New Planner Podcast

Lauren Williams is the Co-Founder and Family Wealth Advisor at Prosper Plan. She joins the show to share her journey of entering the financial planning profession, including how her job as a temp led her to a securities firm, sparking her career in financial planning and wealth management. If the firm you joined is no longer a fit and you are seeking to start your own firm, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Lauren opens up about obtaining various licenses, pursuing a finance degree, taking time off for her daughter, and eventually earning a master's in financial planning and the CFP designation. She also talks about her decision to start her own firm, reveals what it was like leaving a high-paying job for the unknown, and offers tips for newer planners. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/4bwHY0M

Christian Martinez is a Financial Planner at Wela Financial Advisory based out of San Antonio, TX. He joins the show today to share his story of entering the financial planning profession after originally setting out to become an architect. If you are looking to transition into an RIA from another channel, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Christian talks about how a career-ending injury while playing basketball in college helped him gain clarity on his professional focus, as well as how he leveraged a personal connection to start his career in the insurance channel. He also shares why he transitioned to an RIA firm, what attracted him to his current role, the challenges he faces, and valuable tips for new planners. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3V8ifpP

Today we are joined by University of Michigan student Bryan Schneider. Bryan shares his journey of pivoting from being an Economics major to pursuing financial planning, including how he navigated his school's lack of a financial planning option and proactively sought out opportunities to immerse himself in the field. Listen in as Bryan discusses juggling a rigorous schedule, including enrolling in a CFP Certificate program while working for the basketball team and managing a full course load. You'll hear his vision for financial planning, his career aspirations, and valuable advice for fellow students on the path to becoming a Certified Financial Planner. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://tinyurl.com/283zmjw3

Alden Shmerling, a Partner at Elwood and Goetz in Atlanta, GA, joins the show today to share her path from a business major to a sought-after financial planner. Reflecting on the challenges of securing an entry-level position in a competitive market, Alden reveals the pivotal moments that shaped her career and how she navigated unpaid internships, reached out to mentors, and made bold career moves. Listen in as she offers insights into seizing opportunities, overcoming fears, and ultimately achieving success in the financial planning industry. You'll learn how Alden's dedication and perseverance led her to a leadership role at a startup financial planning firm (where she earned ownership within just five years), as well as her advice on navigating the job market, building your career, and positioning yourself for future success. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://tinyurl.com/44f9rrf5

Joshua Wardle is a financial advisor with Holistic Planning in Nacogdoches, TX. He joins the show today to share how he transitioned into financial planning after four years as a youth minister. If you are considering a career change, this episode is for you! Listen in as Joshua opens up about the founding of his financial coaching business and his subsequent pursuit of full-time opportunities. You'll learn about his interview experience with a large broker-dealer, his initial rejection, and his persistent efforts to enter the profession. He also discusses finding his current firm, the development of his role, and his success in earning trust and establishing a satellite branch. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3wfxYcY

Jeff Bramlett is a paraplanner with BDL Advisors based out of Atlanta, GA. He joins the show today to share his journey into financial planning, starting from a pivotal moment in college that led him to switch majors after a chance encounter with a fellow student. If you are looking to learn the business from the ground up, then this is an episode for you! Listen in as Jeff dives into his academic achievements—balancing a near-perfect GPA with part-time work and volunteering—and his advice for those entering the field. You'll hear about his challenging path to securing a role at a hybrid RIA amidst the COVID-19 job market, the most fulfilling part of his career, and more. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/4aNCVIK

Kate Healy is the CEO and Founder of AdvoKate IQ, LLC, a growth and marketing strategy consulting business that specializes in wealth management firms. She joins the show today to share her story of how she broke into the wealth management space. If you feel you are too young or inexperienced to succeed as a financial planner, then this episode is for you! Listen in as Kate shares her journey in the field, encompassing diverse roles from accounting to marketing, which exposed her to financial planning's benefits. You'll hear how her advisory stint wasn't her ultimate path (but facilitated impactful opportunities with the next generation), as well as the traits of successful next generation planners, career advice, and insights into Kate's new business venture. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/4aMl0Ca

