Retirement Inside Out with Tom Lamendola

We’re very excited to have our friend, Mark Gaffney, on the show today. Mark is the founder and owner of Mark Edward Gaffney (MEG), a boutique consulting and marketing firm for the financial services industry, and partner of FIG. In today’s episode, he’s joining us to talk about the data-driven marketing approaches that MEG uses to generate significant returns for financial advisors.

Stay tuned as Mark shares some of MEG’s success stories, demonstrating the power that even the smallest of tweaks to your marketing process can have. You’ll also get a sneak peek into the upcoming launch of FIG TV, powered by MEG’s turnkey marketing system. Join us to learn more about this process and the incredible benefits that TV marketing can bring to the right advisor!

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Mark’s history in marketing for financial advisors + the impact of minor adjustments to your marketing process
• The importance of paying attention to data in the current business landscape and being coachable
• The power of events (seminars and webinars) and database management marketing for financial firms
• The upcoming launch of FIG TV, the right candidates for this kind of service + the limited slots available with MEG

Learn more about MEG

https://markedwardgaffney.com/

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

We are delighted to welcome Amanda Sharratt, the Chief Operating Officer and financial advisor at Whitaker Myers Wealth Managers Ltd, to the show. We recently connected with Amanda and are excited for her to share her journey into the financial services industry, shed light on her role as COO, and share some valuable tips for our listeners.

Listen in as Amanda discusses how Whitaker Myers leverages technology, including tools like PreciseFP, to streamline their processes effectively. We’ll also explore the firm’s team structure and talent acquisition strategies, which have been instrumental in attracting top-notch talent and staying ahead in the industry.

Amanda brings some awesome insights to the table- this is one you don’t want to miss!

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• How Amanda found her passion for finance and pivoted from dentistry to financial advising with the Whitaker Myers team
• What Amanda’s role and responsibilities are as the Chief Operating Officer at Whitaker Myers
• How Amanda and her team use the application PreciseFP and workflows in Redtail CRM to stay organized and efficient
• Whitaker Myers’ office structure + noteworthy recruitment strategies that include internships, a dedicated careers page, and utilizing platforms like Schwab's RIAConnect

Learn more about Amanda and Whitaker Myers Welath Managers Ltd:

https://www.whitakerwealth.com/

https://www.whitakerwealth.com/our-team/amanda-sharratt

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

Brian Herriot is the founder of Choosy Consultant. He’s joining us on the podcast today to discuss his role as a lifestyle and wealth coach, working with successful individuals like consultants, coaches, and small business owners, to help them transition to a choosier life and achieve financial freedom.

In our conversation, Brian shares his personal journey to financial freedom and how it led him to establish Choosy Consultant. He’ll share more about his unique coaching approach, which includes a one-week intensive session covering topics such as vision-setting, savings and investing, transitioning work to part-time, and emotional readiness. Tune in to learn more about how Brian helps individuals design a remarkable life and achieve financial freedom on their own terms!

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Brian’s transition from a traditional full-time job to becoming a lifestyle and wealth coach
• A need for a new sense of purpose and belonging at age 40
• What it looks like to participate in Brian’s coaching program
• How to get involved with Brian’s coaching program + his financial freedom quiz and private podcast

Learn more about Brian and Choosy Consultant:

https://www.choosyconsultant.com/

The Financial Freedom Accelerator Quiz

https://brian-xecsfp1i.scoreapp.com/

Choosy Consultant Secret Podcast

https://app.helloaudio.fm/feed/c7345ee0-08a2-4985-a353-6c168493592f/signup

Leslie Lipscomb, Senior Vice President at FIG, joins us for this week’s episode. She’s here to share her inspiring journey since joining the organization in 2006, starting as a sales associate and progressing to her current role. Join us as she highlights the company's resilience and growth after the passing of its thought leader, Bo Johnson, and her passion for building strong relationships, advocating for advisors, and uplifting women in the field.  

We’ll dive more into Leslie’s role as SVP, which focuses on empowering and serving advisors to build efficient and refined firms and learn more about her involvement in the book Financial Trendsetters- an anthology featuring stories from 15 women in financial services. Don't miss the pre-order details for the book below and this great conversation with Leslie!

