Focused on the Future

What happens when technology removes friction instead of adding to it? And how does that shift reshape the value of human advice? In this episode of Focused on the Future, host Suzanne Siracuse interviews Dani Fava, chief strategy officer at Carson Group, about how artificial intelligence is transforming financial advice by increasing advisor capacity and enhancing client relationships. Dani shares how Carson’s proprietary AI assistant is helping advisors streamline workflows, prepare for meetings and access client insights instantly.  She also explains why the demand for human connection is rising, how advisors can scale without losing personalization and why the future of advice is more relationship-driven than ever. Key takeaways: How early automation shaped her career and led to a focus on efficiency through technology innovation Why natural language interfaces are removing barriers and changing how advisors interact with systems How AI tools are boosting advisor capacity and allowing them to serve more households effectively Why human connection is becoming more valuable as automation increases across industries How firms can integrate technology while still relying on expertise to serve high-net-worth clients Resources: Listen to Focused on the Future on Wealth Management Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Spotify Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Dani Fava: LinkedIn: Dani Fava LinkedIn: Carson Group Website: Carson Group About Our Guest: Dani Fava serves the pivotal role of Chief Strategy Officer at Carson Group, wielding over two decades of experience in wealth management to drive our strategic direction. Charged with enhancing the client experience through differentiated products and services, Dani’s leadership is instrumental in shaping innovative growth strategies and advancing the industry on financial advice and the use of AI. Before joining Carson Group, Dani held influential positions at Envestnet and TD Ameritrade, where she spearheaded initiatives such as digital onboarding, strategic partnerships, and AI integration. Dani’s contributions include the development of advisor technologies like iRebal and the Model Market Center, reflecting her commitment to empowering advisors with cutting-edge tools and insights. Her impact and forward-thinking vision earned her a spot on FinTech Magazine’s Top 100 Women in FinTech (2021), InvestmentNews’ Women to Watch (2020), and ThinkAdvisor’s 2020 IA25, underscoring her status as a trailblazer in wealth management innovation. In addition to her professional achievements, Dani is recognized for her thought leadership in the industry, often speaking at conferences and contributing to discussions on the future of financial technology. Dani also serves on the board of Language & Culture Worldwide (LCW), a culture consulting company. This work is an extension of her commitment to see more inclusion in the wealth management industry. Beyond her professional pursuits, Dani finds joy in the company of her loved ones, including her life partner, Julie, and their two children, Camryn and Frankie. Their family is completed by three beloved dogs—Slim Shady, Ghostface and Dolly Parton. When not immersed in strategy, Dani indulges her obsessive passion for pickleball, a testament to her commitment to both work and play. Embracing the guiding principle of “Per aspera ad astra” (from the ashes to the stars), Dani embraces resilience and determination in her pursuit of transformative opportunities for advisors in an ever-evolving market landscape.

What truly drives long-term growth in a financial advisory business? Is it better tools, stronger strategies, or something far more human at the core? In this first episode of season 4 of the Focused on the Future podcast, host Suzanne Siracuse interviews Dany Martin, partner and wealth advisor at WFA, about how relationship-first thinking shapes a sustainable advisory business. He shares how early exposure to residual income led him into financial planning, and how serving athletes and women became a natural extension of his values.  Dany also explains how artificial intelligence is enhancing efficiency without replacing human connection, and why hiring career changers has strengthened his firm’s culture and client experience. Key takeaways: Why working with athletes revealed the need for structure, guidance, and long-term financial protection How focusing on women clients led to stronger relationships and deeper, more meaningful planning conversations How AI improves efficiency and service delivery without replacing human connection and trust Why hiring career changers builds stronger teams through trust, curiosity, and real-life experience Resources: Listen to Focused on the Future on Wealth Management Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Spotify Tested in the Trenches by Ron Carson Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Dany Martin: LinkedIn: Dany Martin LinkedIn: WFA Website: WFA  About Our Guest: Dany Martin, a south Louisiana native but Shreveport resident, was in search of a service-oriented, innovative, and proactive wealth management organization. He wanted a team that focused on exceeding clients’ needs and upholding the highest standard of service. His mission is to be a student of life and educate others about the profound, positive impact that sound financial planning will have on peoples’ lives and on their families. He is also a huge advocate of positive thinking and leadership. Dany’s passion for helping others strive for financial health started during his high school years when residual income and the idea of having money work for you crossed his desk. He further pursued his enthusiasm for business and finance during college, where he attended Northwestern State University. During those 4 years in Natchitoches, he achieved a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and was an active member and treasurer of Sigma Nu Fraternity. He continued his education by obtaining a Master’s in Business Administration degree from Louisiana Tech University. Prior to becoming part of the WFA team in January of 2015, Dany spent 8.5 years at Capital One Bank, where in a very short time he worked his way up from a teller to a Financial Advisor covering 10+ branches in the Shreveport, LA area.

Many people want guidance that truly supports their goals, yet the way advice is delivered can shape how confident they feel. How do you create space for every voice at the table? How do you build a client experience that reflects communication, care and long-term thinking? In this episode of Focused on the Future, host Suzanne Siracuse talks with Cary Carbonaro, CFP, MBA, author, fee-only financial advisor, and CFP Board ambassador, about her early industry realizations, her mission to elevate the experience for women clients, and her approach to building a practice with a clear purpose.  Cary explains how she built her firm from the ground up, why communication gaps still exist across the profession, and how empathy, education and emotional intelligence foster lasting relationships. She also discusses what advisors can do now to prepare for the great wealth transfer and better serve the clients who will soon lead it. Key points: How women were routinely left out of early client conversations and how this shaped Cary’s mission The importance of empathy, education and emotional intelligence with women clients Why the great wealth transfer demands changes in communication and client experience How Cary maintained trust through four practice transitions How media presence and clear messaging help advisors expand influence Resources: Listen to Focused on the Future on WealthManagement.com Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Spotify The Money Queen’s Guide: For Women Who Want to Build Wealth and Banish Fear by Cary Carbonaro Book: Women and Wealth: A Playbook to Empower Clients and Unlock Their Fortune by Cary Carbonaro Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Cary Carbonaro: LinkedIn: Cary Carbonaro Website: Cary Carbonaro LinkedIn: CFP Board  Website: CFP Board  About Our Guest: Cary Carbonaro, CFP, MBA, is an award-winning Certified Financial Planner Professional with over 25 years of experience in financial services. She is the Managing Wealth Advisor and Women and Wealth Ambassador at Ashton Thomas, where she leads a multimillion-dollar financial planning practice focused on empowering women. Cary is the bestselling author of The Money Queen’s Guide and Women and Wealth: A Playbook to Empower Clients and Unlock Their Fortune (Wiley 2025), which offers actionable strategies for better serving women in financial services. Through her writing, speaking, and advocacy, she is helping reshape the industry to better support its fastest-growing client segment. She has been honored as a CFP Board Ambassador for over a decade, named a “Women to Watch” by Investment News, and ranked six times among Investopedia’s Top 100 Financial Advisors. In 2024, Cary was appointed as the first female member of the NASDAQ Advisor Council, further cementing her leadership in the field. Before building her advisory practice, Cary held leadership roles at JP Morgan Chase, Citibank, and Lord Abbett Investment. Today, she is a respected industry voice and frequent media contributor, with appearances on dozens of TV stations.  Through her decades of experience, Cary remains a passionate champion for financial literacy, gender equity, and empowering women to take control of their financial futures.

Building a firm that reflects your values does not happen by accident. In this episode of Focused on the Future, host  Suzanne Siracuse talks with Julia Carlson, founder and CEO of Financial Freedom Wealth Management Group, about creating an inclusive culture, serving clients without traditional minimums and using technology to strengthen relationships. Julia also shares insights from her new book, Let’s Get You Fired, which helps entrepreneurs step back so their companies can grow. Julia also describes how she built Financial Freedom from the ground up, why she hires from her client base, how the Inspired Wealth program supports emerging investors, and how AI is reshaping client service and advisor training. Key takeaways: How Julia went from a 19-year-old bank teller to launching Financial Freedom Wealth Management at age 23 The way her own “misfit” experience sparked an inclusive, values-driven culture that hires from unexpected places How the Inspired Wealth program lets the firm serve people below traditional asset minimums while staying profitable through revenue-based design and focused coaching Why her upcoming book Let’s Get You Fired helps entrepreneurs step back, build strong teams, and grow values-based and valuable companies with a strong lens on generosity How JUMP AI, Salesforce and Microsoft Copilot are reshaping notetaking, prep, training and client experience while freeing advisors to focus on real conversations Resources: Listen to Focused on the Future on WealthManagement.com Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Spotify Listen to Julia on The Healthy Advisor Podcast with Diana Britton Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Julia Carlson: Website: Financial Freedom Wealth Management Group LinkedIn: Financial Freedom Wealth Management Group Website: Julia Carlson LinkedIn: Julia Carlson Books by Julia Carlson  About Our Guest: Julia Carlson is the Founder and CEO of Financial Freedom Wealth Management Group, LLC. She founded the firm at the turn of the century, and with its successes, she has become a thought leader in the financial industry. Julia is an entrepreneur, speaker, author, educator and expert on the investment landscape. She is recognized as being especially knowledgeable on topics relating to tax strategies for retirement and distribution planning, as well as exit planning for business owners. Julia has been identified as an InvestmentNews 2020 Women to Watch honoree. She was also recognized as one of Forbes’ 2018-2022 Top Women Wealth Advisors as well as a 2018-2021 Top Wealth Advisor Mom by Working Mother magazine and SHOOK Research. Furthermore, Julia provides her knowledge through a financial column in a local newspaper. She actively participates in her community as a Rotary member, Chamber of Commerce member and Vice President for the Pacific Communities Health District Foundation Board. Julia works from our office in the beautiful coastal community of Newport, Oregon, where she resides with her husband and their three children. Julia has been interviewed by Barron’s, Forbes, Financial Advisor Magazine, CIO Views, MSN, Reuters, InvestmentNews, USA Today, yahoo! Finance, TD Ameritrade Network and Nasdaq. Julia is an Investment Advisor Representative and Registered Principal with LPL Financial. She has her Series 24, 7, 63 and 66 Securities registrations held with LPL Financial, as well as her state Life and Health Insurance licenses.

Partnership in life and business takes communication, balance and understanding, and when money enters the mix, the stakes are even higher. In this episode of the Focused on The Future podcast, host Suzanne Siracuse talks with Douglas and Heather Boneparth, the husband-and-wife team behind Bone Fide Wealth, about how their personal and professional lives intersect, the inspiration behind their new book Money Together, and the lessons they’ve learned about partnership and purpose. Douglas and Heather share how real-life challenges shaped their firm’s people-first mission, why emotional awareness matters as much as financial planning, and how open communication can strengthen both relationships and client connections. Key takeaways: How Doug’s second-generation financial background shaped Bone Fide Wealth’s people-first philosophy Heather’s transition from corporate law to financial services and how her outsider perspective strengthens the firm How their experiences with debt, economic uncertainty and family life help them connect authentically with clients Insights from their new book Money Together on fairness, communication and partnership in financial relationships Practical advice for advisors on engaging both partners in client conversations and using digital platforms effectively Resources: Listen to Focused on the Future on WealthManagement.com Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Spotify Book: Money Together: How to Find Fairness in Your Relationship and Become an Unstoppable Financial Team Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Douglas & Heather Boneparth: Bone Fide Wealth Money Together LinkedIn: Bone Fide Wealth LinkedIn: Douglas Boneparth LinkedIn: Heather Boneparth About Douglas & Heather: Douglas Boneparth is the founder of Bone Fide Wealth, a wealth management firm in New York City. Recognized as one of the nation’s most influential financial advisors, Douglas serves on the advisory councils for CNBC and Investopedia. He has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Barron’s, and more. He is also a CFP Board Ambassador for New York. Douglas received his B.S. from the University of Florida and his M.B.A. from NYU’s Stern School of Business. When he’s not making jokes on the internet, he enjoys brewing coffee, though he can do both at the same time.  Heather Boneparth is used to wearing many hats. On her first maternity leave, she co-authored the couple’s first book on helping millennials achieve financial freedom. Since then, she has become a rising voice at the intersection of love, money, and family. She has written for CNBC, theSkimm, Insider, Scary Mommy, and more. As a lawyer, she spent more than a decade in the insurance industry before joining the family business as Bone Fide Wealth’s director of business and legal affairs. She received her B.S. from the University of Florida and her J.D. from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law.  Heather and Douglas met in college and consider themselves Gators for life. They now live in New Jersey with their two daughters.

