Nurturing Success

Episode 7: Alex Leu of LA Wealth Advisors

Host: John Thompson

Guest: Alex Leu

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson speaks with Alex Leu, the founder of LA Wealth Advisors. Alex shares his journey from working at large firms like Morgan Stanley and Charles Schwab to launching his own independent financial advisory firm. He discusses his client-centered approach, the importance of comprehensive financial planning, and how his passion for cycling and community engagement influences his work. The conversation also explores team-building, liability management, and the role of technology in the future of financial advising.

What You'll Learn:

• How Alex transitioned from major financial firms to founding LA Wealth Advisors

• The benefits of a structured financial planning process for clients

• Why building a strong, collaborative team is essential for long-term success

• The importance of educating clients and their families about finances

• How liability management plays a role in financial planning

• The impact of AI and technology on the financial services industry

• Why networking and community involvement are key to growing a practice

Timestamps:

• [00:00] Introduction to the episode and guest, Alex Leu

• [01:00] What Alex is grateful for: The success of LA Wealth Advisors in its first year

• [03:00] Passion for cycling, becoming a Schwinn-certified instructor, and community involvement

• [05:00] Why Alex left major financial firms to start his own independent practice

• [07:00] How LA Wealth Advisors structures its financial planning process

• [09:00] Working with mass-affluent clients and addressing their complex financial needs

• [10:00] Alex’s early exposure to finance and the personal experience that shaped his career

• [13:00] How financial literacy education is crucial for young people

• [15:00] Building and managing a high-performing advisory team

• [18:00] The importance of integrating tax, estate, and liability planning into financial advice

• [20:00] How Alex successfully took a month-long vacation while running a growing business

• [22:00] Liability management: Why structuring debt properly is crucial for long-term wealth

• [24:00] The evolving role of AI and technology in financial planning

• [26:00] Final thoughts: The future of financial advising and staying ahead of industry changes

Resources Mentioned:

• LA Wealth Advisors – Alex’s independent financial advisory firm

• Liability Management Strategies – How debt management fits into financial planning

• AI in Finance – The growing role of technology in wealth management

• Schwinn Indoor Cycling Certification – Alex’s passion for fitness and community involvement

Connect with Us:
Reach out to Alex with your questions or feedback. Contact Alex Here

Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to Nurturing Success for more insights from industry leaders. Stay tuned for the next episode, where we continue to explore successful financial strategies and practices. If you are interested in being our next guest, reach out to jack@smplmortgage.com to get scheduled. 

Episode 6: Jeremy Baker of Arroyo Financial

Host: John Thompson

Guest: Jeremy Baker

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson speaks with Jeremy Baker of Arroyo Financial. With over 22 years in the insurance and financial services industry, Jeremy shares his journey, the challenges of the industry, and the strategies that have led to his long-term success. They discuss the importance of consistency, diversification in financial planning, networking, and how financial professionals can better serve their clients. Jeremy also highlights the critical role of life insurance in estate planning and business protection.

What You'll Learn:

• How Jeremy built a successful career in financial services over 22 years

• Why consistency and perseverance are key in the financial industry

• The importance of diversifying financial products and services

• The role of networking and in-person connections in building a strong client base

• How life insurance plays a vital role in estate planning and business protection

• Best practices for time management and calendar blocking for financial professionals

• Why collaborating with other advisors benefits both clients and the industry

Timestamps:

• [00:00] Introduction to the episode and guest, Jeremy Baker

• [01:00] What Jeremy is grateful for: Longevity and success in the financial industry

• [03:00] The challenges of working in insurance and financial planning

• [05:00] Financial planning during uncertain times: Why history repeats itself

• [07:00] The importance of long-term, consistent investing strategies

• [09:00] How diversification in products and services has led to business growth

• [11:00] Cross-selling financial products and the value of multiple service offerings

• [13:00] Why mass affluent and high-net-worth definitions need to evolve

• [15:00] Partnering with other advisors: When and how to refer clients

• [17:00] The power of in-person networking and building strong referral relationships

• [19:00] Time management tips: Blocking schedules and optimizing client meetings

• [21:00] Life insurance and estate planning: Creating liquidity for future generations

