Podcast
Advisor Talk with Frank LaRosa
Hosted by Elite Consulting Partners · EN
Advisor Talk with Frank LaRosa offers unfiltered guidance and advice for financial advisors, wealth management professionals, and entrepreneurs alike who are interested in maximizing both their business and personal potential. Informed by Frank's unique insights and his personal conversations with industry leaders, the dynamic discussion topics of Advisor Talk include business ownership, leadership, practice management, transition and recruiting, marketing and branding, as well as a host of financial services related topics related to wirehouse, regional, and RIA advisors, firms, and teams. Frank’s goal, and the goal of his team at Elite Consulting Partners, is now as ever to be the go-to resource for actionable information and trusted guidance to elevate you and your career at whatever stage you may be.
34episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Special Edition: How Financial Advisors Should Be Thinking About AI
Mar 2300:51:54Tap to summarizeThe truth is, most financial advisors know they should be using AI. Very few know where to actually start. Too many tools. Too many platforms. Too much noise. But the advisors who take the time to learn it now will have a significant edge over those who wait. In this special edition of Advisor Talk, Frank LaRosa is joined by Chief Information Officer Sue Cheema, Chief Marketing Officer Brian Lutz, Director of Marketing and Brand Strategy Wade Shields, and co-host Stacey Frank for a wide-ranging roundtable on what AI actually means for financial advisors today. The group breaks down how advisors can use AI to grow their business, serve clients more effectively, and free up time, including how to build custom GPTs, craft better prompts, and choose the right platform for the right task. They also address the bigger picture: what AI will never be able to replace, why the human side of financial advising remains irreplaceable, and why advisors who ignore AI risk being left behind by the ones who embrace it. Frank and the team also discuss how AI is changing the way advisors should think about their brand, their marketing, and the client experience, and why the advisors who lean into what AI cannot do will be the ones who win long term. Questions answered in this episode include: Will AI replace financial advisors? How should a financial advisor start using AI in their practice? What is the difference between ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini? What is a custom GPT and how can advisors use one? What is prompt engineering and why does it matter? How is AI changing financial advisor marketing and branding? What can AI never replace in the advisor-client relationship? Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Why AI Matters for Advisors 03:57 – How Firms Are Already Using AI to Scan Books of Business 07:03 – What AI Cannot Replace: Empathy and the Human Edge 11:23 – Prompt Engineering: How to Get Better Answers from AI 14:10 – Building Custom GPTs for Your Advisory Practice 22:37 – ChatGPT vs. Claude vs. Gemini: Which One Should You Use 44:08 – Why AI Will Not Replace Advisors But This Will 49:05 – How to Reach the Team at Elite Consulting Partners Learn more about Elite and our resources: Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions https://eliteconsultingpartners.com Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors https://elitemarketingconcepts.com Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers & Acquisitions https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors https://jedidatabasesolutions.com Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/ Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elite-consulting-partners/ Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/
Transcribe →
Selling 20% of Your Practice? You May Lose Control
Mar 1900:27:53Tap to summarizeAt first glance, these offers can seem attractive. Gain liquidity. Access growth capital or strategic support. Remain with your current firm. Continue building your business. But are these deals really as straightforward as they sound? In this episode of Advisor Talk, Frank LaRosa and Stacey Frank break down what financial advisors need to consider before agreeing to a minority equity sale - including how these deals can impact control, future valuation, exit flexibility, buyback terms, and the long-term economics of the business. They also explain the difference between a minority equity sale and a transition loan, why net new asset growth plays such an important role in the outcome of these deals, and why some arrangements may appear appealing upfront but become far more complicated over time. Frank and Stacey also discuss when selling a minority stake in an advisory practice may be a smart strategic move - and when it may create limitations that advisors do not fully recognize until much later. Questions answered in this episode include: What is a sell and stay deal for financial advisors? Should a financial advisor sell 10% to 30% of their practice? What are the risks of minority equity deals in wealth management? How