Financial Advisors – Perfectly Integrated

Empowering Women in Finance With Bridget Grimes (Ep.54)

By perfectlyintegrated | December 20, 2023

The relationship between women and careers has been an evolving struggle. What challenges are women currently facing in the financial services industry? And how can that change?

In this episode, Matt Ackermann is joined by Bridget Grimes, President of WealthChoice, co-founder of Equita Financial Network and a wealth advisor for executive women. Bridget shares her journey, from working on Wall Street to launching her own practice, and the challenges many women face in the financial industry.

Bridget discusses:

How her journey through the financial industry promoted a passion for empowering women
Why women are well suited for the financial services industry
The challenges of promoting and retaining women in the industry
The power of mentorships and community for women
And more

Resources:

Corner Office Choices: The Executive Woman’s Guide to Financial Freedom by Bridget Grimes

Connect With Bridget Grimes:

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest:

In 2016, Bridget Grimes founded WealthChoice, a fee-only (commission-free) financial planning firm focused on helping women executives and their families live life on their terms. Launching WealthChoice was the culmination of years of working with career women and helping them overcome challenges to financial security.

She also launched the WealthChoice Community, an organization that hosts guest speakers throughout the year who cover critical career, business, and quality of life topics. The WealthChoice Community also provides the valuable benefit of assembling like-minded women for networking purposes, to provide support for one another, and have meaningful conversations.

Building on that sense of community, in 2018 Bridget co-founded with Katie Burke, CFP(r) Equita Financial Network, a powerful community for women-led financial planning firms, offering a proven platform that includes all the necessary resources to run a comprehensive financial planning firm including professional, outsourced investment management services.

Disclosure:

Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Integrated Partners, a registered investment advisor and separate entity from LPL Financial.

Bridgette Grimes is the President of WealthChoice and is a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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Navigating Career Transitions & Simplifying Wealth Management With Jamie Hopkins [Episode 52]

By perfectlyintegrated | November 22, 2023

When someone quits their job, it’s rarely a big deal. With Jamie Hopkins, his transition was the headline of multiple articles. How does his personal experience and branding set him apart from the crowd?

In this episode, Matt Ackermann speaks with Jamie Hopkins, a financial services advocate with Bryn Mawr Trust, on his career shift to Bryn Mawr Trust, simplifying wealth management complexities, and personal brand development. Jamie explores his journey through personal experience and professional development in different companies and what the future holds for him and the industry.

Jamie discusses:

Why he transitioned to Bryn Mawr Trust
His approach to simplifying wealth management topics
How he built his personal brand to connect with his audience
What the future of wealth management and technology will look like
And more

Connect With Jamie Hopkins:

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

Disclosure:

Jamie Hopkins is a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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An Origin Story of Financial Planning With Ben Combs (Ep. 51)

By perfectlyintegrated | November 8, 2023

Can you imagine a time when having a financial advisor was strange? Someone who could help you target your financial struggles and identify solutions may have existed but getting a degree in financial planning? Focusing your career on this new industry?

It was a whole new world back in 1973.

In this episode, Matt Ackermann is joined by one of the first CFPs and a pioneer of the financial industry, Ben Combs. Ben shares his journey from being one of the first graduates of the Certified Financial Planners program in 1973 to becoming a successful financial planner, discussing the challenges he faced in transitioning from product selling to problem-solving, the importance of building relationships, and the evolution of the industry.

Ben focuses on:

Why he joined the International Association for Financial Planning in 1971
How he felt shifting from a salesman to a financial planner and the reaction others had to his transition
How a lack of community in the beginning impacted early advisors and why he encouraged growth and support
His proudest moment while in the industry
And more

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

Disclosure:

Ben Combs is a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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The Future of Financial Planning With Craig Lemoine (Ep. 50)

By perfectlyintegrated | October 25, 2023

If you close your eyes and imagine the next generation of financial planners, what do they look like? How will they be interacting with clients? How will technology influence their financial planning strategies and communication with clients?

In this episode, Matt Ackermann speaks with Craig Lemoine, Director of Personal Financial Planning at the University of Illinois, on the next generation of financial planning and how the industry has changed over the past 25 years. They talk about the value of internships, apprenticeships, and competitions for students, as well as the challenges of technology and social media.

