's story is a powerful reminder that career paths aren't always linear—and that sometimes stepping back is the first step forward.

Jul 2, 202536 min

Ep 407Ep #407: A Decade of Building XYPN from the Inside Out

In this special episode of Behind The Advisor, Alan Moore interviews Maddy Roche, XYPN's first employee and longtime podcast host, as she prepares to depart after nearly 11 years. From her start as the "Director of Getting Sh!t Done" to becoming an executive business coach, Maddy reflects on her journey with XYPN, discussing the challenges of growing with a company, the importance of sabbaticals, and her next chapter developing services for people without children at Child-Free Legacy. This bittersweet conversation offers valuable insights for advisors on team building, organizational growth, and embracing professional transitions with grace.

Apr 9, 202549 min

Ep 406Ep #406: Navigating the Transition: How XYPN Sapphire Simplifies Going Solo

Going independent doesn't mean doing it alone. In this episode, Brian Muller, founder of Momentous Wealth Advisors, shares his journey through the RIA transition and how XYPN Sapphire helped him navigate compliance, operations, and client transfers—without sacrificing his brand or autonomy. He opens up about building a lifestyle practice, overcoming challenges, and finding the right support to create the business (and life) he wanted.

Mar 26, 202534 min

Ep 405Ep #405: The Art of Client Onboarding: Creating Exceptional Experiences Through Automation

On this episode of Behind the Advisor, I'm thrilled to chat with Libby Greiwe, founder of The Efficient Advisor, about the power of a well-designed and automated client onboarding process. During our conversation, Libby breaks down her three-phase onboarding approach: the first 30 days focused on professionalism, days 30-60 on surprising and delighting clients, and days 60+ dedicated to "shocking and awing" clients. She shares practical examples from her own practice, including providing termination scripts for previous advisors, sending personalized thank-you notes, and conducting formal onboarding meetings. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/405

Mar 12, 202538 min

Ep 404Ep #404: Building a Purpose-Driven Practice in Three Months

XYPN Radio is excited to welcome Rob Brown, founder of Truest Fan Coaching, for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation. Rob is an expert coach for RIA owners, helping them uncover their purpose and build businesses that align with their deepest values and goals. In this episode, Rob dives into his process for guiding advisors to define both their business and life purposes. He shares strategies for overcoming burnout, the risks of operating without a clear purpose, and how to identify and break bad habits. Rob also discusses time audits and why hiring isn't always the solution advisors think it is. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/404

Jan 22, 202549 min

Ep 403Ep #403: Mastering Short-Form Video Marketing with Nate Hoskin and Nick Meyer

On this episode of XYPN Radio I'm thrilled to chat with Nate Hoskin and Nick Meyer, two CFP® professionals based in Denver and co-founders of the N2 Content Marketing Group. Together we unpack the power of short-form video marketing for advisors. We dive into the why and how of creating digestible, engaging videos that not only resonate with your audience but also rank well for maximum discoverability. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/403

Jan 8, 202551 min

Ep 402Ep #402: Work-Life Integration, Fulfillment, and Building Your Dream Firm with Kristin Harad

In this episode of XYPN Radio, we sit down with Kristin Harad—coach, former financial advisor, and marketing expert—for an inspiring conversation about personal and professional growth. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/402

Dec 11, 202448 min

Ep 401Ep #401: Mindfulness, Freedom, and a Fiduciary Driven Civilization with George Kinder and Lora Woodward

XYPN Radio is thrilled to welcome back George Kinder, founder of the Kinder Institute of Life Planning, and Lora Woodward, the Institute's COO, for an inspiring conversation. It's been a few years since they last joined us in 2020, and this time, we're diving into some truly transformative topics: mindfulness, freedom, and how to change our civilization—yes, we're going big and bold today. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/401

