The Diamond Podcast for Financial Advisors

With Jeremy Holly, Executive Vice President Strategic Business Development and Jared Fingeret, Senior Vice President—LPL Financial Overview Succession and monetization are hot topics for advisors in every model. LPL Financial’s Liquidity and Succession program representatives discuss what advisors, independent business owners, and next gens need to consider as they grow their businesses and explore long-term and short-term options, plus best practices to prepare for a transition and maximize business value. Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. About this episode… Succession planning is one area in wealth management that seems to have trouble keeping up with the industry’s growth and evolution. Research studies indicate that less than 30% of advisors have a succession plan. Many more who run thriving businesses have no strategy at the ready should a worst-case scenario leave them unable to attend to their clients’ needs or even continue their livelihood. Likewise, many advisors are still looking at the equity they’ve accumulated in their firms and wondering how they can access it—whether to monetize their life’s work or reinvest in the business’ growth. While advisors have a lot to evaluate, including many prospective external capital partners and investors, the good news is that there are firms that realize there are great partnership opportunities available internally with these thriving practices. In this episode, LPL Financial’s Jeremy Holly, Executive Vice President of Strategic Business Development, and Jared Fingeret, Senior Vice President, join Louis Diamond to discuss this critical topic. Jeremy and Jared represent LPL’s Liquidity and Succession program, which provides end-to-end solutions for advisors looking to increase business value and monetize the legacy they’ve built. So in this episode, they share perspectives for both business founders and next gens on what they need to consider as they grow their businesses and explore both the long-term and the short-term, including: Succession options that exist for advisors—and how new pathways are being born every day. Sunset deals offered by the wirehouses—and how they might compare to an option from a firm like LPL or others. Monetization options—and how each avenue can impact a business owner and the next gen. The state of valuations—and what advisors need to know and the steps to take to maximize the value of their business. It’s a conversation relevant to advisors and next gens in the wirehouses, independent firms, and everywhere in between. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources An Insider’s Perspective of LPL Strategic Wealth Services: A “Modern” Supported Independence Model Kimberly Sanders, Senior Vice President of Advisor Solutions for LPL Strategic Wealth Services discusses the evolution of the supported independence space and dives into how models like LPL’s address the changing needs of advisors and their clients. Kimberly also helps to answer the question: What drives an advisor’s decision of one model vs. another in an industry landscape replete with just about every option under the sun? The Next Gen Dilemma: 5 Unique Realities Faced by Successors The path for next gen advisors can be wrought with some pitfalls, yet when walked with confidence and flexibility, it can be immensely rewarding. Top Tips for Setting Your Business Up for Success Years Before a Move In this document, we have compiled the most salient tips collected from over two decades of helping our advisor-clients through successful transitions. Whether you’re just at the curiosity stage or are deep into the due diligence process, there are plenty of things you can be doing in the background to prepare your business and team for a potential move. Jeremy Holly Executive Vice President Jeremy Holly serves as Executive Vice President of LPL Capital Partners for LPL Financial. In this role, Holly and his team are responsible for the creation, development, execution and oversight of LPL’s suite of offerings designed to help financial advisors looking to grow through acquisition, access liquidity from their business, monetize their life’s work through a sale of their practice or protect the legacy they’ve built. Serving as a key leader with LPL for more than two decades, Holly has held numerous roles across corporate development, advisor financial solutions, national sales, strategy and finance. After stepping away for two years to  serve as chief development and integration officer for SageView Advisory Group, where he was responsible for the firm’s acquisitions, recruiting, and synergy realization, Holly rejoined LPL Financial in 2023. Holly is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He lives in San Diego.   Jared Fingeret Senior Vice President Jared Fingeret serves as Senior Vice President of LPL Liquidity & Capital, which addresses advisors’ monetization and succession needs. In this role, he is responsible for crafting the strategy and execution of LPL’s proprietary M&A offerings to help financial advisors monetize their business through either a full or partial book sale, transition out of their business, or protect the legacy they’ve built. With more than a decade of experience in the financial services industry, Fingeret joined LPL Financial in 2022 from HighTower where he served as Director of M&A. He also held previous roles with Focus Financial Partners and Deloitte. Fingeret is a graduate of Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Science in Finance. He lives in Brooklyn, N.Y. with his wife, two children, and their cat, a Russian Blue, named Boris Ivanovich. Also available on your favorite podcast app and other media sites                                             Browse other episodes in this podcast series…

A Special Industry Update with Louis Diamond & Jamie Campbell Overview A special episode designed for firms with their sights set on enhancing recruiting efforts and advisors looking to attract new team members, offering the steps to craft an effective Employer Value Proposition (EVP), with examples on usage and potential impact on hiring success and retention. Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. About this episode… It should come as no surprise that competition for top talent has become tougher than ever. This means that companies must excel at attracting, hiring, and retaining team members. So where do you start? Studies indicate that communicating and demonstrating a clear Employer Value Proposition or EVP is one of the most important factors in attracting and retaining talent. For example, a study by CareerArc found that 69% of candidates would decline a job offer from a company with a negative employer brand—even if they were unemployed. A Gallup poll indicated that employees who understand and connect with their company’s mission and values are 67% more engaged. A Gartner study found that approximately 65% of candidates reported withdrawing from a hiring process because of an unattractive EVP. Likewise, a well-defined EVP can increase new hire commitment by up to 29% and potentially reduce annual employee turnover by nearly 70%. So, what exactly is an Employer Value Proposition and how can you create one that’s compelling as well as something your firm can live up to? Jamie Campbell from our new Executive Search Group joins Louis Diamond in this special Industry Update to break it all down, including: The key ingredients of an EVP—and how each resonate with prospective talent. The importance of a well-crafted EVP—and how to ensure its tenants are embedded into your culture. Aligning your EVP with your corporate vision and strategy—and what firms do this best. The value of retention—and how it’s impacted by your EVP. Communicating your EVP—and what you can do to expand your messaging reach. It’s an episode that offers immediate action items for firms with their sights set on enhancing their recruiting efforts and advisors looking to attract and retain new team members. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. [callout new_tab=”yes” animation=”bottom-to-top” title=”Start Quiz” icon=”icon-comments” link=”https://diamond-consultants.typeform.com/to/NkM5gb89″]Is Your Firm Ready to Attract and Secure Top Talent? Take this quick quiz to evaluate your executive search preparedness.[/callout] Related Resources About Our Executive Search Group A dedicated partner to help you find the right talent for your growth. Our 7-Step-Process Our retained executive search platform is based on three decades of experience, expertise, and extensive reach—and a unique 7-step proprietary methodology. Also available on your favorite podcast app and other media sites                                             Browse other episodes in this podcast series…

