NAPFA Nation Podcast

In Episode #24 of NAPFA Nation, host Marie Swift speaks with Bridget Venus Grimes, CFP®, President of WealthChoice and Co-Founder of Equita Financial Network. The conversation focuses on Grimes’s expertise and passion for empowering women through financial education. Grimes shares the story and motivation behind launching her RIA firm, WealthChoice, as well as Equita Financial Network, a network and platform built for women-led and independently owned fee-only firms, discussing how she manages the capacity and growth of those companies. She emphasizes the value of a good community for success and discusses her experience as a CFP board ambassador and NAPFA member. Learn why Grimes strongly believes in upholding the fiduciary standard and many more valuable insights in this episode. In a nutshell: Financial planning for women The benefits of industry organizations Growth and capacity management Community and volunteer activities Succession planning NAPFA and the fiduciary standard Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #23 of NAPFA Nation, host Marie Swift speaks with Jennifer Dazols, CFP®, Founder and Lead Financial Planner, and Lisa Dazols, Head of Operations at Modern Family Finance. The conversation focuses on the Dazols' journey and motivation for creating Modern Family Finance. Their fee-only financial planning company focuses on typically underserved and underrepresented communities: women and LGBTQ+ individuals. Learn about their passion project, the documentary Out and Around, which showcases inspiring “Supergays” making impactful contributions across the globe, and their educational guides made in partnership with the It Gets Better Project. The Dazols also share their experience being members of NAPFA and Equita Financial Network. The discussion outlines the distinction between financial advisors who adhere to the fiduciary standard and why trust and transparency are central to Modern Family Finance. In a nutshell: Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #22 of NAPFA Nation, host Marie Swift speaks with Luis Rosa, CFP®, EA, founder of Build a Better Financial Future. The discussion revolves around empowering first-generation wealth creators, particularly immigrants or children of immigrants, who often face challenges related to financial literacy and family obligations. Rosa highlights the significance of understanding client struggles such as “success guilt” and “lifestyle creep,” advocating for a hands-on, holistic financial planning approach that prioritizes clarity and simplicity. He outlines essential milestones in financial management, such as home purchasing and debt repayment, while emphasizing the benefits of a fee-only fiduciary service to eliminate conflicts of interest. The conversation also touches on the BLX internship program – a vital initiative he co-founded to enhance diversity within the financial planning field – and encourages advisors to actively engage in professional communities like NAPFA, XYPN, and FPA to foster growth and support. In a nutshell: Learn more about Rosa and his company at www.BuildaBetterFinancialFuture.com. Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #21 of NAPFA Nation, host Marie Swift interviews Britta Koepf, CFP®, ChSNC®, founder of Tranquil Path Financial Planning. The discussion begins with Koepf’s background and motivations for establishing her financial advisory practice, focusing on the unique challenges faced by families planning for the financial futures of both aging parents and their differently-abled children. Key topics include the importance of legacy planning, the use of special needs trusts and ABLE accounts, and the financial advisor’s role as an intermediary between clients and legal professionals. She also shares her retainer-based fee structure, which is based on the complexity of services rather than assets under management. Based on the training she received through the Alliance of Comprehensive Planners and adoption of the ACP methodology, Koepf says the tax-focused retainer-based approach creates a rich environment for meaningful support and more open conversations with clients. She emphasizes the importance of holistic planning that incorporates tax strategies, and she reflects on her career path while offering valuable advice for aspiring financial planners, highlighting the growing representation of women in the field. In a nutshell: Learn more about Koepf’s professional services and mission at www.TranquilFP.com. Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at https://www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #20 of NAPFA Nation, Christine Simone, founder and CEO of healthcare software company Caribou, and host Marie Swift delve into the vital intersection of healthcare and financial planning. As they explore the significance of healthcare in financial strategies, especially during pivotal life events like retirement, divorce, and job changes, Simone emphasizes the need for advisors to be well-informed about health plan options and Medicare. The conversation highlights the complexities of Medicare, advocating for advisors to initiate discussions with clients at least a year before they reach 65. With a focus on enhancing advisors' educational resources, the episode also teases a resource to help advisors with crucial information for navigating healthcare options: the upcoming Survival Guide for Open Enrollment, set to launch in November. The discussion includes an introduction to Caribou’s healthcare planning software, designed to bridge the gap in comprehensive financial tools addressing healthcare costs. In a nutshell: Learn more about Caribou’s mission and health care planning software at www.CaribouWealth.com. Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at https://www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #19 of NAPFA Nation, Amy Irvine of Rooted Planning Group, shares with podcast host Marie Swift her journey in financial planning. From rebranding her firm, empowering women in financial planning, attracting male clients too, promoting pay equity and DEI within the firm, building client relationships, creating an ensemble of talented women professionals at Rooted Planning Group, and embracing NAPFA membership, Irvine has accomplished a lot in her financial services career. In a nutshell: Learn more about Rooted Planning Group at https://www.RootedPG.com. Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at https://www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #18 of NAPFA Nation, Jordan Dyson, Manager of Associate Development at Buckingham Wealth Partners, talks with podcast host Marie Swift about her involvement in DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives. Dyson advocates for greater inclusion and representation in the financial planning profession through various roles at Buckingham, encompassing client service, operations, strategic initiatives, and her focus on learning and development programs. She stresses the importance of experiential learning, intellectual humility, and the link between employee development and inclusion initiatives. In a nutshell: Buckingham’s Learn more about Buckingham Wealth Partners at www.BuckinghamWealthPartners.com. Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at https://www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #17 of NAPFA Nation, Mike Walther, founder and President of Oak Wealth Advisors, talks with podcast host Marie Swift about working as a financial planning team focused on assisting families with differently abled loved ones. Walther's experiences with his autistic brother inspired the firm's focus on specialized financial planning. Oak Wealth Advisors is recognized for addressing special needs challenges with benefits like supplemental Social Security income and Medicaid, and puts an emphasis on education and advocacy. The firm offers resources on ABLE accounts that promote independence for people with disabilities, collaborates with universities and nonprofits for awareness on special needs planning, and promotes inclusion by featuring artwork by individuals with different abilities. This artwork is incorporated into client communications, showcasing the firm's dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Oak Wealth Advisors engages with organizations offering employment opportunities to empower individuals with disabilities, demonstrating commitment to DEIB principles. In a nutshell: Learn more about Oak Wealth Advisors at www.OakWealth.com. Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at https://www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #16 of NAPFA Nation, Jeff Jones of Longview Financial Advisors, Abby Hasling of The Mather Group, and Stephen Fletcher of EVOadvisers, talk with podcast host Marie Swift about the many reasons they have volunteered their time and energy for NAPFA leadership roles over the years. The episode highlights the benefits of volunteerism and how it enhances leadership skills, facilitates networking and connections, and improves personal, professional, and firm outcomes. Jones discusses his journey of joining NAPFA, serving on the board for eight years, and the personal growth and networking opportunities he gained through volunteerism. Hasling shares her involvement in committees like the NAPFA Women's Initiative and emphasizes the positive impact of volunteer work on personal and professional development. Fletcher highlights how volunteering with NAPFA provided him with diverse perspectives, leadership opportunities, and significant career advancements. All three underscored the welcoming nature of NAPFA’s community and how saying yes to volunteer opportunities had positively impacted their lives. In a nutshell, you’ll hear: Starting the volunteer journey leads to personal growth, building connections, and overall association development. The speakers share valuable insights about volunteer activities within organizations like NAPFA for professional advancement and meaningful engagement in a supportive community. The trio collectively emphasize the benefits of volunteerism in NAPFA for personal and professional development. Learn more about Longview Financial Advisors at www.LongviewFA.com, The Mather Group at www.TheMatherGroup.com, and EVOadvisers at www.EVOadvisers.com. Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at https://www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #15 of NAPFA Nation, Steve Doster, a senior wealth advisor at Rowling & Associates in San Diego, and Michelle Wilson, an independent fiduciary advisor with Athens Impact Socially Responsible Investments in rural Ohio, talk with podcast host Marie Swift about the formation of NAPFA Pride, an affinity group for LGBTQ+ members. Each shares their involvement and goals for the group. The episode highlights upcoming events like a happy hour at the NAPFA conference for members interested in joining NAPFA Pride. Beyond conference gatherings, NAPFA Pride also organizes webinars and conversation circles. They are always looking for committee members and volunteers to organize events. These two NAPFA Members also discuss their specialties in retirement planning, ESG investing, socially responsible investing, and supporting nontraditional families. Doster talks about his nomadic lifestyle living in an Airstream trailer to inspire clients to pursue their dreams without waiting. Wilson, who has even delivered a compelling TEDx talk on Money Scripts, talks about supporting nontraditional families and community initiatives that create a sense of purpose, including plans to open a nonprofit for credit counseling in the community. In a nutshell, you’ll hear about: Wilson believes you should live how you live, love who you love, and live out loud so others will know they are not alone – that that our lives can be a form of activism. Learn more at www.AthensImpact.com. Doster’s personal goal is to spread the word that everyone can get conflict-free financial advice without being sold expensive products. His firm, like Wilson’s, offers fiduciary, fee-only financial advice and wealth management. Learn more at www.Rowling.com. Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at https://www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #14 of NAPFA Nation, David Flores Wilson, Managing Partner of fee-only wealth management and financial planning firm Sincerus Advisory, talks with podcast host Marie Swift about his experience representing his Guam in the 200-meter run at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, Georgia, and his involvement with the Lower East Side Girls Club and other non-profit organizations. To prepare for the Olympics, he took a gap year after high school, and split time between training in Australia and back in Guam with Coach Carl Cruz. He says he would not be where he is today without his family’s support, a great education, hard work, and a bit of luck/timing. He has a deep appreciation for the land and people that make the Chamorro culture so unique. Given his background, it’s no surprise that he enjoys traveling, reading, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, yoga and snowboarding in his free time. Wilson discusses his professional credentials, including being a CFA® (Chartered Financial Analyst) and CFP® (Certified Financial Planner) professional, as well as earning designations such as AEP (Accredited Estate Planner) and CEPA (Certified Exit Planning Advisor), and how he specializes in working with business owners and entrepreneurs, providing comprehensive financial planning services. He also works with Gen X and Gen Y clients who are still accumulating wealth, providing pro-active life event and transitions planning (college financial planning, marriage, real estate purchases and sudden wealth). In terms of philanthropy, he encourages clients to be pursue purpose and to be proactive when it comes to giving back. In a nutshell, here’s what you’ll learn about: A NAPFA Member since 2018, David Flores Wilson, CFA, CFP®, AEP®, CEPA, was named by Investopedia as one of the Top 100 Financial Advisors in 2019 and 2020. His financial guidance has appeared on CNBC, Yahoo! Finance, the New York Times, US News & World Report, Kiplinger, and InvestmentNews. He sits on the Board of Directors as Treasurer for the Lower East Side Girls Club, and is active with the Entrepreneur Organization Accelerator Program, Estate Planning Council of New York City, Advisors in Philanthropy (AiP), and the Exit Planning Institute. Learn more at www.SincerusAdv.com. Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at https://www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #13 of NAPFA Nation, Matt Iverson-Comelo Executive Director of the 501(c)(3) non-profit organization Advisers Give Back (AGB), and Lisa Niera, CFP®, a fee-only wealth advisor with Corient, talk with podcast host Marie Swift about giving back through pro bono financial planning. Launched in 2020, AGB’s scalable online platform matches pro bono clients with pro bono Certified Financial Planning (CFP®) professionals for ongoing, one-on-one advice that helps clients build wealth and achieve their financial goals. The program was developed with noted behavioral economist Dan Ariely. They discuss pro bono financial planning, and the benefits of giving back professionally. Niera shares experiences that she has had working with pro bono clients through the AGB platform. Impact metrics are provided. In a nutshell, here’s what you’ll learn: AGB has partnered with NAPFA to scale pro bono financial planning. The two organizations are on a mission to improve access to pro bono financial planning. With the goal of addressing the racial and gender wealth gaps, as well as the economic hardship brought on by the pandemic and other economic realities, AGB partners with organizations to reach underserved individuals. To learn more, visit: https://AdvisersGiveBack.org Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at https://www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #12 of NAPFA Nation, Dana Wilson, CEO of CHIP (Changing How Individuals Prosper) talks with podcast host Marie Swift about the benefits of building an inclusive workplace culture. CHIP is a B2B financial services marketplace that makes finding financial professionals of color easy. In this lively episode, they discuss the importance of cross mentorship and situational mentorship, emphasizing that mentorship doesn't always have to be formal. Wilson also highlights the significance of being open to feedback and being coachable in order to grow personally and professionally. The conversation shifts to CHIP’s partnership with NAPFA and their shared mission of supporting underrepresented professionals in the financial industry. They envision a future where diversity is embraced, wealth gaps are closed, and individuals feel empowered to define wealth on their own terms. Wilson a encourages listeners to get involved with CHIP by visiting their website or following them on social media platforms. In a nutshell: Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at https://www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #11 of NAPFA Nation, Zach Teutsch, managing partner at Values Added Financial, talks with podcast host Marie Swift about helping “progressives” build financial lives they feel good about. Established in 2017, his fiduciary financial planning and wealth management firm is passionate about supporting people who want