

The Perfect RIA
Matthew Jarvis, CFP® & Micah Shilanski, CFP®
Welcome to The Perfect RIA podcast, the ultimate resource for advisors who want to master time management, optimize advisor-client interactions, achieve unparalleled profitability, and maximize value in their practice. Hosted by industry experts Matthew Jarvis, CFP®, and Micah Shilanski, CFP®, this podcast is your blueprint for success.
Matthew and Micah don't talk theory; they share what has worked for them in the real world. They cut through the noise to deliver practical advice that you can implement immediately so you can make the most of your time—allowing you to spend more of it outside the office.
Whether you're a seasoned advisor or just starting out, The Perfect RIA podcast equips you with the tools and knowledge you need to excel. Tune in and transform your advisory practice into a powerhouse of success.
Matthew and Micah don't talk theory; they share what has worked for them in the real world. They cut through the noise to deliver practical advice that you can implement immediately so you can make the most of your time—allowing you to spend more of it outside the office.
Whether you're a seasoned advisor or just starting out, The Perfect RIA podcast equips you with the tools and knowledge you need to excel. Tune in and transform your advisory practice into a powerhouse of success.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 25, 2025 • 27min
Counting the Reps: The Key to Growth [Episode 323]
Discover the concept of 'counting the reps' in financial advising and how true growth demands discomfort and discipline. Explore obstacles faced by small business owners and the importance of effective strategies for meaningful progress. Learn about mastering task execution and the value of proactive practice in client engagement. Delve into setting measurable outreach goals and the power of consistent practice in content creation. The episode emphasizes time management as a key to personal and professional success.

Aug 22, 2025 • 22min
Encore Episode: Why Aren’t You Delegating To A Virtual Assistant?
Feeling overwhelmed by tasks you can handle but shouldn't? Discover the perks of hiring a virtual assistant to maximize your productivity. The hosts dive into the common pitfalls of delegation and share how trust and communication are vital for success. They also explore the flexibility and budget advantages of virtual help compared to full-time employees. Get insights on effective collaboration that can transform your workflow and free up time for what truly matters.

Aug 21, 2025 • 34min
Navigating Oil & Gas Alternatives for High-Income Clients with Steve Blackwell
In this episode of The TPR podcast, Matthew Jarvis talks with Steve Blackwell about the role of oil and gas in alternative investing. Steve shares insights from his career shift after the 2008 financial crisis and explains how high-income earners can benefit from oil and gas through tax deductions and bonus depreciation. They discuss key risks, the importance of transparency, and why advisors must understand alternatives to better serve and retain clients. Navigating Oil & Gas Alternatives for High-Income Clients with Steve Blackwell Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Steve Blackwell Website| LinkedIn

Aug 18, 2025 • 24min
Navigating the New Age of Virtual Assistance With Julie Gilles [Episode 322]
In this episode of the TPR podcast, Matthew Jarvis speaks with Julie Gilles, Director of Talent at Belay, about the evolving landscape of hiring virtual assistants. They discuss the challenges posed by AI in the hiring process, the importance of training and onboarding, and how to build strong relationships with assistants. Julie shares insights on identifying red flags in candidates, preparing for turnover, and knowing when to part ways with an assistant. The conversation emphasizes the need for effective communication, trust, and the right talent to ensure success in the virtual assistance space. Navigating the New Age of Virtual Assistance With Julie Gilles [Episode 322] Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Julie Gilles: Website | LinkedIn

Aug 15, 2025 • 33min
Encore Episode: Did Surge Abandon You?
If you’re new to skiing and it’s your first day on the bunny slope, would you move to a double diamond on day two? No way! The same idea goes for surge. You can’t go from zero meetings to thirty and expect that it’ll go well and that you won’t burn out. On today’s episode, Matt and Micah talk through some of the most common myths and illusions about surge and why you want to live your ideal practice now. Encore Episode: Did Surge Abandon You? Resources in today's episode: - Micah Shilanski: Website | LinkedIn - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn

Aug 14, 2025 • 33min
Valuations in a Changing Market With Scott DiGiammarino
In this episode of the TPR Podcast, Matthew Jarvis and Scott DiGiammarino discuss the implications of the recent market downturn on valuations and client communications. They explore how historical market events can inform current practices, the importance of maintaining client relationships during turbulent times, and the evolving landscape of financial advisory practices. The conversation delves into the significance of talent in determining valuations, the necessity of developing the next generation of advisors, and the role of culture and environment in mergers and acquisitions. The episode concludes with insights on the due diligence process in M&A and the importance of finding the right fit for advisors looking to transition their practices. Valuations in a Changing Market With Scott DiGiammarino Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Scott DiGiammarino:Website | LinkedIn - Get your practice valuation here

Aug 11, 2025 • 29min
Preparing For Fall Surge: A Guide for Financial Advisors [Episode 321]
In this episode, Matt and Micah discuss the concept of 'Surge' in financial advising, emphasizing the importance of delivering massive value to clients. They explore the logistics of scheduling client meetings, the benefits of focused interactions, and the necessity of having systems and checklists in place to enhance efficiency. The conversation highlights the significance of preparation and continuous refinement of processes to ensure a successful surge cycle, ultimately leading to better client relationships and business outcomes. Preparing For Fall Surge: A Guide for Financial Advisors [Episode 321] Resources in today's episode: - Micah Shilanski: Website | LinkedIn - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn

Aug 8, 2025 • 26min
Encore Episode: How Surge Works For New Relationships And Clients.
If you’re new to surge or you have a client who has not yet experienced surge, how do you manage expectations? Telling a prospect that they can’t see you for 6 months could cause mutiny, so it’s important to clearly communicate your framework and what they can expect. Matthew and Micah dive into this dilemma today and share insight into how you can plan, prepare, and ultimately deliver incredible value to clients in a new-to-surge situation. Listen in to get step-by-step information on how to start setting the right expectations from the very beginning. Rather than running off prospects with long wait times and frustration, you’ll learn how you can set them up for success while still making time for your own life and family along the way. Encore Episode: How Surge Works For New Relationships And Clients. Resources in today's episode: - Micah Shilanski: Website | LinkedIn - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn

Aug 4, 2025 • 35min
The Power of Relationships in Wealth Management with Scott Danner [Episode 320]
In this episode of the TPR podcast, Matthew Jarvis interviews Scott Danner, a seasoned financial advisor and author of 'Freedom Street.' They discuss Scott's journey in the financial advisory industry, emphasizing the importance of building relationships over transactions. Scott shares his life model, which focuses on love, impact, faith, and energy, and how it guides his professional and personal life. The conversation also explores the intersection of wealth and impact, highlighting the misconception that one must choose between financial success and making a difference. Finally, they address the importance of evaluating growth strategies, whether organic or through strategic partnerships, and the need for advisors to seek mentorship and challenge their thinking. The Power of Relationships in Wealth Management with Scott Danner [Episode 320] Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Scott Danner: Website | LinkedIn

Aug 1, 2025 • 32min
Encore Episode: The Right Size Financial Plan
When it comes to the length of a financial plan and what documents you should use within that plan, there are a lot of varying opinions. Today Matt and Micah will be discussing these opinions and sharing how they ensure their financial plans for their clients are efficient and easy to understand. Listen in as the guys explain the importance of having obvious advice in your financial plan so that your clients are not left wondering about their next steps or options. You will learn how to effectively communicate with your clients so you can identify their values and why it’s crucial to ensure they are a part of the process. https://zurl.co/JNnXO