From Busy to Rich

What does it take to build a life and a practice you don’t want to retire from?  In this episode of the From Busy To Rich podcast, Wes Young and co-host Justin Lakin pull back the curtain on their own journey, sharing the pivotal moments, challenges, and catalysts that shaped their holistic, fee-based financial planning firm. Wes reflects on how he transitioned from a 24-year-old in electrical contracting to founding a remote-first financial practice that helps clients align time, talent, energy, and resources with their core values. From humble beginnings to a thriving 20-person team, the episode explores the importance of defining a clear vision, embracing transformation, and staying grateful along the way. Here’s what you can expect from the episode: How to align your business growth with personal values and priorities Why a strong vision (even if imperfect) fuels long-term success How to build a team culture that supports freedom and impact Why “normalizing the new” is essential for continuous innovation And more! Other Listening Platforms: Listen on Apple Podcasts: HERE Stream on Spotify: HERE Watch on YouTube: HERE Resources: Submit your podcast question here! Connect with us: Instagram X Facebook LinkedIn Youtube  Wes Young Live Website  LinkedIn: Justin Lakin LinkedIn: Wes Young  

Click here to watch the video version. In this episode of "From Busy to Rich," hosts Wes and Justin interview business strategist Alicia Byers. Alicia shares practical strategies for financial advisors to authentically grow their businesses by enhancing client experiences, leveraging personal strengths, and building supportive teams.  In today’s episode we will cover: Common challenges faced by financial advisors, including dissatisfaction with current business models. The significance of creating memorable client experiences. The process of mapping out the client journey to identify gaps in service. Techniques for implementing sustainable changes in business practices. The value of leveraging natural strengths and building supportive teams. Resources and support available for financial advisors to enhance their practices. Have a question for us to answer on the podcast? Let us know here! Check out additional resources at www.wesyounglive.com. Transform Learning Series - click here for information on how to sign up.  Want to hear more from Alicia? Check out below for ways to follow or get in touch! Email Alicia at alicia@byersstrategygroup.com Schedule directly with her here: https://calendly.com/byersstrategygroup/new-meeting Catch her podcast, The Uncommon Advisor here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-uncommon-advisor/id1833056217

In this episode of "From Busy to Rich," hosts Andy, Wes, and Justin discuss the importance of being intentional and focusing on moving towards desired goals rather than away from undesired situations. They explore themes of leadership, personal development, and the financial planning industry. The conversation emphasizes the need to challenge default settings, clarify what a rich life means, and align actions with true values. By defining success and setting clear intentions, they argue that individuals can achieve more meaningful progress and avoid the pitfalls of aimless business. Click here to watch the video version. In today’s episode we will cover: Being intentional and focusing on moving towards what one wants rather than away from what one doesn't want Leadership and personal development Financial planning industry Challenging default settings The importance of defining what "winning" looks like Articulating a rich life and aligning goals with clients The power of frustration as a motivator for growth Channeling business towards what truly matters Setting clear intentions for progress Avoiding getting caught up in activities that don't align with goals We hope you enjoy this episode, and we would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you’re an advisor and want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com. Perhaps you’ve been following us for a while, and you’re ready to transform your practice. If so then we would love to have you at our upcoming Transform Learning Series™ - click here for information on how to sign up.

In this episode of "From Busy to Rich," host Wes and Justin explore the concept of default settings and their impact on decision-making in personal and professional contexts. They illustrate how default settings can limit potential and emphasize the importance of challenging these norms. They stress the need for intentionality in challenging defaults and mention upcoming resources like the book "Unreasonable Hospitality" and the Transform Learning Series™ class for financial advisors. Click here to watch the video version. In today’s episode we will cover: Default settings and their impact on decision-making Challenging default settings in personal and professional life Creating a rhythm for challenging the norm and implementing new ideas Being intentional Embracing change for growth and success We hope you enjoy this episode, and we would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you’re an advisor and want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com. Perhaps you’ve been following us for a while, and you’re ready to transform your practice. If so then we would love to have you at our upcoming Transform Learning Series™ class - click here for information on how to sign up.