Curious about advancing your career in financial planning? Join us as we sit down with Hannah Moore, the mastermind behind the Amplified Planning Externship Program, now in its 5th year. In this episode, Hannah reveals the intricacies of the program, its target audience, and the recent updates. Discover why participants return year after year, as well as the value the program offers, regardless of your career stage. Listen in as Hannah shares her motivation behind launching the externship and the lasting impact it's making on the profession. You will learn how this program is shaping the next generation of financial planners, why it's more than just a one-time opportunity, and how this transformative journey can evolve with your career. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://tinyurl.com/2y522w75

Colton Strawn is a financial advisor with Copperleaf Capital based out of Raleigh, NC. He joins the show today to share how he entered the financial planning profession and ultimately found the right fit for him. If you are starting to think you're in the wrong channel, this episode is for you! Listen in as Colton narrates his journey, from pivotal internships and positions at insurance and asset management firms to building his own book under an independent RIA. You'll hear about the challenges he faced along the way, strategies for client acquisition, and advice for new planners who are trying to navigate the industry. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/49n1gnx

Andy Blacker is an Associate Financial Advisor with Delphinus Financial Advisors, and he joins the show today to discuss how he transitioned to the financial planning profession after 10 years in the Marines. If you are in the military and are considering a career change, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Listen in as Andy talks about his journey from leaving the Marines to embarking on a career in financial planning, as well as the financial adjustments he and his fiancée made to cope with a 50% reduction in pay. You'll learn how he managed the CFP coursework and exam while still on active duty, why he decided against starting his own firm, and how he found his current role. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/4ax0wNB

Heath Jackson is a Business Consultant and Coach for Financial Advisors based out of San Antonio, TX. He joins the show today to discuss how he uses the skills he developed during his career as a CFP, client advisor, leader, and manager to help financial advisory firms with strategy and execution so they can continue to scale. If you are concerned that the only thing you can do as a CFP is become a client advisor, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Heath discusses his transition into consulting, why it has been a fulfilling career move, and the broad skill set he developed working in RIA, bank, and insurance channels. He also covers the common challenges advisory firms face, the traits of successful financial planners, and insider advice for new planners feeling constrained by traditional client advisor roles. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/4amaIZj

Joshua Walker is a Financial Advisor with Wright Planning based in Fishers, IN. He joins the show today to discuss his unconventional path to becoming a financial planner, from being hired into his family business serving dairy farmers—a "temporary" role that ended up lasting 20 years—to discovering his passion for financial planning. If you are struggling to get a firm to take a leap of faith on you, then don't miss this episode! Listen in as Joshua reveals how a single conversation at church opened the door to the financial planning world, setting him on a path to gain the necessary credentials and overcome significant job search challenges to secure a part-time position. We also discuss the emotional journey of seeing his plans come to fruition, his goals for the next three years, and valuable tips for new planners. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/43gFujQ

Joey Covolo is a paraplanner with Blue Heron Capital based out of Denver, CO, and he joins the show today to share how he transitioned into the financial planning profession—even though it wasn't initially on his radar. After starting out as a sports journalism major in college, he pivoted to business and used a personal connection to leverage an internship that ultimately set him on the path to becoming a planner. Listen in as Joey opens up about how being raised by a dedicated single mom, who made numerous sacrifices, inspired his unique path. He also talks about the pursuit of his CFP certification, explains his strategic move to a smaller RIA, and offers valuable advice for new planners entering the field. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3V9c05I

Jason McGarraugh is a Financial Advisor with BentOak Capital based out of Houston, TX, and he joins the show today to share his journey from growing up on a farm to becoming a financial planner. After overcoming academic challenges to excel in graduate school, pass the CFP exam, and succeed in a succession plan with a retiring advisor, Jason's unique path proves that hard work and determination can truly move the needle. Listen in as he opens up about his early introduction to the field through his grandparents' estate planning, as well as how he transitioned into financial planning after an initial career in the food service industry. You'll hear powerful insights, valuable advice for new planners navigating their careers, and more. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/4bZmB9k

Maria Sotomayor and Drew Friesen are the 2022 and 2023 recipients of the New Planner Recruiting Tuition Reimbursement scholarship, and they join the show today to discuss their respective journeys into the financial planning profession. If you are a new or soon-to-be college graduate, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Listen in as Maria and Drew discuss their entry into the field, including their educational paths and future aspirations to utilize their degrees to help others. They also share insights into their understanding of financial planning, their roles within it, their biggest fears about joining the profession, and what excites them the most. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/49shD2Q