What happens when a schoolteacher from Ireland follows her curiosity halfway across the world and ends up helping shape one of the nation’s largest wealth management firms? In this episode of the Focused on the Future podcast, host Suzanne Siracuse talks with Claire O’Keefe, partner and head of partner development at Cerity Partners, about her unconventional journey from education to wealth management and the people-first culture that drives firm growth. Claire shares insights on career transitions, cultural alignment in mergers and acquisitions, the importance of organic growth and how investing in people powers the future of wealth management. Claire discusses: How her travels from Ireland to the U.S. led to a career in wealth management The key trends shaping M&A decisions for RIAs, from succession planning to client experience Why cultural alignment and shared values determine successful partnerships How top-performing firms prioritize training, development, and broad ownership structures Her perspective on the future of small and solo firms in a rapidly evolving, AI-driven industry Resources: Listen to Focused on the Future on WealthManagement.com Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Spotify Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Claire O’Keefe: Website: Cerity Partners LinkedIn: Cerity Partners LinkedIn: Claire O’Keefe About Our Guest: Claire O’Keefe serves as Partner, Head of Partner Development, and member of the Leadership Team at Cerity Partners. She has a deep appreciation for the unique fabric of our firm which she regularly refers to as her “forever home”. Central to Claire’s philosophy is human connection. As Head of Partner Development, she is passionate about building relationships with both current and prospective partners and colleagues who are excited by the vision of our firm, share our cultural values, and are committed to serving the best interests of clients, colleagues, and the communities in which we operate. She believes that authenticity, empathy, active listening, high emotional intelligence, and genuine curiosity, form the bedrock of effective communication and trusted relationships. In her words, “The magic of our partnership is our people.” Cerity Partners is more than just a firm; it’s a community. A community where everyone’s voice counts, where an entrepreneurial spirit thrives, and where decisions prioritize our clients, free from external pressures. Prior to joining Cerity Partners, Claire served as Chief Operating Officer and client advisor for two wealth management firms. In these roles, Claire’s responsibilities included strategic planning, client and colleague development, and client advisory for affluent individuals, business owners, executives, and nonprofit organizations.

In this episode of Focused on The Future, host Suzanne Siracuse speaks with Pammi Bhullar, senior director of corporate citizenship at Edelman Financial Engines, about how the firm integrates purpose into its culture and client impact. Pammi shares her career journey across multiple sectors and why she chose Edelman to align her passion for helping others with financial planning. She explains how corporate citizenship at Edelman combines inclusion, philanthropy, and environmental responsibility, supported by data-driven insights and community engagement. The “We Aspire” program, which develops the next generation of financial planners, is also highlighted, as is the grassroots “Dollar Cents” financial literacy initiative, which now serves youth, parents, and veterans. Pammi also discusses how storytelling and vulnerability around mental health create stronger workplace communities and lasting change. Resources: Listen to Focused on the Future on WealthManagement.com Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Spotify Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse [email protected] Connect With Pammi Bhullar: Edelman Financial Engines LinkedIn: Edelman Financial Engines LinkedIn: Pammi Bhullar  About Our Guest: Pammi Bhullar leads Corporate Citizenship at Edelman Financial Engines, inclusive of an award-winning Diversity, Equity & Inclusion strategy, charitable giving, and volunteerism. Throughout Pammi’s career, she has focused on elevating the voices around her, embedding authenticity and care into corporate cultures, and building community and bridges among people from different backgrounds. Previously at Thermo Fisher Scientific, Pammi partnered with businesses globally on advancing DE&I best practices and managed and led the growth of early talent leadership development programs. Her experience spans the nonprofit space as well. After obtaining her MBA at Boston University, Pammi led the global nonprofit consulting program called ChangeTheWorld at the University of Maryland. In her free time, Pammi enjoys going on adventures with her husband and kids, including train excursions, museums, and building obstacle courses. Pammi gets her energy from new experiences, travel, fresh air, and dancing with all her heart.

In this episode of Focused on The Future, host Suzanne Siracuse speaks with Michael Brady, founder and president of Generosity Wealth Management, about how he built a firm dedicated to aligning wealth with purpose and possibility. Michael shares how his early mentors shaped his people-first approach to advising, and the client story that inspired him to create a values-driven practice centered on generosity. He also opens up about his personal adoption journey, explaining how it influenced his decision to serve families navigating adoption and foster care planning. The conversation expands to Michael’s humanitarian work in Ukraine, where he helps support orphans through camps and trauma care, demonstrating the ripple effect of financial advice. He also discusses how AI tools enhance efficiency in his practice while allowing him to stay fully present with clients. Resources: Listen to Focused on the Future on WealthManagement.com Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Spotify Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Michael Brady: Website: Generosity Wealth Management LinkedIn: Generosity Wealth Management LinkedIn: Michael Brady  About Our Guest: Michael Brady is the founder of Generosity Wealth Management, where he blends decades of financial expertise with a people-first approach to help clients live meaningful, abundant lives. With over 30 years in the finance industry, Michael has earned a reputation for delivering clear, actionable strategies that simplify complex financial decisions and provide lasting peace of mind. Michael partners with individuals and families to create tailored, tax-efficient investment plans that not only secure their financial futures but also reflect their unique values and aspirations. His mission is rooted in empowering clients to focus on what matters most while he manages the financial details. Drawing on a robust leadership background, including roles in brokerage services and hedge fund management, Michael brings a wealth of knowledge to every client relationship. At Generosity Wealth Management, he is dedicated to creating a culture of trust, empowerment, and integrity that extends beyond financial success to making a positive impact in the community. With a focus on excellence and joyful service, Michael helps clients align their wealth with their purpose, turning financial clarity into a tool for living fully and giving generously.

When your career path zigzags from Wall Street to pastry kitchens and back to finance, you pick up lessons most playbooks miss. In this episode of the Focused on the Future podcast, host Suzanne Siracuse talks with Bridget Venus Grimes, CFP, founder and president of WealthChoice and co‑founder of Equita Financial Network, about centering a firm on breadwinner women, elevating Gen Z through a Rising Professionals program and crafting succession plans that reflect a founder’s values. Bridget shares how personal experience shaped her niche and why community and retention remain pivotal for women advisors. Key Points: Her unconventional journey from trader to pastry chef to planner, and how life events led her to serve breadwinner women Building a niche around women attorneys, then expanding to women in tech, executives, and business owners, who are often the primary earners at home Launching WealthChoice to align work with impact after pay disparity and advancement barriers at a prior firm The Rising Professionals program that meets Gen Z where they are, with fee‑for‑service guidance on 401(k)s, budgeting and first goals Equita’s curated succession planning approach to each founder’s vision, values and client continuity Resources: Listen to Focused on the Future on WealthManagement.com Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Spotify Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Bridget Venus Grimes: LinkedIn: Bridget Venus Grimes Website: Equita Financial Network LinkedIn: Equita Financial Network Website: WealthChoice LLC LinkedIn: WealthChoice LLC About Our Guest: Bridget Venus Grimes, CFP is President of WealthChoice, a wealth management firm for women executives, and Co-founder of the SEC registered investment advisor Equita Financial Network, a community of women-led financial planning firms. Bridget began her career in 1987, trading stocks for private hedge funds in New York City, before pursuing her passion of financial planning for women. Bridget believes in empowering women to take confident steps toward a better life. She authored the best-selling book Corner Office Choices: The Executive Woman’s Guide to Financial Freedom and has written countless articles for major US media channels. Her commitment to women’s financial education extends not only to women professionals but also to fellow financial planners. She has spoken at major industry conferences and co-hosted the Financial Planning Association’s Women’s Knowledge Circle. Bridget splits her time between Arizona and California and enjoys boating, golf, entertaining, anything French, and, most of all, cooking. She holds a B.A degree in German language and literature and a minor in Art History from Mount Holyoke College.

In this episode of Focused on the Future, host Suzanne Siracuse speaks with Liz Miller, founder and president of Summit Place Financial Advisors and current chair of the CFP Board, about how she’s built a purpose-driven firm that prioritizes clarity, culture, and continuous evolution. Liz shares her journey from institutional portfolio management to launching a boutique firm focused on multigenerational families, and why personal connection became central to her definition of impact. She also reveals how a marketing mindset and persona-based messaging help attract the right clients. From community service to professional development and the growing role of artificial intelligence, Liz emphasizes the importance of staying flexible and always evolving to meet client and team needs in a changing profession. Resources: Listen to Focused on the Future on WealthManagement.com Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Spotify Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Liz Miller: Website: Summit Place Financial Advisors LinkedIn: Summit Place Financial Advisors LinkedIn: Liz Miller Email: [email protected]   About Our Guest: Liz Miller, CFP® CFA®, is the founder and President of Summit Place Financial Advisors, LLC, an independent SEC-registered advisor, offering personalized investment management and financial consulting to elite families and individuals. Previously, Liz was a principal owner of the investment manager, Trevor Stewart Burton & Jacobsen Inc., in NYC. In addition to managing portfolios and client relationships, she led the firm’s equity research activities and stock selection of the investment committee. Liz started her career as a mergers & acquisitions analyst for The First Boston Corporation. She went on to become a portfolio manager for Oppenheimer Mutual Funds. In 2008, she founded Summit Place Financial Advisors, LLC to focus on the complex financial needs of today’s multi-generational families. Liz has been a leader in the development of wealth management. She led the first Private Wealth Management committee at the CFA Society of NY, where she was honored with a Volunteer of the Year award, and later served on the Board of Directors. Liz also served on the Wealth Management task force for CFA Institute, contributing to the initial curriculum on wealth management for CFA candidates. Liz is the author of “Clutter-Free Wealth: A Goal-oriented Guide to Gaining Control of your Affluence” and is a member of the editorial advisory board for Trusts and Estates Magazine. Liz received a B.S in economics from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and an M.A. from Columbia University. Liz is the proud mother of grown twin daughters, and she and her husband reside in New York City.

In this episode of Focused on the Future, host Suzanne Siracuse speaks with Lee Korn, co-founder of Opal Wealth Advisors, about how his firm is growing by focusing on people, purpose and process. Lee explains how Opal begins every client relationship by uncovering meaningful life goals, not just financial ones, using a discovery process rooted in George Kinder’s life planning framework. While AI tools enhance advisors’ ability to deliver services like tax and estate planning more efficiently, Lee emphasizes that real client transformation comes from human insight, accountability and connection. The conversation turns to talent development, where Lee shares how Opal’s training program focuses on technical expertise, communication skills and personal development. Weekly “Opal Insights” sessions, communication workshops and outside trainings help younger advisors grow into confident, effective professionals. Key insights include: How AI tools helped solve a complex client matter faster than seasoned accountants and attorneys Why Lee believes advisors won’t be replaced by tech but enhanced into “bionic advisors” Opal’s culture of Ikigai, helping team members align personal purpose with professional roles Opal’s unique training approach, blending technical knowledge, communication skills and life planning The firm’s Opal Insights sessions and how constant learning fuels team cohesion and client relationships Resources: Listen to Focused on the Future on WealthManagement.com Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Spotify Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Lee Korn: Website: Opal Wealth Advisors LinkedIn: Opal Wealth Advisors LinkedIn: Lee Korn Email: [email protected]   About Our Guest: Lee Korn is committed to seeing clients succeed. He loves to brainstorm ideas to arrive at the best solutions—and he stands side-by-side with clients to help make sure those solutions are effectively implemented. In particular, Lee enjoys assisting business owners in identifying opportunities and strategies to take their companies to the next level. With a forward-thinking outlook, he also helps Opal remain at the forefront of the financial planning industry. Before forming Opal Wealth Advisors with partners Jesse Giordano and Joe Filosa, Lee co-founded the 360 Group at Morgan Stanley, where he was a financial advisor and family wealth director. In 2009, Barron’s named him as one of the top 1200 U.S. Financial Advisors. Previously, he worked at Edward Jones as a personal wealth manager. He began his career as a commercial banker, helping successful business owners raise capital for acquisition and expansion. Lee graduated from Queens College in New York City with a degree in accounting. Active in his community, he has volunteered extensively with special needs organizations. Lee has a wife and three children. He upholds a strong commitment to helping young people develop good values as well as leadership and life skills. He is a Cub Scout Cubmaster and an active board member at his temple.