Nov 27, 202454 min

Ep 400Ep #400: XYPN's 2024 Benchmarking Study Highlights LIVE

What's the real trajectory of an RIA? How early should you start hiring, and is a niche worth it? Co-Founders Alan Moore and Michael Kitces hit the stage at XYPN LIVE 2024 to discuss insights from the seventh-annual Benchmarking Study on episode 400 of XYPN Radio. Each year, the study gathers information from XYPN member participants to get an accurate picture of how advisors are doing in their firms. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/400

Nov 13, 20241h 7m

Ep 399Ep #399: Redefining Success In Your Financial Planning Firm

In this episode of XYPN Radio, we welcome Brenna Baucum, founder of Collective Wealth Planning. Just 21 months after launching her firm in Salem, Oregon, Brenna has already reached significant milestones, with 21 clients and $21 million in assets under management. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/399

Oct 30, 202452 min

Ep 398Ep #398: Supporting Childfree Clients with Financial Planning and Beyond

In this episode of XYPN Radio, we sit down with Jay Zigmont, founder of Childfree Wealth®, and Bri Conn, the firm's Chief Experience Officer, to dive into the unique financial planning needs of childfree individuals. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/398

Oct 16, 202455 min

Ep 397Ep #397: Empowering Internationally Born Clients Through Financial Planning

In this episode, we sit down with Jane Mepham, CFP®, Founder and CEO of Elgon Financial Advisors, a fee-only firm based in Austin, Texas that specializes in serving foreign-born individuals. Originally from Kenya, Jane shares her journey of coming to the U.S. to study computer science and how a lack of cultural competence in financial advising inspired her to shift careers and launch her own firm. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/397

Oct 2, 202455 min

Ep 396Ep #396: Leading a Growing Advisory Firm with Nathan Donohue

In this episode of XYPN Radio, I chat with Nathan Donohue, co-founder and partner at Consilio Wealth Advisors, a fee-only firm based in Scottsdale, Arizona. Nathan shares his experience transitioning his team from a broker-dealer to an RIA and what it takes to successfully run a growing advisory firm today. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/396

Sep 18, 202450 min

Ep 395Ep #395: Attracting and Retaining Top Advisors with Caleb Brown

We dive deep into the entrepreneurial journey, discussing the realities of training and mentoring talent, and the inevitable challenge of team members moving on. We explore how perfecting your firm's story, values and mission not only draws in clients but also helps you attract the best talent. Caleb shares valuable insights, including key stats on compensation and hiring timelines, as well as practical tips for vetting applicants through interviews and work samples. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/395

Sep 4, 20241h 1m

Ep 394Ep #394: How to Lead a Passion-Driven Ensemble Firm: An Interview with Jason Speciner

In this episode, we welcome Jason Speciner, founder and CEO of Financial Planning Fort Collins, or FPFoCo, a comprehensive financial planning and tax preparation firm based in Fort Collins, Colorado. Jason, who last appeared on the show in 2019, returns to share exciting updates on his firm's growth, the evolution of his team, and the challenges they've overcome along the way. FPFoCo now serves over 120 clients, and Jason credits their success to the specialized expertise of his team and their commitment to continually improving processes and systems. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/394

Aug 21, 202456 min

Ep 393Ep #393: How Focusing on a Niche Allows You to Love Your Work: An Interview with Ashley Foster

In this episode of XYPN Radio, we welcome back Ashley Foster, CFP®, founder of NXT:GEN Financial Planning. You might remember Ashley from Episode 321 in 2021, where he shared his journey transitioning from the insurance industry to the fee-only financial planning world. Today, Ashley gives us an inside look at the firm he built, which now serves over 50 clients, focusing primarily on young to mid-career veterinarians. Discover how niching down has allowed Ashley to align his passion with purpose while building a lifestyle practice. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/393

