RIA Collective: Recent Episodes
Charlie Van Derven
Are you a financial advisor stuck with a firm that no longer serves your needs, fits your ideals, or gives you the flexibility to serve your clients as a true fiduciary? That is a tricky place to be, but rest assured, you’re not alone. RIA Collective Podcast is created with you in mind. We interview leaders at Registered Investment Advisory firms to learn from their wisdom and experience. It is our goal to take the fear and mystery out of going independent.Most of the industry leaders we talk with were in the exact same place you find yourself today. They too saw themselves as entrepreneurs. They became an advisor to create flexibility in their lives and help many others create financial security and peace of mind. Like you, those professionals become stifled by their captive environment. Sales quotas, proprietary products and services, the firm’s agenda, compliance, and other factors can make it difficult to grow and to act as a true fiduciary to your clients. RIA Collective podcast is hosted by Charlie Van Derven, an industry veteran who has been serving the advisor community for almost 25 years. During his time working in Financial Services, Charlie has seen trends come and go. One trend that continues with no end in sight, is the migration of advisors from the captive wire-house space to independence.The move to independence can go smoothly, or it can be a battle. Tune in to RIA Collective podcast to learn from industry leaders how to set your practice up for a smooth transition. Learn important things to consider and actions to take 3, 6, 12, or 18 months ahead of your move. Learn how to solidify key client relationships so you can retain the assets you’ve built.If you are an advisor considering a change or an industry leader who is building their firm and has wisdom to share, we would love to talk to you.Visit RIAcollective.com for more information or reach out to Charlie directly on LinkedIn. Thanks for being here.If you'd like to be a guest or connect directly with Charlie, visit https://www.riacollective.com.
In this insightful episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven engages in a captivating conversation with Judd Allen of Judd Allen Financial and the ICG Group. They delve into Judd's strategic transition from a broad financial advisory role to mastering a niche within the automotive sector. Reflecting on his initial uncertainties and the transformative journey to becoming a specialist, Judd shares how his passion for cars and understanding of automotive professionals' unique financial needs fueled his success.
The discussion explores the profound satisfaction Judd finds in building long-term relationships and witnessing his clients achieve their retirement dreams, highlighting that some rewards far surpass monetary compensation. They also touch on the importance of adapting to industry changes, leveraging technology, and the impact of specialized knowledge in fostering client trust and business growth.
Tune in for an inspiring look at how dedication to a niche, combined with genuine passion, can drive a fulfilling and successful career in financial advisory.
In this compelling episode of RA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven welcomes Justin Stevens, co-founder of O'Keefe Stevens Advisory, based in Rochester, New York. Justin shares his unconventional journey into the financial services sector, starting from a pivotal internship that steered him away from pre-med to finance, inspired by a family friend's recommendation. Their conversation dives deep into Justin's early career experiences, working in a nurturing family-run business, and the invaluable mentorship that shaped his professional philosophy.
Justin details the deliberate and thoughtful process behind founding O'Keefe Stevens Advisory with his partner Peter, highlighting the importance of philosophical alignment, integrity, and client-first values in their move towards independence. Their discussion uncovers the strategic planning, challenges, and teamwork involved in transitioning to an independent firm, growing their assets under management from 135 million to 350 million, and the vision driving their future growth towards a billion in AUM.
Tune in for an inspiring exploration of building a successful financial advisory firm from scratch, the power of supportive partnerships, and the relentless pursuit of growth aligned with core values. Justin's story is a testament to the transformative power of strategic planning, dedication, and the right team dynamics in the journey towards independence in the financial advisory world.
In this episode of RIA Collective, Charlie van der Ven welcomes Sara Stanich of Cultivating Wealth, based in Montauk, New York. Transitioning from a vibrant marketing career to founding her own RIA, Sara shares her journey through the early days of internet advertising, the .com crash, and eventually, the financial sector. Their conversation sheds light on the unique challenges and insights gained from transitioning to an independent financial advisor role, with a special focus on empowering women and navigating the divorce financial planning niche.
Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on leveraging diverse backgrounds for success in financial planning and the strategic moves that propelled Cultivating Wealth. Sarah's story is an inspiring example of how adaptability and passion can pave the way for a fulfilling career in finance.