Deven Patel is a Financial Advisor at Windsor Wealth Planners and Strategists based out of Gainesville, GA, and he joins the show today to share what he does each day as he splits his time between helping senior planners serve existing clients and building his own book of business. If you are seeking more of a hybrid role where you support an existing set of clients but also bring your own, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Deven shares his journey toward securing a role with a unique structure, highlighting his methods for gaining entry into the field. We also discuss his strategies for client acquisition, his focus on a specific niche client, and how his prior work experiences—coupled with his achievements in passing the series 65 and CFP exams—have rapidly advanced his career, allowing him to take the lead in planning meetings in under two years. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/49A1Fn5

Becca Phillips is an Associate Financial Planner with Horst & Graben based out of Portland, OR, and she joins the show today to discuss her "why" for pursuing a career in financial planning. From her initial exposure to the field that cemented her passion to breaking into the industry and her pursuit of the FPQP designation, you'll get to hear about her journey through networking, certifications, and more. Listen in as Becca opens up about how she overcame feelings of inadequacy to secure a position at her current firm, her challenges during the transition, and the supportive team environment that has welcomed her. You'll discover how she got to where she is today and the key lessons she learned along the way. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/42lBA8S

Jen Pritchard is a Lead Financial Advisor with Bannerman Wealth Management Group. She joins the show today to share her progression through the financial planning industry, detailing her experiences with multiple internships, her first job, and the challenges she faced in finding the right fit. If you are struggling to find that sometimes elusive right-fit firm, then this is an episode for you. Listen in as Jen talks about her transition from working in a back office planner role to becoming a lead advisor, highlighting the importance of communication and finding a role that matches one's career aspirations. She also offers insights on the importance of networking, being proactive in career development, and finding a firm that aligns with both your personal values and professional goals. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: http://bit.ly/47Q8xLO

Today, we welcome back Jesse Lineberry to interview Caleb on his new book, Finding your Path: The Roadmap from Student to Successful Financial Planner. If you are looking to excel in the financial planning field, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Listen in as we dive into the purpose behind the book, how to navigate the profession, and the various career paths that are available. We also discuss how to avoid common pitfalls, making this a valuable episode for both fresh graduates and career changers interested in financial planning. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3SdD9kw

Nathan McDuffee is a Financial Advisor with Oliver Wealth Management based out of Towson, MD, and he joins the show today to share his journey from working as a painter and Assistant Manager at a paint store—and struggling with personal finances—to becoming a successful financial planner. If you are considering a career change from a completely unrelated industry, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Nathan discusses his path to obtaining CFP certification, the challenges and mistakes he made along the way, and his progression from a paraplanner to a lead planner role in three years. You'll learn the transferable skills from his previous career that enabled his success in financial planning, insights into handling difficult client situations, and tips for new planners. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/48DVrCN

Taylor Bell is the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Compliance Officer for Colton Groome Financial based out of Asheville, NC, and she joins the show today to share her story of transitioning into the financial planning profession. If you aren't quite sure yet whether you want to be on the advisory or operations side of the business, then this episode is for you! Listen in as Taylor opens up about her experience climbing the ranks in a small family business, the pursuit of new opportunities leading to her discovery of an opening at her current firm, and her resilience after initially being turned down for a position. You'll hear about her decision to obtain the CFP designation (despite her operations-focused background), as well as how this choice enhanced her role in shaping the firm's operations and client experience. Taylor also discusses the evolving dynamics between front-office and back-office roles in the industry, her recent advancement to COO and CCO positions, and more. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/47Bbb83

Daniel Yerger is the Founder and President of My Wealth Planners based out of Longmont, CO. He joins the show today to discuss his journey to becoming a financial planner, including how he transitioned from active military service, became aware of the profession, and secured his first position in financial planning. If you want to know what it is like to start in the dually registered RIA channel and transition to the fee-only RIA model, this episode is for you! Listen in as Daniel discusses his insights on the necessity of an MBA for new planners, the criteria he used to choose his first employer, and his experiences with the dually registered RIA model (both advantages and drawbacks). He also talks about how he successfully built a client base during challenging initial years, the evolution of his service model and pricing strategy, and the process of transitioning clients to his newly established independent firm. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3TRyO9m