Aug 7, 202455 min

Ep 392Ep #392: Making The Transition From a Broker Dealer to Launching Your RIA

In this episode of XYPN Radio, we sit down with Jamie Lima, CFP®, CDFA®, MBA, an XYPN Ambassador, and the founder of Woodson Wealth Management and Allegiant Divorce Solutions, two virtual firms. Jamie's journey is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit, having transitioned from managing 450 households at large wirehouses to founding his firm amid the COVID pandemic of 2020. Jamie shares his unconventional path to gain marketing momentum, including how posting a profile on Thumbtack outperformed multiple marketing agencies. He also delves into his strategic hiring decisions, from bringing on an Operations Manager as a W2 employee to scaling his firm with 1099 advisors. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/392

Jul 24, 202451 min

Ep 391Ep #391: Taking Risks and Loving the Process - How the Valor Team scaled to over 100 Clients

In today's episode of XYPN Radio I am thrilled to have Ed Smith and Amanda Lique of Valor Wealth Partners on the show. Valor Wealth Partners specializes in serving civilian federal employees and handling their complex financial situations. Ed and Amanda are here to share their journey of building their firm from the ground up. We dive into the origins of their partnership, their strategic collaboration with ProFed to host workshops for their ideal clients, and the early investments that paved the way for their success. Despite the inherent risks, Ed and Amanda have no regrets in the venture and have grown their client base to over 100 satisfied clients. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/391

Jul 10, 202458 min

Ep 390Ep #390: Leveraging Lived Experience to Serve Business Owners

In today's episode we are joined by John Bovard, CFP®, founder and CEO of Incline Wealth Advisors, a thriving wealth management firm based in Cincinnati. John launched his firm in 2020, just before the pandemic, and has impressively grown it to serve over 75 clients with a dedicated two person team supporting him and the firm's continued growth. We delve into John's unique "barbell" approach to client management, focusing primarily on his niche work with business owners. John shares his insights on how he successfully guides these clients through the complex financial decisions involved in running their businesses. John discusses his flat fee pricing model and comprehensive service approach, offering listeners a transparent view of his strategies. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/390

Jun 26, 202455 min

Ep 389Ep #389: Going Full-time as a Solopreneur with Linden Cornett

We are thrilled to welcome back Linden Cornett, the founder of Seagrass Financial. Linden holds the honor of being the first guest to return three times over our eight-year journey at XYPN Radio. Many recent guests have mentioned Linden as a role model within our community, and for good reason. As a proud solopreneur, Linden has masterfully built systems and processes that allow her to scale and take well-deserved vacations. She gives us an inside look at how she leverages tools like Asana and introduces her innovative 15-hour intro planning package for new clients. Transparency is key as Linden openly shares her revenue and client numbers and offers invaluable advice for new advisors considering a shift into this space. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/389

Jun 12, 202451 min

Ep 388Ep #388: Unlocking the Power of a Partnership, The Evolution of AVID Planning with Jack Arnold and David Harpool

In this episode of XYPN Radio, we are thrilled to welcome back Jack Arnold, CFP®, and David Harpool, AAMS®, founders of AVID Planning in St. Petersburg, Florida. Having first joined us in January 2022 on XYPN Radio Episode 326, Jack and David return to share the significant changes and challenges they've faced while continuing to build and grow their firm. They discuss the considerations required when moving from a large financial advisory firm to an independent RIA, navigating non-compete clauses, and handling compliance when first striking out on their own. We delve into their unique partnership dynamics, exploring how they manage disagreements and how their friendship and shared passion for their work strengthen their professional relationship. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/383

May 29, 202454 min

Ep 387Ep #387: Balancing Motherhood and Management While Scaling an RIA: With Rebecca Conner

In this episode of XYPN Radio, we welcome back Rebecca Conner, CFP®, founder of SeedSafe Financial. Rebecca shares how she has evolved SeedSafe from a lifestyle practice into a firm that now serves over 90 ongoing clients with a team of five. She provides insights into her management philosophy, including how she inspires and empowers her team while also maintaining a manageable work-life balance. We also dive into her strategies for sustaining a 25-30 hour work week, and giving her team the same flexibility. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/387

