Wicked Pissah Podcast

What can 300 conversations teach you about becoming a better financial advisor? For the 300th episode of the Wicked Pissah Podcast, past and present hosts come together for a conversation about the ideas, people and experiences that have shaped the show and, in many cases, their own careers and practices. Michael Connaughton and Corey Christiana are joined by former hosts Chris Boyd, Brad Wright and Kathleen Keneally to look back at how a podcast that began as a way to extend the reach of FPA New England programming grew into 300 episodes of conversations with advisors, authors, industry leaders, technology companies and subject-matter experts. But this isn't simply a trip down memory lane. The group talks about something every advisor can relate to: How do you keep learning while you're busy actually running a practice and serving clients? Over the years, hosts have used questions coming directly from their own practices to find guests and topics. Those conversations have introduced them to new technology, planning strategies, marketing ideas and resources they could bring back to their firms and, sometimes, directly to their clients. You'll also hear how participating in the financial planning community can create opportunities you don't necessarily anticipate. Kathleen shares how stepping outside her comfort zone as an introvert led to four years of conversations with people she might never otherwise have had the opportunity to sit down with. The hosts reflect on career decisions, launching firms, learning from other practitioners and the value of seeing other advisors openly share how they approach the profession. And then there's the question of what happens next. The group looks ahead at AI, technology, video and the increasingly human side of financial advice, including a prediction that Wicked Pissah could eventually reach 1,000 episodes. Whether you've listened since the beginning or have never heard an episode, Episode 300 is a reminder that some of the best professional development doesn't come from having all the answers. It comes from knowing who to ask, staying curious and being willing to learn from other people in the profession. 300 episodes down. Only 700 to go.

What does it really take to leave an established firm and build a financial planning practice on your own terms? In this episode of the Wicked Pissah Podcast, Jackie Walsh, CFP®, founder of 30 Point Financial and Treasurer of FPA New England, sits down with Bridget Grimes, CFP®, President of WealthChoice and co-founder of Equita Financial Network. Bridget shares her journey from working as an employee at a fee-only RIA to launching WealthChoice nearly a decade ago. She explains why she wanted greater control over how she served clients, how she structured her business, and ultimately, how she valued her own work. But independence came with another realization: running your own firm can be lonely, and trying to handle financial planning, investments, compliance, technology, operations, marketing, and business development yourself can quickly become a barrier to growth. That experience ultimately helped inspire Equita Financial Network, a community of independent, women-led financial planning firms that provides advisors with shared resources while allowing them to maintain their own brands, clients, and vision. Jackie also shares her own experience as a newer firm founder and Equita member, including how access to a community of other women advisors has helped her navigate the early stages of building her practice. Bridget and Jackie discuss the importance of delegation, investing in your business before you feel completely ready, finding a community of advisors willing to share their experiences, and recognizing that independence does not have to mean doing everything yourself. They also explore the continued underrepresentation of women in financial planning and why mentorship, collaboration, and intentional succession planning could play an important role in bringing more women into the profession and helping existing women-led firms remain women-led. For advisors considering independence, building a firm, or simply looking for a stronger professional community, this conversation offers a candid look at both the opportunity and responsibility that come with owning your own practice. In this episode: Why Bridget left an established RIA to launch WealthChoice The realities of starting a financial planning firm with no clients Why community matters for independent advisors How Equita Financial Network grew from two advisors sharing resources Delegating compliance, investments, technology, and operations Why trying to save money by doing everything yourself can limit growth Supporting career changers and women entering financial planning Maintaining independence while gaining the advantages of scale The difference between being a business owner and being a W-2 advisor Creating succession opportunities for women-led advisory firms Why Bridget believes investing in yourself can change the trajectory of your firm About Bridget Grimes, CFP® Bridget Grimes is President of WealthChoice, a boutique financial life planning firm serving women executives, and co-founder of Equita Financial Network, a collaborative community supporting independent women-led financial planning firms. She is also a CFP Board Ambassador and author of Corner Office Choices: The Executive Woman's Guide to Financial Freedom. Her work centers on helping women gain greater confidence and control over their financial lives while supporting women advisors who want to build successful firms on their own terms.

Federal student loan planning has become increasingly complex, and for financial advisors, keeping up with changing repayment plans, forgiveness programs, eligibility rules, and deadlines can feel like a specialty all its own. In this episode of the Wicked Pissah Podcast, Jackie Walsh, CPA, CFP®, sits down with Emma Crawford, CFP®, CSLP®, founder of October Loan Strategies, a firm dedicated exclusively to helping borrowers navigate federal student loan repayment and forgiveness. Emma has consulted on more than $200 million in student loan debt and helped clients secure more than $10 million in forgiveness. Much of her work is done in collaboration with financial advisors who bring her in as a student loan specialist for their clients. Emma and Jackie discuss when an advisor may be able to handle student loan planning internally and when it makes sense to bring in specialized expertise. Six-figure loan balances, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, changing income-driven repayment options, uncertain forgiveness credit, and clients transitioning from the SAVE forbearance can all create planning questions that extend well beyond simply determining a monthly payment. They also challenge one of the most common assumptions about debt: that paying it off as quickly as possible is always the best financial decision. Emma explains why some borrowers may be better served pursuing forgiveness and directing available cash toward other financial priorities. For advisors, that means evaluating student loans within the context of the client's entire financial plan rather than treating the debt as an isolated problem. The conversation also explores the Certified Student Loan Professional designation, resources advisors can use to stay current, and how student loan specialists and financial planners can collaborate to provide more comprehensive advice. In this episode: When advisors should consider bringing in a student loan specialist How student loan planning fits into comprehensive financial planning Navigating income-driven repayment and forgiveness strategies Why paying student loans off faster isn't always the best answer Public Service Loan Forgiveness and forgiveness credit How repayment changes can affect a client's cash flow Evaluating student loans alongside other financial goals Resources advisors can use to stay current What the CSLP® designation involves How advisors can outsource student loan planning while remaining involved in the client relationship For advisors working with clients carrying federal student loan debt, this episode is a reminder that the right strategy isn't necessarily about eliminating debt as quickly as possible. It's about understanding the rules, evaluating the tradeoffs, and finding the strategy that best supports the client's bigger financial picture.