With Scott Pinkerton – Senior Planner & Managing Partner, FourThought Private Wealth Overview Scott Pinkerton of FourThought Private Wealth offers a perspective on outgrowing the independent broker dealer model, transitioning to an independent RIA, and the extraordinary growth realized as a result of the change. Scott unpacks the difference between the models, shares why he opted to sell equity to Focus Financial, and more. Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. About this episode… Independence comes in various shapes and sizes—with different levels of freedom and control that can serve just about any desire an advisor may have in building their business. Scott Pinkerton knew that firsthand, having joined his father’s business in the 1980s at A.G. Edwards. Wachovia’s acquisition of the firm, which soon became Wells Fargo, opened the door for Pinkerton Private Wealth to join Wells’ independent broker dealer model, Finet. For decades, the IBD model worked well for Scott and his team, building the business to over $700mm in assets under management. Yet there came a point when Scott wondered: “Should we coast along and just stay comfortable, or should we challenge ourselves to beat the trends and go for it?” Then, it became clear that even though they were “independent,” they were still limited by the guardrails imposed by the IBD model. To be a true fiduciary and make untethered decisions about their business and how they served clients would mean taking the ultimate leap: launching their own independent RIA. And so they did. In 2020, FourThought Private Wealth launched and five years later grew to manage over $1.7B in client assets. In this episode with host Mindy Diamond, Scott talks about that journey and his transition, including: The choice to leave Wells and launch an RIA firm—and how that decision has impacted their business. Life in the independent broker dealer model—and what promoted them to consider full-on independence. Their extraordinary growth—and what key factors drive it. Selling equity to Focus Financial Partners—and why they saw this as the right move at the right time. Plus, Scott offers a detailed perspective on serving clients, their ability to provide “unique” family office services, the realities of business ownership, and much more. It’s an episode for any advisor or business owner who may be looking at their business and considering how best to optimize it for now and the future. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources You ARE Vulnerable: A Reality Check for All Wirehouse Advisors There is a new reality for advisors who work for a wirehouse:  An undercurrent of vulnerability. Are You Vulnerable? An Advisor’s Guide to Surviving and Thriving in a Hyper-Compliant Environment In a world managed to the lowest common denominator and driven by heavy-handed compliance, every employee advisor is vulnerable. In this episode, Mindy and Louis break it all down, share warning signs all advisors should pay attention to and proactive steps an advisor can take to protect themselves. Vulnerability & Termination – An Advisor’s Survival Guide A list of steps to take if you feel vulnerable, are under investigation or heightened supervision or have been terminated. Scott Pinkerton Senior Planner, Managing Partner Scott is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® and Accredited Investment Fiduciary® who began his career in financial planning in 1985. He also completed the Certified Investment Management Analyst® program through the Wharton School of Finance. He later became a Certified Private Wealth Advisor® through the Investments & Wealth Institute at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. CPWA® is an advanced credential for wealth managers who work with high-net-worth families and individuals, focusing on the life cycle of wealth: accumulation, preservation, and distribution. Most recently, in 2023, Scott was named to the Barron’s Top 1200 Advisors and Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors. Scott is a longtime philanthropist, a deacon in his church, and an avid cyclist. He and his wife of more than 30 years, Julie, have three grown daughters and four grandchildren: 2 granddaughters and 2 grandsons. Also available on your favorite podcast app and other media sites                                             Browse other episodes in this podcast series…

With James Conole—Founder, Root Financial Overview James Conole built Root Financial from zero to ~$2.4B in just 8 years. Louis Diamond speaks with him about how he grew the firm through content and inbound demand rather than traditional business development, and how Root approaches culture, growth, and operating in a fully virtual environment. Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. Watch… https://youtu.be/qmBjVi82jDc About this episode… Wealth management firms typically develop in a similar manner. It generally begins with a book of business, grows through referrals and relationships, and over time expands by adding other like-minded advisors. It’s a model that works—one that has been reinforced for decades. However, James Conole took a different path, beginning from the ground up. He’s the founder of Root Financial, a firm that’s grown to about $2.4B in assets in just 8 years. And what makes that growth interesting isn’t just the number—it’s how it happened. James didn’t begin with a book, nor did he grow the business through traditional prospecting or by recruiting advisors with existing books of business. Instead, the firm grew out of something else: content, inbound demand, and a very intentional approach to building a team that could support it. That’s the focus of this conversation with Louis Diamond. They dive into James’ story, including: The traditional playbook—and why James felt he could build a firm in a new way. The real value of content—and what made their YouTube videos an effective client acquisition engine. Balancing growth between demand and capacity—and why it’s not a process left to a single metric. The virtual firm—and how to foster and maintain consistency and culture as it scales. Effective Zoom team meetings—and what key activity drives their success. The “one meeting close”—and how that process changed their efficacy in onboarding new clients. It’s a fresh look at building a business, managing growth, and creating a culture that’s rooted in the values and mission upon which the firm is built. Plenty to learn for advisors and business owners alike. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources Custody Reimagined: How Jason Wenk and Altruist Are Disrupting the Status QuoA candid conversation on rethinking custody from the ground up—and why simplification, aligned economics, and integrated technology are becoming critical for advisors building modern, scalable firms. Firms That Win in 2025: What Advisors Are Really Looking ForWith advisor expectations evolving, not all “good firms” are winning the talent. Mindy and Louis Diamond share what today’s top advisors really value—and why some firms are standing out while others fall short. Intentional Growth: How Top Advisors Build Businesses That LastMarkets can be a tailwind, but building a durable business requires intention and a plan. Here are 5 core practices from the industry’s elite. The 10 Characteristics of the Most Successful TeamsThe most successful teams are led by strong leaders who guide cohesive groups with complementary skills, all working together towards a shared goal: success. We’ve put together a list of 10 key traits that top teams consistently excel in.   James ConoleFounder Founder of Root Financial Partners, James is CFP® professional who practices financial planning for clients under a fiduciary oath. He received his MBA with a concentration in finance from Pepperdine University. He currently resides with his beautiful family in Cardiff, CA, and runs his financial planning firm out of Solana Beach. James enjoys helping people navigate the complexities of their financial lives so they can be free to enjoy what they love most. When he’s not working, James loves to surf, stay active, and spend time with his family. He’s also involved in his church and engages in several local organizations like the Rotary and San Diego Financial Literary Center.

With Ryan Guth, Founder, Goldfin Group Overview Jason Diamond speaks with Ryan Guth, Founder of Goldfin Group, on moving beyond Edward Jones to build a business defined by control, differentiation, and entrepreneurial alignment. It’s a thoughtful conversation about independence, and what it really means to build a business that fits your clients, your strengths, and your long-term vision. Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. Watch… https://youtu.be/SRQSjRbtRzY About this episode… Advisors usually don’t set out seeking change. In fact, the opposite is usually true. They build within a system, take advantage of the opportunities in front of them, and grow something meaningful over time. And for a while, that alignment works. But over time, priorities evolve. What once felt like the right environment can start to feel limiting: whether it’s how you serve clients, how you present yourself in the market, or how much control you really have over the direction of your business. And that’s where things begin to shift. In this episode, Ryan Guth, Founder of Goldfin Group, talks through that evolution in a very real and practical way. Ryan started his career at Edward Jones – an experience he still speaks very highly of – but ultimately decided to go independent to build a business that better reflected how he wanted to serve his entrepreneurial clients and express his entrepreneurial instincts. What makes Ryan’s perspective especially interesting is his background. Before wealth management, he was a musical conductor. And that lens carries through into how he thinks about the advisor’s role today—not as someone focused on products or portfolios, but as the person coordinating all the moving parts of a client’s financial life. Ryan unpacks it all with Jason Diamond, including: The decision to leave Edward Jones—and what he was looking to gain in independence. The importance of marketing—and how “differentiation” plays a major role in Goldfin’s success. The inside view of a transition—and what other advisors can learn both operationally and strategically. The alignment of his values and mindset with those of his clients—and how being an entrepreneur became more important over time. The impact of acquisitions—and Ryan’s firsthand perspective on the acquisition of his broker dealer, Atria. It’s a thoughtful conversation about independence, but more importantly, it’s about what it really means to build a business that fits your clients, your strengths, and your long-term vision. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources Player or Coach? Why Every Advisor Eventually Has to Choose As advisory firms grow, founders often face a critical inflection point: double down on being a top producer or evolve into a leader who builds lasting enterprise value. The Annual Report on Recruiting, Deals, and Transitions A companion to our annual Advisor Transition Report, Jason Diamond and Louis Diamond unpack what’s driving advisor movement in 2025, and what the data reveals about control, growth, and where the industry is heading. IBD vs. RIA – Which Model Fits Your Future This guide offers a clear, side-by-side view of the two models—including distinctions between the DIY route of building an RIA from scratch and opting for a supportive independence platform to help align your business goals with greater options and opportunities. Diamond Consultants Edward Jones Advisor Transition Report 2025 This “firm-focused report” seeks to look under the hood at movement to and from Edward Jones from January to June of 2025. Have You Outgrown Your IBD or the Model Itself? Spending years inside the independent broker dealer framework can eventually spark a deeper reckoning. Advisors begin to look beyond the logo on the statement and ask a more fundamental question: does this structure still align with the future they’re building, or has their business outgrown its foundation? Ryan Guth Founder​ I lead Goldfin Group from Franklin, TN and Albuquerque, NM, where I combine strategic financial guidance with a deep understanding of entrepreneurs’ pivotal transitions. My leadership reflects a blend of professional insight and personal commitment, guiding clients toward aligning their financial strategies with their God-given purpose and gifts. I am a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. ​I am married to my wife, Amanda, and am the father to three boys. I enjoy all things entrepreneurial and am always on the lookout for new and innovative ways to solve bigger problems for more people, so they can be a greater force for good in the world. I recently became an author in 2024 with my first book Permission to Exit: Prepare to Sell Your Business Without Regret. In my spare time, I enjoy CrossFit, reading/listening to books and podcasts, and finding ways to serve through ministry.

