Tag: Financial Planning

The WealthStack Podcast: The TAMP Evolution: Tech Driving Wealth Management Forward with Kyle Wiggs

The WealthStack Podcast: The TAMP Evolution: Tech Driving Wealth Management Forward with Kyle Wiggs

TAMPs have evolved significantly since their inception in the 1980s, becoming essential tools for advisors seeking to enhance operational efficiency and client service. Initially, TAMPs were designed to simplify portfolio management by providing access to pre-selected investment models and third-party asset managers, allowing advisors to outsource the heavy lifting of investment management. Over time, as technology has advanced and client expectations have shifted, TAMPs have evolved to offer a wider array of services, including advanced portfolio customization, automated trading, and integrated compliance tools. The modern TAMPs now combine cutting-edge wealthtech solutions with multi-custodial capabilities, allowing advisors to serve a broader range of clients more effectively while keeping their focus on client engagement and growth.

In this episode, WealthStack Podcast host Shannon Rosic chats with Kyle Wiggs, CEO of UX Wealth Partners, about the evolving role of TAMPs in wealth management.

Shannon and Kyle also discuss:

  • The evolution of TAMPs and the technology advancements driving growth
  • How advisors can leverage TAMPs to manage regulatory, operational, and investment challenges more effectively
  • The role of AI in enhancing decision-making and portfolio management
  • How technology is redefining the client experience and helping advisors maintain control while outsourcing key functions

Connect with Shannon Rosic:

Connect with Kyle Wiggs:

About Our Guest:

As President & CEO, Kyle is responsible for leading UX Wealth Partners’ team of dedicated industry experts. He focuses primarily on business strategy, organizational management, platform & product development, and distribution strategy. With nearly two decades of industry experience, Kyle has an intimate understanding of today’s advisors, the technologies needed to modernize their businesses, and the transformative investment tools that power the UX Wealth Partners platform.

Harnessing the Power of Testimonials for Business Growth with Andrew Johnson of Testimonial IQ

Harnessing the Power of Testimonials for Business Growth with Andrew Johnson of Testimonial IQ

The use of testimonials creates a powerful opportunity to amplify the potential reach of positive experiences through word-of-mouth sharing to new audiences. For financial advisors, online reputation is becoming increasingly important as clients turn to digital channels for information. Understanding how to leverage testimonials effectively can be a game-changer for business growth.

In this episode of WealthStack, Shannon Rosic, Director of WealthStack Content & Solutions, chats with Andrew Johnson, CEO, and Co-founder of Testimonial IQ, about why financial advisors should care about Google reviews, the role of compliance in managing testimonials, and how to align online presence with real-world client relationships.

Shannon and Andrew discuss:

  • Understanding testimonials vs. endorsements
  • Overcoming the fear of feedback
  • What advisors need to know about SEO
  • Future trends in online reputation management and the role of AI in compliance

Connect with Shannon Rosic:

Connect with Andrew Johnson:

About Our Guest:

An experienced FinTech entrepreneur, Andrew previously co-founded Datalign Advisory, an RIA referral platform where he serves as a board advisor. Before Datalign, he worked in management consulting with a focus on B2C marketing and in product/operations strategy with Meta (Facebook). Andrew served for five years in the Navy as a Surface Warfare Officer, including two deployments on the world’s finest Destroyer, USS O’Kane. Andrew earned his MBA from the University of Virginia and his BS from Davidson College. He resides with his family in Denver, CO.

Why Business Owners Deserve Better from Their Advisory Partners with Trevor Greenway

Why Business Owners Deserve Better from Their Advisory Partners with Trevor Greenway

Small to medium-sized businesses make up 99% of all U.S. businesses, and most of these business owners are unaware of their enterprise value. The episode dives into how Interval provides critical insights for business owners by automating business health analytics and delivering ongoing value monitoring, ultimately helping advisors provide better guidance by integrating business health data into their planning process.

Join Shannon Rosic, director of WealthStack content and solutions, as she speaks with Trevor Greenway, Co-Founder & CEO at interVal, on how interVal is empowering financial advisors to attract, retain, and better serve high-value business owner clients through the innovative use of technology.

Shannon and Trevor discuss:

  • What data is most important in business valuations
  • How InterVal fits into an advisors overall tech stack
  • How wealth managers can act as the “quarterback” for business owners
  • The importance of having clear business goals when implementing AI

Connect with Shannon Rosic:

Connect with Trevor Greenway:

 

About Our Guest:

Trevor Greenway is an exceptionally passionate leader who believes that when data is harnessed for good, everyone in the ecosystem benefits. He understands that business owners and their advisors can operate more efficiently when financial data is sorted and contextualized in meaningful ways. Believing that everyone succeeds with access to comprehensive information, Trevor led the development of a software platform that provides this data in real time.

