NAPFA Nation Podcast

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.

In Episode #04 of NAPFA Nation, Katie Burke, CFP® and Bridget Grimes, CFP® talk with host Marie Swift about how they became fee-only financial planners with two independently owned and operated firms, plus how – and why – they came together to establish Equita Financial Network (EFN), an umbrella Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) for other women-led RIA firms. Grimes, who was once told by a male in her previous employer’s peer group that she was “too ambitious”, and Burke, who was looking for other like-minded women with whom to create synergies, found each other and built their own solution (EFN) because they couldn’t find it anywhere else. Today, the two are forging ahead, bridging the gap, for other women-led financial planning firms. Burke and Grimes tell us: Key points: As a profession, we need to help women feel valued and supported. Pay transparency, mentorship, role models, flexibility, community, and resources are needed. The financial services industry must do more than just talk the talk; more action is needed – including tangible resources and proven communities of support. Women in the financial advisory world can help by looking for ways to mentor or work alongside other women. Representation and visibility matters. Grit and ambition is needed as an independent business owner; seeing these great qualities, especially in a woman, is important. 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 #03 of NAPFA Nation, Elizabeth Jetton, CFP®, shares thoughts on using mindful conversation to build trust and create engagement. Jetton has been a thought leader in the financial planning profession for the past 20 years. She has been in the financial services industry since 1981, a CFP® professional since 1991, and served as President of The Financial Planning Association in 2004. In 2010, she retired from her financial planning practice to focus on consulting to financial planning firms and teaching. Today she helps advisors and firms build thriving client-centered practices, processes, services and deliverables. She is on the faculty of Golden Gate University where she teaches Personal Financial Planning – a role she began in 2015. Jetton tells us: Key points: Model what’s possible. Sometimes life has its own agenda; the path is not always linear or clear. Just keep walking in the direction that feels right – and as you walk through what may feel like a foggy landscape, watch for and be open to serendipitous surprises. Keep showing up and consider that happenstance can be a good thing. As we move through the seasons of our careers, continue planting seeds; sometimes the seeds may look dormant and we don’t get to see anything but the roots are forming. Find authentic ways to express who you are in the world – and who you are for others. Do your own work as a practitioner. Stay open, curious and humble. 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 #02 of NAPFA Nation, we hear from Wendy Hartman, CFP®, President of Buckingham Strategic Wealth, a growing organization of advisors, financial specialists, and national thought leaders committed to delivering on the promise of true wealth management. As a Registered Investment Advisor, the essence of their approach is based on a pledge to act in the best interest of clients, including individuals, businesses, trusts, Non-Profit organizations, healthcare professionals, and retirement plans. Hartman is responsible for providing strategic leadership, in conjunction with the Buckingham’s Board and other firm leaders. After decades of working as a wealth advisor, she is proud to lead the firm as they continue to safeguard their clients’ lives. Hartman has enduring passion for the industry and recognizes that NAPFA’s role in the financial planning profession is to be a relentless advocate for the Fee-Only community through consumer awareness, education, and partnerships. She joined NAPFA in 2017 and is enthusiastic about her new role as a NAPFA Board member (Chair Elect for the 2022-2023 term). Hartman tells us: How she got started in this profession and why she is passionate about financial planning and the fiduciary standard What is important for financial advisory firms that are growing to think about as they build out their strategy and how Buckingham is approaching growth in 2023 How Buckingham’s strategic objectives stand on four pillars – and what the four pillars are The most important thing for young planners to consider as they chart their career path The key to success and how to set yourself apart in a noisy, digital world Why she is looking forward to transitioning to Board Chair for NAPFA Key point: Many of today’s leaders have adopted management thinker Peter Drucker’s “be (intelligently) curious” philosophy – and this approach is ever more relevant as the world increases in complexity. An article in the Harvard Business Review stresses the importance of being curious, saying: “Leaders don’t need to know everything. In fact, it’s an impossibility. Things change too rapidly for that.” Hartman, who says she tries to stay curious as she moves through life, agrees. She’s always been interested in math and numbers – and her mother was a great encourager of higher education. Golden nuggets from Hartman in the podcast: “Be a curious learner.” “Set yourself apart by bringing best-in-class thinking to your organization.” “Create an open canvas.” 