With Jason Diamond and Louis Diamond Overview A companion to our annual Advisor Transition Report, Jason Diamond and Louis Diamond unpack what’s driving advisor movement in 2025, and what the data reveals about control, growth, and where the industry is heading. Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. Watch… https://youtu.be/JJGz4N0Y4UI About this episode… After thirty years of counseling financial advisors – including many of the most successful in the industry – we started to see patterns emerge. Sure, every advisor’s situation is unique. And firms evolve, markets change, and business models shift. But the underlying questions advisors wrestle with around control, growth, and enterprise value tend to repeat themselves. Increasingly, the answers to those questions are revealed in the data—that is, when you know where to look. This is exactly why we go through the yearly process of creating our Advisor Transition Report. And this year’s edition doesn’t disappoint. (If you haven’t downloaded your copy yet, get the latest edition here.) Just from raw numbers alone, here’s a spoiler alert: 11,172 experienced advisors changed firms in 2025 compared to 9,615 in 2024. In this companion podcast episode, Jason and Louis take a deeper dive into the data and provide additional color on: What’s actually driving that level of movement? Where are advisors going and why? Which firms are the winners? And who’s losing the recruiting game? What models have become most attractive to advisors and why? What’s the impact of AI on the role of the advisor and movement—and how will it shape the industry at large? How is the balance of power between advisors and firms evolving? Plus, they dive into some real-world transition case studies to further illustrate what’s driving change. It’s an episode that provides an inside perspective on the trends behind advisor movement and recruiting, and the potential impact on advisors and business owners alike. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources The 4th Annual Advisor Transition ReportA data-driven look at where advisors are moving, why they’re making changes, and what it means for your business in 2026.

With Todd Stankiewicz, President & CIO, and Joe Castiglie, COO & CIO – SYKON Capital Overview Todd Stankiewicz and Joe Castiglie of SYKON Capital join Jason Diamond to discuss redefining success after Merrill, launching their own RIA, and how independence allowed them to combine institutional-caliber investing with behavioral insights to deliver peace of mind to clients. Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. Watch… https://youtu.be/EoWNsiS_-AA About this episode… For many advisors, success at a wirehouse is relatively easy to measure by assets, production, and growth. But what happens when those metrics don’t reflect what should come by way of success—that is, a sense of feeling fulfilled? This episode dives into the moment when two successful Merrill advisors realized that growth alone wasn’t the true measure of their success: it was delivering on their vision of providing real peace of mind to their clients. And that required a broader toolkit than the traditional model allowed. So, Todd Stankiewicz and Joe Castiglie decided to launch their own RIA, SYKON Capital, and build a firm grounded in full control from investment philosophy to client experience to culture. With Jason Diamond, Todd and Joe unpack their story, including: The turning point in their conversations—and when it shifted from “We’re building something successful here,” to “We might want to build something of our own.” Their definition of success—and how it evolved over time. Their introduction to the independent community—and why it changed their perspective. Their unique combination of institutional-caliber investment management and behavioral insight—and why they felt they could only achieve it in an independent model. The operational and leadership perspective—and what they found to be the biggest and most surprising challenges in launching an independent firm. For advisors who are successful where they are — but quietly wondering if there’s more on the other side — this conversation will challenge how you define control, growth, and impact. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources Diamond Consultants Merrill Advisor Transition Report 2025 This annual “firm-focused report” takes a closer look at advisor movement to and from Merrill during the first half of 2025. Intentional Growth: How Top Advisors Build Businesses That Last Markets can be a tailwind, but building a durable business requires intention and a plan. Here are 5 core practices from the industry’s elite. Why So Many Successful Advisors Feel Stuck They’ve built thriving businesses. Strong production. Loyal clients. Growing teams. So why do so many successful advisors quietly wonder, “Why doesn’t this feel as good as I expected?” This episode tackles the psychology of success and what comes after it. Todd Stankiewicz President, CIO As President and Chief Investment Officer of SYKON Capital, I lead a firm built around one simple idea: it’s not just about the money, it’s about what your money enables you to do. We combine values-based financial planning with institutional-grade investment management, all grounded in behavioral insights. That means fewer cookie-cutter strategies and more tailored, actionable guidance that meets you where you are, and helps you get where you want to go. Whether you’re navigating a major life transition, looking to scale your wealth, or simply want more clarity and control, we’re here to simplify the complex and deliver advice that actually feels personal. Because at SYKON, we don’t just manage portfolios. We help people live better, more intentional lives. Joseph P. Castiglie III CFA As Chief Operating Officer and Chief Investment Officer of SYKON Capital, I am responsible for leading the firm’s investment strategy and overseeing day-to-day operational excellence — all with a singular focus: helping clients achieve meaningful, lasting financial outcomes. At SYKON, we work to ensure every element of the client experience is intentional, streamlined, and aligned with each individual’s goals and stage of life. From portfolio design to strategic planning and firm-wide processes, my approach reflects SYKON’s mission to meet clients where they are and guide them with clarity and care. By combining disciplined investment oversight with practical, real-world insight, I help deliver personalized financial strategies that support confident decision-making and long-term success.

With Dylan Ripley & Todd Vincent – Managing Partners and Financial Planners, Cedarwood Financial Partners Overview Todd Vincent and Dylan Ripley join Mindy Diamond to share the reality of leaving Edward Jones, defending a two-year lawsuit, and still nearly doubling their business. A candid look at resilience, and what really happens when the firm pushes back. Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. Watch… https://youtu.be/G5-oAHz5kWQ About this episode… For many advisors considering change, the concern about legal retaliation from their firm often lingers in the background. But what if you move and that fear comes to fruition? What will it do to your business? And what if – instead of derailing you – it ultimately becomes a catalyst for growth? Every transition comes with some risk and uncertainty—even when you dot every “i” and cross every “t.” And a non-Protocol move adds an extra layer of complexity. This episode’s guests, Todd Vincent and Dylan Ripley, learned all that firsthand. Todd spent nearly 30 years at Edward Jones, and Dylan built his career there over more than a decade, eventually partnering with Todd in a multi-office practice overseeing close to $1B in assets. Over time, they realized they could do more for their clients – and grow the business faster – if they stepped outside the traditional firm model. In exploration, they liked the idea of having a support partner rather than building their own RIA and ultimately opted for Commonwealth Financial Network to launch Cedarwood Financial Partners. The transition itself went smoothly—that is, until they found themselves navigating a lawsuit from Edward Jones that lasted nearly two years. In one of our most candid episodes yet, Todd and Dylan walk through that experience with Mindy Diamond, sharing: The choice to leave Edward Jones—and what specifically motivated them to consider change. The initial transition—and when they learned they had “poked the bear.” The reality of defending a lawsuit—and how they worked through it. The value of messaging—and how partnering with a marketing firm was a gamechanger. Nearly doubling their assets under management, despite the lawsuit—and what key traits drove their success. It’s an episode that answers the question on every advisor’s mind, “What happens if the firm sues me?” and does so with candor and grace. Listen in to learn how resilience drives what comes next: how advisors can steady themselves, rebuild momentum, and grow on the other side of a challenge. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources Top Tips for Setting Your Business Up for Success Years Before a MoveWhether you’re just exploring what’s out there or actively conducting due diligence, these insights will help you position your business and team for success, whenever the time is right. How to Avoid the Dreaded TRO: Legal Strategies for Advisors in TransitionAs TROs and lawsuits make headlines, two top attorneys who represented Merrill breakaways OpenArc, share how advisors can minimize risk, protect client relationships, and make a clean move with confidence. Dylan RipleyCEO / Financial Planner After serving his clients at Edward Jones for almost ten years, Dylan Ripley co-founded Cedarwood Financial Partners in 2022 following a tabletop discussion on how he and his partner could better serve their clients, scratching out their vision on a napkin. From that initial napkin chat, he began diligently working to make this vision a reality through extensive research and sweat equity. Dylan holds a Bachelor of Business Management from the Carlos Alvarez School of Business at The University of Texas–San Antonio. After joining Edward Jones, he earned the Accredited Asset Management Specialist certification through the College of Financial Planning. He has a passion to serve others and does so through his service to clients and his community involvement. He is a current member of the Rotary Club of Temple, serving on the board for two years. He’s also a small group leader at his church and active in local Chamber of Commerce events. Most recently he was asked to serve on the advisory board for the Salvation Army of Bell County. Dylan and his wife, Cayleigh, have three children. When he’s not serving his clients or community, he can be found experiencing the world with his family, chasing kiddos around a ball field, golfing, or attending any live concert he can.   Todd VincentChairman / Financial Planner Todd Vincent co-founded Cedarwood Financial Partners after serving his clients at Edward Jones for twenty-six years. Prior to Edward Jones, Todd served four years in the U.S. Army as a field artillery officer with the 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, Texas. Todd earned his Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry and Economics from Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. He also holds a Master of Theology (ThM) from Dallas Theological Seminary. Todd and his wife, Stefanie, have three young adult children. As a family, they are active in their community and their church. They are an adventurous family who loves travel and outdoor activities. They reside on a 142–acre game ranch they share with others who desire rest, renewal, and recreation. Todd’s favorite hobbies include camping, hunting, and riding his Harley-Davidson. Todd specializes in finding creative methods to produce retirement income and efficient wealth transfer strategies.

