Is true independence possible at scale? In this episode of the RIA Edge podcast, host David Armstrong talks with Concurrent CEO Nate Lenz about how his fast-growing RIA platform is helping advisors stay independent while accessing the scale, capital and talent needed to grow. 

From multi-custodial flexibility to a unique minority partnership model, Lenz shares what is energizing younger advisors looking to remain independent, even as pressures to scale drive business strategy and soaring RIA valuations keep many from being able to afford the benefits of firm ownership. 

Key takeaways:

- Why Concurrent launched a “minority, non-control” capital program backed by capital partner Merchant to take ownership stakes in RIAs, arguing the approach aligns incentives with advisors and avoids the roll-up model that often strips away autonomy.
- How the firm’s “Basecamp” platform creates efficiencies that advisors could not achieve alone, even as they retain their own brands and client relationships, and how a “powered by Concurrent” co-branding with partner firms can preserve local culture while signaling national strength.
- How his firm is addressing the “talent wars” by turning inward and building training programs for new advisors. Lenz has a goal to train 100 new advisors over five years through a structured apprenticeship model.
- How Concurrent is using its large 401(k) plan sponsor base and partnerships with firms like TIFIN to create new organic growth channels.
- How higher interest rates have compressed valuations and raised the cost of capital in the RIA M&A market, yet not all firms will respond in the same way. Some well-capitalized firms with equity to deploy still have a strong edge even as they steer clear of auction-style deals where buyers pay unsustainable multiples.

Resources:

Listen to the RIA Edge Podcast on WealthManagement.com: https://bit.ly/3YVhfof 
Listen and Subscribe to the RIA Edge Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3RFXCPn 
Listen and Subscribe to the RIA Edge Podcast on Spotify: https://bit.ly/44Cbwd5 
 
Connect With David Armstrong:
 
WealthManagement.com: http://bit.ly/3RKHvyY 
LinkedIn: WealthManagement.com: https://bit.ly/3YkoRAv 
LinkedIn: David Armstrong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/djamesarmstrong/ 
Twitter: David Armstrong: https://twitter.com/djamesarmstrong 
LinkedIn: Informa: https://bit.ly/3leEF9g 

Connect With Nate Lenz:

Website: Concurrent - https://poweredbyconcurrent.com/ 
LinkedIn: Concurrent - https://www.linkedin.com/company/poweredbyconcurrent/ 
LinkedIn: Nate Lenz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-lenz/ 

About Our Guest:

With more than a decade of financial industry experience, Nate Lenz is a leader for advisors looking to realize their potential as entrepreneurs. He is currently the CEO and Co-Founder of Concurrent, a $7 billion OSJ turned RIA that was named an InvestmentNews Best Place to Work in 2023. Concurrent is driven by partnering with advisors to help them grow their independent businesses.

Nate’s career has focused on supporting financial advisors, empowering them to succeed without the backing of big financial services companies. Prior to his work at Concurrent, he was a Co-Founder and Managing Partner at I&A Consulting, focusing on mergers and acquisitions and recruiting experienced advisors. Before that, he was VP of Succession Planning & Acquisitions at Raymond James Financial Services, where he led the in-house consulting team that provided support to 4,000+ RJ independent financial advisors. His previous work helped shape his vision for Concurrent and deepen his investment in guiding independent financial advisors through all phases of the business life cycle.

He graduated from Columbia University and was recognized in 2022 as an InvestmentNews 40 Under 40 honoree.

RIA Edge Podcast: Concurrent’s Nate Lenz on True Independence at Scale

Giorgio Armani left behind more than fashion when he passed away at 91. His $12 billion empire, absence of direct heirs and a carefully crafted foundation raise essential estate planning lessons that extend beyond celebrity headlines.

Kevin Ghassomian, partner at Venable LLP, explains how Armani separated wealth from control, empowered trusted collaborators, and institutionalized his brand to ensure continuity. He emphasizes the importance of early planning, communication and mission-driven structures in preserving wealth and vision.

Join WealthManagement.com Senior Editor David Lenok and Kevin for a compelling discussion on the lasting lessons Armani’s estate provides for families, advisors and business owners alike.
Key takeaways:

- Armani’s early planning, which began in 2016, allowed for a structured succession strategy
- The separation of personal assets from business assets to protect brand identity
- The creation of a foundation to act as the steward of Armani’s legacy, ensuring mission-driven continuity
- The benefits and challenges of planning without a spouse or children, highlighting freedom vs. overwhelm
- Practical lessons business owners of all sizes can apply, such as buy-sell agreements, trusts and meaningful communication.