In the latest Focus on the Future podcast episode, industry veteran Suzanne Siracuse chats with Tom Orecchio, CEO of Modera Wealth Management, about the evolving dynamics and secrets to building a successful financial advisory firm. Tom brings in his wealth of experience, sharing stories from his inspiring journey into financial planning and revealing why he continues to foster long-term client relationships. They discuss the vital role that technology is playing in the advisor/client relationship, strategies for organic growth, and the magic behind nurturing client relationships beyond investments. Key points: The significance of personal connection in client relationships and the integration of digital advisory tools  Modera’s tactical approach to client acquisition, incorporating traditional referrals, digital marketing, and centers of influence The role of technology in enhancing estate planning and the essentials of client preparation How Modera differentiates itself through fee-only fiduciary services and ownership plans for team members  The industry’s future disruptions and how AI provides opportunities for more personal advisory roles  Resources: Listen to Focused on the Future on WealthManagement.com Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Spotify The Net Positive Consortium in Wealth Management  Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Tom Orecchio: Modera Wealth Management LinkedIn: Modera Wealth Management LinkedIn: Tom Orecchio Email: [email protected]  About Our Tom Orecchio: With over 25 years of experience in wealth management, Tom has always believed that the best way to serve clients and provide objective advice is through the independent, fee-only approach. During that time, he has had the privilege of serving individuals, families, nonprofit organizations, foundations, trusts, and others in all areas of their investment and wealth management needs.

In this all-new episode of Focused on the Future, Suzanne Siracuse speaks with Kevin Keller, CEO of the CFP Board, about the evolving landscape of financial advice and the growing importance of holistic financial planning. Kevin highlights the industry’s shift from a focus on investment management to comprehensive financial advice, a change embraced by firms large and small, benefiting both advisors and consumers navigating increasingly complex financial lives.  Their conversation also delves into the persistent challenges of improving diversity and increasing female representation within the financial planning profession. Kevin highlights the CFP Board’s efforts to address these issues through initiatives like the Women’s Initiative, which aims to attract, develop, and retain more women in the field. He also points to the organization’s record-setting growth in the number of newly certified women CFP professionals, as well as strategic partnerships that are designed to engage and support a more diverse pipeline of future advisors.  Valuable highlights include: The significant shift from investment-focused advisory to holistic financial planning. The ongoing drive to increase diversity in the financial planning profession, especially the recruitment of women advisors.  How advisors can better serve the next generation by tailoring services, emphasizing values-based investing, and creating inclusive spaces for underrepresented communities.  The exciting implications of artificial intelligence on the financial services industry, balancing efficiency with human interaction.  Resources: Listen to Focused on the Future on WealthManagement.com Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Spotify Connections Conference (CNX 2025)  Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Kevin Keller: CFP Board LinkedIn: CFP Board LinkedIn: Kevin Keller Email: [email protected]  About Our Guest: Kevin R. Keller, CAE, is a leading voice in the financial advice ecosystem and CEO of CFP Board, the credentialing organization for more than 104,000 CFP® professionals in the United States. During his 18 years as CEO, the number of CFP® professionals in the U.S. has nearly doubled. And the 2024 class of certificants was the most diverse in CFP Board’s history, with all-time-high numbers of women and racially and ethnically diverse new CFP® professionals.

In this episode of Focused on the Future, host Suzanne Siracuse kicks off Season 3 with a powerful conversation with Katrina Radenberg, chief investment officer of Mariner and president of the Mariner Foundation. Katrina shares her unique path from investment analyst to C-suite leader, the importance of mentorship and how intentional partnerships and niche marketing are fueling Mariner’s organic growth. The discussion highlights how the Mariner Foundation—fueled by associate donations and company matches—has become a cultural cornerstone, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to community impact and attracting next-generation talent. Katrina also shares insights on emerging investment trends, the importance of customized client solutions at scale and why giving back and talent development are non-negotiables for building a sustainable, impactful wealth management firm. This episode is a must-listen for financial advisors looking to blend business growth with a broader mission—and stay competitive in an evolving industry. Key takeaways include: Katrina’s unique journey from math-loving college graduate to industry leader in wealth management  Proven strategies for organic growth within Mariner, including niche marketing and digital transformation  The Mariner Foundation’s impactful role in community support and employee engagement Innovative approaches to attract and retain next-generation talent in the financial industry  Current trends in investment management focus on customization and client problem-solving  Resources: Unlocking Our True Potential (Executive Brief) Net Positive Wealth Mariner Foundation: 2024 Impact Report Listen to Focused on the Future on WealthManagement.com Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Spotify Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Katrina Radenberg: Mariner Wealth Advisors LinkedIn: Mariner LinkedIn: Katrina Radenberg  About Our Guest: As Chief Investment Officer, Katrina oversees all aspects of investments across the firm. Her responsibilities include leading our investment committee and private investment committee. She is also a member of our risk committee. Since joining the firm in 2007, Katrina has had a wide range of responsibilities throughout the organization, including serving on the investment and asset allocation committees and managing fixed income portfolios for high-net-worth clients. Before moving into a leadership role, she co-managed a tactical ETF portfolio. Katrina has 21 years of experience in the investment industry. Prior to joining Mariner, she was an analyst for a hedge fund in Manhattan, Kan. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in finance from Kansas State University.

In this episode, veteran industry leader Suzanne Siracuse hosts the dynamic duo of Shannon Spotswood, CEO, and Abby Salameh, chief growth officer, from RFG Advisory. Listen as they wrap up Season 2 with an insightful discussion on what it takes to build the RIA of the future. From effective strategies for driving organic growth to fostering a thriving firm culture and community, this is a must-listen episode. They discuss: Key strategies for advisors to thrive in a rapidly changing industry The pivotal role of technology in enhancing advisor efficiency RFG’s StrongHer Money initiative and how it aims to empower female clients in financial decision-making The importance of professionalizing and operationalizing your business to be successful in the future.  Why ensuring everyone on your team is in the right role is critical to growth Resources: StrongHer Money  Connect with Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect with Shannon Spotswood: LinkedIn: Shannon Spotswood RFG Advisory LinkedIn: RFG Advisory Connect with Abby Salameh: LinkedIn: Abby Salameh LinkedIn: RFG Advisory RFG Advisory About Our Guests: Shannon Spotswood is a 25+ year industry veteran in financial services with an outstanding reputation built on leadership roles in professional management, investment banking, hedge fund management, and business development.  Joining RFG Advisory in 2015, Shannon recognized the opportunity to combine her entrepreneurial experience with her passion to build an innovative, Advisor-focused RIA of the future. At RFG Advisory, Shannon of RFG 2.0, a fully integrated platform for independent Financial Advisors and the implementation of strategic initiatives contributing to advisor success Abby Salameh serves as RFG Advisory’s Chief Growth Officer, where she heads the firm’s growth activities spanning marketing, recruiting, onboarding, and transitions. With over 25 years spearheading growth support and services for independent advisors, Ms. Salameh has demonstrated excellence across multiple disciplines. Most recently, she served in multiple C-suite roles at CAIS, including chief marketing officer, managing director of CAIS IQ, and head of strategic partnerships. Prior to that, Ms. Salameh held a variety of leadership positions at multiple billion-dollar-plus RIA firms like Hightower Advisors, Private Advisor Network, and Fusion Advisor Network (now Kestra). She received the 2023 WealthManagement.com Industry Award for CMO of the year, and in 2022 won a Wealthie for Thought Leader of the Year. Ms. Salameh serves on the Board of Invest in Others, a non-profit organization that celebrates the charitable work of financial advisors, has led the FSI Growth & Marketing Council, is a vetted industry speaker and a regular volunteer at her local animal shelter. She holds an MBA from the NYU Stern School of Business and a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Hofstra University.

What does it take to build a future-proof financial advisory business?  Veteran industry leader Suzanne Siracuse sits down with Jon Jones, CEO and co-founder of Brighton Jones, to explore his incredible journey from small-town beginnings to leading a $30 billion RIA.  In this episode of the Focused on the Future podcast, Jon reveals how a client-centric, holistic approach has propelled his firm to the forefront of the wealth management industry. Jon dives into: The “Personal CFO” model that seamlessly integrates life goals with financial planning Redefining wealth management to thrive through industry changes Using strategic giving to enrich client relationships and advisor satisfaction His vision for corporate responsibility through the Net Positive Consortium Organic growth strategies that balance culture with accountability for long-term success  Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Jon Jones: Brighton Jones LinkedIn: Brighton Jones LinkedIn: Jon Jones Net Positive Consortium About Our Guest: Jon Jones, co-founder of Brighton Jones, helped pioneer the Personal CFO approach to wealth management alongside Charles. While many firms focused solely on managing clients’ investment accounts, Brighton Jones took a holistic approach by overseeing clients’ entire balance sheets. Financial well-being and acting as a Personal CFO remain at the core of the firm’s services. However, Jon believes that truly helping clients live richer lives requires going beyond traditional financial management. Standing at the intersection of life and wealth, Jon and his team recognize the importance of influencing clients’ emotional and social well-being. They celebrate life’s joys—marriages, new homes, births, and retirements—and provide guidance during challenges like job loss, divorce, illness, or loss. Jon values the opportunity to encourage clients to embrace the bigger picture, focus on their whole selves, and understand that true happiness extends far beyond financial success.

Join host Suzanne Siracuse as she sits down with Lisa Crafford, Managing Director at Constellation Wealth Capital, to explore key strategies for building successful, future-ready wealth management firms. Drawing on her deep experience working with financial advisors, Lisa offers valuable insights into the power of mentorship, strategic growth approaches, and fostering a strong community. She also sheds light on the pivotal role of technology in positioning firms for sustained growth and resilience in an evolving industry. Gain insight and practical tips to advance your firm as this episode highlights: Lisa’s three main pillars for firm growth – strategic planning, investment in people,  and leveraging technology Ways advisors can connect with clients and niche segments to build relationships The benefits of technology and the challenges faced due to regulatory restrictions How to build financial literacy with younger generations Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Lisa Crafford: Constellation Wealth Capital LinkedIn: Constellation Wealth Capital LinkedIn: Lisa Crafford  About Our Guest: Lisa serves as the Head of Advisory at Constellation Wealth Capital. Her previous role as Director and Head of Business Consulting at BNY Mellon | Pershing was focused on working with wealth management and advisory firms to help them grow and strengthen their businesses. In addition to her consulting work, Lisa founded the INSITE University Student Experience, The Next Leadership Forum, and led the Pershing research efforts with industry media partners. Earlier in her career, Lisa was the Director of Business Management for an RIA in the DC Metro area.  

