

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 28, 2025 • 28min
The Philosophy of Financial Planning with Peter Tiboris [Episode 319]
In this episode Matthew Jarvis interviews Peter Tiboris, a successful financial advisor who has scaled his practice to over $3.2 billion in assets under management. They discuss Peter's journey from cold calling to professionalizing his management team, the importance of philosophy in financial planning, and how to build sustainable client relationships. Peter shares the significance of simplicity and transparency in investment approaches, and the ideal characteristics of advisors for growth. The conversation emphasizes the need for a strong organizational culture and the importance of focusing on client objectives rather than just returns. The Philosophy of Financial Planning with Peter Tiboris [Episode 319] Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Peter Tiboris Website| LinkedIn

Jul 25, 2025 • 35min
Encore Episode: Why Advisors Lose Clients
In this encore episode, Jamie Shilanski introduces the ‘rule of two,’ a valuable principle for financial advisors looking to enhance their client relationships. Jamie shares an intriguing anecdote about a fishing lodge, where strict management led to staff discontent. She cleverly ties this to the financial advisory world, illustrating how inflexibility can negatively impact client satisfaction. The episode goes beyond simple dos and don’ts. Jamie dives into the importance of meaningful communication and challenges advisors to go beyond surface-level interactions, emphasizing that genuine connection comes from addressing the heart of clients’ questions and worries. Encore Episode: Why Advisors Lose Clients

Jul 21, 2025 • 27min
How to Get More Clients This Summer [Episode 318]
In this episode, Micah and Jarvis discuss strategies for acquiring more clients, maintaining momentum in business, and the importance of tracking and systems in financial advising. They emphasize understanding the client journey, setting realistic expectations for growth, and the role of curiosity in learning from successful peers. The conversation culminates in actionable steps for listeners to implement in their practices. How to Get More Clients This Summer [Episode 318] Resources in today's episode: - Micah Shilanski: Website | LinkedIn - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn

Jul 18, 2025 • 26min
Encore Episode: What Are Prospects ACTUALLY Saying
In this encore episode Matt and Micah are discussing the significance of real-life experience and action in comprehending client interactions. Genuine knowledge happens when you roll up your sleeves and actively engage with prospects and clients rather than relying solely on prescribed strategies. They’re sharing that advisors need to strive for an open-minded, value-focused approach to client meetings and to prioritize curiosity and effective communication over technical prowess. Plus, they’re reminding us that financial advising is not all about numbers; it's about injecting energy and enthusiasm into every conversation. Encore Episode: What Are Prospects ACTUALLY Saying Resources in today's episode: - Micah Shilanski: Website | LinkedIn - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn

Jul 17, 2025 • 28min
The M&A Playbook for Financial Advisors with Ted Jenkin
In this episode, Matthew Jarvis and Ted Jenkin discuss the critical importance of business owner clients for financial advisors, particularly during transitions such as business sales. They explore strategies for advisors to retain assets under management (AUM) by positioning themselves as essential partners in the M&A process. The conversation covers the nuances of business valuation, effective marketing strategies, negotiation tactics, and the significance of cultural fit in client relationships. Ted shares valuable insights on how advisors can add value to their practices and navigate the complexities of business sales, emphasizing the need for expertise and strategic partnerships. The M&A Playbook for Financial Advisors with Ted Jenkin Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Ted Jenkin: LinkedIn | Website - Get your practice valuation here

21 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 26min
Prospecting That Works [Episode 317]
Financial advisors face unique challenges in prospecting and growing their practices. Proper preparation for seminars and meetings can significantly impact client engagement. The podcast underscores the necessity of mastering growth metrics and consistent marketing efforts. It stresses the importance of self-belief and personal experience in delivering value. Advisors are encouraged to embrace responsibility and accountability while practicing techniques like role-playing to ensure effective client interactions.

Jul 11, 2025 • 28min
Encore Episode: How Are You Accountable When You Make a Client Mistake?
In this encore episode, Jamie discusses the importance of surge in her financial advisory practice and how it helps them deliver deep-focus work. The conversation then shifts to the benefits of having a hybrid office, the value of hiring military wives and dependents, and the positive impact they have on their team. Jamie then shares the importance of accountability and radical candor in their office culture, especially when mistakes are made. She emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability for mistakes to maintain client trust and satisfaction. Encore Episode: How Are You Accountable When You Make a Client Mistake?

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