The Focused Advisor Podcast

Derrick Kinney is a Crowd-favorite speaker & storyteller helping advisors make more money + meaning.He is a Former Top 1% Advisor, and has been featured on FOX, CNBC & top podcasts. We delve into the art of effective communication and branding specifically for financial advisors. We talk about strategies to build trust and credibility with clients, enhance your personal brand, and communicate complex financial concepts with clarity and confidence. These insights will help you stand out in a competitive market. Connect w/ Derrick: https://www.derrickkinney.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrickkinney/(00:00) Introduction and Family Entrepreneurship03:51 Derrick's Journey into Financial Advisory07:04 Building Community Connections10:04 Soft Skills  to use in your practice14:51 Structuring Financial Advisory Services17:46 Positioning as a Specialist21:02 Creating Relatable Connections23:58 Speaking Engagements and Personal Goals26:57 The Power of Community Involvement29:47 The Psychology of Client Relationships33:09 The Entertainer's Mindset in Financial Advising39:40 Building Connections Through Content Creation46:39 The Importance of Engagement and Authenticity52:48 Transitioning from Podcasting to Speaking and Coaching54:41 Effective Communication Strategies for Advisors

SummaryIn this conversation, Ryan Ross and Don Connelly explore the significance of storytelling in financial advisory, emphasizing how effective communication can build trust and enhance client relationships. They discuss the importance of understanding client emotions, the art of storytelling, and strategies for crisis communication. Connelly shares insights on avoiding burnout in the advisory profession and the necessity of simplicity and readability in communication. The discussion highlights the need for advisors to think long-term and to practice their storytelling skills to connect with clients effectively. In this conversation, Don Connelly shares insights on effective communication in financial advising, emphasizing the importance of understanding the client's perspective and avoiding the 'curse of knowledge.' He discusses crafting a unique value proposition, effective closing techniques, and innovative strategies for generating new business. Connelly also highlights the significance of niche marketing and the components that make a niche successful. He stresses the need for advisors to communicate effectively during volatile markets and the importance of sticking to the basics for long-term success.Chapters00:00 The Evolution of Storytelling in Communication03:11 The Journey into Financial Advisory05:52 The Art of Storytelling for Advisors08:52 Building Trust Through Effective Communication11:59 Crisis Communication Strategies14:54 Understanding Client Emotions17:52 The Importance of Readability in Communication20:59 Long-Term Thinking in Financial Advisory24:05 Avoiding Burnout in the Advisory Profession26:52 The Role of Simplicity in Financial Communication30:50 The Curse of Knowledge in Communication33:38 Crafting a Unique Value Proposition37:20 Effective Closing Techniques for Advisors40:08 Innovative Business Generation Strategies43:04 The Importance of Niche Marketing47:03 Components of a Successful Niche50:33 Communicating During Volatile Markets52:46 Staying Grounded in Basics for Success

What do acting, database marketing, and one of the biggest names in financial radio have in common?Jake Robinson.In this episode, I sit down with Jake—financial advisor, software builder, and behind-the-scenes catalyst for Dave Ramsey’s early radio career—to explore one of the most unconventional and compelling journeys in the advisory world.Jake shares how a pizza shift turned into a speaking role in a Hollywood movie, and how that same performer’s mindset helped him build a top-producing office with over 50,000 clients and $1 billion AUM at its peak. We talk about:The radio show that launched Dave Ramsey’s career—and why Jake’s firm had to walk away from itWhy most CRMs fail advisors (and what Jake’s team built instead)How their system helped agents double income in under a yearWhat “push-button, make-phone-ring” marketing actually looks likeHow to build collaboration (not competition) in a crowded industryWhy dinners are Jake’s #1 growth strategy—and how to host them rightWhy Uber rides, birthday cards, and 59½ birthdays are all prospecting goldminesJake also explains the concept of optimization—from handshakes to voicemail greetings—and how that one word has guided his entire professional life.Whether you’re an advisor, marketer, or firm owner, you’ll come away with fresh ideas, real tactics, and a new appreciation for doing things a little differently.🎧 Listen now to hear the full story.