In the latest episode of Focused on the Future, Suzanne Siracuse sits down with Bryce Skaff of Dimensional Fund Advisors to explore his unique journey from aspiring marine biologist to a career in wealth management. Bryce offers an inside look at DFA’s investment philosophy, deeply rooted in academic research, and how the firm’s growth aligns with the rise of independent advisors. Drawing from DFA’s extensive investor studies and advisor benchmarking research, Bryce shares his perspective on the evolving needs of today’s clients and the strategies advisors must embrace to thrive in a changing landscape. He delves into what separates top-performing firms from the rest, emphasizing keys to growth, scaling effectively, and meeting the demands of the future. Bryce and Suzanne also debate the future of smaller advisory firms, discussing whether solo advisors can still compete with larger firms expanding through mergers and acquisitions—or if the solo model is truly becoming a thing of the past. This is a can’t miss episode.  Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Bryce Skaff: Dimensional Fund Advisors LinkedIn: Dimensional Fund Advisors LinkedIn: Bryce Skaff  About Our Guest: Bryce Skaff is Co-Head of the Global Client Group (GCG) and serves in a leadership role on several of the firm’s key strategic committees. He helps to shape the vision and oversee the management of the GCG, a global team of professionals committed to delivering an outstanding experience to advisors, intermediaries, and institutional investors around the world.

Suzanne Siracuse engages in a conversation with George Nichols, CEO of the American College of Financial Services, to uncover strategies for success in financial advising. Nichols shares insights into significant areas for financial advisors, such as specialization, the future of retirement planning, and the importance of representation.   Nichols explored how understanding the diverse needs of various communities is crucial for advisors to succeed in the future. He emphasized that financial advisors must adapt to the evolving landscape by focusing on expertise and representation. Key focus points from their conversation include: The significance of specialization in financial planning for heightened success Insights into the future of retirement planning and its evolving demographics The role of inclusivity and representation in driving firm growth Strategies for addressing the upcoming retirement cliff within the industry Resource:  The Center for Special Needs | The American College of Financial Services  Connect With Suzanne Siracuse:  LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With George Nichols: The American College LinkedIn: The American College LinkedIn: George Nichols  About Our Guest: George Nichols III, CAP®, currently serves as the 10th president and CEO in the storied history of The American College of Financial Services. Nichols joined The College after a 17-year stint at New York Life, where he held principal roles in sales, P&L, strategic initiatives, and public policy. In 2007, Nichols was named to the company’s executive management committee. He also served as executive vice president in the Office of Governmental Affairs.

Suzanne Siracuse interviews Vanessa Martinez, CEO and managing partner of Expressive Wealth, to explore how holistic financial planning and inclusive communication can transform the client experience. Vanessa shares her journey, rooted in the values instilled by her parents, who overcame educational limitations in war-torn Central America. This background shaped her commitment to empowering clients through education and comprehensive wealth management. Vanessa also discusses the need for financial advisors to shift their strategies in the face of longer lifespans, emphasizing longevity risk as a critical factor in planning. She highlights the importance of understanding diverse and blended family dynamics, going beyond assumptions, and focusing on meaningful communication with clients. Highlights from this episode include: The role of psychology in financial planning Why wealth management is not just about numbers, but about understanding clients’ behaviors, motivations, and family structures Her fresh perspective on how advisors can build more impactful and sustainable practices by embracing diversity How advisors can better serve clients of the future by adapting to evolving trends and truly listening to their client’s unique needs   Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Vanessa Martinez: Expressive Wealth LinkedIn: Expressive Wealth LinkedIn: Vanessa Martinez   About Our Guest: With 15+ years of wealth management expertise, Vanessa is dedicated to aligning your financial goals with holistic well-being. Vanessa traveled abroad for her undergrad and earned her BBA in Guatemala, C.A. Returning to Chicago; she received her MBA in finance at North Park University while gaining insights from her time at JPMorgan Chase. Her commitment to comprehensive client wealth advisory led her to earn FINRA Series 6, 7, 63, and 65 certifications.

Are you ready to learn the keys to building a profitable, sustainable, and impactful business in the ever-evolving financial landscape?  Join us for an insightful conversation with Brian Hamburger, the visionary founder, president, and CEO of MarketCounsel Consulting, and founder and chief counsel of the Hamburger Law Firm. In this episode, Brian sits down with host Suzanne Siracuse to share his journey through the wealth management industry, exploring the challenges advisors face today. Together, they dive into the critical role of objective advice and strategic planning in successfully navigating these complexities. Brian and Suzanne discuss: How his father’s career in wealth management shaped his journey in the industry Common frustrations and challenges faced by Independent Wealth Managers The critical role of objective advice in helping advisors navigate their careers The value of planning, discipline, and seeking external, unbiased guidance  Avoiding the most common pitfalls that advisors and firms face in transition  Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Brian Hamburger: Hamburger Law Firm MarketCounsel LinkedIn: Brian Hamburger LinkedIn: Hamburger Law LinkedIn: MarketCounsel  About Our Guest: Brian is an entrepreneur, attorney, columnist, and outspoken industry advocate for independent investment advisers.  For the past 19 years, he has served at the helm of the MarketCounsel companies and the Hamburger Law Firm. Brian was named an Innovator in InvestmentNews’ 2020 class of Icons & Innovators and included in “The IA25: Investment Advisor Magazine’s Annual List of the Top Influential People in the Industry” in 2020.  In 2015, Wealth Management named Brian as one of the top thought leaders in wealth management saying, “Over the past decade, Hamburger has been the architect behind almost all of the highest-profile breakaway deals in the industry, helping advisors navigate the legal thicket of transitioning away from brokerages and into independent business models. 

On the latest episode of Focused on the Future, host Suzanne Siracuse sits down with Sibyl Slade, founder and president of IntegriVest Wealth Advisors. Sibyl shares her journey from working at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta to establishing her own independent financial planning firm. Their conversation delves into the evolution of her career, the what she learned after starting her own firm, and her innovative approach to structuring her fees in order to meet clients where they are.  Highlights from today’s episode include: An overview of Sibyl’s time at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta and how she focused on ensuring underserved communities had access to financial products and services How her desire to aid families burdened by student loan debt drove her to establish her own independent firm, IntegriVest Wealth Advisors Her fee structure that adds flexibility in order to serve all interested parties The importance of non-judgmental and unbiased client interactions Effective client event strategies that drive organic growth How her Small Business Mastermind group has impacted her overall practice Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Sibyl Slade:  IntegriVest Wealth Advisors LinkedIn: IntegriVest Wealth Advisors LinkedIn: Sibyl Slade Email: [email protected]   About Our Guest: Slade is the founder and president of IntegriVest Wealth Advisors, LLC. an independent financial services firm. She lends her 28 years of banking and finance experience to provide personalized comprehensive financial planning and advisory services to small business owners and professionals. In 2022, she was recognized as a Visionary for Advisor Group’s Women Forum. In 2019, she was a nominee for the Ladenburg Institute of Women & Finance. Before founding IntegriVest Wealth Advisors, LLC, Slade began her financial services career as a financial advisor with Waddell & Reed, where she was recognized as a recipient of Waddell & Reed’s 2015 Pacesetter as well as received her Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor Designation. In 2017, Slade became an independent financial advisor and became an industry thought leader. A 21-year veteran of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, in this capacity, Slade served as a senior regional community development manager for the Atlanta Fed’s community and economic development (CED) team whereby she provided regional and national input around these areas.

Join us on this episode of Focused on the Future as host Suzanne Siracuse sits down with Beth Bosworth, wealth advisor and head of planning at Perigon Wealth Management. Beth highlights her effective strategies for attracting and retaining next-gen clients, how being a member of the LGBTQ community influenced her planning services with clients, how she participates as a team member and leader, and her recommendations for evaluating which tech tools work best for your firm. Key discussion points include: Her unique journey from a banker on Music Row in Nashville to a leading financial planner  Why her mantra is “living life alongside her clients”  The importance of leaning into the personal  Why using inclusive language matters Why advisors should throw traditional minimums “out the window” to attract next-gen clients How offering financial education for clients’ children leads to engagement and retention How tech assists with efficiency, but human’s own personalization.   This episode is a must-listen for financial professionals looking to modernize their practices, deepen client relationships, attract new clients, and embrace inclusivity as a core component of their firm. Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Beth Bosworth: Perigon Wealth LinkedIn: Beth Bosworth LinkedIn: Perigon Wealth Management, LLC About Our Guest: Beth Bosworth is a Wealth Advisor with Perigon Wealth Management and oversees the firm’s financial planning operations alongside the Planning Team. Her passion is to help clients manage the risks associated with accumulating and preserving wealth. Her favorite part about her career is that she has the privilege of living life alongside her clients. She is an avid advocate of the independent wealth management space, and values protecting her fee-only practice. Beth is a CFP® professional and holds a BA from the University of Georgia. She helps manage the Atlanta office and resides in Asheville, NC with her wife and two sons. She is an avid tennis player, enjoys golf, and spends the weekends hiking with her family and dog in the Mountains. Beth is also passionate about dedicating her time to worthy causes and has served the USTA (United States Tennis Association) for over 15 years.

Join us on this episode of Focused on the Future as host Suzanne Siracuse sits down with Liz Nesvold, Chair of Emigrant Partners. Liz highlights the three critical areas that firms need to focus on to ensure future success, discusses the key levers that contribute to obtaining a high firm valuation, and the profound impact her mother had on her leadership style.   Key discussion points include: The subconscious influences that shaped her career path The story behind her current role at Emigrant Partners  The importance of nurturing and retaining top talent How next gen talent plays into your firm’s valuation Why reinvestment into your business is key for future growth Her advice for buyers and sellers’ post-deal.  The essential question every firm must consider before deciding to buy or sell Why business evolution cannot exist without business continuity and succession planning  Join Suzanne and Liz for an insightful episode filled with career reflections, industry expertise, and practical advice that can help elevate your firm’s success. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just starting your journey in wealth management, this episode offers valuable perspectives on leadership, growth, and strategic decision-making. Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect with Liz Nesvold: Emigrant Partners LinkedIn: Liz Nesvold LinkedIn: Emigrant Partners About Our Guest: Liz serves as Chair of Emigrant Partners and Vice Chair of Emigrant Bank. In her dual roles, Liz works closely with all units of the bank that provide solutions to the wealth management industry, including Emigrant Partners, New York Private Trust, Sarasota Private Trust, Cleveland Private Trust, Summitas and Personal Risk Management Solutions. Liz has 30 years of experience as a passionate advisor, investment banker, and executive. Over her career, she has specialized in mergers and acquisitions, capital planning and fundraising, succession and liquidity planning, strategic advisory, compensation structuring, deep-dive financial and businessanalysis, and organic growth consulting. Liz began her investment banking career providing M&A and strategic advisory services to asset managers and securities firms in 1991 at Berkshire Capital. She cofounded the industry’s first-ever specialist M&A practice serving wealth management firms in 1996. In 2007, Liz launched Silver Lane, a boutique investment bank that routinely ranked as the #1 or #2 most active M&A advisor to the industry. Liz and her partners sold Silver Lane to a Fortune 500 company in 2019, and she transitioned from investment banking four years later to joining the wealth management industry. A proud advocate and mentor for women in financial services, Liz was named 2024 Finance Executive of the Year on behalf of WSR Pathfinder Awards. She was honored with the prestigious M&A Advisor’s Leadership Award in 2021, and was inducted into the M&A Hall of Fame. In 2019, Liz was recognized as a Woman to Watch by InvestmentNews.

Join us on this installment of “Focused on the Future” as Suzanne Siracuse sits down with Stacy Francis, the Founder and CEO of Francis Financial, and the nonprofit, Savvy Ladies. Stacy shares the heartbreaking story of her grandmother’s life, and how it impacted her becoming a financial advisor working with women in transition such as divorce or widowhood. Stacy also discusses her firm’s growth strategy focused solely on organic growth and why every advisor should start a succession plan earlier than they think. Key discussion points include: The story of Stacy’s grandmother and its impact on her career Opportunities for advisors to get involved with Savvy Ladies through pro bono work Discovering her “superpower” through adversity The benefits of early succession planning The power of a niche practice focused on divorced women Her role as an expert witness in divorce cases Her firm’s thoughtful approach to nurturing COI’s Resources: Free Financial Help for Widows Resource Guide Free Divorce Financial Help for Women Resource Guide  Don’t miss this compelling episode filled with inspiration and practical insights from Stacy’s journey. Get inspired and informed on “Focused on the Future.” Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Stacy Francis: www.FrancisFinancial.com  https://linktr.ee/francisfinancial  LinkedIn: Francis Financial Inc  LinkedIn: Stacy Francis  Facebook: Stacy Francis Financial  Email: [email protected]  About Stacy Francis: Stacy is the President and CEO of Francis Financial, a fee-only boutique wealth management, financial planning, and divorce financial planning firm dedicated to providing ongoing comprehensive advice for successful individuals, couples, and women in transition such as divorce or widowhood. She is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® (CDFA®), and Certified Estate and Trust Specialist (CES) with over 20 years of experience in the financial industry. Stacy is also the founder of the non-profit, Savvy Ladies, host of the Financially Ever After podcast, and the author of the white paper, Unveiling the Unspoken Truth: The Financial Challenges Women Face During and After Divorce and Financial Help for Widows – A Complete Resource Guide.

