FutureProof Advisor Podcast

Financial freedom isn’t just about having enough—it’s about knowing what “enough” means. That’s the shift happening across the wealth management industry, and it’s the reason I launched a nine-month national study on the future of advice. The findings make one thing clear: despite having financial plans in place, many affluent clients still feel anxious and unfulfilled—not because they lack money, but because they lack clarity on what that money is truly meant to do.In this episode of The FutureProof Advisor, I share why the most meaningful evolution for advisors has nothing to do with new products or performance metrics—and everything to do with helping clients uncover purpose. I introduce a new framework grounded in three pillars: mindset, leverage, and process. That means doing your own internal work as an advisor, building scalable systems for deeper client conversations, and reimagining the client experience around what truly matters—not just asset allocation, but alignment.The future of advice won’t be defined by technical expertise alone. AI can optimize a portfolio or automate a tax strategy, but it can’t help a client figure out what gives their life meaning. That’s our role—and our advantage. The firms that embrace this shift will lead the profession forward. Those who resist it risk becoming indistinguishable in a sea of low-cost alternatives.

Technology gets a lot of attention—but it’s not the story. The real story is how innovation, when paired with emotional intelligence and intentional design, can elevate the human advisor-client relationship rather than threaten it. In this episode of The FutureProof Advisor, I talk with Ritik Malhotra, founder and CEO of Savvy Wealth, about what it really means to modernize in a way that supports—not replaces—the core value of advice.Ritik shares how his early exposure to tech and years of building companies led him to the wealth management space, where he’s been focused on rethinking the advisor experience from the ground up. He breaks down the myths around automation and AI, emphasizing that clients still crave human connection—especially when navigating the emotional complexity of wealth. But to deliver on that, advisors need to be intentional with their time, streamline low-value work, and adopt tools that integrate naturally into how they already operate.One of the key takeaways from our conversation is that true innovation doesn’t require abandoning what works—it requires being honest about where time is spent, what drives client value, and how technology can free up more space for meaningful relationships. It’s not about replacing advisors with platforms—it’s about building firms that are more human because they’re built on better systems.

Most advisors assume that affluent clients are confident, clear, and financially fulfilled. But after months of national research, I’ve uncovered something else entirely: a quiet crisis beneath the surface—one defined not by returns, but by disconnection, emotional uncertainty, and a lack of purpose-aligned planning.In this episode of The FutureProof Advisor, I break down what this nine-month study revealed about the evolving expectations of high-net-worth clients. While 89% still believe in the importance of human advisors, they’re looking for more than portfolio reviews and performance metrics. They want help navigating the emotional weight of wealth, making better behavioral decisions, and finding clarity in what their money is for—not just what it earns.Advisors who respond to this shift will differentiate fast. That means combining technological fluency with behavioral coaching, and shifting from performance-focused planning to purpose-driven guidance. This research is more than a report—it’s a challenge to rethink how we show up, connect, and lead.

Technology is changing fast—but the firms that thrive will be the ones that keep people at the center of everything they build.I had a great conversation with Patrick Parker, Founder of Fynancial, about how human-centered design, data structure, and digital agents are reshaping the future of wealth management. Patrick brings a unique perspective—rooted in both tech entrepreneurship and a deep understanding of the advisory space—to show how advisors can blend empathy with innovation. He shared how growing up around an RIA and working in Big Four consulting helped him see the persistent gap between client expectations and what most fintech tools deliver.We covered everything from the evolution of client portals and the role of community in client engagement, to why data infrastructure is the key to getting AI right. Patrick makes a compelling case that digital agents won’t replace advisors—they’ll remove the operational clutter so advisors can double down on what matters: trust, insight, and connection. For firms ready to experiment, iterate, and rethink how technology supports relationships, this is a glimpse into what the next chapter of advising could look like.

Growth doesn’t happen by accident. It’s forged when vision meets intention—and when leaders prioritize clarity, culture, and client experience from day one.I had a great conversation with Kathryn M. Brown, CFP®, ChFC®, CAP®, Co‑Founder and Principal of Morton Brown Family Wealth, about what it takes to build a future-proof advisory firm. She shared how her small-business upbringing and a pivotal family moment shaped her mission. From investing early in marketing to empowering team “champions” and simplifying client deliverables, she illustrates how firms grow through strategy and soul—not shortcuts.What stood out was Kathryn’s belief that clarity is creativity. Whether it’s one-page financial plans or more conversational client experiences, she shows how simplifying the experience fosters deeper engagement. This discussion is a thoughtful look at what it means to grow purposefully, lead intentionally, and redefine success beyond the numbers.