K. Dane Snowden, CEO of CFP Board Show Notes On this episode of the Wicked Pissah Podcast, Kevin Williams is joined by K Dane Snowden, Chief Executive Officer of the CFP Board to discuss the organization's priorities and the future of the financial planning profession.  Dane shares his vision for CFP Board, emphasizing the importance of raising public awareness of CFP professionals and increasing their value proposition. He highlights key priorities such as strengthening the value for current certificants, diversifying and growing the pipeline of new professionals, and improving the culture of the profession to be more inclusive.  Our conversation also covers the impact of AI on the profession, the need for financial literacy education, and the importance of partnerships with organizations like the FPA.  Dane expresses his goal of making financial planning accessible to everyone at every stage of life and discusses potential bold initiatives, such as aligning with the College Football Playoff's use of "CFP."  Get ready to learn what lies ahead for both CFP Board and our profession on this episode of the Wicked Pissah Podcast. https://www.cfp.net/about-cfp-board/leadership-and-staff/k-dane-snowden https://www.linkedin.com/in/danesnowden/ #CFPBoard #FinancialPlanning #CFP #WickedPissahPodcast #FinServ  

Host Chris Boyd is joined by Russ Ball and Luke Bagley for a conversation about one of the biggest financial risks facing retirees: the rising cost of long-term care. Long-term care can have a significant impact on retirement savings, but deciding how to prepare for those expenses is not always straightforward. Chris, Russ, and Luke break down the options families should understand and the financial considerations that can help shape a long-term care strategy. They discuss: · The growing cost of long-term care and its potential impact on retirement. · How traditional long-term care insurance works, including qualification requirements, benefit triggers, elimination periods, premium increases, and inflation protection. · The pros and cons of hybrid life insurance and annuity-based long-term care solutions. · When self-funding long-term care expenses may make sense. · How long-term care planning can help protect retirement assets and preserve a financial legacy. And much more. Whether you are preparing for retirement, already retired, or helping aging parents make financial decisions, this conversation highlights why long-term care deserves a place in the retirement planning process. #LongTermCare #RetirementPlanning #FinancialPlanning #WealthManagement #EstatePlanning #RiskManagement #RetirementStrategy #LegacyPlanning

Paul Gaudio Host Michael Connaughton is joined by Paul Gaudio.   Paul is a CFP® and Wealth Planner at Crestwood Advisors with 9 years of experience helping individuals and families make smart choices with their money. Paul is passionate about guiding clients through life's financial complexities with clarity and care. He also serves as the President of NexGen for FPA New England, where he supports the growth and development of emerging professionals in the financial planning community, and works to expand the efforts of the Financial Planning Association through networking events and webinars.   They discuss: ·      Paul's background and career journey. ·      Tips for those entering or early in the financial planning career path. ·      His work in the NexGen Committee and upcoming events.   And much more.   Contact Paul: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-gaudio-cfp%C2%AE-a5787aa6/ Email: [email protected]  

Host Michael Connaughton is joined by Robert Michaud, Co-Founder and Chief Investment Officer of New Frontier. Robert Michaud is co-founder and Chief Investment Officer of New Frontier Advisors, LLC. He brings over 25 years of financial innovations and investment management experience to serve the needs of financial advisors and institutional clients for optimal financial outcomes with four U.S. patents in portfolio optimization and rebalancing technology.  We discuss: Origins & Optimization: Robert shares his journey in quant finance and explains how Monte Carlo resampling fixes classical Markowitz theory's reliance on "perfect foresight". ETFs, Taxes, & Direct Indexing: Covers New Frontier's early ETF strategist models, comparing ETF efficiency to direct indexing while emphasizing risk management over short-term tax alpha. Crypto, Active Management, & Goals: Highlights targeted active strategies in fixed income, evaluating crypto and gold strictly for diversification, and aligning portfolios with personal client goals.   More on Robert and New Frontier https://www.newfrontieradvisors.com/   Jeffrey Megar, CFA Client Portfolio Solutions | New Frontier Advisors, LLC P (617) 648-3906 | M (617) 939-4526 E [email protected]

How will financial advisors grow their businesses in a digital-first world?   In this episode of the Wicked Pissah Podcast, Chris Boyd is joined by Ian Karnell, co-founder of Vast Advisor, to break down how AI is transforming advisor marketing and client acquisition. This conversation goes beyond productivity tools and dives into how advisors can build scalable growth systems that align with how today's clients actually search for advice.   If you've ever wondered whether referrals alone are enough—or how to adapt your strategy for the next generation of investors—this episode offers a fresh perspective. In this episode, we discuss: Why traditional referral-based growth may not scale The growing influence of digital-first client behavior How AI can help advisors define and target ideal clients The concept of a repeatable "growth engine" for advisory firms Balancing innovation with compliance in a regulated industry What the next generation of advisors is doing differently Whether you're an independent advisor or part of a growing firm, this conversation will help you rethink how you approach growth in a rapidly evolving landscape.   Subscribe for more conversations on financial planning, markets, and the future of advice.   Vast Advisor website: VastAdvisor | AI Client Acquisition for Wealth Managers & RIAs Vast Advisor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vastadvisor Ian's LinkedIn: Ian J. Karnell | LinkedIn Chris's LinkedIn: J. Christopher Boyd | LinkedIn   #FinancialAdvisors #WealthManagement #RIA #AdvisorGrowth #PracticeManagement #AIinBusiness #FinancialPlanning #Leadership  

