The Bucket Plan® On-Demand Series

Advisors tend to choose a distribution partner based on product shelf, compensation, or convenience. But according to Kalem Mackey, that's the wrong criteria entirely. Join host Kirsten Schlumbohm, VP of Annuity Sales at C2P and Prosperity Capital Advisors, as she sits down with Kalem Mackey, Executive Vice President at C2P and Prosperity Capital Advisors. Together they discuss what separates thriving advisor-distribution relationships from ones that quietly stall your growth. Drawing on nearly 25 years of experience on both sides of the table as an advisor and as a distribution partner, Kalem shares the principles, practices, and frameworks that make these partnerships truly work.Resources:Tool referenced: Zocks Process referenced: The Bucket Plan®Programs referenced: The Bucket Plan®, The Teamwork Movement

College costs are quietly becoming one of the most significant threats to your clients' retirement security and advisors aren't having this conversation nearly early enough. In this episode, host Kirsten Schlumbohm sits down with Jeannie Burlowski, academic strategist and author of Launch! How to Get Your Kids Through College, Debt Free, and Into Jobs They Love Afterwards, to give you a practical playbook for protecting your clients from the financial landmines hidden inside college decisions. From a critical Parent PLUS loan deadline hitting in 2026 to career clarity strategies that eliminate wasted tuition dollars, Jeannie breaks down exactly how you can add college planning to your practice, without adding 200 hours of training to your plate. Resources:Book referenced: Launch! How to Get Your Kids Through College, Debt Free, and Into Jobs They Love Afterwards by Jeannie BurlowskiArticles referenced: Got Parent PLUS Loans? Act Fast Before Key Protections Disappear, Hilarious Idea Makes Kids Eager to Apply for ScholarshipsMembership referenced: Jeannie Burlowski's Tribe Membership Newsletter referenced: Jeannie Burlowski's bi-weekly email newsletter

When employers cut 401(k) matching, your high-earning clients face a critical planning moment. Help them adapt by learning how to audit their complete benefits package and redirect savings into overlooked opportunities like health savings accounts, deferred compensation, and mega backdoor Roth conversions. Join host, Dave Alison and guest, Bryan Bibbo, AIF, NSSA, BPC, CEPA, President & CFO and Partner at JL Smith Holistic Wealth Management, as they share real client strategies for maintaining retirement trajectory when traditional benefits disappear. From restricted stock unit (RSU) tax withholding optimization to strategic employee stock purchase plan (ESPP) timing, learn how to turn benefit cuts into comprehensive planning conversations that demonstrate your value and uncover hidden assets.Resources:Financial Planning Software: eMoneyTax Planning Tool: Holistiplan

Business owner clients face unique challenges when selling their companies, and advisors play a critical role in guiding them through mergers and acquisitions (M&A) transitions. Join host Dave Alison as he sits down with Stan Milovancev, CEO of Prosperity Capital Advisors and C2P, for part two of their conversation exploring how advisors can position themselves as strategic partners when clients pursue merger, acquisition, or exit opportunities. Stan brings experience from hundreds of M&A transactions during his time overseeing a $70 billion RIA platform at CBIZ Investment Advisory Services. This conversation covers the practical work of guiding business exits, from assembling the right professional team and creating personal term sheets, to managing deal fatigue and evaluating cultural fit with potential buyers. Resources: Previous episode referenced: M&A Communication: Guiding Clients Through Advisory Transitions Part 1

Whether your clients are selling their businesses or you're navigating a merger and acquisition (M&A) transition in your own firm, the communication challenges are remarkably similar. Join host Dave Alison as he sits down with Stan Milovancev, Co-CEO of Prosperity Capital Advisors and C2P, to explore both sides of the M&A conversation. Stan brings over 30 years of leadership experience, including overseeing a $70 billion RIA platform at CBIZ Investment Advisory Services where he participated in hundreds of M&A transactions. This conversation revisits his concept of the "muddy middle,” that dangerous space where firms are too big to stay tightly focused yet too small to achieve meaningful scale, and examines how this same dynamic affects clients across industries who are contemplating their own exit strategies.Resources:Episode referenced: Evaluating M&A Opportunities: Essential Questions for AdvisorsStatistics:Fidelity 2024 M&A study found 40% of clients felt significant uncertainty about advisory firm transitions

