NAIFA's Advisor Today Podcast Series

Peter Wood is an accomplished financial advisor and active member of NAIFA with over a decade of experience in the industry. Starting as a multi-line captive agent, he now co-owns a multi-state firm that spans over 12 states and runs a mastermind coaching program for insurance agents. Apart from insurance, Peter coaches competitive bands and drumlines, matching his passion for mentorship in music with his professional endeavors. As a NAIFA member, he is dedicated to growing membership and inspiring the next generation of financial professionals.

In today's dynamic professional landscape, the power of community can be a game changer for your career. Consider the immense benefits of belonging to an organization that champions your growth and opens doors to industry leaders and experts. What if you could access a wealth of knowledge just by being part of a group?

Peter Wood, an insurance agent, shares how he navigated the complexities of the financial services industry by leveraging the power of mentorship and active involvement in industry associations. He emphasizes the importance of time blocking and maintaining a work-life balance. Highlighting the accessibility to industry giants, Peter illustrates how these connections provide unparalleled learning and growth opportunities. His story underscores the critical role of mentoring and the need for younger professionals to join and rejuvenate the association, ensuring its mission and benefits reach future generations.

In this episode of Advisor Today, co-hosts Chris Gandy and Suzanne Carawan sit down with Peter Wood, an accomplished financial advisor, to talk about leveraging the NAIFA community for growth. Peter shares his background and career journey in financial services, the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance alongside a demanding career, his involvement with NAIFA, and the value of joining NAIFA as a young professional.

Cliff Wilson is an industry veteran and past National President of NAIFA with a wealth of experience, having served in various leadership roles, including building and leading a general agency. With his roots in rural Idaho, he has spent over 50 years in the financial services industry, championing the importance of ethics, education, and advocacy. Cliff has left a lasting legacy mentoring young advisors, demonstrating a deep commitment to the growth and development of professionals in the field. His passion for the industry is evident in his dedication to serving clients, training new agents ethically, and advocating for the financial services sector both locally in Arizona and on a national level.

What makes an organization profoundly influential in its industry? The true measure of its influence extends far beyond its market share or brand recognition. It lies in the legacy it upholds, the commitment to ongoing education it provides, and the vibrant community it nurtures among its members.

Cliff Wilson, an industry veteran, addresses the challenges and opportunities faced by financial advisors today, particularly in the context of evolving industry standards and technological advancements. He stresses how NAIFA has been instrumental in maintaining core values such as ethics and education while adapting to new market demands. He emphasizes the importance of leadership and mentorship in nurturing future advisors, recounting personal experiences guiding emerging professionals like Peter Woods. Cliff's narrative underscores the impact that a supportive network can have on individual career growth and the collective advancement of the industry.

In this episode of Advisor Today, Chris Gandy and Suzanne Carawan sit down with Cliff Wilson, past National President of NAIFA, about the enduring value of professional associations in financial advising. Cliff shares insights into NAIFA's impact and the evolution of the financial services industry, the mentorship culture within NAIFA, the continued relevance of advisors amidst advancing technologies, and the challenges and rewards of leading NAIFA.

Jason Foster is a wealth management advisor who believes in making finance enjoyable, personalized, compassionate, relatable, and realistic. With over 22 years of experience, he has achieved significant milestones, including earning the Rookie of the Year title early in his career and now running an independent practice. Jason serves as President of NAIFA California, demonstrating his dedication to shaping the industry's future. In addition to his financial career, he co-owns a promotional marketing company.

In today's competitive financial landscape, the most successful advisors enhance their skill sets and actively diversify their services to meet their clients' evolving needs. This drive for continuous improvement is not just about personal achievement — it's about creating a lasting impact on their communities and the broader industry. But how do they balance their professional lives while contributing significantly to their community and industry?

Jason Foster, a seasoned financial advisor, delves into how he's significantly impacted the finance world and beyond. He talks candidly about his evolution from multi-line agency work to becoming an independent financial advisor and President of NAIFA California. Jason shares his innovative approaches to marketing, network-building, and the importance of diversifying into investments. He also speaks of his passion for coaching youth soccer, which he parallels with mentorship in the financial world, emphasizing the development and passion that drive success in both arenas.

In this episode of Advisor Today, co-hosts Chris Gandy and Suzanne Carawan sit down with Jason Foster, a wealth management advisor, about shaping success in financial services. Jason shares his career journey, strategies for balancing insurance and investment services, innovative approaches for marketing and prospecting in the financial services industry, and the importance of mentoring and coaching.

Kevin Tostado is a San Diego-based financial advisor and a former film producer with three Emmys. After a 15-year career in the film industry, including directing and producing award-winning documentary Under the Boardwalk: The Monopoly Story, he transitioned to financial services. As a career changer, Kevin brings a unique perspective on consultation, utilizing storytelling and strategic thinking to advise clients. He has received recognition as a 40 Under 40 winner and is now an engaged NAIFA member. With his engineering background, he takes an analytical approach to financial planning and strives to educate clients while advocating for industry best practices.