In this episode of Something More with Chris Boyd, Chris Boyd and Russ Ball are joined by Social Security expert Marcia Mantell to unpack the latest Trustees Report and its implications. With projections pointing to a potential shortfall by 2032, they explore what's driving the change—and what it could mean for your future benefits.   Marcia shares insights from decades of experience helping retirees navigate Social Security decisions and explains why some of the most common reactions—like claiming early—may do more harm than good.   Learn more about Marcia Mantell and her work: Marcia's website: https://mantellretirementconsulting.com/ Marcia's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marciamantell/   Explore policy insights and planning tools: Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget: https://www.crfb.org/   Connect with the hosts: Chris's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-christopher-boyd-b932169/ Russ's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russ-ball-3058b5160/   In this episode, we discuss: What the 2026 Social Security Trustees Report actually says Why the projected shortfall timeline has moved closer Common misconceptions about claiming benefits early Potential policy solutions on the table How to plan for uncertainty in retirement income If you found this helpful, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with someone who's thinking about retirement. #RetirementPlanning #SocialSecurity #FinancialAdvising #WealthManagement #FinancialPlanning #PolicyInsights #AdvisorPerspective  

Our guest on today's episode is Jeff Juracka, Senior Account Executive at YCharts. Jeff has been building and leading his team at YCharts for the past six years. He's a graduate of Loyola University of Chicago and is a former rugby player, who also studied - YCharts was founded in 2009 to democratize investment research. They are an all-in-one platform for investment research and client communication, with tools that are easy to use, and data that is reliable and timely. They discuss: -The current state of FinTech -Why visual presentations matter -Charts advisors gravitate towards Contact YCharts: https://ycharts.com/  

Nobody plans for the call—but sooner or later, it comes. In this episode of the Wicked Pissah Podcast, Chris Boyd sits down with award-winning financial journalist and author Beth Pinsker  to talk about the moment everything shifts—when you go from "concerned family member" to full-on financial caregiver. Drawing from her book My Mother's Money, Beth shares the early warning signs families often overlook, why having the "right" documents doesn't always mean you're actually prepared, and how quickly the emotional and financial weight can hit. As Beth puts it: "Financial red flags come first… handling money is a complicated higher function." This is a real-world conversation about what advisors need to understand—and what families wish they knew sooner. If your clients have aging parents (and they do), this episode isn't optional—it's essential listening. Find out more- https://bethpinsker.com

Longevity Planning with Eliot Weissberg Hosts Brad and Cory speak with Eliot Weissberg of The Investors Center Our guest on this episode is Eliot Weissberg. Eliot is President of The Investors Center, a financial planning and longevity planning practice. Their goal is to guide people to discover and leverage their capacity to age confidently, in part by utilizing "TimeLining" which Eliot created and trademarked in 2009. Eliot is a CFP and a CAPS (Certified Aging in Place Specialist). He is a member of the National Aging In Place Council (NAIPC) and the MIT AgeLab They discuss:  What a Certified Aging in Place Specialist is  Longevity planning and how it can help grow your business  How to implement an investment strategy to compliment longevity, and to what age Contact Eliot: www.theinvestorscenter.com     Eliot Weissberg, CFP®, CAPS is a Branch Manager with Raymond James Financial Services and President of The Investors Center. He can be reached at 860-677-8808 / 70 E Main St. Ste 5, Avon CT, 06001. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA / SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James  Financial Services Advisors, Inc. The Investors Center is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

In this episode, Kathleen speaks with Stevyn Guinnip, founder and CEO of Grow Wellthy. Stevyn is a certified wellness coach and exercise physiologist who helps financial advisors approach their health with the same intentionality they bring to financial planning. Stevyn's path to this work is anything but ordinary: she grew up as the daughter of a financial advisor and watched many of his clients retire, only to lose their health before they could enjoy their retirement. After surviving a near-death experience, Stevyn went back to the research to rethink what true health actually means. Stevyn explores what it looks like to treat your health as a core asset, how "health debt" accumulates quietly over time, and why the concept of health span versus sick span may be one of the most valuable frameworks advisors can bring into client conversations. Stevyn makes a compelling case that advisors who aren't asking health-related questions are missing a wildcard that could derail an entire financial plan. This conversation is a timely reminder that the same discipline and care you bring to your clients' financial lives should extend to your own health as well. https://www.growwellthy.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevyn-guinnip/ https://growwellthybook.com/  

Andrea Schlapia: Founder and CEO of Ironstone Business Coaching Hosts Michael Connaughton and Kathleen Kenealy are joined by Andrea Schlapia Founder and CEO of Ironstone Business Coaching. Andrea Schlapia began her career in banking, then rose through the ranks of global investment firms like Dreyfus, Prudential, and Deutsche Bank. In 2008, she launched Ironstone, which specializes in helping financial advisors. Andrea is the go-to practice management expert for independent financial advisory firms. She is the founder of Ironstone and creator of Ironstone's Fundamental 4™ blueprint, a system that guides financial advisory professionals and their teams to grow purposefully, operate efficiently, and leave the next generation with a wealth of knowledge to continue the business legacy. We discuss:  Best practices around hiring and organizational structure  Ways to "delegate and elevate"  Defining your firm values And much more More on Andrea and Ironstone Website LinkedIn Profile

Hello and welcome to this episode of the Wicked Pissah Podcast. I'm Michael Connaughton co-founder of Lead Advisor and I serve on the Partnerships committee of the New England FPA and co-hosting with me today is Amy Mohan fellow chapter member and Certified Financial Planner with Daniel J Galli and Associates. Joining us today is Michael Barrasso. Michael Barrasso is the Co-Founder and CEO of WealthReach, an AI- powered growth platform built for financial advisors and wealth management firms. The company helps firms modernize organic growth through tools designed to improve visibility, support personalized outreach, and turn demand into conversations. Michael also leads business development at his family's RIA. Since joining the firm three years ago, its AUM has nearly doubled to close to $400M, all organically. WealthReach is the product of taking the strategies that have worked at his own firm and building a system for other firms to do the same.