AI isn’t just a support tool anymore—it’s becoming the strategist.As the next generation of autonomous AI agents begins to emerge, we’re seeing a shift from task-based assistance to full-cycle execution. These agents don’t just draft content or summarize research—they can now run processes from start to finish with minimal human involvement. From preparing client reports to organizing internal communications, these tools have the potential to fundamentally reshape the way wealth management firms operate. For smaller firms, they could even become the competitive equalizer.But this isn’t about plugging AI into outdated workflows. It’s about letting AI pursue outcomes—more efficiently, more creatively, and sometimes in ways humans wouldn’t have thought to design. I explore how firms can start experimenting with agents in low-risk areas, build internal comfort and skill, and evolve toward deeper integration. I also dive into what it looks like to shift your team’s mindset: from managing step-by-step processes to defining clear end goals and trusting AI to find the path.Regulatory frameworks are evolving just as fast. With new initiatives like AI sandboxes and emerging tax incentives for workforce training, firms have a chance to shape—not just follow—the rules. I walk through how to align your governance with existing standards, and why compliance shouldn’t be an afterthought. If we want AI to be a long-term partner, we need to set it up with the same intention and clarity we’d expect from any team member. This is about building a future where results—not routine—define success.

Creativity isn't a gift—it’s a tool. The difference between average firms and innovative ones often comes down to the questions their teams are trained to ask. Too often, we default to limiting language like “Should we…” or “Can we…”—questions that quietly reinforce boundaries and trigger judgment. But when we reframe the conversation with a simple “How might we…,” the tone shifts, the ideas expand, and suddenly the room starts thinking differently.In this episode of The FutureProof Advisor, I share stories from my own experience running innovation labs, as well as real-world examples like Procter & Gamble’s product breakthroughs, to show how subtle language changes can create massive shifts in team dynamics. “How might we…” doesn’t just sound more open—it creates psychological safety, inviting people to share bold or imperfect ideas without fear. That kind of space leads to more creative solutions, stronger collaboration, and ultimately, better outcomes for clients and internal processes alike.But curiosity alone isn’t enough—you also need structure. We talk about how to lead teams through divergent thinking in the early stages, and then transition to focused decision-making that drives implementation. When teams know when to explore and when to execute, innovation becomes not just possible—but repeatable. This episode is about giving your firm permission to think bigger, while giving your people the framework to make it real.

Breakthroughs rarely come out of nowhere. What looks like an “overnight success” is usually the result of years of iteration, timing, and assembling familiar pieces in a new way. In this episode of The FutureProof Advisor, I explore the real nature of innovation—especially in financial advising—and why the magic isn’t in inventing something completely new, but in seeing what already exists through a different lens. Whether it's the rise of the iPhone or the quiet pivot from Webvan to Instacart, the most successful ideas often emerge when the market, the technology, and consumer behavior finally align.The good news? Innovation isn’t just for visionaries or tech founders—it’s a skill we can all develop. I talk about how becoming a sharper observer of failure, a student of other industries, and a strategist with timing can make any advisor more innovative. It’s not about building from scratch; it’s about recombining existing tools and ideas in ways that meet today’s moment. And it’s often the firms that pay attention to how consumer expectations are shaped outside our industry that gain a real edge.If we can shift away from the pressure to create the next big thing and instead focus on finding timely, relevant solutions using what’s already in front of us, we’ll open the door to more consistent innovation. The firms that win in the long run aren’t necessarily the most inventive—they’re the most curious, the most observant, and the most willing to rethink how the pieces fit together.

Most firms track metrics—but very few measure what actually matters. In this episode of The FutureProof Advisor, I explore why outcome-based numbers like AUM and revenue can give the illusion of progress while quietly stalling real growth. Drawing from years of conversations with advisory firms and firsthand experience leading teams, I unpack how misaligned metrics can drain energy, shift focus away from what drives value, and unintentionally discourage the very behaviors that lead to long-term success.Rather than chasing results, high-performing firms build what I call a “metric portfolio”—a diversified set of measurements that help teams stay focused, aligned, and confident in their next move. I walk through four essential types of metrics: predictive, outcome, efficiency, and quality—and explain why the smartest organizations spend more time tracking meaningful activity (like client touchpoints or planning milestones) than staring at results they can’t immediately influence. It’s not about tracking more—it’s about tracking better, with purpose and clarity.If you want to build a culture where people feel empowered—not micromanaged—your metrics should serve as a guide, not a scoreboard. That means only tracking what leads to action, connecting every metric back to your firm’s mission, and identifying a clear North Star to anchor your efforts. Measurement isn’t the enemy of innovation—it’s the fuel for it, if you know how to use it.