In this episode of "From Busy to Rich," host Andy and guest Wes delve into the crucial decision of when financial advisors should hire their first employee. They discuss the benefits of hiring for profitability and improved quality of life for both advisors and clients. Wes shares his own struggles as a solo practitioner and the importance of recognizing when to delegate tasks. The duo addresses the fears surrounding hiring, advising listeners to view it as an investment rather than a cost. They stress the need for a clear job description, the courage to embrace change, and the importance of aligning hires with the business vision. CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO VERSION. In today’s episode we will cover: Pivotal moment for financial advisors to make their first hire Recognizing signs indicating the need to stop handling all tasks alone Hiring the right person to support the business Avoiding non-advisory tasks that do not add value to the organization Shifting mindset from viewing hiring as a cost to seeing it as an investment Emotional and practical aspects of hiring the first employee Creating clear job description and expectations for the new hire  We hope you enjoy this episode, and would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you’re an advisor and want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com. Perhaps you’ve been following us for a while, and you’re ready to transform your practice. If so then we would love to have you at our upcoming Transform University class - click here for information on how to sign up. Click here to download the TTT tool.

In this episode of "From Busy to Rich," host Andy and Wes wrap the series as they delve into the art of effective meetings for financial advisors. They discuss the critical role of first impressions and the necessity of earning clients' trust early on. Wes shares his strategies for setting up initial meetings that are comfortable, conversational, and client-focused. They underscore the importance of clear and simple communication, aiming to establish trust and demonstrate value. Wes also introduces his upcoming learning series, designed to further develop financial advisors' meeting skills. Click here to watch the video version. In today’s episode we will cover: Setting up initial meetings with a focus on creating a comfortable and conversational atmosphere Being concise and making the meeting about the client's needs and interests Establishing trust and demonstrating value to the client Significance of simplicity and clarity in communication Continuous improvement of skills in communication for advisors We hope you enjoy this episode, and would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you’re an advisor and want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com. Perhaps you’ve been following us for a while, and you’re ready to transform your practice. If so then we would love to have you at our upcoming Transform University class - click here for information on how to sign up.  

In this episode of "From Busy to Rich," host Andy and Wes discuss strategies for new advisors to effectively set up meetings with potential clients. They emphasize the importance of being genuine, clear, and emotionally intelligent when communicating with clients. Wes shares his early career experience, highlighting the need to build trust and negotiate the benefit of the doubt. He suggests a transparent approach, including the possibility of partnering with experienced advisors to bolster credibility. Andy advocates for setting realistic time expectations for meetings.  Click here to watch the video version. In today’s episode we will cover: Importance of negotiating the benefit of the doubt when setting up meetings with potential clients Being genuine and clear in approach to gain trust and interest of clients Importance of emotional intelligence in client interactions Setting realistic time expectations for meetings Ineffective approach of inviting contacts New narrative for approaching potential clients Emphasizing the need for emotional intelligence in client interactions Strategies for building entry influence with clients We hope you enjoy this episode, and would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you’re an advisor and want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com. Perhaps you’ve been following us for a while, and you’re ready to transform your practice. If so then we would love to have you at our upcoming Transform University class - click here for information on how to sign up.

In this episode of "From Busy to Rich," host Andy and Wes discuss strategies for financial advisors to earn trust and establish rapport with potential clients. Wes shares his experience with a high-net-worth individual, emphasizing the need to negotiate the benefit of the doubt, build common ground, and focus on the client's needs. They explore the importance of mindset, genuine conversation, and continuous self-improvement. The conversation highlights how advisors can overcome doubts, demonstrate their value, and foster successful client relationships through intentional dialogue and trust-building. Click here to watch the video version. In today’s episode we will cover: Importance of negotiating the benefit of the doubt when meeting with prospects Establishing common ground and building trust with prospects Emphasizing the need to convey competence and likability Reflecting on the challenges and attitudes required to succeed in the financial advising industry Shifting the focus from wanting something from the client to wanting something for the client Dedication and intentionality required to negotiate doubts effectively We hope you enjoy this episode, and would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you’re an advisor and want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com. Perhaps you’ve been following us for a while, and you’re ready to transform your practice. If so then we would love to have you at our upcoming Transform University class - click here for information on how to sign up.

