Overview

He’s built and rebuilt some of the industry’s most successful firms and now he’s helping others do the same. In this episode, Joe Duran, the founder of Rise Growth Partners shares lessons from building, selling, and starting again, and how staying curious and adaptable fuels lasting success.

> Download a transcript of this episode…

NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation.

Joe Duran’s career has always been about reaching new heights—and then helping others climb on their own. A proverbial mountain climber himself, Joe built and sold two of the most successful firms in the RIA space: Centurion Capital and United Capital.

Today, Joe sees himself as a sherpa—guiding the next generation of entrepreneurs through his latest venture, Rise Growth Partners. His story is one of constant reinvention, relentless curiosity, and the humility to keep asking one simple question: “What if I’m wrong?”

Joe first joined us on the show back in 2020, shortly after the sale of United Capital to Goldman Sachs. Now, with the benefit of both hindsight and foresight, Joe revisits that experience and explores the mindset behind building truly world-class firms, including:

Joe also reflects on how the industry can avoid the risk of mega-RIAs repeating the mistakes of the wirehouses.

It’s a candid and thought-provoking conversation about reinvention, leadership, value creation, and what it means to evolve from mountain climber to sherpa from one of the industry’s trailblazers.

Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002.

Why Settle for “Good Enough” When Great is Possible?

Limitless Growth: Building the Business You Want and the Life to Match

Wealth Management Landscape at a Glance

Joe Duran

Joe Duran is a serial entrepreneur and an industry visionary in wealth management and wealthtech.

Early in 2024, Joe and his team launched Rise Growth Partners (‘Rise’), the industry’s first harmonious financial partner. With firsthand experience in building nationally recognized registered investment advisers (RIAs), Rise’s team partners with middle-market RIAs, providing capital and strategic expertise.

Previously, Joe was a Partner at Goldman Sachs, serving as Co-Head of the Workplace and Personal Wealth business. He founded and served as CEO of United Capital, one of the nation’s largest independent wealth management firms, which Goldman Sachs acquired in July 2019. Prior to that, he built and sold Centurion Capital–one of the first turnkey asset management platforms–to General Electric, where he served as President of GE Private Asset Management (now listed as NYSE: AMK).

Joe is the author of three bestselling books on investing and entrepreneurship. He is a sought-after conference and podcast speaker and appears frequently on a broad spectrum of media, ranging from CNBC to Goop.

Joe has MBAs from Columbia University and UC Berkeley, as well as an undergraduate degree from Saint Louis University. He is a CFA Charterholder and a member of the Young President’s Organization (YPO), the world’s largest leadership community of chief executives. A Yogi for decades, he meditates daily and is an avid beach volleyball player.

Joe and his wife Jennifer cherish their three daughters and share a love of frequent travel, dining, dancing and live concerts.

Overview

After more than a decade at Edward Jones, Steve Davis realized he’d outgrown the model. He wanted more control, flexibility, and the ability to serve clients his way. In this episode, Steve shares how he built a lean, focused, and highly efficient independent practice with LPL—and why success isn’t about size, but about designing a business that fits your life.

> Download a transcript of this episode…

NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation.

When we talk about advisors “outgrowing the firm,” it often sounds theoretical. For this episode’s guest, it’s anything but.

After more than a decade at Edward Jones, Steve Davis found himself limited—unable to market his CFP® credential, restricted on hiring, and frustrated by compliance that treated every advisor the same, regardless of experience. The breaking point came when he lost a major client relationship: not because of service, but because he simply couldn’t access the solutions that his client needed inside the Edward Jones model.

That was when it became clear that Steve hadn’t just outgrown Edward Jones; he needed a platform that matched where he wanted to take his practice well into the future.

Today, as the founder of Madison & Elm Wealth Management, an independent practice affiliated with LPL, he runs what he calls a “hyper-efficient, hyper-focused” solo practice. With 60 clients, $60M in assets, and a net payout that well-exceeds that of his time at Edward Jones, he’s proven that independence isn’t just about size: It’s about control, choice, and building a business aligned with your life.

In this episode, Jason Diamond dives into Steve’s story, including:

It’s an honest look at life after the W-2 world and how one advisor built a business that works smarter, not harder, with relevant takeaways for advisors at all levels.

Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002.

Post-Transition Survey: Checking in on Former Edward Jones Advisors Who Recently Moved

The Advisor Transition Playbook: Inside Baseball on Due Diligence, the Move, and Everything In Between

Wealth Management Landscape at a Glance

Steve Davis

Steve Davis is the founder and CEO of Madison & Elm Wealth Management. Steve is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) with over 14 years of experience supporting clients in pursuing their financial goals. He meets with clients in-person or virtually, partnering with them and proactively sharing his expertise in order to help maximize their opportunities. He has the support of a team of professionals at LPL Financial who are specifically equipped to handle the sophisticated needs of higher net worth clients.

