Grow Organically

Catchlight

Welcome to Grow Organically, the podcast presented by Catchlight(SM) where we host candid discussions with wealth management and financial pros. Each episode, we break down factors that affect growth at wealth management firms and how organizations can continue to be forward-thinkers in today’s competitive landscape. Join us as we chat with industry leaders and uncover actionable insights and success stories to help you achieve your growth goals. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Catchlight does not endorse any investment adviser or provide advice or recommendations to any prospective or existing client of an investment adviser as to the selection or retention of that investment adviser. To learn more, visit: catchlight.ai.com Catchlight Insights LLC. © 2024 Catchlight Insights LLC. All rights reserved.

  1. 2D AGO

    REPLAY: Maximizing Your Organic Growth Funnel with Michelle Winkles, MBA

    Sustainable growth does not come from chasing every tactic available. It comes from clarity, consistency, and systems that respect how people actually make decisions. In this replay episode, Dan Gilmartin sits down with Michelle Winkles, MBA, Partner and CMO at Mission Wealth, to revisit a foundational conversation on organic growth through digital marketing. This replay episode explores how firms can structure their websites, tech stacks, and workflows to attract higher-quality leads. Michelle explains how niche identification, data-driven personalization, and thoughtful follow-up create stronger relationships and more efficient funnels, while sharing how Mission measures performance and prioritizes long-term growth. Key takeaways: Building a website that clearly communicates who you serve and guides multiple audiences toward the right next step Using organic search and local SEO as a consistent source of higher-intent prospects Organizing client data to identify clusters that can evolve into focused microniches Creating automated yet personalized workflows that respect lead preferences and timing Measuring organic growth by revenue generated relative to total digital marketing spend And more! Connect with Dan Gilmartin:  Catchlight LinkedIn: Daniel Gilmartin Connect with Michelle Winkles: Mission Wealth LinkedIn: Michelle Winkles About our Guest:  Michelle Winkles is an energetic, innovative, and results-focused marketing professional with over 20 years of distinguished business leadership experience. As a Partner and Chief Marketing Officer at Mission Wealth, Michelle spearheads the firm’s strategic marketing initiatives, guiding overall vision, leadership, and the execution of marketing and business development programs. A key part of her role is driving the firm’s digital growth strategy, where she has successfully developed and implemented a robust digital marketing funnel and growth engine. This includes building a comprehensive marketing technology stack designed to automate processes, enhance lead generation, and convert prospects into clients. Through her efforts, Michelle has streamlined marketing operations, expanded the firm’s digital footprint, and increased business opportunities. She is responsible for creating end-to-end marketing strategies that integrate messaging, branding, digital presence, demand generation, content creation, research, and thought leadership. Michelle collaborates closely with department leaders across Mission Wealth to ensure marketing efforts align with the firm’s growth objectives in the B2B, B2C, and M&I sectors. Recognized for her contributions to the business community, Michelle was named one of the “Top 40 Under 40” business professionals by the Pacific Coast Business Times in 2018, highlighting her role in reshaping leadership and the economy in the Tri-Counties. Michelle earned her bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) in 2005. Driven by a passion for continuous learning, she obtained a Marketing Professional Certification from UCSB Extension in 2012 and completed her MBA with a Certificate of Excellence in Entrepreneurship, Strategic Management, and Nonprofit Social Business from Antioch University, Santa Barbara, in 2017.

    29 min
  2. JAN 28

    REPLAY – Rethinking Growth in Wealth Management: Markets, Demographics & ROI with Jimmy Zhao

    Organic growth sounds straightforward, but for many firms it remains one of the hardest challenges to solve. What happens when client demand slows, marketing feels risky, and internal teams struggle to connect the dots across services? In this replay episode, Dan Gilmartin revisits a timely conversation with Jimmy Zhao, Partner at McKinsey, to examine what truly drives organic growth in wealth management. They unpack why growth has slowed, how banks and RIAs miss opportunities hidden in their own data, and where new advisor relationships are emerging. The discussion also explores long-term investment thinking, referral strategies that convert, and why patience is critical when building sustainable growth engines. Key takeaways: Why organic growth has slowed, and what interest rates and liquidity cycles have to do with it Missed opportunities banks face when data, teams, and incentives remain siloed How workplace channels are becoming a meaningful source of new advisor relationships Why marketing programs often fail early despite strong long-term economics What effective referral programs do differently to improve conversion and client experience And more! Connect with Dan Gilmartin:  Catchlight LinkedIn: Daniel Gilmartin Connect with Jimmy Zhao:   McKinsey & Company  LinkedIn: Jimmy Zhao  About our Guest:  Jimmy Zhao is a Partner at McKinsey & Company. Jimmy leads McKinsey’s North American retirement division and works closely with wealth managers and other financial institutions in the retirement ecosystem to serve more clients and unlock new sources of growth. Jimmy collaborates with institutions across the US retirement landscape—including wealth managers, defined contribution recordkeepers, retirement plan advisors and consultants, technology platforms, and asset managers. Working in collaboration with the top executives at his client companies, Jimmy designs and executes transformational growth programs. He also leads McKinsey’s support for transactions and private capital investments in the sector. Over the past six years, Jimmy has supported over 50 deals across registered investment advisors (RIAs), independent broker-dealers, and WealthTech. Jimmy became a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) in 2012 and hosts educational events with the CFA Society in Boston.

    43 min
  3. 12/04/2025

    EP 24 – Yelena Melamed on Building Data-Driven Growth Engines in Wealth Management

    Partnerships, referrals, and metrics: three core themes shaping the future of organic growth in wealth management. In this episode of Grow Organically, host Dan Gilmartin sits down with Yelena Melamed, Chief Product Officer at Catchlight, to close out Season Two with a deep dive into how data, trust, and technology are transforming growth strategies. Yelena shares how wealth firms can strengthen partnerships across business lines, optimize referrals with automation, and leverage custom data models to make better, faster decisions. Key Takeaways: How Catchlight helps firms identify and strengthen cross-business partnerships between advisors, CPAs, and attorneys The importance of understanding each partner’s ideal client profile (ICP) to improve referrals and match quality How “speed to lead” and automation in custodial referral programs can increase meeting set rates and conversion efficiency Why foundational data quality can be key to powering AI, lead routing, and strategic decision-making How firms can build custom data models to optimize advisor-client fit, internal transitions, and long-term client retention And more! Resources: Ep 1 – Intro to Grow Organically Ep 15 – Driving Marketing Innovation Through Data and Tech with Jim Mocci Ep 17 – How Strategic Partnerships Drive Growth in Wealth Management with Marissa Fox-Foley Ep 21 – Building Growth Through Trust and Education with Sophie Benander Connect with Dan Gilmartin:  Catchlight LinkedIn: Daniel Gilmartin Connect with Yelena Melamed: LinkedIn: Yelena Melamed About our Guest:  Yelena Melamed is the Chief Product Officer at Catchlight, where she leads product strategy and innovation focused on helping financial advisors grow organically. She previously spent over 25 years at Fidelity Investments, where she led the design and delivery of data-driven technology solutions for financial services. At Catchlight, she combines her expertise in financial technology and product leadership to create tools that enhance advisor efficiency and client engagement.

    35 min
  4. 11/05/2025

    EP 23 – How this Forward-Thinking firm is using AI to Help Scale their Growth with Chris Thom

    Growth in wealth management often comes down to trust, process, and knowing where to focus. How do you build stronger referral partnerships with accountants and custodians? How can predictive analytics and technology enhance client relationships without losing authenticity? In this episode of Grow Organically, host Dan Gilmartin speaks with Chris Thom, CFP®, ChFC, CLU, CWS, Executive Vice President and Strategy and Partnerships Officer at Sequoia Financial Group, about how his firm drives growth through referrals, wallet share expansion, and technology-led client engagement.  Chris shares lessons on scaling trust, focusing on strengths, and leveraging innovation to deliver integrated client experiences. Key takeaways: How Sequoia deepened partnerships with accountants through co-location, events, and knowledge-sharing The firm’s disciplined process for maximizing referral conversions and building credibility Using predictive analytics to help expand wallet share while preserving advisor-client trust The role of AI and marketing insights in creating proactive, value-added client conversations Why firms should focus on core competencies and resist the “fear of missing out” on the latest trend And more! Connect with Dan Gilmartin:  Catchlight LinkedIn: Daniel Gilmartin Connect with Chris Thom:  Sequoia Financial Group LinkedIn: Chris Thom About our Guest:  Christopher B. Thom (Chris) serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy & Partnerships Officer for Sequoia, based in Akron, Ohio. With 25 years of experience in financial advisory and wealth planning, Chris is dedicated to advancing Sequoia’s commitment to comprehensive, client-centered service. A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER and Certified Wealth Strategist®, Chris uses his experience to strengthen partnerships with custodians and accounting firms, positioning Sequoia as a trusted partner for families navigating complex financial landscapes. Chris is passionate about Sequoia’s Growth Culture, which emphasizes trust, specialization, and enduring client relationships. Leading Sequoia’s marketing efforts, he champions the firm’s unique strengths, delivering on a vision where families receive seamless, customized solutions for wealth management, tax, estate, and financial planning. His goal is to make Sequoia a go-to destination for families seeking tailored, long-term financial planning and investment management services. A Texas Tech University graduate with a BBA in Marketing, Chris is deeply invested in supporting his alma mater’s athletics. Alongside his wife, Kim, and their three children, Chris resides in Sharon Township, Ohio, where he values the balance of family life and a thriving professional career.

