Early-career advisors often ask: How do I grow faster without burning out?

In this episode of The Blueprint | FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Mike Zarelli, CFP® and Deshawn Peterson, CFP® sit down with Julie Penwell, CFP®, Financial Advisor at Wealthspire Advisors, to unpack how she’s navigated growth, adaptability, and brand-building in the modern advisory profession.

Julie shares how leaning into community, embracing M&A transitions, and showing up authentically on social media helped her accelerate her career—all while staying true to her “why” as an advisor.

What You’ll Hear

• How Future Proof and FPA NexGen create space for real advisor connection
• Julie’s “LinkedIn playbook” for authentic networking 
• How Instagram became her financial education hub
• The lessons she learned from M&A
• Why your niche should evolve as you do

Takeaways

1. Community compounds: conferences + local involvement = new mentors.
2. Educational, authentic content builds credibility faster than polish.
3. M&A can expand career opportunities if you stay flexible and curious.
4. Define your niche through purpose

Chapters

00:00 Intro & host welcome (Mike Zarelli & Deshawn Peterson, CFP®)

02:10 Future Proof’s energy and community focus

07:30 Julie’s journey: from intern to Wealthspire advisor

12:40 LinkedIn networking tips that actually build relationships

18:55 Financial education on Instagram: creating value without burnout

25:40 Social media ROI and realistic expectations

31:10 Thriving through M&A and evolving firm cultures

39:20 Advisor niches: from athletes to women in transition

45:15 Finding your niche without the early-career pressure

52:00 Building your personal brand within a larger RIA

58:30 Industry awards, mentorship, and inspiration

1:04:10 Top conferences for Nex Gen advisors

1:10:00 Life outside advising: nature, sports, and staying grounded

1:14:20 Hosts’ reflections & close

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