is a minority stake sale different from a transition loan? How do these deals affect control, valuation, and future exit options? When does it actually make sense to sell a minority stake in an RIA or broker-dealer practice? Key Highlights: 00:00 Preview: The Long Game Firms Are Playing 01:24 Welcome to Advisor Talk 02:31 The Minority Stake Trend: What Is Actually Happening 03:57 Advisor Concerns and Due Diligence 06:38 You Now Have a Partner Whether You Like It or Not 07:13 Exit Clauses: Why You Must Have One 07:57 Smaller Firms vs Bigger Firms: What the Exit Looks Like 09:10 Buyback Multiples: The Real Math 11:04 The Boiling Frog: How Firms Gain Control Slowly 14:10 Why Firms Need You to Grow and What That Means for You 16:28 The 5% Net New Asset Reality 19:40 The Easy Button Trap: Why Advisors Jump Too Fast 20:37 Minority Stake vs. Transition Loan: Know the Difference 23:17 When a Minority Sale Can Make Sense 24:08 Final Advice: Know the Vision. Know the Exit. 25:53 How to Reach Frank and Stacy Learn more about Elite and our resources: Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions https://eliteconsultingpartners.com Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors https://elitemarketingconcepts.com Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers & Acquisitions https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors https://jedidatabasesolutions.com Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/ Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elite-consulting-partners/
Transcribe →
Greatest Hits: M&A Masterclass with Jon Kuttin
Mar 1200:50:04Tap to summarizeFrank and Jon unpack: • Why today's competitive landscape means growth-motivated buyers must approach deals differently. • The three core reasons advisors pursue acquisitions - and which ones actually lead to long-term success. • How leverage, bank financing, and EBITDA-based lending really work in practice. • Why “fixer-upper” books may offer the strongest ROI. • How elite buyers win deals by understanding the emotional side of selling a practice. • The art of creating a safe landing place for sellers, their teams, and their clients. • Why phased buyouts and seller glide paths often create better retention and better economics for everyone. Jon also shares numbers, structures, and stories that demystify the math behind buying a practice - and the mindset required to scale from practitioner to true enterprise builder. If you're a buyer, seller, or advisor considering M&A in any form, this episode is a blueprint you can’t afford to miss. Resources: Jon Kuttin’s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jonathankuttin Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.com Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com JEDI Database Solutions | Data Intelligence for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.com Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/ Follow us on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/eliteconsultingpartners Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:08 Meet Jon Kuttin 04:42 What Makes a Buyer Truly Ready 13:56 Building Enterprise Value Through Acquisitions 17:20 Managing Risk, Liquidity & Debt Capacity 21:08 Where the Best Acquisition Opportunities Are 35:20 Why Seller Fit Matters More Than Price 42:02 Structuring Glide Paths, Partial Sales & Long-Term Transitions
Transcribe →
Greatest Hits: Private Equity, Independence, and the Future of Wealth Management with NewEdge CEO Rob Sechan
Mar 500:46:57Tap to summarizeFrank and Rob dive into: • Rob’s path from UBS and Morgan Stanley to launching NewEdge Wealth. • How NewEdge Wealth and NewEdge Advisors differ and advisor profiles that may fit each platform. • How multi-custody and open architecture models can offer flexibility. • Perspectives of some advisors that have experienced business growth after joining the firm. • The role of private equity and its innovation in wealth management. • How advisors may use niche marketing strategies and referral initiatives to identify opportunities. Whether you’re exploring alternatives to a wirehouse or staying informed on industry developments, this conversation offers a practical look at the choices and trade-offs within today’s independent landscape. Want to connect? • Reach out to Frank directly at frank@eliteconsultingpartners.com or send him a DM on LinkedIn. • You can also connect with Rob by emailing RSechan@NewEdgeCG.com or visiting his LinkedIn page. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:02 From Wirehouse Advisor to Building a New Platform 6:30 What Makes Elite Financial Advisors Different 8:08 NewEdge Wealth vs NewEdge Advisors Explained 18:08 Why Multi-Custody & Open Architecture Matter 27:00 How Top Advisors Accelerate Growth After Going Independent 36:09 Private Equity’s Role in the Future of Wealth Management 40:46 Why Advisors Should Explore the Independent Model Learn more about Elite and our resources: Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions https://eliteconsultingpartners.com Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors https://elitemarketingconcepts.com Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers & Acquisitions https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors https://jedidatabasesolutions.com Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/ “Assets “serviced by” the firm includes (i) client assets for which we provide investment advisory services, (ii) client assets for which we provide brokerage services through our affiliate, NewEdge Securities, LLC and (iii) client assets held at affiliated and unaffiliated broker dealers for which we provide supervisory oversight, support services and/or wealth strategy services. Opinions expressed are as of October 7, 2025, and may change without notice. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation regarding any security, strategy, or business relationship. Past performance does not guarantee future results. References to advisor experiences (including business growth, win rates, or referrals) reflect individual circumstances and are not representative of all advisors or outcomes. Results vary and are not guaranteed. Any testimonials or endorsements presented reflect the speaker’s opinion at the time made. If compensation or other benefits were provided in connection with a testimonial or endorsement, that fact will be disclosed. Such statements should not be construed as indicative of future performance or experience for all clients or advisors. Third-party firms, custodians, platforms, or services referenced are independent of NewEdge. Their inclusion does not constitute a recommendation, endorsement, or approval. Where third-party ratings or rankings are cited, the source and date apply; methodologies may differ, and ratings may not predict future performance. NewEdge may have business arrangements with certain third parties that present potential conflicts of interest; details available upon request. NewEdge may receive or provide referrals to or from third parties, including custodians, which may involve compensation or other benefits. Additional information about referral relationships and compensation is available upon request, A copy of the NewEdge’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees continues to remain available upon request or at www.newedgecg.com. All company names, logos, and trademarks are property of their respective owners and are used for identification only. References to media appearances do not constitute an endorsement.
Transcribe →
Greatest Hits: Cetera CEO Mike Durbin on the Future of Independent Financial Advisors
Feb 2600:53:49Tap to summarizeIn this Greatest Hits episode of Advisor Talk, Frank LaRosa sits down with Cetera CEO Mike Durbin for a wide-ranging, candid conversation about ownership structure, affiliation flexibility, M&A strategy, custody decisions, and what it really means to build a “forever home” for advisors. From private equity misconceptions to succession solutions, this episode explores how advisors can think strategically - not reactively - about their long-term growth. Mike shares insights from his 35-year career working directly with financial advisors, including leadership roles at Morgan Stanley and Fidelity, and explains why he returned to the independent space to help shape the next decade of advisor evolution You’ll hear discussion around: • Why multi-custody and multi-clearing can be a strategic advantage. • How private equity ownership can create stability instead of short-term pressure. • The importance of affiliation flexibility as careers evolve. • Why succession solutions should exist inside a firm - not outside it. • How large firms can still create community and localized support. • What “growth support” really looks like beyond recruiting deals. • Why diversification of revenue matters in a changing rate environment. Rather than focusing solely on headline recruiting deals or advisor headcount, this episode centers on a more important theme: Are you aligned with a partner that helps you play offense - not just react to change? As Mike states, it has never been a better time to be in the wealth management business - but it is changing quickly. If you’re a financial advisor evaluating independence, succession, M&A, or long-term firm alignment, this Greatest Hits conversation offers perspective on how to think about scale, ownership, and growth in a dynamic industry. Chapters: 01:03 – Episode Intro 04:10 – Mike’s Background 09:16 – Private Equity & Ownership 14:35 – Affiliation Flexibility 26:24 – Multi-Custody Strategy 32:30 – M&A & Consolidation 37:31 – Scale vs Community 40:06 – Recruiting Economics 44:00 – Growth & Marketing Support 50:26 – Playing Offense Learn more about Elite and our resources: Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions https://eliteconsultingpartners.com Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors https://elitemarketingconcepts.com Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers & Acquisitions https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors https://jedidatabasesolutions.com Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/
Transcribe →
Minority Stakes in Advisory Practices: Opportunity or Trap?
