

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

Jul 7, 2025 • 27min
Navigating Client Mistakes: A Guide for Advisors [Episodes 316]
In this episode, Matt and Micah discuss the inevitability of mistakes in client management and the importance of addressing them effectively. They emphasize the need for setting expectations with clients, taking ownership of errors, and having a structured process for handling mistakes. The conversation covers both major and minor issues, highlighting the significance of communication, accountability, and continuous improvement in client relationships. Navigating Client Mistakes: A Guide for Advisors [Episodes 316] Resources in today's episode: - Micah Shilanski: Website | LinkedIn - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn

Jul 4, 2025 • 27min
Encore Episode: Accelerating Your Growth and Understanding Practice Valuations with Guest Ted Jenkin
In this encore episode, Matthew Jarvis sits down with industry veteran Ted Jenkin to demystify practice valuations for financial advisors. Ted shares the common misconceptions and the stark difference between a valuation and the actual market price a business can command. Ted also discusses his wisdom on the critical factors that shape practice valuations, including the oft-overlooked elements of culture, money management prowess, and brand equity. He also sheds light on the pivotal role of cash flow velocity and stock growth trajectories, elements that can make or break a potential sale. Whether you’re a financial advisor contemplating an exit strategy or simply seeking to futureproof your practice for sustainable growth, this episode is an absolute must-listen. Encore Episode: Accelerating Your Growth and Understanding Practice Valuations with Guest Ted Jenkin Resources in today's episode: – Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn – Ted Jenkin: LinkedIn | Website

Jun 30, 2025 • 31min
From Business to Freedom With Jerome Myers [Episode 315]
In this episode of the Perfect RIA Podcast, Matthew Jarvis and Jerome Myers delve into the complexities of business exits, exploring the psychological aspects of attachment styles and their impact on financial advisors. They discuss the inevitability of exiting a business, whether through selling, giving away, or closing it, and emphasize the importance of having a post-exit plan. Jerome introduces his concept of the 'Five Scars of Success,' which highlights the emotional and psychological challenges faced by entrepreneurs. The conversation underscores the need for advisors to understand their attachment styles and how these influence their business decisions and client relationships. From Business to Freedom With Jerome Myers [Episode 315] Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Jerome Myers Website | LinkedIn

Jun 27, 2025 • 20min
Encore episode - Why Don’t I Have More Prospects?!?
Is the prospect stream pretty low? Or, even, completely dried up? This episode is all about the common mistakes made in marketing, creating content, delivering value, and more that really affect your prospect numbers. Matthew and Micah share specifically how they ‘put in reps’ and how that, along with not playing office and other important aspects, has allowed them to develop a solid flow of prospects. Listen in to hear about how important it is to be diligent with your time and ensure you’re using it to build and not stagnate. Matthew and Micah give examples of pitfalls that trip us up when trying to make content or improve our outreach and discuss how important it is to play the long game, measure your input first, notice small things that make a big difference, and more. Encore episode - Why Don’t I Have More Prospects?!? Resources in today's episode: - Micah Shilanski: Website | LinkedIn - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn

Jun 23, 2025 • 30min
Unlocking Value in M&A Transactions With Steven Jarvis [Episode 314]
In this episode of the Perfect RA Podcast, host Matt Jarvis speaks with his brother, Steven Jarvis, CPA, about the intricacies of auditing in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) deals. They discuss the importance of accurate financial reporting, the nuances of EBITDA, and the potential red flags that can arise during the due diligence process. Steven emphasizes the need for financial advisors to maintain clean books and be transparent about their financials, as this can significantly impact the valuation of their practice during a sale. The conversation also touches on the buyer's perspective, the consequences of misleading information, and best practices for running a business effectively. Unlocking Value in M&A Transactions With Steven Jarvis [Episode 314] Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Steven Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - THE SUMMIT

Jun 20, 2025 • 31min
Encore Episode: You Said What In A Client Meeting?!
One of our core tenets and values at TPR is reality, not theory. Matthew and Micah discuss how we get from a theoretical environment to a real environment especially when it comes to meetings with clients where we aim to deliver massive value. You will hear about the importance of the words you use in meetings as well as what you should be doing to avoid miscommunication with clients. Matthew and Micah also share tips on how to set expectations in ways that are clear and making way for success. They share detailed examples and insight into how to smooth out discussions and give clients confidence in their retirement. Encore Episode: You Said What In A Client Meeting?! Resources in today's episode: - Micah Shilanski: Website | LinkedIn - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn

Jun 16, 2025 • 27min
Not Everyone Needs a Niche [Episode 313]
In this episode, Micah and Jarvis discuss the concept of niching in the financial advisory space, exploring its importance, the distinction between advertising and marketing, and the journey of finding and developing a niche. They emphasize the need for advisors to understand their clients deeply, build trust, and take actionable steps towards establishing their niche. The conversation highlights the long-term commitment required for successful niching and the importance of integrity in client relationships. Not Everyone Needs a Niche [Episode 313] Resources in today's episode: - Micah Shilanski: Website | LinkedIn - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn

Jun 13, 2025 • 24min
Encore episode - Client Segmentation
Client segmentation can be a double-edged sword in financial advising. The speakers discuss the pitfalls of not defining your niche, which can lead to ineffective practices. They emphasize the importance of effective communication and setting realistic expectations with clients. Listeners learn how to manage client relationships without becoming overwhelmed and how to intentionally align their services with their values. The discussion also includes strategies for respectfully retiring clients and the need to find alternatives to traditional segmentation methods.

Jun 12, 2025 • 30min
Navigating the New Era of Financial Advisory With Peter Velardi
In this episode of the TPR Podcast, Matthew Jarvis and Peter Velardi discuss the evolving landscape of financial advisory practices, particularly the impact of private equity on the industry. They explore the shift from traditional independent practices to a more consolidated model, emphasizing the importance of understanding the true value of financial practices and the necessity of risk management. The conversation highlights the current market dynamics, the need for advisors to adapt to changing conditions, and the importance of seeking professional guidance in navigating these complexities. Navigating the New Era of Financial Advisory With Peter Velardi Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn- Peter Velardi: Website | LinkedIn - Get your practice valuation here

Jun 9, 2025 • 30min
Work-Life Balance with Guest Dustin Frost [Episode 312]
In this episode, Matt interviews Dustin Frost, co-founder of Attentus and creator of the Ride Loud app. They discuss Dustin's journey from a young entrepreneur to running a successful tech company, his productivity strategies, and how he balances work and life. Dustin shares insights on building a strong team, accountability, and the importance of being present with family and friends. The conversation emphasizes the significance of discipline, passion, and effective client relationships in achieving success. Work-Life Balance with Guest Dustin Frost [Episode 312] Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Dustin Frost: Website | LinkedIn