May 15, 202455 min

Ep 386Ep #386: Level Up Your Client Engagement Game with Elements' Revolutionary Diagnostic Tool

On today's episode, we are thrilled to welcome XYPN member, Reese Harper, CFP ®, and Carl Richards, CFP ®, to XYPN Radio. These innovative minds are behind the cutting-edge technology called Elements, XYPN's newest technology partner. We'll dive deep into the origins of Elements, the technology itself, and the ideas that inspired its creation. Reese shares how his frustrations with the lack of realistic, standardized measurements for a client's financial health led him to define what he calls the client's 11 vital signs—an essential aspect that eventually led to the development of Elements. These vital signs don't just transform the delivery of financial planning services by advisors, but they also redefine the client's experience and the overall value of financial planning. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/386

May 1, 202459 min

Ep 385Ep #385: XYPN From "NextGen" to the "NextTen:" A Growth Story

In this special edition of XYPN Radio, co-founders Alan Moore and Michael Kitces join me to celebrate 10 years of XYPN. We reminisce about the early days, including how they met, the initial emails about opportunities for financial planners, and the growth and strategic decisions that shaped the company, including their first hire—me. Their complementary strengths and a commitment to innovation have been key to XYPN's success. We also discuss the future, including the launch of XYPN Sapphire, a corporate RIA designed to support a broader range of advisors. Join us as we celebrate XYPN's journey from industry disruptor to leader, and explore what's next for fee-for-service advisors building their dream firms. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/385

Apr 17, 20241h 9m

Ep 384Ep #384: How to Sell Your Value and Other Lessons Learned from Running a Solo Practice for 25 Years with Cathy Curtis

I'm honored to have Cathy Curtis, CFP®, founder of Curtis Financial Planning, back on XYPN Radio. It's been nearly three years since she last joined, and this time, we discuss the technological enhancements she's made, including her use of Holistiplan, Kwanti, and other essential tools. We touch on the importance of using a TAMP for those entering the industry and how many tools are now available to advisors considering opening their own firm. We also dive into Cathy's AUM fee model, where she emphasizes the importance of simplifying your fee structure for long-term success. She shares insights on setting time boundaries with clients to enhance service and build lasting relationships. By the end of this episode, Cathy's confidence will leave you feeling more equipped to sell your own value. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/384

Apr 3, 20241h 1m

Ep 383Ep #383: Grow Your Firm Faster by Leveraging Your Former Career with Mike Zung, CFP®

Today we welcome Mike Zung, CFP®, founder of Java Wealth Planning, an RIA based in Kansas City, Missouri to XYPN Radio. Mike shares insights into his journey from launching his firm part-time while still working in software development, to eventually transitioning to a full-time role serving over 30 tech industry clients. Mike and I cover marketing strategies, successfully transitioning from project-based to ongoing planning, and how he defines value for his clients. This episode provides valuable wisdom for advisors who change careers and the opportunities that can be leveraged by leaning into their previous expertise and personality strengths. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/383

Mar 20, 202459 min

Ep 382Ep #382: Leveraging Your Wirehouse Experience to Shape the Foundation of Your Fee-only Firm

In this episode, Maddy Roche returns as the full-time host of XYPN Radio, joined by Jennifer Kang, CFP®, founder of JWK Financial. Jennifer shares how she leveraged two decades of experience in a large wirehouse to establish her fee-only, flat-fee RIA in New York. She talks candidly about the fast-paced start of her business and her unwavering confidence in the value she provides, encouraging prospects to interview other advisors to ensure a perfect fit. Jennifer also discusses the transition from initial engagement fees to ongoing flat-rate relationships and emphasizes the importance of building a business at a sustainable pace. This episode is packed with valuable insights, making it a must-listen for financial professionals looking to learn from Jennifer's experience and expertise. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/382

