Lillian Turner on Launching a Firm and Leading FPA NexGen in 2026

In this episode of The Blueprint | FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Mike Zarrelli, CFP® , EA and Alison Miller, CFP® sit down with Lillian Turner, CFP® , RLP® , CSLP® founder of Daring Greatly Wealth and 2026 Chair of the FPA NexGen committee. Lillian shares her path from financial scarcity and an unconventional start in the profession to launching her own firm, developing a life-planning-centered approach, and leading the next generation of financial planners.This conversation explores what it really takes to build a career in financial planning when the path is not clear, how to identify alignment in your work, and why discomfort often becomes the catalyst for growth. Lillian also outlines her 2026 vision for FPA NexGen, including support for career changers, first-generation financial planners, and aspiring advisors seeking the right fit in the profession.Executive Producer: @Jadah RileyWhat You’ll LearnHow Lillian Turner built her career in financial planning from the ground upWhy alignment matters when choosing a firm or career pathWhat early-career advisors can do to move past imposter syndromeHow entrepreneurship reshaped Lillian’s view of financial planningFPA NexGen’s 2026 priorities for career changers and aspiring plannersKey TakeawaysGrowth often happens when you are pushed beyond your comfort zoneThe right firm fit can shape both confidence and career trajectoryAuthenticity and values can become a true competitive advantageCareer changers and first-generation planners need more visible pathways into the professionChapters00:00 Welcome + introducing Lillian Turner02:05 Wedding planning, spending, and the client experience mindset06:10 How Lillian found financial planning without a clear roadmap12:20 Breaking into the industry and navigating early career challenges19:05 Moving to Arizona, firm culture, and learning what was not aligned25:10 Becoming a lead advisor unexpectedly and growing through discomfort29:20 Launching Daring Greatly Wealth and building a life-planning practice33:05 How Lillian defines alignment, authenticity, and career fit35:10 Lillian’s 2026 goals as FPA NexGen Chair37:00 The “ignite” question: what accelerated her career