Advisor Talk with Frank LaRosa

Key Highlights:-How long it really takes to prepare and execute a successful move.-What you can - and can't - say to clients during a transition.-The emotional cost of waiting too long to leave.-Why your assistant should be part of the due diligence process.-Using the transition conversation to grow your book of business.-Legal tips for navigating non-protocol firms.-The value of having a transition project manager on your team.Whether you're planning a move next month or just starting to consider your options, this episode provides actionable insights and firsthand advice from industry veterans who have seen it all.Ready to talk? Reach out to Stacey at Stacey@EliteConsultingPartners.com.Learn more about our companies and resources:-Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com-Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.com-Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com-JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.com  Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/

Show Highlights Include:-Why manual data entry remains one of the biggest (and most expensive) time drains in advisory firms.-How CRM integrations with custodians can reduce errors and eliminate redundant work.-Why note-taking and meeting documentation are critical for client experience, continuity, and scale.-How long onboarding timelines quietly delay revenue - and how some firms shrink onboarding from 60 days to 15.-Why operational efficiency directly affects practice valuation and buyer confidence.-The role automation plays in reducing key-person risk and increasing scalability.This episode is a must-listen for advisors who feel busy but not scalable — and for firm owners who want their systems, data, and processes to work for them instead of against them.Learn more about our companies and resources:-Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com-Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.com-Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com-JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.com  Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/

Key highlights from the episode:0:00 – Introduction  4:00 – The emotional toll of moving your practice and why vague deal ranges make it worse  6:45 – Real examples of how inflated promises derail transitions and waste time  9:55 – What advisors should demand up front to ensure accurate pro formas and offers  16:30 – Why working with the right consultant can maximize your deal value and prevent costly mistakes  36:35 – Closing thoughts & contact info  If you’re considering a transition, don’t let hype or half-truths guide your decision. Learn how to spot red flags, negotiate effectively, and choose a firm that truly supports your business.--Learn more about our companies and resources:-Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com-Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.com-Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com-JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.com  Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/

Key topics include:-The core differences between direct affiliation and OSJ / enterprise models.-Why payout percentages don’t tell the full financial story.-How scale, support, and service models impact long-term net income.-When outsourcing operations can accelerate growth - and when it doesn’t.-How larger teams and solo practitioners should think differently about affiliation.-Why affiliation decisions are business decisions, not just platform decisions.Whether you’re considering independence for the first time, reassessing your current setup, or planning your next stage of growth, this episode offers a clear, practical framework to help you evaluate your options and avoid costly mistakes.Learn more about our companies and resources:-Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com-Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.com-Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com-JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.com  Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/

Key topics covered include:-How to match CRM platforms to firm size, growth trajectory, and long-term vision.-Why integration and automation are critical to improving operational efficiency.-The differences in analytics, reporting, and dashboards across Redtail, Wealthbox, and Salesforce.-How clean, connected data enhances client experience and firm value.-Why advisors should “run their business as if they’re selling it tomorrow”.This episode offers practical insight for advisors who are evaluating a CRM for the first time, considering a platform change, or simply want to understand how better data strategy can unlock more time, clarity, and growth.Download our whitepaper here: https://jedidatabasesolutions.com/resources/  Learn more about our companies and resources:-Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com-Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.com-Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com-JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.com  Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/Key topics covered include:

Show Highlights Include: 00:00 – Introduction & Why These Topics MatterFrank and Stacey explain why this episode focuses on the six themes that got the most traction from advisors in 2025.03:28 – Data as an Asset and Its Impact on ValuationWhy CRM, data quality, and accessibility now play a major role in how buyers evaluate advisory firms.08:10 – Industry Consolidation and the LPL - Commonwealth Ripple EffectHow major M&A deals are reshaping recruiting packages, advisor leverage, and firm competition.13:56 – Staying in the Driver’s Seat During AcquisitionsWhy advisors should evaluate whether they would still choose their firm if given a clean slate.17:04 – W-2 Models, Independence, and the “Swimming Upstream” TrendThe rise of independent W-2 structures and why some advisors are moving back toward them.21:51 – Deal Evolution, Multiples, and Private Equity Reality ChecksWhat advisors need to understand about headline multiples, deal structures, and long-term control.31:16 – From Practitioner to EntrepreneurThe mindset shift required to build scalable, enterprise-level advisory businesses.36:37 – Marketing, Video, and the Cost of InactionWhy visibility, authenticity, and decisive action are no longer optional for growth-focused advisors.This episode is a practical, candid look at where the industry is today - and what advisors should be thinking about as they plan their next move.Learn more about our companies and resources:-Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions:https://eliteconsultingpartners.com-Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors:https://elitemarketingconcepts.com-Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions:https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com-JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors:https://jedidatabasesolutions.comListen to more Advisor Talk episodes:https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/