Mar 6, 202454 min

Ep #381: The Power of YouTube: Strategies for Building Your Clientele

This special episode of XYPN Radio will be Alan's last episode before turning the podcast over to Maddy Roche! Alan talks about the transition before diving into a special episode with Patrick King, founder of Prana Wealth Management in Atlanta, Georgia. Patrick's journey began as an engineer designing machinery, but a realization about his financial advisor's priorities sparked his transition into financial planning. After earning his MBA, he gained experience at various large RIAs before deciding to start his own firm. Despite initial challenges, Patrick embraced YouTube to reach his ideal clientele, pivoting from targeting dual-income households to focusing on pre-retirees. Join us as Patrick shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey and the role of YouTube in building his successful fee-only practice. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/381

Feb 21, 202447 min

Ep 380Ep #380: Cultivating Empathy in Finance: Catching up with Tara Tussing Unverzagt

Explore Tara Tussing Unverzagt's innovative approach to financial planning. Tara's path to success involves leveraging her expertise as a certified financial therapist and prioritizing accessibility in her services. In this conversation, Tara shares how she has evolved her firm's offerings over the years to make financial planning accessible to diverse client populations. From hourly consultations to community-building initiatives, Tara's firm ensures fairness and affordability through a sliding scale fee structure based on income and assets. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/380

Feb 7, 202456 min

Ep #379: Niche Mastery: How to authentically target your audience with Lindsey Young

Embracing your authentic self can be terrifying, but our guest today took the leap and built an amazingly successful RIA by connecting with her niche. Our guest today, Lindsey Young, CFP®, and founder of Quiet wealth, shares shares her journey, and how she found success. Lindsey navigated diverse career terrains, from strategy consulting to the Peace Corps, tech in San Francisco, venture capital, and investment banking. Her decision to transition before starting the firm, driven by authenticity moving forward, resonated with her clients. On this episode, Lindsey shares her unique sales process, targeting successful LGBTQ professionals with a focus on clients with a net worth of one to five million. The conversation delves into her marketing strategies, emphasizing the significant return on investment from Google Ads and overall SEO efforts. Lindsey's experience offers a nuanced perspective on building trust within the LGBTQ community and highlights the broader appeal of her approach, serving both LGBTQ and straight clients. Join us for a deep dive into Lindsey's flat-fee model, her compensation structure, and the challenges and opportunities she encounters as a financial planner. I You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/379

Jan 24, 202453 min

Ep #378: Building Prosp(a)rity & Bridging the Wealth Divide

Join us this week as we explore Prosp(a)rity, a non-profit dedicated to nurturing, uplifting, and advancing Black women, and ultimately positioning them to pay it forward to their communities and next generations. Bri Franklin, Co-Founder of Prosp(a)rity, shares her journey — from post-Ivy League student debt to catalyzing change. This episode, Bri emphasizes the urgency of addressing predatory lending and student debt, spotlighting the systemic changes required. She details the programs Prosp(a)rity, champions. If you're a financial advisor seeking meaningful involvement, Bri outlines avenues for your impactful contribution. It's more than personal finance; it's about fostering resilience, community, and pursuing financial empowerment for all. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/378

Jan 10, 202452 min

Ep #377: Firm In Flux: How Buyout and Reinvention Can Kick Start an RIA

Matt Miner, founder of Miner Wealth Management and an XYPN member, joins us on the show today. After starting his career in corporate finance and earning an MBA, Matt worked with John Deere until a merger-related layoff prompted a career change. His journey into financial advising began with an internship at a fee-only advisory firm, where he successfully built his own client base from scratch. In 2021, after three years at the firm, Matt negotiated a buyout to take his clients and start his own RIA. He shared the details of this buyout and how it benefited both parties. Now in his third year of business, Matt is on track to generate over $350,000 in revenue. He also discussed his approach to fees, emphasizing that the debate over fee structures is unnecessary, and how he uses fees as a tool to ensure he's working with his ideal clients. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/377

Dec 27, 202355 min

Ep #376 Mind Over Money: How One RIA Owner Is Crafting A New Narrative In Finance

