#15 Mark Schoenbeck - Curiosity, Connection, and Culture

In this episode of Wealth is a Choice, host James Studinger sits down with Mark Schoenbeck, Head of Community and Business Development at Kestra Financial, where he focuses on building meaningful connections among advisors and fostering a culture centered on collaboration, authenticity, and shared experiences. Mark has spent years helping financial professionals strengthen relationships through thoughtfully designed events, conversations, and experiences that go far beyond traditional networking. In this conversation, he shares how powerful human connection can be when people step outside their comfort zones, practice curiosity, and intentionally create space for vulnerability and gratitude. In this conversation, you’ll hear about: • Why meaningful connections often come from shared experiences outside traditional networking environments • How vulnerability and authenticity help build stronger professional and personal relationships • The power of handwritten appreciation and gratitude in strengthening relationships • Why curiosity and active listening are foundational skills for building community • How strong cultures develop through clarity, intentional leadership, and the right people • The difference between transactional relationships and true community • Why human connection may become even more valuable in an increasingly digital world • How small acts of appreciation can create powerful ripple effects The episode closes with Mark’s perspective on wealth, not as money alone, but as the abundance created through relationships, meaningful experiences, gratitude, and the choices we make about how we show up in the world. Listen now and discover why “wealth is a choice”—and how to make it yours. Follow us and never miss an episode. Share your thoughts and questions in the comments—what does “wealth” mean to you? #WealthIsAChoice #HumanConnection #Leadership #CommunityBuilding #Gratitude #Authenticity #BusinessCulture #PersonalGrowth #MeaningfulRelationships #Abundance