Resources:

Listen to Celebrity Estates on WealthManagement.com: https://bit.ly/3GAVENN 
Subscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/4m263CC 
Subscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Spotify: https://bit.ly/42V80b7 
Trust and Estates Magazine: https://bit.ly/3XXqoPn 

Connect With David Lenok:

david.lenok@informa.com 
https://www.wealthmanagement.com/ 
LinkedIn: David Lenok: https://bit.ly/DavidLenokLI 
LinkedIn: Informa: https://bit.ly/InformaLI 
LinkedIn: WealthManagement: https://bit.ly/WealthManagementLI 

Connect With Kevin Ghassomian:
 
Website: Venable LLP - https://www.venable.com/ 
LinkedIn: Venable LLP - https://www.linkedin.com/company/venablellp/ 
LinkedIn: Kevin Ghassomian - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-ghassomian-0363233/ 

About Our Guest:

Kevin Ghassomian focuses his practice on the personal legal needs of business owners, corporate executives, high-net-worth individuals, and their families. Kevin's representation covers all aspects of domestic and international estate planning, with an emphasis on tax minimization, asset protection, business succession, and philanthropy. Kevin also counsels individual and corporate fiduciaries on the administration of trusts and estates, including the preparation of gift and estate tax returns and defense of positions taken on those returns.

Kevin previously worked in the New York City headquarters of a global investment company, where he counseled a multinational client base on complex wealth management matters, including foreign and domestic trust planning and related asset allocation strategies. Kevin leverages this background to collaborate with tax, investment, and insurance advisors, ensuring that their work is effectively integrated into the planning process.

In addition to his law practice, Kevin is a frequent speaker, a published author, and a former professor of law, concentrating his scholarship on estate planning, taxation, and various wealth management topics. He also devotes time to numerous civic and charitable causes, maintaining leadership positions on several nonprofit boards.

Celebrity Estates: Giorgio Armani’s $12B Legacy and Succession Plan

In this episode of the RIA Edge podcast, host David Armstrong speaks with Kay Lynn Mayhue, president of Merit Financial, about the firm’s approach to growth as it reaches $24 billion in assets under management and celebrates its 50th acquisition. Mayhue discusses Merit's recent capital partnership with Constellation Wealth and how the firm balances aggressive M&A activity with organic growth initiatives.

Mayhue explains Merit's three partnership models—succession, leadership, and growth—and how the firm has evolved to attract larger, more sophisticated advisory practices. She emphasizes Merit's philosophy that organic growth responsibility belongs at the company level rather than with individual advisors, allowing advisors to focus on client relationships while the firm develops strategic alliances and referral programs to drive new business.

Key insights:

- How Merit Financial maintains a unified brand across all 50+ offices, which Mayhue credits with creating operational efficiencies while still allowing advisors significant autonomy within established guardrails
- How the firm's approach to advisor efficiency varies based on client demographics and advisor growth potential, with top producers receiving additional support to maintain growth capacity
- How strategic partnerships with CPAs, banks, and retirement plan advisors serve as critical organic growth channels for Merit advisors
- How Merit's leadership team development has been crucial to its scaling strategy, with Mayhue advising firms to hire strategic leadership positions earlier than they think necessary

Resources:

Listen to the RIA Edge Podcast on WealthManagement.com: https://bit.ly/3YVhfof 
Listen and Subscribe to the RIA Edge Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3RFXCPn 
Listen and Subscribe to the RIA Edge Podcast on Spotify: https://bit.ly/44Cbwd5 
 
Connect With David Armstrong:
 
WealthManagement.com: http://bit.ly/3RKHvyY 
LinkedIn: WealthManagement.com: https://bit.ly/3YkoRAv 
LinkedIn: David Armstrong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/djamesarmstrong/ 
Twitter: David Armstrong: https://twitter.com/djamesarmstrong 
LinkedIn: Informa: https://bit.ly/3leEF9g 

Connect With Kay Lynn Mayhue:

Merit Financial Advisors: https://www.meritfinancialadvisors.com/ 
LinkedIn: Merit Financial Advisors: https://www.linkedin.com/company/meritfinancialadvisors/ 
LinkedIn: Kay Lynn Mayhue: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaylynnmayhue/ 

About Our Guest:

Kay Lynn Mayhue, CFP®, AEP®, RFC®, has played many roles in the financial advisory industry: as a successor, partner, seller, and buyer. This unique and diverse background allows her to be able to relate to advisors in all phases of their careers and mergers and acquisitions.

With a background in financial planning and leadership, her career spans several areas, including advising clients, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic growth. Kay Lynn worked her way up from an entry-level position to earn her seat at the C-Suites table as President of Merit, which oversees $15.96 billion* in RIA and Brokerage assets under management. She holds her CFP®, AEP®, and RFC® and has been a critical decision-maker for two firms over the past twenty years.

Kay Lynn has overseen multiple mergers and acquisitions over the past four years and has been recognized for her position as a female leader in the financial services industry. She is passionate about helping people take their careers – and themselves – to exceptional levels. Kay Lynn’s influence in the industry and her drive for success a driving factors in Merit's ongoing growth and appeal to growth-oriented advisors. 

RIA Edge Podcast: Building a National RIA Brand Without Losing Identity with Kay Lynn Mayhue

Family offices sit at the intersection of complexity and innovation, where the stakes are high and trust is everything. The challenge isn’t just adopting new tools, but ensuring they deliver security, transparency, and personalization for ultra-high-net-worth families. In this environment, technology has shifted from back-office infrastructure to the front line of client engagement.

In this episode, host Shannon Rosic speaks with Dan Burke, chief technology officer and founding partner at Callan Family Office, about how CTOs balance innovation with risk, build client-driven tech roadmaps, and why reporting and data remain the backbone of digital transformation in wealth management.