Maggie Klokkenga shares her insights into her client engagement process, which involves 8 to 10 one-hour-long meetings over several weeks, and the positive outcomes she's witnessed. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/376

Dec 13, 202354 min

Ep #375: Building Eden: Exploring The Heart Of Year One In A New RIA

Many of our recent guests have discussed how things are 2,3, 4 years after starting. But what about when you're in the thick of it? Our guest today, Nycole Freer, founder of Eden Financial is only 8 months into her solo RIA journey and tells us what it's like! Whether you're an aspiring business owner, a new entrepreneur navigating challenges, or an established owner reflecting on your progress, Nycole's story is a great touchstone for so many of us. Be sure to tune in and join us as we see another new advisor building towards their very own best life. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/375

Nov 29, 202349 min

Ep #374: When Your Life Partner Makes for the Best Business Partner

Join us on this episode of XYPN Radio as we introduce you to Tim and Alexis Woodward, co-founders of Blend Wealth. These financial planners decided to blend not just their lives but also their financial expertise, serving blended families and business owners. Discover how they've diversified their services, embraced their Christian faith in financial planning, and managed a thriving business while nurturing a harmonious marriage. This is an episode you won't want to miss. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/374

Nov 15, 202356 min

Ep 373Ep #373: XYPN's 2023 Benchmarking Study Highlights LIVE

What does it look like to scale your RIA and how long does it take? How big of an impact does it really make to have a niche? When should you start hiring, and who should it be when you do? Co-Founders Alan Moore and Michael Kitces met onstage this year to review the highlights of the seventh-annual Member Benchmarking Study in this episode of XYPN Radio. Every year, the study gathers information from XYPN member participants to get an accurate picture of how advisors are doing in their firms. You can find show notes and more information by visiting this link: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/373

Nov 1, 20231h 1m

Ep #372: How To Find Success While Doing the Next Right Thing

Doing the right thing in the financial world often involves speaking up and knowing when to go your own way. This is in no way an easy thing, but has time and time again been a source of joy for advisors. Our guest today, Mike Kelly, CFA®, CFP®, and founder of Switchback Financial has pursued doing right by his clients, himself, and his family. Along the way, he has built a successful business and has exciting new ventures on the way! Mike shares his experiences, from the impact Silicon Valley Bank's collapse had on clients in the tech industry, to the importance of sales skills and effective marketing on platforms like LinkedIn. All the while, striving to be present for his family, friends, and personal well-being. From ethics in action to what to look for in a new partnership, you won't want to miss this episode. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/372

Oct 18, 202355 min

Ep #371: How Life's Detours Can Support Your Dream Job

Your RIA journey isn't just an upwards climb from where you are to where you want to be. It can include things like a family, embracing other opportunities, and teaming up with a friend. In today's episode, we reconnect with Natalie Taylor CFP®. Since we spoke to her 3 years ago, she has taken an unexpected path to a growth-filled, confident today. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/371

Oct 4, 202355 min

Ep 370Ep #370: Mastering the RIA Transition from CIO to Successful Founder

Our guest moved up the corporate ladder to become CIO at 2 different large RIA's. Even from the top, there is just no replacing the freedom and flexibility that owning your own business can provide for both you and your clients. Terri Spath, CFA®, CFP®, founder of Zuma Wealth shares some fantastic stories and insights that you won't want to miss! You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/370

Sep 20, 202355 min

Ep #369: Empowering Your Finances: Lessons from Ministry to Money Management

From youth ministry to personal finance, Jeff Clark's journey wasn't simple. In his church, Jeff offered to help his peers with their finances, but soon had the attention of a congregation also in need! Following this path, he found himself in FinTech, able to learn from experts in the field. This stepping stone gave him the knowledge and confidence to strike out on his own. In 2021, he did just that. Cataloging his growth 2 years later, he has exceeded all expectations. With Jeff's practice expanding at an impressive pace, culminating in a hiatus from new client engagements for the latter half of 2023. He credits much of his success to the support of friends, family, and peers much like those in his XYPN Mastermind Group. For those looking into how their current support systems can bolster their practice, this episode is for you! You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/369