Craig discusses:

How financial planning has evolved as an industry
What skills and tools the next generations brings to financial planning
How the increase in technology use impacts the way they view information
How that technology impacts their communication and relationship with clients
And more

Connect With Craig Lemoine:

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest:

Craig Lemoine is the Director of the Financial Planning Program at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. He serves as an Associate Clinical Professor, teaching courses in risk management, retirement and financial planning. Craig earned his PhD from Texas Tech University in 2013 and currently holds the Certified Financial Planner ™ and Master Registered Financial Consultant™ designations.

Craig currently serves as the Executive Director of the Academy for Home Equity in Financial Planning, vice-chairman of the Master Registered Financial Consultant Board and is working with his team to develop specialized content in the area of agriculture-focused financial planning. Previously, Craig served on and chaired the CFP® Council of Examination (2009-2014) and was the Executive Director of the Northwestern Mutual Granum Center for Financial at The American College of Financial Services in Bryn Mawr, PA.

Disclosure:

Craig Lemoine is Director of Personal Financial Planning at the University of Illinois and is a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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Exploring Insurance in Financial Planning With Peter Kaplan (Ep. 49)

By perfectlyintegrated | September 13, 2023

Have you considered adding insurance to a financial plan? How should advisors start that conversation? What should advisors know when considering adding insurance to a financial plan?

In this episode, Matt Ackermann is joined by Peter Kaplan with Integrated Partners, in discussing the importance of insurance in financial planning and the need for customized solutions for each client. He emphasizes the value of having a planning mindset and understanding each client’s unique situation and goals when adding insurance to their financial plans.

Peter discusses:

Why do advisors and wealth managers avoid discussing insurance
How he entered the insurance industry
The importance of having a planning mindset in insurance
When and where the insurance conversation should happen in financial planning
And more

Connect With Peter Kaplan:

LinkedIn: Peter Kaplan

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest:

Innovative financial services entrepreneur and dynamic business executive with a successful history of over 30 years. Skilled in Sales, Business Development, Life Insurance, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Technology, Leadership and Management, and Strategic Planning. Peter serves as Senior Vice President of Insurance Solutions at Integrated Partners, specializing in the design, implementation, and management of sophisticated life insurance portfolios.

Disclosure:

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Focusing on the Service and Care in a Dollar-Centric Industry With Josh Benson (Ep. 48)

By perfectlyintegrated | August 2, 2023

In an industry focused on creating wealth and building client investments, the idea of client relationships and services can seem like a secondary priority. Those connections are the foundation of any financial advisor and client relationship.

In this episode, Matt Ackermann speaks with Josh Benson, Vice President of Strategic Relations at Integrated Partners, on why relationships, service and care are essential in an industry focused on money. Josh shares how he works to create a connection between other advisors and clients and why he builds those connections.

Josh discusses:

Why service is essential in the financial services space
The importance of culture within the services
How his role supports advisor growth within Integrated Partners
What is his vision for success look like
And more

Resources:

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest:

During his impressive tenure at Orion, Josh has earned a reputation as a trusted advisor, working closely with financial professionals to provide customized consultations, comprehensive training sessions, and exceptional service. Now, as part of the Integrated Partners team, Josh brings his wealth of knowledge and unwavering dedication to building strong partnerships within our organization.

Disclosure:

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The Rules of Advertisement, Endorsements and Referrals With John Cataldo (Ep. 47)

By perfectlyintegrated | July 12, 2023

When someone leaves a positive review about your business, that can be great advertising. But when does it cross the line between freely given advertisements and paid or encouraged endorsements?

In this episode, Matt Ackermann is joined by John Cataldo, President-Advisory Services and Chief Legal Officer at Integrated Partners, in discussing the importance of understanding new rules as they are made that pertain to advertisement and referrals. John explores how advisors can promote their businesses and encourage endorsements while still following the rules of advertisement.

John focuses on:

How compliance can be seen as a positive function of the business rather than a security blanket
The new rules surrounding advertisements, testimonials and referrals
Where endorsements fall under the new rules
Why advisors need to be aware of the new rules
And more

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest:

John Cataldo has engaged in practice as a regulator and private counsel. He specialized in securities law and regulatory initiatives and engaged in general litigation, business consulting, and estate planning. John is a former member of the Executive Committee for Investors Capital®, where he directed their Compliance, Field Supervisory, Regulatory and Licensing operations. He has been involved in securities regulation for his entire career, starting at the Securities Division of the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and continuing in his legal career both at a major international law firm and then in his own law practice, which John ultimately merged into D’AmbrosIo Brown LLP.

