Advertise on podcast: The Blueprint: An FPA NexGen® Podcast

What helps a financial planning career move forward when confidence is still catching up? In this conference edition of The Blueprint | FPA NexGen® Podcast, Mike Zarrelli, CFP®, EA and Alison Miller, CFP® bring listeners into conversations at FPA Gather in Dallas about finding mentors, building relationships, and taking the next career step. Guests include senior financial planner and tax practice manager Blake Pinion CFP®, EA , firm partner C.J. Miller CFP®, RMA®, CPWA®, and students, career changers, and practicing advisors. Their experiences offer early-career financial planners a candid look at overcoming self-doubt, advocating for advancement, and understanding the personal stories behind a commitment to serving clients. Executive Producer: @Jadah Riley “The best advice I've ever received is to advocate for yourself.” — Haley Ellis, CFP®, CPFA® What You’ll Learn Approach financial planning conferences with a clear intention and a follow-through plan. Build confidence through repetition, questions, and relationships with peers. Recognize how personal experiences shape an advisor’s purpose. Understand why partnership and succession require deliberate talent development. Explore how career changers and graduates find their footing. Strengthen client relationships through empathy and attentive listening. Key Takeaways Choose one achievable conference goal, such as finding a mentor. Protect time for focused work as responsibilities grow. Discuss career ambitions with leadership before expecting a defined path. Build connections early; opportunities can travel through word of mouth. Meet clients at an emotional level before guiding them toward logic. Begin implementing useful ideas before conference momentum fades. Episode Timestamps 00:00:00 – Opening story: the personal impact of financial planning 00:00:35 – Conference preparation, networking, and mentorship 00:07:42 – Advisor stories: confidence, purpose, and self-advocacy 00:23:13 – Firm partnership and succession planning 00:25:16 – Career growth, finding purpose, and changing careers 00:37:10 – Client trust, empathy, and finding your footing 00:46:06 – Gather reflections and putting lessons into practice

The Blueprint | FPA NexGen® Podcast opens season five with a candid career conversation featuring Mike Zarrelli, CFP®, EA, Alison Miller, CFP®, and Executive Producer Jadah Riley. Rather than a traditional guest interview, the team reflects on lessons from season four and shares what they are learning as their own careers continue to evolve. For early-career advisors focused on financial planning career growth, this episode gets practical about landing a first financial planning job, building a professional network, translating past experience into relevant skills, using AI more intentionally, and finding the right environment for continued development. The team also discusses career transitions, promotions, volunteering, mentorship, and why getting meaningful “reps” can compound over time. “You need some reps because it’s all about the story that you can tell.” What You’ll Learn Build a stronger network by getting involved with professional organizations and creating relationships before job opportunities appear. Translate experience from another career, college job, or service role into skills that financial planning firms can recognize and value. Strengthen your candidacy through education, industry involvement, informational interviews, and proactive professional development. Use AI to practice communication, learn new technology, organize information, create training resources, and prepare for client conversations. Evaluate whether your current role provides the environment, challenge, and client exposure needed for continued career growth. Develop confidence by deliberately seeking repetitions in client meetings, interviews, presentations, leadership, and volunteer work. Key Takeaways Do not rely exclusively on applications; relationships can put you closer to the people making hiring decisions. Frame previous experience around the value it can create for clients, teams, and financial planning firms. Career growth often happens below the surface before the results become visible. AI is most useful when it strengthens human communication and frees time for higher-value work. The right professional environment becomes increasingly important once you have developed foundational advisor skills. Peers, mentors, volunteering, and professional communities can provide perspective during major career decisions. Episode Timestamps 00:00:00 – Building your network to break into financial planning 00:00:55 – Season five kickoff and introductions 00:01:35 – Favorite lessons from season four 00:08:30 – How to land your first financial planning job 00:12:05 – Career changers, networking, and interview preparation 00:17:15 – How financial advisors are using AI 00:24:20 – Promotions, career transitions, and professional growth 00:30:15 – Why reps and discomfort drive career development 00:34:25 – Season five preview and Mike’s final season Executive Producer: @Jadah Riley