Scott Edwards, an Associate Financial Advisor at Rovin Capital in Lehi, UT, joins the show today to share the twists and turns that shaped his path to becoming a financial planner. In this episode, he opens up about the pivotal moment when a meeting with his parents' financial planner sparked his interest in the field. He also explains his current role's intricacies, offers tips for working with clients at a young age, and imparts words of wisdom for aspiring planners. Listen in as Scott candidly talks about the challenges he faced, including multiple attempts to pass the Series 65, providing commentary on the lessons learned from each setback. You will hear about his decision to switch firms early in his career, his biggest challenges along the way, and the unexpected turns that led him to his current role. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/48uP8Rw

Grace Moore is a Private Wealth Advisor in Washington D.C. She stops by the show today to discuss her journey to becoming a financial planner, including how she was able to secure an internship at a financial planning career day—without having taken any financial planning classes. Listen in as Grace talks about what it was like to join a two-person RIA firm, as well as how she overcame the challenges she faced along the way. You'll learn how she grew in her role and developed into a solid associate financial planner during her tenure there, why she left to join a larger RIA firm, and how she navigated some of the hurdles with joining a larger organization. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3GQHmFO

Scott Oeth is a financial planner with Cahill Financial Advisors, and he joins the show today to share his captivating journey in financial planning, beginning with his early interest in investing and his initial steps in the banking sector. If you are in another channel and want to transition into the RIA model, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Scott discusses his evolution from an internal wholesaler at an insurance company to thriving in various financial channels. You'll hear about the challenges and triumphs he encountered along the way, how his unique outdoor adventure business has influenced his approach as a financial planner, and tips for new planners—particularly those considering a transition to the RIA model. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/41qkjel

Kate Dixon is a world-renowned expert on compensation and negotiation, and she stops by the show today to share her wealth of expertise in this topic. If you are looking to become more confident in your negotiations, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Listen in as Kate shares the essentials of successful negotiation strategies, starting by emphasizing the importance of always negotiating an offer, exploring alternatives for negotiation when salary adjustments aren't possible, and advocating for face-to-face negotiation. She also reveals her four-step process to streamline negotiations, discusses overcoming nervousness and emotional challenges during negotiation talks, and highlights the benefits of a collaborative negotiation style. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3RG6RQ4

Dave Ragan is a Financial Planner and Partner at Grunden Financial Advisory based out of Denton, TX. He stops by the show today to discuss his path into the financial planning profession, after initially pursuing a photojournalism career. If you're skeptical about the possibility of someone remaining with their first post-college firm throughout their career, this episode will provide you with a fresh perspective! Listen in as Dave dives into his 20-year journey with the same firm, discussing the steps he took to secure his first interview, the evolution of his role over the years, and why the firm's culture and structure led him to choose intrapreneurship over starting his own practice. You'll hear how Dave achieved ownership in just eight years, what the firm's growth trajectory has been, and insights for new planners entering the field. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3NbSG2P

Kurt Cornfield is a retired financial planner and Professor of Financial Planning at Liberty University. He joins the show today to discuss his career and why he is passionate about growing the Kingdom Advisors Association, the leading advocate for the Christian financial industry. If you are seeking a community of Christian-based financial planners, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Kurt shares his journey from the wirehouse channel to becoming a key figure in financial planning education. He delves into his pivotal role in developing the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) program at Liberty University, the unique aspects of the Certified Kingdom Advisor designation—including insights into its influential annual conference—and more. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3sKzUbO

Hayley Swaim is a Planning Team Lead—a role she snagged at just 24 years old—based out of Austin, TX. She stops by the show today to discuss her path into the financial planning profession. If you are looking for ideas on how to fast-track your career, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Hayley shares her early determination to become a financial planner, leading her to complete two internships before even starting college. She also dives into her journey of initiating a financial planning student organization, landing a part-time role at her current firm during college, and her rapid ascent to a team lead position just two years post-graduation. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3ujOxmZ

Today we have Ryan Huey and Franklin Matute of Roserock Wealth Management, based out of Dallas, TX, joining the show. They discuss how they found financial planning early on, starting their careers right out of college. If you are a soon-to-be new college grad beginning your financial planning career, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Listen in as Ryan and Franklin recount their journey through the financial planning landscape, from directly after college to when their paths converged at Roserock five years ago. Ryan details his 18-year tenure at a firm where a personal connection blossomed into a fulfilling career, his reasons for departing to establish his own firm, and why Franklin was his top choice for the venture. Franklin opens up about his transitions from a mid-size to a large RIA before taking the leap to join Ryan, his methods for building client confidence, and his rationale for moving to a startup environment. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/45YqXZO

