Shawn Ballinger (https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-ballinger-cfp%C2%AE-30834513/) is the Founder of Columbus Street Financial Planning, an Ohio-based, fee-only RIA overseeing $100 M in assets. After two decades advising high-net-worth families, Shawn launched his own firm in 2019 to prove that comprehensive wealth management shouldn’t cost 1 % of a client’s portfolio.

A U.S. Army National Guard veteran and past President of the FPA of Central Ohio, Shawn now serves 75+ households on a complexity-based flat fee—delivering full-spectrum planning without the sticker shock.

In this episode, Chris and Shawn discuss:

1. Scaling from zero clients to $100 M AUM in five years on a flat-fee model

2. Pricing tiers by complexity—and knowing when to raise fees

3. Organic growth through COIs, Kiwanis service, and community outreach

4. Why 50 % of great advising is client education

5. When a solo advisor should hire an intern, paraplanner, or full-time staff

Connect with Shawn:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-ballinger-cfp%C2%AE-30834513/
Website: https://columbusstreetfin.com/
Email: [email protected]

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DISCLAIMER: This content is provided by Chris Brodhead for general information purposes only. It is not an offer to buy or sell any securities or investments. Investing involves risk of loss. Discuss all decisions with a qualified advisor, considering your goals, needs, and risk tolerance.