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 #01 of NAPFA Nation, “Talent Pool: Advancing Diversity in the Financial Planning Profession,” we hear from Luis Rosa, CFP®, EA. Rosa came to the U.S. at age 11 from the Dominican Republic. Growing up in New York City, he noticed the lack of financial literacy in his community and was inspired by his parents to work hard and pursue an education. He founded Build a Better Financial Future LLC and is the host of the On My Way to Wealth podcast. In 2019, Rosa was named to the InvestmentNews “40 Under 40” list, Financial Advisor magazine’s “10 Young Advisors to Watch” list, and as Investopedia’s “Top 100 Advisors” list. From participating as an FPA NexGen Ambassador & Host, to speaking at the CFP Board’s Diversity Summit, Rosa uses his platform to help spread financial literacy as well as encourage younger and diverse planners to join and thrive in the industry. He joined NAPFA in May 2020. Rosa tells us: How he got started in this profession and why he made the business decisions he didSome of the biggest money mistakes he made when youngerHow learning about cultural competencies helped him to better serve his clientsWhy being an advocate for DEIB in financial planning is critical to the profession and the communities that advisors serveWhat advisors starting their DEIB journeys might considerWhy he and three other co-founders established theBLX Internshipprogram for aspiring Black and Latinx financial planners to obtain an internship at a fee-only financial planning firm Key point: The financial planning industry is woefully underrepresented from a diversity standpoint. In fact, 73% of Certified Financial Planners are white males. Rosa believes that in order to move the financial planning profession forward, the profession must be more representative of the population of our country. 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.

In Episode #32 of Mindset Mastery, “Emotional Intelligence: How to Improve and Use EQ in Everyday Life,” host Marie Swift, CEO of Impact Communications, recaps the 2022 episodes so that listeners who missed one of these fabulous conversations can get a few quick tips from her summary – and make a note to go back and listen to the episodes that call to them. She also talks about Emotional Intelligence – commonly referred to as EQ, which stands for “emotional quotient.” While IQ tests measure our ability to solve problems, use logic, and grasp or communicate complex ideas. EQ tests measure our ability to recognize emotion in ourselves and others, and to use that awareness to guide our decisions. In a nutshell: Life is full of ups and downs. Learning to deal with emotions creatively and employ our own intelligence in a beneficial way is one of the best things we can do to help ourselves and others. We are subject to a constant stream of positive and negative emotions, but what distinguishes us as human beings is that we are capable of positive change. We must practice emotional intelligence. Like any muscle, it can atrophy if not exercised. This episode provides helpful insights and tips on how the human brain is wired, how to listen and communicate more effectively, and how to make better decisions by working on our EQ – a measure that – unlike IQ – can be improved over time. To learn more about Marie Swift and her work in the financial services industry, visit www.MarieSwift.com. Special Note: In 2023, you’ll see a new album cover and series title! We will be shifting our monthly episodes a bit but will continue to bring you inspiring conversations and key insights from leaders in the Fee-Only financial planning profession. Join Marie Swift, Founder and CEO of Impact Communications, as she interviews a variety of NAPFA members and professionals. 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 #31 of Mindset Mastery, "Choose Wisely: How Mindfulness and Attentive Listening Can Help You Make Better Decisions," host Marie Swift speaks with author, poet, and teacher Gary J. Boelhower, PhD. As Professor Emeritus at The College of St. Scholastica, he continues to teach health humanities; healthcare ethics; living, dying and grieving; and leadership and wholeness. In this episode of Mindset Mastery, he tells us how to become grounded when we are afraid, when to use open-ended questions and inquisitiveness to reduce polarization, and what the most critical skill is if you want to make live a more meaningful life filled with authentic leadership. In a nutshell: Stress can kill our ability to cope. Being fully present for ourselves and for others is the key to staying attentive, focused, and deeply aware. The 3 Dimensions of Awareness – focus, context, and self – come into play and can reduce the fractured feeling we experience in this digital, disrupted world. Appreciative inquiry (exploring the positive with a spark of curiosity) is the way to get more of what we want in life. And while we are approaching yearend, Thanksgiving, and the holidays, it is important to remember that an attitude of gratitude can and should be a yearlong mental practice. To learn more about leadership, mindfulness and the work of Dr. Boelhower, visit www.garyboelhower.com.