In this insightful episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven engages in a thought-provoking conversation with guest Tyson Ray, the founding partner of Form Wealth Advisors. Urging a transition from a riches-focused mindset to a wealth-centered perspective, Tyson underscores the importance of nurturing total client relationships based on wealth, not just riches. Through anecdotes and experiences, Tyson details his journey in the finance industry, his transition towards total relationship investing, and the concept of 'funded contentment.' This episode unveils Tyson's passion for guiding clients toward their financial goals, breaking traditional molds, and employing technology to enhance client experiences. Listen in to understand his unconventional approach to wealth management and how he considers clients' lifetime goals central to wealth management. This conversation offers valuable insights for young advisors, independent advisors, and anyone seeking to redefine their perspective on wealth and client relationships.
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 of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven invites Michael Rasmussen of United Atlantic Legal Services to share his expertise in aiding financial advisors in their transition to independent practices. Michael, with a background as a chief compliance officer and general counsel for various investment advisors, as well as experience as a regulator with FINRA, provides valuable insights into the complexities of starting an independent RIA.
LinkedInWebsite
In this episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven sits down with Emily Haberkern of Evangelista & Associates to discuss the triumphs and trials of niche marketing within the financial advisory sector. Emily recounts her path to alignment with the firm's values and the unique approach to servicing university employees, emphasizing the importance of specialized knowledge and targeted service in a competitive industry. They tackle the topics of gender dynamics in finance and the benefits of a supportive RIA community.
Tune in to gain strategic insights on carving out a niche and understanding the impact of focused marketing on client trust and growth.
Emily HaberkernLinkedInWebsite
In this episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven sits down with Sam Kingston from Arch, a SaaS platform serving family offices and RIAs, to discuss the transition of financial advisors from large firms to independent practices. They cover the challenges of data aggregation and investment management for affluent clients, the benefits of early engagement with platforms like Arch, and the technological strides independent advisors are making to provide sophisticated services rivaling those of wirehouses.
Sam Kingston
LinkedInWebsite
In this episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven sits down with financial expert Anthony Mlachnik in a reflective conversation about the complexities and nuances of navigating client-focused transitions in the financial industry. Anthony shares his professional journey, emphasizing the importance of a meticulously professional approach and the virtues of patience in ensuring decisions align with clients' best interests.
Anthony Mlachnik
LinkedInWebsite
In this episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven sits down with David Pappalardo of Segal Marco Advisors. Together, they dive deep into the world of financial advising and the ever-evolving trajectory towards independence. David sheds light on the dual-edged sword of independence: while it offers freedom, it also comes with significant responsibilities. Listen in as they discuss the nuances of being a solo player in the financial market, the essential need for planning, and how advisors can carve out unique identities in a saturated market.
David PappalardoLinkedInWebsite
In this episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven is joined by Scott Matasar, a seasoned attorney with a unique perspective on the intersection of law and business. Dive into the intricacies of navigating legal complexities in the corporate world, the importance of understanding both the courtroom and the boardroom, and the strategies Scott employs to ensure success in both arenas.
Tune in for an enlightening conversation that sheds light on the synergy between legal acumen and business strategy, offering professionals insights into the challenges and rewards of blending two distinct yet interconnected fields. Learn about the art of negotiation, the significance of building robust business relationships, and the unparalleled value of legal expertise in the world of commerce.
Scott MatasarLinkedInWebsite
In this episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven sits down with Brandon Fink from Claro Advisors to explore the challenges and triumphs of transitioning to an independent advisory firm. Dive into the significance of fostering strong client relationships, the value of consistent communication, and the role of trust in ensuring a smooth move.
Listen in for an insightful discussion that offers a glimpse into the dynamics of a successful transition in the financial industry, providing advisors with valuable perspectives on the importance of preparation, the benefits of independence, and the power of client trust.
Brandon FinkLinkedInWebsite
In this episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven invites Jorge Padilla from Meira Wealth for a deep dive into the intricate process of rebranding in the world of financial services. Discover the motivations behind Meira Wealth's transformation, the emphasis on a team-centric approach, and the pivotal role of client feedback throughout the journey.
Tune in for a compelling conversation that sheds light on the evolution of a financial advisory firm, equipping advisors with insights on brand transitions and the significance of client-centric strategies.
Jorge PadillaLinkedInWebsite
In this episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven welcomes Galen M Herbst de Cortina from "Buff Your Finances" for an enlightening chat on blending finance with the virtual world of gaming. Dive into how niche markets can be game-changers, the story behind the intriguing name, and why virtual finance resonates so well with YouTubers and streamers.