Show highlights include:-Why client experience and technology will be the primary differentiators for advisors in 2026.-What a true CRM “health check” looks like and why clean data is the foundation of everything.-How workflow automation and AI note-takers are reducing friction and reclaiming advisor time.-The tradeoffs between all-in-one platforms and best-of-breed technology stacks.-Why personalization at scale is becoming essential for modern advisory firms.-How firms should think about cybersecurity, compliance, and regulatory readiness.-The metrics and insights advisors should be tracking to better understand growth, profitability, and client value.Brian and Sue make one thing clear: firms that treat technology as a strategic asset - not just a collection of tools - will be best positioned to grow, compete, and serve clients more effectively in 2026 and beyond.Download our whitepaper here:https://jedidatabasesolutions.com/resources/Articles discussed today include:https://www.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/financial-services/financial-services-industry-outlooks/investment-management-industry-outlook.htmlhttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/customer-satisfaction-individual-annuities-strained-120000029.htmlhttps://www.investmentnews.com/fintech/summit-financial-massmutual-boost-advisor-appeal-with-growth-focused-tech/261873Learn more about our companies and resources:-Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions:https://eliteconsultingpartners.com-Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors:https://elitemarketingconcepts.com-Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions:https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com-JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors:https://jedidatabasesolutions.comListen to more Advisor Talk episodes:https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/

Together, they explore practical decision points advisors should consider:• The real implications of the $100M AUM threshold and the trade-offs between state and SEC registration• When it may make sense to stay with an independent broker-dealer - especially if more than 20% of your revenue is still commission-based• Why some RIAs are now “breaking away again” and rolling into larger platforms or supported-independence models• The emotional and operational realities of dropping a Series 7, and how that can change your flexibility with media, branding, and marketingChuck also opens up about Sovereign’s “three doors” approach - including “Sovereign as a Service” - and how advisors can use incubation-style models to learn the RIA world before fully standing up their own firm. Frank underscores a central theme: there’s no universally “right” answer, only informed vs. uninformed decisions.Resources:Chuck’s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/charlesfailla  Chuck’s Websites: www.sovereignadvisorsolutions.com | www.goria.com  Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.comElite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.comElite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.comJEDI Database Solutions | Data Intelligence for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.comListen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/Follow us on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/eliteconsultingpartners

Show highlights include:-AI note-takers and why 2025 is shaping up to be “the year of the note taker”.-How advisors are using automation to reclaim time and improve meeting quality.-Why organic growth is becoming a top priority for billion-dollar RIAs.-The true indicators that it’s time to outgrow an entry-level CRM.-How disconnected systems create hidden cost drains inside every firm.-Why Salesforce is becoming the long-term “holy grail” for growth-minded advisors.-The KPIs most advisors aren’t tracking - but should.Brian and Sue make one thing clear: the firms winning today are the ones treating CRM as the engine of the entire business - the system where data, insights, efficiency, and client experience all come together.Download our whitepaper here: https://jedidatabasesolutions.com/resources/ Articles discussed today include:  https://www.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/financial-services/financial-services-industry-outlooks/investment-management-industry-outlook.htmlhttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/customer-satisfaction-individual-annuities-strained-120000029.html?https://www.investmentnews.com/fintech/summit-financial-massmutual-boost-advisor-appeal-with-growth-focused-tech/261873?Learn more about our companies and resources:-Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com-Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.com-Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com-JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.com  Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/