In this episode of “Focused on the Future,” Suzanne Siracuse interviews Shannon Eusey, Founder and CEO of Beacon Pointe Advisors. Shannon opens up about her unique journey, starting from her childhood experiences as the only girl on all-boys sports teams, shares her top 5 trends in wealth management, and discusses why scale is crucial for future success.  Key discussion points include: How her childhood experiences in sports lead her to break down barriers in her career. The pivotal moment when an assignment, while getting her MBA,  became the catalyst for founding Beacon Pointe Advisors.  How being a woman in a predominantly male industry has shaped how she runs her business. Her firm’s proactive strategies for better-serving women investors. Beacon Pointe’s non-cookie-cutter approach to achieving organic growth. Why scale gives you access to the best tech and talent. How her firm is leveraging AI across various functions, from compliance to HR to marketing. Join Suzanne and Shannon and get ready to be inspired!   Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect with Shannon Eusey: www.BeaconPointe.com LinkedIn: @BeaconPointe Instagram: @BeaconPointeAdvisors Facebook(Meta): @BeaconPointeRIA Twitter(X): @BeaconPointeRIA Pinterest: @BeaconPointe YouTube: @BeaconPointeAdvisors  About Shannon Eusey: Shannon is the Chief Executive Officer of Beacon Pointe Advisors (“Beacon Pointe”), which she founded in 2002. Beacon Pointe is one of the largest Registered Investment Advisory (RIA) firms specializing in full-service financial planning and research-driven investments, partnering with institutions, retirement-sponsored plans, and private clients. Today, the firm has more than $30 billion in assets under advisement, with more than 55 offices and 500 employees nationwide.  Through Shannon’s passion for financial education, she is a founding member of the Beacon Pointe Women’s Advisory Institute (founded in 2011), and Beacon Pointe Advisors is proudly the largest female-led RIA in the nation. She also co-authored Your Dollars, Our Sense, an International Best Seller, having ranked #1 in six business and finance categories. Beyond her corporate achievements, Shannon actively serves or has served on numerous boards, including Banc of California, Viewpoint Ventures, Young Presidents Organization (YPO) Orange County Chapter, the Charles Schwab Advisor Council, the TD Ameritrade Advisory Council, CNBC Financial Advisory Council, as well as the UCI Athletic Fund Board, Sisters of St. Joseph in Orange, and the Trustee for the Friends of the Girl Scout Council of Orange County. Shannon and Beacon Pointe have collectively been recognized for many achievements, showcasing the success of Shannon’s career and the firm’s accomplishments. Some of these recent accolades include: Barron’s Top 100 RIA Firms Barron’s Top 100 Women Financial Advisors  Forbes America’s Top Women Wealth Advisors InvestmentNews Women to Watch of 2020 Worth Magazine’s 50 Women Changing the World Top Wealth Advisor Moms by Working Mother Magazine Financial Advisor Magazine Top RIAs Forbes 100 Fastest Growing RIAs Financial Times 401 Top Retirement Plan Advisers UC Irvine Lauds & Laurels Award Recipient  Prior to founding Beacon Pointe Advisors, Shannon played a pivotal role in Roxbury Capital’s Private Client Group, overseeing investment policy, asset allocation, and equity strategy. She also managed Roxbury’s Socially Responsible Investments Team and contributed to the firm’s strategic direction as a member of Roxbury’s Management Committee.  Shannon earned her MBA from UCLA’s Anderson School of Management and her undergraduate degree from UC Irvine, where she also played on the Women’s Volleyball Team. She resides with her husband in Newport Beach, California, where they raised their four children.

In this episode of “Focused on the Future,” Suzanne Siracuse interviews Dr. Vinay Nair, Founder of Tifin, about the current landscape of AI and its implications for the wealth management industry. They delve into various facets, including the opportunities and challenges AI presents, and the importance of adaptability for achieving success. Dr. Nair offers insights and advice for advisors and firm owners on leveraging AI to their advantage without feeling overwhelmed by rapid advancements. Key points from the discussion include: Dr. Nair’s Journey: Transitioning from an academic background to becoming a fintech founder Advice on Embracing AI: He emphasizes the necessity for advisors and firm owners to embrace AI technologies, highlighting that those who are open to reinvention and innovation are more likely to succeed. Productionizing AI: Dr. Nair discusses the process of implementing AI in practical, scalable applications within the financial industry. Open Source vs. Proprietary Models: A comparison of open source foundation models and proprietary models  Tifin’s Focus: The future directions and priorities for Tifin Surprising Takeaway: He shares a surprising key takeaway that underscores the importance of people. Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect with Dr. Vinay Nair: www.tifin.com LinkedIn: Vinay Nair LinkedIn: TIFIN About Our Guest: Dr. Vinay Nair is the Founder and CEO of TIFIN, a fintech platform that drives personalization for wealth using AI and investment intelligence. TIFIN operates a collection of fully-owned subsidiaries in wealth and investments that are shaping the future of investor experience. He was also the Founder and Chairman of 55ip, which was successfully sold to J.P. Morgan. Vinay serves on multiple boards including Chairman of full-service fund administrator platform Paralel Technologies and as part of the Board of Advisors for the Center for Leadership at the University of Colorado Boulder. A serial entrepreneur, investor, and academic, Vinay has taught at several business schools, has a portfolio of venture investments, and has started several companies in financial services. He started his career as a finance faculty member at The Wharton School. After launching and managing a quantitative hedge fund which led him to start 55ip, he started TIFIN to tap into the potential that science and technology have to deliver better investor experiences and outcomes. He continues to teach in the Wharton Executive Education Programs. As a former finance faculty member at Wharton, with teaching experience at schools such as MIT and Columbia, he focuses on venture capital, private equity, and entrepreneurship. He is also a recognized expert in the areas of sustainable and responsible investing and has written “Investing for Change”, a book published in 2008 by Oxford University Press. His academic background includes a Ph.D. in Financial Economics from the Stern School of Business at NYU with an award for the best thesis, and a Bachelor of Technology from the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras with the Governor’s Gold Medal, an award for all-round excellence.

In this episode of “Focused on the Future,” Suzanne Siracuse talks with Rita Robbins, Founder and President of Affiliated Advisors, on the evolving treatment of women in the financial industry, the importance of focusing on clients’ adult children to capture next-generation wealth and the crucial role of networking in succession planning. Specifically, Rita discusses: Her Journey: From starting as a sales assistant to becoming one of the first female wholesalers and eventually founding her own firm to serve advisors. Impact of Motherhood: How having her daughter inspired her to start her own firm. Industry Evolution: The changes in how women are treated in the financial industry. Next-Generation Wealth: How advisors can benefit by focusing on their clients’ adult children to capture the next generation of wealth. Charitable Giving: Why advisors should lean into charitable giving discussions with their clients AI Limitations: The key areas where AI cannot replace the human element. Succession Planning: The critical role of networking in planning for business succession. Connect With Suzanne Siracuse:  WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Rita Robbins: www.affiliatedadvisors.com LinkedIn: Affiliated Advisors LinkedIn: Rita Robbins About Rita Robbins: Rita Robbins combines more than 4 decades of industry experience with a proactive, personalized approach toward empowering her advisors. Since 1994, when she founded Affiliated Advisors, Rita’s passion is to support advisors grow dynamic, efficient businesses. Rita and her partners now leads over 100 advisors with more than $4.5 billion in assets under management. Rita has been with Osaic for 20 years. Her unique insights and experience into enhancing advisors’ practice growth and marketing have made her a sought after at  industry conferences.  Rita was honored by Investment News as a “Women to Watch” in 2019 for her distinguished leadership in advancing the business of providing advice with her passion, creativity, and willingness to help others. In 2020, Crain’s recognized Rita as a “Notable Women In Financial Services”. Last year she was honored with the Alexander Armstrong Lifetime Achievement award.  A long time NYC resident, Rita and her family enjoy taking advantage of all that that City has to offer. She is an avid New York City Ballet fan, and proudly serves as a Trustee of The Town Hall, a National Historic Landmark venue. Rita sits on several industry advisory board. She is a partner in the Lavender Hill Farm, one of the largest commercial lavender farms in the US.

In this episode of Focused on the Future, industry veteran Suzanne Siracuse sits down with Andrew Altfest, president of Altfest Personal Wealth Management and founder of FP Alpha, to explore the transformative power of AI in financial advising and how it’s reshaping the advisor’s value proposition. Specifically, Andrew discusses: His early exposure to the world of wealth management Why what has worked for advisors in the past more than likely won’t work for advisors in the future. Redefining your value proposition to answer client demands The catalyst that drove him to create wealth tech solution, FP Alpha How technology and AI are supporting holistic planning The lessons learned from his mother on the importance of EQ Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Andrew Altfest, CFP®: www.fpalpha.com www.altfest.com LinkedIn: Andrew Altfest, CFP® LinkedIn: FP Alpha About Our Guest: Andrew Altfest, CFP®, MBA is President and Principal Advisor at Altfest Personal Wealth Management, a $1.7B RIA based in New York City. There he advises clients about their personal finances and drives financial planning strategies across the firm. Andrew is also the founder and CEO of FP Alpha, the first AI-driven advanced planning solution that covers more than 16 areas of financial planning. The software enables financial advisors to save time in the planning process through automation, showcase their value beyond investments, and deliver a personalized, comprehensive experience that clients require. FP Alpha provides financial advisors the scale and depth of knowledge necessary to enhance their planning practices by providing key offerings such as tax, estate, and insurance to their entire client base, usually just reserved for top-tier clients. 

In this episode of Focused on the Future, Suzanne Siracuse talks with Brian Seymour, principal and founder of Prosperitage Wealth on why his unique social media videos are really resonating with clients, the lessons he learned since launching his own RIA and the significant impact his coaches have had on his career.  Specifically, Brian discusses: His journey into the industry and the factors that affected him in starting his own RIA The crucial role coaching played in shaping his career, helping him identify his unique strengths and develop his “super power.” Why investing in continuing education programs and accreditations has been vital to his growth as a next-gen advisor. The important lesson he learned from the Jamaican Bobsled team. Why leaning into his true self on social media has been a significant marketing driver His recommendations for advisors about to launch their own firm  Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: Website: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect with Brian Seymour: Website: Prosperitage Wealth LinkedIn: Brian K. Seymour Instagram: Brian Keith Seymour II About Our Guest:  Brian K. Seymour, II is the Principal and Founder of Prosperitage Wealth, , a fee-only RIA dedicated to closing the racial wealth gap by helping Black professionals make smart money decisions through unbiased financial advice. He has been a financial planner for over a decade earning the Series 6, 7, 63 and 66 certifications. He holds the Chartered Financial Consultant®(ChFC), Retirement Income Certified Professional®(RICP®), Wealth Management Certified Professional® (WMCP®) designations and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER. Brian is a member of The American College of Financial Services 2024 NextGen Advisory Task Force,  Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT), Association of African American Financial Advisors (AAAA), the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA) and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. In his spare time, he moonlights as a youth chauffeur, sports coach and proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. just south of the Wakandan capital of Atlanta with his wife and three kids.