Tune in for a captivating discourse that unravels the merger of financial advising and the digital domain, arming advisors with fresh perspectives in this unique terrain.
Galen M Herbst de Cortina
LinkedIn
Website
In this episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven converses with Erin Redmond of Ford Financial Group. Transitioning from a background in online media, Erin delves into her intriguing journey into the financial services realm. The duo discuss Ford Financial's rich history, their unique emphasis on client education, and the innovative subscription pricing model they're exploring.
Central to their conversation is the idea of making financial advice accessible to a wider demographic, especially those who might not fit the mold of traditional asset management. By bringing a fresh and inclusive approach, Ford Financial aims to bridge the financial advice gap, with education as its cornerstone.
Also highlighted is the firm's initial focus on women and how they've since broadened their reach. Erin speaks passionately about the potential of a subscription-based pricing model like AdvicePay, shedding light on the possibilities it opens up for younger individuals requiring financial guidance.
Join us for this insightful episode, where traditional financial advisory meets modern innovation, all geared towards serving a diverse clientele.
Erin Redmond
LinkedIn
Website
In this episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven sits down with Bill Oakley from Family Wealth to dive deep into the technological advancements and innovations in the world of financial advising. They explore the ever-evolving fintech space, the importance of keeping up with the rapid pace of technological change, and how smaller firms can often be more agile than their larger counterparts.
Join us for a riveting conversation that sheds light on the intersection of finance and technology, equipping advisors with the knowledge to stay ahead in this dynamic landscape.
Bill OakleyLinkedIn
Website
In this episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven invites Mark Elzweig, a seasoned independent recruiter, to discuss the intricacies of an RIA transition. The conversation ranges from the evolution of the current RIA model to specific best practices from an experienced recruiter.
Join us for an enlightening conversation that demystifies the RIA space, offering advisors insights into navigating their professional journey with foresight and agility.
Mark ElzweigLinkedIn
Website
In this episode, our Host, Charlie Van Derven, chats with John Bovard, the brains behind Incline Wealth Advisors. John shares his story of moving from a big firm to being an RIA. His story shows how becoming independent can bring new opportunities, especially in digital marketing. John's experiences and tips can help listeners who want to become independent advisors themselves.
John talks about how important digital marketing has been for growing his business and keeping his clients throughout the transition and how independence has opened new avenues for marketing his authentic self.
This episode is great for anyone thinking about becoming independent. Listen in to hear how John Bovard used digital marketing to become successful in the RIA world.
John BovardLinkedIn
Website
Join us in this insightful episode with Urban Adams as he imparts practical advice on the role of delegation and the power of putting clients first. Uncover how delegating tasks can dramatically impact your efficiency, allowing you to focus on high-level activities that directly benefit your clients. Learn about Urban's unique approach to maintaining deep, quality relationships with his clients while efficiently managing his practice.
Tune in to discover how you can streamline your operations and elevate your client engagement to new heights.
Urban AdamsLinkedIn
Website
In this episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven sits down with Carmine Corino, the CEO of Cornerstone Planning Group (CPG), to discuss the journey to independence and the importance of building a culture of service and accountability. Carmine shares his passion for fiduciary responsibility and client-centric financial planning, highlighting how CPG sets itself apart by prioritizing the needs of clients and providing personalized guidance.
Discover how personal investment and mentorship play a crucial role in building strong relationships between Carmine and his advisors, ensuring they receive the support they need to provide exceptional service.
Join us as we delve into the world of independent advising and uncover the secrets to creating a culture that fosters success, accountability, and unwavering dedication to clients.
Carmine CorinoLinkedIn
Website
In this episode of RIA Collective, our host Charlie Van Derven is joined by Peter Hughes, founder of LexAurum Advisors. They discuss the advantages and challenges of transitioning from a broker-dealer to an RIA, the importance of the Golden Rule in building a successful advisory firm, and the factors to consider when joining an existing RIA or starting your own. Tune in to gain valuable insights from Peter's experiences and learn how to navigate the path to independence.
Peter HughesLinkedIn
Website
In this informative episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven chats with Gary Chidsey from Laser Insurance and Financial Services in Medina, Ohio. They discuss Gary's unique journey from a captive financial firm to the independent RIA space with the support of Nationwide.
