The Power of Referrals in Driving Business Growth with Randy Hardy

Digital communication has largely replaced traditional communication, but putting pen to paper still holds deep and timeless meaning. The simplicity and sincerity encapsulated within a handwritten letter are unparalleled, transcending the boundaries of modernity. Despite instant messaging and emails, handwritten notes are a remarkable way to convey kindness, encouragement, and the desire for genuine connection. In this episode, Steve talks with Elizabeth Cottrell. Elizabeth is the award-winning author of HEARTSPOKEN: How to Write Notes That Connect, Comfort, Encourage, and Inspire. Elizabeth's career has taken her from published leprosy researcher to stay-at-home mom, community leader serving on nonprofit and corporate boards, ham radio operator, writer, editor, and blogger. Her expertise and passion for note writing came at just the right time to touch a pandemic world desperately in search of connection.  An experienced technical and nonfiction writer and editor, Elizabeth talks with Steve about the simple yet often underutilized communication method of handwritten notes. She shares stories about the power of handwritten, heart-spoken notes and reveals her note-writing formula to inspire others.   Key Takeaways [02:39] - What inspired Elizabeth to write the book, HEARTSPOKEN. [05:46] - How HEARTSPOKEN connects with the practice of writing notes and messages for others. [10:14] - Why the advisor and people business is not a money business. [11:58] - The power of handwritten notes in sales and advisory practices. [15:52] - What it takes to write a note. [17:39] - Elizabeth's secret notes formula. [20:38] - How handwritten notes compare to technology-delivered notes. [22:19] - Elizabeth's recommendation on how often to write notes. [25:07] - The advice Elizabeth gives when writing notes. [30:39] - What drives Elizabeth to pursue her passion every day.   Quotes [10:33] - "We need to get our customers or prospects to know, like, and trust us. But until we treat them as people and we interact with them and cultivate that human-to-human relationship, that kind of relationship is not going to happen." ~ Elizabeth Cottrell [15:28] - "If you get a note from somebody you've done business with, that unexpected touch makes you stand out and can help develop those relationships over time." ~ Elizabeth Cottrell [31:26] - "When I can empower somebody, and I can see the light go on that they realize that this pen and paper are a powerful, effective, and inexpensive connection tool that they can use to spread their own kindness and their own encouragement and their own connection, then that completes the circle for me. It's a circle of connection. It's good for me, and it's good for business." ~ Elizabeth Cottrell   Links  Elizabeth Cottrell on LinkedIn Elizabeth Cottrell on Twitter Heartspoken HEARTSPOKEN by Elizabeth Cottrell on Amazon Bruce Herbert Douglas Conant Campbell Soup Company All the Best by George Bush 25 Inspirations and Prompts for writing HEARTSPOKEN Notes and Letters   Connect with our hosts Steve on LinkedIn Buckingham Strategic Partners   Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Steve on LinkedIn Follow Buckingham Strategic Partners on Twitter   Disclosure For informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as specific investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Certain information is based upon third party data which may become outdated or otherwise superseded without notice. Third party information is deemed to be reliable, but its accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. Some analysis presented is based off current economic information and may become outdated or irrelevant without notice. Individuals should speak with their qualified financial professional based on his or her unique circumstances. Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) nor any other federal or state agency have approved, determined the accuracy, or confirmed the adequacy of this podcast. © 2022 Buckingham Wealth Partners, LLC. Buckingham Strategic Wealth, LLC and Buckingham Strategic Partners, LLC (collectively, Buckingham Wealth Partners)

The transition of ownership within a firm can be a challenging process for both clients and advisors alike. It's at this point where the delicate balance of trust, transparency, and open communication becomes so important. While a change in ownership or leadership can stir feelings of uncertainty and concern, advisors who have established trust and transparency with their clients are better equipped to handle these changes. In this episode, Steve talks with Matthew Delaney, Managing Partner at JDH Wealth Management. His passion is working with people and helping them get their arms around their financial world. Having left Smith Barney (now Morgan Stanley) in 2005, Matt brought his knowledge of big-box financial advising to the boutique firm of JDH Wealth. His firm is now close to $400 million in collective assets. A second-generation financial advisor, Matt talks with Steve about navigating the big changes in transitioning and owning an advisory business. He shares his insights on what he learned that works and doesn't work when going through an ownership change. Matt also discusses the importance of transparency and open communication in client relationships during the transition process and the value of being involved in all aspects of the business.   