In this episode of Focused on the Future, Suzanne Siracuse, talks with Will Trout, Director of the Securities and Investments practice at Datos Insights, on the how technology advancements are impacting our industry, why the major resurgence of alternative investments and that the client of the future will require personalization of advice. Specifically, Will discusses: The evolution of Generative AI tools  The importance of data hygiene in how firms implement tech effectively. Why Portfolio personalization is the future. The increased adoption of alternatives by financial advisors  How M&A activity is impacting the advisor’s business model and their offerings to clients Connect with Suzanne Siracuse:   Website: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect with Will Trout: Website: Datos Insights LinkedIn: William Trout  Email: [email protected] About our Guest: William Trout serves as Director of the Securities and Investments practice at Datos Insights, focusing on technology strategy and innovation in the capital markets. He has particular expertise in platform automation; data capture, storage and analytics; and portfolio management and optimization. Within the wealth and asset management arena, his interests include investment advisory and wholesaling and distribution services, as well as private banking and trust. Will’s research and consulting work is informed by more than more than two decades of industry experience. Prior to joining Datos Insights, Will led wealth and asset management in the U.S. and the U.K. at Celent, a division of Oliver Wyman, before launching separate advisor- and investor-focused research practices at Javelin Strategy & Research. Prior to those roles, Will spent many years in product and segment management at BBVA Compass, where he helped guide the introduction of a pioneering managed-accounts platform and the expansion of banking and investments services targeting high-net-worth and institutional investors. An authority on digital advice delivery, Will has been widely quoted in the trade press as well as in publications such as the Financial Times and The Wall Street Journal. He is also a frequent speaker at industry conferences and gatherings

In this episode of Focused on the Future, veteran industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with Anna N’Jie Konte, president of Re-Envision Wealth, on the importance of taking a human first approach with clients, how every advisor can incorporate AI into their practices and why she is reframing the way first generation wealth builders think about money. Specifically, Anna discusses: Speaking on a “human” level to clients, especially the next generation of investors. How her background influenced her decision to focus on serving women of color. Why clients’ money behaviors and experiences affect her overall planning recommendations. How she uses AI tools to provide advanced planning, automate manual tasks and elevate her marketing efforts Her advice for firms considering merging or selling their practice How she uses the DISK assessment in managing and developing her team. Why underrepresented groups are leaving our industry at a higher rate and how we can combat it. Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Anna N’Jie Konte: Website: Re-Envision Wealth LinkedIn: Anna N’Jie-Konte Instagram: @anjiekonte Email: [email protected] Anna N’Jie Konte BIO   Anna N’Jie-Konte, MBA, CFP® is the President and Director of Financial Planning for Re-Envision Wealth. As President, Anna manages the firm’s financial planning, advisory, and operations strategies. She is a proud Puerto Rican, Gambian-American who is committed to building a firm where access to excellent, values-aligned financial advice is the norm, not the exception. Having spent her childhood watching the strong women around her live lives dictated by their bank balances, she’s on a mission to rewrite the money stories of women of color.   She is a 3x winner of Investopedia’s “Top 100 Influential Financial Advisors” and has been named “10 Young Advisors to Watch” by Financial Advisor Magazine. She serves as a CFP Board Brand Ambassador; an advisory board member to Wealth.com; and a board member of the FInserv Foundation.

In the first episode of Season Two of the Focused on the Future podcast, veteran industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with Carina Diamond, CEO of Stella Secunda and Director of Diversitas, Expanding Diversity in Wealth Management. They discuss the importance of adopting a personal approach with every client and how that leads to more business. Carina also describes why talent development and retention is everybody’s job and how having a beginner’s mindset attributes to growth both personally and professionally.  Specifically, Carina details: The critical areas firms and advisors need to consider for success now and in the future, as we navigate changing investor demographics How programs such as Diversitas and the Externship play a role in attracting nextgen talent into our profession Her top recommendations for firms on growing their client base; it starts with getting personal Resources: Diversitas Website Externship – Amplified Planning Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Carina Diamond: Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: Carina Diamond  About Our Guest: An award-winning financial advisor, entrepreneur and executive, Carina Diamond is the founder and CEO of Stella Secunda, Latin for “Next Star,” which provides consultative organic growth strategies to a variety of companies in the financial services industry. Carina is the Director of Diversitas, Expanding Diversity in Wealth Management, a national initiative founded at The University of Akron. She also consults with a major insurance company on a financial wellness app, and is a sought-after speaker at industry conferences.  Throughout her 30-year career, Carina has built and scaled successful wealth management teams, including her own. Five years after launching her RIA, she sold the business to Dakota Wealth Management, where she joined the firm first as Chief Experience Officer and was later promoted to Chief Growth Officer.   

In the latest episode of the Focused on the Future podcast, veteran industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with Teri Shepard, president of Carson Group, on the evolution of the role that a financial advisor plays, how she and her firm are investing in women and why constantly challenging oneself is the only way to evolve and grow. Specifically, Teri discusses: The key areas Carson Group is focused on to best serve current and future clients. The evolving role of financial advisors; now more like coaches and therapists. Why she and her firm are taking an active role in advancing women in our profession. The top takeaways from her firms recently released Women in Wealth Management survey. Her advice for men on how to be better allies and advocates for women. Connect With Suzanne Siracuse:  LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter/X: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Teri Shepherd: Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: Teri Shepherd  LinkedIn: Carson Group, LLC Twitter/X: Teri Shepherd Twitter/X: Carson Group, LLC About Our Guest: Teri Shepherd currently serves as the President of Carson Group, where she plays a pivotal role in enhancing operational efficiency and advancing the company’s long-term vision. As the first female executive at the firm, Teri has become a prominent role model for women within Carson and the broader financial services industry. Teri’s commitment to advancing gender diversity within the organization and the financial services sector has garnered widespread recognition. She has been acknowledged by organizations such as InvestmentNews’ Women to Watch, Financial Planning Magazine’s Top Women in Asset Management, the Stevie Awards for Female Executive of the Year and WatersTechnology’s Women in Technology & Data Awards Gender Equality Professional of the Year. Before joining Carson, Teri held the position of Executive VP, CFO, and COO at an independent broker-dealer, RIA and insurance company for a decade. Additionally, she served as the corporate controller of a publicly traded biotech firm for two years. Teri is an alumna of the University of Nebraska–Kearney, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting. Beyond her professional endeavors, Teri finds joy in spending quality time with her husband and three sons. She and her family enjoy camping, water skiing, and playing sports.

In the latest episode of Focused on the Future, veteran industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with Mike LaMena, CEO of Wealthspire, on how he is ensuring his clients never outgrow his firm’s offering and advice, creating a DEIB strategy that works and why the future of advice is “human.” Specifically, Mike and Suzanne discuss: His unique journey from a volunteer teacher in the Bronx, to working for a top advisor at Morgan Stanley to CEO at an RIA Why going from a front office to a back-office role shaped who he is as a leader His firm’s focus on offering specialized services and specific areas of expertise  Why family office services, especially trust and estate areas, are key to his growth strategy How he is addressing mutli-generational planning with a “matching” program His three-pillar DEIB strategy and why he’s made this a priority Why a giving back mindset will attract and retain both team members and clients. Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse [email protected] Connect With MIKE LAMENA: Wealthspire Company LinkedIn: Wealthspire Advisors Personal LinkedIn: Michael LaMena [email protected] About our Guest: Mike LaMena is the Chief Executive Officer of Wealthspire Advisors, having joined the firm in September 2017. He has 27+ years of experience building, operating and leading global wealth management organizations. His commitment to service excellence and his fundamental belief in the power of the firm’s independent, conflict-free model of financial advice inspires his enthusiasm to serve clients and expand the business. Throughout his time at Wealthspire, Mike has helped grow the organization to over $20 billion in AUM with 22 offices across the country and more than 300 employees. Prior to joining the firm, Mike spent seven years at HighTower, serving as president and chief operating officer, playing an instrumental leadership role in scaling the business from a start-up organization to a nationally recognized financial services firm. He began his career in financial services with a 14-year tenure at Morgan Stanley, where he served as executive director of Private Wealth Management Operations in New York, as well as executive director of Private Wealth Management for Asia in Hong Kong. Before entering the financial services profession, Mike did a year of service as a volunteer high school teacher at Mount St. Michael Academy in the Bronx, NY.

In the latest episode of Focused on the Future, industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with Dr. Sylvia Rose, assistant dean, James T. George School of Business at Hampton University, and Dr. Curtis Kidd Telemaque, director, HBS Center for Financial Excellence and Adjunct Professor at the School of Business at Howard University. Their thoughtful insights into what their students are looking for in a career and in an employer should be a must listen for any firm seeking to hire for the future. They also provide advice to firms on how to best partner with a HBCU and what they can do differently to better engage with the growing diverse talent pool. Specifically, Dr Rose and Dr Kidd discuss: What their students are looking for in an internship program How they advise their students on pursuing the best employer for them What works and what doesn’t when seeking to partner with a HBCU Key challenges in attracting HBCU students to a career in wealth management.  How firms, both large and small, can attract and engage with a diverse talent base. Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Dr. Sylvia Rose: Website: Hampton University Company LinkedIn: Hampton University  Personal LinkedIn: Sylvia Rose, Esq.  Email:  [email protected] Connect With Dr Curtis Kidd Telemaque: Website: Howard University Home Company LinkedIn: Howard University  Personal LinkedIn: Curtis K.  Email: [email protected]   About Our Guests: Dr Sylvia Rose Dr Rose is the Interim Dean and Assistant Professor of Finance in the School of Business at Hampton University. Dean Rose received her B.S. in Finance from Hampton University and a Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law School. She is a member of the Virginia State Bar. A few professional activities at Hampton University (HU) have included Faculty Representative to the HU Board of Trustees, Chairperson of Committee on the Financial and Physical Resources of SACS, Member of a University Grant team responsible for a $500K Financial Literacy Grant, Advisor to MBA Case Competition Teams and Primary Advisor to Undergraduate Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She is published in The Journal of Business and Finance Research; and a recipient of the Hampton University E.L. Hamm Distinguished Teaching Award. Dean Rose annually participates as guest speaker for numerous student sponsored activities and panel discussions; Honors College Capstone faculty participant; and serves on various other university activities as requested. Prior work experience includes being a licensed Financial Advisor/Broker at Merrill Lynch. Dean Rose was also the former General Counsel for Hampton University, wherein she handled legal affairs of the University. Dean Rose served as an Attorney for law firms in Washington, DC and in Newport News, VA. Dean Rose is a member of several professional and civic organizations. Dr Curtis Kidd Telemaque Dr. Kidd Telemaque embarked on his professional journey after graduating from the University of Michigan in May 2000, initiating his career as an Institutional Equity Trader with a boutique firm in June of the same year. His trajectory in the financial sector continued as he assumed the role of General Securities and Registered Options Principal at a mid-tier brokerage in 2004. Concurrently, Dr. Telemaque pursued higher education and obtained a Master of Business Administration degree in Finance from Howard University. Notably, during this period, he served as an adjunct instructor of Advanced Algebra at Prince George’s Community College. In 2008, driven by a passion for research and a commitment to Africana Studies, Dr. Kidd Telemaque commenced his journey toward a research degree at Howard University. Drawing from his robust economic and financial background, his research interests converged on economic development and financial policy analysis in Africa. Presently, Dr. Kidd Telemaque occupies several significant roles, reflecting his diverse expertise. He serves as a subject matter expert with several private and public clients, where his analytical skills contribute to informed decision-making. Additionally, he holds the position of Managing Partner at Visions Consulting Group, actively participating in strategic consultancy for higher education. As an Executive of Lwazi Transportation Services, LLC, Dr. Telemaque spearheads initiatives in the transportation sector, specifically electric vehicles. Furthermore, he imparts his knowledge as an adjunct professor in management consulting, applied economics, and global management. Dr. Kidd Telemaque’s multifaceted career showcases his commitment to continuous learning, expertise in finance and economics, and a dedication to making impactful contributions to students in various areas of finance.