Jon Harrington is a Financial Planner and Partner at Milestone Financial Planning based out of Bedford, NH, and he stops by the show today to discuss his path into the financial planning profession. If you are passionate about helping members of the military with their financial affairs, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Jon describes his trajectory from a finance major at Bentley University to embarking on his financial planning career within the bank channel, as well as his experiences that led him to provide financial counseling to military service members. He'll also share his decision to enlist in the military at age 31 after years of serving service members in a civilian capacity, discuss his rise to becoming an equity owner at Milestone Financial Planning, and explain how he balances his military career, family life, and his role as a financial planner. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3tPXp3d

Tanner Merritt is a Financial Counselor with Zeiders Enterprises, and he joins the show today to discuss his path into the financial planning profession. Starting with his transition after 6 years in the Army to majoring in Natural Resource Management, he ultimately made his way to financial counseling for the military. Listen in as Tanner dives into the reasons for his transition, discussing the intricacies of his role, potential salary ranges, career trajectories, and strategies to combat financial stigmas within the military community. You'll hear about his journey from persisting with his major to pursuing a graduate degree, landing an internship with a small RIA, and subsequently joining a large financial services firm. He also gives invaluable tips for budding planners to enhance their marketability. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3Fyuvra

Makemma Cockrell Wolff is an Associate Relationship Manager at Avion Wealth, and she joins the show today to discuss her path into the financial planning profession. If you are feeling frustrated in your job search and are thinking about giving up, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Makemma shares her initial aspirations of law, only to find her true calling in financial planning through a university assessment. She also details her experiences at the TTU financial planning program, securing multiple internships, and navigating a challenging job market due to stock market fluctuations. You'll hear Makemma's insights into her current role, early-career reflections, and advice for fresh graduates eyeing positions at smaller RIAs. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3MePkvh

Dr. Philip Gibson is a Finance Professor and Financial Advisor based out of Rock Hill, SC, and he joins the show today to share how he entered the financial planning profession. Recounting his journey from Jamaica to the U.S. for college, where a mentor's suggestion at Prairie View A&M put financial planning on his radar, Phillip shares his academic pursuits, leading to his current role at Winthrop University. If you love to teach, but also aspire to one day be a financial planner, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Philip dives into the inception and evolution of his side practice in financial planning, emphasizing how it enhanced his teaching and the Winthrop CFP program. We also discuss the challenges of building a firm from the ground up, Philip's eventual merge with larger entities, and his advice for aspiring financial planners. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3PH5uP6

Enjoli Ramsey is a Certified Financial Planner and Navy vet who joins the show today to take us through her unconventional journey into the financial planning profession. If you are looking to change your career to financial planning, then this is an episode for you! Listen in as she recounts her 23-year military career, her early interest in personal finance, and how she transitioned into a fintech startup after passing the CFP exam just before the onset of COVID-19. You'll hear Enjoli's vision for the future of financial planning, her recent career moves, and advice for those looking to switch careers. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: bit.ly/3RCfgo2

Today we have Martin Seay, the Department Head of Personal Financial Planning at Kansas State University, and Jesse Lineberry, the Director of the Financial Planning Program at Virginia Tech University, on the show. The pair join the podcast for office hours to chat about all things financial planning. Tune in as they share the kinds of offers their students receive from employers, what students prioritize in entry-level roles, and the distinguishing factors of top job candidates. We also explore pressing topics, like whether students should readily accept their first post-graduation offer or wait to see if something better comes along. This episode offers a valuable peek into the financial planning academic world, so don't miss out! You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3F0AWmz

Victoria Lawrence is an Associate Financial Planner with Morris Financial Concepts in Charleston, SC. She joins the show today to share her unique journey from aspiring investment banker to financial planner, including how she entered the financial planning profession. If you are seeking to get hired into a financial planning firm without a financial planning degree, this is an episode for you! Drawing from her rich experiences growing up in Hong Kong, Victoria opens up about the process of finding her ideal firm, how her role has matured over time, and a pivotal chat with her parents' financial planner that got her started on her path. Listen in to gain insights into the challenges and rewards of the profession and valuable advice for newcomers to the field. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: bit.ly/3rj74hV