Key Takeaways [01:54] - How JDH Wealth Management was founded. [06:01] - The lessons Matt learned from his experience working in the brokerage industry. [10:29] - An overview of the team at JDH Wealth Management. [11:33] - The client profile that is best suited for JDH's services. [12:40] - The process of changing ownership for JDH. [17:50] - What worked and what didn't when Matt took over JDH. [21:57] - The challenges related to the process of transitioning advisors. [25:25] - The mindset of staying involved and trusting the process of others. [30:52] - How Matt handles difficult clients. [37:26] - What motivates Matt to feel enthusiastic about the work he does for his clients?   Quotes [08:55] - "I've told advisors on the broker side that it's not that clients mind paying fees. The problem is that they're often hidden." ~ Matthew Delaney [25:52] - "It's so important for advisors to have a sense of what goes on day-to-day and behind the scenes and be close to the details that are the backbone of our business." ~ Matthew Delaney [31:21] - "Over the years, I've gotten better at recognizing that life is too short to work with people you don't want to work with or don't let you do your job." ~ Matthew Delaney   Links  Matthew Delaney on LinkedIn JDH Wealth Management Adam Birenbaum Your Retirement Bodyguard   Connect with our host Steve on LinkedIn Buckingham Strategic Partners   Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Steve on LinkedIn Follow Buckingham Strategic Partners  onTwitter   Disclosure For informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as specific investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Certain information is based upon third party data which may become outdated or otherwise superseded without notice. Third party information is deemed to be reliable, but its accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. Some analysis presented is based off current economic information and may become outdated or irrelevant without notice. Individuals should speak with their qualified financial professional based on his or her unique circumstances. Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) nor any other federal or state agency have approved, determined the accuracy, or confirmed the adequacy of this podcast. © 2022 Buckingham Wealth Partners, LLC. Buckingham Strategic Wealth, LLC and Buckingham Strategic Partners, LLC (collectively, Buckingham Wealth Partners)

Advisors, much like educators, understand the importance of clear communication. They attempt to simplify complex concepts without diluting their essence. Pursuing this solution drives advisors to explore innovative ways to engage, educate, and empower their clients. In this episode, Steve talks with Ross Riskin, Chief Learning Officer at Investments & Wealth Institute as well as Founder and Chief Creative Officer at visiWealth. Ross is recognized as a thought leader and expert in tax planning, college planning, student loan advising, and advice engagement. At visiWealth, Ross helps advisors and financial professionals access high-quality visuals of wealth management and financial planning concepts and strategies that are advisor-driven and client-focused.   With the goal of helping advisors enhance their teaching level, Ross talks to Steve about the importance of advisors learning the many ways clients learn to help with adding ways they teach their solutions. He emphasizes using visuals to simplify complex concepts and bridge the understanding gap between family members across generations. Ross also shares the three C's framework— comprehension, curation, and communication, as a guide for advisors to effectively educate their clients.   Key Takeaways [03:05] - What inspired Ross to help advisors become better teachers? [05:23] - The three C's for simplifying and communicating financial information. [09:00] - The importance of having a system for curating and storing content. [11:37] - How advisors can earn the trust of investors. [17:17] - How life cards can help in the client's discovery process. [20:49] - The significance of timing when providing advice. [22:36] - Why visuals are important in helping people understand financial planning strategies. [23:45] - How visiWealth uses visuals to help advisors deliver advice. [27:57] - Common mistakes advisors make when giving advice. [30:30] - How advisors can leverage technology to do things that matter most. [35:40] - What motivates Ross to keep going each day.   Quotes [04:06] - "We, as advisors, are trying to find that simple solution to how we communicate and get things across. We are also looking for scalability and standardization to get more efficient to serve more people." ~ Ross Riskin [07:22] - "You can't be an effective receiver of knowledge without comprehension. And you can't be an effective giver of knowledge if you don't know where people are at."~ Ross Riskin [12:37] - "There still are high trust levels in teachers and educators to some degree that have been there for decades. So, how do you gain that trust as an advisor? It's a knowledge transfer. It's trust in a relationship. It's 'I'm here to help you but also here to listen to you.'" ~ Ross Riskin   Links  Ross Riskin on LinkedIn Investments & Wealth Institute visiWealth American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Adam Holt Asset-Map   Connect with our hosts Steve on LinkedIn Buckingham Strategic Partners   Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Steve on LinkedIn Follow Buckingham Strategic Partners on Twitter   Disclosure For informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as specific investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Certain information is based upon third party data which may become outdated or otherwise superseded without notice. Third party information is deemed to be reliable, but its accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. Some analysis presented is based off current economic information and may become outdated or irrelevant without notice. Individuals should speak with their qualified financial professional based on his or her unique circumstances. Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) nor any other federal or state agency have approved, determined the accuracy, or confirmed the adequacy of this podcast. © 2022 Buckingham Wealth Partners, LLC. Buckingham Strategic Wealth, LLC and Buckingham Strategic Partners, LLC (collectively, Buckingham Wealth Partners)

Numbers can often obscure the essence of wealth. However, the heart of wealth management lies in the stories, dreams, and aspirations of the individuals underlying the figures. In this episode, Steve talks with Michael Mahoney, Owner of Cypress Asset Management. Before becoming a wealth manager, Michael had a successful business in commercial insurance. His life experiences as an entrepreneur in insurance and financial planning eventually led him to his calling — to serve a select group of clients as a fee-only, fiduciary, strategic life-wealth planner. Michael is confident that a financial plan based on the client's unique goals, values, and relationships reduces risk and increases financial security. With over 30 years of experience in insurance and financial planning, Michael shares with Steve how he transitioned from the insurance business to wealth management. He discusses the challenges he faced during the 2008 financial crisis and the lessons he learned from that experience. Michael also emphasizes the importance of focusing on the planning aspect of wealth management and building strong relationships with clients and their families.   Key Takeaways [01:47] - The role Cypress Asset Management plays in wealth advisory. [04:15] - How Michael got into the wealth management space. [05:37] - Why Michael transitioned from insurance to wealth management. [07:36] - The challenges Michael faced when he launched his firm. [08:42] - The biggest lesson Michael learned during the recession. [10:03] - How Michael discovered Dimensional Fund Advisors. [13:39] - Michael's client experience with portfolio planning. [15:27] - The importance of engaging multiple generations in the planning process. [20:15] - How Michael gauges the effectiveness of his business. [22:29] - Michael's approach to working with high-net-worth clients. [25:08] - One of Michael's favorite things about RIA. [26:35] - What motivates Michael to keep doing what he does.   Quotes [12:42] - "The portfolio drives the investing. It's the whole core. But it's all about planning around people, their families, their relationships and values, and what's important to them." ~ Michael Mahoney [13:25] - "The world's catching up even on the brokerage side. Brokers are seeing the light and understanding that there's a better way to invest than just being transactional and selling products. It's all about the plan." ~ Michael Mahoney [16:58] - "People don't want to talk about money a lot, and it's sad. You've got two choices. You cannot talk about it, keep it a secret, wait until you die, and let your will do all the talking. Or you can have the conversation, get feedback, and pass your values on and what's important to you." ~ Michael Mahoney   Links  Michael Mahoney on LinkedIn Cypress Asset Management Dimensional Fund Advisors Merrill Lynch John Bowen Creating Equity Vanguard   Connect with our hosts Steve on LinkedIn Buckingham Strategic Partners   Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Steve on LinkedIn Follow Buckingham Strategic Partners on Twitter   Disclosure For informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as specific investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Certain information is based upon third party data which may become outdated or otherwise superseded without notice. Third party information is deemed to be reliable, but its accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. Some analysis presented is based off current economic information and may become outdated or irrelevant without notice. Individuals should speak with their qualified financial professional based on his or her unique circumstances. Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) nor any other federal or state agency have approved, determined the accuracy, or confirmed the adequacy of this podcast. © 2022 Buckingham Wealth Partners, LLC. Buckingham Strategic Wealth, LLC and Buckingham Strategic Partners, LLC (collectively, Buckingham Wealth Partners)

