DIY Strategic Planning: What Worked, What Didn’t. Lessons Learnt with Dianna Larkin, McCay Duff, Canada.

Facilitating your own firm’s strategic planning retreat can present some unique challenges & opportunities.In this episode of the Authentic Advisor, James Mason interviews Dianna Larkin, a partner at McCay Duff, about her journey in strategic planning and advisory services. Dianna shares her entrepreneurial background, the culture at McCay Duff, and her experience transitioning to a DIY approach for strategic planning retreats. She discusses the challenges and successes of facilitating her own firm’s retreat, the importance of a structured framework, and offers valuable advice for other advisors looking to enhance their strategic planning skills.TakeawaysMcCay Duff focuses on a people-centric culture to retain talent.The firm has a strong history of succession planning.Dianna transitioned to a DIY approach for strategic planning retreats.Using a structured framework helped guide the planning process.Pre-work and spaced sessions improved engagement and productivity.Facilitating her own retreat presented unique challenges.Dianna learned the importance of balancing facilitation and participation.The experience built confidence in her advisory capabilities.Continuous learning and applying tools is key for growth.Chapters00:10 Introduction to Strategic Planning Insights03:12 Dianna's Entrepreneurial Journey06:05 The Role of McCay Duff and Its Culture08:59 Transitioning to DIY Strategic Planning12:22 Implementing the Strategic Planning Framework15:23 Challenges of Facilitating Your Own Retreat18:06 Reflections on the Experience and Future Directions21:15 Advice for Advisors on Strategic Planning