Learn valuable insights and advice on managing a growing practice, right-sizing, and the benefits of partnering with a boutique RIA like LuxAurum. Tune in to discover how prioritizing tasks and focusing on revenue-producing work can help during a transition, as well as the importance of building strong relationships within the industry.
Gary ChidseyLinkedIn
Website
In this episode of RIA Collective, our host, Charlie Van Derven, sits down with Mark Willis from Lake Growth Financial Services. They discuss Mark's unconventional journey in the financial industry, his passion for helping clients achieve financial freedom, and the power of having a clear and compelling message. Tune in to hear Mark's insights on the importance of being bold, finding the right mastermind, and the impact of money on our mindset and heart.
Mark WillisLinkedin
Website
In this episode of RIA Collective, we sit down with Christie Powell, founder of Falcon Financial of Oklahoma, who shares her unique and inspiring journey of starting a career in the financial industry at 50 years old.
As a former dental hygienist, Christie's unconventional path to becoming an independent advisor highlights the importance of following your passion, overcoming challenges, and making a meaningful impact on people's lives.
Tune in to learn about her experiences, insights, and the crucial piece of equipment she believes every advisor should have.
Christie PowellLinkedin
Website
In this episode, Charlie sits down with Heather Welsh, VP of Weatlth Management at Sequoia Financial Group, to discuss the importance of client-focused wealth management and the value of planning and personalization in the industry.
Heather shares her journey from advisor to wealth planner and how her firm's dedication to planning and team collaboration has allowed them to better serve their clients.
They also explore the role of technology in wealth management and how it can be used to deliver personalized service at scale.
Finally, Heather offers insights for young professionals entering the industry, emphasizing the value of education and committing to additional designations. Tune in for a conversation that highlights the power of a client-first approach in wealth management.
Heather WelshLinkedin
Website
In this podcast episode, Charlie Van Derven interviews Rob Samson from Stratos Wealth Partners, a Midwest-based firm that offers independent financial advisors the opportunity to have the support they need to build their business without having to go it alone.
Rob shares his insight on the benefits of the independent side of the industry for advisors who want to have the freedom to serve their clients in the purest, most fiduciary-based way.
He also talks about how the independent space is a growth-oriented channel that allows financial advisors to be a full balance-sheet wealth manager and have the flexibility to do business where they want to.
Rob dispels common misconceptions about the independent space and talks about how senior advisors can best transition their businesses to the next generation.
Tune in for a refreshing and optimistic look at independence.
Join host Charlie Van Derven as he chats with Derek Notman about life, work, and the pursuit of happiness in the financial industry. From surfing Lake Michigan to the importance of work-life balance, Charlie and Derek cover a lot of ground in this laid-back conversation. Derek shares his experience of going independent and how it has allowed him to pursue his passions beyond just serving clients. Along the way, they touch on topics such as the challenges of being a holistic advisor, the pitfalls of production requirements, and the importance of building a scalable practice that works for you.
Derek NotmanLinkedIn
Website
In this episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven speaks with George Gay, the CEO of First Affirmative Financial Network, a pioneer in socially responsible and impact investing. George discusses his journey in the financial industry and how First Affirmative has evolved to become a leader in ESG investing. He also talks about the importance of finding younger advisors to take over the business from the baby boomer generation and the need for advisors to align with their clients' values. Join Charlie and George for an insightful conversation on impact investing, succession planning, and the future of the financial industry.
George GayLinkedinWebsite
Join Charlie Van Derven as he sits down with Wade Slome, a highly successful independent financial advisor and author, to discuss his journey in building his firm, Sidoxia Capital Management.
Wade shares his wisdom on navigating the industry and shares his tips on finding success as a financial advisor. Charlie and Wade discuss his books (he has written two) and how his career differed from some other professionals in the industry.
Listen in as they delve into the importance of relationship-building, intentional decision-making, and the power of a well-maintained professional network.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in the financial industry looking to build their own success story.
Wade SlomeLinkedIn
Website
In this episode of RIA Collective, Mark Elzweig joins us to discuss the mechanics of making a successful transition to an independent advisor. He emphasizes the importance of due diligence and thoroughness in the process, as well as staying within guidelines and playing by the rules. Mark also highlights how the landscape of independence has shifted, making it easier and more lucrative for advisors to go independent than ever before. He encourages advisors to seek out legal advice and speak with current advisors at the firms they are considering, in order to fully understand the mechanics of the transition. Listen as Mark shares his wealth of knowledge and experience on the topic, and how it can lead to a successful and happy career as an independent advisor.