In this episode of The Blueprint | FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Mike Zarrelli, CFP®, EA and Alison Miller, CFP® sit down with Andrew Mirolli, CEPA® Co-Founder and Head of Client Services at buyAUM.com, to explore one of the financial planning profession’s biggest opportunities: RIA succession planning. Andrew explains how early-career financial planners can position themselves to become trusted successors, build more valuable advisory practices, and earn the confidence of senior advisors. The conversation covers the importance of earning the CFP® certification, developing recurring revenue, delivering exceptional client service, and proving that you are prepared to protect relationships built over decades. “Don’t wait for things to be handed to you. Take the stairs.” What You’ll Learn How young financial advisors can identify succession opportunities in their local markets Why earning the CFP® certification can strengthen your position as a potential successor How to prove that you are ready to inherit important client relationships Why recurring fee-based revenue can increase the long-term value of an advisory practice How financial planning, client service, and trust contribute to stronger client retention The practical differences between internal and external RIA succession plans Key Takeaways A succession opportunity must be earned through consistent performance—not assumed from a promise Senior advisors want successors who will protect their clients and preserve their legacy Bringing in new clients and building professional relationships demonstrates readiness for leadership Recurring advisory and planning revenue generally creates a more durable business than transactional revenue Exceptional service helps build the client loyalty buyers value during a transition The best succession structure depends on the goals of the owner, successor, team, and clients Episode Timestamps 00:00:00 – Introduction and Andrew Mirolli’s path to buyAUM 00:04:40 – The RIA succession opportunity for NextGen advisors 00:09:20 – “Take the stairs” and prove you can lead client relationships 00:13:15 – Building a financial planning practice with long-term value 00:18:30 – Niches, trust, financial planning, and client retention 00:22:55 – What retiring advisors want in a successor 00:27:05 – Internal versus external succession plans 00:32:02 – Why financial planning is a career worth building Executive Producer: @Jadah Riley

Taxes influence virtually every financial planning recommendation, yet many advisors hesitate to make tax planning part of their client experience. In this episode of The Blueprint | FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Mike Zarrelli, CFP®, EA and Alison Miller, CFP®welcome Stephen Jarvis, CPA, founder of Retirement Tax Services, for an in-depth conversation about bridging the gap between financial planners and tax professionals. Stephen explains why every advisor should incorporate tax awareness into their planning process—even without becoming a tax expert. He shares practical advice on building stronger CPA relationships, requesting tax returns from clients, creating successful referral partnerships, evaluating tax designations, and developing communication skills that accelerate career growth. The discussion also explores why experience matters more than additional credentials, how advisors can confidently begin offering tax planning, and why taking action on new ideas is the key to long-term success. Whether you're an aspiring financial planner or an experienced advisor looking to strengthen your tax planning process, this episode is packed with actionable insights you can implement immediately. Executive Producer: Jadah Riley What You'll Learn Why tax planning belongs in every financial planning engagement The easiest way to start incorporating taxes into your advice process How to build stronger relationships with CPAs and tax professionals Why requesting tax returns can uncover planning opportunities Strategies for creating long-term referral partnerships The pros and cons of tax designations for advisors Communication techniques that separate top advisors from the rest Why implementation matters more than information Key Takeaways Every financial decision creates tax consequences. Advisors don't need to become CPAs—but they do need tax awareness. Strong CPA relationships begin with understanding each other's value. Asking for tax returns is one of the simplest ways to improve client outcomes. Real-world experience develops tax planning skills faster than collecting credentials. Difficult conversations are a career-defining skill for advisors. Recording and reviewing yourself is one of the fastest ways to improve communication. Knowledge only creates value when it's followed by action. Episode Chapters 00:00 Introduction & Stephen's Favorite Tax Code Oddities 02:20 Stephen Jarvis' Journey into Tax Planning 06:00 Why Every Financial Decision Has Tax Consequences 10:00 Building Better Relationships Between Advisors & CPAs 15:15 The First Step Into Tax Planning 19:10 Breaking the Ice with Tax Professionals 24:10 Building Referral Partnerships That Actually Work 29:10 The Future of Tax Planning in Financial Advice 33:00 Should Advisors Pursue Tax Designations? 35:10 How to Get Clients to Share Their Tax Returns 37:10 Career Advice: Communication & Difficult Conversations 38:15 Podcasting as a Communication Tool 39:13 Knowledge Only Matters If You Take Action