Ankit Dhawan-Partnerships at Blue J Hosts Michael Connaughton and Kevin Williams are joined by Ankit Dhawan Ankit is Partnerships Manager at Blue J. Blue J is one of the New England FPA's newest partners and he shares details around:  How advisors and tax professionals are leveraging Blue J for tax research  Ways to utilize the tool  How Blue J's AI is used to create time savings for advisors and add value to their clients. And much more. Blue J's website: https://www.bluej.com/ Ankit's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ankit-dhawan/ As a FPA New England member, you can start using Blue J at an exclusive discounted price. For more details, please visit your member portal.

Hidden Assets, Red Flags, and the Truth in the Numbers – with Sara Nanchanatt, CPA/CFF   On this episode, I talk with Sara Nanchanatt, founder of SN Forensics, about her path into forensic accounting—from an uninspiring audit internship to a transformative Peace Corps experience that ultimately led her to a field blending accounting, law, data analytics, and investigative work. We discuss her move from corporate roles to launching her own firm, and how she built a consulting practice while still working full-time. We also dig into the practical side of forensic accounting, including using AI tools to turn financial documents into analyzable data, staying flexible as investigations evolve, and the importance of maintaining neutrality as an advocate for the truth. Sara also highlights the prevalence of fraud in certain communities, the importance of financial transparency, and red flags financial planners should watch for—especially when working with clients navigating divorce. What's it time for? https://www.snforensics.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarananchanatt/  

Kathleen and Amy speak with Dr. Jay Zigmont, PhD, CFP®, founder of Child Free Wealth and Child Free Trust, a fiduciary solution built specifically for the growing population of adults without children. Dr. Zigmont is on a mission to address what he calls the "fiduciary void" for the roughly 25% of U.S. adults who are child-free yet are still served by an industry that typically assumes every client has (or will have) kids. Jay shares his personal path from healthcare leadership and academia to financial planning, and what he discovered while earning his CFP®: the standard planning "life script" is baked into the education, tools, and assumptions of our profession. That insight led him to research child-free households, write books on the topic, and ultimately build a planning model aligned with child-free client goals—including a flat annual fee structure designed to eliminate conflicts that can arise when clients want to intentionally spend down assets. We discuss: Why traditional AUM pricing can clash with "Die With Zero" goals How Jay uses a "Die With Zero Safety Net" approach, including long-term care planning, delayed Social Security, and a lower Monte Carlo target paired with ongoing adjustments The estate planning reality for child-free adults—why many don't have documents in place, and how the system assumes a next-of-kin safety net How Child Free Trust works as a nationwide backstop for medical and financial decision-making (POA, executor, trustee), coordinated with care teams and 24/7 support Why long-term care planning is a fiduciary responsibility for every advisor—especially for solo agers—and how clients weigh self-insuring vs. standalone coverage This episode is a practical, thought-provoking look at how our planning process, tools, and business models may need to evolve to better serve a large (and growing) segment of clients—particularly those navigating retirement and aging without children. https://childfreewealth.com/ https://childfreetrust.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayzigmont/  

Hosts Brad and Kevin speak with Cozy Wittman of College Inside Track. Our guest on this episode is Cozy Wittman. As Education and Partnership leader at College Inside Track, Cozy speaks nationally about college search, educating families and training financial advisors and other professionals who work with families with high schoolers. Cozy is passionate about dispelling myths around how colleges accept students and how they price their product. She has been featured in The Journal of Financial Planning on the subject of college planning. And she's a mom of 5 kids, who all had different goals for college!      They discuss: The difference between acceptance, deferral, and waitlist Appealing financial aid offers, and getting your "paying for college" plan in place Whether it's worth the time to search for multiple smaller scholarships   Contact Cozy and College Inside Track: www.collegeinsidetrack.com

"AI's Impact on Advisory Practice Business Transactions" On this episode of the Wicked Pissah Podcast, we are joined by Brian Goodhart, Director of Capstone Strategic's M&A Advisory Services Practice.  Artificial Intelligence is increasingly impacting Advisory Practices, and its impact on potential business transactions is not immune to this quickly changing landscape.  Brian shares with us his tremendous background and experience with Advisory Practice transactions, how AI has changed the landscape of due diligence and target acquisition for Advisory Practices, and what we can do to be prepared to buy or sell a business.      Get ready to learn and enjoy this episode of the Wicked Pissah Podcast.  

"Looking Ahead to 2026 and What FPA of New England Has Instore" On this episode of the Wicked Pissah Podcast, we are joined by Sam Gough, 2026 Chair, Abe Ringer, 2026 President, and Kathleen Kenealy, 2026 President-elect, to discuss what the Financial Planning Association of New England has been up to and MORE IMPORTANTLY what they have instore and are focusing on for 2026.       Get ready to learn and enjoy this episode of the Wicked Pissah Podcast.  