Mark Elzweig
LinkedIn
Website
Join host Charlie Van Derven as he speaks with Alan Ray, a financial advisor with a wealth of experience in the industry. Working with senior and elderly clients, Alan has no doubt that his work significantly impacts his clients and their loved ones. Alan got his start teaching economic and financial planning at Franklin University and quickly moved to the practicing side of the industry. In 2019 he founded Square Peg in Columbus, Ohio.
Tune in to learn more about Alan's journey to advising independence.
Alan RayLinkedIn
Website
In this episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven speaks with Paul Saad, founder of Collaboria Capital, about his journey to independence and the challenges he faced along the way. Paul discusses the importance of understanding the "why" behind the decision to go independent and the need to be true to oneself in the process. He also shares his thoughts on the importance of technology in the industry and the value of building a strong team. Throughout the conversation, Paul offers valuable advice to advisors considering a move to independence, highlighting the importance of having a solid plan and staying true to one's values.
Paul SaadLinkedIn
Website
In this episode of RIA Collective, host Charlie Van Derven is joined by financial advisor Jude McDonough to discuss the journey of transitioning from the banking world to the financial advising industry. Jude emphasizes the importance of putting the needs of your clients first, and how crucial it is to fully understand the households you are serving in order to truly act as a fiduciary. He speaks about the challenges and rewards of making the move to independence, and how it allows advisors to better serve their clients. Tune in to hear Jude's insights on the importance of prioritizing client relationships and the benefits of working independently in the financial industry.
Jude McDonoughLinkedIn
Website
This week Charlie talks with Cary Carbonaro, Director of Women and Wealth at Advisors Capital Management. Cary has more than two decades of advising experience and has had a winding path within the world of finance. Cary spent many years in a captive environment before she made the move to RIA. However, that independence was lost when Goldman bought out her firm and Cary found herself back in a wirehouse again. The loss of independence and freedom grated on Cary and she quickly made the switch back to an RIA. Now, with ACM, Cary can be there for her clients, be herself, and run her business how she wants to. Check out the links below to connect with Cary.
Cary CarbonaroLinkedIn
Website
This week Charlie sits down with Juan Munoz CFP®, AIF®, Founder of Life Strategy Financial.
Juan is a CFP focused on supporting his clients over anything else. Juan has worked in several different areas of the financial industry, but having the trust and confidence of his clients has always been the priority. After working several years in a traditional wirehouse environment with all the standard incentives and conflicts, Juan knew that he had to make a change. Since founding his RIA in 2019, Juan has had great success as a true fiduciary.
Juan MunozLinkedIn
Website
In this episode, Charlie speaks with Stacey Hyde, Founder of Envision Financial Planning. She has moved through several areas of financial services from banking to insurance and, now, financial planning. Charlie and Stacey trace her journey through the various realms of financial services, how she proved her skills and leadership potential early in her career, and how she finally found her ideal position as a dedicated financial planner at her own firm. Stacey serves as an excellent example of the path to success as an RIA in our industry.
Stacey HydeLinkedin
Website
This week Charlie talks with Johann Klassen, the CIO at Horizons SFS.
Johann has had a unique journey to the role of RIA. He was originally in higher education at Washington University in St. Louis where he earned his Phd. in 1998. From there he entered the financial industry as an advisor and worked for nearly a decade in various captive advisor environments. However, Johann found that many of the investments pushed by the firms ran counter to his strong ethical and moral code. That realization spurred his move to independence in 2013. Johann has since built Horizons SFS, an RIA that prioritizes the moral and ethical values of its clients in every investment decision they advise.
Johann KlaassenLinkedIn
Website
In this episode, Charlie speaks with Justin Long CFP®, Founder of Diazo Wealth Group.
Justin is much more than an advisor. In his own words, he is a bespoke financial concierge that truly goes above and beyond to support his clients in every aspect of their lives. Rather than just working with his clients on their investments or financial plans, Justin takes pride in being a one-stop shop for every life need that his client brings to his attention. Need a document at 11 pm for an emergency? Justin will pick up the phone. Do you want to have a financial plan to look at but are not ready to commit to an advisor? Diazo will produce one for you to help your financial outlook.
Justin is truly a fiduciary that takes pride in being the person that his clients can turn to when a critical need arises. And, if it's not in his wheelhouse, Justin has a network of excellent professionals to refer to that share his ethic of service.