AI headlines are coming fast—and for many advisors, they feel more like science fiction than tools for daily use. In this episode of The FutureProof Advisor, I break down three major AI developments making waves: AI-enabled smart glasses that overlay real-time insights, the rise of autonomous agents handling complex workflows, and Microsoft’s new Recall feature that brings near-total digital memory to our devices. While these innovations may seem futuristic or even uncomfortable, they offer real opportunities—if we’re prepared to think strategically.The key isn’t rushing to adopt every new tool. It’s about understanding how these technologies will reshape the advisor-client relationship. From improving meeting recall with augmented reality to using AI as a thought partner in strategy sessions, we have the chance to enhance both personalization and efficiency. But the true competitive edge will come not from using AI faster—it will come from using it smarter, with intention and empathy.That means getting your data house in order now, testing where AI fits naturally into your workflows, and pulling compliance and ethics teams into the conversation early. The advisors who will thrive in this new era aren’t just tech adopters—they’re translators. They’ll be the ones who use AI to simplify the complex, stay human in a digital world, and deepen the trust that drives long-term relationships.

Most firms focus on efficiency. The top performers make space for possibility. In this episode of The FutureProof Advisor, I explore what separates the top tier of companies from the rest—and how advisory firms can adopt the same mindset to grow with purpose. The difference isn’t just technical skill or market timing—it’s the shift from being a “should soldier” (focused on certainty and best practices) to a “what if warrior” (curious, creative, and open to new outcomes). That shift rewires how we think, collaborate, and connect—with our teams and our clients.I break down a simple framework—Why? What if? How?—that helps advisors and teams challenge assumptions, unlock new ideas, and co-create practical solutions. This mindset isn’t just about internal innovation; it redefines how we serve clients. When we lead with questions instead of prescriptions, we build trust and deliver more meaningful, personalized advice.For firms ready to evolve, this episode is a playbook for putting possibility into motion. It starts with carving out intentional time to think differently, asking better questions in client and team meetings, and creating a culture where fresh ideas have room to breathe. Because the firms that thrive aren’t stuck in what worked yesterday—they’re building what’s next.

Disruption doesn’t always start with big ideas—it often starts by noticing what’s broken. In this episode of The FutureProof Advisor, I sit down with Aaron Klein, founder of Nitrogen (former Riskalyze) and his new venture Contio, to unpack how fintech evolves when entrepreneurs stay curious, resilient, and relentlessly focused on solving real problems. Aaron shares his journey from family business to building one of the industry’s most transformative tools, showing how identifying overlooked friction points—like risk alignment—can open the door to scalable innovation.We explore the rise of AI and what it really means for advisory firms. Aaron challenges the fear narrative around automation and reframes AI as a tool that enhances—not replaces—human connection. From streamlining meetings to freeing up time for strategic conversations, he explains how today’s tools can shift advisors away from routine tasks and toward high-impact work that truly moves the needle for clients. His new venture, Kantio, is rooted in this very philosophy: using AI to make meetings smarter, more intentional, and more actionable.At its core, this conversation is a blueprint for future-ready firms. We talk about the mindset required to continuously reinvest in your tech and operations, how to approach AI as a productivity partner, and why the structure of meetings says more about your culture than most people realize. Aaron’s path reminds us that the most transformative leaders aren’t just technologists—they’re listeners, problem-solvers, and builders who aren’t afraid to evolve when the industry demands it.