• [23:00] Final thoughts: Collaborating with advisors and building industry success

Resources Mentioned:

• Arroyo Financial – Jeremy’s firm specializing in insurance and financial services

• Networking Groups – The benefits of in-person connections through groups like BNI, Chamber of Commerce, and Toastmasters

• Life Insurance & Estate Planning – How policies can provide liquidity and protect family wealth

Connect with Us:
Reach out to Jeremy with your questions or feedback. Contact Jeremy Here

Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to Nurturing Success for more insights from industry leaders. Stay tuned for the next episode, where we continue to explore successful financial strategies and practices. If you are interested in being our next guest, reach out to jack@smplmortgage.com to get scheduled. 

Episode 5: Tori Sierra of Cetera Advisors

Host: John Thompson

Guest: Tori Sierra, CFP®

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson speaks with Tori Sierra, a Certified Financial Planner® specializing in empowering female entrepreneurs of color. Tori shares her journey into financial planning, how she identified and honed her niche, and the importance of intentionality in both business and personal finance. They discuss the role of community, the advantages of subscription-based financial planning, and key strategies for young advisors navigating the industry. Tori also highlights the power of behavioral finance, liability management, and leveraging AI for efficiency.

What You'll Learn:

• How Tori transitioned from working with teachers to serving female entrepreneurs of color

• The impact of community on financial success and client relationships

• How subscription-based financial planning allows advisors to serve clients at all stages

• Why behavioral finance plays a crucial role in long-term financial success

• Strategies for young advisors entering the industry and finding their niche

• The role of AI and technology in financial planning and client engagement

• The importance of liability management and integrating home equity into financial plans

Timestamps:

• [00:00] Introduction to the episode and guest, Tori Sierra

• [01:00] What Tori is grateful for: A healthy pregnancy and supportive team

• [03:00] Tori’s journey into financial planning and how she found her niche

• [04:30] Building a team: Working alongside her husband and supporting young advisors

• [07:00] The importance of diversity in financial services and intentional industry growth

• [09:00] Advice for young advisors: Learning the business and finding your passion

• [11:00] The value of business coaching and how it shaped Tori’s career

• [13:00] How financial advisors can help clients focus on controllable factors

• [15:00] The role of emotions in investing and why planning trumps market timing

• [17:00] Subscription-based financial planning: How it makes financial advice accessible

• [19:00] Leveraging AI for efficiency in financial planning and marketing

• [21:00] Liability management: When debt is good and when to prioritize paying it off

• [23:00] Home equity and its role in financial planning and retirement strategies

• [25:00] Final thoughts: The importance of intentional time management for advisors

Resources Mentioned:

• AdvicePay - Subscription-based financial planning platform

• AI Tools - Used for content creation, client engagement, and workflow optimization

• Canva - AI-assisted marketing and content creation

• ChatGPT - Used for brainstorming video outlines, social media captions, and presentations

Connect with Us:
Reach out to Tori with your questions or feedback. Contact Tori Here

Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to Nurturing Success for more insights from industry leaders. Stay tuned for the next episode, where we continue to explore successful financial strategies and practices. If you are interested in being our next guest, reach out to jack@smplmortgage.com to get scheduled. 

Episode 4: Alex Sierra of Cetera Advisors

Host: John Thompson

Guest: Alex Sierra, CFP®

Episode Summary: In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson speaks with Alex Sierra, a Certified Financial Planner specializing in building generational wealth for educators, public employees, and nonprofits. Alex shares his journey into financial planning, how he developed his niche, and the importance of planning over investing in today’s market. They discuss the impact of community, the benefits of subscription-based financial planning, and strategies for advisors looking to grow and sustain their practice.