Victor Medina is aPresident & Founder at Palante Wealth Advisor. He is also the Founder of Medina Law Group which serves Palante Wealth Advisors exclusively. Victor on LinkedinCONTACT US TODAY:Independent Financial Advisor MarketingWebsite: https://ifamktg.comEmail: [email protected]: (973) 738 - 9308FOLLOW US ON SOCIALS:Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565896600772LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifamktg/Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ifa_mktg/

Sam Shepler is the CEO at Testimonial Hero. CONTACT US TODAY:Independent Financial Advisor MarketingWebsite: https://ifamktg.comEmail: [email protected]: (973) 738 - 9308FOLLOW US ON SOCIALS:Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565896600772LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifamktg/Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ifa_mktg/

Greg Yates and Kirti Naik are global branding and marketing experts. Kirti has build global brands across financial services, at Citi, Oppenheimer Funds, Russel Investments, BNY Mellon, and others. Greg is the former CMO of Institutional Investor. This is a wide ranging conversation that will also give you a great understanding of how Independent Financial Advisors can build their brands in 2025. CONTACT US TODAY: Independent Financial Advisor Marketing Website: https://ifamktg.com Email: [email protected] Phone: (973) 738 - 9308 FOLLOW US ON SOCIALS: Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565896600772 LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifamktg/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ifa_mktg/

In this episode of the Focus Advisor Podcast, host Ryan Ross sits down with Peter Dizdar of Palumbo Wealth Management to dissect the year that was and peer into the crystal ball of 2025. As the financial services industry grapples with technological disruption, regulatory shifts, and evolving client expectations, advisors are at a crossroads. How can they navigate this changing landscape while staying ahead of the curve?Join Ryan and Peter as they dive into: The unexpected drone invasion that put their New Jersey towns on the map Supreme Court rulings that could reshape the regulatory environment The potential impact of AI on compliance and advisor efficiency Strategies for growth in a rapidly evolving industry . Book recommendations to keep you sharp in the coming yearFrom market volatility to the rise of AI, this episode is packed with insights to help financial advisors thrive in uncertain times. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, you won't want to miss this candid conversation about the future of wealth management. CONTACT US TODAY: Independent Financial Advisor Marketing Website: https://ifamktg.com Email: [email protected] Phone: (973) 738 - 9308 FOLLOW US ON SOCIALS: Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565896600772 LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifamktg/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ifa_mktg/

In this episode, we dive into the future of the advisory world with Eden Ovadia, co-founder of FINNY, a revolutionary platform that’s transforming how independent financial advisors grow their businesses. 👨‍💻 The Problem: With traditional client acquisition methods eating up to 70 hours per lead, the financial advisory space is overdue for innovation. How can advisors break free from the inefficiencies of manual prospecting and scale their growth sustainably? 💡 What You’ll Learn: How AI is reshaping organic growth strategies for advisors. Why identifying a niche is no longer optional—it’s essential. The inside story of Finny, from its Y Combinator roots to becoming the “Hinge” for financial advisors. Tactical insights into making meaningful, personalized connections with prospects. Whether you’re an advisor struggling to define your niche, or simply curious about how AI can simplify your business, this conversation will equip you with actionable strategies and a peek into the game-changing tools shaping the future of advising. Read more here: https://ifamktg.com/podcasts/ai-for-financial-advisors-eden-ovadia/ CONTACT US TODAY: Independent Financial Advisor Marketing Website: https://ifamktg.com Email: [email protected] Phone: (973) 738 - 9308 FOLLOW US ON SOCIALS: Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565896600772 LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifamktg/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ifa_mktg/