Kathleen and Amy speak with Dr. Preston Cherry, CFP®, AFC®, CFT®, a nationally recognized financial therapist and behavioral finance expert. Dr. Cherry is founder and CEO of Concurrent Financial Planning and Director of the Financial Planning Program at University of Wisconsin, Green Bay, and recently received the Heart of Financial Planning Award for his complete body of work. We discuss Dr. Cherry's journey from bank teller to PhD, his philosophy that life and money work together as partners. He shares how asking better questions (and pausing long enough to hear the answer) can completely change the financial planning process. We talk about the hidden budget item of supporting adult children while caring for aging parents, what clients come to us for versus what they actually need, the important distinction between financial therapy and clinical therapy, and his Five Permissions of Wealth framework from his book Wealth and the Key of Life that helps clients pursue their goals without guilt and shame. This episode is a thoughtful reminder that great financial planning isn't just about numbers—it's about aligning wealth with well-being and helping people find true financial harmony. https://www.concurrentfp.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/drprestoncherry/ https://www.amazon.com/Wealth-Key-Life-Finding-Financial/dp/1394268661  

Donna McKeown Host Michael Connaughton is joined by Donna McKeown Donna is the Financial Planning Association of New England's longest partner and is a team lead and loan officer at Movement Mortgage.   They discuss: Interest rate environment and factors to consider Tips for first time homebuyers Non-traditional mortgage products   And much more.   Contact Donna: Website: mortgagesbydonna.com  Phone: 781 775 7172 Email: [email protected]    

Host Brad Wright is joined by Mike Gibbs, Managing Director and Lead Portfolio Manager at Gibbs Capital Management Mike is responsible for the Gibbs Portfolios offered by his group as well as the U.S. equity sector research and recommendations. He also serves on the Raymond James Investment Strategy Committee. Gibbs Capital Management is a division of Eagle Asset Management and owned by Raymond James Investment Management. They discuss: -The benefits of dividend investing for both retirees and clients still in the accumulation phase -Mike's new ETF offering, RJDI Gibbs Capital Management Websites: https://www.eagleasset.com/gibbs-capital-management https://www.rjetfs.com/investment-strategies/rjdi (for the ETF) Contact: Chad Stone at [email protected] -For more info on RJDI or the SMA -To begin receiving Mike's Weekly Market Guide

Wicked Pissah Podcast Hosts Appear on FPA-Live Hosts Kathleen, Mike and Brad appear on FPA-Live with Ben Lewis. They discuss: -Creating and sustaining a podcast for more than 250 episodes -How having multiple hosts can be beneficial -The technology involved in recording and coordinating the podcast Websites: FPA: https://www.financialplanningassociation.org/about FPA-NE: https://www.financialplanningassociation.org/chapter/fpa-new-england

In this episode of the Wicked PISSAH Podcast, Kevin Williams is joined by Matt Talcoff, tax partner and leader of RSM US LLP's Washington National Tax Practice, to break down the much-discussed "One Big Beautiful Bill." Matt explains why the legislation was passed, what would have happened if it hadn't, and how it impacts individuals, business owners, and wealth advisors alike. The conversation covers key tax provisions, planning opportunities, what changed (and what didn't), and why proactive modeling and advisor collaboration are more important than ever. A must-listen for advisors navigating year-end planning and beyond.

Host Michael Connaughton is joined by Tim Ludy Tim Ludy is the founder of GrowthDuck Digital Marketing, a Massachusetts-based agency that helps local small businesses grow through tailored marketing strategies. With over 15 years of experience in content and digital marketing, Tim has worked with countless businesses to improve how they communicate and get found online. He holds certifications in inbound marketing, SEO, advertising, and graphic design, and his work has been featured by Forbes, HubSpot, and TechTarget. They discuss: -Digital marketing tools and strategies -How to differentiate your marketing from the crowd -The importance of a multimedia approach And much more. Contact Tim: Website: GrowthDuckMarketing.com  

Host Kevin Williams is joined by Patrick J. Nagado, ChFC, retirement income strategist and author of The Canoe and the Current. Patrick has worked in the financial services industry since 1997, beginning his career in life insurance and financial services before moving into investment management, wholesaling, and leadership roles. Over the years, he built experience across RIAs, insurance carriers, and management positions before returning to personal financial planning—where he now specializes in retirement income strategies.  Patrick is the author of The Canoe and the Current, a retirement metaphor designed to help clients understand how to build reliable lifetime income ("the canoe") and confidently navigate market participation ("the current"). His approach focuses on clarity, human-centered planning, and helping clients transition from fear and uncertainty to confidence and purpose.  Patrick Nagado & The Canoe and the Current Website: https://canoeandcurrent.com LinkedIn: Patrick Nagato Book: The Canoe and the Current (available on Amazon)  

Private Equity Investing with Rob Hatch of Constitution Capital Partners Host Brad Wright is joined by Rob Hatch, Managing Partner of Constitution Capital Partners. Rob was one of the founding partners of Constitution Capital. Prior to joining Constitution Capital, he was an Investment Director at Standard Life Investments Private Equity USA. Previously, Rob worked at Argo Global Capital. He began his career in the investment banking group of State Street Corporation. Rob earned his MBA from The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth and his undergraduate degree from Harvard University in Applied Mathematics and Statistics. He is a CFA charter holder.   They discuss: Private Equity and Credit How to source potential companies to invest in The difference between Co-Investing and a Secondary Investment The possibility of private equity as a 401(k) investment option   Constitution Capital Partners   Website: https://ccaf.com/ Contact: Josh Gilbert, [email protected] ·      For more info ·      To be invited to their quarterly webinars        