What You'll Learn:

• Alex’s journey into financial planning and his focus on creating generational wealth
• How Alex and his team specialize in different niches, including educators, nonprofits, and female business owners of color
• The benefits of subscription-based financial planning and how it works
• Why financial planning should focus on goal-based strategies over investment returns
• How community plays a role in Alex’s practice and his efforts to give back
• Liability management strategies and when to bring in professionals to assist with debt management and home equity

Timestamps:

• [00:00] Introduction to the episode and guest, Alex Sierra
• [01:00] What Alex is grateful for: His team and upcoming family addition
• [03:00] How having a team has expanded Alex’s capacity and allowed for specialization
• [04:30] Alex’s journey into financial planning and early influences from his family and community
• [07:00] The importance of community and how it integrates into Alex’s practice
• [09:00] Planning over investing: Why goal-based financial planning is more important than ever
• [10:30] Subscription-based financial planning: How Alex structures his services for different income levels
• [13:00] Client engagement process: Tri-annual reviews, monthly newsletters, workshops, and YouTube videos
• [15:00] Tips for advisors starting with social media and YouTube
• [17:00] Liability management: The role of debt in financial planning and when to bring in a liability advisor
• [20:00] Final thoughts: Be genuine, find your niche, and build authentic client relationships

Resources Mentioned:

• HolistaPlan: Tax Planning Software
• eMoney: Financial Planning Software

Connect with Us:
Reach out to Alex with your questions or feedback. Contact Alex Here

Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to Nurturing Success for more insights from industry leaders. Stay tuned for the next episode, where we continue to explore successful financial strategies and practices. If you are interested in being our next guest, reach out to jack@smplmortgage.com to get scheduled. 

Episode 3: Linda Polwrek of Polwrek Financial

Host: John Thompson

Guest: Linda Polwrek, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP®, MBA

Episode Summary: In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson sits down with Linda Polwrek, a seasoned financial planner with multiple designations, including CFP®, CDFA®, and RICP®. Linda shares her journey into financial planning, how she built a successful practice while empowering women, and the importance of tax planning in today’s volatile market. They also discuss the benefits of liability management and how Linda has integrated these strategies into her work with clients, especially women navigating life transitions like divorce or widowhood.

What You'll Learn:

• Linda’s journey into financial planning and her experience working with her two sons in the business
• How Linda developed her niche in empowering women to achieve financial confidence
• The importance of tax planning in retirement and how to use tools like Roth conversions, QCDs, and donor-advised funds
• Recommended software for financial planners, including HolistaPlan and eMoney
• Linda’s client engagement process and how she segments her clients based on assets and engagement levels
• How Linda integrates liability management, including mortgage and reverse mortgage strategies, into her clients' financial plans

Timestamps:

• [00:00] Introduction to the episode and guest, Linda Polwrek
• [01:00] What Linda is grateful for: Family, business growth, and working with her sons
• [02:30] How Linda’s sons joined her practice and the evolution of their involvement
• [04:00] Empowering women in financial planning: Linda’s passion for helping women take control of their finances
• [06:30] Advice for advisors considering focusing on a specific niche
• [08:00] What consumers should focus on right now: Tax planning as a priority
• [09:30] Tax strategies Linda uses with clients: Roth conversions, QCDs, and more
• [10:30] Financial planning software: HolistaPlan, eMoney, and others Linda uses in her practice
• [12:00] Linda’s client engagement process and how she segments clients
• [15:00] Handling clients that may no longer fit within your practice
• [17:00] The increasing interest in reverse mortgages and liability management
• [19:00] Linda’s approach to leveraging debt in financial planning
• [21:00] Final thoughts for advisors: The importance of getting a financial plan and encouraging women to enter the profession

Resources Mentioned:

• HolistaPlan: Tax Planning Software
• eMoney: Financial Planning Software
• FP Pathfinder: Financial Planning Decision-Making Tool

Connect with Us:
Reach out to Linda with your questions or feedback. Polwrek Financial

Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to Nurturing Success for more insights from industry leaders. Stay tuned for the next episode, where we continue to explore successful financial strategies and practices. If you are interested in being our next guest, reach out to jack@smplmortgage.com to get scheduled. 

Episode 2: Colin Mackenzie of Cetera Advisors

Host: John Thompson

Guest: Colin Mackenzie, CFP®, Financial Advisor at Cetera

In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson interviews Colin Mackenzie, a seasoned financial advisor and leader at Cetera. They discuss Colin’s journey from the military to the world of financial services, the importance of mentorship, the power of compounding, and how to thrive as a financial advisor. Colin also shares his thoughts on the current market environment, the value of leveraging technology, and the significance of liability management in financial planning.