ChatGPT and other AI tools regularly get financial advice wrong, but your clients don't always know that. What do you do when they bring you analysis that contradicts your recommendations? Discover practical strategies for handling AI-influenced objections and using these tools proactively on your end. Join host Matt Seitz, Chief Marketing Officer at C2P and Prosperity Capital Advisors, as he sits down with Dave Alison, Founder and CEO of Alison Wealth Management and President and Founding partner of C2P and Prosperity Capital Advisors. Dave shares his real experiences from recent client meetings where ChatGPT-generated analysis created misconceptions. Learn how to proactively address AI-influenced objections before they arise, communicate effectively when clients present contradictory information, and leverage these same tools to strengthen your planning process and client communications. Resources:AI referenced: ChatGPTAI Software for Financial Advisors referenced: Zocks Training Referenced: The Bucket Plan® 2.0

Major life transitions often become inflection points in advisor-client relationships, moments where trust either deepens or dissolves. Join host Kirsten Schlumbohm, Vice President and Head of Annuity Sales at C2P, as she sits down with Grace Nicholson, BPC, founder of Akamai Advisors, to explore why women fire their advisors after major life transitions and what you can do differently to help prevent it. From proactive relationship-building strategies to adjusting your communication during critical moments, discover how to demonstrate empathy and expertise when they matter most.Ressources:Books referenced: The Psychology of Money: Timeless lessons on wealth, greed, and happiness by Morgan Housel, Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life―A Revolutionary Approach to Maximizing Life Experiences Over Accumulating Wealth by Bill Perkins, The Wealthy Gardener: Lessons on Prosperity Between Father and Son by John SoforicProcesses mentioned: The Bucket Plan® and The Tax Management Journey® Statistics:$125 trillion in assets is expected to transfer from Baby Boomers to younger generations over the next two decades.57.9% of millennials have changed advisors or hired one for the first time after receiving significant inheritance.

What experience have you had either directly or indirectly when it comes to caring for an aging loved one? During this live recording from A Woman's Clarity® forum, we discuss the realities of long-term care and how to help your clients prepare for it with confidence, clarity, and compassion. Host Kirsten Schlumbohm sits down with Gina Ference, Managing Director of Partnership Development, and Drew Serzan, Head of Private Client and Executive Life Insurance Planning and Founding Partner at OneTeam Financial. Listen as Gina shares her two-year journey managing her mother's transition from independent living to assisted care. Drew Serzan from OneTeam Financial brings the advisor perspective, offering his proven conversation starter and coordination strategies. Discover the real-world insights and empathy-driven approach that makes difficult long-term care conversations possible with clients.Resources:Book referenced: Nobody Wants Your Sh*t: The Art of Decluttering Before You Die by Messie CondoStatistics:70% of people after age 65 will need some type of long-term care

As the population ages, more families are facing the realities of caregiving, and financial advisors are often the first to see it unfold. Join host Kirsten Schlumbohm, Vice President and Head of Annuity Sales at C2P, as she sits down with Bill Cohen, CSA®, founder of Cohen Caregiving Support Consultants, to discuss how advisors can guide clients through one of life’s most emotional and financially complex journeys. Bill has spent the last decade helping families navigate dementia, long-term care, and aging. Learn how to recognize early signs of caregiver stress, approach difficult topics with empathy, and help clients plan for the costs and logistics of care. Resources:Organizations with helpful resources: Cohen Caregiving Support Consultants, Alzheimer’s Association, AARP Caregiving Resource Center.Book: When Women Get Sick: An Empowering Approach for Getting the Support You Need by Rebecca BloomStatistics:Memory care facilities can cost over $10,000 per month

The economic landscape is shifting, and you’re probably hearing a term you haven't encountered in decades: stagflation. This toxic combination of slow growth, rising inflation, and increasing unemployment presents unique challenges for your practice but also powerful opportunities. Join guest host Greg Hammer, President and CEO of Hammer Financial Group, as he sits down with industry veteran Stoyan Petev, Senior Vice President of Advanced Markets at C2P, to decode what stagflation means for your practice and, more importantly, how you can turn this type of economic uncertainty into meaningful client conversations. Discover tactical portfolio adjustments and communication strategies to help your clients build unshakeable confidence in uncertain times. Resources:Planning Framework referenced: The Bucket Plan®Statistics:Last significant U.S. stagflation period occurred in the 1970s