The Heart of Financial Planning Award Winner Liz Menjivar Hosts Brad Wright and Michael Connaughton are joined by Heart of Financial Planning award winner Liz Menjivar Liz is a financial consultant at Fidelity Investments and president of the FPA of Illinois chapter. At Fidelity, she serves as Regional Co-chair of SOHL (Support and Outreach for Hispanics and Latinx) employees. She is a past member of the boards of Arden Shore Family Services and the Chicago Financial Women Association (CFW). Liz is also a recipient (along with Preston Cherry) of the 2025 Heart of Financial Planning Award. They discuss: -How Liz became involved with financial planning, and why she stays -Why mentoring is such a big part of her life -How she found out she won the Heart of Financial Planning award Lizbeth Menjivar: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizbethgmenjivar/

Hosts Michael Connaughton and Kathleen Keneally are joined by Tim Fogarty Tim has led Dime Bank's Wealth Management business line as Vice President, Senior Trust Officer since 2021. Tim is responsible for the Bank's comprehensive trusts and estate planning, investment advisory, and non-profit services to benefit the local community. Tim has over a decade of experience in financial services and has held various insurance and investment licenses over the years. He attained his Certified Trust and Financial Advisor designation from the American Bankers Association in 2020. He also received the 2023 New Leaders in Banking Award from the Connecticut Bankers Association. Tim holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Providence College and a Juris Doctor degree, cum laude, from Roger Williams University School of Law. He is a member of the Connecticut, Massachusetts, and American Bar Associations. They discuss: -The needs for trust and estate planning -How Corporate Trustees serve their clients -Dime's collaboration with professional advisors And much more. Dime Bank's Trust Services: Website: https://www.dime-bank.com/wealth-management Phone: (860) 859-4300

Blockchain and Smart Contracts in Estate Planning with F. Keats Boyd III Hosts Brad Wright and Michael Connaughton are joined by Attorney F. Keats Boyd III Keats is President of Boyd & Boyd, P.C. in Hyannis, MA, where he concentrates his practice in the areas of Estate, Trust & Retirement Planning. He is also working to streamline estate planning by utilizing Blockchain, Smart Contract and NFT technology. They discuss: -What Blockchain, Smart Contracts, and NFTs are -How they can be used to make estate settlement more efficient -The security and privacy questions surrounding the technology -Whether Keats, who is admitted to argue in front of the Supreme Court, has ever done so F. Keats Boyd III Website: https://www.boydandboydpc.com/

In this episode of the Wicked Pissah Podcast, hosts Chris Boyd and Jeff Perry sit down with Paul Brahim, CFP®, CEPA®- Managing Director at Wealth Enhancement Group and President of the Financial Planning Association. Paul shares his inspiring journey from pharmaceutical sales to financial leadership, offering insights on succession planning, title protection, and the future of financial planning. He also reflects on lessons from his 30-year career, the importance of purpose, and how advisors can help business owners create lasting, multi-generational wealth.

Hosts Michael Connaughton and Kevin Williams are joined by Annalee Kruger. Annalee started Care Right Inc, a VIRTUAL consultancy, in 2011, after working in Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC's) for 22 years. Families were constantly blind-sided and ill-prepared for medical crisis (strokes, dementia progression, urinary tract infections, etc.) and were thrust into making major care decisions on behalf of aging parents. Families had no idea how to navigate senior care, dementia, changing roles within the family, how to manage their own lives plus new needs of aging parents, and they also had no idea what their aging parents had in order. She is a national speaker on aging, caregiving, dementia, family dynamics/mediation, and end-of- life. Major financial services conferences she has presented at: IWI, FPA, NAPA, NAIFA, AICPA, CIMA, Truist, D.A. Davidson, and many other conferences in the healthcare/senior care industry. She authored, The Invisible Patient: The Emotional, Financial, and Physical Toll on Family Caregivers. Annalee also offers training packages for the financial services and healthcare industries—which include in-person, webinar, and masterminds. Annalee also created the Elder Planning Specialist certification program, specifically for CFP's who want to earn a certificate to better identify and address the needs of their aging book of business. They discuss:  Caregiving options and the challenges  Creating an Ageing plan  Navigating family crisis And much more. Care Right Inc.'s website: https://carerightinc.com/ Annalee's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annaleekruger/ Her book, The Invisible Patient: the Emotional, Financial, and Physical Toll on Family Caregivers - https://www.invisiblepatientbook.com/  

The Referable Client Experience with Stacey Brown Randall Hosts Brad Wright and Kevin Williams are joined by Author and Business owner Stacey Brown Randall. Stacey teaches small business owners, solopreneurs and sales professionals how to generate referrals without asking, without manipulation or feeling inauthentic. She's the author of Generating Business Referrals Without Asking, and now a second book, The Referable Client Experience, hosts the Roadmap To Referrals podcast– and has been featured on Fox Business, Forbes and in Investor's Business Daily. Her online programs, Your Next Five Referrals, and Building a Referrable Business, among others, have turned beginners into Referral Ninja Masters… and we're going to find out how… They discuss:  Beginning with failure and the "a-ha" moment  Why consistent referrals are not happening despite doing excellent work  The science-based approach to referrals  Why wording matters Stacey Brown Randall: Website: https://staceybrownrandall.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceybrandall/ Buy the book: https://www.amazon.com/Referable-Client-Experience-Generate- Referrals/dp/1774585936

Passwords, Privacy and Peace of Mind: Wrangling Your Digitals Assets with Kate Hufnagel Kathleen and Michael speak with Kate Hufnagle, The Digital Wrangler, to explore the often-overlooked world of digital estate planning. Kate shares how organizing passwords, accounts, and important life details can ease the burden on loved ones, save money, and create true peace of mind. We talk about different types of digital assets, including ones that are often overlooked; best practices for handling usernames and passwords; how Kate works with individuals to help them wrangle their digital assets; and more! Tune in for simple, practical steps to bring more clarity and organization to your digital life. https://www.thedigitalwrangler.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-hufnagel/  