In the latest episode of Focused on the Future, veteran industry leader, Suzanne Siracuse, talks with Jimmy Lee , Founder and CEO of Wealth Consulting Group, on focusing on “where the puck is going”, the debate around ESG and its future, and the many applications and use cases on AI in financial planning. Specifically, Jimmy discusses: The shift in the way clients want to be communicated with Why and how his firm is attracting top female advisor talent His important advice to firms looking to acquire other firms The various ways AI will transform the wealth management industry How his firm’s new ESG screened portfolios will help capture the investor of the future. His philosophy on providing financial planning as an added value Understanding what your “genius” is not just for yourself but also for your team Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Jimmy Lee:  Email: [email protected] Website: Home | The Wealth Consulting Group (wealthcg.com) Company LinkedIn: The Wealth Consulting Group: Overview | LinkedIn Personal LinkedIn: Jimmy Lee | LinkedIn About Our Guest: Jimmy Lee is the Jimmy is the Founder and CEO of The Wealth Consulting Group (WCG). He began his career in 1995 and has been self-employed from the very beginning and has grown WCG as an entrepreneur into a wealth management firm with a national presence. After almost two decades of managing branch offices and supervising other financial advisors for two Fortune 100 financial companies, Jimmy founded WCG’s current business as a SEC Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) in Oct. 2014 and also became affiliated with LPL Financial for brokerage services. Financial Advisor Magazine recognized WCG as the 5th fastest growing RIA in 2016 and WCG was awarded the InvestmentNews for Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion in 2018* The financial media call on Jimmy for his knowledge in investing and the advisory industry. He appears regularly on CNBC, Fox Business, Yahoo Finance, and TD Ameritrade. He has been profiled and quoted in the Wall St. Journal, Marketwatch, Bloomberg, Financial Planning, Forbes, and many other financial publications.

In the latest episode of Focused on the Future, veteran industry leader, Suzanne Siracuse, talks with Kay Lynn Mayhue, President of Merit Financial Advisors, on the importance of cultivating top talent and creating a strong company culture, organic growth tactics that work, and the many ways to attract and support women in financial services. Specifically, Kay Lynn discusses: Why Merit’s Servant leadership style has been instrumental in creating a firm culture where team members thrive. How to meet and exceed client expectations as they continue to evolve Effective organic growth strategies including digital marketing initiatives and revenue share programs. Why setting personal boundaries and being transparent are critical when it comes to attracting and supporting women in financial advice. The significance of having an adaptable tech stack to meet future business needs Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Kay Lynn Mayhue: Merit Financial Advisors LinkedIn: Merit Financial Advisors  LinkedIn: Kay Lynn Mayhue Twitter: Merit Financial Advisors Email: [email protected] About Our Guest: Kay Lynn Mayhue is the President of Merit Financial Advisors, a national wealth management firm that supports advisors affiliated with independent broker-dealers, as well as those who are registered investment advisors Kay Lynn has played many roles in the financial advisory industry: as a successor, partner, seller, and buyer. This unique and diverse background allows her to be able to relate to advisors in all phases of their careers and mergers and acquisitions. With a background in financial planning and leadership, her career expands over several areas, including advising clients, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic growth. She holds her CFP®, AEP®, and RFC® and has been a critical decision-maker for two firms over the past twenty years. Kay Lynn has overseen the majority of Merit’s mergers and acquisitions and has been recognized for that by winning the 2023 WealthManagment.com M&A Leader of the Year.  She is passionate about helping people take their careers – and themselves – to exceptional levels. Kay Lynn’s influence in the industry and her drive for success is a driving factor in Merit’s ongoing growth and appeal to growth-oriented advisors.

In the latest episode of Focused on the Future, veteran industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with Maurice Miller, CFP, Managing Director of The Miller’s Wealth Management on reevaluating how new advisors are compensated, assisting your clients in talking about money with their children, and why there is no better time than now to be in the wealth management industry. Specifically, Maurice discusses: Why, in order to broaden the talent pool into wealth management, we need to challenge the current structure of how new advisors are compensated.  How advisors can advise their clients on talking to their children about money Why embracing technology and understanding the impact of social media is key to achieving success for the future In order to capture younger investors, advisors need to meet them where they are now, AND GROW WITH THEM As people are becoming more comfortable with sharing their personal beliefs it is also impacting their investment selection Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Maurice Miller: The Miller’s Wealth Management LinkedIn: Maurice Miller Email: [email protected] About Our Guest:  Maurice is driven, consistent, compassionate, and an educator at heart. He positions clients to take a big picture approach by helping them achieve their financial goals in a concise, sensible manner. Educating clientele on the “why” behind every financial decision along the way, he simplifies their complex needs and goals. The clientele who works with Maurice leave with a clear, written roadmap to their financial future, which focuses on six key areas of wealth management. Maurice Miller has served small business owners, executives, professionals, and retirees through the financial services industry since 2005.  Maurice also holds the Series 7 & 66 Securities License, health and life insurance agent license, State of Michigan continuing education instructor’s license for CPAs, and the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (TM), Chartered Financial Consultant®, and Certified Exit Planning Advisor® professional designations. Maurice is an advisory Board member of C.H.I.P (Changing How Individuals Prosper,) The American College of Financial Services Alumni Network, and is also a member of the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER’S (TM) NATIONAL DISCIPLINARY AND ETHICS COMMISSION. Maurice is a 2021-2023 Five Star Wealth Manager Award Recipient, a 2022 InvestmentNews 40 Under 40 Honoree, and was inducted into the John Hay High School (Cleveland, OH) Hall of fame in 2023.  He is also the co-creator of a financial literacy curriculum designed for middle and high school students and is also the author of two published books; Navigator Your Way To and Through Retirement, and When The Word Meets The Wallet; a Biblical guide to money management.  

In the latest episode of Focused on the Future, veteran industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with Luis Rosa the founder of Build a Better Financial Future LLC, on the importance of authenticity in your approach and your business model,  changing the status quo on pricing models, and how his BLX Internship program is cultivating the advisor of the future. Specifically, Luis discusses: How, by sharing his own personal experiences with money, translates into new clients His strategy on serving first generation wealth creators. Why leading with financial planning is key to capturing the client of the future The ground breaking program he co-Founded, The BLX Internship Why having a specialty will set a practice better up for success Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Luis Rosa: BuildaBetterFinancialFuture.com BlatinX (BLX) Internship Program LinkedIn: Luis Rosa LinkedIn: Build A Better Financial Future Twitter: Luis Rosa Podcast: On My Way To Wealth About our Guest: Luis is the founder of Build a Better Financial Future LLC. He came to the U.S. at age 11 from the Dominican Republic. Growing up in New York City and now living in California, Luis noticed the lack of financial literacy in his community and was inspired by his parents to work hard and pursue an education.  Luis uses his platform to help spread financial literacy via media outreach as well as encourage younger and diverse planners to join and thrive in the industry. He is the host of the “On My Way to Wealth” podcast, and co-founder of the BlatinX (BLX) Internship Program and co-founder of the SER Latino Advisor Summit. Luis was named one of InvestmentNews 40 Under 40 in 2019 and Financial Advisor Magazine’s 10 Young Advisors to Watch, as well as Investopedia Top 100 Financial Advisors in 2020, 2021, and 2022, and 2023 and named one of 8 Hispanic Personal Finance Influencers to Follow for Money Advice by The Penny Hoarder and NerdWallet. About BLX: The BLX Internship Program provides an entryway into the financial planning profession for aspiring Black and Latinx financial planners by helping them obtain paid summer internships with financial planning focused firms.  

In the latest episode of the new podcast series, Focused on the Future, veteran industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with JC Abusaid, CEO of Halbert Hargrove, on the importance of purposeful collaboration, being fearless on culture, clients and teams,  and capturing a client’s loyalty for the long term. Specifically, JC discusses: How fate and persistence landed his dream job How his “no fences” approach led him to building successful teams Handling conflict through consistent communication and role clarity The importance of documenting your firm’s culture strategy His firm’s unique approach to working with clients.  Resources: LifePhase Investing Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With JC Abusaid: Website:  Halbert Hargrove LinkedIn: Halbert Hargrove LinkedIn: JC Abusaid About Our Guest:  As CEO and President of Halbert Hargrove, JC is guiding the firm confidently into the future. Execution and operational excellence are his bywords; we consider him our glue. He formally took the helm of CEO in December 2021. For many years, working alongside Chairman and HH founder Russ Hill, JC has had the privilege to be involved in most facets of the firm, and has enjoyed being part of HH’s growth and success. JC enjoys the dynamic nature of his role: “I like solving big challenges,” he says. He joined HH as Operations Manager in 1996 and was named President and Chief Operating Officer in 2010. JC earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Finance emphasis from the Colegio de Estudios Superiores de Administracion in Bogota, Colombia, and his MBA from University of Redlands School of Business. He was awarded the ACCREDITED INVESTMENT FIDUCIARY designation by the University of Pittsburgh-affiliated Center for Fiduciary Studies. In 2016, JC was part of Stanford University’s pioneer cohort in earning a LEAD Certificate in Corporate Innovation from Stanford Graduate School of Business. In 2021, he was again part of an inaugural class, this time in taking part in BlackRock’s first Emerging Leader Lab. Married to Ruth for more than 30 years, JC is dad to Nico and Isabella – and a Boston Terrier named Lola. After a decade-long odyssey of breaking ground and overcoming an absurd number of obstacles, JC is happy to report that the Abusaid family finally took up residence in their Laguna Beach home in 2021. JC’s commitment to exercising and eating healthy is legendary; call him a health freak, and he’ll take it as a compliment. Outside of the office, you’ll find him running, mountain biking, wakeboarding, and snowboarding.

In the latest episode of the new podcast series, Focused on the Future, veteran industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with Lazetta Braxton, Co-CEO of 2050 Wealth Partners, about how she is structuring her firm to serve the investor of the future, why she doesn’t like the term “mentor”, and why we all need to pay attention to Gen Z. Specifically, Lazetta discusses: Her firm’s business model and how it is allowing people who are income rich and building assets to have access to financial planning and a partner with them on the journey The one important conversation that led her to become one of the leading voices in our industry Why she is leaning into being a “friend-tor” vs a mentor Her advice on working with the media  Why firms need to be paying attention to what Gen Z is saying  Resources: #DoingTheWork Leadership MasterClass Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: Website: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Lazetta Braxton: Website: Lazetta & Associates  Website: 2050 Wealth Partners Website: #DoingTheWork Leadership MasterClass LinkedIn: Lazetta Braxton Instagram: Lazetta Braxton Twitter: Lazetta Braxton About Our Guest: For Lazetta Rainey Braxton, MBA, CFP®, it’s all about doing the work.  She is passionate about amplifying diversity, inclusion, equality and belonging in the financial planning profession, and does so through financial planning, public speaking, writing, consulting, and coaching.  Lazetta serves as co-CEO of 2050 Wealth Partners, where she provides access to financial planning to individuals and families who desire financial freedom to influence, experience, give and make a difference for their family and future generations. Through Lazetta’s business consulting practice, Lazetta & Associates, she employs a “no fear, no shame zone” to help financial services firms nurture culturally aware and hospitable workplace environments that ignite innovation and allocate equity amongst their employees. A sought-after financial expert, Lazetta delivers keynote presentations and workshops with both care and urgency that invite attendees to nurture and advance human capital. Recognized for her leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication, Lazetta was named as a Crain’s New York Business Notable Black Leader and Executive, as well as one of the top 10 of Investopedia’s 100 Top Financial Advisors for three consecutive years. Investment News’ honored her as one of its inaugural Women to Watch and Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion recipients. She also received the Association of African American Financial Advisors’ Leadership Legacy Award and the Heart of Financial Planning award from the Financial Planning Association.  Lazetta’s national media presence includes appearances on NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt, Nightly Business Report, and CNBC’s Closing Bell. She writes on topics related to culture, talent and wealth as a member of the CNBC Digital Financial Advisor Council and a contributor to the Wealth Management to the WSJ Experts blog, WealthManagment.com, and NextAvenue.org. In all her endeavors, she is on a mission to create wealth for the common good.