Frank and Jon unpack:• Why today's competitive landscape means growth-motivated buyers must approach deals differently.• The three core reasons advisors pursue acquisitions - and which ones actually lead to long-term success.• How leverage, bank financing, and EBITDA-based lending really work in practice.• Why “fixer-upper” books may offer the strongest ROI.• How elite buyers win deals by understanding the emotional side of selling a practice.• The art of creating a safe landing place for sellers, their teams, and their clients.• Why phased buyouts and seller glide paths often create better retention and better economics for everyone.Jon also shares numbers, structures, and stories that demystify the math behind buying a practice - and the mindset required to scale from practitioner to true enterprise builder.If you're a buyer, seller, or advisor considering M&A in any form, this episode is a blueprint you can’t afford to miss.Resources:Jon Kuttin’s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jonathankuttin  Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.comElite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.comElite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.comJEDI Database Solutions | Data Intelligence for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.comListen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/Follow us on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/eliteconsultingpartners

Key Highlights from the Episode:0:00 – Introduction0:44 – Future-proofing your CRM and architecting for scalability2:23 – Why most CRMs fail when firms grow5:08 – AI in CRMs: more than just dashboards10:34 – Inside “Elite Genie” and how it supports advisors11:48 – Why your CRM is really a data warehouse14:05 – Integration-first architecture for efficiency and scale25:19 – Data hygiene: the foundation of advisor valuations33:15 – Overcoming skepticism around AI adoption38:08 – A roadmap to future-proofing your tech stackResources:Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.comElite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.comElite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.comJEDI Database Solutions | Data Intelligence for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.comListen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/Follow us on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/eliteconsultingpartners

From there, the conversation turns to what advisors actually experience on the ground: Cetera’s unique ownership with Genstar and the benefits of a “fresh clock”• The breadth of affiliation models and why Cetera calls itself a “forever home”.• How multi-custody (Pershing, Fidelity/NFS, Schwab, self-clearing) helps recruiting and M&A.• Insights on Avantax, Concourse, and ongoing industry consolidation.• Why advisor equity ownership strengthens alignment.• Cetera’s focus on organic growth through regional teams and the Growth Line program.• How the firm thinks about transition deals, scale, and long-term profitability.• What advisors may not realize about Cetera’s structure, communities, and support model.Frank and Mike also contrast Cetera’s approach to scale with other major players, discuss the realities of transition deals in a changing rate environment, and talk about why insurance, tax, and planning-based advice remain central to a “super hybrid” advisor value proposition.If you’re an advisor considering independence - or re-evaluating your current platform - this conversation offers a detailed, unscripted look at how Cetera operates, what makes it different, and how it’s preparing for what Mike calls a very “dynamic” next ten years in wealth management.Resources:Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.comElite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.comElite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.comJEDI Database Solutions | Data Intelligence for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.comListen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/Follow us on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/eliteconsultingpartners

This conversation covers:-Why M&A activity has accelerated in 2025 - and why 2026 may be even bigger.-The growing appeal of dual monetization for advisors who want flexibility.-Why partial sales can limit control and create long-term complications.-How technology, data quality, and operational readiness drive your valuation.-The emotional side of selling - and why so many deals stall late in the process.-Why larger platforms often offer deeper buyer pools and stronger financing options.-What advisors should start updating now to strengthen a future exit.Whether you’re planning to sell soon, exploring a transition, or simply trying to position your practice for the next phase, this episode delivers clear guidance, real-world examples, and forward-looking insights to help you make informed decisions.Tune in and prepare your practice for what’s ahead in 2026 and beyond.Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.comElite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.comElite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorssuccessions.comJEDI Database Solutions | Data Intelligence for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.comListen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/Follow us on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/eliteconsultingpartners

This conversation covers:-What branding really means for financial advisors-How marketing supports your brand—and why they’re not interchangeable-Where advisors should focus their time to create stronger visibility-Practical ways to communicate your value more effectively-How to think about audience, channels, and message delivery-The philosophy behind the Bill Good Marketing systemWhether you’re refining your personal brand or looking for better ways to reach the right audience, this episode delivers clear, practical insights to help you communicate with more clarity and purpose.Tune in and start thinking differently about how you show up in the marketplace.Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.comElite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.comElite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.comJEDI Database Solutions | Data Intelligence for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.comConnect with Matt Hicken on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-hicken/Check out Bill Good Marketing here: https://www.billgoodmarketing.comListen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/Follow us on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/eliteconsultingpartners