In Episode #30 of Mindset Mastery, “Motivate Your Money: Using Conversations and Conscious Decision Making to Realize Success,” host Marie Swift, CEO of Impact Communications, speaks with book author and financial educator Mac Gardner, CFP. In addition to his book for adults, Motivate Your Money, Mac has created a book, coloring and worksheets, and a fun game for kids ages 7+ called 'The Four Money Bears: Berryville'. In this episode of Mindset Mastery, he talks about the five steps to financial success, how to motivate kids and others in our lives when it comes to money, and creating a good mindset as it relates to finances and life. In a nutshell: The 3-Rs can help us master our money mindset. First we must realize what money is, then we must recognize what money does, and finally we must rationalize how to use money in our lives. Having conversations with our kids and grandkids – and others in our lives who might need a little extra inspiration when it comes to money management and financial literacy – is one way to start the process of becoming a better saver, investor, spender, and giver. The motivational messages and stories we tell ourselves are key. After all, says Mac, at the end of the day, we are all just a collection of stories – so might as well make them good ones! To learn more about Mac’s work, the Money Mentors project, The Four Money Bears and Motivate Your Money books, and 'The Four Bears: Berryville' digital game, visit www.thefourmoneybears.com. 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 #29 of Mindset Mastery, “Blessings In Disguise: Using Obstacles to Fuel Success,” host Marie Swift, CEO of Impact Communications, speaks with award-winning journalist Veronica Dagher. In addition to her work as a personal finance reporter for the Wall Street Journal, Dagher is the author of “Resilience: How 20 Ambitious Women Used Obstacles to Fuel Their Success,” an ebook published by the WSJ and exemplified through the WSJ podcast she created and hosted called “Secrets of Wealthy Women,” where she interviewed some of the most successful women in business, media and entertainment. In this episode of Mindset Mastery, she shares some of her favorite stories and lessons learned from those interviews and conversations. In a nutshell: Whether you are a celebrity navigating fame and fortune, an upwardly mobile professional, or a hardworking middle-class American, every one of us has the opportunity to harness the stress of life and to use the obstacles encountered to fuel success. For example, Shark Tank celebrity investor and real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran used grit and determination to overcome the challenges that came with dyslexia and a highly competitive business climate. Carla Harris, a gospel recording artist and Senior Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley, worked extra hard to earn a “seat at the table” and, in addition to her business success, was eventually appointed by President Barack Obama to chair the National Women’s Business Council. Dagher also shares her own coping mechanisms and says she tries to be as kind to herself as she is to others. To follow her work and read recent articles written by Dagher, visit www.wsj.com/news/author/veronica-dagher. 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 #28 of Mindset Mastery, “Rising Stars: Three Fiduciary Planners Speak Up on Career Paths, Role Models and Mentorship,” host Marie Swift, CEO of Impact Communications, speaks with three women who have made fiduciary financial planning and investment management their profession. She is joined by Anabel Diaz, CFP®, MSFP of Natural Bridges Financial Advisors; Cassandra Kirby, CFP®, EA of Braun-Bostich & Associates; and Dani Parris-Exline, CFP®, AFC® of Peace of Mind Financial Planning. Cassie joined her firm 21 years ago and is now a senior advisor and partner. Dani, formerly an HR professional with 20+ years of experience, worked within large companies focused on healthcare, aeronautics, defense and cyberspace before joining her firm two years ago, where she is now a financial planner and partner. Anabel has been with her firm about six years and has worked her way into a client-facing, leadership position. In a nutshell: Each of these women joined an existing financial planning / wealth management firm to help founders build out the team, round out the succession plan, create capacity, and better serve the firm’s growing clientele. Leadership skills have been honed. Cross-mentoring methods are in place. Business models have been refined. They share all this and more in this episode, giving us an “inside look” at how career paths are being forged for others as the financial planning profession increasingly takes a DEIB stance. Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) are four concepts that work together to boost team dynamics, productivity, and innovation within an organization. With DEIB at the core of a company’s mission, team member have equal opportunities to feel valued and do their best work. Learn more about these fiduciary financial planners and their firms here: www.Braun-Bostich.com, www.NaturalBridgesFA.com, and www.PeaceOfMindFinancialPlanning.com. 