Comfort feels safe—but in a fast-changing world, it can quietly become your firm’s biggest threat. In this episode of The FutureProof Advisor, I explore why individuals and organizations naturally resist change, and how our biology—particularly our brain’s preference for predictability and aversion to loss—can unconsciously keep us clinging to outdated systems and habits. The same instincts that once protected us now risk holding us back.To stay competitive, we need to separate innovation from the everyday. I dig into how leaders can create intentional structures—like a “transformation division”—where new ideas can be tested in isolation, without threatening the core business. This allows teams to experiment with confidence, challenge assumptions, and develop solutions that won’t emerge under the pressure of day-to-day operations. It’s about building a firm that can execute reliably and explore boldly.Ultimately, the firms that thrive won’t just be the ones that respond well to client requests—they’ll be the ones anticipating needs clients haven’t yet expressed. Real innovation comes not from reacting to change, but from making space for it. By naming the biases that keep us stuck and creating environments where curiosity is rewarded, we give ourselves permission to evolve—with purpose, not panic.

Building a firm doesn’t always follow a straight line—and sometimes that’s the advantage. In this episode of The FutureProof Advisor, I sit down with Garrett Cottle, co-founder of Momentum Wealth Management, to talk about how adaptability, personal authenticity, and strategic thinking can shape a successful practice. From a start in music to a pivot into banking and eventually into financial advising, Garrett’s journey reflects what many advisors experience: figuring it out as you go, but doing so with intention. We explore how smaller firms can punch above their weight by staying nimble, leaning into their strengths, and making smart, client-focused decisions.Garrett shares how his team prioritizes relationship-building at every step—delivering personalized, memorable experiences that go far beyond performance reports or annual reviews. Whether it’s a welcome gift or proactive milestone check-ins, these human touches create the kind of loyalty and word-of-mouth growth that marketing dollars can’t buy. We also dig into how firms like his are using tech not just to “keep up,” but to lead—leveraging AI and customized CRMs to stay responsive, efficient, and scalable without adding complexity or headcount.What stood out most in our conversation is Garrett’s mindset: stay curious, be intentional, and never stop evolving. He’s not chasing scale for scale’s sake—he’s building a firm that reflects his values and serves clients in meaningful ways. As the industry changes, it’s that kind of clarity and adaptability that will set advisors apart. It’s not always about size or credentials—it’s about purpose, discipline, and the willingness to think a little differently.

Regulations aren’t the problem—they’re the easy excuse. The real obstacle to innovation in wealth management often lies in our own mindset: a fear of failure, a bias toward what’s worked before, and a comfort with the familiar. In this episode of The FutureProof Advisor, I dive into the tension between compliance and innovation—and why these two forces don’t have to be at odds. Drawing lessons from industries like healthcare and banking, I explore how firms operating under even stricter regulations have still managed to deliver exceptional, forward-thinking client experiences.True innovation in our space doesn’t mean ignoring risk or compromising fiduciary responsibility. It means challenging legacy processes and rethinking the entire client journey—from communication and onboarding to relationship management and reporting. Inspired by the principles that drive companies like Google, I share how even small firms can create space for structured experimentation, learn quickly, and use first-principles thinking to redesign client experiences without blowing up their operations or budget.The future belongs to firms that build a culture where new ideas are explored—not buried under the weight of “we’ve always done it this way.” That means assigning clear ownership to innovation efforts, carving out time and budget for learning (not just execution), and encouraging teams to rethink how value is delivered at every touchpoint. Change doesn’t have to be radical—it just has to be intentional. And when done well, it creates real differentiation in a crowded and commoditized market.

Growth is the goal—but few talk about how uncomfortable it can actually be. In this episode of The FutureProof Advisor, I sit down with Rich Gill of Wealth Partners Capital Group to unpack what really happens as RIAs scale beyond the founder. We explore the evolution of the industry through Rich’s unique lens—one shaped by experience across roles and market cycles—and dive into the mindset shifts required to move from a relationship-driven practice to a fully built-out firm.As Rich and I discuss, the path to sustainable growth isn’t paved with just good intentions—it takes early investment in structure, leadership beyond the founder, and a clear focus on talent development. Too many firms hit a wall because they wait too long to professionalize operations or build out scalable support systems. And while technology plays a role, it’s the firms that lean into emotional intelligence, purpose-driven client conversations, and high-trust relationships that are really separating themselves from the pack.Those leading the way are making proactive decisions—hiring ahead of the curve, putting systems in place before they feel urgent, and using tech to amplify the human touch, not replace it. They’re not growing for growth’s sake; they’re designing firms that reflect their values and meet the evolving expectations of clients who want more than performance—they want partnership.

