AFO|Wealth Management Forward

In this episode, Rory speaks with Matt Tait, co-founder and CEO of Decimal and host of After Your First Million, about his firms growth, AI, and the latest accounting the accounting world. Discover how Matt's company, Decimal, is using AI to reduce manual work, allowing accountants to focus on high-level advisory services. 7 Find out how Decimal's decision to fully embrace AI, coupled with a global team model, has led to rapid growth and improved client experiences. Explore the major shifts happening in the profession including the untethering of employees from traditional work locations and the growing demand for flexible work models. Curious how AI can elevate your firm’s advisory services? Want to learn how forward-thinking companies are using technology to improve both employee satisfaction and client outcomes? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this engaging conversation with Decimal Co-Founder and CEO Matt Tait.

In this episode, Rory speaks with Dominic Piscopo, founder of Big 4 Transparency, about his mission to bring salary transparency to the accounting profession. Discover how Dominic’s own experience with underpaid roles at a Big 4 firm inspired him to create a platform where CPAs can anonymously share and access compensation data. Learn how Big 4 Transparency grew from a no-code tool shared on Reddit into a leading resource for real-time salary insights, used by professionals and firms alike. Get key insights from hiring data, such as differences in compensation between internal promotions and external hires, the persistence of the gender pay gap, and trends in job satisfaction within the accounting profession. Are you curious to know how much more external hires typically earn compared to internal promotions? Want to learn how real-time compensation data can benefit your firm or career? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this fascinating conversation with Dominic Piscopo.

In this episode, Rory speaks with Jeff Bartsch, founder of Story Greenlight and veteran content creator for networks like ABC, NBC, and Netflix, about the transformative power of strategic storytelling. Jeff shares his insights on how the elements of a compelling story: character, desire, obstacles, and transformation can be applied to client relationships to create deeper, more meaningful connections. Learn why moving beyond transactional communication and embracing a “human-first” approach is key to engaging clients in a way that resonates with clients on an emotional level. Jeff also dives into how strategic storytelling can help advisors guide clients through complex decisions by framing data within a narrative that speaks to what matters most to them. Are you looking to elevate your communication skills and build stronger client relationships? Curious about how storytelling can unlock growth in your practice? Find out the answers to these questions and more on this Human First storytelling episode with Jeff Bartsch.

In this episode, Rory speaks with Nicole Davis, Chief Hello Officer at Butler Davis Accounting and co-founder of The Modern Bookkeeper, about identifying opportunities and leading through change. Nicole shares how her focus on client relationships and a holistic approach has allowed her to help small business owners become financially fit. Discover how she turned a payroll company acquisition into a strategic growth engine for her firm by focusing on delegation and empowering her team to deliver exceptional client service. Do you want to know how to become more authentic when leading others? Are you interested in learning about the flattery and complimentary glow effect? Find out the answer to these questions and more with CEO and Chief Hello Officer Nicole Davis.

In this episode, Rory speaks with Alan Whitman, former CEO and Chairman of Baker Tilly, about his philosophy of “Break the Mold” and how it has shaped his approach to leadership and innovation. Learn why Alan believes that intentional evolution, rather than revolution, is the key to modernizing the accounting profession and why asking “what will it take?” instead of “can we do it?” opens the door to greater growth. He shares his thoughts on the role of private equity as a catalyst for change and how firms can embrace technology and relationships to move beyond transactional models. Discover the importance of developing a strategy that aligns both professional and personal goals to create meaningful success. Are you looking to reimagine your firm’s future? Want to learn how to implement intentional change that drives growth? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this insightful conversation with Alan Whitman.

In this episode, Rory speaks with Samantha Lamas, a behavioral researcher at Morningstar, about the crucial but often neglected aspect of retirement: emotional preparedness. Discover how retirement is evolving beyond the traditional notion of leisure and why it’s essential to consider the psychological transitions alongside financial planning. Learn why Samantha emphasizes the importance of routines, social connections, and redefining life purpose to ensure a fulfilling retirement. She shares insights into the Perma-V framework and how it can help retirees align their financial goals with their life values, creating a more meaningful post-work life. Samantha also offers practical tips such as mapping out an ideal week before retirement and incorporating new habits like scheduling regular social interactions to maintain mental and emotional well-being. Are you wondering how to help yourself or your clients emotionally transition into retirement? Do you want to know what steps you can take to build a purpose-driven retirement plan? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this engaging discussion with behavioral researcher Samantha Lamas. Perma-V Framework: https://positiveworkplaces.squarespace.com/articles/empowering-self-through-permav-model How Advisors Can Create Financial Plans That Reflect What Investors Really Want: https://www.morningstar.com/financial-advisors/how-advisors-can-create-financial-plans-that-reflect-what-investors-really-want