As a former Division I athlete, Steve brings the same focus and dedication to his clients that allowed him to excel on the baseball field. Steve grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio before attending Kent State University on an athletic and academic scholarship. After graduating magna cum laude with a degree in finance and entrepreneurship, he spent two years as an equity trader. He has been serving clients nationwide ever since. Steve lives with his wife and three children in the western suburbs of Chicago.

Overview

Supportive independence has become one of the most dynamic segments of wealth management, offering advisors the freedom of independence with the scale and resources of a major firm. In this episode, the CEO of Sanctuary Wealth joins Louis Diamond to discuss Sanctuary 2.0: how the firm doubled in size, its vision for advisor autonomy, and the future of growth, technology, and partnership in the independent space.

> Download a transcript of this episode…

NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation.

Advisors considering independence often wrestle with a key question: “Do I want to go it alone—or have the backing of a platform?”

That question gave rise to the concept of supportive independence—one of the most dynamic corners of the wealth management ecosystem. It bridges the gap between the turnkey structure of the wirehouses and the full autonomy of running your own RIA. The model offers ownership and freedom while surrounding teams with the infrastructure, technology, and expertise to accelerate growth and achieve scale. And it comes with an added advantage: a community built on accessible leadership and shared talent.

It’s in this space that Sanctuary Wealth has carved out its niche. Since its founding, Sanctuary has become a top destination for elite wirehouse teams seeking greater freedom and control—without giving up the benefits of scale.

With CEO Adam Malamed at the helm, the firm has entered what he calls “Sanctuary 2.0”—a new era of growth, innovation, and partnership designed to help advisors not only transition successfully but thrive long after the move.

Building on his experience scaling Ladenburg Thalmann into a multi-billion-dollar enterprise, Adam is now leading Sanctuary into its next chapter with a sharp focus on growth, technology, and long-term sustainability. In just two years, he has helped the firm nearly double in size, expanded its reach through the acquisition of Tru Independence, and solidified its standing as one of the industry’s most compelling platforms for elite advisors.

In this episode, Louis Diamond and Adam discuss:

It’s a candid look at where one of the fastest-growing firms is headed and the value it offers advisors seeking a path to independence.

Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002.

Mindset Shift: Why Advisors are Forgoing a Recruiting Deal and Leaping Right to Independence

Firms That Win in 2025: What Advisors Are Really Looking For

Wealth Management Landscape at a Glance

Alan Malamed 

Adam Malamed is the Chief Executive Officer of Sanctuary Wealth, where he leads the firm’s strategic vision, long-term growth initiatives, and commitment to innovation in the wealth management industry. Since assuming the role in 2023, Adam has focused on building the platform of the future investing in top talent, advanced technology, and scalable growth resources. His mission is to drive value for Sanctuary’s Partner Firms by helping them grow, operate more efficiently and build equity.

Under Adam’s leadership, Sanctuary continues to solidify its position as the premier destination for sophisticated and elite financial advisors and wealth management firms. He oversees the firm’s long-term strategy with an emphasis on business expansion ensuring Sanctuary remains a leader in the Hybrid RIA space.

With over 25 years of experience in financial services, Adam is a seasoned executive, entrepreneur, and board director. Prior to joining Sanctuary, he served as Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, and Board Director at publicly traded Ladenburg Thalmann Financial, where he was instrumental in growing the firm’s revenue from $35 million to $1.5 billion.

Adam earned a B.A. in Business Management from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and completed the General Management Program at Harvard Business School.

Overview

From due diligence to culture fit, client communication to deal evaluation, there’s far more to moving than meets the eye. In this special Industry Update, Jason and Mindy unpack the real playbook behind advisor transitions – the triggers, misconceptions, and timelines – plus lessons from the recent $129B Merrill breakaway that prove why no advisor is “too big” for change.

> Download a transcript of this episode…

NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation.

Everything about a transition can seem incredibly overwhelming.

From understanding “the why’s” of a move, then conducting due diligence, and on to aligning the right models, and selecting the best firms, it might seem like a fairly linear process.

And for some it can be.

But for others, the layers of minutiae can be daunting.

Essentially, it comes down to the adage, “You don’t know what you don’t know.”

In this episode, Jason Diamond is joined by Mindy, to fill in some of those blanks and share some inside baseball on how to get from here to there, including:

Plus, they add context to their advice by drawing from experience gained in the recent $129B Merrill breakaway move.