First Things First: Becoming Fearless and Financially Savvy with Valerie Rivera   Kathleen and Kevin speak with the founder of FirstGen Wealth, Valerie Rivera, CFP®. Valerie is a First in her family – the first to go to college, the first to break barriers at work, and the first to earn more than her parents ever did. Now she's working with other first generation wealth builders to help them create lasting financial confidence and legacy.    We discuss what led Valerie to start her own practice, how working with first generation clients is different than working with high-net-worth retirees, how Valerie helps her clients with generational wealth planning (just not in the way you think), and her tips for young planners who are looking to network with other professionals.    https://1genwealth.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-rivera-cfp/  

Inside the Pissah Studio – with Brad, Kathleen, Michael and Kevin  In this special episode, the four Wicked Pissah Podcast cohosts turn the microphones on themselves! Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how the show comes together. No guests this time, just us sharing why we love doing the podcast, our favorite episodes and moments, and what we've learned along the way. We don't want to keep all the fun to ourselves, so we're putting out the call: we'd love to bring a few new voices to our hosting team. If you've ever thought, "Wow, this is the best podcast ever, I'd love to be involved!" then this is the perfect episode for you. To learn more about joining the Wicked Pissah team or to submit an episode suggestion, please contact Brad Wright: [email protected]

Finding Financial Clarity Using Monarch Money with Rachel Lawrence, CFP® Kathleen and Brad speak with Monarch Money's Head of Advice and Planning, Rachel Lawrence, CFP®. With more than 20 years of experience working both directly with clients as a financial planner and as a consultant in the FinTech space, Rachel brings unique perspective and insight into what both advisors and individuals need from financial technology.  We talk with Rachel about how her passion for delivering financial advice to the masses has influenced her professional career path; how the demise of popular budgeting tool Mint changed the trajectory of Monarch Money; the different ways individuals can use Monarch Money to track their spending, create budgets, or work towards goals; how Monarch addresses the challenges of working with data aggregators; how advisors can best use Monarch Money in their practice to help clients align their spending with their values; and more! https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelsanborn/ https://www.monarchmoney.com/ https://www.monarchmoney.com/connection-status  

Risk Management with Scott Heinila, CEO of Optimized Insurance Hosts Brad Wright and Michael Connaughton are joined by Optimized Insurance CEO, Scott Heinila. After graduating from California State University Long Beach (CSULB) with a Finance degree, Scott began his insurance career in 2001, dedicating his time to assisting Insurance Professionals and Financial Advisors within the three facets of Protective Portfolio Planning – annuities, life insurance, and long-term care insurance. He's an expert in the industry with 20+ years of experience, Scott has led roles such as the Director of Sales for a growing FMO, Regional Vice President with a leading fixed and indexed annuity insurance company, and most recently, the Executive Director for Producers Choice Network. In his current role, Scott is the CEO and Co-Founder of Optimized Insurance Planning, a wholesale insurance planning and marketing firm. He is also the President and Founder of Prism Wealth Preservation, a professional financial & insurance services firm specializing in working with pre-retirees, retirees, and business owners. Scott is also the host of the Optimized Advisor Podcast, dedicated to enhancing the professions, best practices, and personal well-being of Advisors. They discuss:  Approaching risk management via annuities, life, and long-term care insurance  Common advisor obstacles to utilizing each  Resources for both advisors and clients Optimized Insurance: https://optimizedins.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/https-www.linkedin.com-company-optimized- insurance-planning-/ For more information, contact Bill Bonk: [email protected]  

Stephen Schweich Host Michael Connaughton is joined by Stephen Schweich. Stephen is Chairman of the Cherrystone Angel Group and held a 30 year career in Investment Banking. Stephen has been an active investor in venture capital and private companies in Europe and the USA for nearly 20 years and has served on the boards of numerous technology companies. Since joining Cherrystone in 2011, Stephen has a played a key role in sourcing and leading investments in several of Cherrystone's portfolio companies.   They discuss: Stephen's background and experience. Angel Group investing due diligence. Angel investing time horizon and expectations. And much more. Learn more about the Cherrystone Angel Group: Website: https://www.cherrystoneangelgroup.com/

Paw-sitive Planning: Estate Planning for Your Pets – with Liza Connelly   Kathleen speaks with Liza Connelly, director of trust and estate services for CIBC Private Wealth. Liza has more than 25 years of trust, estate and fiduciary experience, but this isn't your usual conversation about estate planning – we talk about estate planning for your pets! We discuss the different options that are available if you would like to provide for your pets after you pass away; best practices for planning ahead for unexpected emergencies, including what you might want to include in your durable power of attorney; how Liza helped get a pet trust statute passed in Massachusetts; her tips for shopping for pet insurance; and more!  https://www.linkedin.com/in/liza-connelly-1891006/ https://www.professorbeyer.com/Articles/Animals.html

From Confused to Confident: Helping Families Navigate Aging with Parker Polidor Kathleen and Kevin speak with Parker Polidor, co-founder of CareAlly. CareAlly is a turnkey software solution that financial advisors can use to help clients and families navigate the financial and health related questions brought on by aging. We talk with Parker about the cost of the "sandwich generation tax," ideas for initiating conversations about caregiving, tools and resources available through the CareAlly platform, and much more. If you have clients that are getting older, or clients whose loved ones are getting older, then this is an episode you won't want to miss. For more information: [email protected]