Generation X is spending $83,000 annually compared to baby boomers' $62,000—a 33% increase that reflects their sandwich generation reality: funding college tuition while simultaneously covering parents' long-term care costs. These 45–60-year-olds are your highest lifetime value prospects, but they bring specific pressures that require targeted approaches. Join host Dave Allison as he sits down with Bryan Bibbo, President, CFO, and partner at JL Smith Holistic Wealth Management, to explore the retirement realities and tax-efficient strategies that help you capture this critical demographic. From super-funding 529 plans to implementing sophisticated tax loss harvesting through SMAs, discover how to position yourself as the advisor who understands their dual financial obligations and peak earning potential.Resources:Book referenced: Die with Zero by Bill Perkins Training program referenced: Tax Management Journey®Statistics:Gen X (ages 45-60) spends approximately $83,000 annually compared to baby boomers' $62,000 annually—a 33% increase in expensesGen X experienced major market downturns during prime saving years: tech bubble (2000) and global financial crisis (2008)

Gray divorce rates among Americans over 50 have surged from 8.7% in 1990 to 36% by 2019*, creating unique financial planning challenges that require specialized expertise. Join host Kirsten Schlumbohm, Vice President, Head of Annuity Sales at C2P as she interviews Jeannette Bajalia, Senior Wealth Manager at JL Smith Holistic Wealth Management, and Founder of Women's Worth, to explore the emotional and financial complexities of late-life divorce. Learn how to navigate the delicate balance between hard financial truths and emotional sensitivity while helping clients rebuild their financial futures. From understanding the root causes of gray divorce to implementing modified planning approaches, this episode provides essential guidance for advisors working with clients navigating one of life's most challenging transitions.*https://academic.oup.com/psychsocgerontology/article/77/9/1710/6564346 Resources:Book referenced: Wi$e Up, Women!: A Guide to Total Fiscal and Physical Well-Being by Jeannette BajaliaOrganization referenced: Women’s Worth Statistics:Gray divorce rates increased from 8.7% in 1990 to 36% by 2019 among individuals over 50 75% of nursing home residents are women Women initiate the majority of gray divorces, driven by changing societal expectationsMarital stress increases during the initial two years of retirement

The One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) represents the most significant tax planning opportunity since 2017, and advisors who understand it will have a major advantage. Join host Kalem Mackey, CFP®, BPC, Executive Vice President and Partner at C2P and Dave Alison, President and founding partner at Prosperity Capital Advisors and creator of The Tax Management Journey®, as they break down the key provisions of this transformative legislation. Discover why you need to act now on permanent tax bracket extensions, estate planning exemptions up to $15 million per person, expanded business deductions, and new opportunities to grow your practice. Resources:Training program referenced: The Tax Management Journey®Guide referenced: Dave Allison's comprehensive OBBB advisor guide - COMING SOONVideos referenced: C2P client communication videos on OBBB provisions Statistics:US debt currently at $37 trillionEstate and gift tax exemption increased to $15 million per person ($30 million per couple)SALT deduction increased to $40,000 with income phase-outs starting at $500,000Qualified small business stock exclusion increased from $10 million to $15 million100% bonus depreciation restored for business equipment purchases

Discover how to reframe legacy planning, estate strategies, and wealth management for clients without children. Join host Kirsten Schlumbohm, Vice President and Head of Annuity Sales at C2P, as she interviews Bri Conn, CFP®, Childfree Wealth Specialist® at Childfree Wealth®. Learn how to build trust with this unique, and often underserved client base, avoid common planning biases, and implement the "Die With Zero" philosophy to help clients live their best financial life. From redefining legacy beyond genetic inheritance to creating flexible work arrangements that prioritize life experiences, this episode covers essential strategies for advisors looking to better serve the growing child-free market.Resources:Book referenced: Die With Zero by Bill PerkinsPodcast: Childfree Wealth PodcastVolunteer platform: Volunteer MatchChild-Free Wealth website: childfreewealth.com

Transform your practice from referral-hoping to referral-generating with battle-tested strategies from two industry legends. Discover why referred prospects are more likely to become clients and how top advisors systematically build referral engines that drive 40%+ of their annual business. Join guest host Bryan Bibbo, AIF, NSSA, BPC, CEPA, President, CFO, and partner at JL Smith Holistic Wealth Management, as he interviews Bill Cates, CSP, CPAE, renowned author, speaker, and consultant, and John DelGreco, President and Founder of DelGreco Tax and Insurance Group, and founding partner of C2P. Learn the psychology behind expectation-based referral requests, the specific language that helps removes the "creepy referral guy" stigma, and proven systems for converting satisfied clients into active referral partners. From referral kits to targeted questioning techniques, discover the frameworks elite advisors use to make referrals predictable rather than random.Resources:Academy referenced: Cates Academy for Relationship MarketingPodcast referenced: Top Advisor PodcastBill Cates' Books: Get More Referrals Now, Beyond Referrals, Radical Relevance, The Language of Referrals