As a new breed of investors emerges, they bring with them unique perspectives, aspirations, and ambitions. This tech-savvy and forward-thinking generation demands a level of engagement and planning that is far more in-depth and tailored to their specific circumstances and goals.  In this episode, Steve talks with Andy Krafft, Financial Planner at Luminary Wealth. Andy is a nextgen advisor who joined his father's firm over five years ago after a successful career at Ernst & Young. Andy serves late millennials and early Gen Xers. With a burning desire to work directly with clients, Andy talks about his thought process of serving next-generation clients, the three Ts of client experience, and how he uses LinkedIn to find new clients and referrals.   Key Takeaways [02:25] - How Andy became a member of Luminary Wealth. [04:19] - Andy's professional background before joining Luminary Wealth. [06:19] - The reality of working directly with clients. [08:46] - Challenges and benefits of working remotely. [10:56] - Andy's thought process as a next-generation advisor. [20:12] - The three Ts of client experience. [22:27] - How Andy uses LinkedIn to find new clients and referrals. [28:46] - How Andy educates his clients about various financial services.  [33:10] - The role of AI in financial advisory services. [35:21] - Andy's favorite thing about his work.   Quotes [12:34] - "Next-gen clients have different needs and wants. They want more of a partner than an advisor who is just there to tell them what to do. They want somebody who can help guide them and help them think through big life decisions." ~ Andy Krafft [20:56] - "Clients are hiring us because they want a detailed answer. They don't want something that they could get on Google." ~ Andy Krafft  [33:10] - "AI will roll out new tools that allow us to offload some of the work we don't want to do. But it will never replace that human aspect of it. As long as we're working with humans, there will always be a human element that can't be replaced." ~ Andy Krafft   Links  Andy Krafft on LinkedIn Andy Krafft on Twitter Luminary Wealth Scott Krafft Robert Rachlow EY MoneyGuidePro eMoney Advisor   Connect with our hosts Steve on LinkedIn Buckingham Strategic Partners   Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Steve on LinkedIn Follow Buckingham Strategic Partners on Twitter   Disclosure For informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as specific investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Certain information is based upon third party data which may become outdated or otherwise superseded without notice. Third party information is deemed to be reliable, but its accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. Some analysis presented is based off current economic information and may become outdated or irrelevant without notice. Individuals should speak with their qualified financial professional based on his or her unique circumstances. Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) nor any other federal or state agency have approved, determined the accuracy, or confirmed the adequacy of this podcast. © 2022 Buckingham Wealth Partners, LLC. Buckingham Strategic Wealth, LLC and Buckingham Strategic Partners, LLC (collectively, Buckingham Wealth Partners)

Trusts have long been essential for wealth management and estate planning, enabling individuals to protect and distribute their assets according to their wishes. However, navigating the trustee industry can sometimes feel like stepping into a maze of legal jargon, complicated procedures, and an array of options that can overwhelm even the most experienced advisors. In this episode, Steve talks with Christopher Holtby, Co-Founder of Wealth Advisors Trust Company. At Wealth Advisors Trust Company, Christopher applies his business building, love of learning, and operational and wealth management expertise gained at Ernst & Young. His role includes learning and facilitating knowledge around the trustee industry to assist in choosing a trust company. Christopher has co-authored two white papers, “Directed Trusts Made Simple” and the “Trusteed IRA”, and authored one published peer-reviewed paper, “An Advisors Roadmap to the Trustee Industry.” Committed to educating and empowering advisors to help clients understand their options regarding trust services, Christopher demystifies the corporate trustee concerns advisors may have. He talks about how advisors can avoid being flanked by attorneys during trust discussions and why having a generational wealth transfer conversation with a client is important.   Key Takeaways [02:47] - Why Christopher founded Wealth Advisors Trust Company. [05:42] - What makes Wealth Advisors Trust Company an advisor-friendly company? [12:00] - How advisors can avoid being flanked by attorneys during trust discussions. [16:20] - The importance of having generational wealth transfer conversations. [18:56] - The difference between family trustees and corporate trustees. [20:30] - What makes a great family trustee? [23:35] - How independent advisors can compete successfully against big firms. [31:30] - Christopher's greatest source of fulfillment and enjoyment.   Quotes [13:10] - "Advisors should have a conversation about generational planning with clients. Who gets the money, when, why, and how is a normal language that an advisor and a client can have." ~ Christopher Holtby [20:45] - "The best skill for a family trustee is the comfort of saying, "I don't know, I'm gonna go ask." That raw ability to say, "I'm not quite sure. I will double-check that" with impartiality and humility, makes a great family trustee." ~ Christopher Holtby [25:05] - "Advisors are true craftsmen. The value-add they bring is having the time and attention to detail, being impartial, and being independent thinkers. That's a real value-add." ~ Christopher Holtby   Links  Christopher Holtby on LinkedIn Wealth Advisors Trust Company Ernst & Young Family Office Northern Trust Fidelity Investments Charles Schwab Pershing J.P. Morgan Wells Fargo Truist   Connect with our hosts Steve on LinkedIn Buckingham Strategic Partners   Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Steve on LinkedIn Follow Buckingham Strategic Partners on Twitter   Disclosure For informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as specific investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Certain information is based upon third party data which may become outdated or otherwise superseded without notice. Third party information is deemed to be reliable, but its accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. Some analysis presented is based off current economic information and may become outdated or irrelevant without notice. Individuals should speak with their qualified financial professional based on his or her unique circumstances. Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) nor any other federal or state agency have approved, determined the accuracy, or confirmed the adequacy of this podcast. © 2022 Buckingham Wealth Partners, LLC. Buckingham Strategic Wealth, LLC and Buckingham Strategic Partners, LLC (collectively, Buckingham Wealth Partners)

The quest for effective growth strategies in business is a constant endeavor. Entrepreneurs and business owners tirelessly explore various avenues to fuel their enterprises, seeking the holy grail of sustainable growth. While modern marketing channels have expanded exponentially with the rise of social media, search engines, and digital advertising, referrals remain a timeless tool that cuts through the noise and establishes genuine connections. They embody the age-old wisdom that "people trust people." In this episode, Steve talks with Randy Hardy, President of Clune & Associates. Randy holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation and has been actively engaged in the investment management and financial planning industry since 1999. Before joining Clune & Associates in 2009, Randy spent 10 years handling business development for Loring Ward.  Randy talks with Steve about how Clune & Associates has doubled its client base and how its assets under management have increased more than fivefold. He also speaks about the secret to his business growth and shares a handful of models and concepts he uses to keep our minds focused on what matters.   Key Takeaways [01:59] - An overview of Randy's career and motivation for establishing his firm. [05:14] - How Randy transitioned from product to consulting in investment management. [09:32] - How Clune & Associates has evolved over the years. [13:00] - The role referrals play in Randy's business growth. [14:24] - How Randy gets referrals for his services. [15:18] - Randy's strategy for managing his business. [19:57] - What Randy's discovery process looks like. [26:27] - How Randy handles referrals that aren't right for him. [31:12] - What Randy looks for in a team member. [33:33] - How Randy maintains work-life harmony. [38:09] - What brings Randy joy and excitement at work.   Quotes [11:03] - "When you're buying a business, it's a marriage. And like any marriage, there are ups and downs. The relationship needs to be built on commitment, trust, and respect." ~ Randy Hardy [14:43] - "I have never asked for a referral. I don't feel comfortable doing it. But I've always made myself available to help centers of influence who reach out to me or an accountant to bounce an idea off me. That comes back to me in spades." ~ Randy Hardy [16:41] - "If I am referred to a potential client, but they aren't a fit, I still invest my time in them. That doesn't lead directly to a client today, but it might at some point in the future." ~ Randy Hardy   Links  Randy Hardy on LinkedIn Clune & Associates Eileen Clune John Burns   Connect with our hosts Steve on LinkedIn Buckingham Strategic Partners   Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Steve on LinkedIn Follow Buckingham Strategic Partners on Twitter   Disclosure For informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as specific investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Certain information is based upon third party data which may become outdated or otherwise superseded without notice. Third party information is deemed to be reliable, but its accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. Some analysis presented is based off current economic information and may become outdated or irrelevant without notice. Individuals should speak with their qualified financial professional based on his or her unique circumstances. Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) nor any other federal or state agency have approved, determined the accuracy, or confirmed the adequacy of this podcast. © 2022 Buckingham Wealth Partners, LLC. Buckingham Strategic Wealth, LLC and Buckingham Strategic Partners, LLC (collectively, Buckingham Wealth Partners)