Kathleen and Brad speak with freelance journalist, keynote speaker, and nutrition educator Reyna Gobel. Reyna is a nationally recognized expert in college funding, student loans, and financial wellness who brings a unique background in journalism, education and nutrition to conversations about money, health and long-term wellbeing. We hear from Reyna about how she went from journalism to getting a master's degree in public health in nutrition; how financial advisors are well positioned to discuss the impact of nutrition on health care and life care planning; and the work she does creating custom wellness and personal finance educational programming and workshops for businesses and nonprofits. Reyna also shares her tips for how financial planners can best collaborate  with media sources.  For More Information: https://reynagobel.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/reynagobel/ https://walletsandwaistlines.com/

5 to 9 Things You Don't Know About 529 Plans with Chris Stack Hosts Brad Wright and Kevin Williams are joined by attorney and consultant, Chris Stack. -Chris is managing consultant, Savingforcollege.com, is a nationally recognized 529 authority and experienced in educational finance. An attorney for over 30 years, licensed in New York & Pennsylvania, Chris has experience in finance, investments and law relating to tax advantaged products, including Section 529, since it became federal law in 1996. - He has been credited for actively and successfully initiating, advocating and assisting in the 2022 federal tax law changes allowing for "leftover" 529 funds to be transferred to a Roth IRA. He's also assisted several states and plan managers implementing their 529 investment plans that now service over $20B in assets. -Currently, Chris advises and consults with sponsoring state agencies, program managers and investment companies, and presents nationally to financial advisors, accountants, and attorneys on 529 plans. They discuss: -The effects of the Big Beautiful Bill on 529 plans -How to choose the right 529 plan -Rules around converting leftover 529 funds to a Roth IRA -Why 529 accounts should be considered as part of any estate plan For more on Saving For College: Savingforcollege.com To contact Chris: [email protected]

Breaking Money Silence with Kathleen Burns Kingsbury   Kathleen and Kevin speak with money psychology expert Kathleen Burns Kingsbury. Kathleen is the founder of KBK Wealth Connection and a leading voice on women and money and breaking through emotional barriers that get in the way of productive money conversations. We discuss the importance of open financial conversations, gender differences in money attitudes, and strategies advisors can use to financially empower their female clients. We also talk about building negotiation confidence, the importance of male involvement in empowering women in financial advising and leadership roles, and the coaching work KBK does with women in finance and women in business to help them take their careers to the next level.   Learn more about KBK Wealth Connection Connect with KBK on LinkedIn Check out Breaking Money Silence: How to Shatter Money Taboos, Talk More Openly about Finances and Live a Richer Life Download the Assessment Is Your Firm Ready to Serve the New Face of Wealth

Navigating Egos and Emotions During the College Planning Process – With Jack Wang   Hosts Kathleen Kenealy and Michael Connaughton speak with Jack Wang, a nationally recognized college funding expert who helps families answer two critical questions: how to lower the cost of college and how to pay for it without derailing their financial future. Tune in to hear us talk about what the NFL draft has to do with the financial aid system; common misconceptions parents and students have about paying for college; why the phrase " you can borrow for college but you can't borrow for retirement" drives Jack bananas; and creative ways families can save and pay for college that don't involve selling a kidney. https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejackwang/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/smart-college-buyer/id1800378410 [email protected]

The Human Side of Wealth: Navigating Family Dynamics – with Emily Bouchard Kathleen and Brad speak with Emily Bouchard, founder of Bouchard Bespoke Consulting.  Emily is a Chief Learning Officer and Family Dynamics Advisor for Family Offices and Financial Advisory Firms, working alongside financial advisors, estate attorneys, and family offices to address the human side of money. We speak with Emily about her role as a listening coach and how she works with families to help them better communicate with full transparency and the steps she takes to help them assess, rebuild and sustain trust across all family members. We also talk about the importance of educating and preparing beneficiaries for the roles and responsibilities they will take on within the context of their family's wealth. We learn what a "purposeful prenup" is, tips on how to navigate the fair versus equal debate, and different assessments advisors can think about implementing in their practice to help deepen conversations they're having with families.  If you've ever found yourself navigating tricky family dynamics in a client relationship this is a conversation you won't want to miss. www.EmilyBouchard.com

Bringing the Human Element Back to Human Resources – with Angela Sarver Hosts Kathleen Kenealy and Kevin Williams are joined by Angela Sarver, founder of EllieBlu HR Consulting. Angela is a human resources expert who specializes in consulting with independent financial advisors.  Angela is on a mission to bring the human element back to the workplace by helping business owners lead their teams more intentionally. We discuss all the different ways that Angela supports the firms she works with, including how she helps her clients through all phases of employee recruitment and how she uses her own assessment tool to help business owners identify their hiring needs. We also talk about ways to assess candidates' skills and behaviors through structured interviews and case studies during the hiring process; the importance of establishing strong HR foundations early on to prevent potential future problems; and tips that firm leaders can use to shape their company's culture and success while managing their teams effectively. https://elliebluhr.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-sarver/ [email protected]

Host Brad Wright is joined by Jackie Cummings Koski. Jackie is the author of FIRE for Dummies and co-host of the Catching Up to FI podcast, focused on financial independence for late starters. She serves as Chapter President of FPA Southwestern Ohio and is a passionate advocate for financial literacy and education. With a master's degree in financial planning and financial therapy, Jackie shares her personal journey from poverty to financial independence—retiring at age 49—and her mission to help others do the same. They discuss: Jackie's financial journey and how she discovered FIRE Why she hands out $2 bills to students and audiences Her experience writing FIRE for Dummies and who the book is really for The origins and growth of the Catching Up to FI podcast Her role as FPA Chapter President and how she's helping reshape the profession Financial literacy efforts including a Roth IRA pilot for underserved youth And much more. Contact Jackie: 📘 Book: FIRE for Dummies 🎙 Podcast: catchinguptofi.com 🔗 LinkedIn: Jackie Cummings Koski 🌐 FPA Southwestern Ohio Chapter: fpaswo.org