In this episode, Rory welcomes Alex Kirby, CEO of Total Family, to discuss how families can uncover and pursue their life visions. Learn how Alex transitioned from banking to leading a company that focuses on defining and aligning family values, purpose, and roles to create a meaningful vision. Discover why having a clear vision is essential not only for navigating major life decisions but also for strengthening relationships across generations. Alex shares practical strategies for helping families communicate more effectively, ensuring that their values and goals are passed down and understood by all members. Learn how you can take proactive steps in your relationships through exercises like the "social universe," which helps you evaluate the quality and frequency of your interactions. Are you curious about how to create a lasting family legacy? Do you want to know how to define a vision that guides your family’s future? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this inspiring conversation with Total Family CEO Alex Kirby.

Jamie Peebles, Founder and CEO of Knuula, shares his transformation from lawyer to tech innovator. He emphasizes balancing rapid problem-solving with user feedback over perfection. Jamie discusses the hurdles in launching a tech startup, stressing the importance of persistence and a supportive network. He delves into modernizing document workflows in accounting and the potential of AI to enhance client engagement. Packed with insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, Jamie highlights creating financially viable solutions and the shift towards a technology-driven client-centered approach.

In this episode, Rory discusses the Global Market sell off that occurred on Monday, August 5th, and essential strategies for navigating market fluctuations using behavioral finance insights. Listen as he covers some of the recent alarming headlines that can trigger impulsive decisions among investors. Rory introduces the 4 R's framework by Doug Lennick—Recognize, Reflect, Reframe, and Respond—which helps shift decision-making from emotional to rational responses. Additionally, he highlights Samantha Lamas' Morningstar article, emphasizing the importance of focusing on long-term goals and making thoughtful decisions during market volatility. Rory also explores Vanguard's Advisor Alpha decades-long study and their philosophy of the 3 P's—Planning, Proactivity, and Positivity—for managing your mindset during market fluctuations. How can you maintain a rational mindset during periods of market volatility? What role do financial advisors play in helping investors avoid impulsive decisions? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this Global Market episode. Vanguard Market Hindsight Tool: https://advisors.vanguard.com/financial-planning/market-hindsight/ Samantha Lamas Morningstar Article: https://www.morningstar.com/personal-finance/key-surviving-global-market-selloff-be-lazy This material contains opinions of the participants but not necessarily those of Arrowroot Family Office, its affiliated companies, directors, and employees. The opinions contained herein are subject to change without notice. Forward looking statements, estimates, and certain information contained herein are based upon proprietary and non-proprietary research and other sources. Information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable but are not assured as to accuracy. There is neither representation nor warranty as to the current accuracy of, nor liability for, decisions based on such information. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Content should not be construed as investment, legal or tax advice. The information in this communication is for informational purposes only and is neither an offer to purchase, nor a solicitation of an offer to sell, subscribe for or buy any securities or the solicitation of any vote in any jurisdiction pursuant to the proposed transactions or otherwise, nor shall there be any sale, issuance, or transfer of securities in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

In this episode, Rory speaks with Jody Padar, the Radical CPA, about the future of CPA firms and her latest book, "Radical Pricing." Discover why Jody believes the traditional CPA firm model won't exist by 2030 and how private equity and fintech are transforming the accounting profession. Learn about the critical need for firms to adapt their pricing models and business practices in response to new technologies like AI. Jody also shares insights on how firms can improve customer experiences and optimize operations to stay competitive in the "One Click" world that we live in. Learn how identifying personas like "Construction Chuck," "Seller Sara," and "Journalist Jody" can help you tailor services to meet specific client needs. Are you interested to hear how private equity and fintech are disrupting the status quo? Do you want to know how you can prepare for a future where AI will do most of the knowledge work? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this episode with "The Radical CPA" Jody Padar.