Behind the Curtain Finance

Staying efficient while maintaining strong client relationships is becoming more challenging for advisors. How can technology reduce workload without losing the human connection that clients value most?documenting client conversations… In this episode, Thomas Manetta speaks with Matt Halloran, Chief Evangelist at Zocks, about how AI is transforming the way advisors manage meetings, workflows, and client communication. They explore how tools that connect multiple systems can eliminate repetitive tasks and free up time. Matt also shares how advisors can turn client conversations into meaningful content and insights.  The conversation highlights how better prompts, smarter integrations, and authentic communication can help advisors grow while staying focused on relationships. Key takeaways: How AI tools connect multiple platforms to eliminate duplicate data entry and reduce manual workload Turning client meeting insights into blogs, social posts, and video scripts using simple prompts Why better prompts lead to better AI outcomes and how advisors can improve their inputs Using AI-generated advisory boards to gain perspective on financial decisions and planning Creating short-form video content that reflects real client conversations and builds authenticity And more! Connect with Thomas Manetta:  (415) 640-2121 LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth  [email protected]  Connect with Matt Halloran: LinkedIn: Matt Halloran Website: Matt Halloran Website: Zocks About our Guest:  Matt Halloran, widely known as MattGPT, is the Chief Evangelist for Zocks and a trusted voice at the intersection of communication, leadership, and technology in financial services. A seasoned keynote presenter, three-time author, TEDx speaker, and industry expert, Matt brings more than 15 years of experience as an advisor, coach, and practice management consultant, helping professionals transform the way they connect with clients, teams, and themselves. Known for his warmth, authenticity, and signature “nice-guy rebellion,” Matt challenges outdated ideas of leadership built on pressure, perfection, and posturing. Instead, he champions a more human approach rooted in empathy, curiosity, and intentional listening. Over the course of his career, he has helped thousands of advisors and business leaders build deeper relationships, create more meaningful impact, and rediscover the joy in their work through genuine human connection. Matt is the author of Shut the F Up and Listen, a practical and deeply relatable book that blends real-world stories, actionable exercises, and proven tools to help people reconnect in an increasingly noisy and distracted world. His widely viewed TEDx talk expands on this philosophy and introduces the HOPE framework, Helping One Person Every Day, illustrating how small, intentional acts of presence and compassion can compound into lasting personal, professional, and cultural change. With appearances on more than 1,000 podcasts, Matt is a natural storyteller who brings a rare mix of wisdom, humor, and heart to every stage, conversation, and audience. Whether speaking to advisors, entrepreneurs, or leadership teams, his message consistently resonates because it is practical, honest, and deeply human. At the core of everything Matt does is a simple but powerful mission: to help people communicate better, listen deeper, and lead with love—proving that in a world increasingly driven by automation, humanity remains the ultimate competitive advantage.

What happens when AI begins reshaping the financial advice industry faster than most advisors expect? In this episode, Thomas Manetta sits down with Alex Chalekian, Founder and CEO of Lake Avenue Financial,  to unpack a technology shift that may fundamentally change how advisors operate and how clients experience financial planning. Together, they explore the evolving role of technology and artificial intelligence in financial services and how new tools may reshape the way advisors serve clients. Thomas and Alex discuss the ripple effects following the rollout of integrated tax planning tools within the Altruist ecosystem and what this signals for the future of the industry. Drawing on decades of experience, Alex shares his perspective on how automation, AI agents, and fully integrated platforms may streamline financial planning, improve client experiences, and allow advisors to focus more on relationships rather than administrative work. They also reflect on the historical evolution of the advisory business, from commission-based models to fee-based planning, and how the next wave of technology may accelerate another major industry shift. Thomas and Alex discuss: How integrated tax planning tools are beginning to reshape the advisor technology stack Why AI-driven platforms may dramatically improve efficiency for financial advisors The potential shift from fragmented software tools to fully integrated planning systems How client expectations may evolve as financial advice becomes more technology-enabled The opportunities and challenges AI may create for the next generation of advisors Why strong client relationships will remain central, even as technology advances And more! Connect with Thomas Manetta:  (415) 640-2121 LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth  [email protected]  Connect with Alex Chalekian:  LinkedIn: Alex Chalekian Lake Avenue Financial   About Alex Chalekian:  Alex Chalekian is the Founder and CEO of Lake Avenue Financial, an independent wealth management firm based in Pasadena, California. With decades of experience in financial services, Alex focuses on helping clients build thoughtful financial strategies through comprehensive planning and long-term guidance. Throughout his career, Alex has witnessed multiple industry transformations, from the shift away from commission-based advice to the growth of fee-based planning and independent advisory firms. Today, he continues to explore how technology, automation, and evolving platforms may improve the client experience and help advisors operate more efficiently. Alex is known for his thoughtful perspective on advisor technology, industry trends, and the evolving role of financial advisors in a rapidly changing landscape.