Sep 6, 20231h 0m

Ep 368Ep #368: Unchaining Student Loan Repayment: New Laws Are Reshaping How We Serve Clients

Not only are students of all ages needing financial guidance, the solutions available to them can completely change the way we look at student loan repayment and consolidation. In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Erik Kroll, CFP®, the founder of Hilltop Financial Advisors and Student Loans Over 50. Erik tells stories about how he has changed the financial landscape for his clients, including helping one client eliminate over $250,000 in student loan debt practically overnight! One really unique thing that Erik has built is a tiered service model that allows him to work with clients at different stages of their financial journey—something that many financial advisors have trouble navigating. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/368

Aug 23, 202346 min

Ep 367Ep #367: How Resilience and Community Paved a Path to Success With Leland Gross

We often hear how the network of support and connection that XYPN offers is a strong component of success. In today's episode, we learn that for our guest, Leland Gross, CFP®, the founder of PeaceLink Financial Planning, "community" wasn't just a benefit, it was essential after a life-changing event pulled his focus from building his business. In September 2021, Leland launched his firm and discovered that same month that his wife was pregnant! Three months later, they received the devastating news that their baby would need open heart surgery just after birth. Leland shares how his XYPN study group jumped in to help him keep his business from failing. While he focused on his family, they got set up so they could call Schwab on the client's behalf, helped craft emails and communications to clients, and basically did anything else they could do to support him while he cared for his family. With their assistance during that critical time, and Leland's strategic social media and podcast leveraging, he is now serving 45 client households (in less than 18 months!) in the self-employed niche—all while experiencing major changes and hardships to his growing family. Leland's story really shows how perseverance and support can get us through unimaginably difficult times and help us still find success. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/367

Aug 9, 202351 min

Ep #366: When Taking Custody and Engaging Virtual Assistance is Right For Your RIA With Kate Yearwood Young

If you're wondering whether taking custody of client accounts and a virtual assistant is right for your independent advisory firm, this episode's for you! Taking custody can be a scary decision, but sometimes it's the right one. Just ask XYPN member Kate Yearwood Young, CFA, CFP®, founder of Yearwood Young Advisors. From engineering to Wall Street to founding a successful business, she acquired the skills and services to meet her client's needs where they are. And their needs dictated that she take custody. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/366

Jul 26, 202359 min

Ep #365: How to Mine the Market to Find & Maximize Your Niche With Marlon Wesh

If you are interested in learning highly effective, yet simple ways to use data-driven market research to find and maximize your niche, this episode is for you! In this candid and informative conversation with XYPN member Marlon Wesh, MBA, founder of Wesh Financial, we learn how Marlon's early experience in HR for the Marine Corps helped formulate his firm's operational systems. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. Y ou can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/365

Jul 12, 202357 min

Ep #364: Becoming a Student of Your Own Art With Terry Bradford-Crane

If you're interested in the impact being a student of your own art can have on your priorities and business, this episode is for you! Terry Bradford-Crane MBA, CFP® of Bradford-Crane Company went to the Naval Academy for college with a dream of becoming a pilot and an astronaut. Just as she was finishing her training program, the US repealed a law prohibiting women from serving in combat zones, and she was one of the first women to receive orders to serve on an aircraft in a combat zone. Her first job out of the military was with Merrill Lynch, and she talked about how valuable the four years she spent there were for her career, mainly based on their amazing training program. In 2019, she decided to focus more on her financial planning business and started to scale. Most recently, she's been focused on her planning practice and become super intentional about her time and priorities to ensure the right work gets done. I was really impressed with her intentionality and she shared her goals for the business and how it will ultimately support her and her husband as they transition into the next phase of their lives. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/364

Jun 28, 202352 min