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Leslie’s 20-year journey at FIG from a sales associate to Senior Vice President + the impact of Bo Johnson’s mentorship
• What Leslie’s role as the Senior Vice President at FIG entails
• Leslie’s passion for building relationships with people in the field + empowering women in financial their careers
• Leslie’s experience contributing to the book, Financial Trendsetters + receiving the Bo Johnson Award in 2023

Pre-order the book, Financial Trendsetters

https://jessicaweaver.com/financial-trendsetters/

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

We’ve got a great conversation for you today! Ben and Kaitlin Schrock, two of our elevate coaches here at FIG and founders of BA Schrock Financial Group, are here to dive into their journey of building a successful RIA firm from the ground up. They’ll discuss the challenges they faced, the pivotal moments that shaped their journey, and the strategies they employed to achieve remarkable growth.

Stay tuned to learn how they navigated the initial struggles of business ownership, built a highly efficient team, and implemented effective marketing strategies to propel their business to new heights. Ben and Kaitlin have some powerful insights for financial professionals looking to scale their businesses and cultivate lasting success. If you’re looking to take your practice to the next level, this episode is sure to inspire!

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Ben and Kaitlin’s journey into financial advisory services + how they’ve worked to propel BA Schrock Financial Group into success
• Navigating the transition to independent advisory + how Ben and Kaitlin have found a balance between corporate training and entrepreneurial spirit
• How BA Schock’s marketing efforts have evolved + the importance of nurturing client relationships and community involvement
• The value of opportunistic hiring + bringing in individuals who align with your firm’s goals

Learn more about Ben and Kaitlin:

https://baschrock-fg.com/team/

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

Arron Price, the Chief Operating Officer at FIG, joins us today for our annual beginning-of-the-year prognostication. Get ready for insights into what lies ahead in financial services, InsurTech, data culture, and operations. We’ll look back on the predictions and forecasts he made for 2023 and explore how the industry has evolved.

To kick off our discussion, we’ll revisit Arron’s forecast that the “great resignation” would be forgotten in 2023 and chat about the evolving mindset of different generations in the workforce. Then, we’ll focus on the industry's remarkable operational scalability achievements in 2023 and shift toward real-time data access, transparency, and ultra-personalization in the world of marketing.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Arron’s prediction that the “great resignation” would be forgotten in 2023 + the mindset shifts of both younger and older generations regarding retirement and work
• The impressive performance of insurance operations in 2023+ the growing role of AI in achieving greater efficiencies
• Why real-time data access is the next crucial step in operational efficiency  
• The shift towards comprehensive marketing plans and ultra-personalization in the coming years

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

Tony Parish, CFA, CQF, the Chief Investment Officer at AlphaStar Capital Management, is with us for today’s episode. He joins us twice a year to talk about the state of the market and share his halftime report. Stay tuned as we dive into market updates, the US and world economy, and get a glimpse into Tony’s market forecasts for 2024.

We’ll kick off this episode by reflecting on the remarkable resilience of the economy and the markets in 2023. Then, we’ll talk about the impact of inflation on our day-to-day expenses, the likelihood of market surprises in the upcoming year, and discuss the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence in the financial industry.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• The market’s unexpected resilience in 2023 + how economists measure inflation and how consumers perceive it
• Why investors may face disappointment in 2024 with more modest returns
• Unforeseen events and surprises may play a significant role in shaping the economic landscape throughout the year
• How politics will impact the markets globally in 2024
• AI’s impact on the financial markets

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

We're excited to feature David Graham, the Director of Advanced Strategies at FIG, on the podcast today. David plays a crucial role in educating advisors on advanced planning concepts that go beyond day-to-day financial planning. Today, he's here to give us insights into the upcoming estate planning webinar series hosted by FIG's Advanced Strategies division.

This series covers everything from the basics of estate planning to intricate strategies involving trusts, life insurance, and tax-efficient transfers. The aim is to provide advisors with a thorough understanding of advanced planning techniques so that they can better serve their clients.

If you're curious about how advanced strategies can elevate your financial planning expertise and want to learn more, stay tuned!

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• The estate planning topics that season 2 of David’s advanced strategies webinar series will focus on
• How this series is designed to help advisors improve their expertise and offer valuable solutions to clients of all net worths
• The process for advisors interested in attending the estate planning seminar series

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

Welcome to the first official episode of 2024! We’re thrilled to be joined by Lisa Crosta, CFP®, CPA, MBA, this week, the Director of Wealth Management at BPP Wealth Solutions. She’s here to share her journey into financial services and insights into BPP’s comprehensive financial planning process, collaborative team structure, and Security Income Plan®.