With James Poer, CEO Kestra Holdings, John Amore, President Kestra Financial and Fayez Muhtadie, Co-Head of Private Equity at Stone Point Capital Overview Louis Diamond sits down with James Poer (Kestra Holdings), John Amore (Kestra Financial), and Fayez Muhtadie (Stone Point Capital), who share unique vantage points of how scale, private equity, and alignment shape enterprise value in today’s wealth management landscape. Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. Watch… https://youtu.be/jqE5vfTRewc About this episode… As advisory practices grow larger and more sophisticated, the definition of success is shifting. For many advisors, it’s no longer just about income or payout. It’s about ownership, alignment, and building something that carries real enterprise value. That shift raises important questions, such as: What does scale actually enable? How should advisors think about capital? And what does alignment really look like between firm leadership, capital providers, and the advisors they serve? To explore that, we invited three guests who see this from unique vantage points. James Poer, who leads Kestra Holdings, John Amore, who oversees the strategy and execution behind Kestra Financial’s growth, and Fayez Muhtadie, who represents Stone Point Capital, Kestra’s private equity partner. Kestra today operates one of the larger independent wealth management ecosystems in the country, supporting roughly 1,450 advisors and overseeing more than $160B in assets across its broker dealer and RIA platforms. Stone Point, for its part, is a financial services-focused private equity firm with decades of experience investing in banks, asset managers, insurers, and wealth platforms. Together, they represent a scaled, privately backed model that has become increasingly common in our industry. In this episode with Louis Diamond, they unpack what they describe as “multiple ways to win” actually means inside a platform of this size, including: The Kestra ecosystem—and how the firm has evolved from its founding to spin-off from NPF. The value of private equity ownership—and how common misconceptions impact the positive potential. The importance of cultural alignment—and how it can be preserved as firms grow. Growth and scale—and why James believes this business is not an income game, but a wealth game. Plus, the questions advisors should be asking when assessing their current firm or platform. If you’re evaluating scale, ownership, or long-term enterprise value in your business, this is a conversation worth hearing. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources Is Scale a Necessary Evil in Wealth Management?Scale can provide a competitive advantage. Yet there might be scenarios in which bigger isn’t always better. Wealth Management Landscape at a GlanceThe wealth management industry offers more options than ever, making it challenging to identify and compare the various models. We created this “at a glance” continuum infographic—to help you navigate the different models and understand how their features stack up. How to Set Up Your Business to Maximize Enterprise ValueJason and Louis Diamond explore strategies for maximizing enterprise value, whether or not an advisor plans to move. Learn actionable insights, key business practices, short-term vs. long-term tactics, and real-world examples. James PoerChief Executive Officer of Kestra Holdings James Poer is Chief Executive Officer of Kestra Holdings, an ecosystem of companies empowering high-performing financial advisors to achieve lasting independence. Together, Kestra’s businesses deliver a full end-to-end suite of wealth management solutions for success driven and entrepreneurial-focused financial professionals, including investment solutions, technology services, succession and monetization, insurance and planning services, trust services, and back-office support. James most recently chaired the Financial Services Institute (FSI) Board of Directors after serving for several years on the board. He currently sits on the Board of Advisors for the Langston Wealth Management Center at The University of Texas at Austin’s McComb’s School of Business, serves as Chair of Arden Trust Company’s Board of Directors, and is a member of the Board of Kestra Holdings. A true native Texan and alum of Texas Christian University, James currently resides in Austin, Texas. John AmorePresident of Kestra Financial As the President of industry-leading wealth management company Kestra Financial, John is committed to building out capabilities that empower the success of Kestra’s financial advisors and the financial independence of their clients. Through a comprehensive suite of offerings across portfolio construction, investment products, advisory services, financial planning, retirement plans, alternative investments, and insurance solutions, John and his team are focused on helping Kestra’s advisors thrive in a community of complete wealth managers. Prior to his role as President, John served as Head of Wealth Management for Kestra Financial, leveraging his global leadership experience to ensure every aspect of Kestra’s wealth management offering drives growth and innovation, enabling financial professionals to accomplish their business objectives. John has had the privilege of leading wealth management teams for more than 14 years in the United States, Europe, and Latin America. Prior to joining Kestra Financial, he led global businesses at UBS across financial planning, portfolio construction, estate planning, wealth planning, investment products, and trust solutions. John began his career in management consulting in the financial services sector and earned his MBA/MIA at Columbia University and his BS at Boston College. Fayez MuhtadieCO-HEAD OF PRIVATE EQUITY Fayez is Co-Head of Private Equity at Stone Point Capital and a member of the Investment Committees of the Trident Funds. He has more than 25 years of experience in the private equity and investment banking industries. Fayez helps to lead Stone Point Capital’s global investments in asset & wealth management, business services, employee benefits & human capital management, insurance run-off and lending & markets. Fayez joined Stone Point in 2003.

With Jim Dickson — Founding Partner and CEO, Elevation Point Overview Louis Diamond speaks with the founder and CEO of Elevation Point about building a next-generation independent platform focused on ownership, minority capital, data strategy, and scalable, durable advisory firms. Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. Watch… https://youtu.be/D0-y8Q-DYvg About this episode… For decades, advisors operated under the assumption that there was a single path to success—a defined route dominated by the largest and most prominent firms. Over time, the landscape of options expanded, and the independent space matured. With it came a new set of challenges: how to turn the pursuit of freedom and control into something durable, scalable, and ultimately into a true enterprise. Jim Dickson has been thinking through that challenge for most of his career. After two decades at Merrill, Jim went on to found Sanctuary Wealth (a story we shared earlier in this series), where he played a central role in shaping what supportive independence could look like for growing advisory teams. Today, his own journey has entered a new chapter with Elevation Point—a next-generation independent platform focused on helping advisors take business ownership to a new level, with alignment, scalability, and long-term value at the core. In this episode, Jim and Louis Diamond talk about what led Jim to this new chapter, including: Elevation Point’s unique value proposition—and how it fills a gap in the landscape. The value of capital—and how Elevation Point adds value along the way. Increasing enterprise value—and what advisors can do to grow without sacrificing control. Ownership and alignment—and why “how much of the pie you actually own” becomes more important as firms grow. Growth and partnership—and what it really means to build a firm intentionally over time. AI, data, and technology—and how each can support better decision-making. This is a story about yet another evolution in the landscape of options available to advisors—and why the future of independence is less about exits and more about elevation. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources The Right Way to Build a TeamThree strategies to create a foundation designed to foster long-term alignment and growth—and, ultimately, a legacy. MaxCeV™: How to Maximize Your Career Enterprise ValueThis tool breaks down four key factors that contribute to career enterprise value, offering a framework for advisors to conceptualize and achieve their full potential. An Advisor’s Guide to 2026: What 2025 Set in Motion and What Comes NextAs 2026 comes into focus, advisors face a new set of strategic questions. This Industry Update explores the forces reshaping growth, deal structures, and enterprise value—and what those shifts may signal for the new year and beyond. JIM DICKSON FOUNDING PARTNER AND CEO  Jim Dickson is a seasoned executive, entrepreneur, private investor, and innovator in wealth management with over four decades of experience in the financial services industry. Renowned for his advocacy for independent financial advisors, Jim is a visionary leader with experience in designing and implementing high-growth strategies for advisory firms.  Jim’s deep understanding of the industry landscape positions him as a driving force behind transformative change, empowering advisors and firms to thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace. His growth mindset for RIAs and independence-seeking advisors prioritizes an “advisor-first” approach, tailored to an advisor’s values and long-term vision.  Jim co-founded Elevation Point with Mark Penske in 2024 to serve as a value-aligned growth partner to independence-focused advisors and RIAs. Jim previously founded and built nationally recognized wealth management firm Sanctuary Wealth, which he launched in 2018. He was the visionary behind Sanctuary Wealth’s Partnered IndependenceSM platform, providing elite advisors with all of the tools, services, and resources needed to fully and effectively serve their clients. Under Jim’s leadership, it grew rapidly into one of the industry’s top RIA firms, with more than $25 billion in assets and 76 partner firms in 28 states by 2023, when he left the firm.  Prior to Sanctuary Wealth, Jim spent 20 years as a senior divisional executive building and leading strategy for Merrill Lynch in Indianapolis and Chicago. He began his career as an accountant at Ernst & Young in Indianapolis.  Jim received his bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance from Butler University, where he later served on the Board of Trustees for six years. He has been a leadership conference judge for FFA, a national non-profit organization preparing middle and high school students for careers in agricultural science, business, and technology.