In this episode of The Blueprint | An FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Mike Zarrelli, CFP®, EA and Alison Miller, CFP® welcome Seth Streeter, Co-Founder and Chief Impact Officer of Mission Wealth, for an inspiring conversation about what it truly means to help clients build wealth. Drawing from his own entrepreneurial journey and decades of experience serving clients, Seth explains why the future of financial planning extends far beyond investment management. He introduces his powerful 12 Dimensions of Wealth framework, shares why authenticity is one of an advisor's greatest competitive advantages, and discusses how emotional intelligence, deep listening, and purpose-driven leadership will differentiate the next generation of financial planners in an AI-powered world. Whether you're an aspiring CFP® professional, an associate advisor, or an experienced planner looking to deepen client relationships, this episode offers practical insights that will help you become more than a technical expert—you'll learn how to become the trusted guide your clients need most. Executive Producer: Jadah Riley What You'll Learn How the 12 Dimensions of Wealth help clients define true fulfillment Why authenticity is one of the greatest competitive advantages for advisors The difference between being a technical "mechanic" and a trusted client "guide" How deep listening strengthens client relationships and builds lifelong trust Why emotional intelligence (EQ) is becoming more valuable than technical expertise How AI is changing financial planning—and where human advisors create the most value Practical ways early-career advisors can develop coaching and leadership skills How Mission Wealth built a culture focused on purpose, growth, and client impact Key Takeaways Financial planning is about helping clients build meaningful lives—not simply growing portfolios. The strongest client relationships are built through curiosity, empathy, and authentic conversations. Advisors who embrace their unique personalities attract more aligned clients and career opportunities. AI will increasingly automate technical work, making human connection even more valuable. Great advisors ask better questions instead of simply providing better answers. Developing guide skills today will become one of the greatest differentiators for tomorrow's financial planners. Episode Chapters 00:00 – Welcome & Meet Seth Streeter 02:45 – Building Mission Wealth from the Ground Up 08:00 – Starting a Firm with Purpose 13:30 – The 12 Dimensions of Wealth Explained 18:30 – Helping Clients Find Fulfillment Beyond Money 23:15 – From Financial Planner to Trusted Guide 27:30 – Deep Listening & Coaching Conversations 31:15 – Why EQ Will Matter More Than AI 34:15 – Hiring Future Financial Advisors 36:15 – Final Advice for Early-Career Planners

In this episode of The Blueprint | FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Mike Zarrelli, CFP®, EA and Alison Miller, CFP® welcome Nichole Graham CFP®, CDFA Financial Analyst at Wellspring Divorce Advisors and Financial Advisor at Regista Financial Strategies. Nichole shares how trusting her intuition transformed her career, allowing her to embrace remote work, contract opportunities, and a rewarding specialization in divorce financial planning. She opens up about moving across the country, building community through FPA NexGen®, balancing work across multiple firms, and developing the confidence to become the advisor she was meant to be. For early-career financial planners, this episode is packed with actionable advice on career development, networking, client relationships, and creating a career aligned with your values. What You'll Learn Why trusting your instincts can accelerate your financial planning career How remote work can create new opportunities for advisors The advantages and challenges of transitioning from W-2 employment to 1099 contract work How FPA NexGen® can help build your professional network Why empathy is one of the most valuable skills in financial planning How financial planners can better serve clients navigating divorce Tips for managing multiple firms and balancing competing priorities Building confidence while developing your own advising style Key Takeaways Career growth often comes from taking calculated risks. Your work environment has a significant impact on long-term success. Community and mentorship can dramatically accelerate professional development. Authenticity builds stronger client relationships than trying to imitate others. Financial planners create tremendous value simply by helping clients feel heard. Independent and contract work offers flexibility but requires intentional planning. Emotional intelligence is just as important as technical expertise. Episode Chapters 00:00 – Introduction & Meet Nichole Graham 01:25 – Moving Across the Country & Embracing Career Change 04:10 – Building Community Through FPA NexGen® 06:45 – Thriving in a Remote Work Environment 09:30 – Creating a Morning Routine for Success 12:15 – Transitioning from W-2 Employment to Contract Work 16:20 – Balancing Multiple Firms & Client Relationships 20:05 – How FPA NexGen® Accelerated Nichole's Career 23:30 – Volunteering, Travel & Avoiding Burnout 26:10 – Discovering Financial Planning as a Helping Profession 29:00 – Trusting Your Gut & Finding Your Own Voice 31:20 – Advice for Advisors Considering Independent Contract Work 32:25 – Final Thoughts on Supporting Clients Through Divorce