They discuss:

- His journey from investment analyst to CTO and the founding of Callan Family Office
- Why ultra-high-net-worth families need more than just investment management
- The role of trust, data and assumptions in adopting AI tools
- How Callan approaches risk management, cybersecurity and process improvement
- The Tax Overlay Management program for after-tax optimization

Resources:

Listen to WealthStack on WealthManagement.com: https://bit.ly/4jZQmKi 
Subscribe and listen to WealthStack on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/4cXKleN 
Subscribe and listen to WealthStack on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3RJwMG0 

Connect with Shannon Rosic:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonrosic/
WealthStack website: https://informaconnect.com/wealthstack/ 
WealthManagement.com: https://www.wealthmanagement.com

Connect with Dan Burke:
 
LinkedIn: Dan Burke - https://www.linkedin.com/in/burke-danielp/ 
Website: Callan Family Office - https://callanfamilyoffice.com/ 

About Our Guest:

Dan Burke serves as Chief Technology Officer at Callan Family Office and leads the development of the firm’s integrated technology offering for ultra-high-net-worth families and family offices.

Dan brings 20 years of tax-efficient portfolio construction and investment technology experience to his role guiding the firm’s technology strategy. He oversees data management, system integration, and the aggregated reporting platform that empowers Callan Family Office professionals to deliver customized advice and solutions. Dan manages a key component of this platform, CFO’s Tax Overlay Management program, and works directly with clients to design portfolios that seek to maximize after-tax, net-of-fee investment returns.

In addition to his technology leadership, Dan serves as a Co-Chair of the Callan Family Office Investment Committee.

Previously, Dan was Managing Director and Head of Institutional OCIO at Wells Fargo Private Bank, leading investment management for its largest institutional and philanthropic clients. He also held senior roles at Abbot Downing, where he led portfolio construction and developed the firm’s tax-efficient portfolio management framework. Dan began his career as an investment analyst at Morgan Stanley.

Dan earned his MBA with High Honors from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, specializing in Finance, Econometrics, and Statistics. He holds a BBA in Finance, Magna Cum Laude, from Bowling Green State University and is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).

The WealthStack Podcast: Inside the CTO Mindset at a Modern Family Office with Dan Burke

Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue—it’s a boardroom priority. In this episode, we explore practical steps boards and CFOs can take to strengthen their company’s defenses. Drawing on insights from Kevin P. Mulleady, we discuss integrating cybersecurity into governance, conducting risk assessments, promoting a security-focused culture, and preparing with an effective incident response plan. Discover how leadership-driven security can protect finances, data, and stakeholder trust in today’s fast-changing digital landscape.
https://www.equitynet.com/c/kevin-mulleady

Cybersecurity at the Top Practical Steps for Boards and CFOs

KICK Advisory Services provides professional Investment Advisory Services designed to help individuals and businesses make informed financial decisions. With a client-centric approach and deep market expertise, we deliver customized strategies that optimize returns, manage risks, and support long-term wealth creation.

Visit us:- https://www.kickadvisory.com/

Expert Investment Advisory Services for Smarter Financial Growth

Description
 Matthew Johnson, President of Johnson Wealth and Income Management, breaks down Jerome Powell’s latest comments and why they remind him of Alan Greenspan’s famous 1996 warning about “irrational exuberance.”

In this episode of The Capitalized Life and Retirement Show, Matthew looks at the market’s current valuations, the history of Fed actions, and what this could mean for retirees who are focused on income and protecting their nest egg.

You’ll learn:

• Why Powell’s remarks about “fairly highly valued” equities rattled investors
• How past Fed moves in 1996, 2007, and 2021 shaped market outcomes
• What the Shiller PE ratio says about today’s market
• Why retirees should focus on risk management and income security

👉 Website: https://www.johnsonwim.com/   Matthew P. Johnson is president and owner of Johnson Wealth and Income Management, a third-generation company that has been serving clients for over 75 years. Matthew has been advising clients in the financial services industry since 1999. He strives to educate clients on how to invest for income, how to help avoid loss by utilizing more conservative investment options, and is dedicated to helping them achieve a well-planned retirement.  Johnson Wealth and Income Management is committed to educating their clients and the community through workshops on topics related to more conservative investment alternatives.  Investment Advisory Services offered through Sound Income Strategies, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisory Firm. Johnson Wealth and Income Management and Sound Income Strategies, LLC are not associated entities. Johnson Wealth and Income Management is a franchisee of Retirement Income Source, LLC. Retirement Income Source, LLC and Sound Income Strategies, LLC are associated entities.

Financial Deja Vu

Welcome to the one hundred fifty-seventh episode of the #ExpatChat podcast, where we explore the latest tax, investment, and financial issues affecting #AustralianExpats. In this episode, Atlas Wealth Group Managing Directors Brett Evans and James Ridley unpack an important topic — When Should an Expat use a Trust.

Brett and James discuss the role of family trusts in financial planning and explain why these structures, while useful for Australian residents, can create unintended tax consequences for expats. They highlight that family trusts are generally treated as Australian tax residents, meaning non-resident expats could face unexpected capital gains tax liabilities when holding shares or assets within a trust.

