One-Line SummaryFrom SEC enforcement to founding FiSolve, Steven Yadegari shares how mediation, authenticity, and relationships turn regulatory challenges into business advantages. Full Episode Summary / Show NotesSteven Yadegari spent decades at the intersection of regulation, law, and finance—starting with senior roles at the SEC, transitioning to prestigious law firms, and serving 16 years as COO, General Counsel, and CCO at a leading money management firm. Now, as Founder and CEO of FiSolve (an outsourced provider of COO, legal, and compliance services), he's leveling the playing field for smaller asset managers facing skyrocketing regulatory costs. In this candid conversation, Steve pulls back the curtain on: The mediation skills from Cardozo Law that shaped his leadership style (active listening, creative problem-solving, and authenticity)A hilarious (and cringeworthy) early lesson from a mentor on zealous advocacy: "Make them feel like we just kicked them in the balls"Why he took the entrepreneurial leap in his 50s during COVID—and how past relationships are now fueling FiSolve's growthInsider views on SEC exams: How to turn them into positive experiences (hint: be open, prepared, and honest)The biggest challenges for small advisors (cost burdens) and why innovation thrives in boutiquesShifts in SEC regulation—from "regulation by enforcement" under Gensler to a welcome return to principles-based fiduciary standardsUnderrated skills in finance: Letting go of emotional attachments to investmentsMediation war stories, defusing tense negotiations, and even a surprise rugby pastA masterclass in blending precision with innovation, building trust with regulators, and leading with authenticity in a high-stakes industry. Connect with Steve: Website: fisolve.com Email: info@fisolve.com Chapters00:00 – Welcome & Intro to Steven Yadegari (FiSolve Founder/CEO) 01:05 – From pre-med dreams to discovering law and problem-solving 02:13 – How mediation training shaped his leadership: Authenticity, active listening & creative solutions 03:58 – Cringe-worthy early career story: "Kick them in the balls" advocacy lesson 06:02 – The "now or never" moment that led to founding FiSolve in 2021 07:50 – Entrepreneurial journey: Hard work, validation, and the power of long-term relationships 09:47 – What firms misunderstand about SEC thinking (and how to make exams constructive) 13:35 – One key separator: Pay attention to SEC priorities (it's their playbook!) 15:10 – Unique challenges for small advisors & why FiSolve is "leveling the playing field" 17:30 – Misunderstood regs + the shift back to principles-based fiduciary standards 22:04 – Funniest mediation disputes (neighbors, ex-employees, and community drama) 25:04 – Secret mediation move: Caucusing to defuse tension 26:32 – Most underrated skill in finance: Detaching emotionally from investments 28:11 – Balancing lawyer precision with CEO innovation 30:00 – Evolution of "success": From skill-building at the SEC to long-term planning 32:34 – Quickfire: Book rec (Hamilton biography), respect earners, Netflix title, surprise fact (college rugby) 34:31 – What "Getting Real" means in compliance & financial services 35:57 – How to connect with Steve & FiSolve 36:24 – Outro Keywords / TagsSteven Yadegari, FiSolve, SEC regulation, investment management compliance, outsourced CCO, financial services compliance, asset management, fiduciary duty, mediation in business, SEC exams, small advisors challenges, principles-based regulation