In this episode of The Focused Advisor Podcast, Ryan Ross hosts April Rudin, founder of The Rudin Group, a marketing powerhouse specializing in wealth management and financial services. April shares her journey of starting her business during the 2008 financial crisis, offering invaluable lessons on how financial advisors can build resilient and impactful brands in uncertain times. The conversation covers the importance of branding in the financial sector, how demographics are shifting the wealth management landscape, and the essential elements of personal and corporate branding. With practical advice for fintech companies, insights into emerging trends, and a preview of April’s upcoming book, this episode is packed with strategies financial advisors can use to elevate their marketing game. 00:00 Navigating Chaos: Marketing in Transition 02:48 Understanding Branding: Corporate vs Personal 05:52 The Evolution of FinTech Messaging 08:39 The Importance of Authenticity in Financial Services 11:58 How Yankee Candle-Naming Style Is Influencing Company Naming 13:11 Lifespan Of A Website 14:45 The Journey of an Entrepreneur: Building a Brand 18:00 The Value of Conferences and Networking 20:51 Finding the Right Clients: Marketing Appreciation 23:39 Embracing Authenticity: Lessons from Martha Stewart CONTACT US TODAY: Independent Financial Advisor Marketing Website: ifamktg.com Email: [email protected] Phone: (973) 738-9308 FOLLOW US ON SOCIALS: Facebook:   /ifamktg LinkedIn:   /ifamktg Instagram:   /ifa_mktg

This episode of the focused advisor podcast is a cameo episode - i went on the concierge medical marketing podcast with my friend Steven Schwartz who runs concierge medical marketing. I share some of the things i've learned after being involved in over 1000 webinars, including the 5 things I believe are elements of a good webinar. And these are as relevant for financial advisors as they are for concierge medical doctors, who dear with High-net individuals and uhnw individuals as well. Enjoy the show.

00:00 Introduction to Patrick Kennedy and His Journey 02:54 Transitioning to Independence in Financial Advisory 05:57 Understanding Alternative Investments 09:04 Accessing Institutional Investment Opportunities 12:14 Exploring Different Types of Alternative Investments 14:55 The Rise of Litigation Finance 18:13 Investing in Infrastructure and Its Benefits 21:04 The Business of Pro Sports Investments 23:55 Private Equity's Role in NFL Expansion 26:55 The Accessibility of Pro Sports Investments 28:01 The Value of Sports Investments 29:30 Real Estate Market Insights 32:17 Breaking into Wealth Management 35:41 Building Strategic Partnerships 39:17 Client Management and Communication 41:48 Operational Tools for Advisors 44:06 Conferences and Networking 45:30 Recommended Reading for Investors 49:27 Embracing AI in Business

Kyril Asatur is the Co-Founder & CEO of Centerfin Capital, a platform for Independent Financial Advisors to help them get a better view of their alternative investments. Connect with Kyril on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyrill-asatur/ Connect with Ryan on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanrossnow/

NAIFA’s Level Up conference was last week in New Jersey. About 70 advisors were there, a few keynote speakers, and one of the speakers, Walter Bond, former NBA player who now is a speaker who energizes people to reach a potential they weren’t aware they could hit.  The conference was all about “leveling up”, and I believe that in order to level up, you need to know where that level is. You need to state your goal.  So I asked a bunch of advisors there, what is your goal?  I also asked them a few more questions: what is a book you’ve read that you enjoyed, and what is a tool that you use.  Some of the answers were VERY surprising - and I’ve compiled them into this podcast.  Take a listen.  NAIFA website: https://belong.naifa.org/ Get The Book On Internet Marketing: https://go.ifamktg.com/book

Google Local Services has been live in major markets for years, are under-utilized by financial advisors. Join this webinar to learn: Why Local Service Ads is a no-brainer for most Independent Financial Advisors How you can jump on board (if you have not already) What it takes to rank in the top 3 results How you can take advantage of high quality leads at low CPL and maximize your ROI to truly WIN with Local Service Ads Learn more here: go.ifamktg.com