In this inspiring episode of The Blueprint | FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Mike Zarrelli, CFP®, EA and Alison Miller, CFP® sit down with entrepreneur and financial planner Chris Wise CFP®, founder of Wise Capital Partners, to discuss building a modern financial planning firm that prioritizes both wealth and well-being. Chris shares his journey from growing up in a financial planning family to forging his own path, returning to transform the family business, and leading through extraordinary personal challenges. He offers candid insights on mentorship, entrepreneurship, leadership, delegation, and why the future of financial planning extends far beyond investment management. From creating a culture of emotional wellness inside his firm to reimagining financial planning through a "health and wealth" lens, Chris challenges advisors to think differently about the impact they can have on clients' lives. For early-career advisors, business owners, and aspiring firm leaders, this conversation delivers practical wisdom on building a fulfilling career while helping clients build fulfilling lives. Hosted by Mike Zarrelli, CFP®, EA and Alison Miller, CFP®. Executive Producer: @Jadah Riley What You'll Learn • Why mentorship accelerates growth more than trying to know everything yourself • How entrepreneurship changes the way advisors think about leadership • Why delegation is essential for scaling a successful advisory firm • How health and financial planning intersect to improve client outcomes • Lessons learned from taking over a family business during a crisis • Why early-career advisors should focus on learning before earning Key Takeaways • Strong relationships create better advisors and better businesses. • Financial planning is ultimately about helping people, not managing investments. • Building a team around your strengths creates greater long-term impact. • Health is one of the greatest forms of wealth clients can possess. • Mentorship provides experience that cannot be learned from textbooks. • Career success compounds over time through consistency and continuous learning. Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction & Meet Chris Wise 02:45 – The Origin of "Wise Up" 07:15 – Growing Up Around Financial Planning 13:40 – Leaving and Returning to the Family Business 19:45 – Leadership Through Crisis During COVID 25:10 – Building a Personal Board of Mentors 30:45 – Entrepreneurship, Delegation & Wearing Multiple Hats 35:50 – Why Health Should Be Part of Financial Planning 40:15 – Creating Better Client Outcomes Through Emotional Wellness 42:15 – Advice for Early-Career Financial Planners 43:09 – Final Thoughts & Wise Up

What if financial planning wasn’t just about accumulating wealth — but helping clients intentionally design their lives? In this episode of The Blueprint | FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Mike Zarrelli, CFP®, EA and Alison Miller, CFP® sit down with Breanna Rae Blaney, CEO and Founder of Anya Institute and creator of the Integrative Wealth Advisor Certification and host of the Human Evolution Podcast. Breanna shares why financial planners occupy one of the most influential seats in a client’s life — and why the future of financial advice extends far beyond investments and retirement projections. Together, they explore money psychology, identity, financial planner self-awareness, relational intelligence, and how advisors can become trusted guides helping clients align money with meaning. Whether you’re a student entering financial planning, an early-career advisor, or a seasoned professional looking to deepen client relationships, this episode delivers practical tools and thought-provoking insights to elevate your impact. Executive Producer: @Jadah Riley What You'll Learn • Why money is a tool—not the ultimate goal • How financial planners shape client decisions beyond financial plans • The importance of understanding your own money story and money scripts • Why relational intelligence matters in modern wealth management • Daily habits that improve clarity, confidence, and advisor effectiveness • How curiosity and self-awareness strengthen client relationships • Why younger planners bring unique value to the profession • The future of transformational financial advice Key Takeaways • Financial planning extends beyond numbers—it shapes lives • Why self-awareness helps advisors better serve clients • Understanding your own beliefs around money improves advice delivery • The future of financial advice is deeply human • How curiosity, consistency, and reflection strengthen leadership Episode Chapters 00:00 Welcome & Introduction 02:12 What money means and how perceptions evolve 06:15 Why wealth accumulation alone doesn’t create fulfillment 10:20 Becoming a guide instead of a problem solver 15:05 Identity, self-awareness, and advisor growth 19:42 Understanding money scripts and financial behaviors 23:55 Transformational client relationships vs transactional advice 28:11 Why younger advisors have an advantage 31:42 Meditation, routines, and building resilience 35:20 Morning habits for advisor performance 38:05 Final reflections on redefining wealth