to leverage their wealth to make an impact and live a joyful life. Setting the right goals and aligning those goals with one’s values, he says, is the equivalent of setting the GPS for one’s life. The principals and staff at Values Added Financial do not shy away from being real and are known for demonstrating their own diverse and progressive values in the world. This authenticity sets the stage for attracting remarkable and diverse clients and for working in a high-trust environment. The company also attracts and retains quality team members who share their values, freeing everyone to focus on more meaningful work and values/goals alignment. He is an active member of ACP (Alliance of Comprehensive Planners), XY Planning Network, and NAPFA (National Association of Personal Financial Advisors), three professional associations that provide methodologies, community, and resources for fiduciary financial planners. In a nutshell: Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at https://www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #10 of NAPFA Nation, Irfan Bhabhrawala, Owner and Lead Financial Planner at Arbor Financial, talks with podcast host Marie Swift about his career transitions – from a university setting to technology and consulting roles, plus real estate investments, to ultimately becoming the owner of a fee-only financial planning firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Bhabhrawala is proud to be part of the fiduciary movement in financial planning, which prioritizes giving honest advice with minimal conflicts of interest. He shares: In a nutshell: Alliance of Comprehensive PlannersNational Association of Personal Financial Advisors Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at https://www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #09 of NAPFA Nation, Mark Berg, Founding Principal of Timothy Financial Counsel, Inc., talks with podcast host Marie Swift about a new type of firm and a new potential audience for financial advice that is awaiting the financial planning profession. Berg, the Founding Principal of Timothy Financial Counsel, Inc., has proven how this business model can work for both financial advisors and clients – and says that it’s only a matter of time before we see much faster adoption. Berg shares key concepts from his book, A Matter of Time: Principles, Myths and Methods for the Hourly Financial Advisor, co-authored with Matthew Jackson, CFA®, including how financial advisors can: Key points: Berg explains why he chose the hourly model for his firm after receiving calls from clients who didn’t fit the traditional models. He discusses the myths surrounding hourly financial planning and how his firm serves clients at different complexity levels. Berg shares the challenges he faced in building trust and convincing clients about his commitment to the hourly model. The firm has grown from Berg, as a sole practitioner, to a larger firm with multiple advisors. Understanding how they built their team, their hiring process, and the role of partners can provide insights into their success and scalability. Timothy Financial is a financial advisory firm that charges clients hourly for their services. They provide planning, advising, and second opinions to clients across different stages of life. Their value proposition includes validation, ideation, being a trusted thought partner, and serving as a family resource. The firm has experienced significant growth and now has 18 advisors on the team. The firm provides transparency in pricing and offers comprehensive financial planning rather than investment management alone. They assist clients with developing target asset allocations using low-cost ETFs and provide support during implementation. They have built their reputation through networking, referrals from other advisors in the industry, and involvement with organizations like NAPFA (National Association of Personal Financial Advisors). Being part of a professional community like NAPFA has been instrumental in their success and they highly value the support and collaboration it provides. Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at https://www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #08 of NAPFA Nation, one of the founding members and first president of NAPFA, Gary Pittsford, talks with podcast host Marie Swift about his involvement with NAPFA over the past 40 years. He highlights the growth and influence of NAPFA in promoting fee-only financial advice and attracting clients who prefer a fiduciary standard. Pittsford also mentions the significant changes in technology and business models within the industry, and shares his transition from Castle Wealth Advisors, where he served as president and CEO for over 40 years, to assume the role of Chief Valuation Officer at Creative Planning, one of the largest industry leading Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs) in the country. Pittsford is glad to be a part of NAPFA’s 40th anniversary celebration and throughout the episode reflects on the growth and evolution of the financial planning profession. Pittsford shares: Key points: Consumers are, more and more, seeking independent financial advice from advisors who prioritize their needs rather than selling products. Pittsford provides tips for finding fee-only fiduciary advisors through organizations like NAPFA and emphasizes the importance of reducing expenses and risk for older individuals. Aspiring advisors are encouraged to join fee-only firms and consider this profession due to the ever-increasing demand for commission-free financial planning and investment services. He emphasizes how meaningful the work can be and the importance in helping clients with their finances. The financial planning profession is becoming more inclusive and diverse, with NAPFA leading the way in their diversity and inclusion initiatives. Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at https://www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #07 of NAPFA Nation, Glenn Frank, author of the popular book Your Encore: Retirement Planning Guide - How to Balance Time, Money and Joy, discusses the importance of brain chemicals in happiness and suggests a daily practice called the "smiling starfish" to increase happiness per dollar and hour. He also shares his four key takeaways on happiness: daily progress, pleasure within limits, pride in work, and purpose. Frank shares: Key points: Many people mistakenly believe they are helping their parents by doing everything for them, but it often leads to unfulfillment. Seeking advice from parents can be beneficial and even those with disabilities can contribute. There are resources available for people over 50, such as free websites, organizations, and books. Church groups are good at providing support, especially for the sandwich generation. The COVID crisis caused many people to retire earlier than planned, creating an opportunity for financial advisors to help them navigate this transition. Philanthropic giving decisions require careful consideration of time and money, as well as motivation and impact per dollar or hour. Communication of family values is key when involving children in charitable giving decisions. The balance between supporting family and giving to charity is a common dilemma that needs to be addressed based on individual circumstances. It is important to plan both finances and schedules in retirement and find fulfilling ways to spend time through volunteering or working part-time. Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at https://www.NAPFA.org.

In Episode #06 of NAPFA Nation, Lydia Sheckels, CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®, of Wescott Financial Advisory Group, shares highlights from her career in financial services, including how she became fee-only financial planner, and why she decided to eventually join NAPFA and raise her hand for service/leadership roles within the fiduciary community that would come back to help her in unexpected ways. While she set out to simply be of service, the surprise to her was that she learned new things and became a better financial planning practitioner and leader within Wescott, the Registered Investment Advisor and wealth management firm that would eventually become her beloved career home base. Sheckels shares: Key points: When Sheckles joined Wescott, it was “a tiny firm” and the term “fiduciary” was hardly used in financial planning circles. Today, Wescott is one of the larger wealth management firms in the fiduciary community and now the terms “fee-only” and “fiduciary” are used widely in financial planning circles, by personal financial journalists, and professors who are training up the next generation of financial planners, investment advisors, and wealth managers. In addition to the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors, the fiduciary standard is now the “mother standard” for an array of professional organizations such as Alliance of Comprehensive Planners, XY Planning Network, and the Garrett Planning Network. As NAPFA celebrates its 40th anniversary, this podcast with Sheckels is one you won’t want to miss. Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible. Brought to you by NAPFA - the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors - the country’s leading professional association of Fee-Only financial advisors. Learn more about NAPFA at https://www.NAPFA.org

In Episode #05 of NAPFA Nation – livestreamed from the big podcast stage at the 2023 Morningstar Investment Conference in Chicago – Tara Unverzagt, CFP®, of South Bay Financial Partners tells us how she became fee-only financial planner, and why she decided to develop new access points for people who dread facing, or worse, are stressed and worried about financial decisions. Unverzagt has been working in financial planning, investment advice, and tax preparation for over 20 years. She specializes in multigenerational financial planning which includes raising a family, having a successful retirement, generation wealth transfer, and financial coaching for younger generations. But over the years she saw that there need to be more options to help people from all income and asset levels master the intimidating world of money, simplify confusing financial decisions, and manage expenses. Unverzagt shares: Key points: While we all need to be saving for a rainy day and investing for the future, it’s the day-to-day choices that will make or break us. Integrating financial therapy into financial planning helps people learn to relax and move forward in the most productive way. Listing her prices for the various services and programs offered at her firm shows potential clients that she is interested in helping them make better financial decisions – and a good first step is for them to know how much they are paying for the one-time service and/or ongoing interaction and support they need. Understanding how the brain is wired helps us see why people make the decisions they do. Intentional spending is possible with the right information, education, and mindset. Special Note: In 2023, we rebranded the NAPFA podcast with a new album cover and series title: NAPFA Nation. We are shifting our monthly episodes to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, will continue on as host, interviewing a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. You will still be able to find on this channel the 32 Mindset Mastery episodes with respected fiduciary financial planners and allied advocates who are committed to accomplishing great things as they master their own mindset and continue to serve their clients in the best ways possible.