The WealthStack Podcast: Unpacking The State of CRM with Doug Fritz

The WealthStack Podcast: Unpacking The State of CRM with Doug Fritz

Proactive client engagement through technology has become paramount, which means the role of the CRM has evolved. In an increasingly uncertain economic environment, advisors must future-proof their business models to scale operations and expand their reach. A key area to revisit is their CRM system, which has become crucial for delivering personalized services and enhancing client engagement. 

In this episode, Shannon Rosic, Director of WealthStack Content and Solutions, speaks with  Doug Fritz, CEO and founder of F2 Strategy, about the current state and future of CRM systems in the wealth management industry. 

Shannon and Doug discuss:

  • The shift from traditional CRM systems to more integrated, automated solutions
  • Key frustrations and wish list items for wealth management firms using CRM systems
  • Differences in how firms view CRMs as either operational tools or client engagement tools
  • The role of CRM maturity and workflow customization in increasing satisfaction

Connect with Shannon Rosic:

Connect with Doug Fritz:

About Our Guest:

Doug Fritz is the co-founder and CEO of F2 Strategy. Doug, a veteran CTO and sought-after WealthTech consultant leads an all-star team of executives in technology-driven operations, digital client engagement, performance, and implementation, among many other areas for clients. Through F2’s Outsourced CTO (OCTO) model and strategy consulting services, Doug is passionate about helping firms of all sizes deliver exceptional client and advisor experiences.

The WealthStack Podcast: The Post-Merger Playbook

The WealthStack Podcast: The Post-Merger Playbook

Mergers and acquisitions often mark the beginning of a transformative journey, filled with both incredible opportunities and challenging headaches. Few industries offer more enticing M&A potential than wealth management, a fragmented sector where performance, processes, and personnel must consistently operate at peak efficiency. For financial advisory firms, regardless of size or type, preparing for acquisition is vital, which is why thorough planning and having a well-defined project plan are crucial for a successful merger.

In this episode, Shannon Rosic, director of WealthStack Content and Solutions, speaks with Verity Larsen, Founder and CEO of Versoft Consulting, about the importance of a comprehensive post-deal integration strategy.

Shannon and Verity also discuss:

  • Why working with reliable vendors and partners can significantly streamline the merger process
  • The role of data accuracy
  • Why assessing cultural and operational compatibility between merging firms is essential for smooth integration
  • How to ensure user adoption of new systems 

Connect with Shannon Rosic:

Connect with Verity Larsen:

About Our Guest:

Verity is Versoft’s heart and soul. She co-founded the company in 2015 after spending 7.5 years as Team Lead and Senior Consultant at SS&C Advent. Prior to entering the consulting field, she worked as Assistant Director of Information Systems at a Portland-based asset management firm and has been in the investment management industry since 2000.

Verity graduated with an A.A.S. in Computer Information Systems from Portland Community College. She also spent 3 years on the Board of Directors for The Exchange Network (formerly Advent Users Group) serving as VP and President in her 2nd and 3rd years.

She’s committed to providing an exceptional consultative approach to every client and ensuring the work performed by the Versoft Team results in the highest level of customer satisfaction. Verity works to continue training and education throughout the Versoft team, passing on the knowledge she has gained being in this industry for so many years.  She also spends time building and maintaining relationships with vendors so the Versoft team can remain knowledgeable on technology platforms and tools, IT hosting, and data and outsourced service providers.

When she’s not doing CEO/Principal Consultant/Co-Founder things, Verity likes to spend time with family, including seven nieces and nephews and two great-nephews, in multiple states around the U.S. On rare occasions, she’ll hike around the Oregon Coast, Central Oregon, and other places throughout the Pacific Northwest.

The WealthStack Podcast: How RIAs Can Prepare for The Latest SEC Cybersecurity Rules

The WealthStack Podcast: How RIAs Can Prepare for The Latest SEC Cybersecurity Rules

SEC compliance is top of mind for RIAs across the country, and their cybersecurity needs are specific. RIAs have a fiduciary responsibility to protect their clients’ data and assets, which can be vulnerable to cyber-attacks. A data breach could result in fines, penalties, and reputational damage. With the SEC proposing new rules to address cybersecurity risks, RIAs need to be prepared to future-proof their practice.

In this episode, Shannon Rosic, director of WealthStack Content and Solutions, speaks with Michael Cocanower, Founder and CEO of Advisercyber, about what pending regulations mean for RIAs.