It was an honor to do this interview with Justin and there are a ton of meaningful insights that can be drawn from this one. Justin is always ready to help, so be sure to reach out to him for trusted and well-sourced advice on any critical life topic.
Justin Long
LinkedIn
Website
Today Charlie sits down with John Gehri, VP at Harvest Financial Advisors.
They talk about John's journey through different areas of the financial industry, how he ended up with Harvest Financial, and how, with his help, clients can master their financial fortunes. John is a fiduciary that is painstaking in his efforts to leave no stone unturned on behalf of his clients. He gathers all possible information for his clients, but, at the end of the day, he believes in following his client's lead when it comes to the final decision.
John GehriLinkedIn
Website
This week on RIA Collective, Charlie talks with Marc Aarons, the founder of Money Managers Inc.
They discuss Marc's history in the automotive sales field, the struggles of that role, and how becoming an advisor and, later, a true fiduciary, has reduced his stress and given him an opportunity to truly support his clients every day.
Marc AaronsLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ocmoneymanagers/
Website: https://ocmoneymanagers.com/
Today Charlie sits down with Bob DePasquale, founder of Initiate Impact, a firm that provides purpose-driven families with modern financial management in a transparent and unbias fashion.
Charlie and Bob talk about his history in the broadcast industry, a mutual love of sports, and Bob's journey to becoming independent. His story has many twists and turns on the way to independent financial advisor, but the world is certainly a better place because of his inspirational work.
Make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!
Bob Depasquale
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobdepasquale/
Initiate Impact: https://initiateimpact.com/
This week Charlie sits down with McKenzie Frankel, a principal at Entrust Financial.
McKenzie was called to be an investment advisor since she was in grade school. Always interested in money, McKenzie's interest grew into a true passion to help people make the right financial decision at every step and in every area.
Charlie and McKenzie discuss her time working within the captive financial environment and the conflict between her passions and the bottom-line goals of the firm. Eventually, McKenzie found a partner who shared her vision and was able to move into an independent role. Since then she has been able to shape her company into the kind of firm that truly helps people.
McKenzie FrankelLinkedIn
Entrust Financial Website
Jeff's career has had a number of unexpected twists and turns. He has worked in an independent space and as a captive advisor. He has built a book of business in wealth management and helped a lot of companies with their benefits packages.
If you want to learn from those who have come before you, listen to this RIA Collective interview with Jeff Barnes. Jeff will give you a great perspective on the many opportunities within the industry.
In this episode of RIA Collective, Rachael Burns shares the life-changing events that led her to leave a successful team at Ameriprise to start her RIA, True Worth Financial Planning.
When we're young, we may not understand how precious our time is. For Rachael, family health issues made her take inventory of life and understand that starting her RIA created the flexibility she needed.
Charlie and Rachael talk about her experience at Morgan Stanley, Merrill Lynch, and Ameriprise before starting True Worth FP. They chat about life-changing events and how independence served Rachael, her family, and her clients in so many meaningful ways.
About Rachel
Rachael Burns is a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst based in Folsom, California. She is the founder of True Worth Financial Planning, which helps newly single women achieve financial independence after divorce or the death of a spouse. Through her own personal experience navigating trauma and finances, she found her calling -- to support and empower other women during the most challenging transitions of their lives.
https://trueworthfp.com/
In this important episode of RIA Collective, Charlie interviews leading breakaway attorney Corey Kupfer. Corey offers his tips and insight to help you break away from the large firms with less friction and greater success.
Charlie and Corey discuss authenticity, negotiations, and the key considerations as financial advisors stuck in a bad situation progress toward joining or opening an RIA.
My interview with Brian Carney, Co-founder of RiversEdge Advisors, LLC was eye-opening for so many reasons.
Brian has a great podcast called Happy Half Hour with an Entrepreneur where he shares the stories of prominent business owners with his listeners. He also reviews a beer on each episode. Want to know our favorite malted beverage? Tune in.
Brian and I talk about the struggles of building a team, and the rewards once the right pieces are in place.
Check out this casual chat to learn more about the nitty-gritty of building a practice and playing to the strengths of your team members.
Sean Polley has seen so much throughout his 20+ year career in financial services. Today's episode of RIA Collective focuses on the main drivers for Sean to break away from the banks and start Polley Wealth Management.
Sean and Charlie pose the question, "can you be a captive advisor and a fiduciary?" With quotas, biased products and services, and incentives that push you to work with the wrong clients, it has to be difficult to serve both the client and the firm.