With Louis Diamond and Mindy Diamond Overview They’ve built thriving businesses. Strong production. Loyal clients. Growing teams.So why do so many successful advisors quietly wonder, “Why doesn’t this feel as good as I expected?” This episode tackles the psychology of success and what comes after it. Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. Watch… https://youtu.be/nrmtRBlJJVs About this episode… We often speak with advisors who, by every external measure, are exceptionally well-performing. They’ve built real businesses, with strong production, loyal clients, and teams that continue to grow. Yet behind closed doors, many of these same advisors are quietly asking a different set of questions. Not “How do I fix what’s broken?” but “Why doesn’t this feel as good as I expected?” That tension is showing up more often than it did five or ten years ago. It’s not because advisors are failing. In many cases, it’s because they’ve won and now face another 15 or 20 years of “more of the same,” unsure whether comfort has replaced energy. This Industry Update is about that moment. Louis and Mindy Diamond unpack what we’re hearing from successful advisors across the industry: What feels different for successful advisors vs. five or ten years ago. Why success itself can become a constraint. How fear of change competes with fear of standing still. What the reality is regarding freedom and control. Why record valuations, longer careers, and the maturity of the independent space are changing the psychology of decision-making. They also discuss the right questions to ask before considering a move – questions about control, enterprise value, legacy, and time horizon – and how all advisors can create clarity without forcing a decision. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources How to Free Yourself from the “If Only” MindsetHere are the 5 most common self-limiting statements that advisors share—and ways to reframe your thinking. Limitless Growth: Building the Business You Want and the Life to MatchStephanie Bogan, founder of Limitless Advisor, offers a glimpse into the advice and perspective she shares with advisors and business leaders in the wealth management world, focusing on mindset and methods, and their relationship to achieving one’s best business life.  

With Joe Duran – Managing Partner, Rise Growth Partners Overview He’s built and rebuilt some of the industry’s most successful firms and now he’s helping others do the same. In this episode, Joe Duran, the founder of Rise Growth Partners shares lessons from building, selling, and starting again, and how staying curious and adaptable fuels lasting success. Watch… Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. About this episode… Joe Duran’s career has always been about reaching new heights—and then helping others climb on their own. A proverbial mountain climber himself, Joe built and sold two of the most successful firms in the RIA space: Centurion Capital and United Capital. Today, Joe sees himself as a sherpa—guiding the next generation of entrepreneurs through his latest venture, Rise Growth Partners. His story is one of constant reinvention, relentless curiosity, and the humility to keep asking one simple question: “What if I’m wrong?” Joe first joined us on the show back in 2020, shortly after the sale of United Capital to Goldman Sachs. Now, with the benefit of both hindsight and foresight, Joe revisits that experience and explores the mindset behind building truly world-class firms, including: The Goldman experience—and what he learned from the sale of United Capital. The development of Rise—and how he sees it helping to shift the narrative in the industry. Learning from your clients instead of your competitors—and why that’s the real key to building a world-class firm. Finding an investor that can “really help you—and why you need to look beyond “financiers.” Adding services without adding staff—and when you shouldn’t look in-house for solutions. Challenging your assumptions—and how to stay relevant in an industry that never stops changing. And why being great doesn’t necessarily mean being the biggest. Joe also reflects on how the industry can avoid the risk of mega-RIAs repeating the mistakes of the wirehouses. It’s a candid and thought-provoking conversation about reinvention, leadership, value creation, and what it means to evolve from mountain climber to sherpa from one of the industry’s trailblazers. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources Why Settle for “Good Enough” When Great is Possible? In a vastly expanded industry landscape with more high-quality options than ever before, some advisors settle for “good enough” when the potential for “great” is often within reach. What’s holding them back? Limitless Growth: Building the Business You Want and the Life to Match Stephanie Bogan, founder of Limitless Advisor, offers a glimpse into the advice and perspective she shares with advisors and business leaders in the wealth management world, focusing on mindset and methods, and their relationship to achieving one’s best business life. Wealth Management Landscape at a Glance The wealth management industry offers more options than ever, making it challenging to identify and compare the various models. We created this “at a glance” continuum infographic—to help you navigate the different models and understand how their features stack up. Joe Duran Managing Partner Joe Duran is a serial entrepreneur and an industry visionary in wealth management and wealthtech. Early in 2024, Joe and his team launched Rise Growth Partners (‘Rise’), the industry’s first harmonious financial partner. With firsthand experience in building nationally recognized registered investment advisers (RIAs), Rise’s team partners with middle-market RIAs, providing capital and strategic expertise. Previously, Joe was a Partner at Goldman Sachs, serving as Co-Head of the Workplace and Personal Wealth business. He founded and served as CEO of United Capital, one of the nation’s largest independent wealth management firms, which Goldman Sachs acquired in July 2019. Prior to that, he built and sold Centurion Capital–one of the first turnkey asset management platforms–to General Electric, where he served as President of GE Private Asset Management (now listed as NYSE: AMK). Joe is the author of three bestselling books on investing and entrepreneurship. He is a sought-after conference and podcast speaker and appears frequently on a broad spectrum of media, ranging from CNBC to Goop. Joe has MBAs from Columbia University and UC Berkeley, as well as an undergraduate degree from Saint Louis University. He is a CFA Charterholder and a member of the Young President’s Organization (YPO), the world’s largest leadership community of chief executives. A Yogi for decades, he meditates daily and is an avid beach volleyball player. Joe and his wife Jennifer cherish their three daughters and share a love of frequent travel, dining, dancing and live concerts. Also available on your favorite podcast app and other media sites