Lisa also shares her passion for educating and empowering female investors. As an all-women firm, BPP Wealth Solutions is uniquely positioned to cater to women's financial needs and ensure they are well informed about their investments, income, and retirement plans.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Lisa’s financial career + passion for developing intimate client relationships
• BPP Wealth Solutions’ process, which starts with a comprehensive financial plan and goes on to build a roadmap for building, protecting, and preserving wealth
• BPP Wealth’s collaborative process, training efforts, and note-taking procedures
• Why BPP chose to start charging for their financial plans + the value this change has brought to their clients
• BPP Wealth Solutions' commitment to financial awareness among female investors

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

As the world continues to technologically evolve, staying ahead of the curve in the financial services industry has never been more crucial. Andrew Barnett, the Director of Technology Innovation at FIG, joins us on the podcast today to talk to us about his role and the important technology and business solutions being developed inside FIG.

From the industry's race to modernize and embrace emerging technologies to the evolving intersection of wealth management and insurance, Andrew talks about the pressing need for a more seamless customer experience. Stay tuned as we explore the impact of tools like AI, share a behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing efforts to enhance the user experience, and reflect on the exciting yet demanding journey of the financial industry's technological evolution.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• What Andrew’s role entails, including collaboration with the engineering team to enhance the customer and client experience and integrating AI
• The need for the insurance sector to catch up and modernize, the rapid growth of tools available for financial professionals, and creating a more seamless experience for users with a unified platform
• The new platform that FIG recently rolled out + plans for the future to continue streamlining processes for financial professionals
• FIG's attention to security and compliance as the industry continues to innovate
• The rising prominence of AI in the insurance technology landscape

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

Hamilton Morales, our Senior Vice President and Social Security Specialist here at FIG, joins us for today’s episode. We love having him on once or twice a year to update our audience on what’s happening inside the world of Social Security. In today’s episode, we’ll discuss the latest news for Social Security in 2024, including the 3.2% cost of living adjustment, rising Medicare Part B premiums, and the importance of comprehensive retirement planning to combat inflation and changing financial landscapes.

We also dive into the value of partnering with experts like Hamilton to provide clients with the best information and guidance on the ever-changing world of Social Security. Learn more about the presentations he offers, including Social Security seminars and webinars, as well as his new membership with the Society of Financial Awareness (SOFA) to offer even more educational opportunities for advisors and clients.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Social Security COLA for 2024 is announced at 3.2%, which may not be sufficient to cover the rising Medicare Part B premiums
• How can retirees address the challenge of inflation and rising expenses?
• The Social Security presentations that Hamilton has been putting on this year + what’s to come in 2024
• The value of partnering with experts like Hamilton to provide clients with the best information and guidance regarding Social Security

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

This week we are joined by the founder and president of Illuminated Advisors, Anna Shea, to dive deep into the world of digital marketing in the financial services industry. She will discuss the path that led her to establish a boutique digital marketing firm, the power of personalized content, and share some insightful strategies to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

As Anna offers her unique perspective on what's hot within this dynamic realm, we also delve into the exciting possibilities of AI in marketing. You might be surprised to find out that you've been interacting with AI in your digital experiences for longer than you think. 

Thanks for listening and hope you enjoy the show!

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Anna’s career background + what inspired her to start Illuminated Advisors
• How having a dedicated marketing or COO person in a financial advisory firm can improve efficiency + success
• Adapting to new marketing strategies and technologies while maintaining the personal touch that financial advisors provide
• The importance of creating a personalized and resonating experience for website users through original and consistent content

Learn more about Anna and Illuminated Advisors:

https://illuminatedadvisors.com/

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

Welcome back to the Retirement Inside Out podcast! Today are joined by FIG’s Talent Solutions team to talk about generational differences in the workplace and the changing landscape of talent acquisition. Tune in as we chat with Lori Miller and Alex Batdorf about how to effectively identify, attract, and retain next generation talent for your independent financial professional or financial services firm.

The conversation covers various aspects of hiring and working with the next generation of talent, including their unique communication styles, preferences for transparency in compensation, and the importance of flexibility. We also discuss the evolving expectations candidates have during interviews, such as the need for clear salary discussions and the impact of technology on the hiring process.

Join us for valuable insights into talent strategy in the ever-changing landscape of the financial services industry!

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Business owners and hiring managers need to adapt to changing times and evolving generational expectations. The job market has shifted, and businesses should evolve their talent strategies accordingly.
• Next-gen talent, in particular, values open communication about salary, benefits, and expectations.
• The younger generation values flexibility in their work arrangements. Having the option for remote work, flexible hours, or mental health days can be a significant attraction for them.
• Next-gen workers are comfortable with technology, and they expect companies to provide up-to-date tools and systems. Outdated technology can deter them from considering a job opportunity.
• Employers should think about ways to retain their current employees. Addressing issues like salary competitiveness, growth opportunities, and benefits can help prevent valuable employees from seeking new opportunities elsewhere.