    32 min
  5. 10/30/2025

    EP 22 – Rethinking Growth in Wealth Management: Markets, Demographics & ROI with Jimmy Zhao

    Organic growth has become the defining challenge and opportunity for firms in wealth management. Despite resilient demand, many firms struggle to scale sustainably in a market shaped by rising expectations and shifting client demographics.  In this episode, Dan Gilmartin speaks with Jimmy Zhao, CFA, Partner at McKinsey & Company, about what’s driving (and slowing) organic growth in the industry. They discuss market cycles, demographic shifts, marketing ROI, and the need for firms to treat growth as a long-term investment rather than a short-term metric.   Jimmy also breaks down how firms can position themselves for sustainable growth and stronger valuations through organic initiatives that truly empower advisors.   Key Takeaways:  Why 2024 marked one of the weakest years for organic growth and why 2026 could bring a rebound  How the wave of baby boomers reaching retirement age may be reshaping client demand  The growing opportunity for banks to integrate wealth and banking relationships  Why marketing ROI in wealth management is strong, yet underutilized  How scaling referral programs and growth culture can boost valuation and advisor engagement And more!  Connect with Dan Gilmartin:   Catchlight  LinkedIn: Daniel Gilmartin  Connect with Jimmy Zhao:   McKinsey & Company  LinkedIn: Jimmy Zhao  About our Guest:  Jimmy Zhao is a Partner at McKinsey & Company. Jimmy leads McKinsey’s North American retirement division and works closely with wealth managers and other financial institutions in the retirement ecosystem to serve more clients and unlock new sources of growth. Jimmy collaborates with institutions across the US retirement landscape—including wealth managers, defined contribution recordkeepers, retirement plan advisors and consultants, technology platforms, and asset managers. Working in collaboration with the top executives at his client companies, Jimmy designs and executes transformational growth programs. He also leads McKinsey’s support for transactions and private capital investments in the sector. Over the past six years, Jimmy has supported over 50 deals across registered investment advisors (RIAs), independent broker-dealers, and WealthTech. Jimmy became a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) in 2012 and hosts educational events with the CFA Society in Boston.

    42 min
  6. 09/30/2025

    EP 21 – Building Growth Through Trust and Education with Sophie Benander

    Growth does not come from pushing harder. It comes from creating trust, education, and genuine partnership. What happens when a firm shifts from chasing transactions to scaling relationships? How does language shape culture and outcomes in financial services? In this episode, Dan Gilmartin speaks with Sophie Benander, SVP of Growth and Partnerships at SageView, about reframing growth as an outcome of trust. She shares how education, alignment across business lines, and intentional partnerships deepen client relationships and create lasting value. Key points: How SageView grew from a retirement-focused firm into one that integrates wealth, financial wellness, and participant engagement while scaling trust rather than chasing scale Why education is at the center of every growth initiative, empowering people to make informed financial decisions with confidence How shifting from “cross-sell” to “cross-company partnerships” changed internal culture and strengthened client relationships The role of steering committees, retirement consultants, and wealth advisors in creating aligned, client-centered experiences How data integration, CRM triggers, and personalized outreach connect education to timely action and meaningful client journeys And more! Connect with Dan Gilmartin:  Catchlight LinkedIn: Daniel Gilmartin Connect with Sophie Benander:  LinkedIn: Sophie Benander Website: SageView About Our Guest:  Sophie is an experienced leader with deep expertise at the intersection of Wealth Management and Institutional Retirement Planning. As Senior Vice President of Growth & Partnerships at SageView, she leads the firm’s business development, growth marketing, and strategic partnership efforts, working to expand access to personalized financial guidance and enhance the financial well-being of plan participants. Passionate about financial empowerment, Sophie is committed to helping individuals and their families achieve long-term financial security, both within their retirement plans and beyond. She develops and oversees integrated marketing strategies, lead generation initiatives, and financial wellness campaigns that align SageView’s institutional services with participant needs. Prior to joining SageView, Sophie served as Assistant Director of Wealth Management at RWA Wealth Partners, where she led a team of advisors and coordinated strategic initiatives across the firm. With over 17 years of experience in the financial services industry, she has achieved notable success in mutual funds custody, 401(k) business line development, and strategic planning for wealth management services. Sophie’s academic qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Central Florida and a Master’s in Business Administration from Quinnipiac University. She holds the Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist℠ (CRPS®) designation. Her strategic vision and commitment to client success continue to drive meaningful outcomes across SageView’s national platform.