Shannon and Michael also discuss:

  • What role the advisor plays when mitigating risks
  • Why the SEC believes firms are underinvesting in cyber solutions
  • What the AI arms races means in the context of regulation
  • How RIAs can effectively respond to and recover from a cybersecurity incident

Connect with Shannon Rosic:

Connect with Michael Cocanower:

About Our Guest:

Michael Cocanower is the founder and CEO of AdviserCyber. He has over 25 years of experience in the IT field, and specifically designed AdviserCyber to assist Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs) in complying with the most sweeping SEC cybersecurity requirements in history. Michael has led IT consulting organizations empowering small and mid-market businesses with strategic guidance. Michael is recognized as an Investment Adviser Certified Compliance Professional (IACCP ®), as well as a Certified Ethical Hacker.

Born and raised in Phoenix, Michael earned Bachelor of Science degrees in both finance and computer information systems from Arizona State University. He went on to serve in technology consulting positions for various Arizona-based companies, as well for industry giants such as Microsoft and Cisco. Michael served on the Board of Directors of the International Association of Microsoft® Certified Partners for many years and is also a past president of the Arizona Chapter of Entrepreneurs Organization. Michael is a black belt in the Kang-Sul division of Hwa Rang Do, a trained sniper, and runs in excess of 50 miles per week. In his spare time he is up for just about any type of life adventure offers to him.

The WealthStack Podcast: The Importance of a Growth Partner with Andree Mohr

The WealthStack Podcast: The Importance of a Growth Partner with Andree Mohr

For financial advisors, having a growth partner is essential for achieving sustainable success and scaling their business. The right partner can provide strategic insights, and enhance an advisor’s operational efficiencies and client service capabilities. Through strategic partnerships, advisors can access new markets and opportunities more effectively, manage risks better, and stay ahead of industry trends, ultimately leading to increased client satisfaction and higher growth rates. 

 In this episode, Shannon Rosic, director of WealthStack content and solutions, speaks with Andree Mohr, President of Integrated Partners, about the importance of a growth partner.

Shannon and Andree also discuss:

  • Why Integrated’s CPA Alliance is a game changer 
  • Successful transition stories, including an advisor who saw 96% organic growth
  • How the role of technology impacted Integrated’s strategy for onboarding, training, and supporting advisors
  • Tech that’s standing out in a crowded marketplace 

Resource:

Connect with Shannon Rosic:

Connect with Andree Mohr:

About Our Guest:

Andree supports growth on many levels as the President of Integrated. In this role, She oversees the day-to-day operations, manages budgets, and drives the firm’s key objectives to ensure the consistent and healthy growth of the organization. A particular passion of hers is helping entrepreneurial-minded financial advisors implement strategic operations that enhance efficiencies, foster practice growth, and bring their business visions to fruition. Through Integrated’s CPA Alliance program, she assists CPA partners in monetizing their most trusted advisor status while simultaneously aiding clients in their financial planning and tax needs.

She is also the co-author of “Center Stage: How to Become the Star of Your Practice” along with Matt Ackermann. The book focuses on operational, team building, and business processing efficiencies to help empower advisors to streamline their practices. The end result: advisors will have a roadmap to grow their business, leave a lasting legacy, and ultimately provide a boutique, concierge, memorable experience for their clients.

Her professional background includes graduating from Northeastern University, with an emphasis on experiential learning. She has been supporting advisors in various capacities for the last 13 years and truly enjoys helping them with their growth endeavors, facilitating business optimization, and ultimately watching them realize their goals.

Rounding out her life involves spending time with her husband and twin daughters, passionately cheering on the New England Patriots, traveling, and supporting charitable causes that are important to her.

The WealthStack Podcast: How LPL Approaches Digital Transformation with Greg Gates

The WealthStack Podcast: How LPL Approaches Digital Transformation with Greg Gates

LPL Financial has been a leader in the independent broker/dealer space for years, serving nearly 22,000 financial advisors representing over $1 trillion of brokerage and advisory assets. This means the business needs its infrastructure to be fast, reliable and secure. Everything LPL does is positioned around helping advisors take care of their clients, with technology being a driving force. 

In this episode, Shannon Rosic, director of WealthStack content and solutions, speaks with Greg Gates, CTO of LPL, about how technological advancements are driving the firm’s digital transformation.

Shannon and Greg also discuss:

  • 2024 plans around tech spend 
  • LPL’s stance on artificial intelligence
  • How the firm prioritizes tech initiatives for advisors 
  • Striking the right balance when it comes to scaling the business 

Connect with Shannon Rosic:

Connect with Greg Gates:

About Our Guest:

Greg Gates is managing director and Chief Technology & Information Officer for LPL Financial. In this role, Mr. Gates is responsible for managing all aspects of the firm’s technology and systems applications. He leads a high-performing information technology organization responsible for delivering technology solutions and market-leading platforms that enable positive, compelling experiences for LPL advisors and employees.