Whether you’re currently living overseas or planning an international move, this episode offers valuable guidance to help you make informed decisions about structuring and managing your wealth.

Links discussed in this episode:
• Upcoming Seminars & Webinars – atlaswealth.com/events
• Facebook Group – Join the Australian Expat Financial Forum: facebook.com/groups/AustralianExpatFinancialForum
• Ask Atlas – Submit your questions for the podcast: atlaswealth.com/news-media/australian-expat-podcast
• Expat Mortgage Podcast – atlaswealth.com/news-media/australian-expat-mortgage-podcast
• Weekly Recap Podcast – atlaswealth.com/news-media/atlas-weekly-recap-podcast

If you enjoy the content, let us know by giving the episode a thumbs up and subscribing. Feel free to share your feedback or questions in the comments below.

About Atlas Wealth Group:
Atlas Wealth Group was established to meet the growing demand from Australian expats for professional financial guidance. We specialise in providing tax, financial planning, wealth management, and mortgage services to Australian expats around the world. Whether you’re based in Asia, the Middle East, Europe, or the Americas, our team has the expertise to help you manage your global financial journey.

To learn more, visit www.atlaswealth.com

Connect with us:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/atlaswealthmgmt 
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/atlas-wealth-management
Twitter: www.twitter.com/atlaswealthmgmt
Instagram: www.instagram.com/atlaswealthgroup

Expat Chat Episode 157 - When Should an Expat use a Trust

Lisa Erickson spent 37 years in financial services, ultimately leading the Public Markets Due Diligence team at U.S. Bank, which manages over $500 billion in client assets. In addition to her business acumen, she was best known for her selflessness, positivity and character.
 
But earlier this year, Lisa chose to retire early after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, a movement disorder of the nervous system. She now enters a new phase of her life, having to deal with this illness.
 
That wasn’t the first personal hardship she’s faced. In 2020, she lost her husband, Chris, to a sudden and aggressive illness.
 
In this episode, WealthManagement.com Executive Editor Diana Britton is joined by Lisa Erickson, retired head of the Public Markets Due Diligence team in U.S. Bank’s Wealth Management’s Asset Management Group, who opens up about these personal struggles. These past few years have tested her strength in unimaginable ways, but they’ve also revealed lessons about grief, faith and finding purpose in the face of adversity.

Lisa discusses:

- Her path into financial services and leadership at U.S. Bank
- Losing her husband and the grieving process
- Life adjustments after his passing
- Receiving her Parkinson’s diagnosis and deciding to retire
- Coping strategies rooted in faith, gratitude and community
- The role financial advisors play in helping clients prepare for the unexpected

Resources:

Listen to The Healthy Advisor on WealthManagement.com: https://bit.ly/44iVJQ1 
Subscribe and listen to The Healthy Advisor on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/43aseim 
Subscribe and listen to The Healthy Advisor on Spotify: https://bit.ly/3EJ6914 

Connect With WealthManagement.com:

https://www.wealthmanagement.com/ 
Email: diana.britton@informa.com
LinkedIn: Diana Britton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-britton-8826b53/ 
LinkedIn: Informa: https://www.linkedin.com/company/informa/ 
LinkedIn: WealthManagement: https://bit.ly/WealthManagementLI 

Connect With Lisa Erickson:

LinkedIn: Lisa Erickson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lykopp/ 

About Our Guest:

Lisa Erickson is a seasoned financial professional who recently retired as Head of the Public Markets Due Diligence Team at U.S. Bank’s Wealth Management group, where she helped manage over $500 billion in assets. Beyond her successful career, she’s faced profound personal challenges, including the sudden loss of her husband and her own Parkinson’s diagnosis. Through it all, Lisa remains committed to living with gratitude, faith, and resilience, inspiring others with her courage and openness.

If you have a struggle and wish to share your experiences and help others in similar situations, please reach out to Diana at diana.britton@informa.com.

The Healthy Advisor: A Parkinson’s Diagnosis Prompts an Early Retirement With Lisa Erickson

Alternative investments have grown in popularity among investors seeking diversification beyond traditional stocks and bonds. Kevin Mulleady, a well-known investment strategist, emphasizes that exploring alternative assets can offer unique opportunities, but it is crucial to understand both their benefits and potential drawbacks before committing capital. These investments often include real estate, private equity, hedge funds, commodities, and collectibles. While they can enhance portfolio performance, they also require careful research and consideration.
https://www.instagram.com/kevinmulleady/?hl=en

Kevin Mulleady Shares Insights on Benefits and Drawbacks of Alternatives!

Wealthcare Capital Management’s evolution from a software pioneer to a national advisory platform reveals the power of strategic reinvention.

In this episode of the RIA Edge Podcast, host David Armstrong speaks with Matt Regan, president and CEO of Wealthcare Capital Management, about Wealthcare’s journey from its roots in Richmond, Va., to its sale to Sammons Financial. Matt shares how the firm is blending technology, M&A strategy and advisor support to create growth opportunities for independent advisors nationwide.

Matt and David also discuss the firm’s acquisition approach, the rise of supported independence and the ongoing transformation of the RIA space.