With Dennis Morton, Founder and Senior Wealth Advisor at Morton Brown Family Wealth Overview For Dennis Morton, succession isn’t a future problem, it’s a leadership obligation. Drawing on his experience as an Army platoon leader and co-founder of an independent firm, he shares how technical competence, accountability, and bold goals drive culture, next-gen leadership, and a business that can thrive beyond any one person.  Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. About this episode… In wealth management, success is often measured by assets, growth, or longevity. But there’s another measure that’s harder to quantify and far more revealing: whether the business you’ve built can thrive without you at its center. For Dennis Morton, succession isn’t a future problem to solve. It’s a leadership obligation. Before co-founding Morton Brown Family Wealth with his partner Katie Brown, Dennis served as a platoon leader in the U.S. Army, including a deployment during the Iraq War. That experience shapes how he approaches leadership today: you have to be technically and tactically competent—but just as important, you have to be accountable to the people you lead. Without this combination, execution breaks down. In this conversation with Jason Diamond, Dennis discusses how that mindset directly informs how Dennis has built his firm, as well as: The road to financial advice—and how a poor experience with an advisor led him to consider joining a training program at Smith Barney. Finding the right partner—and how the ability to be “authentic” drives collaboration. The value of independence—and how it gave them the freedom to communicate openly, market authentically, and simplify complexity for clients. Setting bold, audacious goals—and how that creates clarity for leadership and teams. Cultivating next-generation leaders—and how it became central to his success strategy, not as a contingency plan. His leadership philosophy—and why he feels “you’re not a success without a successor.” This is an episode about stewardship, leadership, and building something that lasts beyond any one person—with important messages for individual advisors and business owners alike. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources Advisors Late in Their Careers: Making Decisions Based on What Matters Most How clarity, legacy, and clients – not just simplicity – should guide your final career choices. Wealth Management Landscape at a Glance We created this “at a glance” continuum infographic—to help you navigate the different models and understand how their features stack up. An Advisor’s Guide to 2026: What 2025 Set in Motion and What Comes Next As 2026 comes into focus, advisors face a new set of strategic questions. This Industry Update explores the forces reshaping growth, deal structures, and enterprise value—and what those shifts may signal for the new year and beyond. Dennis Morton Co-Founder & Senior Wealth Advisor Dennis Morton is the Co-Founder of Morton Brown Family Wealth, a boutique Registered Investment Adviser headquartered in Eastern Pennsylvania, serving individuals and families nationwide. He is a speaker, podcast host, and industry thought leader known for his human-first approach to leadership, culture, and client experience. Founded with a vision to transform the way people experience financial advice, the firm has grown steadily through a relationship-driven model and a strong emphasis on developing people and building meaningful relationships. Dennis leads with a unique blend of strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, and long-term perspective. His advisory relationships are built on trust, deep connection, and a belief that financial planning should serve the whole person, not just the numbers. He is passionate about developing people, building sustainable teams, and creating an environment where both clients and professionals can thrive. A U.S. Army veteran, Dennis was awarded a Bronze Star for his service during Operation Iraqi Freedom. His military experience shaped his leadership style, instilling discipline, accountability, and a strong sense of responsibility. He brings authenticity and integrity into every aspect of his work, with a constant focus on doing what’s right for clients, colleagues, and the community. Dennis’s path to financial advising is unconventional. After earning a degree in history, completing four years of military service, and working in corporate management, he felt called to pursue financial advising. His early experience at a Wall Street wirehouse left him dissatisfied with the limitations of the traditional model, prompting him to leave and build a firm centered on fiduciary responsibility, personal connection, and holistic planning. Deeply rooted in the Lehigh Valley community, Dennis is actively involved in local leadership and service initiatives. This commitment to giving back is embedded in the culture of Morton Brown, where community engagement and meaningful connection are core to the firm’s mission. Dennis is a devoted husband and father of four. Outside the office, he enjoys trail running, fly fishing, hiking, and music. A self-taught guitarist, he values the collaboration and connection music fosters and is intentional about building community among peers through shared interests and experiences. Also available on your favorite podcast app and other media sites

With Jason Wenk—Founder and CEO, Altruist Overview A candid conversation on rethinking custody from the ground up—and why simplification, aligned economics, and integrated technology are becoming critical for advisors building modern, scalable firms. Watch… Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. About this episode… For decades, advisors have built their businesses on custodial infrastructure that was never designed to support how modern firms actually operate. In many cases, fragmented technology stacks, paper-heavy processes, and economic factors often benefit the platform more than the advisor or client. Jason Wenk saw that firsthand. Before launching Altruist, Jason built and scaled FormulaFolios from zero to over $4B in assets—giving him a front-row seat to what works, what breaks, and where traditional custody and technology create friction as firms grow. Rather than layering another tool on top of an already complex system, Jason made a far more ambitious bet: to rebuild custody, technology, and economics from the ground up as a single, fully integrated platform. In this conversation with host Louis Diamond, Jason pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to build a next-generation custodian, including: The myths around custody and brand—and why the next wave of growth may belong to firms willing to rethink the infrastructure they build on. Challenging long-standing assumptions around custody—and why Altruist built a vertically integrated solution from the ground up. The advantages of vertical integration—and why simplification, automation, and aligned economics are becoming essential to advisor growth. The real cost of complexity—and why so many advisors and business owners underestimate it. The value of AI and automation—and how Jason sees it will reshape the next-generation RIA. It’s a thoughtful, candid look at the future of custody and what it means for advisors who want to build scalable, modern businesses. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources The Future of Prospecting: How AI Is Powering the Next Era of Advisor Growth FINNY Co-Founder Eden Ovadia shares how AI is transforming advisor prospecting: automating outreach, matching advisors with ideal clients, and freeing time for deeper human connection. A forward-looking conversation on what growth will look like in the next era of wealth management. The Four Horsemen of the Independent Apocalypse Model or partner misalignment is often the driver of these four common frustrations independent advisors encounter. Wealth Management Landscape at a Glance We created this “at a glance” continuum infographic—to help you navigate the different models and understand how their features stack up. Jason Wenk Founder and CEO Jason Wenk is the Founder and CEO of Altruist, the only modern custodian that’s fully digital, vertically integrated, and built exclusively for RIAs. Jason has lived and breathed the financial services industry over the last 25 years as a financial advisor, investment systems developer, analyst, and founder of his previous company, FormulaFolios. With Jason as CEO, FormulaFolios achieved a 13,927% 3-year growth rate and managed over $3.2 billion. This rapid growth ranked the firm as a fastest-growing private company in the country by Inc. magazine 4 years in a row, reaching as high as #10. Jason was also recently named a national EY Entrepreneur of the Year in 2018. Also available on your favorite podcast app and other media sites

With Tim Krueger, Co-Founder and Partner at Krueger, Fosdyck, Brown, McCall & Associates – NewEdge Advisors, LLC Overview For many advisors, the real question isn’t how big the business becomes—but what happens next. This episode explores how Tim Krueger and his $1.4B Merrill team rethought succession, liquidity, and legacy to create long-term continuity. Watch… Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. About this episode… For many advisors, success is defined by growth: more clients, more assets, more revenue. But at some point, the question shifts from, “How big can we build this?” to “What happens next?” After nearly two decades at Merrill, Tim Krueger and his partners had built a $1.4B practice and one of the most successful teams in their market. By any traditional measure, the internal sunset path would have been the simplest option. But simplicity wasn’t the goal. Protecting clients, creating opportunities for the next generation, and preserving the culture they had built mattered more. That led Tim and his partners to make a very different decision: to break away from the wirehouse, sell out of that environment entirely, and align with NewEdge Advisors in a way that solved for succession, liquidity, and long-term continuity—simultaneously. In this conversation with Louis Diamond, Tim shares how focusing on other people’s needs – clients, teammates, and future leaders – became the ultimate growth strategy. Plus, they discuss: Lessons learned over nearly two decades at Merrill—and how structure, team building, and next gen cultivation become paramount. Stepping away from Merrill’s CTP retire-in-place program—and what other business owners shared with him that inspired the decision to leave the wirehouse. Opting to align with NewEdge Advisors—and how liquidity and continuity were key factors. “Shrinking to grow”—and why it isn’t just a portfolio philosophy, but a business one. Monetizing the business—and how the process can be a new beginning for the business, not an end for the business owners. Building a true runway for G2 and G3—and how it can create a rare win-win-win for founders, teams, and clients alike. It’s a candid look at what life after a wirehouse can unlock—and how thinking differently about succession can redefine both legacy and fulfillment. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources Diamond Consultants Merrill Advisor Transition Report This annual “firm-focused report” takes a closer look at advisor movement to and from Merrill during the first half of 2025. The Transition Roundtable: Merrill, UBS, Wells, and Morgan Advisors Reflect on Their Paths Four top advisors who each left a major firm share how they built successful independent businesses on their own terms. Originally recorded as a live webinar, this candid roundtable explores the real fears, challenges, and opportunities of transition, and what advisors wish they’d known before making the leap. Shrink to Grow: Why Advisors are Making the “Strategic Decision” to Let Go of Assets In a world where bigger is considered better, many of Wall Street’s most talented and productive advisors are opting to go against the grain and leave chips on the table. Tim Krueger With over four decades years of experience in financial services, Tim Krueger is a recognized leader in wealth management. As Co-Founder and Partner at KFBMA, Tim provides strategic oversight for the firm’s vision, growth, and operational excellence. He guides key initiatives, mentors advisors, and ensures that KFBMA remains at the forefront of industry’s best practices, delivering a client experience defined by trust, innovation, and results. Drawing on decades of experience in private wealth management, Tim combines strategic insight with deep expertise in investment planning, risk mitigation, and tax-efficient strategies. His commitment to building enduring relationships ensures that every recommendation is tailored to deliver meaningful, long-term results aligned with each client’s goals and family priorities Tim is known for creating comprehensive, highly personalized wealth management strategies that reflect the goals, values, and family priorities of his clients. His approach combines strategic insight with a commitment to building lasting relationships, ensuring advice that drives meaningful, long-term results that align with each client’s goals and family priorities. In 2025, Tim partnered with Cory Fosdyck, Jerry Brown, and Collin McCall to establish Krueger, Fosdyck, Brown, McCall & Associates (KFBMA)—an evolution of the highly regarded Krueger, Fosdyck & Associates team that operated under Merrill Lynch Wealth Management from 2006 to 2025. Beyond his professional achievements, Tim is a passionate community advocate. He has emceed numerous charitable events in the Destin area and served as Chair of the American Cancer Society’s Cattle Barons’ Ball (2008–2009) and Chairman of the Safety & Public Works Committee for the City of Destin. Today, Tim continues to make an impact as a Trustee of the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, charter sponsor of Sinfonia Gulf Coast, and supporter of the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation and Special Operators Transition Foundation. Tim also serves on the board of directors of DEFENSEWERX the nation’s largest 501(c)(3) organization of its kind, dedicated to enabling agile innovation for government partners through a network of innovation hubs across the country. Recognition & Honors: Named to Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors list (2022–2025) Named to Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams list (2023–2025) Also available on your favorite podcast app and other media sites