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

Join us for a conversation with FIG Chief Strategy Officer Nicholas Ross, where we tackle the need for strategic thinking in the financial professional world. We discuss everything from the impact of global economic trends on your clients to the importance of owning your narrative in your financial business. Tune in to gain insight on how to stay ahead of the curve in this ever-evolving industry, the need to operate at both macro and micro levels, and the importance of becoming the CEO of your firm.

The episode also puts a spotlight on the significance of continuous education and learning for financial advisors. Ross stresses the value of staying updated with key concepts and building relationships with key partners. Plus, you'll discover why it's vital to control the information your clients receive, and how this aids in fostering a trusted advisor relationship. So, don't miss out on this episode filled with strategies, tactics, and tips to help you succeed in the financial world.

Here is an overview of what we discuss in this episode:

• The importance of understanding the macro and micro influences of the economy and how this plays into effective strategy and decision-making.
• Why advisors should prioritize learning and staying updated with key concepts in the industry.
• Proactively providing valuable and timely information allows you to control the narrative and build trust with clients.
• How to utilize digital platforms to communicate effectively with clients and distribute necessary information.

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

We are back with FIG’s Executive Vice President, Dave Henry. He’s bringing us a quarterly life insurance industry update in today’s episode. Tune in as we discuss advancements in technology that are revolutionizing the insurance industry, from precise illustration systems to streamlined policy management.

We also delve into how insurance carriers are responding to new regulations like AG 49-A and AG 49-B while maintaining fairness for all clients. Then we’ll chat about the rising interest and popularity in advanced planning strategies, due to changing regulations and market dynamics. We wrap up this episode by discussing the value of the advanced strategies team at FIG, which specializes in helping clients with complex needs.

Here is an overview of what we discuss in this episode:

• Innovative technology that offers accurate projections and policy management tools while streamlining processes, benefiting both financial professionals and clients
• Insurance carriers' response to new regulations like AG 49-A and AG 49-B 
• The increasing interest in advanced planning strategies among advisors and clients with the changing regulations and shift in wealth dynamics
• The importance of collaboration between financial advisors and subject matter experts

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

Today we’re excited to be joined by Monica Breeding, our Director of Marketing at FIG, who is here to talk to us about our upcoming ElevateU branding and coaching event. This event, designed to help improve and scale your business, is taking place in St. Louis on September 17^th, 18^th, and 19^th.

We are especially excited about this ElevateU event, as it features a stacked lineup of industry experts and introduces two brand-new programs designed to boost your marketing efforts. Discover the power of customized content that sets you apart in the digital landscape, learn about lead generation strategies, and explore the benefits of artificial intelligence in streamlining your outreach. Attendees will also have the opportunity to network and receive one-on-one coaching from successful advisors who have been through the trials and tribulations of growing their practices.

Tune in for more inside tips on why you need to be at this incredible event!

Here are some key takeaways from this episode:

• The upcoming ElevateU event will offer insights on brand building, digital marketing, database marketing, and lead generation from industry experts and successful advisors.

• Two new marketing programs will be introduced at ElevateU, focusing on branding, database marketing, and lead generation. These programs are digitally inclined and aim to help businesses reach their target audience more effectively.

• The event will also offer coaching programs and insights from model offices. Attendees can choose the program that suits their business needs, whether it's a total firm transformation or minor adjustments to enhance business.

• Attendees will also have the opportunity to network and attend a St. Louis Cardinals baseball game, offering a mix of professional development and leisure activities.

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

Welcome back to the Retirement Inside Out podcast! Today, we are excited to be joined by, Arron Price, Chief Operating Officer of FIG. In this episode, we explore how organizations like FIG and other financial services firms are leveraging agile project methodology to empower their teams, enhance efficiency, and provide remarkable results and deliverables for clients and stakeholders. Aaron provides valuable insights into the benefits of agile project methodology, its potential applications in various industries, and the importance of proper implementation to drive successful outcomes.

Join the conversation as we explore the origins of agile, its evolution, and its application in technology, marketing, and more in the financial services industry. If you're curious about how agility is transforming industries and problem-solving approaches, this episode is for you!

Here are some key takeaways from this episode:

• Learn about the concept of agility and agile project methodology, which emerged from the need to adapt quickly in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

• Agile project methodology involves breaking down large tasks into manageable segments, focusing on value creation at every stage. It emphasizes adaptability, continuous refinement, and learning from previous iterations to enhance overall effectiveness.