Show highlights include:  00:00 – Intro01:10 – Insights vs. Actionable Insights05:28 – Understanding Social CRM & Platform Integration09:31 – Building a Unified, Holistic Client View12:54 – Social Listening, Keyword Tracking & Prospecting15:08 – Hyper-Personalized Outreach That Converts18:31 – Automation, Intake Forms & Scaling Engagement20:37 – CRM as the Engine of Your BusinessBrian and Sue make one thing clear: the firms winning today are the ones treating CRM as the engine of the business - the place where data, insights, and action come together.Learn more about our companies and resources:-Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com-Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.com-Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com-JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.com  Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/

Frank and Brian also dig into:• The pivotal 2005 spin-off from American Express - and what it unlocked for advisors.• Why it’s “all about how much you make, not the payout.”• How Ameriprise’s E-Meeting, Insights, and AI-driven Copilot tools are redefining advisor efficiency.• The power of home-office visits and what advisors should look for in firm culture.• Why advisors who said “never” to Ameriprise often end up saying “yes.”If you’ve ever wondered why so many top producers are giving Ameriprise another look, this episode delivers straight answers, real examples, and lessons every advisor can use when evaluating their next move.Resources:Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.comElite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.comElite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.comJEDI Database Solutions | Data Intelligence for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.comConnect with Brian Mora on LinkedIn or via phone: (609)-335-8844https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-j-mora-cfp%C2%AE-crpc%C2%AE-awma%C2%AE-4076b610/  Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/Follow us on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/eliteconsultingpartners 

Listen now to learn:00:00 – Intro:02:35 – What Is Generative AI (Really)?06:04 – Compliance Concerns & Data Privacy:14:20 – Can You Trust AI to Run Your Practice?18:09 – Data Is the New Asset Class:22:19 – Trust, Credibility & the Human Factor:27:11 – The Future of Work in Financial Services:31:05 – Final Thoughts: Trust But Verify:Learn more about our companies and resources:-Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com-Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.com-Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com-JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.com  Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/

Chapters:00:00 – Intro01:03 – Lessons from 250 Episodes22:54 – The Mythbuster Mentality23:26 – Authenticity, Evolution, and Advisor Education31:29 – Keep It FreshLearn more about our companies and resources:-Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com-Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.com-Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com-JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.com  Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/

In this quick-hit discussion, the two dive into:-Why most leaders are too busy “working in” their business to actually work on it.-How great coaches and therapists ask the questions you don’t want - but need—to hear.-The value of data as exposure - how numbers, like game film, don’t lie.-Why discomfort isn’t something to avoid… it’s where growth actually happens.If you’ve ever felt stuck, scattered, or overwhelmed, this behind-the-scenes moment will hit home.

Across the conversation, the panel digs into:• What IBex (Institute for Business Owner Excellence) and the Masterclass actually teach - and how “learning the language” opens doors with business owners and COIs.• Why being early matters: profiling, asking better questions, and hosting local business-owner events that generate real pipeline.• Multiple paths beyond a sale: capital-markets needs, growth capital, roll-ups, second bites, and direct private deals alongside traditional planning.• Culture and collaboration: demystifying the process, quarterbacking expert teams, and the peer-to-peer sharing that’s accelerating growth across practices.Key Chapters:00:00 – Intro  03:10 – Ken Grider introduces the advisor lineup and program structure05:17 – Lisa Detanna: 5.5 B AUM and 70% business-owner clients10:14 – Training through IBex (Institute for Business Owner Excellence)12:31 – How Raymond James bridges investment banking and planning14:11 – Addressing big-bank perception vs. Raymond James capabilities14:28 – Ryan Bass: learning the language of business-owner conversations18:27 – Will Deupree: early-stage conversations that create loyalty25:13 – Cody Hilbun: building an 18-person IB-focused advisory team30:11 – Mike Tutcher: growth through Masterclass and golf-course networking38:17 – Ken Grider: going where competition isn’t39:29 – Zac Hersman: Americas Group and cross-border opportunities45:06 – Lisa Detanna: culture, client-centric service, and firm leadership50:16 – Inside IBex & Masterclass: demystifying the process01:02:14 – Hosting local business-owner events and strategy summits01:12:18 – Educating business owners creates lasting relationships01:16:08 – Final thoughts: culture, vision, and paying it forwardIf you work with business owners (or want to), this discussion offers concrete examples, candid lessons learned, and specific approaches you can adapt to your market - without promising outcomes and while keeping client interests front and center.Resources:Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.comElite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.comElite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.comJEDI Database Solutions | Data Intelligence for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.comListen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/Follow us on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/eliteconsultingpartners