Transitioning to financial services from an unrelated career presents notable challenges. How does an individual from a distinct professional background establish themselves as a high-performing figure within the insurance and financial services sector? Moreover, can the strategies and insights acquired from a prior industry effectively inform one's approach to financial advising and client relationships?

Kevin Tostado, an esteemed 40 Under 40 award winner, shares his fascinating transition from an award-winning film producer to a financial advisor. He discusses the strategic parallels between the game Monopoly and financial advising, emphasizing the value of education and systematic approaches to client interactions. He shares his strategy for educating clients first and selling second and the role of NAIFA in advocacy. Kevin emphasizes the importance of being client-focused, prioritizing trust-building over immediate sales.

In this episode of Advisor Today, co-hosts Chris Gandy and Suzanne Carawan sit down with Kevin Tostado, financial advisor and former film producer, about his transition from film to financial services. Kevin shares his background in engineering and film and how they influence his approach to financial services, early challenges and strategies in financial services, his unique sales process inspired by filmmaking, and the benefits of joining NAIFA.

Peter Winovich III, a dedicated financial advisor based in Toledo, Ohio, has built a successful national practice primarily serving sports figures and business owners. With 16 years of experience, he transitioned from college football to a career where he tailors holistic plans encompassing estate planning and asset management. A recipient of NAIFA's Four Under 40 National Award, Peter embodies the characteristics of a driven individual in sports and finance, carrying the ethos of hard work, leadership, and accountability into his professional life. Recognizing the impact of financial guidance, he thrives on creating positive changes for his clients and aspires to leave a lasting legacy through his work.

Transitioning from a career in athletics to the financial advisory industry might seem daunting, but it is a reality for many former athletes. As similarly competitive fields, financial advisory presents unique challenges and opportunities for those up to the task. So, what does it take to utilize the skills honed in the field and translate them into success in the financial world?

Peter Winovich III, a celebrated financial advisor, shares his journey from collegiate football to becoming a recognized figure in the financial services industry. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships, a lesson learned from sports, which has been instrumental in his ability to serve clients effectively. Peter highlights the critical role of mentors in his transition from athlete to advisor, underscoring the value of seeking guidance from those familiar with the rigors of sports. He also reflects on the integral role of stress in sports and financial advising as a catalyst for growth rather than an impediment.

In this episode of Advisor Today, co-hosts Chris Gandy and Suzanne Carawan sit down with Peter Winovich III, a dedicated financial advisor, about the intersection of sportsmanship and financial advising. Peter discusses the transition from college football to a successful career in finance, sports lessons people can leverage in the business world, and his approach to building trust with clients and overcoming early career stress.

Amanda Brewton is a seasoned Medicare expert with over 17 years in the industry. Opening her agency five years ago, she now oversees approximately 500 agents across 40 states and hosts two national conferences designed to empower and educate professionals in her field. Amanda is passionate about advocacy for seniors, ensuring they don't have to choose between essential needs due to Medicare complexities. Her innovative approach involves using themed training to enhance engagement and creating supportive communities for independent insurance agents.

As financial advisors, it's essential to stay informed about the upcoming Medicare changes that will impact millions of people across all industries. Advisors' engagement and advocacy in this space are pivotal for positively influencing the policies governing this vital healthcare coverage. So, how can they make a meaningful impact in shaping the future of Medicare for the better?

Amanda Brewton, an expert in the Medicare industry, shares her dynamic approach to navigating and impacting the healthcare insurance world. She unravels industry complexities and sheds light on the profound changes set to take place by 2025, emphasizing the importance of financial advisors diversifying their understanding of Medicare, regardless of specialty. Amanda advocates for agents' involvement in policy discussions and highlights how they can use their voices constructively. Through her personal anecdotes and professional journey, she illustrates the power of expert knowledge and thematic education in transforming client experiences and building industry communities.

In this episode of Advisor Today, co-hosts Chris Gandy and Suzanne Carawan sit down with Amanda Brewton, a seasoned Medicare expert, to talk about making a difference in the Medicare landscape. Amanda shares her inspiration that led her to become an industry leader, why financial advisors in all sectors need to understand Medicare's role in financial security, and how NAIFA members and the larger agent community can contribute to Medicare advocacy.

Chris Roper is a seasoned financial advisor who is passionate about helping individuals navigate their financial journeys as a fiduciary and an educator. With over 14 years in the industry, he specializes in 401K advising and personal finance management for high-net-worth individuals. Beyond his professional endeavors, Chris harbors a love for travel, seeking experiences and lessons to bring back to his practice. His approach to business is characterized by his servant leadership, collaborative spirit, and personal goal to help over a million people. Chris has been honored as one of the National Four Under 40 by Advisor Today, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the financial advising industry.

Are you passionate about helping people achieve financial success and lead a life of adventure and continuous learning? Imagine the impact of guiding over a million individuals to thrive in their financial lives. What is required to realize this vision and embark on such a rewarding journey?