We’re taught from a young age to aim for the right answer, follow the rules, and avoid mistakes. That mindset might’ve earned us gold stars in school—but in the real world of leadership, it often becomes a roadblock.In this episode of The FutureProof Advisor Podcast, I unpack how the systems we grew up in—especially our education system—trained us for certainty, structure, and passivity, when the modern world of financial advice demands something completely different. Our success today depends less on being right the first time and more on staying adaptable, thinking in nuance, and getting comfortable with the uncomfortable. For many advisors in leadership roles, it’s not a lack of knowledge or skill that holds us back—it’s the deeply rooted wiring that tells us to play it safe, to wait for clarity, or to avoid anything that might be perceived as failure.As firm leaders, our ability to scale and stay competitive will hinge on how well we can model and instill new ways of thinking—ways that reward curiosity over compliance, and experimentation over perfection. That means building cultures where people feel safe to challenge old norms, propose half-baked ideas, and learn in motion. It means shifting from binary mindsets to spectrum-based ones, where growth isn’t measured in tidy milestones but in resilience, adaptability, and progress over time. By staying aware of how our habits were formed—and intentionally choosing which ones to evolve—we create the space for true leadership to emerge. Growth isn’t about adding more complexity; it’s about making room for the kind of thinking that helps us all move forward.

The advisory landscape is shifting fast—and staying relevant means rethinking how we create and deliver value. In this conversation, I sit down with Christian Hyldahl, founder of Varium Investment Partners, to explore the evolution of investment management and what it takes to stand out as an advisor today. Christian’s perspective is grounded in decades of industry experience, but he’s not stuck in the past. He sees a clear divide forming: those who innovate and differentiate through process and specialization—and those who get pulled into a race to the bottom.We unpack how technology, especially AI and data-driven insights, is reshaping portfolio management. But Christian makes a strong case that human judgment still matters—particularly when it comes to forward-looking investment decisions and assessing the intangibles. He shares how Varium blends the best of both worlds, using AI where it enhances efficiency while keeping humans at the core of research and decision-making. He also outlines a new kind of partnership model, where advisors can share in the firm’s growth, not just use its services—a refreshing alternative to the traditional OCIO setup.For senior leaders and forward-thinking advisors, this episode of The FutureProof Advisor Podcast dives into the strategies and mindset shifts needed to build a truly differentiated, resilient business. From defining your firm’s value beyond investment performance to exploring models that tie growth and ownership together, the conversation is a call to think more boldly about the future. If you’re navigating change, investing in innovation, or simply re-evaluating how to lead with purpose, this episode offers a fresh lens—and a few ideas worth taking back to your team.

We tend to believe that more knowledge and more information will make our decisions easier and better. But what if that abundance of insight is actually holding us back?As leaders in this industry, we’re often inundated with options, research, and opinions—yet that flood of input can lead to indecision, anxiety, and hesitation. In this episode of The FutureProof Advisor, I unpack how too much thinking and not enough doing can hinder our progress, both individually and within our firms. I explore the paradox where knowledge—while valuable—can become a roadblock when it outweighs experimentation.Drawing from behavioral research and personal experiences, I examine how limiting choices can unlock action, how micro-experiments drive clarity, and how maintaining a beginner’s mindset—even as seasoned professionals—is essential to navigating fast-changing environments. I explore the difference between naïve optimism and strategic experimentation, and why getting things “right” matters less than having the courage to test, learn, and adjust.This episode is a call to shift our relationship with action. Instead of seeking perfect answers, we can embrace a culture where thoughtful trial, fast iteration, and small failures lead to smarter decisions and long-term growth.

The most successful firms aren’t the ones that fear change—they’re the ones that actively lead it. That’s the mindset Todd Pisarczyk brings as we talk about how senior advisors and firm leaders can future-proof their practices in an age of rapid technological transformation. From experimenting with AI tools like ChatGPT to creating standout client experiences inspired by outside industries, Todd shares how curiosity and intentionality can drive real results.Rather than waiting for tech solutions to be handed down by vendors, Todd leads by example—testing tools, learning alongside his team, and embedding innovation into his firm’s culture. He also challenges the conventional definition of client service, making a compelling case for crafting high-touch, memorable experiences that reflect care and excellence. And he connects it all to a deeper purpose: building a legacy firm that’s not just operationally sound, but deeply human and built to last.For leaders looking to stay ahead, it’s a conversation about mindset, action, and elevating every part of the advisory business.