Description: In this episode of RIA Collective, Charlie is joined by Dennis Snoozy, Founder and President of SNP Financial Advisors.
Throughout his almost 30-year career in financial services, Dennis Snoozy has a lot of hats. From Financial Advisor to Regional Manager, and now with his RIA, Dennis brings a variety of experiences that will benefit advisors thinking about change.
Tune into this episode of RIA Collective to learn from an industry vet who has been through it all.
Jeff Concepcion, CEO of Stratos Wealth Partners, and Charlie Van Derven talk about the freedom of independence. The choices you have, from world-class technology to a full variety of products and services, provide autonomy and the ability to be a true fiduciary to your clients.
If you're thinking about a move to an Independent Broker Dealer or RIA, this episode is for you. Learn from Jeff's experience in helping 300+ advisors realize their dream of independence.
Brian George formed Planning Network Partners, LLC in 2022 because he believed that his methodology of developing a tight network of seasoned professionals in different fields of finance could benefit other Financial Advisors.
In 2021, he created Charitable Planning Network, LLC to help Financial Advisors bring greater value to their clients while delivering more gifts to their clients’ favorite charities. Charitable giving motivated his work, but he also believed that clients could benefit through this collaboration. He formed Planning Network Partners as a RIA in order to help other Financial Advisors capitalize on the growing network of finance professionals.
As a 20-year veteran of the Navy, hailing from the Big Apple originally — specifically the Bronx — he moved to the private sector to work as a Programmer/Analyst and to manage a field office for a subsidiary of a multi-national firm, running their largest IT project, an Enterprise Application for the U.S. Navy, and their Bremerton Field Office. He continued that work after starting his own IT Consultancy, phunghi, inc., and added Strategic Planning for a Boeing Division involved in a Public/Private Partnership with the U.S. Government.
In 1987 he worked as a part-time Navy Relief Counselor teaching young sailors about budgeting and getting out of debt. This experience drove a desire in him to help people manage their finances and a career as a Financial Advisor.
As a Financial Advisor he enjoyed networking with specialists in a variety of fields and learning how their financial tools could work in tandem with other Advisors.
He, his wife and three children now reside in the Puget Sound area of Western Washington. In addition to the roles of husband and father, some of his duties include community theater, playing Bass Guitar, singing in bands, and working with organizations that support Elementary through Undergraduate education.
Connect with Brian:
https://planningnetworkpartners.com
Kelly Olczak, CFP®, Co-Founder, Lynn Leigh and Company, a Registered Investment Advisory Firm
Description: Industry veteran Kelly Olczak, CFP®, Co-Founder of LynnLeigh & Co, Inc. walks us through her journey from a technology career to Financial Services. During the past 20 years, Kelly grew with Edward Jones, transitioned to LPL, and started her own RIA. According to Kelly, sufficient planning helped her transition smoothly. Learn how to plan for change.
Are you a financial advisor stuck with a firm that no longer serves your needs, fits your ideals, or gives you the flexibility to serve your clients as a true fiduciary? That is a tricky place to be, but rest assured, you’re not alone.
RIA Collective Podcast is created with you in mind. We interview leaders at Registered Investment Advisory firms to learn from their wisdom and experience. It is our goal to take the fear and mystery out of going independent.
Most of the industry leaders we talk with were in the exact same place you find yourself today. They too saw themselves as entrepreneurs. They became an advisor to create flexibility in their lives and help many others create financial security and peace of mind.
Like you, those professionals become stifled by their captive environment. Sales quotas, proprietary products and services, the firm’s agenda, compliance, and other factors can make it difficult to grow and to act as a true fiduciary to your clients.
RIA Collective podcast is hosted by Charlie Van Derven, an industry veteran who has been serving the advisor community for almost 25 years. During his time working in Financial Services, Charlie has seen trends come and go. One trend that continues with no end in sight, is the migration of advisors from the captive wire-house space to independence.
The move to independence can go smoothly, or it can be a battle. Tune in to RIA Collective podcast to learn from industry leaders how to set your practice up for a smooth transition. Learn important things to consider and actions to take 3, 6, 12, or 18 months ahead of your move. Learn how to solidify key client relationships so you can retain the assets you’ve built.
If you are an advisor considering a change or an industry leader who is building their firm and has wisdom to share, we would love to talk to you.
Visit RIAcollective.com for more information or reach out to Charlie directly on LinkedIn.
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