What does it take to build a successful career in financial planning while staying grounded in purpose, relationships, and service? In this episode of The Blueprint | FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Mike Zarrelli, CFP®, EA and Alison Miller, CFP welcome legendary CFP exam educator and financial advisor Brett Danko, CFP® for a powerful conversation on entrepreneurship, resilience, mentorship, and the evolving future of financial planning. Brett opens up about his journey from launching his own RIA and CFP® education business to helping thousands of professionals pursue CFP® certification. He shares lessons on leadership, delegation, mindset, emotional intelligence, and how life experiences reshaped his perspective on success, family, and work-life balance. The discussion also dives into CFP® exam preparation strategies, the psychology behind testing success, why empathy matters more than technical expertise, and how AI may reshape—but not replace—the advisor-client relationship. This episode is packed with practical insight, career guidance, and meaningful perspective for early-career advisors and experienced wealth management professionals alike. Executive Producer: @Jadah Riley What You’ll Learn Why mindset is critical for CFP® exam success How Brett Danko built a nationally recognized CFP® education business The role empathy plays in becoming a successful advisor Why delegation and leadership matter in scaling a firm How advisors can prepare for the future impact of AI Why relationships and reputation compound over time in this profession How life experiences can reshape your approach to career and balance Key Takeaways Why mindset and confidence are critical components of CFP® exam success The importance of storytelling and practical application when learning financial planning concepts How delegation and hiring the right people can strengthen both an RIA and an education business Why empathy and communication matter more than investment selection alone Lessons Brett Danko learned from entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal adversity How long-term relationships and personal reputation compound throughout a financial planning career Why younger advisors should embrace curiosity, adaptability, and continuous learning The evolving role of AI in financial planning—and why human connection still matters How advisors can create deeper client trust through goal-based financial planning Why finding alignment between career, purpose, and personal life is essential for long-term success Episode Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Brett Danko,CFP® 03:12 – Building Danko Education and Early Career Lessons 08:45 – Delegation, Leadership, and Scaling a Business 15:18 – Family, Perspective, and Work-Life Balance 22:40 – Why Brett Became Passionate About Financial Planning 30:05 – CFP Exam Strategy and Mental Preparation 39:12 – The Psychology Behind Exam Success 46:08 – Becoming a Better Advisor Beyond Technical Knowledge 53:15 – AI, the Future of Financial Planning, and Industry Opportunities 57:48 – Final Advice for Next Generation Advisors

In this special Career Changers edition of The Blueprint | FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Mike Zarrelli, CFP®, EA and Alison Miller, CFP® sit down with Emily Green and Wilson Lou to unpack what it really takes to transition into financial planning from entirely different industries.  From engineering burnout to healthcare and entrepreneurship pivots, Emily and Wilson share honest insights into navigating uncertainty, overcoming imposter syndrome, and building a meaningful career in financial planning. Whether you're exploring a career shift or already making the leap, this episode offers practical guidance and inspiration for your journey. Executive Producer: @Jadah Riley What You’ll Learn How to successfully pivot into financial planning from any career The emotional and financial realities of starting over Why soft skills are a major advantage for career changers Strategies to land your first role in the industry How FPA NexGen supports career changers Key Takeaways Career changers bring valuable real-world perspective and client empathy Expect a temporary step back in title, pay, or confidence Networking and informational interviews are critical to breaking in The CFP® path builds credibility and confidence Immersion and consistency accelerate career growth Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction & Career Changer Theme 02:10 – Emily & Wilson’s Unique Career Journeys 06:45 – First Steps Into Financial Planning 12:30 – The Psychological Shift of Starting Over 18:05 – Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 23:40 – Transferable Skills That Drive Success 28:15 – Technical vs. People Skills in Planning 31:50 – Breaking Into the Industry & Job Search Tips 35:20 – FPA NexGen Career Changer Resources