With Jason Ozur, Founding Partner, Chief Executive Officer, Lido Advisors Overview As firms pursue scale, advisors face a critical question: how do you grow without compromising the client experience? Jason Ozur joins the show to explore what intentional growth really looks like and what scale can enable when culture and clarity come first. Watch… Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. About this episode… Over the last decade, scale has become one of the defining themes in wealth management. Larger firms promise broader resources, deeper infrastructure, and expanded opportunity. But they also raise a fair question: at what point does growth begin to work against the client experience it’s meant to enhance? That’s the center of today’s conversation. Jason Ozur and his partners at Lido Advisors have built one of the largest RIAs in the country, managing more than $40B in assets, while maintaining a family-office mindset and a distinctly client-first culture. What’s notable is not just the firm’s growth, but how intentionally it has been pursued. Jason talks about Lido’s growth story and more with Jason Diamond, including: The real constraints on growth—and the roles of culture, capital, and clients. The role of the wirehouses in the modern landscape and how the RIA model differs. The realities of scale—and what it enables when done thoughtfully. The concept of “bigger is better”—and why Jason sees that as an oversimplification. Integration versus aggregation—and how Lido evaluates acquisitions. The evolving role of private equity in the RIA space—and why access to capital doesn’t have to come at the expense of independence or client outcomes. It’s a candid look at what sustainable growth actually means—and what advisors and owners should consider as firms across the industry continue to grow. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources Is Scale a Necessary Evil in Wealth Management? Scale can provide a competitive advantage. Yet there might be scenarios in which bigger isn’t always better. How to Set Up Your Business to Maximize Enterprise Value Jason and Louis Diamond explore strategies for maximizing enterprise value, whether or not an advisor plans to move. Learn actionable insights, key business practices, short-term vs. long-term tactics, and real-world examples. IBD vs. RIA – Which Model Fits Your Future This guide offers a clear, side-by-side view of the two models—including distinctions between the DIY route of building an RIA from scratch and opting for a supportive independence platform to help align your business goals with greater options and opportunities. Jason Ozur Chief Executive Officer Jason Ozur is the Chief Executive Officer of Lido Advisors, where he considers client focus central to his leadership and devotes significant time and attention to the individuals and families he serves. Based in Los Angeles, he also serves as Co-Chair of the investment committee, overseeing Lido’s alternative investment platform and leading due diligence on real estate oriented strategies. A Certified Public Accountant, Jason earned his B.S. from California State University at Northridge before beginning his career in public accounting. He worked as a CPA performing audits, preparing tax returns, and providing back-office services for numerous hedge funds. In 1999, he joined a large family investment office, becoming part of the team that managed the family’s substantial investments. During this time, he also served as CFO of the family’s worldwide water conservation company, which operated in more than 22 countries, and later provided financial oversight as controller for a multi-billion-dollar Los Angeles–based hedge fund. In addition to his executive and investment responsibilities, Jason is deeply committed to shaping Lido’s culture. He takes an active mentorship role within the firm, fostering an environment rooted in progression, excellence, and integrity. Also available on your favorite podcast app and other media sites

With Jason Diamond and Louis Diamond Overview As 2026 comes into focus, advisors face a new set of strategic questions. This Industry Update explores the forces reshaping growth, deal structures, and enterprise value—and what those shifts may signal for the new year and beyond. Watch… Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. About this episode… Over the last year, we’ve seen meaningful shifts in how advisors think about growth, long-term strategy, and enterprise-value creation. Some of those changes were obvious. Others were quieter, but no less consequential. And with 2025 in the rearview mirror, the real question becomes: What does it all mean for the year ahead? Before this recording, we published our annual Of Myths and Moving article—a retrospective look at the narratives that shaped advisor decision-making in 2025. This conversation builds on that foundation, but with a different objective: to share perspectives on what the road ahead may look like. Listen in as Jason and Louis discuss: The most prominent developments from 2025—and those we believe will continue to compound and serve as inflection points for advisors and firms. Evolving deal structures—and what that means for advisors considering change. The business models under increasing pressure—and where we expect the most advisor movement to come from next. Creative capital constructs—and how it may impact the movement of top teams. The realities around growth and scale—and how expectations are shifting across the industry. The role of tech and AI—and whether advisors and firms will see advancements as a friend or foe. It’s an annual episode designed to help advisors think more clearly about the forces shaping their businesses and how to position themselves thoughtfully for what comes next. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources Of Myths and Moving: 2025 6 common misconceptions in the wealth management industry that have new meaning for financial advisors in the coming year. The Transition Roundtable: Merrill, UBS, Wells, and Morgan Advisors Reflect on Their Paths Four top advisors who each left a major firm share how they built successful independent businesses on their own terms. Originally recorded as a live webinar, this candid roundtable explores the real fears, challenges, and opportunities of transition, and what advisors wish they’d known before making the leap. Top Tips for Setting Your Business Up for Success Years Before a Move Even if a move is years away, or just a possibility, these insights will help you position your business and team for success, whenever the time is right. Also available on your favorite podcast app and other media sites