What happens when a long-standing client relationship ends, and instead of devastation, you feel relief? In this episode, Thomas Manetta opens up about losing one of his largest and longest-standing clients after more than a decade of working closely together. What initially looked like a professional setback became a powerful moment of reflection. Thomas shares how overextending himself for one relationship created blind spots in his business, strained his energy, and ultimately limited his ability to serve others at his highest level. Thomas Manetta discusses: The risks of becoming too concentrated in one client relationship How personal boundaries impact professional effectiveness Recognizing signs of misalignment before it’s too late Why must respect flow both ways in any advisory relationship Rebuilding energy, structure, and engagement in your practice And more! Connect with Thomas Manetta:  (415) 640-2121 LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth  [email protected] 

Marketing tools promise efficiency, but do they deliver authenticity?  Can technology replace the human connection that builds trust in financial advisory relationships? In this episode, Thomas Manetta sits down with Joe Moss, founder of AdvisorTechBook, for a candid conversation about AI prospecting tools, the future of advisor technology, and the importance of staying human in an increasingly automated industry.  Joe shares his critical perspective on platforms like FINNY, why cold outreach often fails, and how advisors can use technology without sacrificing authenticity. They also explore Joe’s new platform, Skool, and his upcoming book on the advisor tech stack. Joe discusses: Why AI-generated content in cold prospecting damages trust rather than building it The golden rule of prospecting and respecting potential clients’ time How authentic, personalized outreach dramatically improves response rates The shift from social media positivity to AI-generated content eroding human connection Why the AUM business model undervalues the real impact financial advisors provide And more! Resources: How FINNY Is Powering the Future of Organic Growth for Advisors with Eden Ovadia (Ep. 13) Connect with Thomas Manetta:  (415) 640-2121 LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth  [email protected]  Connect with Joe Moss: LinkedIn: Joe Moss Website: AdvisorTechBook Skool: @joemoss [email protected] About our Guest:  With a background in various industries, including real estate and data analysis, Joe Moss has become a go-to resource for financial advisors looking to optimize their tech stacks. Known for his practical solutions and ability to make complex concepts easy to understand, Joe’s work is all about helping advisors make smarter, more informed decisions when it comes to technology. When working with Joe, you’ll soon realize he has a passion for problem-solving and helping others understand the value in optimizing their tech solutions. He’s developed a broad knowledge of the industry from years of reading about and listening to thought leaders in the RIA and fintech space. Today, Joe uses his background and deep industry understanding to help advisors navigate the increasingly complex advisortech landscape.

Most advisors do not lose prospects because of advice quality; they lose them because the process feels slow, confusing, or outdated before trust ever has a chance to form. In this episode, Thomas Manetta sits down with John Finney, CFP®, Co-Founder of Overvue, to pull back the curtain on one of the most overlooked friction points in financial services: onboarding. Together, they explore how the way advisors gather information sets the tone for trust, confidence, and long-term relationships. Thomas and John discuss: Why onboarding is often the biggest hidden bottleneck in advisory firms How outdated paperwork and manual processes impact client perception The role client experience plays in advisor retention and growth What frictionless onboarding looks like for both tech-savvy and non-tech clients Why scalable, independent advisory practices are becoming more realistic And more! Connect with Thomas Manetta:  (415) 640-2121 LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth  [email protected]  Connect with John Finney: LinkedIn: John Finney Overvue [email protected] About our Guest:  John Finney is the Co-Founder of Overvue, a platform built to simplify and modernize the onboarding experience between financial advisors and clients. With a background in wealth management, John focuses on solving real operational problems that improve efficiency, accuracy, and client experience.