Disclosure:

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How Creative Marketing Shapes Financial Planning Practices With Angel Gonzalez (Ep. 46)

By perfectlyintegrated | April 12, 2023

There are some commercials that stick with you, either because they are funny or have a catchy image or something else. What they all have in common is that they are creative with their ideas.

In this episode, Matt Ackermann talks with Angel Gonzalez, Co-Founder of Snappy Kraken, about why being creative is essential to marketing. Angel explores some examples of creative marketing strategies and why they are essential for financial advisors to understand, whether they think about marketing or not.

Angel discusses:

Why creative thinking matters in financial marketing
How to moderate or enhance creativity through teamwork
Where personalization and customizations fit within a marketing strategy
How marketing infiltrates every aspect of business and the importance of understanding your marketing
And more

Resources:

Connect With Angel Gonzalez:

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest:

Angel D. Gonzalez is one of three founders and currently serves as Chief Marketing Officer for Snappy Kraken, overseeing the company’s brand, voice and content strategy. His big focus is in copywriting, marketing strategy, content creation, and product development. Angel spends a big part of his days connecting the different pieces of marketing campaigns and collaborating with his team.

Disclosure:

Angel Gonzalez is Co-Founder of Snappy Kraken and is a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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The Growing Role of CPAs in Financial Planning With Seth Fineberg and Paul Saganey (Ep. 45)

By perfectlyintegrated | March 22, 2023

CPAs require rigorous testing, hours of training and most importantly, a high level of ethics. These three aspects contribute to the growing need for CPAs and their personal connections with clients.

In this episode, Matt Ackermann speaks with Seth Fineberg, a freelance editor and account industry consultant, and Paul Saganey from Integrated Partners. They focus on the CPA industry and how accountants are growing within their role in the financial planning industry.

Seth and Paul discuss:

Why is there a deep level of trust between CPAs and their clients
How could accountants and financial advisors provide growth for each other
What is the next wave for CPAs business
How can CPAs take the next step toward success
And more

Connect With Seth Fineberg:

LinkedIn: Seth Fineberg

Connect With Matt Ackermann and Paul Saganey:

About Our Guests:

Paul Saganey

As a practicing advisor for over 30 years Paul Saganey understands what it’s like to build a strong practice and deepen my existing relationships. When he launched integrated in 1996, his goal was to build an organization that offers vision, support and direction for the future growth of our practices. By collaborating with industry professionals and my peers, Paul researches the economic and regulatory landscape to successfully reach that goal.

Seth Fineberg

Seth Fineberg is an accounting- and business-focused writer and editor based in New York City. He was the editorial team leader for AccountingWEB’s US community from 2015 until 2022.

Disclosure:

Seth Fineberg is a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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An Update On Retirement Planning Using Secure Act 2.0 With Will Hackler And Jason Grantz (Ep. 44)

By perfectlyintegrated | February 8, 2023

During the pandemic, the Secure Act became an essential piece of retirement planning for all ages. At the end of 2022, the Secure Act 2.0 came along with new legislation for retirement planning.

In this episode, Matt Ackermann is joined by Will Hackler, President of Integrated Pension Services, and Jason Grantz, Managing Director of Sales and Marketing at Integrated Pension Services. Together they unpack the Secure Act 2.0 and how those changes impact retirement planning for retirees and pre-retirees.

Will and Jason discuss:

How have the updates to the Secure Act changed the way pre-retirees plan for retirement
What are the immediate and future impacts of the changes made to the Secure Act 2.0
How student debt has evolved to become an essential part of long-term financial planning
The possibilities of future changes and how those changes could impact the way retirement plans are built
And more

Connect with Will Hackler:

Connect With Jason Grantz:

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest:

William D. Hackler has worked extensively in the administration of 401(k), pension and profit-sharing plans since 1995. He graduated from Bryant University with a B.S. in Finance and earned the American Society of Pension Professionals and Actuaries designation of Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA).

Will constantly pursues the newest technologies to provide world-class service and the best solutions available for his clients. His mission is to provide superior service and to help others chart a course for success.

