Episodes

Episode 060: Operations is the cornerstone of any organization, and technology is integral to successful business operations. Their integration revolutionizes any organization, and wealth management is no exception. By automating tasks, streamlining workflows, and connecting disparate systems, technology has become an indispensable tool for improving operational efficiency. This increased efficiency empowers advisors to focus more on what they do best: serving their clients, building lasting rel...

Episode 059: CG Financial's expansion into property and casualty insurance is a unique strategy in the advisory space. While many firms focus on core expertise, CG Financial has ventured into new territories, taking advantage of its internal expertise. Its proactive use of EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System), diversification into new business lines, and commitment to technological excellence set the bar for strategic growth and leadership. In this episode, Kyle talks with Jeff Casey, Preside...

Episode 058: Financial advisory firms always look for innovative ways to create a culture of growth. Internal promotions and residency programs are some unique and great strategies. By nurturing talent and creating opportunities for advancement, specializing in a specific niche, and the strategic integration of technology, firms can cultivate seasoned advisors who understand the company's core values and philosophy and offer comprehensive planning solutions that truly resonate with clients. In ...

Episode 057: Financial advisors often go beyond the confines of business to become trusted guides in their client's financial lives. More than crafting investment strategies and managing portfolios, advisors offer support and expertise to individuals and families through various life stages and financial challenges. In this episode, Kyle talks with Scott Hanson, Co-Founder and Vice Chair at Allworth Financial. A nationally recognized financial expert, Scott has been named to Barron's list of th...

Episode 056: Partnering with a platform that prioritizes service over growth offers valuable opportunities for advisors and financial institutions. This strategic approach, combined with the power of technology and data analytics, streamlines operations and fosters deeper client connections. Priority Financial Group's approach to wealth management, rooted in flexibility, control, freedom, and technology, is a blueprint for success in the financial services industry. In this episode, Kyle talks ...

Episode 055: In this episode, Kyle talks with Shannon Spotswood, CEO at RFG Advisory, about empowering independent advisors through technology. Shannon discusses the importance of a tech-forward approach to delivering services and optimizing internal processes and what it takes to become the RIA of the future. She also shares the foundational pillars of RFG 2.0 and offers a glimpse into the future with RFG 3.0 and the strategic initiatives driving the platform's growth. In this episode: [03:23...

Episode 54: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Ted Bovard, Principal at Fort Pitt Capital Group. Ted shares his unconventional path to wealth management and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. Emphasizing the importance of long-term planning over chasing returns, Ted discusses Fort Pitt's client-first approach, the firm's five-step onboarding process, and how they leverage teamwork and technology to enhance their services. Kyle and Ted also explore the imp...

Episode 053: For many advisors, transitioning from wirehouse firms to independent practices is not just about autonomy—it's about building a business that aligns with their vision and values. However, true independence comes with its own set of challenges. To thrive, advisors need the right technology. When chosen strategically, technology becomes a key partner in building strong client relationships and delivering meaningful financial planning. In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle ta...

Episode 052: Successful advisory firms recognize that having the right people is an investment in the organization's future. But it's more than simply filling seats. It's about cultivating a team that is passionate about the industry, thrives in a collaborative environment, and is genuinely enthusiastic about contributing to its success. In this episode, Kyle talks with Lori Van Dusen, Founder and CEO of LVW Advisors. An advocate of client-focused strategies, Lori provides comprehensive, integr...

Episode 050: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle talks with April Turch, Chief Compliance Officer at Wolf Group Capital Advisors. April has more than 20 years of experience specializing in financial planning and wealth management operations. She manages and oversees firm-level projects that impact the firm's success, team performance, and overall client experience. April is also responsible for helping the firm scale its operations through technology, processes, systems, and people. ...

Episode 049: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle talks with Rob Mooney, Managing Partner and CEO of Snowden Lane Partners. Rob spent more than 22 years at Merrill Lynch in New York, Singapore, Hong Kong, and London. He was the General Counsel and Chief Business Risk Officer of Global Wealth Management and a member of the GWM Executive and Operating Committees. Rob talks with Kyle about why Snowden Lane Partners has consistently been on the top RIA lists, the increasing trend of advis...

Episode 48: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle Van Pelt brings together some of the best clips discussing the role of technology in the growth of RIAs. Featuring James Bogart, Sammy Azzouz, Melissa Bouchillon, and Justin Steitz, this episode dives into how technology aids in organic growth, client onboarding, building a tech stack around client needs, and managing with limited resources. Learn how these industry leaders leverage technology to provide value and stay competitive in the...