In this special episode of The Blueprint | An FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Mike Zarrelli, CFP®, EA and Alison Miller, CFP® sit down with industry pioneer and thought leader Michael Kitces for a masterclass on building a successful career in financial planning. From the impact of AI on entry-level roles to the real path toward partnership, Kitces delivers practical, no-nonsense advice for early-career advisors navigating a rapidly evolving profession. Whether you're just starting out or positioning yourself for leadership, this episode is packed with insights you can act on immediately. At the core of it all? One simple truth: “there’s no substitute for getting the reps in.” What You’ll Learn How AI is reshaping—but not eliminating—entry-level advisor roles Why communication skills are your biggest long-term advantage The fastest way to accelerate your career early on What hiring managers actually look for in new planners How to position yourself for partnership and equity Why firm growth and alignment matter more than you think Key Takeaways AI is a tool for advisors—not a replacement for them Career growth comes from repetition and real client experience Passing the CFP® exam early significantly de-risks you as a candidate The best way to grow is to proactively seek opportunities—not wait for them Equity is earned by contributing to firm growth, not just service Alignment in vision, culture, and growth is critical for long-term success Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction & Why This Episode Matters 02:15 – AI in Financial Planning: Threat or Opportunity? 07:40 – Why AI Enhances (Not Replaces) Associate Advisors 12:30 – The Importance of Communication & Client Trust 18:10 – “Get the Reps In”: Building Confidence Early 24:20 – How to Stand Out in a Competitive Hiring Market 31:45 – What Firms Actually Look for in New Advisors 38:10 – From Technical Skills to Client Leadership 43:20 – The Truth About Partnership & Equity Paths 49:10 – Choosing the Right Firm & Long-Term Fit 53:30 – Final Advice: Why This Career Is Worth It

n this episode of The Blueprint | FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Mike Zarrelli, CFP®, EA and Alison Miller, CFP® sit down with Patrick Marcinko, CFP® Lead Advisor at Bogert Wealth, to explore what it truly takes to grow into a confident, client-facing financial planner.  Patrick shares how early-career advisors can overcome imposter syndrome through preparation, repetition, and intentional learning. From shadowing experienced advisors to navigating real-life client complexities, this episode highlights the gap between technical knowledge and real-world application—and how to close it. If you're looking to accelerate your development, build credibility with clients, and step confidently into a lead advisor role, this episode delivers practical, experience-driven insights you can apply immediately. What You’ll Learn How to overcome imposter syndrome early in your career Why preparation is the ultimate confidence builder The importance of shadowing and real client exposure How to communicate value and handle client objections Why intentional learning accelerates advisor growth Key Takeaways Confidence is earned through repetition, not shortcuts Financial plans must adapt to real-life uncertainty Great advisors act as educators, not decision-makers Being busy isn’t the same as being effective Patience is a competitive advantage in your career Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction & Patrick’s background 03:30 – Managing a $5M student investment fund 07:00 – Family experiences that shaped his career path 11:00 – When financial plans meet real life 15:00 – Lessons from lead advisors: patience & adaptability 19:30 – Building confidence through reps and preparation 23:00 – Overcoming imposter syndrome 26:45 – Transitioning into business development 30:30 – Handling objections and communicating value 33:45 – Intentional learning vs. “checking the box” 36:00 – Final thoughts on patience and long-term success

In this episode of The Blueprint | FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Mike Zarrelli, CFP® , EA and Alison Miller, CFP® sit down with Lillian Turner, CFP® , RLP® , CSLP® founder of Daring Greatly Wealth and 2026 Chair of the FPA NexGen committee. Lillian shares her path from financial scarcity and an unconventional start in the profession to launching her own firm, developing a life-planning-centered approach, and leading the next generation of financial planners.  This conversation explores what it really takes to build a career in financial planning when the path is not clear, how to identify alignment in your work, and why discomfort often becomes the catalyst for growth. Lillian also outlines her 2026 vision for FPA NexGen, including support for career changers, first-generation financial planners, and aspiring advisors seeking the right fit in the profession. Executive Producer: @Jadah Riley What You’ll Learn How Lillian Turner built her career in financial planning from the ground upWhy alignment matters when choosing a firm or career pathWhat early-career advisors can do to move past imposter syndromeHow entrepreneurship reshaped Lillian’s view of financial planningFPA NexGen’s 2026 priorities for career changers and aspiring planners Key Takeaways Growth often happens when you are pushed beyond your comfort zoneThe right firm fit can shape both confidence and career trajectoryAuthenticity and values can become a true competitive advantageCareer changers and first-generation planners need more visible pathways into the profession Chapters 00:00 Welcome + introducing Lillian Turner 02:05 Wedding planning, spending, and the client experience mindset 06:10 How Lillian found financial planning without a clear roadmap 12:20 Breaking into the industry and navigating early career challenges 19:05 Moving to Arizona, firm culture, and learning what was not aligned 25:10 Becoming a lead advisor unexpectedly and growing through discomfort 29:20 Launching Daring Greatly Wealth and building a life-planning practice 33:05 How Lillian defines alignment, authenticity, and career fit 35:10 Lillian’s 2026 goals as FPA NexGen Chair 37:00 The “ignite” question: what accelerated her career