As the Managing Director of the Institutional Retirement Plans Sales & Marketing teams for Integrated Pension Services, Jason Grantz is responsible for all Top Line Revenue creation. This includes overseeing all sales and marketing staff, establishing goals and implementing plans to achieve these goals for the firm and its clients. With over 25 years of experience in every aspect of retirement plan and pension consulting, including plan design, operations, investments, and advanced fiduciary plan governance, his main mission is simple: to expand retirement security nationally and help defeat elder poverty by creating more well-designed plans.

Disclosure:

Will Hackler and Jason Grantz are with Integrated Pension Services and are a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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The CrossFit and Finance Crossover With Jessica Bost (Ep.43)

By perfectlyintegrated | January 18, 2023

There are a million moments that build trust with your clients, whether they are training in the gym or organizing their finances.

In this episode, Matt Ackermann has guest Jessica Bost, RICP® CrossFit trainer turned financial advisor on the podcast to share her journey from motivating clients in the gym, to motivating clients from a financial perspective.

Jessica discusses:

How she went from trainer to advisor
Her perspective on how helping people can build your own ego
The ways she deals with obstacles, and how she helps her clients get around them
How she views discipline and how she stays motivated
And more

Connect With Jessica Bost:

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest:

Mrs. Bost launched a financial planning firm, Wealth is Strength, in 2020, utilizing her keen understanding of the personal training landscape to create behavior-focused personal finance solutions for fitness-minded individuals wanting to learn how to intentionally build wealth.

Prior to that, her rapid growth from Administrative Assistant to COO/Planner of an independent advisory firm helped form her passion for structured planning as the integral piece of building wealth. Throughout her years in wealth management, Jess has also continued as a CrossFit coach and personal trainer. Helping individuals learn to build both wealth and health have become an indivisible part of her legacy and focus.

Disclosure:

Jessica Bost is Vice President of Brand Partnerships at Alpha Architect and is a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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The Advisors Growth Conundrum With Steve Sanduski (Ep. 42)

By perfectlyintegrated | January 4, 2023

Many advisors think they are growing their business effectively. The numbers show a different story. Why aren’t advisors growing the way they think they are?

In this episode, Matt Ackermann speaks with Steve Sanduski, Co-Founder and CEO of ROL Advisor and NYT Best Selling Author, on the lack of balanced growth within the advisor industry. Steve dives into the differences between organic and M&A growth and how they benefit businesses together rather than separately.

Steve discusses:

Why a lack of organic growth reduces a companies future growth
How have advisors changed the way they build their business
The importance of balancing organic growth with M&A growth
What can advisors do to start their journey towards growth
And more

Connect With Steve Sanduski:

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

Disclosure:

Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advice offered through Integrated Partners, a registered investment advisor and separate entity from LPL Financial. Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. Steve Sanduski CEO Advisor Network, and all other mentioned individuals and entities are not affiliated with Integrated Financial Partners or LPL Financial.

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Making The Great Even Better With John Pastore and Steve Vono (Ep. 41)

By perfectlyintegrated | December 21, 2022

Influence has become a key factor in growing a business and connecting with individuals. How can you increase influence to grow your business through key individuals and company wide synergy?

In this episode, Matt Ackermann is joined by John Pastore, Senior Vice President and Private Wealth Manager of Integrated Partners, and Steve Vono, Senior Vice President of McGowan Pro, in discussing centers of influence and synergy between advisors and how they impact the growth of a business.

John and Steve discuss:

What and who are centers of influence
How to get and to keep credibility as a new and experienced advisor
The importance of creating a network
Leveraging your expertise across multiple partners
And more

Connect With John Pastore:

John Pastore

Connect With Steve Vono:

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest:

John Pastore

John Pastore is a Senior Vice-President at IFP. He provides advice and counsel to advisors, staff, and partners. John is dedicated to improving the quality of life of clients, advisors and professional partners.

Steve Vono

Steve Vono is a Senior Vice President at McGowanPRO and focuses on Accountants professional liability insurance. He is active in several leading accounting associations and presents regularly at annual conferences for the Association of Accounting Administrators (AAA), PKF, GGI, MGI World, Enterprise Worldwide, CPA-USA and the Leading Edge Alliance, Sam Allred’s Upstream Academy and many more.

