The Diamond Podcast for Financial Advisors

Dive into innovative strategies that leading financial advisors use to turbocharge their growth. Discover creative team structures that promote efficiency and unique marketing ideas tailored to today's digital landscape. Explore the advantages of hiring experienced advisors without a book of business and learn how strategic partnerships with CPAs can enhance referrals. From succession planning to navigating recruitment challenges, this collection of top tactics is sure to inspire fresh ideas for any advisory firm.

Doug Fritz, Co-founder and Executive Chairman of F2 Strategy, shares his wealth of experience as a former CTO in top financial firms. He dives into how technology, particularly AI, can revolutionize client engagement and operational workflows in advisory businesses. Doug discusses the journey from his early career in Moscow to leading innovations in wealth management. He emphasizes the importance of strategic tech choices and offers insights on how firms can future-proof themselves while addressing the challenges of adopting new technologies.

Ted Jenkin, Co-Founder of JPTD Partners and an M&A expert, shares insights on maximizing value for financial advisors. He discusses key valuation metrics, common pitfalls in the M&A process, and the importance of strategic planning for business sales. Ted emphasizes the role of organic growth in increasing firm value and the impact of private equity valuations. He also touches on how AI is changing the advisory landscape, urging advisors to focus on networking and client service while reevaluating their career paths.

Brett Oley and Ryan Kinser, co-founders of Oley Kinser Concierge Wealth, share a riveting tale of their leap from UBS to independence, skyrocketing their business from $125 million to $700 million in assets. They discuss the power of partnership and client-first service, along with the challenges and rewarding experiences of transitioning to independent practice. Their unique insights on strategic planning, successful acquisitions, and innovative marketing strategies highlight how a clear vision and strong relationships fuel continued growth.

Louis Diamond, a seasoned expert in the financial advisory landscape, offers invaluable insights for advisors feeling the pressure of corporate shifts. He discusses the often-overlooked power dynamics between advisors and their firms, especially during periods of change. Proactive strategies for retaining autonomy and adapting to unexpected compensation adjustments are highlighted. Louis emphasizes the importance of having a 'Plan B' and self-evaluation to navigate vulnerabilities, helping advisors rethink control in an evolving industry.

John Thiel, Founder and Executive Chairperson of Indivisible Partners, brings nearly three decades of wealth management experience from Merrill Lynch. He discusses the evolving role of financial advisors and the necessity of innovative fintech solutions. John highlights his firm's independent model, allowing advisors to own their businesses while enhancing client satisfaction. He also addresses the importance of thoughtful transitions in retirement programs and the growing trend of advisors moving toward independence. The future of financial advising looks bright with collaboration and integrity driving change.

Join Dave Mullen, a seasoned financial advisor coach and author of three bestselling books, as he shares transformative strategies for achieving multi-million-dollar success. He discusses his journey from Merrill Lynch to founding Altius Learning, emphasizing tailored training programs and the importance of empathy in client relationships. Dave dives into building effective advisory teams, adapting to industry changes, and the paths available for financial advisors, whether in employment or independence, with insights on maintaining trust and utilizing technology for growth.

Join Trent Leyda, Managing Director and Chief Investment Officer at SpirePoint, and Kay Campione, a former CIA officer turned Executive Director at SpirePoint, as they share their intriguing journey from wirehouse firms to building a legacy-focused family wealth office. They discuss the challenges of traditional wealth management, their commitment to client-centric service, and the importance of independence. Kay highlights her unique transition from intelligence to finance, while Trent emphasizes the value of teamwork in fostering strong client relationships.

In this engaging discussion, Jason Diamond, Partner at Diamond Consultants, delves into the vibrant landscape of mergers and acquisitions in the wealth management sector. He shares valuable insights on how financial advisors can maximize their enterprise value when considering independence. Topics include the balance between remaining in established firms versus branching out, the influence of private equity on RIAs, and the critical factors that enhance business appeal to potential buyers. A must-listen for advisors contemplating their future!

With Shaun Hauser – Founder & CEO, Wellington-Altus Private Wealth Inc. Overview Shaun Hauser offers a unique perspective on how our northern neighbors perceive the wealth management industry, drawing comparisons to practices and firms in the US, and providing insights into creating an independent firm that has achieved extraordinary growth. Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. About this episode… This marks a first for our podcast series. Our content focus has traditionally been on the wealth management industry in the US. However, in this episode, we’re heading across our northern border to gain a first-hand view of building a wealth management business in Canada. For perspective, Statista reported that in 2024, assets under management by Canada’s wealth management firms exceeded a staggering 1.95 trillion US dollars. That’s nearly equal to the country’s annual GDP of 2.1 trillion US dollars. To learn more about the industry, the similarities to the US, and the differences, we asked the Founder and CEO of one of the most successful independent Canadian firms, $35B+ Wellington-Altus Private Wealth, to join us. Shaun Hauser built a career as an investment advisor in Winnipeg before founding Wellington-Altus in 2017. With a knack for focusing on the long term, he was ultimately motivated to launch the independent firm and later take on a private equity partner. In this episode with Louis Diamond, Shaun does a deep dive into his firm and the Canadian wealth management space, including: The Canadian financial advisory industry—and how it compares to the US, including the opportunities and challenges. Being at the epicenter of the nascent Canadian breakaway movement—and how Wellington-Altus became the hottest firm in Canada in less than 10 years. Building an independent firm—and the decision to take on a private equity partner. Differentiating in the Canadian market—and what Wellington-Altus does to stand apart. The value of scaling an idea—and how Canadians learn from US trends. It’s a conversation that offers a fresh perspective on how our northern neighbors view the wealth management industry, with valuable takeaways for advisors and business owners alike. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources The 2025 Annual Report on Transitions and Deals for Financial Advisors – 2024 Activity Data Data-driven insights and analysis on advisor transitions, deals, and the evolving wealth management industry landscape. Top Tips for Setting Your Business Up for Success Years Before a Move: An Industry Update A breakdown of the steps advisors can take to prepare for change and enhance business processes, equally effective for those at the curiosity stage or even deep into due diligence, and whether you ultimately make a move or not. Finding the Shortest Path to Excellence Can Be a Game Changer for Advisors Doing everything you can to deliver better service, drive growth, and achieve your goals faster can result in extraordinary benefits. Shaun Hauser Founder & CEO, Wellington-Altus Financial Inc. Senior Wealth Advisor, Wellington-Altus Private Wealth Inc. A successful Investment Advisor in Winnipeg, Shaun has worked in the field since 1998. He has extensive experience in the management and organization of departments and companies in the wealth management industry. Shaun also worked for Wellington West, where he managed operations and sales for the asset management subsidiary. Recently, Shaun served on the executive committee of NBF Wealth Management, where he was VP of Advisor Strategy and Support. Also available on your favorite podcast app and other media sites