

Only Fee-Only
Broc Buckles and Peter Ciravolo
This podcast interviews fee-only financial planners to learn about how they are helping their clients and serving their specific niches.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 29, 2025 • 22min
#116 - Revolutionizing Financial Planning for Ukrainians: Lyubomyr Ostapiv's Impact and Insights
Curious about how financial planning is evolving for Ukrainians worldwide? Lyubomyr Ostapiv, founder of Wealth Gardens and co-founder of iPlan.ua, has been a key figure in bringing fee-only financial planning to Ukrainians. Inspired by American financial experts like Michael Kitces, he shares how the opening of the U.S. stock market to Ukrainian investors in 2017 created new opportunities and reflects on his own move to the U.S.Lyubomyr also discusses the differences between financial markets in the U.S. and Ukraine and how content marketing and education have helped him build a trusted advisory firm. His YouTube channel, Immigrants Financial Freedom, provides financial guidance for first-generation immigrants in both English and Ukrainian. This conversation explores the future of financial planning and the potential for international diversification.Connect with Lyubomyr on LinkedIn, and follow along with his journey!Social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyubomyr/x: @lostapivYoutube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnaOpmbSYjQMiROFZ6Fdvdg

Jan 22, 2025 • 23min
#115 - Tax Made Simple: Vivify’s Mission to Empower Advisors and Clients
What if you could transform the tax service industry? In this episode, Logan Holman and Claire Gallant, co-founders of Vivify, share their journey from a chance meeting in Cincinnati to building a company that simplifies taxes for everyday taxpayers. Combining Logan's CPA expertise with Claire's wealth advisory background, they identified a gap for W-2 employees and 1099 contractors facing tax challenges.Vivify specializes in working with the fee-only financial planning community and their clients, offering flat-fee, client-centered services like personalized tax scorecards, withholding assistance, and secure portals with video walkthroughs. By collaborating closely with wealth advisors and addressing the limitations of traditional tax software, Vivify is making tax season more efficient and effective for everyone involved. Tune in to learn how they’re reshaping personal finance and empowering taxpayers nationwide.Social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/loganholman/https://www.linkedin.com/in/clairegallant/https://www.usevivify.com/Music in this episode was obtained from Bensound.

Jan 9, 2025 • 29min
#114 - James Conole on Building a Team, a Brand, and a Massive Audience
Root Financial, led by James Conole, explores how to effectively scale a financial advisory firm while prioritizing culture and client experience. Key topics include the Sequoia System, marketing strategies, and the establishment of Root University to train advisors, alongside insights on creating a vibrant workplace. • Introduction of James and Root Financial • Explanation of the Sequoia System and its significance • Overview of marketing strategies, particularly YouTube and podcasts • Streamlining the sales process for better client onboarding • Importance of internal training through Root University • Focus on creating a fun and engaging work culture • Discussion on long-term business strategies versus short-term profits • Vision for the future of Root Financial and its impact on the industryJames Social and Webiste:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesconole/https://www.rootfinancial.com/Music in this episode was obtained from Bensound.

Dec 19, 2024 • 24min
#113 - Matt Pruitt on Balancing Growth with Personal Fulfillment
Matt Pruitt, founder of Exhale Wealth Management, is back for his second appearance on the podcast, and his journey continues to impress. After leaving institutional investment management, Matt built a firm that’s thriving by serving tech workers with equity compensation. His business has seen remarkable growth in a short time, a testament to the power of a clear niche and strategic focus.In this episode, Matt dives into what’s driving his success—focusing on the right clients, leveraging a strong referral network, and outsourcing to stay efficient. He also shares the value he’s found in collaborating with peers and learning from groups like the XY Planning Network.Beyond the numbers, Matt talks about how he manages his time effectively to prevent burnout and balance running a growing business with family life. His approach is practical and grounded, offering insights that advisors at any stage can learn from.Tune in to hear Matt’s story and gain valuable takeaways for building your own practice.Matt's Social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-pruitt-cfp%C2%AE-cfa-02aab548/Music in this episode was obtained from Bensound.