In this episode of "From Busy to Rich", Wes Young, a church volunteer, speaks to the congregation about the significance of work and navigating the gap between our current state and our aspirations. He emphasizes that work should be meaningful and contribute to a fulfilling life. Wes discusses the importance of setting both becoming and getting goals, and encourages listeners to dream and plan their future. In today’s episode we will cover: The concept of work and the significant amount of time people spend working in their lives The gap between where people are and where they want to be, and the importance of maintaining ambition and gratitude while navigating this gap Reframing the perspective on work and striving for a fulfilling and satisfying experience in professional lives Setting becoming goals in addition to getting goals The importance of perseverance, finding solutions in difficult situations, and embracing an optimistic yet grounded approach to work and life We hope you enjoy this episode, and would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you’re an advisor and want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com. Perhaps you’ve been following us for a while, and you’re ready to transform your practice. If so then we would love to have you at our upcoming Transform University class - click here for information on how to sign up.

In this episode of "From Busy to Rich", hosts Andy Traub, Wes Young, and Justin Lakin welcome guest Matt Thompson from Northern Ireland. Matt discusses his expertise in storytelling and its relevance to financial advisors' work. They emphasize the importance of understanding clients' personal stories to provide tailored solutions. The conversation explores the parallels between Matt's storytelling approach and the advisory process, highlighting the value of curiosity and genuine interest in others' experiences. Matt also shares his passion for preserving family legacies through various mediums, underscoring the transformative power of stories. Click here to watch video version. In today’s episode we will cover: Importance of understanding clients' stories and needs before offering solutions Matt Thompson's personal story and experiences in helping people express themselves and tell their stories The role of financial advisors in understanding and serving their clients The value of curiosity, genuine interest, and the ability to draw out meaningful stories from individuals Asking thought-provoking questions to elicit authentic responses from guests The power of storytelling and its impact on personal and professional lives We hope you enjoy this episode, and would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you’re an advisor and want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com. Perhaps you’ve been following us for a while, and you’re ready to transform your practice. If so then we would love to have you at our upcoming Transform University class - click here for information on how to sign up.

In this episode of "From Busy to Rich", hosts Andy Traub, Wes Young, and Justin Lakin discuss the importance of setting clear life goals and understanding one's current position, akin to players on a football field. They stress the need for honesty in self-assessment, establishing clear intentions, and creating milestones. The conversation also covers the value of external advice and making choices that steer towards one's life goals, underscoring the significance of intentionality and proactive decision-making in life's journey. Click here to watch video version. In today’s episode we will cover: Importance of having a clear destination and direction in life Emphasizing the significance of being honest about where you are and where you want to be Setting clear intentions and milestones to move in the right direction Seeking input from others and making informed choices Being intentional and proactive in shaping the trajectory of your life  We hope you enjoy this episode, and would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you’re an advisor and want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com. Perhaps you’ve been following us for a while, and you’re ready to transform your practice. If so then we would love to have you at our upcoming Transform University class - click here for information on how to sign up.

In this episode of "From Busy to Rich", hosts Andy Traub, Wes Young, and Justin Lakin discuss the portion of life spent on average working. A recent study revealed that on average a person will spend 90,000 hours working. They explore the importance of principles in work and life to maximize those hours. They discuss how leveraging principles can lead to success and satisfaction, while ignoring them can have detrimental effects. They stress the need to understand these truths to make the most of the 90,000 work hours in a lifetime. The episode also emphasizes the principle of the path, setting clear directions, and aligning actions with one's vision. Click here to watch video version. In today’s episode we will cover: Discussion about the concept of spending 90,000 hours working or engaged in work over a lifetime Examples of principles in various aspects of life, such as gravity Highlighting the importance of recognizing and leveraging principles for greater satisfaction and impact in work and life Discussing the principle of the path and its significance in determining one's destination in life Emphasizing the importance of setting a clear direction for the future and aligning actions with that vision We hope you enjoy this episode, and would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you’re an advisor and want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com. Perhaps you’ve been following us for a while, and you’re ready to transform your practice. If so then we would love to have you at our upcoming Transform University class - click here for information on how to sign up.