Steve currently serves as President of the AAA Northeast Chapter, and the recipient of their Distinguished Service Presidential Citation for outstanding support and contributions to members of AAA. (June 2010). He has written and published several articles on practice management and errors and omissions insurance for accounting firms for the Journal of Accountancy and other publications. He contributes content for insurance programs for the accounting industry.

Disclosure:

Steve Vono is Senior Vice President of McGowan Pro and is a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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The Power Of Partnerships In Growth With David Kline (Ep. 40)

By perfectlyintegrated | December 8, 2022

For many advisors, growing their business means growing their workload. How can a partnership balance the two?

In this episode, Matt Ackermann speaks with David Kline, a private wealth advisor with Integrated Financial Partners, and Mark McGaunn, CEO of McGaunn and Schwadron, on the connection between partnerships and growth within the business.

David and Mark discusses:

What does growth mena to them
How did they initially connect and why do they continue working together
What benefits does a partnership provide to clients
How has the partnership allowed them both to thrive
And more

Connect With David Kline:

Connect with Mark Mcgaunn:

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest:

David Kline

As a Private Wealth Advisor, David specializes in helping business executives, professionals, high net worth individuals, and their families navigate the complexities of their financial lives. After obtaining an in-depth understanding of each client’s situation, his team will identify potential gaps and create customized strategies to address their concerns.

Mark McGaunn

Mark plays a special role in the lives of his clients. Known as “the bow-tie guy”, he has consulted veterinarians and dentists nationally for more than 30 years, and been featured in magazines, conferences, and live events around the world.

Disclosure:

Mark McGaunn is Mcgaunn and Schwadron and is a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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Advice for the Next Generation of Financial Planners With Patrick Mahoney and Dennis Moore (Ep. 39)

By perfectlyintegrated | October 26, 2022

Financial planning is a young profession compared to other careers, with the CFP designation only existing for around fifty years. What can young professionals look towards as they enter the evolving industry?

In this episode, Matt Ackermann is joined by Patrick Mahoney, CEO of Financial Planners Association, and Dennis Moore, President of Financial Planners Association, on the continual evolution of the financial planning industry and the role of young entrepreneurs looking to enter the profession.

Patrick and Dennis discuss:

Where do things stand for RIAs in the current financial market
What issues should financial planners keep in mind as the industry evolves
How important is a financial advisors label
What advice would they give to a young advisor within the FPA
And more

Connect With Patrick and Dennis:

Patrick Mahoney

Dennis Moore

Financial Planning Association

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest:

Patrick Mahoney

Patrick D. Mahoney is CEO and Board Secretary of the Financial Planning Association. He is an experienced CEO, association and business leader, and strategist with a background across diverse organizations in the financial services, technology, and mission-based sectors. He is recognized for building and mentoring diverse teams and creating growth strategies that integrate the passion and expertise of an organization’s members, volunteer leaders, and employees to meet its goals and mission.

Dennis Moore

Dennis J. Moore, MBA, CFP® currently serves as the volunteer president of the Financial Planning Association® (FPA®), the leading membership organization for CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals and those engaged in the financial planning process.

Moore is director of wealth management operations for Mercer Advisors, one of the nation’s largest independent RIAs and a firm that has been dedicated to financial planning since it was founded in 1985. At Mercer Advisors, Moore blends his passion for financial planning with his in-depth knowledge of the systems, processes, and support needed to deliver financial planning on a national scale.

Disclosure:

Patrick Mahoney, Dennis Mort, Financial Planners Association and Integrated Financial Partners are separate entities and not affiliated with LPL Financial.

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Finding – And Keeping – Amazing Talent With Andree Mohr and Liz Manibay (Ep.38)

By perfectlyintegrated | August 10, 2022

A McKinsey study reveals that superior talent is up to EIGHT times more productive. How can you locate these talented individuals within a group of interviewees?

In this episode, Matt Ackermann is joined by Andree Mohr, Chief Implementation Officer at Integrated Partners, and Liz Manibay, Managing Director of Charles Schwab, on finding and keeping great talent within a sea of employees and interviews.