What You'll Learn:

• Colin's transition from military service to financial advising
• The power of compounding and why it’s crucial in investing
• The importance of mentorship and how unwitting mentors can shape your career
• How financial advisors can use questions to better understand clients’ deeper needs
• Strategies for navigating current market volatility
• The critical role of liability management and mortgage planning in overall financial health
• The value of building relationships and asking for what you want in your career

Timestamps:

• [00:00] Introduction to the episode and guest, Colin Mackenzie
• [01:00] Colin’s background: From military service to financial services
• [02:00] What Colin is grateful for: Relationships, time, and mentorship
• [04:00] Mentorship in the financial services industry
• [05:00] The power of compounding and Darren Hardy’s The Compound Effect
• [07:00] Technology and financial advising: The balance between tools and human interaction
• [08:00] The importance of asking deep questions to uncover clients' true needs
• [12:00] Current market conditions and advice for navigating volatility
• [16:00] DIY investors and the role of professional advisors
• [19:00] Bringing on the next generation: Internships and transitioning client relationships
• [22:00] The critical role of liability management and mortgage planning in financial success
• [25:00] Advice for financial advisors: Get in front of people and ask for what you want

Resources Mentioned:

• The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy
• The George Kinder Institute: Life Planning Course
• YCharts: Financial analysis and research tool

Connect with Us:
Reach out to Colin with your questions or feedback. Reach Out!

Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to Nurturing Success for more insights from industry leaders. Stay tuned for the next episode, where we continue to explore successful financial strategies and practices. If you are interested in being our next guest, reach out to jack@smplmortgage.com to get scheduled. 

Episode 1: Vanessa Burnett of Bridge Advisory

Host: John Thompson

Guest: Vanessa Burnett, CFP® CEO of Bridge Advisory

In the inaugural episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson sits down with Vanessa Burnett, the CEO and a Certified Financial Planner at Bridge Advisory. They discuss Vanessa’s journey into financial planning, her approach to leadership and team building, and the growth strategies at Bridge Advisory. The conversation also touches on innovative practices in the financial planning industry, including the use of AI, reverse mortgages, and the integration of sports wealth management.

What You'll Learn:

• Vanessa’s path to becoming a financial planner and her passion for helping people manage their finances.
• The importance of culture in team-building and the hiring process at Bridge Advisory.
• Growth strategies for financial advisory firms, including recruiting and community networking.
• How Bridge Advisory is integrating sports wealth management and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) planning into their services.
• The role of reverse mortgages in financial planning and their benefits when used strategically.
• The impact of AI on the financial industry and how advisors can leverage it for efficiency.

Timestamps:

• [00:00] Introduction to the episode and guest, Vanessa Burnett
• [01:00] What Vanessa is grateful for: The importance of a strong, cohesive team
• [02:00] Discussion on hiring practices and integrating new team members into the culture at Bridge Advisory
• [03:00] Vanessa’s journey from a business analyst to a financial planner
• [06:00] The importance of having a deep understanding of all aspects of the financial planning process
• [07:00] Overview of Bridge Advisory’s structure and Vanessa’s role in client management and succession planning
• [09:00] Specialization in income and tax management strategies for retirees
• [12:00] Growth strategies: Client referrals, community networking, and effective use of LinkedIn for recruiting
• [16:00] Innovative practices: Solicitor RIA and sports wealth management
• [20:00] The impact of NIL on college athletes and the growing need for financial planning in sports
• [21:00] The role of AI in financial advisory: Efficiency, market analysis, and communication tools
• [24:00] Discussion on reverse mortgages and their strategic use in retirement planning
• [29:00] Final thoughts: Focusing on gratitude and what you can control in life and business

Resources Mentioned:

• E-Money Financial Planning Tool
• Case Study: The IRA Stretch

Connect with Us:
Reach out to Vanessa with your questions or feedback. Bridge Advisory 

Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to Nurturing Success for more insights from industry leaders. Stay tuned for the next episode, where we continue to explore successful financial strategies and practices. If you are interested in being our next guest, reach out to jack@smplmortgage.com to get scheduled.