Feb 1900:27:54Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Advisor Talk, Frank LaRosa and Stacey Frank break down the realities behind minority equity deals in advisory practices - including what advisors often misunderstand about control, exit clauses, valuation multiples, and long-term implications.Frank explains why even a 10–20% minority stake effectively creates a partner in your business - whether you think of it that way or not - and why advisors must think beyond the upfront check and consider the unwind scenario before signing anything.They also explain the difference between taking a transition loan versus selling equity - and why one is far easier to reverse if things don’t go as planned.Key questions explored in this episode:What does selling a minority stake actually mean for control?Even at 10–20%, you now have a financial partner whose incentives may influence hiring, spending, technology, and growth strategy.Is there usually an exit clause?In many cases, especially with smaller RIAs, there may be little to no unwind option. Larger firms may offer buyback terms — but often at a higher multiple if you’ve grown.Why are broker-dealers offering these deals now?Firms are looking to accelerate growth beyond the industry’s typical 5% net new asset growth rate and to retain advisors long term.If you’re a financial advisor considering selling 10–30% of your practice - or being approached with a “sell and stay” offer - this episode will help you think through the long-term consequences before you sign.Chapters:01:06 – Episode Intro03:12 – Advisor Concerns04:45 – Revenue vs Profit Share06:02 – You Now Have a Partner06:59 – Exit Clauses Explained10:16 – Control & Fees14:09 – Growth Expectations18:25 – Why Firms Invest25:28 – Don’t Decide on MoneyLearn more about Elite and our resources:Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitionshttps://eliteconsultingpartners.comElite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisorshttps://elitemarketingconcepts.comElite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers & Acquisitionshttps://eliteadvisorsuccessions.comJEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisorshttps://jedidatabasesolutions.comListen to more Advisor Talk episodes:https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/
Transcribe →
How Financial Advisors Should Actually Be Using AI
Feb 1200:27:08Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Advisor Talk, Frank LaRosa and Stacey Frank take a grounded, advisor-first look at how AI is actually changing the profession - and why the future of advice is still fundamentally human.Rather than fearing AI, Frank explains why this moment closely mirrors the rise of online trading in the early 2000s - a shift that many believed would eliminate advisors, but ultimately made great advisors even more valuable.This conversation centers on a critical idea:Technology can provide data. Only humans can provide wisdom.Frank and Stacey break down how AI can enhance efficiency, buy back time, and improve service - while also exposing advisors who rely solely on technology without building real client relationships.They also introduce the concept of co-intelligence - where advisors use AI as a tool, not a replacement and explain why empathy, clarity, and human judgment remain the true differentiators in financial advice.Key questions explored in this episode:Will AI put financial advisors out of business?No. But it will challenge advisors who lack a strong service model or meaningful client relationships.Why doesn’t AI replace the advisor-client relationship?Because clients don’t hire advisors for calculations - they hire them for clarity, reassurance, and guidance through uncertainty.How should advisors be using AI today?As a way to remove friction, automate tasks, and free up time to focus on deeper client conversations and better service.What is “co-intelligence”?A mindset where AI delivers information, while advisors provide judgment, empathy, and leadership.What happens to advisors who ignore AI altogether?They risk falling behind firms that use technology to become more efficient - and more human - at the same time.If you’re a financial advisor wondering how AI fits into your practice - or worried about what it means for your future - this episode offers perspective, clarity, and a practical way forward.Chapters:00:49 – Intro02:55 – Online Trading Parallel04:40 – AI Fear05:30 – Human Advice08:47 – Co-Intelligence10:46 – Clarity vs Calculators12:58 – Human Advantage16:25 – Service WinsLearn more about Elite and our resources:Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitionshttps://eliteconsultingpartners.comElite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisorshttps://elitemarketingconcepts.comElite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers & Acquisitionshttps://eliteadvisorsuccessions.comJEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisorshttps://jedidatabasesolutions.comListen to more Advisor Talk episodes:https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/
Transcribe →
Should Financial Advisors Stay or Switch Firms? The Cost of Not Deciding
