NAIFA's Advisor Today Podcast Series

NAIFA
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This is NAIFA's Advisor Today Podcast Series where we focus on how financial advisors work, live, and give to their local communities and our greater financial services industry.

  1. 3D AGO

    Navigating Economic Uncertainty and the Evolving Financial Services Industry With Jamie Hopkins

    Jamie Hopkins is the Executive Vice President and Chief Wealth Officer at WSFS Bank, where he leads the wealth management segment, providing private wealth and trust services to clients through both WSFS Bank and Bryn Mawr Trust. Under Jamie's leadership, WSFS and its associated entities have served clients for over a century, and he has contributed to the financial services industry as an author, educator, and by helping launch over 700 FinServ Foundation fellowships for students. In this episode… From inflation and interest rates to housing market stagnation and evolving tax policies, uncertainty seems to be the only constant. How can financial professionals stay grounded while guiding clients through such unpredictable terrain? According to Jamie Hopkins, a nationally recognized financial educator and thought leader, the key lies in maintaining a long-term perspective amid short-term noise. He emphasizes that inflation is not a one-year issue but a 30-year concern, urging advisors to focus on sustainable financial habits rather than chasing short-term fixes. Jamie highlights that while higher costs and stagnant incomes squeeze Americans, strategic estate planning, diversified wealth management, and proactive communication can help restore confidence. In this episode of Advisor Today, Chris Gandy sits down with Jamie Hopkins, Executive Vice President and Chief Wealth Officer at WSFS Bank, to discuss navigating economic uncertainty and the evolving financial services landscape. They explore inflation's long-term impact on client behavior, the state of real estate and interest rates, and how AI is reshaping advisory work. Jamie also shares how education, trust, and technology can prepare advisors for the future.

    46 min

  2. OCT 27

    Building Industry Relationships and Elevating Advocacy in Financial Services With Brian Steiner

    Brian Steiner is the Executive Director of Life Happens, where he is responsible for fostering partner relations and engagement at NAIFA. These organizations are committed to promoting financial literacy and supporting insurance and financial advisors. Under his leadership, Life Happens has successfully distributed over $4 million in scholarships and collaborates on the widely recognized research report, the Insurance Barometer. This partnership underscores its significant influence on both industry professionals and consumers alike. In this episode… The financial services industry thrives on relationships, collaboration, and trust. But what does it take to build partnerships that truly strengthen advocacy and elevate the profession as a whole? Beyond selling policies and managing portfolios, how can advisors and leaders work together to create meaningful, lasting change that benefits both clients and colleagues? According to Brian Steiner, a respected leader in financial services advocacy, the answer lies in deep collaboration and consistent engagement across the industry. He explains that forming strong partnerships with organizations like LIMRA, ACLI, and IRI has allowed for greater influence in policy, education, and consumer protection efforts. Brian highlights that these alliances not only enhance NAIFA's impact but also ensure that agents, advisors, and carriers are aligned in advancing the profession. In this episode of Advisor Today, Chris Gandy and John D. Richardson sit down with Brian Steiner, Executive Director of Life Happens, to discuss how building industry relationships fuels advocacy in financial services. They explore NAIFA's collaborations with leading associations, the evolving role of advisors in a changing marketplace, and how Life Happens continues to educate and inspire through storytelling.

    58 min

  3. OCT 20

    The Many Faces of Leadership and Building a Transformative Culture With John D. Richardson