Andree and Liz discusses:

How can you draw out talented individuals within an interview?
What is the key to finding great talent?
What does great talent want and need within a company?
Where are the great firms of tomorrow heading?
And more

Connect with Andree Mohr:

LinkedIn: Andree Mohr

Connect With Liz Manibay:

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest:

Andree Mohr takes great pride in her ability to effectively transition advisors to Integrated, creating a smooth process for all involved. Our partner firms have made an important decision by choosing Integrated Partners. Having managed the transition of over 160 advisors and 50,000+ client accounts, Andree has witnessed first-hand how crucial it is to maintain discipline, apply a strong process and ensure that she is with our new team members every step of the way as they come aboard.

Liz Manibay is managing director of Charles Schwab.

Disclosure:

Liz Manibay is managing director of Charles Schwab and is a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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How Recessions Opened Possibilities For Independent Practices With Brad Bueermann (Ep. 37)

By perfectlyintegrated | July 27, 2022

In moments of crisis, you can steer off the cliff’s edge or skid to a stop and look over the edge. The mindset of entrepreneurs has changed to reflect on past mistakes and their impact on the industry’s future.

In this episode, Matt Ackermann is joined by Brad Bueermann, CEO of FP Transitions, in discussing the RIA industry, the current path of RIA businesses and what the mindset shift of the industry will look like after one of the steepest recessions.

Brad discusses:

How is the threshold for RIA business success
The difference between a purchase and an investment in businesses
The possible increase in consolidation within RIA businesses
What does the future of RIA business look like
And more

Connect With Brad Bueermann:

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest:

Brad is a nationally recognized speaker and thought leader on matters of business value, equity management, and mergers and acquisitions for independent financial professionals. Brad’s forward-thinking and groundbreaking work on building enterprise value and creating sustainable firms has made him an important thought leader in the industry, and a frequent conference speaker.

Disclosure:

Brad Bueermann is CEO of FP Transitions and is a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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The Two F’s Of Financial Planning With Paul Saganey (Ep.36)

By perfectlyintegrated | July 18, 2022

There are two major F words often used to answer why people save: family or future.

In this episode, Matt Ackermann is joined by Paul Saganey, President and Founder of Integrated Partners, as well as a good friend, in discussing why people save and the role of family and future within financial planning.

Paul discusses:

What inspires financial savings
The importance of having the right people for the right job
How financial planners have evolved with the clients
Why family is important in financial planning
And more

Connect With Paul Saganey:

Paul Saganey

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest:

As a practicing advisor for over 30 years, Paul Saganey understands what it’s like to build a strong practice and deepen existing relationships. When he launched integrated in 1996, it was his goal to build, alongside fellow advisors, an organization that offers vision, support and direction for the future growth of their practices. By collaborating with industry professionals and his peers, Paul researches the economic and regulatory landscape to move towards that goal.

Disclosure:

Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Integrated Partners, a registered investment advisor and separate entity from LPL Financial.

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Social Media’s Advice On Financial Planning With Sonya Lutter (Ep.35)

By perfectlyintegrated | June 8, 2022

35% of gen Z are learning about financial planning from TikTok, even more when taking into account other social media platforms. The clients understanding is expanding even before speaking with an advisor.

In this episode, Matt Ackermann is joined by Sonya Lutter, Director of Research and Academy at Herbers and Company, they discuss the current understanding of financial planning through social media and the comprehension clients have before interacting with financial advisors. Sonya reveals the mindset surrounding money, diving into the impact of societal beliefs surrounding money and why financial planning isn’t discussed openly.

Sonya discusses:

The impact of easy access to knowledge on education
Why financial advisors remain a necessity
The questions children are asking about finances
What are some of the most common behavioral issues with money
And more

Connect With Sonya Lutter:

Sonya Lutter https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonya-lutter-5005834/
Herbers And Company https://www.herbersandcompany.com/

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

info@ifpadvisor.com
(781)890-3045
Integrated Partners https://integrated-partners.com/
LinkedIn: Matt Ackermann https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-ackermann-b21a0515/
LinkedIn: Integrated Partners https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrated-partners/
Twitter: Integrated Partners https://twitter.com/Integrated4FAs

About Our Guest:

Sonya Lutter, PhD, CFP®, LMFT, is researcher, educator, financial planner and therapist. She worked in higher education for over 15 years before joining Herbers & Company as Director of Research and Academy. Previously she was administrator over Applied Human Sciences at Kansas State University. She has published over 60 peer-reviewed publications, written several edited books, and is a regular speaker in financial services.