Feb 500:21:48Tap to summarizeKey questions answered in this episode:What does it mean when financial advisors choose not to decide?Choosing to stay put - without evaluating alternatives - is still an active decision, often driven by comfort, fear, or overwhelm rather than strategy.Why do advisors delay firm transitions even when they’re unhappy?Two major factors show up repeatedly: the path of least resistance and paralysis by analysis. Both create inertia that keeps advisors stuck.Is transitioning firms as risky as advisors think?Modern transitions are more automated, efficient, and client-friendly than ever. The perceived risk is often outdated.How does too much information stop advisors from moving forward?Without a filter, advisors get overwhelmed by competing offers, recruiters, and platforms - leading many to shut down instead of decide.Why should advisors evaluate their firm regularly - even if they’re not planning to move?Because you can’t know what you’re saying no to unless you understand what options actually exist.If you’re a financial advisor who feels frustrated, stuck, or unsure whether staying put is truly the right move, this episode offers clarity - not pressure - to help you think through your next step.For many advisors, simply understanding what’s available is enough to break decision fatigue and regain momentum.Learn more about Elite and our resources:Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitionshttps://eliteconsultingpartners.comElite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisorshttps://elitemarketingconcepts.comElite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers & Acquisitionshttps://eliteadvisorsuccessions.comJEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisorshttps://jedidatabasesolutions.comListen to more Advisor Talk episodes:https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/
Transcribe →
Why Do the Most Successful Financial Advisors Focus on Purpose Instead of Payout?
Jan 2900:29:47Tap to summarizeFrank and Stacey break down the critical difference between goals and purpose, why confusing the two leads to burnout, and how advisors who reconnect to their “why” build stronger client relationships, make better transition decisions, and enjoy their careers longer. Key questions answered in this episode: What is the difference between a financial advisor’s goals and their purpose? Goals define outcomes; purpose defines motivation. Advisors who mistake goals for purpose often feel lost after achieving success. Why do advisors feel unfulfilled after hitting major milestones? Reaching AUM targets, exit valuations, or retirement dates doesn’t replace the deeper fulfillment that comes from meaningful client impact. How does purpose improve advisor-client relationships? Advisors who understand a client’s underlying purpose - not just financial objectives - build deeper trust and longer-lasting relationships. Why do many advisors think they want to retire when they really want a better environment? Burnout is often driven by firm constraints, not a loss of passion for clients. What conversations should advisors be having with clients that most never do? Purpose-driven conversations lead to better outcomes for both advisors and clients. If you’re a financial advisor questioning your next move, feeling disconnected from your work, or considering a transition, this episode provides a framework to rethink success - and reconnect with why you started in the first place. For many advisors, rediscovering purpose is also what clarifies whether a firm transition is necessary - or whether the real issue is the environment they’re in. Learn more about Elite and our resources: Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions https://eliteconsultingpartners.com Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors https://elitemarketingconcepts.com Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers & Acquisitions https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors https://jedidatabasesolutions.com Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/
Transcribe →
Are You Making a Transactional or Transformational Career Move?
Jan 2200:36:30Tap to summarizeShow highlights include: -Why focusing only on upfront payouts can leave money on the table.-How growth-minded advisors evaluate leadership, technology, and firm culture.-What truly separates firms that say they help you grow from those that actually do.-Why due diligence matters more than most advisors realize.-The importance of viewing your firm as a long-term partner, not a temporary stop.If you’re considering a move - or even thinking about your future trajectory - this episode will challenge you to rethink what success really looks like and how to avoid costly mistakes along the way.Learn more about our companies and resources:-Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com-Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors: https://elitemarketingconcepts.com-Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions: https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com-JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors: https://jedidatabasesolutions.com Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes: https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/
Transcribe →