

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 5, 2024 • 7min
Why Authenticity Matters and Family Financial Dynamics
In this recap episode, Amber first highlights the Matt and Kevin's Thompson's discussion on Monday. Matt and Kevin talked about the importance of providing massive value that goes beyond just investment returns. They stressed authenticity, being true to oneself, and promoting your unique value proposition instead of getting lost in the noise of generic marketing claims. For financial advisors to truly stand out, they can't discount the value they provide or compete solely on price. Instead, advisors must find their genuine selves, the direction they want their businesses to go, and confidently promote those differentiated services and experiences they offer clients. Amber then highlighted Jamie's episode on Thursday where she shared navigating income disparities in the household. Jamie shared insights on maintaining balance and how to feel valued when one significantly out-earns the other. Resources in today's episode: - Episode Website - The Transparency Edge: A Ponzi Victim's Manifesto for Value-Driven Financial Advice with Guest Kevin Thompson [Episode263] - When You Earn More Than Your Spouse - Navigating Income Disparity

Jul 4, 2024 • 38min
When You Earn More Than Your Spouse - Navigating Income Disparity
Jamie Shilanski takes a dive into the intricate dynamics of income disparity within households. With a keen eye on the challenges faced by financial advisors, she explores the delicate balance between financial management, decision-making, and individual autonomy. Jamie sheds light on the profound impact differing incomes can have on relationships, financial planning, and personal fulfillment. Through practical strategies, she equips financial advisors with invaluable tools to navigate these complex waters, empowering them to deliver unparalleled value to their clients. From addressing the emotional nuances of financial disparities to crafting tailored solutions that foster harmony and mutual understanding, this episode is a must-listen for financial advisors seeking to elevate their practice and provide exceptional service to households grappling with income inequalities. When You Earn More Than Your Spouse - Navigating Income Disparity

Jul 1, 2024 • 31min
The Transparency Edge: A Ponzi Victim's Manifesto for Value-Driven Financial Advice with Guest Kevin Thompson [Episode263]
Imagine having your faith in the financial system shaken to the core by a devious Ponzi scheme. For Kevin Thompson, this devastating reality wasn't just a wake-up call – it was a defining moment that reshaped his entire approach to serving clients as a financial advisor. In this episode, Matthew Jarvis sits down with Kevin to unpack the hard-won lessons from his traumatic experience. Kevin pulls back the curtain on the dangers that lurk in the shadowy corners of the industry and the red flags every investor must heed. Kevin's story is a testament to the power of radical transparency, education, and good old-fashioned authenticity in an industry rife with empty promises and misaligned incentives. Jarvis and Kevin dismantle the notion that advisors must compete on fees alone. Instead, they recommend carving out a unique niche, fostering deep client relationships, and commanding premium prices by providing personalized, life-changing advice. The Transparency Edge: A Ponzi Victim's Manifesto for Value-Driven Financial Advice with Guest Kevin Thompson [Episode263] Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Kevin Thompson: Website | LinkedIn

Jun 28, 2024 • 8min
Creating Peace of Mind Through Delegation and Work-Life Balance - Individual Responsibility
Lisa Zeeveld from BELAY discusses delegation and work-life balance on the podcast. She emphasizes how leveraging virtual assistants can create peace of mind for advisors, enabling them to focus on their core genius and pursue personal passions. Delegation allows advisors to safeguard their businesses and ensure meticulous financial management. She encourages advisors to invest in personal fulfillment and separate their job from their sources of happiness.

Jun 27, 2024 • 26min
Your Vocation Should Pay For Your Avocations
Jamie Shilanski challenges the conventional wisdom that our jobs should be the sole source of fulfillment and happiness. Instead, she advocates for a mindset shift: Treat your vocation as a means to fund your avocations, your true passions, and your adventures in life. Too often, young financial advisors fall into the trap of expecting their careers to provide all-encompassing purpose and joy. However, Shilanski emphasizes that genuine happiness is an individual choice and responsibility, not something employers can bestow. For financial advisors seeking sustainable growth, both personally and professionally, Jamie's insights are invaluable. She underscores the critical importance of recovery and rejuvenation, urging advisors to intentionally "refill their cups" through self-care practices and by setting healthy boundaries. By prioritizing personal fulfillment outside of work and proactively nurturing their own well-being, financial advisors can cultivate the resilience and passion necessary to thrive in their careers while living truly enriching lives. Your Vocation Should Pay For Your Avocations

Jun 24, 2024 • 33min
The Right Hire. Right Now: How BELAY Ensures You Get the Right Team Member with Guest Lisa Zeeveld [Episode 262]
Lisa Zeeveld from BELAY discusses the game-changing power of delegation for financial advisors, emphasizing how it frees up time and allows you to focus on your strengths. Delegation is not just about dumping tasks but about leveraging the expertise of virtual assistants for increased productivity and peace of mind. Clear communication and aligned expectations are key for a successful partnership with your assistant.