Mr. Gates joined LPL in 2018 with nearly two decades of senior-level management experience focused on the application of technology to solve business challenges on a global scale. Before joining LPL, Mr. Gates led Product Management and Engineering teams at PayPal from 2011 to 2018, focusing on internal technology platforms, merchant and consumer experiences, risk and security, and global operations. Prior to that, at Bank of America, he led a number of technology organizations, culminating in leadership of Bank of America’s Contact Center Technology from 2002 to 2011.

Mr. Gates earned his bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering from Vanderbilt University in 1999, and successfully completed multiple leadership, continuing education, and certification programs from several organizations. He recently served on the Pega Platform Customer Advisory Board at Pegasystems, and previously served on Avaya’s customer advisory board. He is currently on Box, Inc.’s CIO Advisory Board.

The WealthStack Podcast: Why Estate Planning is The Next Frontier of Wealth Management with Gene Farrell

The WealthStack Podcast: Why Estate Planning is The Next Frontier of Wealth Management with Gene Farrell

Is estate planning the next frontier of wealth management? Estate planning solutions are becoming steadily more popular with advisors, especially those seeking to differentiate their services. As clients become increasingly aware of the complexities of wealth transfer, asset protection, and legacy planning, they expect comprehensive guidance from their advisors. By using estate planning tools, advisors can offer a holistic approach to wealth management, addressing not only investment strategies but also the essential aspects of estate distribution and tax implications. 

In this episode, Shannon Rosic, director of WealthStack content and solutions, speaks with Gene Farrell, CEO of Vanilla, about the emerging trends in estate planning and why it’s becoming a critical part of wealth management.

Shannon and Gene also discuss:

  • Why estate planning is becoming a differentiator for financial advisors 
  • The biggest misconceptions around estate planning
  • Why the great wealth transfer is driving technological changes
  • The impact AI is having on estate planning software

Connect with Shannon Rosic:

Connect with Gene Farrell:

About Our Guest:

With over 25 years of executive leadership experience driving transformation and growth across the consumer and technology industries, Gene is a recognized thought leader and innovator known for building disruptive new businesses for global brands. He was named a 2019 Innovator of the Year by the Puget Sound Business Journal. 

Prior to Vanilla, Gene spent 4 1/2 years at Smartsheet where he helped take the company public and scale the business from $100M to over $500M in revenue. As Smartsheet’s Chief Strategy and Product Officer Gene was responsible for leading company strategy, corporate development, product management, product marketing, experience design, and strategic alliances. Gene joined Smartsheet from Amazon Web Services where he spent five years as a vice president responsible for enterprise computing. In this role, Gene pioneered new cloud businesses including Amazon WorkSpaces and Amazon Chime. Before Amazon, Gene was a vice president at the Coca-Cola Company, where he founded and led the creation of the Coca-Cola Freestyle beverage platform. His groundbreaking work on Coca-Cola Freestyle was recognized by Forbes as one of the best new products of the decade and received the Edison Gold Innovation and Catalyst Design awards.



The WealthStack Podcast: Keeping Tech Simple as a Virtual Advisor with Derek Notman

The WealthStack Podcast: Keeping Tech Simple as a Virtual Advisor with Derek Notman

After spending years in a suit and tie and feeling held back by technology within the broker-world, Derek Notman, CFP®, made the decision to take his practice completely virtual. While that was back in 2013, he has since designed a tech stack that satisfies the needs not only for his business, but one that his clients enjoy using as well.

In this episode, Shannon Rosic, Director of WealthStack Content and Solutions, speaks with Derek, who is also the founder of Couplr, Conneqtor, and host of Rethink – The Financial Advisor Podcast, on his future wealthtech outlook.

Shannon and Derek discuss: 

  • How he approached building his own tech stack 
  • Why he is on a mission to fix money
  • What to future holds for Couplr and Conneqtor (and where AI fits in)
  • Why the power of personal branding is critical for growth

Connect with Shannon Rosic:

Connect with Guest:

About Our Guest:

Derek entered the financial services industry in 2006 and experienced a high level of success early on which he attributed to the philosophy of “do what is right for my clients and eventually I will get paid.” After 3 years, he started his own firm.

In 2013, he made the decision to transition his practice to a Virtual model. Derek did this to best serve his unique clientele while also ensuring a great life-work balance for him to spend more time pursuing his passions and enjoying more of life’s moments with his wife and son. He is no longer taking on new clients other than direct referral for his RIA.

Knowing the financial industry & profession as both an advisor & fintech founder has given him a unique perspective on how to address and tackle some large problems which he is laser focused on via his four dimensions with:

  • Couplr
  • Conneqtor
  • Rethink FA Podcast
  • Intrepid Wealth Partners