Faith-based and family-centric advisory services offer a refreshing alternative in a world that often compartmentalizes faith and business. This concept goes beyond conventional financial consulting. It delves into the intersection of faith, family, and finance, recognizing that one's religious beliefs play a crucial role in shaping their perspectives, decisions, and aspirations.  In this episode, Steve talks with Candido Palomarez. Candido is a husband, father, coach, and Family CFO at Candido, Inc. He has been an advisor for 16 years and has helped families protect their nest eggs. Candido currently serves around 50 clients, focusing on serving families with strong family and faith-based values. A product of Catholic education, Candido talks about his unique approach to client relationships and how he provides financial advice from a faith-based and family-centric perspective. He also shares his discovery process for knowing the families he serves and the valuable insights he has learned from his faith-based peer group.   Key Takeaways [02:13] - Candido's role in the advisory industry. [04:35] - How Candido manages his advisory firm without a staff. [05:39] - What inspired Candido to come up with the name “Family CFO”. [08:11] - Candido's strategy for growing his business. [11:28] - How Candido provides financial advice from a family-centric perspective. [13:24] - Candido's thought process in meeting with clients. [17:48] - How Candido helps clients to get more clarity about their financial goals. [19:49] - How Candido generates profit from his business. [22:23] - What Candido does to help clients navigate turbulent markets. [25:37] - The frequency with which Candido talks to his clients. [27:55] - Candido's advice for advisors with hundreds of clients. [30:29] - How Candido handles disagreements with clients. [33:09] - How Candido spends his weekend. [35:17] - Candido's secret for getting the most enjoyment and happiness from his work.   Quotes [11:49] - "I want to be the one person people can call, who will always take the call and will always be honest with them even if they don't want to hear it, whose judgment they trust, and who's not their spouse or brother or someone inside the family." ~ Candido Palomarez [14:50] - "There aren't too many people who are willing to hold themselves out as faith-based advisors and courageous enough to ask about religion in business settings." ~ Candido Palomarez [35:37] - "As a Christian, I believe in my heart that we are called to love and to serve, whatever that means to each individual. But for me, to be able to do well for my family means doing well for other families." ~ Candido Palomarez   Links  Candido Palomarez on LinkedIn Woodbury Financial Services Candido, Inc. CMBC John Bowen Brené Brown Peter Montoya Nick Murray   Connect with our hosts Steve on LinkedIn Buckingham Strategic Partners   Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Steve on LinkedIn Follow Buckingham Strategic Partners on Twitter   Disclosure For informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as specific investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Certain information is based upon third party data which may become outdated or otherwise superseded without notice. Third party information is deemed to be reliable, but its accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. Some analysis presented is based off current economic information and may become outdated or irrelevant without notice. Individuals should speak with their qualified financial professional based on his or her unique circumstances. Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) nor any other federal or state agency have approved, determined the accuracy, or confirmed the adequacy of this podcast. © 2022 Buckingham Wealth Partners, LLC. Buckingham Strategic Wealth, LLC and Buckingham Strategic Partners, LLC (collectively, Buckingham Wealth Partners)

Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) have long been recognized for their meticulous number-crunching abilities. However, beyond the spreadsheets and balance sheets, the essence of CPA work lies in fostering relationships, providing sound advice, and guiding clients toward financial prosperity. For some, this realization becomes the catalyst for embarking on a new journey — building a wealth management firm that focuses on fostering a collaborative environment where every member strives for collective growth. In this episode, Steve talks with Brent Gunderson, Owner of Connected Wealth Solutions. In 2015, Brent co-founded the company alongside Michael Poe, to further support and educate their clients. Brent's experience in financial planning, investing, taxes, and estate planning enables him to provide comprehensive financial guidance. A practicing CPA and a business owner, Brent talks about building a firm in a small rural community like La Grande, Oregon. He also shares the importance of everyone on the team doing the little things and getting above doing anything to run the business, the challenges and successes of building a wealth management company, and the values he and his team uphold.   Key Takeaways [02:29] - What motivated Brent to create Connected Wealth Solutions? [05:32] - Brent's journey to building an RIA firm. [08:26] - How Connected Wealth Solutions is doing at the moment. [10:39] - How Connected Wealth Solutions qualifies prospective clients. [16:14] - The values Brent and his team uphold. [17:30] - Brent's approach to finding the right person for his team. [22:34] - The importance of having a financial conversation between spouses. [28:35] - The challenges Brent faces when running the financial firm. [32:11] - How Brent and his team created a collaborative workplace culture. [35:24] - Brent's favorite part of his wealth management career.   