    26 min
  7. 09/17/2025

    EP 20 – Don’t Skip these Steps! How to Build a Scalable Marketing Machine with John Wernz

    Organic growth in wealth management requires more than just good marketing. It demands alignment, testing, and a process-driven funnel. In this episode, Dan Gilmartin interviews John Wernz, Partner and Strategic Advisor at Mission Wealth, who shares lessons from helping firms scale from billions to tens of billions in AUM. John breaks down the stages of marketing maturity, the importance of ICP, and why sales alignment is the critical piece many overlook. John discusses:  Building marketing teams from generalists to specialists and scaling from 4 to 50 people The three-step growth process: foundation, voice, and paid channels The importance of defining and targeting the ideal client profile (ICP) How to measure ROI on marketing campaigns and paid leads effectively Aligning sales and marketing to avoid wasted spend and maximize conversion And more! Connect with Dan Gilmartin:  Catchlight LinkedIn: Daniel Gilmartin Connect with John Wernz:  LinkedIn: John Wernz Website: Mission Wealth Website: Great Hill Partners About our Guest:  John Wernz is an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Great Hill Partners and serves as a strategic advisor to growing FinTech companies. He champions the power of scalable and measurable organic growth programs, believing they enable financial services firms to make a greater impact. For over a decade, John led organic growth at Wealth Enhancement Group, one of the nation’s top RIA firms, where he helped drive asset growth from under $2 billion to more than $50 billion. Today, he applies that deep expertise and practical insight to support financial services firms and early-stage FinTechs, helping them achieve faster, more sustainable growth than they thought possible.

    39 min
  8. 08/27/2025

    EP 19 – Human First, Funnel Second: Caleb Stinson on Redefining Lead Generation

    Speed matters, but connection matters more. In this episode of Grow Organically, Dan Gilmartin speaks with Caleb Stinson, Chief Marketing Officer of Exencial Wealth Advisors, about creating meaningful connections in the lead generation process. Caleb shares how pacing, personalization, and purpose-driven outreach strengthen both client relationships and firm outcomes. Caleb discusses: Why humanizing outreach conversations leads to stronger client relationships How to evaluate whether a lead has a meaningful need that the firm can address The importance of adapting outreach pacing and volume to team capacity Why a shorter “crawl-walk-run” runway accelerates firm growth How roleplaying calls with team members improve empathy and performance And more! Connect with Dan Gilmartin:  Catchlight LinkedIn: Daniel Gilmartin Connect with Caleb Stinson: Exencial Wealth Advisors LinkedIn: Caleb Stinson About our Guest:  Caleb Stinson is the Chief Marketing Officer at Exencial Wealth Advisors, where he leads marketing initiatives focused on lead generation and client engagement. With a background in operations and project management, Caleb brings a unique blend of strategic thinking and hands-on experience to the financial services space. His passion lies in building authentic relationships, humanizing outreach, and aligning marketing with a firm’s mission to serve clients with purpose.

    35 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Welcome to Grow Organically, the podcast presented by Catchlight(SM) where we host candid discussions with wealth management and financial pros. Each episode, we break down factors that affect growth at wealth management firms and how organizations can continue to be forward-thinkers in today’s competitive landscape. Join us as we chat with industry leaders and uncover actionable insights and success stories to help you achieve your growth goals. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Catchlight does not endorse any investment adviser or provide advice or recommendations to any prospective or existing client of an investment adviser as to the selection or retention of that investment adviser. To learn more, visit: catchlight.ai.com Catchlight Insights LLC. © 2024 Catchlight Insights LLC. All rights reserved.