Disclosure:

Sonya Lutter is Director of Research and Academy at Herbers and Company and is a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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It’s All About Execution With Kelly Waltrich (Ep.34)

By perfectlyintegrated | May 18, 2022

Marketing and sales go hand in hand when it comes to building your business. But, creating your marketing ideas will only take you so far without executing them.

In this episode, Matt Ackermann is joined by Kelly Waltrich, co-founder of Intention.ly. Kelly shares her knowledge of execution, building a plan with her team and creating the vision of her clients into reality. She reveals quick tips for developing your image and the details that are often missed.

Kelly discusses:

How to individualize yourself
The importance of having a great team
The non glamorous side of planning
How to turn growth plans into reality
And more

Connect With Kelly Waltrich:

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest:

For over 15 years, Intention.ly Co-founder Kelly Waltrich has been championing the role of marketing in the financial services industry. As former Chief Marketing Officer at eMoney Advisor and Orion Advisor Solutions, she proved time and again that there is no better driver of an organization’s growth and overall success than a well-run marketing and communications team. At eMoney and Orion, Waltrich built powerhouse marketing teams from the ground up, developing the engines that would fuel the highest periods of growth for both companies.

Disclosure:

Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Integrated Partners, a registered investment advisor and separate entity from LPL Financial.

Kelly Waltrich is the co-founder of Intention.ly and is a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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Find The Who’s And Trust The Process With Andree Mohr and John Pastore (Ep. 33)

By perfectlyintegrated | April 27, 2022

When an advisor is building a business, it is easy to become swept up in what they think are fires, instead of growing their business. What they are missing is the importance of sticking to a process and finding professionals who can help build their referrals.

In this episode, Matt Ackermann is joined by Andree Mohr, Chief Implementation Officer and John Pastore, Senior Vice President & Private Wealth Manager of Integrated Partners. The trio discuss why building a business in rainmaking is difficult for advisors and how they can develop their practice through partnerships with CPAs. Andree and John reveal the key components to a successful partnership for both parties.

Andree and John discuss:

How working with centers of influence can be the answer to finding referrals
Why advisors need to trust the process
How to overcome hurdles in relationships between advisors and CPAs
The importance of putting in the work
And more

Connect with Andree Mohr:

LinkedIn: Andree Mohr

Connect With John Pastore:

LinkedIn: John Pastore

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guests:

John Pastore’s background traces his roots back to Marriott International where a “spirit to serve” was drilled into him. This ethic led to him being promoted to Director of National Accounts where he held relationships with some of Marriott’s biggest clients. John brought that same dedication and philosophy to Integrated while building the Professional Partner Program.

Disclosure:

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The Right Technology For The Job With Joel Bruckenstein (Ep.32)

By perfectlyintegrated | April 13, 2022

Technology like Zoom has become a staple in the workplace. While it may have been difficult for some, finding and understanding beneficial technology for each task allows advisors to adapt to client demand in the modern world.

In this episode, Matt Ackermann is joined by president of T3 Technology and T3 advisor conference producer, Joel Bruckenstein. Joel shares his expertise in technology, finding the right software and understanding the tools to use in reaching different goals.

Joel discusses:

How the pandemic changed the perspective and use of technology
The two types of advisors in adapting to technology
Why education on technology is important for advisors
How to evaluate the proper software for your uses
And more

Connect With Joel Bruckenstein:

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest:

Joel P. Bruckenstein, CFP®, is an internationally recognized expert on applied technology for financial professionals and Publisher of Technology Tools for Today (T3) — formerly Virtual Office News, now dubbed the T3 Tech Hub.

He is also the producer of the annual T3 Advisor Conference, the premier technology conference for independent financial advisors, as well as the T3 Enterprise Conference, an annual gathering of top executives from independent broker/dealers and large RIAs. He also hosts other technology summits in partnership with thought leaders in the financial services industry (e.g., Brian Hamburger of MarketCounsel) and his own by-invitation-only fintech summit every summer. In 2020, Bruckenstein will produce for the first time a new one-day intensive called T3 Cyber University.

Bruckenstein has for more than twenty years advised financial service firms of all sizes on improving their technologies, processes and workflows.

Disclosure:

Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Integrated Partners, a registered investment advisor and separate entity from LPL Financial.

