Focused on the Future Purpose-Driven Planning in the Age of AI
In this episode of Focused on the Future, host Suzanne Siracuse speaks with Lee Korn, co-founder of Opal Wealth Advisors, about how his firm is growing by focusing on people, purpose and process.
Lee explains how Opal begins every client relationship by uncovering meaningful life goals, not just financial ones, using a discovery process rooted in George Kinder’s life planning framework. While AI tools enhance advisors’ ability to deliver services like tax and estate planning more efficiently, Lee emphasizes that real client transformation comes from human insight, accountability and connection.
The conversation turns to talent development, where Lee shares how Opal’s training program focuses on technical expertise, communication skills and personal development. Weekly “Opal Insights” sessions, communication workshops and outside trainings help younger advisors grow into confident, effective professionals.
Key insights include:
- How AI tools helped solve a complex client matter faster than seasoned accountants and attorneys
- Why Lee believes advisors won’t be replaced by tech but enhanced into “bionic advisors”
- Opal’s culture of Ikigai, helping team members align personal purpose with professional roles
- Opal’s unique training approach, blending technical knowledge, communication skills and life planning
- The firm’s Opal Insights sessions and how constant learning fuels team cohesion and client relationships
Resources:
- Listen to Focused on the Future on WealthManagement.com
- Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Apple Podcasts
- Subscribe and listen to Focused on the Future on Spotify
Connect With Suzanne Siracuse:
Connect With Lee Korn:
- Website: Opal Wealth Advisors
- LinkedIn: Opal Wealth Advisors
- LinkedIn: Lee Korn
- Email: lee.korn@opalwealthadvisors.com
About Our Guest:
Lee Korn is committed to seeing clients succeed. He loves to brainstorm ideas to arrive at the best solutions—and he stands side-by-side with clients to help make sure those solutions are effectively implemented. In particular, Lee enjoys assisting business owners in identifying opportunities and strategies to take their companies to the next level. With a forward-thinking outlook, he also helps Opal remain at the forefront of the financial planning industry.
Before forming Opal Wealth Advisors with partners Jesse Giordano and Joe Filosa, Lee co-founded the 360 Group at Morgan Stanley, where he was a financial advisor and family wealth director. In 2009, Barron’s named him as one of the top 1200 U.S. Financial Advisors. Previously, he worked at Edward Jones as a personal wealth manager. He began his career as a commercial banker, helping successful business owners raise capital for acquisition and expansion.
Lee graduated from Queens College in New York City with a degree in accounting. Active in his community, he has volunteered extensively with special needs organizations. Lee has a wife and three children. He upholds a strong commitment to helping young people develop good values as well as leadership and life skills. He is a Cub Scout Cubmaster and an active board member at his temple.