When Values No Longer Align: An Ex-Wells Fargo Advisor’s Leap to Independence
The Diamond Podcast for Financial Advisors
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Navigating Independence in Financial Advisory
This chapter explores the transition of financial advisors from traditional captive models to independent advisory firms. It highlights the importance of client-centered values, thorough planning, and the use of external support during this journey. Additionally, the discussion covers strategies for managing health benefits and the advantages of flexibility in small advisory firms compared to larger organizations.
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Overview
Brian Pultman discusses why he chose independence over taking a wirehouse transition deal. However, as he candidly shares, building your own RIA is not always a smooth process, yet it resulted in aligning his values while building $1B+ Correct Capital Wealth Management.
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NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation.
About this episode…
There are plenty of stories about advisors going independent, but few are as honest, candid, or humble as this one.
After more than 25 years at Wells Fargo, Brian Pultman made the leap to independence—not because he was chasing a big check or a headline deal, but because he knew his values no longer aligned with the firm. What followed was anything but easy. Like many founders, Brian faced a rocky transition, long hours, tough decisions, and moments of real uncertainty.
However, in the process, Brian discovered something even more valuable: clarity. Clarity about the kind of business he wanted to build, the kind of leader he wanted to be, and what really mattered most to him as an advisor.
In this episode, Brian shares his journey with Jason Diamond, including:
- The transition from wirehouse to independence—and what it really takes to get from here to there.
- The process of starting over—and why, after decades in the business, Brian was open to doing so.
- The things that really matter most—and how that realization shaped his decision process.
- The power of leaning into education—and what he found to be the most powerful resources.
- Building a billion-dollar firm—and how his leap to independence fueled that growth.
It’s a conversation about building in-house vs. outsourcing, about making intentional decisions, and about how every day in this business is a chance to get better—both for your clients and yourself. And above all, it’s a reminder that growth isn’t just about numbers: it’s about aligning your business with your values and creating something that reflects who you are.
Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002.
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Brian I. Pultman
FOunder & CEO
As the founder of Correct Capital Wealth Management, Brian has had the honor and privilege of being a trusted advisor to families, institutions, and corporations for over 30 years. Brian not only brings decades of experience and knowledge in wealth management but provides access to his vast network of relationships and resources to connect and help individuals succeed.
“I never take for granted the trust and friendship our valued clients extend to us – it’s a privilege.”
Starting in 1993, Brian worked at A.G. Edwards, which later became Wells Fargo Advisors. He is a National “Top 1200 Advisor” (received in 2024) as ranked by Barron’s Magazine, and is ranked as a Small Business Monthly “Best Wealth Managers in St. Louis” (received in 2024). When working with clients, Brian strives to serve as his clients’ advocate by focusing on their individual goals and objectives and making recommendations accordingly.
Outside of Correct Capital, Brian is called upon for leadership and is passionate about giving back in the St. Louis community. He is an Executive Board member of the St. Louis Men’s Group Against Cancer and Executive Board Member of the Jewish Community Center. He is consistently recognized as a supporter of Pedal the Cause, Multiple Sclerosis Society, and is a member of the Eagle Scout Association.
Around St. Louis, you might find Brian running or biking in Forest Park, or taking morning swims at the J. He enjoys competing in triathlons and traveling – his favorite memory is climbing Machu Picchu with his family in Peru.
Brian is a lifetime resident of St. Louis and lives with his wife Mindy, in Clayton. Their daughter, Sydney, and son, Sam, are professionals in Chicago.
Brian earned his B.S. in Business Administration from University of Missouri-Columbia. As an extension of his desire to serve clients, Brian has a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification. To earn the CFP® designation, Brian had to complete an approved educational program, pass a rigorous examination and meet stringent experience requirements. Brian also adheres to a professional Code of Ethics and he fulfills annual continuing education requirements to remain aware of current planning strategies and financial trends.
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