In this episode of the "From Busy to Rich" podcast, hosts Andy and Wes Young, along with Justin, delve into the concept of "closing time," which involves ending certain activities to foster personal and professional growth. They discuss the paradox of productivity, where stopping certain tasks can lead to increased productivity and advancement. The conversation touches on the resistance to change due to fear of loss and discomfort with the familiar. They emphasize the importance of ending behaviors that no longer serve us and the need to challenge inherited processes and norms. They also explore the significance of not negotiating with oneself and the impact of administrative support on productivity. If you’re ready to replace unproductive habits with positive ones to lead a richer life then this one is for you! Click here to watch video version. In today’s episode we will cover: The Concept of "closing time" and the importance of stopping certain activities for personal and professional growth Shifting mindset and focusing on value Delegating administrative tasks for increased productivity Questioning the effectiveness of being busy and working hard for personal and professional growth Concerns and fear of change preventing necessary adjustments  We hope you enjoy this episode, and would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you’re an advisor and want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com. You can also click here to receive a free downloadable copy of Wes’ ideal calendar. Perhaps you’ve been following us for a while, and you’re ready to transform your practice. If so then we would love to have you at our upcoming Transform University class - click here for information on how to sign up.

In this episode of the From Busy to Rich podcast, hosts Andy and Wes, along with co-host Justin, dive into the practice of "calendarizing" for effective time management. Wes advocates for scheduling critical tasks to ensure they align with long-term goals, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries and making positive declarations. The discussion covers practical applications like meal planning and exercise, the benefits of block scheduling for work tasks, and the necessity of budgeting time and energy, especially for client meetings. Andy shares his own strategy for productive work. They emphasize that calendarizing is a key to productivity and work-life balance. Click to watch video version. In today’s episode we will cover: The concept of “calendarizing” Importance of aligning daily activities with long-term goals Block scheduling Setting boundaries We hope you enjoy this episode, and would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you’re an advisor and want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com. You can also click here to receive a free downloadable copy of Wes’ ideal calendar. Perhaps you’ve been following us for a while, and you’re ready to transform your practice. If so then we would love to have you at our upcoming Transform University class - click here for information on how to sign up.

In this episode of "From Busy to Rich", hosts Andy Traub, Wes Young, and Justin Lakin explore the productivity paradox in budgeting. They discuss the importance of setting boundaries and making assertive financial decisions, reframing budgeting as a positive tool that reflects one's values and aspirations. The conversation covers the challenges of predicting financial futures and the significance of grounding budgets in historical data. They emphasize budgeting as a strategic practice that can lead to financial clarity and freedom. Click here to watch video version. In today’s episode we will cover: Discussion on the productivity paradox and its importance in financial planning Emphasis on the significance of boundaries and assertions in budgeting Reframing budgeting as a tool for expressing values and aspirations Challenges and resistance associated with budgeting Importance of understanding one's current financial position and making grounded assessments for the future Trade-offs of budgeting and the concentration and decision-making involved Importance of setting clear boundaries to achieve financial goals We hope you enjoy this episode, and would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com and use discount code PODCAST25 for 25% off, or if you’re interested in attending our next Transform University click here for information on how to sign up.