    John D. Richardson is a Financial Planner at Capital Planning Group, where he specializes in retirement planning, investment advice, and risk management for clients seeking to align their financial decisions with their values. As a recognized leader in the financial services industry, John has served as president of both NAIFA-Nashville and NAIFA-Tennessee, received the NAIFA Young Advisors Team Leader of the Year award, and was named a NAIFA Presidential Citation recipient, in addition to being elected NAIFA National Trustee for 2025-2026. Beyond his professional achievements, John is active in politics, serving as State Executive Committeeman for Senate District 21 in Tennessee and as a delegate to the Republican National Convention. In this episode… Leadership takes many forms — from commanding figures who lead through authority to quiet mentors who inspire from behind the scenes. But what truly defines a great leader? Is it influence, humility, or the ability to elevate others beyond themselves? According to John D. Richardson, a purpose-driven leader and advocate for servant leadership, true leadership begins with service. He believes leadership is not about titles or control but about empowering others to succeed and replacing oneself by developing the next generation. He highlights that the most effective leaders balance strength with empathy, guiding teams through challenge and growth while fostering trust and collaboration. When leaders embrace service over ego, they create a culture that not only performs but transforms. In this episode of Advisor Today, Chris Gandy sits down with John D. Richardson, Financial Planner at Capital Planning Group, to discuss how servant leadership shapes lasting impact. They explore how to build transformative cultures, develop future leaders through followership, and navigate different leadership styles with integrity. John also shares insights on creating alignment through values and vision.

    43 min

  4. OCT 13

    Mentorship, Military Legacy, and Making a Difference With Susan Combs

    Susan Combs is the Founder of Pancakes for Roger, a nonprofit that honors veterans and amplifies their stories through a grassroots "pancakes" movement. She created it after her father, a Major General, asked for pancakes while on hospice, inspiring a campaign, book, and advocacy project. Susan also leads Combs & Company, an insurance brokerage she launched at age 26, specializing in niche and non-traditional risks. She is a best-selling author and frequent speaker on mentorship, legacy, and service. In this episode… Balancing ambition, service, and purpose isn't easy, especially in a world that often values hustle over heart. What does it take to build a meaningful career while honoring those who paved the way before us? According to Susan Combs, a 20-year insurance professional and veteran advocate, true leadership comes from mentorship, gratitude, and grit. She shares how her father's military legacy and final wish sparked a global movement that now uplifts veterans and their families. Through Pancakes for Roger, Susan highlights the power of small acts that lead to big change, the importance of giving back, and the ripple effect of mentorship on personal and professional growth. In this episode of Advisor Today, Zack Huels and Kathleen Owings sit down with Susan Combs, Founder of Pancakes for Roger, to discuss how mentorship and legacy fuel purpose-driven leadership. They explore the origins of her nonprofit honoring veterans, lessons from her father's military service, and the role of empathy in business success. Susan also shares insights on building a lasting impact through mentorship and community.

    1h 2m

  5. OCT 6

    Building Financial Security Through Mentorship and Education With Brandon Smith

    Brandon Smith is an Executive Vice President at Milestone Financial Solutions, a firm that offers financial planning, investment, retirement, and estate-planning services to help clients reach key life goals. In his role, he provides comprehensive short-term and long-term financial and business planning catered to the needs of each client. His professional designations include CLU, ChFC, LUTCF, and CPFA. Before joining Milestone, Brandon began his career with AXA Advisors and later became a Registered Representative with The Leaders Group. In this episode… The financial services industry is constantly evolving, and new advisors face steep challenges as they enter the profession. From gaining client trust to learning complex planning strategies, early career professionals must find ways to build credibility and confidence. So what makes the difference between struggling to get started and building a sustainable practice? According to Brandon Smith, a seasoned financial advisor and industry leader, the key is a strong foundation built through mentorship and education. He highlights how designations like LUTCF equip advisors with the skills to handle objections, develop meaningful client relationships, and avoid early missteps. Mentorship, he emphasizes, is "pretty much everything" in shaping a career; it helps new advisors learn from experience, accelerate their growth, and avoid costly mistakes. In this episode of the Advisor Today podcast, Chris Gandy and Kathleen Owings are joined by Brandon Smith, Executive Vice President at Milestone Financial Solutions, to discuss building financial security through mentorship and education. They explore why professional designations give advisors an edge, how mentorship accelerates success, and where the industry is headed with new generations of advisors. Brandon also shares how balancing technology and health plays a role in long-term career growth.