Google Notebook LM helps you create summaries of large files of text. Lets see how it does with The Book On Digital Marketing For Independent Financial Advisors. go.ifamktg.com/book

Carmine shares his journey from working in a constrained environment at an insurance company to establishing his own independent advisory firm. He discusses the importance of culture, coaching, and personal development in achieving success, as well as the impact of physical fitness on mental clarity. The conversation also touches on the challenges of attracting clients and advisors, the evolution of core values, and the significance of detaching from daily operations to foster breakthroughs. 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:01 Transitioning to Independence 06:34 Setting Goals and Measuring Success 09:21 Understanding Constrained Environments 11:58 Overcoming Inertia and Achieving Higher Goals 15:52 The Importance of Personal Development and Coaching 21:48 Taking Action and Implementing Ideas 24:34 Evolving Core Values for a Changing Industry 26:35 Effective Business Development Strategies 32:59 Changing Lives: Getting Advisors Out of Constrained Environments 35:43 Respecting the Work: Striving for Excellence in the Financial Industry 53:43 The Mental Benefits of Physical Fitness: Managing Stress and Maintaining Well-being 59:10 Podcast Thumbnail.mp4

I recently was a guest on another podcast called The Concierge Medical Marketing Podcast, and shared 5 tips for starting a podcast. ⁠If you're an Independent Financial Advisor with clients who might need some concierge medical attention, get in touch with Steve, he has a great network of Concierge Medical doctors. https://open.spotify.com/show/6yFIgLCz8AkyEt28viWxy3⁠

Paul Hatch has been in the advisory industry for over 40 years and has seen it from all angles. First as a wirehouse advisor, then in the highest levels of management and then the in the Independent space. In this conversation, Paul Hatch discusses the changes in the advisory business over the years, the strengths and weaknesses of the independent and Wirehouse spaces, and the breakdown of the industry. He highlights the dynamic nature of the independent space, with numerous entrepreneurs creating innovative solutions. He also emphasizes the importance of the advisor-client relationship and the role of technology in improving the advisory business. Hatch predicts that the number of advisors in the broker dealer space will decrease while the RIA space will continue to expand, leading to parity between the two in the next 10 years. In this conversation, Paul H. discusses the future of the advisor space and the role of technology in the industry. He predicts that more advisors will move towards the independent space, where they have the freedom to make decisions that are important for their clients. He also highlights the challenge of the advisor shortage, with more advisors retiring than entering the workforce. Paul believes that younger clients are more likely to choose RIAs over wirehouses, as they are more comfortable with technology and prefer a younger advisor. He emphasizes the importance of trust and communication in building strong client relationships. Find him on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/paul-hatch-580a22a/

This week I speak with Alex Goldstein, Vice President of Wealth Management at Chesapeake Asset Management. Alex shares his journey in the industry and the differences between working at Wirehouses and being independent. He emphasizes the importance of having a targeted niche and a well-defined process to differentiate oneself in the competitive advisory business. Goldstein discusses the use of LinkedIn and AI technology for business development and staying competitive. They discuss various topics including staying in contact with clients, tools used in the business, attending conferences, determining client fit, and developing rapport. Alex emphasizes the importance of staying in touch with clients and providing personalized service. He also shares the tools he uses, such as Charles Schwab, Orion, Redtail, and Powder. Alex mentions that while he stays informed about current events, he focuses more on the macro level rather than stock picks. He also talks about the importance of meeting clients in person, but acknowledges that virtual meetings have become more common post-COVID. Alex explains that their target clients are tech executives with stock grants who are looking to diversify tax efficiently. He mentions that their business is mainly outbound, but referral-based as they grow. Alex also discusses the dress code for client meetings and the importance of asking the right questions to determine if their services are appropriate for potential clients. He concludes by mentioning that Chesapeake Asset Management specializes in alternative investments and can assist clients in non-liquid markets as well. 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:19 Differences Between Wirehouses and Being Independent 06:44 Overcoming Struggles and Learning from Others 11:51 The Importance of a Well-Oiled Process 17:13 Transitioning to an Independent Shop 20:03 Using LinkedIn and Sales Navigator for Prospecting 23:05 Staying Competitive in the Advisory Business 25:07 The Challenges of Working with Athletes 27:52 Tools for Managing Client Accounts 29:58 Navigating Market Volatility 33:06 Ideal Clients: Tech Executives with Stock Grants 36:16 Building a Referral-Based Business 39:02 Developing Rapport with Clients 44:16 Alternative Investments and Non-Liquid Markets 45:55 Podcast Thumbnail.mp4 Connect with Alex on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexgoldstein95/ Learn about Chesapeake Asset Management: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chesapeake-asset-management-llc2/ Want to be a guest on the podcast? go.ifamktg.com/podcast-booking