In this episode of Focused on the Future, industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with Trap Kloman, the President and COO of Commonwealth Financial Network, to discuss strategies and principles that have contributed to the long-standing success of Commonwealth Financial Network and its dedication to serving its advisors effectively. Specifically, Trap discusses: How a customer-centric approach has helped Commonwealth build strong relationships with advisors as their mission and reason for being. The firm believes that if they take care of their advisors, success will naturally follow. Why a purpose-driven mindset is essential in the industry, and Trap reiterates the importance of having a clear purpose and staying true to it in all their endeavors. Balancing client requests with the firm’s capabilities and the need to prioritize requests based on what is feasible and aligns with the firm’s overall mission. Resources: Commonwealth Financial Network Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Trap Kloman: Commonwealth Website Commonwealth LinkedIn Commonwealth Twitter Commonwealth Facebook:  Commonwealth YouTube:  Trap Kloman LinkedIn About Our Guest: Trap Kloman serves as President and Chief Operating Officer at Commonwealth Financial Network. With the firm since 2015, he works to strengthen the success of our company and our advisors by ensuring that all members of our community have the resources, tools, and opportunities they need to remain competitive. That starts by building relationships, lending an ear, and keeping abreast of future opportunities and industry trends.

In the latest episode of the new podcast series, Focused on the Future, veteran industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with Heather Fortner, CEO of SignatureFD, about the importance of understanding people’s motivations,  the evolution of a firm’s messaging and why inclusion is key to a positive culture. Specifically, Heather discusses: Her journey from intern to CCO to CEO Why her degree in professional counselling was the most important thing she has done. Her firm’s unique website messaging and how it came about. The one question she was asked influenced how she builds and develops her teams.  Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Heather Fortner: Website: www.signaturefd.com Company LinkedIn: (8) SignatureFD: Overview | LinkedIn Personal LinkedIn: (8) Heather Robertson Fortner | LinkedIn Email: [email protected] About Our Guest: Heather is the Chief Executive Office and Chair of the Board of SignatureFD, an integrated and comprehensive wealth management firm with offices in Atlanta, Georgia and Charlotte, North Carolina, recently named to the Inc. 5000. During her twenty-year tenure at the firm, Heather has created and executed strategies that have exponentially grown SignatureFD’s AUM from $250M to over $7B.  Her unwavering commitment to leading and building teams that exhibit excellence in leadership with heart has garnered her national recognition. Among these accolades, Heather has been awarded CEO of the Year by Wealth Management Magazine in 2021 and Most Admired CEO by the Atlanta Business Chronicle in 2022. In 2023, she was selected to the Leadership Atlanta Class of 2023 and named to the Titan 100 List.  She is a longstanding advocate of DEI initiatives both at SignatureFD and within the wealth management industry broadly. Her focus on empowering women to take on leadership positions has helped SignatureFD achieve a 90% female executive leadership team. Her belief that every person has a purpose in life, to which wealth properly aligned can help support, is the cornerstone of SignatureFD’s client promise, Net Worthwhile. Resources: GPGL Quiz: https://signaturefd.com/mygpgl/

In the latest episode of the new podcast series, Focused on the Future, veteran industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with Peggy Haslach, financial advisor at The Finity Group, talk about how to best serve LGBTQ+ clients and team members, creating a niche practice that aligns with you as a person, and why she believes our profession “needs more pies!” Specifically, Peggy discusses:  Why she changed careers and became a financial advisor.   Critical best practices in serving the LGBTQ+ community.  The importance of discussing ESG with your entire client base Various ways in which firms and their teams can approach DEI effectively.   Resources: Females and Finance | Home Page Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Peggy Haslach: Website: www.thefinitygroup.com Company LinkedIn: Finity Group, LLC ® Personal LinkedIn: Peggy Haslach, CFP®,CLU®  Email: [email protected] About Our Guest: Peggy Haslach, CFP, CLU is a Financial Advisor with The Finity Group.  Peggy has built her practice working with female practice (veterinarians, doctors, and attorneys) and small business owners. At age 53 she made a career change when she saw, first-hand, the effect life events had on women’s financial security. She realized there were very few female financial advisors and financial advisors who could relate to the different planning needs of women and LGBTQ.  Peggy is a lifelong athlete. She was a Highschool All American Swimmer and a member of the Women’s National Waterpolo Team. As an athlete, trainer and coach, Peggy uses a coach’s approach with her clients. Peggy has also earned her both her CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER ( CFP®) and Chartered Life Underwriter ® (CLU®) designations. Peggy is a member of The Finity Group’s Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Committee and was honored as a Rising Star at the 2022 InvestmentNews Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Awards for her work promoting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the financial services industry. Peggy and her wife Desiree live in Sumner, Washington with their 4 Border Collies.

In the latest episode of the new podcast series, Focused on the Future, veteran industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with Leslie Tabor, Director of Education and Consulting at Charles Schwab, about what key areas top performing firms are investing in, mastering inclusive leadership skills, and why a “people first, employees second” approach to culture is a win for all. Specifically, Leslie discusses: Why having a talent strategy is critical to firm growth.  Tips for creating a team culture in hybrid work environments. The important of offering Training and Development programs.  Recruitment and retention strategies that work. Resources: RIAConnect Talent Advantage | Schwab Advisor Services Externship – Amplified Planning Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Leslie Tabor: Website: Why Schwab | Schwab Advisor Services Company LinkedIn: Charles Schwab: Overview | LinkedIn Personal LinkedIn: Leslie Y. Tabor | LinkedIn Email: [email protected] About Our Guest: Leslie Y. Tabor is director of Business Consulting & Education for Schwab Advisor Services. She oversees the strategic direction of talent management programs designed to help independent advisors evolve and grow their firms. Since joining Schwab in 1999, Leslie has held leadership roles in operations, risk management, and program management. She is passionate about advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the financial services industry; she mentors young professionals and works with the Professional Business Women of California, Financial Women of San Francisco, and the CFP Board Center for Financial Planning. Leslie holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Phoenix. She was recognized as one of the Top 100 Filipina Women in 2015 by the Filipina Women’s Network, with the 2016 Industry Leader Award by the Professional Business Women of California, with the 2019 “See It, Be It” Role Model Award by InvestmentNews, and with the 2021 “Diversity and Inclusion Luminaries Award by ThinkAdvisor.  

In the latest episode of the new podcast series, Focused on the Future, veteran industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with industry legend, Mark Tibergien, on the key areas every firm needs to focus on to ensure success, why he encourages everyone to embrace reverse mentoring and how everyone can participate in improving financial literacy in their communities. Specifically, Mark discusses: The Evolving Role of a Financial Advisor His Four step process in Setting a Successful Firm Strategy. The importance of finding your differentiator. His view on the biggest transformation in the financial advice industry Reverse Mentoring:  Why he’s a fan! Why improving financial literacy is personal for him  Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Mark Tibergien: LinkedIn: Mark Tibergien Email: [email protected] About Our Guest: Mark Tibergien retired in 2020, as CEO of Pershing Advisor Solutions, LLC, a BNY Mellon Company, and now works as a management consultant, speaker and board member with other enterprises that are going through dynamic transformation.  Currently, he serves as Advisor in Residence for Ernst & Young Wealth & Asset Management Sector, is on the board of Pathstone, a multi-location RIA backed by Lovell Minnick Partners and Kelso & Company, and as an advisory board member for Commonwealth Financial Network. His industry specialty is in financial services, in particular working with Wealth Management Firms, Broker/Dealers, and Registered Investment Advisory firms through each stage of their business evolution.

In the latest episode of the new podcast series, Focused on the Future, veteran industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with Kristi Rodriguez, Senior Vice President of The Nationwide Retirement Institute, about redefining retirement, appealing to the Gen Z investor and an innovative approach to introducing the financial services industry to diverse students. Specifically, Kristi discusses: Taking a “safety first” approach when it comes to retirement income How to best serve Gen Z’ers What and Who inspired her to spearhead the creation of The Financial Alliance for Racial Equity A program, that actually works in recruiting diverse talent to the financial services industry Resources: Find a variety of resources for financial professionals at Nationwidefinancial.com  Resources for working with diverse clients Nationwide Advisor Advocate blog Learn more about the Financial Alliance for Racial Equity at theFARE.org Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Kristi Rodriguez: Website: Nationwide Financial LinkedIn: Nationwide LinkedIn: Kristi Martin Rodriguez Email:  [email protected] About Our Guest: Kristi Martin Rodriguez currently serves as Senior Vice President of the Nationwide Retirement Institute® for Nationwide Financial, leading the teams responsible for advocating for and educating members, partners and industry leaders on issues impacting their ability to have a secure financial future. Kristi is an active member of the community, working with several non-profit and social organizations that aid unserved communities throughout the country. Kristi was one of the founding members of the Ohio chapter of The National Association of Securities Professionals (NASP), an organization helping people of color and women achieve inclusion in our industry. Kristi serves as a board member for Kindway, a non-profit organization dedicated to the successful re-entry of incarcerated men and women into the community. Additionally, Kristi is a member of the Board of Trustees for The American College of Financial Services.

In the latest episode of the new podcast series, Focused on the Future, veteran industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with Tyrone Ross, about what it will take to best serve the client of the future, the importance of firm culture and why he still believes in crypto!   Specifically, Tyrone discusses: What the client of the future is going to want in a financial advisor  Why the words “wealth management” may exclude an entire group of investors. Which industry firms have him “excited”  Why he is still bullish on crypto. His advice on creating a culture that embraces inclusivity. Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Tyrone: 401 Financial Turnqey LinkedIn: Turnqey Labs, Inc. LinkedIn: Tyrone Ross Twitter: Tyrone V. Ross Jr.  Email: [email protected] About Our Guest: Tyrone Ross is the CEO and Co-founder of Turnqey Labs, Inc. and President and Founder of 401 Financial, a registered investment adviser. Formerly as the CEO and Co-founder of Onramp Invest he raised $7M in venture capital from Gemini’s Frontier Fund, Coinbase Ventures, SoftBank’s Opportunity Fund and others. He has been recognized by Investment News 40 under 40 (2019), and WealthManagement.com as a top ten advisor set to change the industry in 2019. FinancialPlanning.com named him as one of 20 people who will change wealth management in 2020. He was recently named as Investopedia’s Top 100 financial advisors, Think Advisor’s 2021 IA25: VIP’s Pushing Advisors Forward, and most recently acknowledged as one of Barron’s 10 people to watch in wealth management in 2022.

In the latest episode of the new podcast series, Focused on the Future, Veteran Industry leader Suzanne Siracuse talks with Michael Nathanson, Chair and CEO of wealth management firm, The Colony Group, to discuss keys to retaining top talent, setting up a sustainable firm for the future and what we all can do to make an impact on our industry.   Specifically, Michael discusses:  His overall philosophy and process around attracting retaining and hiring top talent Deciphering the difference between descriptive and prescriptive cultures.  Why he set out to create a firm culture that is opposite of the Borgs from Star Trek. The six traits in the humane immune system that companies also seek to be sustainable.  Why he has taken the Net Positive Pledge and is looking for other fin serv firms to do the same. Resources: Net Positive Pledge Connect With Suzanne Siracuse: WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: WealthManagment.com LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse Email: [email protected] Connect With Michael Nathanson:  The Colony Group Company LinkedIn: The Colony Group Personal LinkedIn: Michael Nathanson Twitter –  Michael Nathanson Email: [email protected] About Our Guest: Michael Nathanson, Chair and Chief Executive Officer of The Colony Group, is a highly respected and experienced leader in the wealth management industry. He is relentlessly dedicated to bringing meaning and joy to the lives of Colony Group clients and team members by fostering a culture that values lifelong learning, cultivates innovation, and offers opportunities to live lives full of passion and purpose.