Matt discusses:

- Wealthcare’s beginnings as an investment planning software firm and its evolution into a full-service wealth management enterprise with some 200 affiliated advisors and $10 billion in AUM.
- The recent transaction, which saw ownership of the firm move from private equity investors NewSpring Capital to employee-owned Sammons Financial, a mid-sized financial services firm, and the potential to set up an independent wealth management vertical inside that organization.
- Why Wealthcare still purposefully targets sub-$1 billion firms for acquisitions, and how the war for talent, particularly next-gen, is feeding into Wealthcare’s dealmaking roadmap. (In fact, Wealthcare’s advisors are, overall, younger than the industry average.) 
- Why the firm has a goal to move more affiliated advisors, largely 1099 employees, into Wealthcare’s W-2 channel.
- Regan’s view on most of the digital marketing platforms currently available to advisors, and how AI may be the answer to truly move the needle on organic growth via improved lead generation and prospect nurturing.
- Why Regan is looking for an AI-enhanced small account investment platform for advisors to offer younger prospects who don’t—yet—make profitable full-service clients. 

Resources:

Listen to the RIA Edge Podcast on WealthManagement.com: https://bit.ly/3YVhfof 
Listen and Subscribe to the RIA Edge Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3RFXCPn 
Listen and Subscribe to the RIA Edge Podcast on Spotify: https://bit.ly/44Cbwd5 
 
Connect With David Armstrong:
 
WealthManagement.com: http://bit.ly/3RKHvyY 
LinkedIn: WealthManagement.com: https://bit.ly/3YkoRAv 
LinkedIn: David Armstrong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/djamesarmstrong/ 
Twitter: David Armstrong: https://twitter.com/djamesarmstrong 
LinkedIn: Informa: https://bit.ly/3leEF9g 

Connect With Matt Regan:

Wealthcare - https://www.wealthcaregdx.com 
LinkedIn: Wealthcare - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wealthcare-capital-management 
LinkedIn: Matt Regan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-regan-17ab64/ 

About Our Guest:

Matt Regan serves as Wealthcare’s President. Most recently and prior to Wealthcare, Matt served as the Chief Operating Officer of Wescott Financial, a $2 billion RIA based in Philadelphia. With more than two decades in the financial services industry, Matt has been involved in a number of transformative business models and has remained focused on building world-class organizations with a focus on the client. As a founding partner of WR Hambrecht+Co, Matt launched the retail brokerage offering and helped to design and launch the auction-based OpenIPO system. As a consultant to Vanguard, Matt was involved in the technology and business transformation that created the infrastructure that underlies the firm’s Personal Advisor Services offering. Matt is a graduate of the University of Toronto and resides outside Philadelphia with his wife and three children.

RIA Edge Podcast: CEO Matt Regan on Wealthcare’s New Owners, Future M&A and AI’s Organic Growth Potential

In this episode of Wealth Management Invest, host David Bodamer speaks with Todd Schlanger, CFA, senior investment strategist for multi-asset investing at Vanguard, to explore how advisors can approach portfolio construction in today’s market. 

Todd shares why the 60/40 portfolio still plays a crucial role, the rise of dynamic and active-passive strategies, and the increasing use of ETFs in model portfolios. He also explains Vanguard’s 13 investment strategies and highlights the role advisors can play in guiding client behavior during periods of market volatility.

Key takeaways:

- Why the 60/40 portfolio remains relevant as a long-term “all-weather” strategy
- How dynamic strategies adapt to capital market assumptions across more than 100 asset classes
- The growing role of ETFs, including passive and active approaches, in model portfolios
- Vanguard’s 13 strategies are designed to address diverse investor needs and objectives
- The importance of advisor behavioral coaching to help clients stay disciplined through volatility

Connect With David Bodamer:

david.bodamer@informa.com 
Website: https://www.wealthmanagement.com/ 
LinkedIn: David Bodamer : https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bodamer-9a0581a/  
LinkedIn: WealthManagement.com: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wealthmanagement-com/ 

Connect With Todd Schlanger

Vanguard - http://www.vanguard.com 
LinkedIn: Todd Schlanger - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-schlanger-cfa-b202523/ 

Resources:

Listen to the Wealth Management Invest Podcast on WealthManagement.com: https://bit.ly/3EHpeRh 
Listen and Subscribe to the Wealth Management Invest Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/4m1s30k 
Listen and Subscribe to the Wealth Management Invest Podcast on Spotify: https://bit.ly/4d0rD67 

Wealth Management Invest: Building Resilient Portfolios with Vanguard’s Todd Schlanger

Life changes, and your estate plan should change with it. Attorney Matthew Erskine joins the Celebrity Estates podcast to explain why estate planning is never a “set it and forget it” process, but a lifelong practice that evolves alongside major milestones.

Matthew walks through key life events from marriage and divorce to relocation and retirement and shares how each can reshape a client’s estate strategy. Drawing from years of experience, he highlights how small updates, communication and awareness of changes in the law can prevent major family disputes.

Join Senior Editor David Lenok and Matthew Erskine, ower of The Erksine Company, as they discuss how to keep estate plans living, relevant and aligned with every stage of life.