This episode explores the history of registered investment advisors (RIAs) and how the RIA industry has evolved over the years. It starts with the early 20th century when investment advice was given informally and without much regulation. The pivotal moment came in 1940 with the passing of the Investment Advisers Act, which required RIAs to register with the SEC and introduced the fiduciary standard. The rise of the RIA model in the 1950s and 60s, the challenges and opportunities in the 80s and 90s, the disruption caused by robo advisors, and the impact of the 2008 financial crisis are also discussed. The episode concludes with the current state of the RIA industry, with RIAs known for their fiduciary commitment and personalized approach to financial advice. 00:00 The Birth of Registered Investment Advisors: The Investment Advisers Act of 1940 02:05 The Rise of the RIA Model: Personalized Advice and Professional Designations 03:04 Challenges and Opportunities: The 80s and 90s 04:30 Disruption and Regulation: Robo Advisors and the 2008 Financial Crisis 05:57 The Current State of the RIA Industry: Fiduciary Commitment and Holistic Financial Planning get in touch: https://go.ifamktg.com/

In this conversation, Ryan interviews Peter Dizdar, a successful advisor at Palombo Wealth Management. Peter shares his journey from investment banking to wealth management and discusses how he is growing his firm to $1B AUM. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:28 Building Relationships and Cold Calling 07:08 The Benefits of Being Independent 12:47 Serving Labor Union Employees as a Niche 15:47 Growing a Wealth Management Practice 28:36 Marketing Challenges and Differentiation 30:36 Building Relationships and Providing Advanced Planning 33:59 Managing Money and Understanding Clients' Mindset 36:43 Adapting to Clients' Needs and Emotions 39:13 Open-Ended Questions and Client Conversations 43:40 Comprehensive Wealth Management Approach 47:24 Research, Education, and Newsletter 51:18 Networking and Business Growth 55:28 Succession Planning and Mergers/Acquisitions 58:32 Supporting Younger Advisors Connect with Peter on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-dizdar-7789145/

Mike Ross is a long-time financial advisor with a range of experiences in the business. He emphasizes the role of a financial advisor as the client's first call for anything financial, and believes in maintaining objectivity and being on call at all times. He has built a team of assistants and other staff members to support his practice. Mike focuses on enhancing the value of his business and acquiring new clients, particularly business owners pre and post-sale. He differentiates his company by providing honest and direct advice, and uses his website and books to communicate his approach to potential clients. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Role of a Financial Advisor 03:06 Getting Started in the Financial Advisory Business 03:57 Benefits of a tough market w/ no clients. 05:11 Team Management and Business Growth 07:33 Investing in the Business and Differentiation 09:29 Bringing in New Clients through Marketing 11:37 The Effectiveness of Hiring Coaches 13:34 Challenges in Running the Business 15:28 Differentiating the Company from Other Advisors 18:33 Client Profiles and New Client Acquisition 20:20 Inbound and Outbound Client Acquisition 23:12 The Role of Books in the Business 25:49 Contact Information and Conclusion 26:39 The Efficient Advisor Podcast (1920 x 1080 px) (1).mp4 How to find Mike: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-p-ross/