With Sam Anderson, Chief Capital Officer and Co-Head of Dynasty Investment Bank at Dynasty Financial Partners LLC Overview Advisors are now weighing options once reserved for institutional executives. This conversation examines how a collaborative initiative between Diamond Consultants and Dynasty Investment Bank delivers objective, investment-banking-level analysis to help advisors evaluate value, control, and long-term outcomes with clarity. Watch… [video_embed embed_style=”default” url=”https://youtu.be/M5kzYVo-XVM” border=”0″ width=”100%” animation=”left-to-right” animation_delay=”2″ class=””] Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. About this episode… For the largest and most sophisticated advisory teams, the industry has reached an inflection point. Private equity continues to reshape valuations and deal structures. Retire-in-place programs at the wirehouses have become meaningfully more competitive. And multi-billion-dollar teams increasingly find themselves evaluating not just where to go next, but why—and what each option means from both a strategic and financial perspective. Yet one thing has become clear: Most advisors have never had access to true investment-banking-level analysis around value, liquidity, and long-term economics. As a result, they’ve been making the biggest decisions of their careers with incomplete or incomparable information. That gap is exactly what inspired the creation of the Breakaway Investment Banking Initiative—a joint effort between Diamond Consultants and the Dynasty Investment Bank designed to bring objective, institutional-grade financial insight into the advisor decision-making process. Sam Anderson, Chief Capital Officer and Co-Head of Dynasty Investment Bank at Dynasty Financial Partners, joins Louis Diamond to discuss the backstory and how this collaborative initiative can benefit elite advisors and teams, including: The breakaway landscape—and what’s changed in recent years. Private equity—and how it has influenced expectations. Autonomy vs. economics—and how to resolve the often-competing priorities. Short-term liquidity—and what its potential impact could be on long-term value. It’s an objective, candid look at the strategic and financial considerations that shape the biggest decisions large advisory teams will ever make—and how the Breakaway Investment Banking Initiative is designed to provide greater clarity to help advisors make critical decisions. Dynasty Investment Bank services are offered through Dynasty Securities, LLC, a broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of Dynasty Financial Partners, LLC. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources The Breakaway Investment Bank Initiative A single, coordinated framework for elite advisors that prioritizes objectivity, clarity, and long-term value. Dynasty Financial Partners and Diamond Consultants Partner to Launch the Breakaway Investment Banking Initiative Dynasty Financial Partners and Diamond Consultants, proudly unveil a unique initiative for top-tier wirehouse and broker-dealer advisor teams across the United States. The Missing Narrative of the $129B Merrill Breakaway Story The largest (and quite possibly most significant) advisor breakaway in industry history made news this week. Yet instead of leading with the scale or significance of the move, headlines centered on Merrill’s lawsuit alleging corporate raiding. Sam Anderson Chief Capital Officer, Co-Head of Investment Banking Sam Anderson is the Co-Head of Dynasty Investment Bank at Dynasty Financial Partners LLC. Prior to joining Dynasty, Sam was Senior Managing Director and a member of the Management Committee at Medley Management Inc. Prior to joining Medley, Sam was Head of Commercial Finance M&A within the Financial Institutions Investment Banking Group at Goldman Sachs. Prior to joining Goldman Sachs, Sam was a member of the Investment Banking Financial Services Group at Bank of America. Prior to his time at Bank of America, Sam held various positions at Citi Smith Barney. Sam is from New Portland Maine, a graduate of Bates College where he received his BA in Economics and was Captain of the Bates NCAA Division I alpine ski team. Sam currently lives in Vail Colorado with his wife Lisa and their three children. Sam and family are active in numerous local charities with a focus on youth sports. Also available on your favorite podcast app and other media sites

With Brandon Ross, CFP® — Co-Founder and Co-CEO, Quotient Wealth Partners Overview Quotient Wealth Partners proves that enterprise-scale growth doesn’t require private equity or shortcuts. This episode breaks down how discipline, culture, and organic momentum drove the firm’s rise to $4.4B—without sacrificing independence or client experience. Watch… Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. About this episode… When you look at the most successful advisory firms in the industry, many grew through acquisition, capital partners, or transition deals. But there’s another version of growth: one built through discipline, culture, and a relentless focus on doing the work. Today’s guest, Brandon Ross, has lived that journey from every angle. Before launching Quotient Wealth Partners, he built Peak Capital. Peak merged with Joe Duran’s United Capital early in its rise and later experienced the shift to a large-firm environment when United was acquired by Goldman Sachs. After years of experience across the spectrum – from independent to aggregator to Wall Street firm – Brandon identified the best elements of each model. So, when Brandon and his partners launched Quotient, they were intentional about what they carried forward and what they left behind. Ultimately, they created a firm with the freedom of independence, the scale of a modern enterprise, and a culture where growth starts at the top (not with a checkbook). It’s a philosophy that’s paid off. In just two years, Quotient has grown from $2.5B to $4.4B in AUM, powered almost entirely by organic momentum. The elements of Quotient’s success—and how they combined the innovation of Goldman Sachs, the independence of an RIA, and the drive of a startup. Launching their RIA—and why they chose the Dynasty Financial Partners platform. Building a growth engine—and how they turned it into a repeatable playbook. Advisor training programs—and how they create an unwavering focus on the client experience. Their referral culture—and how that powers their organic growth. Plus, Brandon explains why they’ve resisted private equity, why “sweat equity is the best equity,” how they’ve scaled without losing their entrepreneurial edge, and more. Listen in for a valuable growth story, grounded by a transitional experience few can offer. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources The Good News on Marketing: An Industry Legend on How to Grow Bigger Faster A free session on accelerating growth via marketing with one of the leading firms in the wealth management industry. They offer advice on the value of content, the referral process, building strategic partnerships, CRMs and technology, and much more. A Strategic Guide to the Supported RIA Model While the model has become a go-to for advisors seeking independence, understanding the variety of types and options can be challenging. Here’s a breakdown of what advisors need to know. Brandon Ross Co-Founder and Co-CEO Brandon Ross is a Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Quotient Wealth Partners, an independent wealth management firm. Brandon, along with his dedicated partners, established the firm with a shared vision of delivering memorable client experiences while nurturing a thriving and positive employee culture. With over 26 years of expertise as a Certified Financial Planner, Brandon brings a wealth of experience to the firm, its advisors, and its clients. He is deeply committed to providing comprehensive financial planning and guidance tailored to each client’s unique needs and objectives. Prior to starting Quotient Wealth Partners, Brandon held key positions, Co-Founder of Peak Capital Investment Services, Managing Director/Head of Office at Goldman Sachs, PFM. Brandon holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Oklahoma State University. Beyond the firm, he finds joy in teeing it up on the golf course, watching sports, and cherishing moments with friends and family. Brandon and his wife Nicole are proud parents to two their two daughters, Sierra and Haley. Also available on your favorite podcast app and other media sites

With Eden Ovadia, Co-Founder of FINNY Overview FINNY Co-Founder Eden Ovadia shares how AI is transforming advisor prospecting: automating outreach, matching advisors with ideal clients, and freeing time for deeper human connection. A forward-looking conversation on what growth will look like in the next era of wealth management. Watch… [video_embed embed_style=”default” url=”https://youtu.be/YmXmI_rycjU” border=”0″ width=”100%” animation=”left-to-right” animation_delay=”2″ class=””] Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. About this episode… Growth is every advisor’s goal—but it’s also one of the biggest challenges. Traditional prospecting requires time, effort, and often a readiness to do things most advisors prefer to avoid: networking, cold outreach, or endless follow-ups. Eden Ovadia and her co-founders developed FINNY to change that. Using artificial intelligence, FINNY automatically identifies and matches advisors with ideal prospects (those who share their values, interests, and financial needs) and even reaches out on the advisor’s behalf with personalized messages across multiple channels. The result? A platform that helps advisors grow while doing less work. It’s what Eden calls the “holy grail of growth.” Eden joins Louis Diamond in this episode to explore how AI is transforming client acquisition and what it means for the future of advice, including: Eden’s background—and what she learned at Y Combinator and BCG that shaped FINNY’s vision. FINNY’s data engine—and how it works to match clients and advisors “like a dating app for wealth management.” Using AI to scale personalized outreach—and why the next generation of advisors is embracing this concept. AI and its impact on human connection—and why she believes technology will free advisors to actually spend more time doing what AI cannot do. The biggest myth around AI—and how tools like FINNY will help create better and more relevant connections. It’s a fascinating look at how the next wave of innovation is making growth smarter – and more human – than ever before. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources Human Intelligence in the Age of AI: Why Recruiters Still Matter Artificial intelligence can analyze firms and deals. It can’t replace the insight and advocacy that help advisors make the right move. The Best of the Best: 10 Ways Top Advisors Are Growing Their Businesses A “Top 10” list of firm-level innovations and grassroots methodologies from some of the most successful advisors, teams, and firm in the business. Listen in to spark ideas designed to drive greater growth. Top Tips for Setting Your Business Up for Success Years Before a Move Whether you’re just exploring what’s out there or actively conducting due diligence, these insights will help you position your business and team for success, whenever the time is right. Eden Ovadia Co-Founder Eden launched FINNY alongside her co-founders in May 2024 to tackle the organic growth challenge facing RIAs. FINNY’s AI technology automates lead identification, prioritizes high-potential prospects and streamlines how advisors connect with clients. Under Eden’s leadership, FINNY has seen early success—earning acceptance into the Y Combinator startup accelerator program and raising a $4.3 million seed round in December 2024. She brings a deep background in AI, software engineering and entrepreneurship to her work, combining technical expertise with a strategic lens. Before co-founding FINNY, Eden was an Associate at Boston Consulting Group, where she primarily worked in the technology, financial institutions, and private equity practices. She holds a Bachelor of Engineering from McGill University with a specialization in Machine Learning. While at McGill, Eden also worked as a Cybersecurity Advisory Associate at EY and KPMG. Also available on your favorite podcast app and other media sites