David and Matthew discuss:

- Why every major life event, from marriage to relocation, should trigger a review of your estate plan
- The importance of communication between family members to avoid future conflicts
- How to handle estate planning for beneficiaries facing personal challenges
- The impact of tax and law changes on existing estate documents
- Why advisors should treat estate plans as “living documents” and revisit them annually

Resources:

Listen to Celebrity Estates on WealthManagement.com: https://bit.ly/3GAVENN 
Subscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/4m263CC 
Subscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Spotify: https://bit.ly/42V80b7 
Trust and Estates Magazine: https://bit.ly/3XXqoPn 
Estate Plan Update Checklist by Matthew Erskine: https://bit.ly/4op84Ji 

Connect With David Lenok:

david.lenok@informa.com 
https://www.wealthmanagement.com/ 
LinkedIn: David Lenok: https://bit.ly/DavidLenokLI 
LinkedIn: Informa: https://bit.ly/InformaLI 
LinkedIn: WealthManagement: https://bit.ly/WealthManagementLI 

Connect With Matthew Erskine:
 
Erskine & Erskine - https://www.erskineanderskine.com/ 
LinkedIn: The Erskine Company - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-erskine-company/ 
LinkedIn: Matthew Erskine - https://www.linkedin.com/in/erskineco/ 

About Our Guest:

Matthew F. Erskine is an approachable, empathic estate and succession planning attorney who creatively and holistically solves families' unique asset and estate needs. He is the fourth generation of lawyers known for integrity and personal service. Matt concentrates on providing legal and fiduciary services for families with basic estates as well as real estate, unique assets, or a family business. Unlike most trust and estate attorneys, Matt's focus is on ensuring financial security while preserving the ownership of unique but often illiquid assets for the client and family.

Celebrity Estates: Updating Estate Plans Through Life’s Milestones

What happens when a schoolteacher from Ireland follows her curiosity halfway across the world and ends up helping shape one of the nation’s largest wealth management firms?

In this episode of the Focused on the Future podcast, host Suzanne Siracuse talks with Claire O’Keefe, partner and head of partner development at Cerity Partners, about her unconventional journey from education to wealth management and the people-first culture that drives firm growth.

Claire shares insights on career transitions, cultural alignment in mergers and acquisitions, the importance of organic growth and how investing in people powers the future of wealth management.

Claire discusses:

- How her travels from Ireland to the U.S. led to a career in wealth management
- The key trends shaping M&A decisions for RIAs, from succession planning to client experience
- Why cultural alignment and shared values determine successful partnerships
- How top-performing firms prioritize training, development, and broad ownership structures
- Her perspective on the future of small and solo firms in a rapidly evolving, AI-driven industry

Resources:

Listen to Focused on the Future on WealthManagement.com: https://bit.ly/4m0yHnC 
Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3EJ5MUe 
Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Spotify: https://bit.ly/44jXhJI 


Connect With Suzanne Siracuse:
 
LinkedIn: Suzanne Siracuse: https://bit.ly/4e8Zyt0 
Twitter: Suzanne Siracuse: https://x.com/suzsiracuse 
Email: Suzanne@suzannesiracuse.com

Connect With Claire O'Keefe:
 
Website: Cerity Partners - https://ceritypartners.com/ 
LinkedIn: Cerity Partners - https://www.linkedin.com/company/cerity-partners/ 
LinkedIn: Claire O'Keefe - https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-o-keefe-305b539/ 

About Our Guest:

Claire O’Keefe serves as Partner, Head of Partner Development, and member of the Leadership Team at Cerity Partners. She has a deep appreciation for the unique fabric of our firm which she regularly refers to as her “forever home”.

Central to Claire’s philosophy is human connection. As Head of Partner Development, she is passionate about building relationships with both current and prospective partners and colleagues who are excited by the vision of our firm, share our cultural values, and are committed to serving the best interests of clients, colleagues, and the communities in which we operate. She believes that authenticity, empathy, active listening, high emotional intelligence, and genuine curiosity, form the bedrock of effective communication and trusted relationships. In her words, “The magic of our partnership is our people.”

Cerity Partners is more than just a firm; it’s a community. A community where everyone’s voice counts, where an entrepreneurial spirit thrives, and where decisions prioritize our clients, free from external pressures.

Prior to joining Cerity Partners, Claire served as Chief Operating Officer and client advisor for two wealth management firms. In these roles, Claire’s responsibilities included strategic planning, client and colleague development, and client advisory for affluent individuals, business owners, executives, and nonprofit organizations.

Culture, Collaboration and Career Change with Cerity Partners’ Claire O’Keefe

Most retirees don’t realize how many decisions come with their pension or how those choices can impact income for the rest of their life.

In this episode of The Capitalized Life and Retirement Show, Matthew Johnson, president of Johnson Wealth and Income Management, breaks down the realities of pensions, why fewer Americans have them, and what you must understand before taking yours.