Technology continues to reshape client expectations in wealth management, with consumers comparing advisory firms to companies like Amazon and Coinbase rather than just other financial institutions. Advisors are now challenged with finding a balance between operational efficiency and personal connection. Join host Dave Alison as he continues his conversation on the future of wealth management with Jamie Hopkins, CEO of Bryn Mawr Capital Management and WSFS Bank. Transform your client service experience by learning which processes to automate for maximum impact, how to eliminate client communication black holes during volatile markets, and why AI might actually drive more in-person meetings in the future.Resources:Estate planning platform: Wealth.comFinTech platform referenced: Altruist

Client expectations continue to evolve in wealth management, and exceptional service delivery has become the key differentiator for advisory practices. In this first part of our two-part conversation on the future of 120% wealth management, we explore how strategic client experience enhancements can differentiate your practice and drive sustainable growth. Join host Dave Alison as he interviews Jamie Hopkins, Esq., LLM, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, RICP, CEO of Bryn Mawr Capital Management and WSFS Bank. Together they discuss practical strategies for creating memorable client touchpoints and implementing scalable service enhancements. From $8 barbecue sauce gestures to systematic milestone recognition, learn how to build the kind of exceptional service that creates lasting client loyalty in an increasingly competitive landscape.Resources:Financial Services Coaching: FinServ FoundationEstate planning platform: Wealth.comBooks referenced:Find Your Freedom by Jamie HopkinsUnreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will GuidaraFinancial planning process: The Bucket Plan®

Conversation Circles are a powerful tool any financial advisor can leverage to uncover the values of their clients and prospects to offer a more personalized experience. When you host one of these small-group events featuring a structured conversation, you can build years’ worth of rapport in a short period of time. Having held over 100 Conversation Circles, Ashley Ilardo, Regional Director & Vice President of Dimensional Fund Advisors (DFA), and Mia Hanson, former Associate at DFA’s Global Client Group, now a Financial Planning Associate at Venture Visionary Partners, provide a crash course on hosting these events and making them authentic to your firm. Listen and follow along with the slides linked below as our special guests teach you how to add these intimate conversations into your business model for stronger client relationships and referrals. Resources:Presentation: Dimensional Fund Advisors Conversation CirclesWorksheet: Dimensional’s Ideal Client Worksheet

When markets turn volatile, clients often start calling with questions and seeking answers. How you handle these conversations often determines whether clients stay the course or make emotional decisions that can hurt their long-term outcomes. Join host Kalem Mackey, CFP®, BPC, Executive Vice President and Partner at C2P, as he sits down with Stoyan Petev, Senior Vice President of Advanced Markets at C2P, and Mark Peterson, Director of BlackRock's Market and Portfolio Insights team, for an honest conversation about what's really driving market turbulence and how to navigate it effectively. From reading market signals that others miss to capitalizing on new income opportunities, listen to learn how to help guide your clients through uncertainty while positioning their portfolios for future success.Resources:BlackRock Publication by Mark Peterson: Student of the Market Financial planning process mentioned: The Bucket Plan®Statistics:Stocks have been up two years in a rowThe market experienced a 10% decline in two days in early April, followed by a 9.5% rebound on April 9th Interest rates on the 10-year US Treasury bond exceeded 4% for the first time since 2007, marking almost 15 years Inflation peaked at 9+% in June 2022 and recently dropped to 2.3%, the lowest level since February 2021 There were 14 consecutive months when both stocks and bonds lost money - unprecedented in investing history 

The retirement tax landscape has fundamentally shifted, and what once served as powerful wealth-building tools have now become potential financial landmines. Discover why America's IRA expert Ed Slott calls traditional retirement accounts "the worst assets on Earth" and learn the strategic moves advisors need to make before it's too late. Join host Dave Alison as he sits down with Ed Slott, CPA and founder of Ed Slott and Company, to explore how the SECURE Act transformed retirement planning and why the strategies that worked for decades no longer apply. From understanding the true cost of "fake deductions" to leveraging historically low tax rates, you’ll learn how to protect your clients' retirement wealth and build exceptional value in your practice. Resources:Exclusive organization and membership for financial advisors: Ed Slott and Company Elite IRA Advisor Group IRA training: Ed Slott and Company’s 2-Day IRA WorkshopStatistics:Traditional IRAs now face a 10-year distribution window for most non-spouse beneficiaries under the SECURE ActCurrent tax rates represent historically low levels, with the 24% bracket significantly lower than historical normsThe SECURE Act eliminated the stretch IRA provision that previously allowed distributions over 30-70 years