Quotes [25:03] - "When we transitioned into wealth management, and based on some really good coaching from Buckingham, it was a requirement that when we do a financial plan and have these deeper dive meetings, it's both spouses in the room." ~ Brent Gunderson [32:39] - "CPAs are notorious for having crazy partner compensation models of slicing the pie. But in our firm, we always had a share-like process. If we make decisions with the good of the client and the firm in mind, we will all do well individually." ~ Brent Gunderson [36:11] - "What I love about being a CPA is not the number crunching. It is relationship building and advising. And starting a wealth management company is a natural extension of what I love on the CPA side." ~ Brent Gunderson   Links  Brent Gunderson on LinkedIn Brent Gunderson on Twitter Connected Wealth Solutions   Connect with our hosts Steve on LinkedIn Buckingham Strategic Partners   Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Steve on LinkedIn Follow Buckingham Strategic Partners on Twitter   Disclosure For informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as specific investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Certain information is based upon third party data which may become outdated or otherwise superseded without notice. Third party information is deemed to be reliable, but its accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. Some analysis presented is based off current economic information and may become outdated or irrelevant without notice. Individuals should speak with their qualified financial professional based on his or her unique circumstances. Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) nor any other federal or state agency have approved, determined the accuracy, or confirmed the adequacy of this podcast. © 2022 Buckingham Wealth Partners, LLC. Buckingham Strategic Wealth, LLC and Buckingham Strategic Partners, LLC (collectively, Buckingham Wealth Partners)

Traditionally, younger individuals seeking financial advice find themselves entangled in a broken system. They are often required to purchase financial products or services to access professional advice. Unfortunately, this model is inherently flawed, as the advice they receive tends to be biased and skewed toward the products or services offered. To empower young investors, they need to break free from the system and learn the cornerstones of successful investing. In this episode, Steve talks with Dan Reese, Founder and President of Avery Wealth. Dan began his career in 1994 working with State Farm Insurance. In 2000, Dan opened his own agency. And in 2003, he established his current independent financial planning firm. Dan has been working with families since 2001 developing prudent strategies to achieve long-term financial success. Taking a comprehensive approach, Dan focuses on each area of personal finance, including savings plans, investments, cash flow, retirement income planning, taxes, and risk management.  Dedicated to educating the younger generation about their finances, Dan talks about why education is one of Avery Wealth's core values, how he serves the younger generation of investors, and what his service model looks like.   Key Takeaways [02:13] - What Avery Wealth is all about. [03:16] - How Dan got to serve the second generation of investors. [05:09] - Dan's journey to establishing his financial planning business.  [07:15] - How Dan uses segmentation in his service offering. [08:28] - Dan's approach to meeting clients across the four segments. [10:19] - Why education is one of Avery Wealth's core values. [13:52] - How Dan attracts the younger generation of investors. [17:29] - What Dan's service model looks like. [23:22] - The pros and cons of building a subscription-based coaching service. [28:57] - How Dan finds the balance between educating people and managing wealth. [32:18] - Dan's favorite thing about his job.   Quotes [10:46] - "My passion is education. Allowing people to learn and not just dictating things to them creates better relationships because they know you care. They know you want them to understand what you're doing, so they have confidence." ~ Dan Reese [14:14] - "For younger people to get advice, they generally have to buy something to get advice from a professional. That's broken because they generally will not get true unbiased advice. It's going to be tilted toward whatever that person sells." ~ Dan Reese [31:31] - "A lot of these younger people feel empowered. They just don't know what to do. But once you help them understand what to do, they're off to the races." ~ Dan Reese   Links  Dan Reese on LinkedIn Dan Reese on Twitter Avery Wealth Salesforce Brent Oliver Pulse360 Fidelity Investments Carl Richards   Connect with our hosts Steve on LinkedIn Buckingham Strategic Partners   Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Steve on LinkedIn Follow Buckingham Strategic Partners on Twitter   Disclosure For informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as specific investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Certain information is based upon third party data which may become outdated or otherwise superseded without notice. Third party information is deemed to be reliable, but its accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. Some analysis presented is based off current economic information and may become outdated or irrelevant without notice. Individuals should speak with their qualified financial professional based on his or her unique circumstances. Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) nor any other federal or state agency have approved, determined the accuracy, or confirmed the adequacy of this podcast. © 2022 Buckingham Wealth Partners, LLC. Buckingham Strategic Wealth, LLC and Buckingham Strategic Partners, LLC (collectively, Buckingham Wealth Partners)