🎯 In this video, you'll learn:

• Why pension funding issues can threaten retirement security
• The difference between pension types and payout options
• How interest rates and markets impact pension value
• When a lump-sum rollover could make sense

👉 Check out our website: https://www.johnsonwim.com/   

Matthew P. Johnson is president and owner of Johnson Wealth and Income Management, a third-generation company that has been serving clients for over 75 years. Matthew has been advising clients in the financial services industry since 1999. He strives to educate clients on how to invest for income, how to help avoid loss by utilizing more conservative investment options, and is dedicated to helping them achieve a well-planned retirement.   Johnson Wealth and Income Management is committed to educating their clients and the community through workshops on topics related to more conservative investment alternatives.   

Investment Advisory Services offered through Sound Income Strategies, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisory Firm. Johnson Wealth and Income Management and Sound Income Strategies, LLC are not associated entities. Johnson Wealth and Income Management is a franchisee of Retirement Income Source, LLC. Retirement Income Source, LLC and Sound Income Strategies, LLC are associated entities.

Pension Tension

Family drama doesn’t end when the spotlight fades.

On this episode of the Celebrity Estates podcast, litigator Michael Napoleone joins Wealthmanagement.com Senior Editor David Lenok to unpack the bitter dispute over actor John Amos’s estate, and what it reveals about aging, trust and family dynamics.

From allegations of elder abuse and undue influence to sibling rivalries turned legal battles, Michael shares what really happens when communication and transparency break down. Drawing on years in the courtroom, he explains why longer lifespans, cognitive decline and blended families are fueling a rise in inheritance disputes — and how proactive planning can protect both wealth and relationships.

Key Takeaways:

- Why family disputes over caregiving and inheritance are rising as people live longer and cognitive decline increases
- How isolation, blended families and uneven caregiving fuel mistrust and legal challenges
- The difference between exploitation claims (while alive) and undue influence claims (after  death)
- The crucial role of fiduciaries and when a neutral party may prevent emotional and financial fallout
- Why clear communication about estate intentions can prevent surprise, resentment, and years of litigation

Resources:

Listen to Celebrity Estates on WealthManagement.com: https://bit.ly/3GAVENN 
Subscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/4m263CC 
Subscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Spotify: https://bit.ly/42V80b7 
Trust and Estates Magazine: https://bit.ly/3XXqoPn 

Connect With David Lenok:

david.lenok@informa.com 
https://www.wealthmanagement.com/ 
LinkedIn: David Lenok: https://bit.ly/DavidLenokLI 
LinkedIn: Informa: https://bit.ly/InformaLI 
LinkedIn: WealthManagement: https://bit.ly/WealthManagementLI 

Connect With Michael Napoleone:
 
Day Pitney, LLP - https://www.daypitney.com/ 
LinkedIn: Day Pitney, LLP - https://www.linkedin.com/company/day-pitney-llp/ 
LinkedIn: Michael Napoleone - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjnapoleone/ 

About Our Guest:

Michael Napoleone is a seasoned litigator with a proven track record of success representing businesses, individuals, and fiduciaries in complex, high-stakes disputes. He has litigated a wide array of matters, including theft of trade secrets, corporate shareholder disputes, contested wills and trusts, claims of fiduciary misconduct, land use conflicts, and high-value real estate litigation. His extensive courtroom experience spans jury trials, bench trials, appeals, and alternative dispute resolution forums such as arbitration and mediation.

Known for his strategic approach and persuasive advocacy, Michael is regularly called upon to handle cases where the outcome is critical and the legal issues are complex. His clients rely on him not only for his legal acumen but also for his ability to navigate sensitive, high-conflict situations with clarity and confidence.

In addition to his legal practice, Michael has held many leadership roles within the legal profession and local government. He is a past president of the Palm Beach County Bar Association and served on the Executive Board of the Palm Beach County Early Learning Coalition. He currently serves as the elected Mayor of the Village of Wellington, Second Vice President of the Palm Beach County League of Cities, and on the Executive Board of the Palm Beach County Transportation Planning Agency - positions that reflect his dedication to public service and his deep understanding of governmental and regulatory systems.

Michael's dual background as a skilled courtroom advocate and respected civic leader makes him a trusted advisor in both legal and policy arenas.

Celebrity Estates: The John Amos Estate Dispute with Michael Napoleone

Description
 In this episode of The Capitalized Life and Retirement Show, Matthew Johnson, president of Johnson Wealth and Income Management, breaks down why Roth IRAs and Roth conversions are powerful tools for long-term tax-free retirement income.

He explains how new tax laws, contribution limits, and timing rules make now the time to review your Roth strategy before 2026 changes take effect.

💡 You’ll learn:

• Why Roth IRAs can provide lifetime tax-free income
• Key age and contribution limits for 2025
• How Roth conversions work and deadlines you can’t miss
• Common mistakes to avoid before retirement

👉 Check out our website: https://www.johnsonwim.com/   

Matthew P. Johnson is president and owner of Johnson Wealth and Income Management, a third-generation company that has been serving clients for over 75 years. Matthew has been advising clients in the financial services industry since 1999. He strives to educate clients on how to invest for income, how to help avoid loss by utilizing more conservative investment options, and is dedicated to helping them achieve a well-planned retirement.  