This episode takes you inside the real shift that changed Thomas’s entire career.  After years inside legacy firms that prioritized sales over service, Thomas talks openly about what happened when he moved to Altruist and finally felt free to work in a way that matched his values. He shares the moment a long-time client noticed the change in him, how independent custodial support unlocked authentic advisory work, and why organic growth becomes possible when your platform is aligned with your purpose.  You will also hear how AI, advisor independence, and the future of custodial technology may reshape the entire wealth management landscape. What you can expect: How custodial alignment impacts authenticity Why organic growth is tied to trust, not tactics The role AI will play in the next era of advisory work Why content and podcasting change organic visibility And more! Resources: Behind The Curtain Finance on YouTube Building the Future of Advice with Jason Wenk (Ep. 11) Connect with Thomas Manetta:  (415) 640-2121 LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth  [email protected] 

What if your next great client came from authentic connection, not acquisition? In this episode, Thomas Manetta sits down with Eden Ovadia, CEO and Co-Founder of FINNY, a groundbreaking organic growth engine helping independent advisors attract clients without relying on mergers, acquisitions, or referral programs. Together, they unpack how technology, data, and authenticity can empower advisors to grow smarter, faster, and more meaningfully.  Thomas and Eden discuss: How FINNY helps advisors build personalized, scalable prospecting campaigns Why authentic communication outperforms generic AI-generated outreach The compounding power of content and LinkedIn for long-term growth How technology like FINNY is reshaping independence and redefining what’s possible for solo RIAs And more! Connect with Thomas Manetta:  (415) 640-2121 LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth  [email protected]  Connect with Eden Ovadia: LinkedIn: Eden Ovadia FINNY About Our Guest: Eden Ovadia is the CEO and Co-Founder of FINNY. Eden is originally from Montreal, where she received a Software Engineering degree from McGill University, specializing in Machine Learning. While at McGill, she worked at EY and KPMG as a Cyber Security Advisory Associate. Upon graduation, Eden joined BCG NYC, where she primarily worked in the Tech, Financial Institutions & Private Equity practices for over 2 years.

Advisors frequently face the challenge of striking a balance between growth, independence, and client care. How do you use technology to scale without losing your personal touch? How do you create a path for future generations of advisors while building your own legacy? In this episode of Behind The Curtain Finance, Thomas Manetta reflects on his conversation with Jason Wenk of Altruist and explores how technology, independence, and long-term vision can reshape advisory practices. He shares his goals for scaling, the promise of AI-driven tools, and his vision of mentoring the next generation of advisors. Key takeaways: The transformative potential of Altruist’s platform for solo advisors aiming to scale beyond traditional limits How AI and integrated tech stacks are redefining efficiency and client service Real-world example of using Holistiplan to impress prospects with instant, actionable tax insights Why independence allows advisors to put clients first without conflicts of interest The vision of building a legacy by mentoring young advisors and creating pathways to ownership And more! Resources:  Building the Future of Advice with Jason Wenk (Ep. 11) Connect with Thomas Manetta:  (415) 640-2121 LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth  [email protected] 

What happens when the infrastructure of financial services finally catches up to the modern world of cloud, APIs, and AI? In this episode of Behind the Curtain Finance, host Thomas Manetta sits down with Jason Wenk, founder and CEO of Altruist, the first fully integrated digital custodian designed for independent advisors. Together, they explore how technology is reshaping financial services, from APIs and microservices to agent-based AI support like Hazel and paraplanners. Thomas and Jason discuss: Why legacy financial infrastructure holds advisors back, and how vertical integration changes the game The role of APIs and cloud-native architecture in building seamless advisor and client experiences How AI agents may transform operations, scale, and client outcomes in the next 24 months Why the future of advice depends on empathy, authenticity, and human connection, even in a tech-driven world And more! Resources: Subscribe to Behind The Curtain Finance on YouTube Connect with Thomas Manetta:  (415) 640-2121 LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth  [email protected]  Connect with Jason Wenk: Website: Altruist Website: Jason Wenk LinkedIn: Jason Wenk About our Guest: Jason Wenk is the founder and CEO of Altruist, the first custodian built intentionally from the ground up to support independent financial advisors who want to do the best possible work for their clients with as few conflicts as possible.