Joel Bruckenstein is the president of T3 Technology and is a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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The Evolution Of Client Communication With Carol Anderson and Andree Peterson (Ep.31)

By perfectlyintegrated | March 30, 2022

With technology’s constant evolution, the number of ways financial advisors can provide efficient and comprehensive advice increases through the tools we now have access to.

In this episode, Matt Ackermann is joined by the FPA Carol Anderson, President of MQ Research And Education, and Andree Peterson, Chief Implementation Officer at Integrated Partners. They reveal how communication has evolved thanks to technology and the impact this has on client comprehension regarding their own financial and retirement plans.

Carol and Andree discuss:

Different types of communication methods
How a difference in knowledge impacts communication and understanding
The pandemics impact on technology acceptance
What the future holds for client advisor communication
And more

Connect With Carol Anderson:

Connect With Andree Peterson:

Andree Peterson

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guests:

Carol:

Carol Anderson is the founder and President of MQ Research & Education™ . She has an M.S. in Consumer Economics & Family Resource Management and a diverse background in business, education, and financial services. Since 1989, Carol has focused on the issues of financial planning education, retirement preparation, life planning, and productive aging. As a researcher, writer, and consultant, Carol has worked with a broad range of companies and non-profit organizations in designing studies, conducting analyses, and compiling research reports. In addition, Carol has written articles, developed publications, and designed educational tools, materials, and training workshops. She is a member of the Financial Planning Association,Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education, and Financial Therapy Association. When not working, Carol enjoys spending time with her family and pets, gardening, and hiking.

Andree:

Andree Peterson helps create successful referral relationships between CPAs and advisors through The Integrated CPA Alliance. This program has been in place since the inception of the firm and her role includes supporting its growth and evolution. They now proudly call over 127 CPA firms their trusted resources – they know they can count on Integrateds’ advisors to deliver for their clients, and vice-versa. It is perhaps the most sought-after growth driver at the firm, among many.

She takes great pride in my ability to effectively transition advisors to Integrated, creating a smooth process for all involved. Their partner firms have made an important decision by choosing Integrated Partners. Having managed the transition of over 160 advisors and 50,000+ client accounts, Andree has witnessed first-hand how crucial it is to maintain discipline, apply a strong process and ensure that she is with the new team members every step of the way as they come aboard.

This may be a business decision, but it is also highly personal. Andree find ways to solve complex problems quickly, and ways to meet the needs of individual clients while maintaining efficiency, all the while keeping in mind the emotional side of a transition.

Disclosure:

Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Integrated Partners, a registered investment advisor and separate entity from LPL Financial.

The Integrated CPA Alliance is not affiliated with LPL Financial.

Carol Anderson is President of MQ Research and Education and is a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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Competition, Collaboration, and Concepcion With Jeff Concepcion and Paul Saganey (30)

By perfectlyintegrated | March 16, 2022

Many business owners fear competition but a true entrepreneur understands the benefits of healthy competition.

In this episode, Matt Ackermann is joined by Jeff Concepcion from Stratos Wealth Partners and Paul Saganey from Integrated Partners. Jeff and Paul share how their relationship began, the perceived competition between advisors and companies and how they work.

Jeff and Paul discusses:

If advisers see other advisers as “the competition”
What’s the Stratos strategy and vision are
What Integrated Partners unique value prop is
The power of culture and working with CPAs
The pandemic’s biggest impact on the RIA space
And more

Connect With Jeff Concepcion:

Connect With Matt Ackermann and Paul Saganey:

About Our Guest:

Paul Saganey:

As a practicing advisor for over 30 years Paul Saganey understands what it’s like to build a strong practice and deepen my existing relationships. When he launched integrated in 1996, his goal was to build an organization that offers vision, support, and direction for the future growth of our practices. By collaborating with industry professionals and my peers, Paul researches the economic and regulatory landscape to successfully reach that goal.

Jeff Concepcion:

Jeffrey Concepcion is the Founder and CEO of Stratos Wealth Partners, a firm that he launched in October of 2008. Jeff is responsible for the acquisition, development and coaching of the firm’s expanding number of affiliated advisors from across the nation. This is a role he embraces and understands due to the fact that in addition to his leadership responsibilities, he also maintains a personal planning practice.

Disclosure:

Jeff Concepcion is the founder and president of Stratos Wealth Partners and is a separate entity and not affiliated with Integrated Partners and LPL Financial.

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