Johnson Wealth and Income Management is committed to educating their clients and the community through workshops on topics related to more conservative investment alternatives.  Investment Advisory Services offered through Sound Income Strategies, LLC, an SEC Registered 

Investment Advisory Firm. Johnson Wealth and Income Management and Sound Income Strategies, LLC are not associated entities. Johnson Wealth and Income Management is a franchisee of Retirement Income Source, LLC. Retirement Income Source, LLC and Sound Income Strategies, LLC are associated entities.

Reasons for Roths

Balefire Wealth’s transformation from two thriving RIAs into a unified enterprise business with national ambitions showcases the strength of shared vision and cultural alignment.

In this episode of the RIA Edge Podcast, host David Armstrong chats with Jason Hester and John Hoffman, co-CEOs of Balefire Wealth—a new RIA formed from the merger of their two firms. They discuss combining their complementary businesses—one serving ultra-high-net-worth clients, the other focused on mass affluent and corporate retirement plans—to build an integrated wealth management platform. The conversation covers their collaborative leadership approach, focus on client and advisor growth, and plans to accelerate expansion in 2026.

They discuss:

- Why it took two years to merge their firms, yet only “32 seconds” to decide on co-CEO roles—and how they make the partnership work.
- How they built a team-based model serving clients from mass affluent to UHNW, with a unique planning process, client segmentation, and evolving family wealth services.
- How they launched with 16 advisor-owners, offering a path to ownership and no outside capital.
- Why they believe hybrid advisors focused beyond AUM will define the future and strengthen client relationships.
- Their 2026 plan to shift from recruiting to M&A growth, and how they view partnering with “smart money” investors.
- How their retirement plan business positions the firm as an HR partner helping companies tackle talent and retention challenges.

Resources:

Listen to the RIA Edge Podcast on WealthManagement.com: https://bit.ly/3YVhfof 
Listen and Subscribe to the RIA Edge Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3RFXCPn 
Listen and Subscribe to the RIA Edge Podcast on Spotify: https://bit.ly/44Cbwd5 
 
Connect With David Armstrong:

WealthManagement.com: http://bit.ly/3RKHvyY 
LinkedIn: WealthManagement.com: https://bit.ly/3YkoRAv 
LinkedIn: David Armstrong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/djamesarmstrong/ 
Twitter: David Armstrong: https://twitter.com/djamesarmstrong 
LinkedIn: Informa: https://bit.ly/3leEF9g 

Connect With Balefire Wealth:

Website: Balefire Wealth - https://balefirewealth.com/ 
LinkedIn: Balefire Wealth - https://www.linkedin.com/company/balefire-wealth/ 
LinkedIn: Jason Hester - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhesterbalefire/ 

About Jason Hester:

As Managing Partner and Co-CEO of Balefire Wealth, Jason Hester leads the firm’s strategic vision and oversees its multi-division growth across a national footprint. With 25 years of experience in organic growth, strategic leadership, and private wealth frameworks, he guides the development of holistic planning solutions for affluent families and corporate clients. Jason is deeply involved in capital strategy, advisor acquisition, post-merger integration, and platform optimization, while mentoring leadership and cultivating a culture of clarity, accountability, and innovation. He works closely with the Executive and Organic Growth Teams to ensure Balefire continues to set a new standard for enterprise advisory firms.

About John Hoffman:

For 20 years at Principal Financial, he excelled as an Advisor, Managing Director, and ultimately Regional Managing Director—roles where he shaped strategy, developed high-performing teams, and attracted top talent. Now, as Managing Partner of Balefire, John is responsible for the firm’s inorganic growth and has built a “one-team” culture in an industry that often operates in silos. He has created team-based values aligned with a bold new vision, ensuring talent thrives in an authentic and collaborative environment. His leadership centers on finding the right team players, creating alignment, and scaling the organization as a unified company.

RIA Edge Podcast: The Balefire Wealth Journey with Jason Hester and John Hoffman

In today’s competitive financial landscape, trust and reputation are the currencies that drive private equity success. In this episode, we explore how branding — often dismissed as mere marketing — has become a strategic necessity for private equity firms. Drawing inspiration from Kevin Mulleady, a respected finance executive and growth strategist, we uncover how a strong brand identity can transform investor confidence, streamline deal flow, and elevate long-term value.

https://www.instagram.com/kevinmulleady/?hl=en



Why Private Equity Firms Need Strong Branding — Lessons from Kevin Mulleady

KICK Advisory Services (“KICK’’) was founded in July 2020 by a team with an aggressive passion to drive corporate finance solutions in an era of unprecedented changes and volatility. At a time where businesses are faced with severe uncertainties, cash flow issues and are struggling to understand the dynamics of the changing world, we at KICK believe that sailing through the changing winds with a clear guide and focus will smoothen your business journey while giving you the cutting edge in competition to thrive in the new normal.

Kevin Mulleady is a strategic finance executive and skilled dealmaker known for sourcing, structuring, and executing high-impact, growth-driven transactions.

The Expat Chat Podcast by Atlas Wealth Management, part of the Atlas Wealth Group, is a podcast for Aussie expats living overseas who want to learn more about managing their finances as an expat.

Atlas Wealth Management is a specialist in providing Australian expat financial advice and planning and has been providing these services to Australian expats in over 50 countries

New tracks tagged #WealthManagement