What if the very institutions holding your money were competing against you? In this episode of Behind the Curtain Finance, Thomas Manetta pulls back the curtain on the hidden conflicts of traditional Wall Street custodians and how a new era of transparency and technology is reshaping the way advisors and clients interact with their money. Thomas discusses: The history of custodianship, from banks in the Gilded Age to today’s RIAs Why discount brokerages like Schwab and Fidelity disrupted the status quo How independent custodians, such as Altruist, are removing conflicts of interest The role of AI in transforming how clients and advisors see their financial lives Why younger advisors are demanding independence and ownership in their careers And more! Resources: Subscribe to Behind The Curtain Finance on YouTube Connect with Thomas Manetta:  (415) 640-2121 LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth  [email protected] 

When you think of estate planning, do visions of stuffy legal offices and endless paperwork come to mind? It’s time to change that. In this episode, Thomas Manetta is here to change that perception. Drawing from years of firsthand experience, Thomas shares why estate planning isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy and why putting it off can lead to conflict, confusion, and costly legal battles. From sibling disputes to outdated trusts, he’s seen the ripple effects of poor planning. But thanks to new technologies and AI-powered tools, creating a legally sound estate plan is now simpler, faster, and more accessible than ever. What you’ll learn from this episode: Why waiting to plan your estate can tear families apart How Thomas offers complimentary estate planning to clients The surprising role AI is playing in the future of holistic financial advice Common estate planning mistakes (and how to avoid them) And more! Connect with Thomas Manetta:  (415) 640-2121 LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth  [email protected] 

What if taxes didn’t have to be so stressful? This week, Thomas Manetta shares how real-time tax planning and new tech tools are transforming the advisor-client relationship. He also opens up about his own education journey and how AI is rewriting the rules, both in school and in finance.  From Holistiplan to ChatGPT, this episode uncovers how integrated planning is the future of financial services. Thomas discusses: How Holistiplan software enables year-round conversations that reduce tax-time stress Why he requires three years of tax returns from every new client How AI and automation could reshape both IRS operations and client planning workflows The dramatic shift in education around AI tools, including his graduate school experience The vision of a fully integrated planning platform at the custodial level And more! Connect with Thomas Manetta:  (415) 640-2121 LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth  [email protected] 

Trust and alignment form the bedrock of effective financial planning, but how do you build these foundations with clients? In this episode, Thomas Manetta shares his journey from traditional financial advisory roles to founding Manetta Wealth Management, where he prioritizes conflict-free and transparent client relationships. He explores the essential components of financial planning, emphasizing simplicity, transparency, and long-term client alignment. Thomas discusses: [00:04:00] The shift from product-pushing in institutional settings to alignment-focused, comprehensive advice as an independent advisor [00:07:52] How trust, established through transparent investment planning, sets the tone for all other aspects of client relationships [00:09:07] How many clients don’t realize the fees they’re paying and benefit from being empowered with knowledge and transparency [00:13:05] How emotional reactions to markets can derail long-term growth and the advisor’s role is to maintain perspective [00:15:23] The future of advisory work is shifting from just investment strategy to planning around taxes, estates, and cash flow management And more! Connect with Thomas Manetta:  (415) 640-2121 LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth  [email protected] 

AI may reshape financial services—but it will never replace empathy. This week, Thomas J. Manetta shares how owning his firm redefined his identity, strengthened client bonds, and sparked a deeper purpose. With automation rising, it’s the human touch that sets advisors apart. This episode explores why genuine relationships are the future of advisory services. Thomas discusses:  [00:07:53] How AI will streamline investment, tax, and estate planning, but cannot replace the emotional intelligence and advocacy of a human advisor [00:02:42] The power of alignment—between advisor, client, and custodian—is a foundation for authentic and trust-based relationships [00:02:00] How launching his firm led to personal transformation and stronger client connections, marked by vulnerability and mutual respect [00:06:26] How advisors should prioritize intention and empathy in planning processes, integrating emotional care with financial advice [00:13:38] The emerging shift in the profession toward human-centric, authenticity-led practices, and how tech like ChatGPT can help clients find aligned advisors And more! Connect with Thomas Manetta:  (415) 640-2121 LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth  [email protected] 