Episode 047: One key element differentiating high-performing advisory firms is their ability to attract, develop, and retain the best people. This translates into a workforce that is genuinely passionate about their work, leading to increased productivity and overall company success. While technology and investment strategies are critical for modern-day advisors, building a community within the organization is a strategic investment in the future. In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle ...

Episode 046: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle talks with Sammy Azzouz, President and CEO of Heritage Financial Services. In his role, Sammy leads a dynamic organization that provides meticulous wealth management services to clients. He keeps the firm at the cutting edge of the wealth management industry by charting a long-term strategic course and driving the execution of the firm’s strategic initiatives. Sammy is also the author of Beyond the Basics: Maximizing, Allocating, and Pr...

Episode 045: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle is joined by Brian Preston, Managing Partner at Abound Wealth Management and the Founder and Host of The Money Guy Show. Brian is a third-generation educator, and this desire to create educated clients led to the award-winning YouTube channel and podcast, The Money Guy Show. The Money Guy Show has been broadcasting for more than 15 years, and Brian has appeared on the Fox Business Channel and US News. Brian talks with Kyle about his bo...

Episode 44: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle talks with Scott Colangelo, Chairman and Managing Partner at Prime Capital Investment Advisors (PCIA) and Managing Director of Qualified Plan Advisors (QPA). Scott has earned several industry awards and recognition for his vision, leadership, and innovation. He leverages his industry knowledge and expertise to create customized solutions that help clients achieve their financial goals and objectives. Scott is also passionate about empowe...

Episode 043: In this episode, Kyle talks with Justin Steitz, President at Copper Financial. In his role, he leads sales, investment operations, compliance, and audits for the CommunityAmerica advisor channel and the broker-dealer business unit. Justin is dedicated to the credit union mantra of "people helping people" and focuses on giving back to the community. With a strong background in compliance, he is well-versed in the highly regulated wealth management industry. Before joining the Copper ...

Episode 042: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle talks with Jason Gordo, Co-founder and President of Modern Wealth Management. Jason is an accomplished wealth management executive with a diverse background in business strategy, execution, and mergers and acquisitions. He is known for his expertise in integrating tax planning into the financial planning process, helping clients optimize their financial strategies, and minimizing tax liabilities. Before joining Modern Wealth's founding ...

Episode 041: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle talks with Melissa Bouchillon, Managing Partner at Sound View Wealth Advisors. With a background in psychology and education, Melissa brings a different perspective to the financial advisory industry. In addition to her passion for helping her clients, Melissa is on the board of organizations near and dear to her heart, including the Landings Military Relief Fund, Marshes of Skidaway Island, and the Savannah Music Festival. Melissa tal...

Episode 040: The traditional path to building a business is often painted as a clear roadmap, following established blueprints and pre-defined steps. But, some founders follow a different playbook — one that focuses on the human element of business, fostering an environment that becomes a breeding ground for personal and professional growth. In this episode, Kyle talks with Benj Miller, Co-Founder & CEO of System & Soul. Benj is a proven entrepreneur who values character, culture, and innovatio...

Episode 039: The wealth management industry is moving beyond asset allocation and investment management. Clients require a broader suite of services, encompassing areas like tax planning, estate planning, and retirement accounts. Adero Partners recognizes these trends and is expanding its service scope to cater to its clients' evolving needs, signifying the firm's focus on providing a more comprehensive wealth management experience, and acting as the central advisor or family CFO for their clien...

Episode 038: In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle Van Pelt is joined by John Barrows, Founder and CEO of JB Sales. John has a wealth of experience in all aspects of business and sales, from making 400 dials a week to leading a self-funded team from startup through acquisition, starting his own business, and now working with some of the world's fastest-growing and most dynamic companies. He believes that, when done right, sales is one of the greatest professions in the world, but when d...

Episode 037: The pace of technological change is rapid, to say the least. But change often brings with it exciting opportunities. Technology innovation presents nearly endless possibilities and potential to improve how firms and advisors operate and serve their clients. In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Mark Delato, Managing Partner and COO at Simon Quick Advisors. Mark plays a significant role in providing comprehensive financial advice to high-net-worth indivi...

Episode 036: Athletes are often stereotyped as prone to making poor financial decisions. While this perception is unfair, the real problem lies in a lack of financial education. This gap can leave them susceptible to mismanagement and potentially risky financial ventures. Fortunately, with the right tools and support, professional and college athletes can overcome these obstacles and build a legacy of wealth far beyond the playing field. In this episode of The Connected Advisor, Kyle is joined ...