Today we welcome back Jesse Lineberry to discuss the intricacies of compensation in the financial planning profession. We'll examine recent offers that have been both accepted and rejected, providing insights into industry trends. Discover the data from a salary survey, shedding light on the expected salaries for paraplanners, associate planners, and financial planners. We'll also delve into the evolving landscape of compensation structures in the financial planning field. Listen in to learn how firms are aligning career plans and compensation paths to reward behavior and foster accountability, especially during the critical early years of a career. You will hear about the role of a strong company culture in supporting compensation packages for job seekers, the impact of experience on compensation, the preferences of younger planners regarding in-office or virtual work arrangements, and insights into financial considerations and bonuses. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://tinyurl.com/yubmkdvt

Jason Howell and Doug Tees are with Jason Howell Company based out of Fairfax, VA, and they join the show today to discuss their journeys in the financial planning industry. If you are considering changing careers and would like the confidence to make the leap, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Jason and Doug delve into their unique paths to financial planning, as well as the formation of their successful partnership. Jason unpacks how he utilized his vast network to launch and grow his firm, and the serendipity behind hiring Doug just two years in. Meanwhile, Doug reveals his career transitions, the value of past experiences in convincing Jason to take a leap of faith with him, and their collective vision for the firm's future. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: bit.ly/3Pvz0Z3

Dana Carney is an Associate Wealth Manager at River Capital Advisors in Jacksonville, FL. She joins the show today to share her unconventional journey into the world of financial planning, starting with her initial aspirations to become a dietician and the transformative volunteer experiences that honed her skills. If you are passionate about financial literacy, but also want to work with high-net-worth clients, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Dana opens up about her choice to work in financial literacy for low-income families post-graduation, as well as how she eventually pivoted to the high-net-worth RIA space. You'll hear how she overcame the setback of failing the CFP exam—and then waited five years to retake it successfully—and invaluable tips for those preparing for the test. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: bit.ly/3RksVQT

Kyle Jahnke is a financial advisor at the RWS Group based out of Saginaw, MI, and he joins the show today to discuss his transition into the financial planning profession after four years in a corporate finance role. If you're a career changer or in the process of preparing for the Series 7 exam, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Listen in as Kyle delves into his journey from a corporate finance role at a prominent Fortune 500 company to his current position as an advisor. He unpacks the steps he took to pass the Series 7 exam, from the materials he invested in to his dedicated study strategy. You'll hear the challenges he faced, the questions that predominated the exam, and invaluable advice for future test-takers. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: bit.ly/3YKx7e2

Nicky Amore is a financial planner with Falcon Wealth Planning based out of Chicago, IL. She joins the show today to chat about her unique journey into the financial planning industry, including how early life challenges, like injuries and time in a wheelchair, shaped her perspective. If you have had setbacks and need a boost of encouragement to keep moving forward, this is definitely an episode you won't want to miss! Listen in as Nicky shares how she went from working at Starbucks in college (and swiftly rising to manage a store by 25) to transitioning among several financial roles due to her expertise in employee benefits. Eventually finding her place at an RIA, Nicky is now committed to education and offers insightful wisdom for aspiring financial planners. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: bit.ly/3QZyMLh

Mark Hansen is the owner of Second Comma, a virtual advisor firm for 6-figure single-income households. He joins the show today to share his path into the financial planning profession, from a high-paying steady job to starting over at zero. If you are nervous about leaving the comfort and stability of corporate America to start your career in financial planning, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Listen in as Mark recounts his journey into the financial planning profession, from giving advice to co-workers to a serendipitous meeting that catapulted him into the field. He delves into the challenges of corporate life, his daring decision to leave a stable job, his tailored services for a niche market, and his consistent client acquisition rate. He also touches upon battling imposter syndrome and the invaluable support from his mentor in just 7 months of his venture. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: bit.ly/3rZy7Pc

Joel Cavaliere is a Financial Advisor at Blue Heron Capital based out of Denver, CO, and he joins the show today to discuss his path to becoming a financial planner. He also highlights his transition within the industry, revealing how he navigates the challenges of working with an older clientele and confronting ageism. If you are concerned that you might be too young to work with retired clients, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Joel delves into his journey, from his academic choices and early hesitations in the insurance sector to his strategic move to a boutique retirement firm post-graduation. You'll hear his future aspirations, what it's like to develop a retirement plan, and tips for budding financial planners. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: bit.ly/3DIb1zr