    54 min

  6. AUG 4

    Building a Purpose-Driven Financial Practice With Craig Wright

    Craig Wright is a financial advisor with Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) designations. He served as the NAIFA Missouri president and is a founding partner of a financial services firm with over 15 years of experience offering fee‑based financial and insurance planning to individuals, families, and small businesses. Craig holds a MBA from Southwest Baptist University. In this episode… Finding success in financial services takes more than numbers and strategy — it requires purpose. How do top advisors balance client needs, leadership responsibilities, and community impact to build a practice that truly matters? According to Craig Wright, a seasoned financial advisor and advocate for servant leadership, purpose-driven success comes from giving freely to others while maintaining focus on clients' financial well-being. He highlights that engaging in leadership roles and mentorship opportunities not only strengthens the profession but also sharpens skills like time management and delegation. By combining risk management, investment strategies, and a commitment to developing future leaders, he has created a practice that thrives on relationships and community impact. Craig emphasizes that approaching business with service first leads to lasting client trust and professional fulfillment. In this episode of the Advisor Today podcast, Chris Gandy and Zack Huels sit down with financial advisor Craig Wright to discuss building a purpose-driven financial practice. They explore how leadership and mentorship fuel professional growth, why balancing risk and investment strategies benefits clients, and how AI tools can increase efficiency without losing the human touch. Craig also shares his proudest client success story and advice for future leaders in the industry.

    58 min

  7. JUL 28

    Adapting to Change and Leading Through Decades of Financial Evolution With John Davidson

    John Davidson is a Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow and Financial Services Specialist serving a diverse client base, including municipalities, private schools, and public corporations. A long‑time leader in his profession, John is a certified Financial Security Advocate and has served in top roles within NAIFA, including National President in 2006-07. In this episode… Navigating a decades-long career in financial services demands adaptability, foresight, and a willingness to evolve with your clients and the world around you. From economic shifts to technological revolutions, how can financial professionals stay relevant without losing the human touch? According to John Davidson, a seasoned financial advisor, staying relevant starts with embracing change while remaining grounded in core client relationships. He highlights how technology — from AI to digital communication — can enhance rather than replace the advisor's personal connection. This balance of high-tech and high-touch is what enables long-term advisors to continue delivering value. John also emphasizes the importance of planning ahead, not just for clients, but for one's own business succession and legacy. In this episode of the Advisor Today podcast, Chris Gandy and Zack Huels sit down with John Davidson, LUTCF, FSS, to talk about adapting to change and leading through decades of financial evolution. They discuss how to transition a legacy practice, mentor the next generation, and integrate AI into modern advising. John also shares insights on long-term care, estate planning, and maintaining client trust over time.

    1h 8m

  8. JUL 21

    Expanding the Reach of Fraternal Benefit Societies Through Technology and Advocacy With Kate Shafer

    Kate Shafer is the Director of Member Engagement & Communications at the American Fraternal Alliance, a nonprofit that supports fraternal benefit societies across the US and Canada by offering advocacy, education, and financial services to over seven million members. In her role, she leads initiatives to enhance member engagement, communications, and programming across the Alliance's network. Kate plays a key part in organizing signature events like the Spring Symposium, which focuses on member engagement, digital transformation, and governance. In this episode… Fraternal benefit societies have quietly served millions for generations, blending life insurance with a mission to build stronger communities. But in an increasingly digital world, these purpose-driven organizations face a crucial challenge: staying relevant while remaining true to their roots. So how can fraternal societies expand their reach and impact in today's fast-changing financial landscape? According to Kate Shafer, a passionate advocate for community-driven insurance, the key lies in modernizing distribution and strengthening cross-sector partnerships. She highlights how fraternal societies are shedding outdated perceptions, embracing digital tools, and evolving beyond captive models to engage independent advisors. This transformation is unlocking new opportunities for growth, connection, and accessibility. From digitized member portals to cross-industry collaboration, Kate emphasizes that technology and advocacy together can help fraternal organizations thrive while honoring their founding values. In this episode of the Advisor Today podcast, Chris Gandy and Zack Huels sit down with Kate Shafer, Director of Member Engagement & Communications at the American Fraternal Alliance, to discuss expanding the reach of fraternal benefit societies through digital innovation and government advocacy. They explore how awareness gaps are being closed, why collaboration with advisors is essential, and how younger generations are entering the space.

    46 min
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This is NAIFA's Advisor Today Podcast Series where we focus on how financial advisors work, live, and give to their local communities and our greater financial services industry.

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