AFO|Wealth Management Forward

In this episode, Rory has a thought-provoking conversation with Andrew Lassise, the founder of Tech 4 Accountants. They provide a Bridging the Gap Conference round-up and dive into Intuit's Tax AI Assitant release. Andrew sheds light on the emergence of artificial intelligence and the impacts it could have on the accounting profession. Listen to Andrew do an AI Nasdaq rap and the different ways he is using ChatGPT as a sounding board for work. Rory and Andrew discuss how the role of accountants is continually evolving due to rapid technological advancements, resulting in enhanced efficiency and a shift towards high-value activities like strategic planning and nurturing client relationships. Andrew emphasizes the critical domain of cybersecurity and its growing significance in safeguarding sensitive financial data. If you're curious about the future of accounting and the innovative tools reshaping the profession, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss with Accounting Tech leader Andrew Lassise!

Rory talks to Michael DiJoseph, a senior strategist at Vanguard, about decision-making in investing. They discuss the limitations of using common decision-making strategies in the financial markets. They delve into the value of advisors and behavioral coaching in navigating the emotional rollercoaster of investing. The concept of advisor's alpha is introduced, highlighting the added value a financial advisor can provide. They also explore maximizing value in a portfolio through tax efficiency and behavioral coaching. The importance of advisors in helping clients during market downturns is emphasized, along with the concept of creating alternate histories for understanding investment impact.

Mark Akeroyd, Head of Product at Lumiant, discusses the art of aligning client's values with financial goals, infusing purpose into planning. He emphasizes the role of non-financial spouses and the importance of delivering memorable client experiences. They explore the power of storytelling and integrating health and wellness into a life plan.

In our latest episode, Rory speaks with Alex Loewenstein, General Manager of Paro.ai, diving deep into the evolving dynamics of the accounting landscape. Learn about the power of relationships as Alex outlines key strategies to enhance your chances of business success by broadening your network, and hear how Jeff Phillips, CEO of Paget Business Services, has influenced his professional journey. Gain insights into the evolving expectations of the next-generation workforce, focusing on work-life balance, skill development, and equitable treatment as primary motivators. Discover how firms are staying ahead through visionary leadership, technological innovation, and strategic outsourcing. Learn why a robust digital and social media presence can be an effective recruitment strategy. Finally, don't miss Rory and Alex's thoughts on future trends, including the potential for acquisitions by non-traditional players venturing into the accounting space. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode with Paro.ai's General Manager Alex Loewenstein!

In this latest episode, Rory engages with Ed Warren to talk about the latest events in accounting and how they are shaping the profession's future. Ed and Rory discuss the recent acquisition of BergenKDV, the $100 million-dollar accounting firm out of Minnesota, by the RIA Creative Planning and the value of integrating accounting and wealth management worlds. They also highlight the recent news of BDO and the 1.3 Billion dollar deal to become an ESOP, the significance of this ownership structure, and how it enhances employee engagement and loyalty. Ed discusses the importance of having a well-defined and actively managed sales pipeline. They underscore the importance of adaptability and flexibility in work structures to not only retain top-tier talent but also to cater to the evolving needs of clients. Lastly, Ed introduces the concept of being a "financial Sherpa," someone who guides clients toward their financial goals rather than just providing retrospective advice. Don't miss this episode if you want the latest commentary on the accounting profession, as well as tips to increase and bolster your sales pipeline with Ed Warren of Sage!

In this podcast episode, Rory engages in an enlightening conversation with Zach Baughan to talk about mindfulness, personal development, and a holistic approach to both finances and life. Zach shares his insights on mindfulness and meditation, discussing their benefits for busy professionals and individuals seeking a more balanced life. He emphasizes the connection between how we handle one aspect of life and how it reflects in others, promoting the idea that a holistic approach yields greater fulfillment. Zach's personalized coaching strategies and emphasis on authentic values offer guidance for self-discovery. He also discusses the impact of relationships on personal growth, highlighting the influence of his father. Zach envisions a future where he can help people to create a purposeful environment as well as practice. Learn ways to start a mindfulness practice through five minutes of daily meditation and gradually expanding to a more dedicated regimen. Don't miss this illuminating episode on mindfulness, personal growth, and holistic living with the Zach Baughan

In our latest episode, Rory speaks with John Prendergast, CEO of Blueleaf, about the latest in wealth management, behavioral finance, and the future of advice. They highlight the importance of understanding clients' behavior and psychology in wealth management and how contextualizing information can lead to better client outcomes. Find out what John has learned from the over 100 million interactions with clients and how he you can leverage the digital blueprint of TikTok, Facebook, and Netflix to stay top of mind with clients. John shares a personal story of starting his first business, a Boston Chicken franchise, and how it shaped his approach to managing investors' money and caring for his employees. They also discuss the potential for technology companies and banks to get more involved in the worlds of accounting and wealth, as well as the integration of banking, wealth, accounting, and insurance services. Discover valuable insights into the evolving landscape of wealth management and the significance of relationships and behavioral understanding of how people make decisions in a digital world with guest John Prendergast!

In this episode of the podcast, Rory Henry interviews Christine Nicholson, a multi-award-winning business mentor who specializes in exit and succession planning for business owners. Christine shares her personal journey and how it led her to become an expert in helping business owners transition out of the day-to-day operations of their businesses. She emphasizes the importance of developing a strategic plan and delegating tasks to free up time for more strategic thinking. Christine also discusses the value of shareholder agreements and the need to plan for the inevitable exit from the business. The conversation concludes with a powerful message about the importance of finding joy and purpose in life beyond business. With a focus on practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for any business owner looking to plan for the future.

Davyde Wachell, CEO of Responsive AI, discusses leveraging AI in Hollywood and the value of creative assets. They explore the integration of wealth management into tax practices and AI's role in analyzing tax forms for significant life events. The podcast also delves into the concept of the history illusion and the importance of embracing change. They discuss Davyde's meeting with BlackRock's CEO and the evolving role of accountants as advisors.

In this episode, Rory engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Mike Maksymiw, CPA, an executive with Aprio Firm Alliance. Together, they delve into the dynamic and innovative trends shaping the accounting profession while emphasizing the importance of cultivating meaningful relationships. Mike shares his deep passion for leadership and connecting individuals with valuable resources, which he considers his "Zone of Genius." He discusses the transformative impact of his involvement in the AICPA leadership academy and the invaluable support he received from his peers. Aligning values with goals and lifestyle choices is a key theme explored by Mike, who shares his personal values of freedom, family, and innovation and his aspirations to make a meaningful contribution to the profession. The evolving role of technology and artificial intelligence in the accounting field is also examined, with both Mike and Rory emphasizing the need to prioritize the human aspects of advice. The episode concludes with a powerful message about embracing the dimension of possibility and finding happiness in the pursuit of one's goals. Don't miss this engaging podcast featuring one of the accounting profession's innovative leaders!