Jun 21, 2024 • 8min
Working with High Net Worth Clients and Effectiveness of Marketing Strategies For Your Practice
Amber takes you behind the scenes to recap the strategies for financial advisors to attract and retain high-net-worth clients, as well as mastering the art of marketing. First, Paul Saganey joined Matt to unveil the intricate "complexity curve" that separates elite advisors from the rest. Discover why building a team of experts is the ultimate key to exceeding the lofty expectations of affluent clients. Jamie unleashed a torrent of marketing tactics that will help your firm's visibility and authority. From mastering the art of website SEO to crafting captivating content that resonates with your target audience. Resources in today's episode: - Episode Website - Moving Up the Complexity Curve: Serving High-Net-Worth Clients with Guest Paul Saganey [Episode 261] - Marketing. What Works For Financial Advisors?

Jun 20, 2024 • 32min
Marketing. What Works For Financial Advisors?
Marketing expert Jamie shares tips on crafting a tailored marketing strategy for financial advisors. She discusses the importance of website optimization, SEO, social media, email campaigns, webinars, and podcasts. Jamie also highlights leveraging referrals, direct mail, and local marketing for growth.

Jun 17, 2024 • 28min
Moving Up the Complexity Curve: Serving High-Net-Worth Clients with Guest Paul Saganey [Episode 261]
Matthew Jarvis sits down with Paul Saganey, the visionary founder of Integrated Partners. They dive into the "Complexity Curve" – the unique challenges financial advisors face when serving high-net-worth clients with multifaceted financial portfolios. Saganey's profound insights shed light on the necessity for advisors to evolve and ascend the complexity curve, equipping themselves with a comprehensive arsenal of expertise. He emphasizes the critical role of having a clear vision and a team of collaborators who collectively possess a vast array of specialized knowledge. The conversation also highlights the paramount importance of continuous learning and insatiable curiosity—the cornerstones of staying ahead in the ever-evolving financial advisory industry. Sagany's expertise underscores the value of reaching out to subject matter experts across various disciplines, ensuring that financial advisors can provide a truly holistic and tailored approach to their affluent clientele. Moving Up the Complexity Curve: Serving High-Net-Worth Clients with Guest Paul Saganey [Episode 261] Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Paul Saganey: Website | LinkedIn- Optimizing the Financial Lives of Clients: Harness the Power of an Accounting Firm's Elite Wealth Management Practice - Making Smart Decisions - Article: It's Time To Prepare For When, Not If, AI Replaces Advisors

Jun 14, 2024 • 7min
Maximizing Valuations and Smart Business Planning
In this recap episode, Amber is sharing the highlights from this week. Monday, Ted Jenkin joined Matt to reveal that traditional valuation methods often underestimate the true worth of successful RIA practices. He emphasized the power of leveraging the open marketplace, where multiples can soar as high as 14 to 17 times cash flow for larger firms. The key, according to Jenkin, is understanding the velocity of money and evaluating strategies that will rapidly build net worth. On Thursday, Jamie stressed the importance of starting with a clear long-term vision and exit strategy when it comes to your business. She advocates for vision mapping over traditional business plans, coupled with a SWOT analysis that considers the owner's personal strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the right legal structure, maintaining proper documentation, and avoiding the commingling of assets is crucial to protecting liability and maximizing valuations. Perhaps most importantly, Jamie emphasized the need for a well-defined succession plan, not just for the business but also for the transition of client relationships. By building a sellable business from day one, with clean financials and verifiable records, financial advisors can position themselves for maximum growth and an optimal exit strategy. Resources in today's episode: - Episode Website - Accelerating Your Growth and Understanding Practice Valuations with Guest Ted Jenkin [Episode 260] - How Your LLC Fails