What does it mean to truly put clients first in the world of finance? Thomas J. Manetta at Manetta Wealth Management shares a compelling story of steadfast commitment and authenticity in serving clients. This episode dives into how Thomas helped a client navigate financial betrayal and personal adversity, reinforcing the value of building genuine, long-term relationships in financial advising. Thomas delves into: [00:00:53] The challenges and rewards of rescuing a client from a toxic financial relationship  [00:09:55] Navigating personal tragedy alongside clients and the role of empathy in finance  [00:12:59] How the landscape of financial services is evolving with technology and independent advisor models   [00:16:48] Encouraging a new generation of advisors to break free from traditional models and focus on client alignment [00:18:03] Insights into the creation of a podcast as a means to share and educate about authentic financial advising. Connect with Thomas Manetta:  LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth 

What happens when life unexpectedly hands you the responsibility of managing finances for the first time? Delve into an emotional story of trust, transformation, and resilience as Thomas Manetta shares a heartfelt account of his long-standing client relationship. After the passing of her husband, Thomas steps in to help a client who faced the daunting task of managing her estate and finances – something she had never done before. Thomas Manetta discusses: The deep-seated impact of personal connections in financial advising. [00:00:57] How aligning interests and providing conflict-free advice can transform client relationships. [00:05:34] Building trust with family members who are skeptical of financial advisors. [00:06:20] The significance of empathy and authentic support during difficult life transitions. [00:13:02] Reflections on the emotional strength required to serve clients deeply. [00:14:54] Resources: The Emotional Impact of Financial Decisions: A True Story (Ep. 3) Connect with Thomas Manetta:  LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth

What truly makes a financial advisor irreplaceable during life’s toughest times? In this heart-touching episode of “Behind the Curtain Finance,” host Thomas Manetta shares the emotional journey of helping two sisters facing significant life challenges. Join Thomas as he navigates through complexities, offers empathy, and reshapes what it means to be a financial advisor today. Discover how Thomas turned a difficult situation into a bond of trust and transparency, underscoring the powerful impact of a truly client-first approach. This is a must-listen for anyone who values genuine, conflict-free financial advice! Thomas discusses: How two sisters found financial clarity during a crisis [00:00:52] The challenges and triumphs in offering true fiduciary care [00:03:30] Navigating the complexities of handling a loved one’s financial affairs [00:07:24] The strategic advantages of modern platforms like Altruist [00:13:19] The profound personal growth that stems from delivering client-focused service [00:14:45] This episode is a deep dive into the heart of financial advising, where human connection meets professional integrity. Connect with Thomas Manetta:  LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth

How do you know that you’re truly working for your clients and not just for a paycheck? Join Thomas Manetta of Manetta Wealth Management as he takes you behind the scenes of financial advising without the smoke and mirrors. He shares his personal journey from trading floors to founding an independent advisory firm dedicated to conflict-free and client-first financial advice. Thomas discusses:  The challenges and realizations that prompted his shift from traditional financial firms to independence [00:01:16] The impact of real-world education and formal learning in shaping his advisory philosophy [00:03:09] Key lessons and experiences from his time at various firms, including the 2008 Lehman Brothers crisis [00:08:29] The role of custodians like Altruist in supporting independent advisors and clients [00:12:12] His mission to help other advisors embrace independence for a more fulfilling career [00:19:48] And more Connect with Client:  LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth

What happens when a financial advisor decides to break free from corporate constraints and prioritize client interests above all?  Thomas Manetta from Manetta Wealth Management takes you on his journey from the traditional financial world to independent advising, highlighting the cracks in the system that many clients may not even be aware of. Discover why he believes the independent Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) space, especially platforms like Altruist, can truly revolutionize client-advisor relationships by eliminating these conflicts. Thomas discusses:  His encounter with a notorious non-compete [00:02:33] The transformation when becoming a firm owner [00:13:29] Real-life stories of supporting clients through personal hardships [00:17:48] Why going independent means more meaningful connections [00:18:00] And more Connect with Client:  LinkedIn: Thomas Manetta Manetta Wealth

Choosing a financial advisor can be a daunting task, especially if you are not sure of the right questions to ask. The purpose of this podcast is to help you understand which questions are important to ask, why they are important and how the answers to these questions can help you find the right advisor who is interested in only one thing: protecting and defending you without any conflicts of interest.