Dec 12, 2024 • 28min
#112 - Optimize Your Practice with Tips from Libby Greiwe
What if you could turn your financial advising practice into a seven-figure business while working just three days a week? In our latest episode, Libby Greiwe, host of the Efficient Advisor podcast, shares how she built a thriving practice by focusing on underserved clients and creating systems that align with her values and lifestyle.We dive into her “systems to scale” framework—a proven method to refine your niche, attract ideal clients, and streamline operations. Whether you’re looking for quick wins or a full business overhaul, Libby offers actionable strategies to help you build a balanced, successful practice.Connect with Libby on LinkedIn or visit theefficientadvisor.com for more insights. Social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/libby-greiwe?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Dec 4, 2024 • 32min
#111 - From Jargon to Clarity in Financial Marketing with Sara Grillo
Simplify your financial advisory business with insights from Sara Grillo. Known for her no-nonsense approach, Sara shares how clear communication and transparency can set you apart as a fee-only advisor. Learn practical tips for cutting through jargon, creating SEO-friendly content, and building stronger client connections.Discover how to use LinkedIn effectively without resorting to the hard sell. Sara breaks down straightforward steps to connect with potential clients, from filtering connections to crafting genuine outreach messages. It’s all about focusing on service, not sales, to build lasting relationships.We also explore how educational content is reshaping the financial services industry. Sara offers advice on overcoming self-doubt, committing to continuous learning, and navigating client interactions with confidence. Whether you’re exploring new opportunities or looking to improve your practice, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you succeed.Sara’s social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgrillo?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_appX: @grilloinvest

Nov 27, 2024 • 37min
#110 - Marketing Like a Pro: James Pollard’s Playbook for Financial Advisors
Learn the keys to financial advisor marketing with James Pollard, founder of The Advisor Coach and host of the Financial Advisor Marketing Podcast. In this episode, James shares how he built a business focused on helping financial advisors succeed, offering insights into practical strategies that work.James dives into the continued power of traditional marketing methods, like direct mail, and how they can complement modern approaches to grow your business. He explains how building credibility through strategic efforts can help advisors stand out, attract more clients, and establish trust in their niche.We also cover email marketing tailored for financial advisors, including tips for crafting warm emails, lead magnets, and automated sequences that engage without overwhelming. Whether you're just starting or refining your marketing strategy, James offers actionable advice you can implement right away.Social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/theadvisorcoach/X: @theadvisorcoachWebsite: https://www.theadvisorcoach.com/Music in this episode was obtained from Bensound.

Nov 20, 2024 • 30min
#109 - The CFP with 1M+ Followers: Nick Meyer's Blueprint for Short-Form Video Success
Nick Meyer, the most-followed CFP on TikTok, shares his journey from financial advisor to content creator, amassing over 1 million followers. He discusses the power of short-form video in growing a financial advisory business and highlights the importance of authenticity. Nick offers tips on engaging video creation, emphasizing audio quality and consistent posting. He breaks down the effectiveness of skit-style versus talking-head formats and explains how to connect with audiences through unique, relatable content.

Nov 13, 2024 • 34min
#108 - Life Planning, Authenticity, and Creativity with Justin Castelli
Ever wonder how to align financial goals with core values? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Justin Castelli, a creative entrepreneur and financial advisor. As the founder of RLS Wealth and a leader in Advisors Growing as a Community, Justin shares his journey from traditional advising to life planning, emphasizing authenticity in both his personal and professional life.Learn how the Kinder Method and the Evoke process transformed Justin’s approach to financial planning, helping clients align their money with their values. He shares how creative outlets like spoken word and music have pushed him out of his comfort zone, leading to personal growth and self-discovery.Justin also discusses staying authentic in environments that often demand conformity, balancing life’s spiritual, mental, and physical aspects, and using signs and omens to guide decisions. Don’t miss his thoughtful insights on integrating creativity, individuality, and purpose into financial planning.Justin's Social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/justincastelli/X: @jus10castellihttps://www.justincastelli.io/Music in this episode was obtained from Bensound

Nov 6, 2024 • 24min
#107 - Scaling Rapidly and Mastering Content Creation with Thomas Kopelman
Curious about building a thriving RIA in just three years? Thomas Kopelman, co-founder of All Street Wealth, shares how he did it by focusing on content creation and tailoring services for high-income millennials and professionals with equity compensation. In this episode, Thomas walks us through his unique tax planning approach—adding value that goes beyond standard advice.We also dive into the balance of scaling a firm while keeping a boutique feel, from hiring specialized planners to keeping communication crystal clear. Thomas reveals the power of authentic client relationships and content as a growth engine. Tune in for practical tips on scaling your advisory business and strengthening client connections!👉 Want more from Thomas? Check out his social media course to level up your online presence and reach the clients you want!https://www.allstreetacademy.com/advisorSocial:x: @TKopelmanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomaskopelman/