Business of Advice

Get a front-row seat as we dive into the three transformative tracks shaping the future of financial practices. This special episode of the Business of Advice podcast unpacks the game-changing strategies shared at The Journey: Nashville. Hear how hiring a dedicated recruiter was the single most impactful decision for one firm and how a structured internal program for employee advancement boosts retention. Whether you're looking to step out of day-to-day sales, build a sustainable business or find fresh leadership inspiration, this episode provides a blueprint for intentional growth.

Why is "dream big" the wrong advice for most entrepreneurs? In this episode of the Business of Advice podcast, Cody sits down with Liz Bohannon, founder of Seiko Designs (now Noonday Collection), bestselling author and Forbes Top 20 speaker, to unpack why starting small and taking action beats waiting for a lightning-strike moment. Liz shares her journey from quitting her corporate job at 22 and moving to Uganda with less than $1,000, to building a global brand that has empowered thousands of women worldwide. You'll discover: ·         How to turn opinions into action ·         Why promises are more powerful than goals ·         How embracing small dreams with big energy can lead to extraordinary impact If you're ready to challenge conventional wisdom and rethink how you approach success, this episode is a must-listen!

What do high net worth clients really want? In this episode of the Business of Advice podcast, Cody sits down with Kevin Merrigan, chairman of Northrop & Johnson and a global leader in superyacht brokerage, to uncover the secrets to serving ultra-wealthy clients. With over 40 years of experience and more than 400 yacht deals across 15 countries, Kevin shares how he built trust with billionaires, created unforgettable client experiences and scaled a business that thrives on relationships and referrals. You'll hear his insights on: ·         Navigating high-stakes negotiations ·         Understanding the emotional drivers behind luxury purchases ·         Building a team of experts to deliver excellence If you're ready to elevate your approach to working with high net worth clients, this episode is one you won't want to miss.

What's one of the keys to multiplying your leadership ability in your business? It may be who you bring on to help you lead. In this episode of the Business of Advice With Cody Foster podcast, Cody sits down with Chad Johnson, a leadership expert with decades of experience working alongside John Maxwell. Chad reveals his insights on how a chief of staff can transform your business, amplify your vision and foster a culture of growth. You'll also hear Chad's insights on building legacy leadership, the power of mentorship and why choosing growth over comfort is the key to exponential success. If you're ready to unlock your full potential and take your business to the next level, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom you won't want to miss!

On this episode of The Business of Advice with Cody Foster, guests Don Yaeger and Brig. Gen. Bernard "Bernie" Banks explore how leaders can seize — or screw up — moments of opportunity. Prepare to gain key insights from their new book, "The New Science of Momentum," and discover how intentional actions can supercharge your leadership strategy. This conversation is a must-listen for financial advisors and leaders.

What does it really take to grow your business? In this episode of The Business of Advice with Cody Foster podcast, Cody and members of the Advisors Excel leadership team break down the lessons they learned from attending five exclusive events with top advisors from around the country. You'll hear how these top advisors streamlined their strategies, improved client experiences and achieved remarkable growth. If you're looking for practical ways to elevate your practice — like refining your team's focus or executing at a higher level — this episode is a must-listen.

What does it take to lead with extreme ownership and build teams that thrive under pressure? Retired Navy SEAL, bestselling author and renowned leadership instructor Jocko Willink joins Cody to dive deep into his battlefield-tested wisdom. Jocko shares his insights on accountability, decision-making under stress and why discipline isn't a restriction — it's the key to unlocking freedom and long-term success. With years of experience leading missions in the most high-stakes environments, Jocko breaks down how these lessons translate into everyday life. Whether you're leading a business, a family or just striving to become the best version of yourself, this episode will inspire you to rise to the challenge and become the leader you need to be. In this episode, you'll learn: ·        Insights on navigating technological and structural changes, like the rise of AI ·        Why humility is the most crucial trait for leaders ·        The impact of early-morning routines, physical fitness and structured self-discipline on achieving freedom in all aspects of your life.

Running a successful business isn't just about profits and performance metrics; it's about people. In this episode of the Business of Advice podcast, Cody and David pull back the curtain on how they've used their business, Advisors Excel, as a force for good. From developing innovative employee benefits to transforming neglected neighborhoods and supporting local charities, they share the intentional ways they've created a positive workplace culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and builds a stronger, more engaged team. It's time to rethink your role as a leader — not just as someone who drives success, but as a catalyst for change in your team AND your community.

Being great at your job and being a great leader require two very different skill sets. In this episode of the Business of Advice podcast, Cody and David reflect on their 20 years of leadership experience, sharing the lessons they've learned after stepping into leadership roles. From setting the pace to showing up in the toughest times, they unpack the 7 lessons every leader must master. Whether it's fostering accountability, building consistency or understanding the weight of your words, these strategies will challenge and inspire you to lead with impact.

Kicking off the 100th episode with a bang! 💥 Join Cody as he and Advisors Excel co-founder David Callanan reflect on their entrepreneurial journey over the past two decades, sharing invaluable insights for anyone wanting to start a business. In this iconic installment of the podcast, these long-time friends and business partners share their top strategies for seizing opportunities, achieving sustainable growth and navigating change. Follow along as they share 8 key lessons they've learned from their own successes and failures. Don't miss this milestone episode of the Business of Advice podcast — a must-listen for entrepreneurs! Stay tuned for parts 2 and 3 on leadership lessons and community engagement.

Join us as we sit down with the legendary Coach K to uncover the leadership principles that shaped his extraordinary career at Duke University and Team USA Basketball. From building trust within a team to empowering others to grow, Coach K reveals actionable wisdom for leaders in any field. Whether you're managing a business or a basketball team, this episode will inspire you to prepare, lead and win.

What separates good leaders from great ones? Bestselling author, entrepreneur and leadership expert Dan Martell joins the Business of Advice with Cody Foster podcast once again to break down the difference between transactional and transformational leadership — and why mastering the latter is key to scaling your business. Dan, author of "Buy Back Your Time" and mentor to countless entrepreneurs, shares actionable strategies for setting clear outcomes, coaching your team for success and empowering them to solve problems independently through his 1-3-1 Principle framework. If you've struggled with micromanaging or finding the balance between leading and doing, Dan gives you the tools to step into a leadership style that will help you "buy back your time."

What's the difference between being great and staying great? Eric Thomas, considered by many to be the #1 motivational speaker in the world, joins The Business of Advice with Cody Foster to break down the power of the standard, building a legacy and what it takes to maintain long-term success. Plus, powerful moments on stage from his latest talk. A must-listen for financial professionals and leaders seeking inspiration!

Donald Trump returns to office in days, but what will his presidency mean for your business and clients? Becky Ruby Swansburg, CEO of Stonewood Financial, answers that to help us prepare for an enigmatic and opportunity-rich 2025, which she is calling "The Year of the Roth."

What leadership qualities separate winners from the rest? Adam Contos has forged an impressive career across multiple industries, turning every chapter into a valuable learning experience. From serving as a SWAT team commander to leading one of the world's largest real estate brands as the former CEO of RE/MAX and now investing in franchises through Area 15 Ventures, Adam's journey is rich with powerful leadership lessons, which he shares in his book, "Start With a Win." In this episode, he shares how building strong relationships, embracing adaptability, prioritizing personal growth and leading with service are the qualities that turn leaders into winners.