In this episode of "From Busy to Rich", hosts Wes Young closes out the series with a recording a talk he gave titled “Life Hacks.” He introduces the book of Proverbs as a source of wisdom for the series, emphasizing the importance of integrity in shaping one's future. Young encourages listeners to write out their life vision for three years ahead, covering professional, financial, physical, relational, and spiritual aspects. Click here to watch video version. In today’s episode we will cover: Introduction to the “Life Hacks” series Importance of integrity in guiding individuals towards their preferred future Discovering truths for a better life Encouragement to gain understanding and clarity to prioritize opportunities and future possibilities Individual hacks in professional, financial, physical, relational, and spiritual aspects We hope you enjoy this episode, and would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com and use discount code PODCAST25 for 25% off, or if you’re interested in attending our next Transform University click here for information on how to sign up.

In this episode of the "From Busy to Rich" podcast, host Andy, Wes, and Justin continue discussing the concept of playing an infinite game in the financial advisory industry. They emphasize the importance of transformation, adaptability, and focusing on long-term goals. They highlight the need for a flexible playbook that can cater to unexpected changes and different clients' needs. They encourage listeners to adopt an infinite game mindset. Click here to watch video version. In today’s episode we will cover: The difference between finite games and infinite games Importance of having a flexible playbook Need for transformation Importance of focusing on long-term goals rather than short term transactions  We hope you enjoy this episode, and would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com and use discount code PODCAST25 for 25% off, or if you’re interested in attending our next Transform University click here for information on how to sign up.

Are you playing the right game? In this episode of "From Busy to Rich", hosts Andy Traub, Wes Young, and Justin Lakin discuss the concept of playing an infinite game in business, as explained by Simon Sinek in the book "The Infinite Game". They explore the difference between finite and infinite games, emphasizing the importance of focusing on continuous growth and adaptation in business rather than winning or losing. They also discuss the significance of having a clear "just cause" and being open to new ideas. Click here to watch video version. In today’s episode we will cover: The concept of playing an infinite game in business The difference between finite games and infinite games Winning in business is not about beating others, but instead is about continuous growth and adaptation There are five imperatives to playing the infinite game The imperative of advancing a Just Cause We hope you enjoy this episode, and would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com and use discount code PODCAST25 for 25% off, or if you’re interested in attending our next Transform University click here for information on how to sign up. If you would like a copy of the Task Matrix Wes mentioned in the show you can download a copy here.

In this episode of "From Busy to Rich", hosts Wes Young and Justin Lakin discuss the concept of creating a life and work that one never wants to retire from. Wes shares a conversation with an advisor, who at 78, continues to innovate in his organization. They discuss the importance of finding a leader and organization one admires. They also introduce a concept from David Salyers, CCCP (Competence, Capacity, Contribution, and Promotion), and emphasize the need for organizations to define success for each role. Click to watch video version. In today’s episode we will cover: Creating a life and work that you never want to retire from CCCP (Competence, Capacity, Contribution, and Promotion), Creating more capacity and efficiency in work Regularly reassessing passions and interests, and the importance of intentionality in creating an organization We hope you enjoy this episode, and would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com and use discount code PODCAST25 for 25% off, or if you’re interested in attending our next Transform University click here for information on how to sign up. If you would like a copy of the Task Matrix Wes mentioned in the show you can download a copy here. Luke Combs: Doin' This  

In this episode of "From Busy to Rich", Andy and Wes chat with Ryan Daus about his journey in the financial advisory business. Ryan shares his experiences, from starting as an intern to building a successful business. He emphasizes the importance of a strong team, client care, and a fee-based structure. Ryan also discusses his future aspirations, the importance of transparency in leadership, and his fears about the future. The conversation also touches on the value of delegation, the need for self-reflection, and the balance between profitability and quality of life. Click here to watch video version. In today’s episode we will cover: A journey in the financial advisory business Not all cupcakes and rainbows, challenges faced by advisors in the industry Importance of taking care of clients and delivering on promises Building a business vs having a job Next level of growth for advisors with a staff We hope you enjoy this episode, and would love to hear your feedback by leaving a review. If you want to further explore these or other topics you can learn more at www.wesyounglive.com and use discount code PODCAST25 for 25% off, or if you’re interested in attending our next Transform University click here for information on how to sign up.