Matt Garasic is the Founder of Unrivaled Wealth Management based out of Pittsburgh, PA, and he joins the show today to discuss how he found his way to financial planning—despite thinking it was only insurance sales. If you feel stuck and need someone to take a chance on you, even if you might not have the level of experience they are looking for, then this is an episode for you! Listen in as Matt shares his unique journey from an initial pursuit in Petroleum Geology to becoming a financial planning expert, highlighting his early internship experiences and the critical career decisions that shaped his path. We also discuss the challenges and opportunities he encountered in his early roles, his strategic move to a large RIA in Florida, and the invaluable lessons he picked up while working with ultra-high-net-worth clients at a young age. Finally, he reveals why he decided to establish his own firm and the obstacles he's tackled along the way. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: bit.ly/43QpGmw

Dawn Torres-Gale is a Client Services Manager at Compass Planning Associates based out of Westport, MA, and she joins the show today to discuss her journey of becoming a financial planner. If you are seeking a firm that has a unique structure, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Join us as Dawn reveals her unique journey from conflict resolution within the military to becoming a financial planner, spurred by service members' need for advanced financial guidance. Learn about her transition from a reluctant private sector career to a part-time virtual paraplanner, supported by invaluable mentorship from her first employer. Finally, she explores her successful search for firms not managing assets, and the factors contributing to her finding the perfect fit at her current firm. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: bit.ly/3Y93LWv

Taylor Cole is a Client Analyst at LFM Wealth Management based out of Chapel Hill, NC. She joins the show today to discuss how she transitioned into financial planning from a career as a nanny. If you are a career changer considering a career in financial planning, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Taylor divulges how her journey was sparked by a random career guidebook encounter, which led her to seek knowledge from financial radio shows and local planners. She also shares the insights she gained as she details her transition into the field, choosing her CFP program, enduring the initial "firehose" phase, and mastering the art of client meetings. You'll learn strategies for confidence-building, ideas to attract more women into financial planning, and the unique advantage career changers can leverage to thrive in the field. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: bit.ly/46Vbbkr

Taylor Love is a Financial Advisor at Elevant Wealth based out of Twin Falls, ID. He joins the show today to discuss his entrance into the financial planning profession, which, interestingly enough, was not his initial career choice. If you are nervous about taking on client relationships by yourself, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Taylor unfolds his intriguing journey into the financial planning profession, from it not being his initial career choice to securing internships and learning from school alumni. He also reveals his struggle to pass the series 65 exam, his decision to join the firm where he interned, and how he is gearing up to manage some of the less complex clients—all while sharing nuggets of motivation. You'll also hear the toughest challenges faced by new planners and valuable tips for those just starting out. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: bit.ly/3PNEOOa

Andrew Fincher is a Financial Advisor at VLP Financial Advisors based out of Vienna, VA, and he joins the show today to share how he became a financial planner. If you think you are too young or inexperienced to become a lead planner, this is an episode for you! Listen in as Andrew shares his journey from accounting major to successful financial planner, and how overcoming career obstacles during the COVID-19 pandemic led him to become the trusted lead advisor for 40 clients at his current firm—all at the age of 25. We also discuss Andrew's passion for financial planning education, insights on how to engage more high school and college students in the field, and valuable tips for new planners. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: bit.ly/447UiB5

Alex Carracedo is the Founder of Envision Retirement based out of Phoenix, and he joins the show today to share his story of becoming a Certified Financial Planner and RIA firm owner. If you feel like you are a round peg in a square hole and your career is not where you want it to be, this is an episode you won't want to miss! In this episode, Alex shares his journey from childhood lessons in personal finance to earning his CFP designation and entering the world of financial planning, leveraging his network to land all five of his positions before finding his entrepreneurial calling. We discuss how he strategically targeted the 401k plan market, how he wooed a client with only a $1,500 account to invest, the dynamics of his first-year clientele, and the evolution of his client portfolio. Alex also unveils his planning process, fee structure, the reasons for parting ways with his broker dealer, and offers words of wisdom to budding planners navigating the early stages of their careers. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: bit.ly/3Jey5ZC