Financial advisor Chris Roper delves into the ingredients of a successful career in financial services, emphasizing the significance of passion, perseverance, and seizing the right opportunities. He reflects on his journey from arduous beginnings in the industry to attaining prestigious recognition as an Advisor Today National Four Under 40 recipient. Chris imparts valuable insights on the importance of striking a harmonious balance between a robust work ethic and self-care while underscoring the pivotal role of mentors in personal and professional development. Furthermore, he offers guidance to young advisors on navigating the complexities of the industry and expresses a strong commitment to collaboration for the collective advancement of clients.

In this episode of Advisor Today, Chris Gandy and Suzanne Carawan sit down with Chris Roper, a seasoned financial advisor, about his journey and success in the financial advising world. Chris discusses how his early struggles forged a resilient financial advising career, the segmentation of his practice, why current financial advisors should consider acquiring practices as a growth strategy, and strategies for maintaining work-life balance.

Padric Scott is a former professional football player who transitioned into wealth management. With a background in science and plans to become a neurosurgeon, he channeled his discipline and strategic thinking into financial services instead. Six years into his new career, Padric has achieved impressive accolades, including MDRT's Top of the Table and earning a spot on Forbes' list of best-in-state financial security professionals. Passionate about giving back, he serves on various boards and is committed to enhancing financial literacy and community support.

What does it take to pivot from one career to become a top-performing financial advisor in another? There are many overlapping skills and disciplines that can be applied to financial advising. How can you broaden your horizons and excel as a financial advisor?

Having transitioned from the NFL to financial services, Padric Scott leveraged a service-oriented mindset and self-discipline from the field to build a customer-focused financial advising practice. When making a career transition into financial advising, he emphasizes the importance of repetition and strategic relationship building. Padric also recommends connecting with industry leaders, mentoring others once you've established yourself, and engaging in your community, stating that these factors have been instrumental in his ascent in the field.

In this episode of Advisor Today, Chris Gandy and Suzanne Carawan sit down with Padric Scott to talk about his transition from professional sports to financial advising. Padric discusses his pivot from football to financial advising, the role science and pattern recognition play in the finance industry, the value of harnessing sports discipline and fundamentals in financial practices, and strategies for effective communication and client engagement in wealth management.

Doug Massey has 40 years of experience in the financial industry, specializing in retirement planning and life insurance. A dedicated NAIFA member since 1987, he has served as president of his local association and NAIFA Texas. Doug actively participated in the IFAPAC committee and recently played a crucial role in NAIFA's stand against the Department of Labor's fiduciary rule proposal. As NAIFA's President-Elect for 2025, he is committed to advancing the organization's influence and protecting advisors' interests.

Regulations aim to protect, but there comes a point when they may encroach on professional autonomy and service delivery. When proposed changes to the fiduciary rule jeopardize an entire industry, what are the next steps? How can associations make a difference and safeguard their members' interests against regulatory overreach?

Seasoned financial advisor Doug Massey delves into NAIFA's proactive measures to confront the Department of Labor's proposed fiduciary rule — a move that could transform the landscape of financial advising. The rule can significantly impact advisors' practices, particularly within retirement planning and life insurance. With a steadfast commitment to the industry and a strong belief in NAIFA's advocacy, Doug recounts the internal workings of the legal challenge, highlighting the need for advisors to advocate and contribute to the industry's defense against restrictive regulations.

In this episode of Advisor Today, Chris Gandy and Suzanne Carawan sit down with Doug Massey, a financial services expert, to talk about protecting financial advisors from overreaching regulations. Doug discusses how the DOL fiduciary rule may reshape the financial service landscape, NAIFA's opposition to the DOL's proposal, and why NAIFA members need to share their voices and engage politically.

Walter Bond is a former NBA professional who has successfully transitioned into a Hall of Fame motivational speaker and business accelerator. Starting his journey in the competitive world of professional basketball, he learned the value of mindset, support, and discipline. Walter is known for his Shark Mindset Selling training, which helps people become top performers in their respective fields. With a heart for mentoring and a belief in the power of support, he advises corporate leaders and coaches them toward radical growth, sustained culture, and business transformation.

In the fiercely competitive business world, attaining top-tier performance as an advisor in your industry presents a formidable challenge. Nevertheless, you can achieve success with a resilient mindset, unwavering support, and a commitment to perpetual skill enhancement.

Walter Bond, a former NBA player turned motivational speaker, exhibited sheer determination and discipline both on the court and on stage. He emphasizes the crucial role of support systems in achieving peak performance and underscores the profound impact of organizations like NAIFA in shaping careers in financial advising. Walter stresses the significance of mindset, skill set, reciprocal mentorship, and continuous improvement, drawing from the drive and resilience that propelled him to success.

In this episode of Advisor Today, Chris Gandy and Suzanne Carawan sit down with Walter Bond, a Hall of Fame motivational speaker, about his path from sports to motivational speaking. Walter shares his professional journey and the importance of being supported and connected through associations like NAIFA, his mindset and skill sets for high performance, and why NAIFA members should step up, mentor others, and strengthen the association.