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 #27 of Mindset Mastery, “Financial Stress: Practical Solutions for Overcoming this Hidden Epidemic,” host Marie Swift, CEO of Impact Communications, speaks with Dr. Alex Melkumian, author of the recently released book, Financial Psychology: Restoring Financial Wellness in a Post-COVID Economy. A licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and founder of Financial Psychology Center in Los Angeles, he is devoted to helping clients improve their financial and mental health by uncovering patterns in their relationship with money that keep them stuck and suffering. In this episode, he provides ideas that can help reduce financial anxiety and improve financial wellness. In a nutshell: Financial psychology is the intersection of financial literacy, emotional awareness, financial beliefs, and cultural factors. Understanding how these factors interplay revitalizes emotional and financial health. You will learn how stress changes our brains, why it is important to demystify the label “stress,” how to silence your inner critic, create mental boundaries, and reclaim control. He explains how to use our emotions wisely and why a “worry session” can actually be a good idea. Learn more about Dr. Melkumian and his book, speeches, and therapeutic services here: www.FinancialPsychologyCenter.com. 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 #26 of Mindset Mastery, “Mind Your Balance: Creating Effortless Success and True Happiness in Your Life,” host Marie Swift, CEO of Impact Communications, speaks with Dr. Travis Parry, author of the recently released book, Achieving Balance, and author of the forthcoming book, Balanced Growth. A former financial advisor, Dr. Parry holds a Doctorate in Family and Human Development, and a Masters in Psychology. He is focused on helping financial advisors – and other entrepreneurs who tend to be “functional workaholics” – achieve balance through the "Make Time Method." In a nutshell: You will learn what triggers fear and counterproductive behavior; how to steer yourself, your clients and your loved ones toward a more fulfilling and happy life; warning signs to consider and actions to protect critical well-being; how to create your ideal calendar and “risk manage your time.” Once we’ve gotten out of the most dangerous ruts and mastered the "Make Time Method," Dr. Parry says we can reinvest our newfound time and energy into balanced growth. It all hinges on using time correctly, in accordance with our personal goals, mission, and values. He even turns Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs on its head. Learn more about Dr. Parry and his books, speeches, and training courses here: www.travisparry.com. 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 #25 of Mindset Mastery, “Beyond DE&I: Inclusive Leadership and What It Means for Business Leaders Today,” guest host Geoffrey Brown, CEO of the National Association of Personal Financial Planners (NAPFA), speaks with Dr. James Pogue, an expert who focuses on helping business leaders understand unconscious bias. In this fascinating conversation, he weaves together funny anecdotes and riveting tales that encourage us to strengthen our own commitment to lead, drive change, and question the status quo. As it relates to Diversity, Inclusion & Bias, there are a few truths that Pogue says can help leaders lead better through the lens of culture and strategy. In a nutshell: You will learn what leaders should keep in mind as they guide their organizations through positive and long-lasting cultural change. When senior leadership takes ownership of a significant change in an organization, the change happens differently than when it is at the entry and managerial levels. Inclusive Leadership is a measurable skill that we can foster and practice. Pogue says we can do more than simply moving the needle; we can change the face and guts of our communities and our business organizations. Learn more about Dr. Pogue and his Inclusive Leadership research, services, and training courses here: www.jamespogue.com. 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 #24 of Mindset Mastery, “Radical Relevance: Building Share of Mind with the Right People the Right Way”, host Marie Swift speaks with Bill Cates, a Hall of Fame speaker, author and coach who has helped thousands of financial professionals and firms to tap into exponential growth by focusing messaging, maximizing client engagement, and leveraging relationships. The founder of Referral Coach International and the creator of the Bill Cates Relationship Marketing System™, Cates provides a comprehensive and systematic approach to building a culture of sustained growth through communicating more relevant and compelling value, as well as generating referrals and personal introductions. In a nutshell: Are you frustrated by how hard it is to reach people these days? It’s not just in your head. The ubiquity of technology in today's society is leaving us more exposed than ever, causing what Bill Cates calls “marketing message overload.” Our brains are being bombarded and pulled in too many directions. To protect ourselves, we filter out any irrelevant messages. This makes it nearly impossible for well-meaning fiduciary advisors and other business professionals to break through and form a meaningful connection. In this podcast, Cates explains the neuroscience behind his formula for creating a culture of client-centered introductions, how to crate a critically compelling message, and what makes for an effective website. Learn more about Bill Cates and his latest book, Radical Relevance, here: www.thecatessystem.com/radical-relevance 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