Season 4 of The Blueprint | FPA NexGen® Podcast kicks off with a powerful theme: Ignite. Hosts Mike Zarrelli, CFP®, EA and Alison Miller, CFP® explore how early-career financial planners can ignite their professional growth by leaning into discomfort, developing their voice, and building community within the profession. In this episode, the team discusses the pivotal habits and mindset shifts that helped accelerate their own careers—from volunteering with the Financial Planning Association (FPA) to creating content, asking uncomfortable questions, and learning how to receive feedback. The conversation dives into the real skills that help financial planners grow faster in their first decade in the profession: confidence, curiosity, consistency, and the courage to put yourself in the room where growth happens. If you’re an emerging advisor navigating the early stages of your financial planning career, this episode provides practical insights you can apply immediately. What You’ll LearnWhy getting uncomfortable early can accelerate your career growthHow FPA involvement and networking can improve client communicationWhy asking questions—even when unsure—builds professional confidenceHow creating content can help advisors develop their unique voiceThe importance of receiving feedback without defensivenessHow discipline and consistency compound over time in advisory careersKey TakeawaysGetting uncomfortable early helps accelerate career growth.Professional community involvement strengthens advisor development.Asking questions builds confidence and deeper understanding.Creating content helps advisors develop their voice.Consistency and discipline compound over a career.Learning to accept feedback accelerates professional growth. Episode Chapters00:00 – Welcome to Season 4 of The Blueprint 02:10 – The theme for this season: Ignite 04:15 – Why listener feedback will shape the season 06:05 – What accelerates a financial planning career? 08:40 – Getting involved with the Financial Planning Association (FPA) 12:05 – How professional communities improve client conversations 16:10 – Asking uncomfortable questions early in your career 20:05 – Building confidence through small career wins 23:10 – Why creating content helps advisors find their voice 26:35 – Developing your own financial planning style 30:10 – The power of discipline and consistency in career growth 32:30 – Why receiving feedback is a critical professional skill

What does it really take to build a meaningful career in financial planning—and why does passion usually show up after the hard work? In this reflective Season 3 finale of The Blueprint | FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Mike Zarrelli, CFP®, EA and Deshawn Peterson, CFP® turn the mic inward. Deshawn shares lessons from two years as a podcast host, exploring how consistency, discipline, and intentional effort compound into professional growth, stronger relationships, and long-term fulfillment. This episode dives into the behind-the-scenes realities of podcasting, career pivots, networking, and the often-overlooked skills that separate good advisors from great ones—like deep listening, focus, and learning to trust the process even when outcomes aren’t guaranteed. Whether you’re an early-career financial planner, a career changer, or someone navigating uncertainty in your professional journey, this conversation delivers timeless insights for building a career with purpose. What You’ll Learn Why passion often follows consistency—not inspiration How discipline beats motivation over the long run The role of listening in leadership and client relationships Lessons for career changers entering financial planning How small, simple habits compound into career success Key Takeaways Passion in your career is often built after consistent effort—not before it Discipline and routine matter more than motivation for long-term success Deep listening is a critical leadership and relationship-building skill Simple, repeatable habits compound into meaningful professional growth Career setbacks and missed opportunities provide valuable feedback when reviewed honestly Early-career advisors benefit from narrowing focus sooner rather than trying to do everything Merging personal values with professional life can create greater clarity and sustainability Episode Chapters 00:00 Why passion is built—not discovered 06:30 The hidden work behind launching and sustaining a podcast 12:45 Developing elite listening skills as a leader 20:10 Building genuine professional relationships 28:40 Discipline, motivation, and finding your “why” 38:15 Career pivots, setbacks, and learning from failure 49:30 Advice for early-career and career-changing advisors 57:00 Final reflections and Season 3 wrap-up