• Adopting agile practices fosters collaboration and teamwork within organizations, helping to deliver impactful results and maintain client-centric approaches

• For successful implementation, buy-in from all levels of the organization is essential. Change management is necessary to help employees transition from traditional project methods to agile practices.

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

Welcome back to the Retirement Inside Out podcast! In today's episode, we are joined by the Chief Investment Officer at Alphastar Capital Management, a member of the FIG operating system, Tony Parish, CFA, CQF. He’s here to share his half-time report with us today, providing valuable insights on the state of the market and more.

Tony will kick off this episode by sharing his analysis of the first six months of 2023, which have been vastly different from the challenging year of 2022. He discusses the strength of the US consumer, the decline in inflation, and the overall positive state of the labor market, providing reasons to be optimistic about the economic outlook.

With election day right around the corner, Tony cautions investors against making investment decisions based on political speculation and reiterates the importance of focusing on long-term strategies. The discussion also delves into the role of artificial intelligence in the financial industry. Tony highlights that AI can be a powerful tool to assist professional money managers but doesn't replace the human element of judgment, experience, and adaptability in investing.

Here’s some of what we’ll discuss in this episode:  

• 2023 has been a positive surprise in the markets, with all segments performing well except commodities + The normalization of interest rates, and concerns about a recession. (2:59)
• The likelihood of a recession in 2023 has decreased significantly + Updates on inflation and the Federal Reserve’s efforts to orchestrate a soft landing. (7:30)
• Unemployment is close to a multigenerational low + The changing nature of work where flexibility and control are more normalized. (14:43)
• Investors should not make investment decisions based on political beliefs or election outcomes. (19:13)
• How might the increased use of AI impact the markets? (24:05)

Learn More about Tony: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-parish-cfa-cqf-6b178b13/

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

Welcome back to the Retirement Inside Out podcast! In today's episode, we have the pleasure of having Mike Lecours, CFP®, co-founder of fpPathfinder, join us. fpPathfinder is an incredible resource for financial professionals, offering a wide range of tools and resources, including checklists, flowcharts, and optimized client and prospect meetings. With over 4000 financial professionals benefiting from this remarkable technology, Mike is here to share how it has revolutionized practice management.

This innovative FinTech and efficiency system has quickly become a game-changer, enabling advisors to reclaim their time and focus on meaningful client interactions. We're thrilled to delve deeper into the world of fpPathfinder and explore how it brings efficiency and strategic value to the financial sector. So stay tuned for an enlightening conversation with Mike as we discuss the utilization of these tools, the implementation of personalized and engaging content as an advisor, client retention strategies, and much more.

Here’s some of what we’ll discuss in this episode:  

• How fpPathfinder got started and what kind of resources it provides. (1:46)
• How does an advisor use these tools in their business? (5:57)
• Providing value for prospective and existing clients. (11:26)   
• What’s in the future for fpPathfinder? (13:38)
• Client retention through personalized, engaging content and feedback. (17:07)

Learn more about Mike: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaellecours

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155

Welcome back to the Retirement Inside Out podcast! Today we are joined by two very special guests, president of Independent Property & Casualty Group, Matt Woodford, and president of U.S. E & O Brokers, Angela Schroder. They are sitting down with us to talk about all things Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance- from making sure you have the right coverage to how often you should review your coverage. As your business grows and carriers and policies change over time, this is a critical step that you do not want to miss. 

Join us as Matt and Angela take a deep dive into the misconceptions and risks associated with inadequate insurance, emphasizing the need for comprehensive evaluation, and understanding of policies. With real-life examples and practical insights, they highlight the significance of E&O coverage and the importance of understanding policy exclusions, claims triggers, and more.

 Here’s some of what we’ll discuss in this episode: 

• Considering the business type, revenue, and comprehensive protection for the organization, rather than individual employees. (3:09)
• Seeking expert advice and reviewing your insurance coverage when there are changes in your business is critical. (9:53)
• The importance of understanding policy details, exclusions, and claims triggers to ensure adequate protection + annual reviews. (17:01)   
• Do not just pay for the policy, make sure it’s the right one. (23:43)
• Angela’s recommendation for those retiring from their business and looking to protect their family and estate moving forward. (28:40)
• Matt shares about the new program offered through IPCG to help financial professionals understand the E&O space. (31:30)

Learn more about Matt:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-woodford-b081371/

Learn more about Angela:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-schroder-1a288a37/

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com 

800-527-1155