Essentially, it’s a download of “everything you need to know when considering a move.”

Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002.

The $129B Blockbuster Move: Shirl Penney on Why This Transition Marks a New Era for the Industry

The Missing Narrative of the $129B Merrill Breakaway Story

Transition Announcement: $129B Merrill Team Launches OpenArc Corporate Advisory with Support from Dynasty, Schwab, and Diamond Consultants

Overview

The $129B OpenArc breakaway marks a watershed moment for wealth management. In this Rapid Reaction episode, Louis Diamond and Shirl Penney unpack what it means for the RIA model, advisors, and the future of industry competition.

> Download a transcript of this episode…

NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation.

When the news broke that a team managing $129B in client assets left Merrill to launch OpenArc Corporate Advisory, the headlines focused on the sheer scale of the move—and the ensuing legal firestorm. However, this transition represents even more: a defining moment for the independent wealth management movement and a demonstration of the industry’s evolving landscape.

For years, independence has been steadily chipping away at wirehouse dominance. Yet OpenArc is proof that even the most elite and institutionally focused advisor teams see greater opportunity in starting their own firm.

That’s where Dynasty Financial Partners comes in. Under Shirl Penney’s leadership, Dynasty has become synonymous with enabling large, complex teams to make the leap to independence, providing the scale, capital, and infrastructure needed to compete at the very top of the industry.

And with OpenArc, Dynasty has helped one of the biggest breakaways launch a new enterprise built for the future.

Yet getting the team to this moment was a decade in the making, with Mindy Diamond and Louis Diamond guiding the growing team through an educational journey on an ever-changing landcsape of possibilities.

In this special Rapid Reaction episode, Louis and Shirl offer their perspectives on:

They also highlight key learnings for advisors watching this transition closely—and what it reveals about the next chapter of industry competition.

It’s a rare inside look at a landmark deal in wealth management—and the insights it offers for advisors and firms across the industry.

Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002.

Transition Announcement: $129B Merrill Team Launches OpenArc Corporate Advisory with Support from Dynasty, Schwab, and Diamond Consultants

Transition Announcement: $5.5B UBS Mega-Team Leaves for RBC

Shirl Penney 

Shirl Penney is the founder, CEO, and member of the Board of Directors of Dynasty Financial Partners, one of the leading advocates and platforms for independent wealth advisor firms. Since its launch in 2010, Dynasty has grown to nearly $115B assets under management.

Shirl is recognized throughout the industry for his thought leadership and insight on key trends and issues impacting the rapidly evolving wealth management landscape. Investment News named him to its 2015 list of ‘40 Most Influential People in Wealth Management Under 40,’ as well as to its inaugural list of ‘Icons and Innovators in Wealth Management’ the following year.

In 2019, Dynasty relocated from New York, NY, to St. Petersburg, Florida, and Shirl quickly became a leading voice in the city’s business community, embracing local causes and giving back to organizations serving the area where Dynasty employees live and work. In 2023, he was named ‘Florida Entrepreneur of the Year,’ and in 2024 the Tampa Bay Business Journal selected him for its ‘Power 100 List’ of the area’s most influential business leaders.

Prior to Dynasty, Shirl worked at Citi Smith Barney in various leadership roles including director of private wealth management and head of executive financial services.

Shirl is from Eastport, Maine, and graduated from Bates College. He and his family live in St. Petersburg where they are active in numerous charitable causes focused on education, poverty, ALS, and veteran services. He is a Fellow of the inaugural class of the Finance Leaders Fellowship, a member of the Aspen Global Leadership Network, and a member of the Young President’s Organization of Florida.

Overview

Few advisors build a multi-billion-dollar RIA. John Krambeer has done it twice. In this candid conversation, the Validus Capital CEO reflects on his journey, how independence has evolved, and the hard-won lessons that guide him now.

> Download a transcript of this episode…

NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation.

Some advisors break away once in their careers. John Krambeer has done it twice, each time building a multi-billion-dollar RIA.

That kind of repeated success is rare in any industry—and in wealth management, it’s almost unheard of. Yet John’s journey provides a front-row seat to the evolution of the independent space, from its early pioneering days to the sophisticated and bespoke multi-family office models we see today.

Long before “going independent” became popular, John left Merrill’s Private Banking & Investment Group (PBIG) in 2004 to launch Camden Capital. He was early to the RIA movement, betting on transparency, better reporting, and access to private investments when few advisors dared to break away and forge their own path.

In 2022, John made the difficult decision to leave Camden and do it all over again—this time building Validus Capital, now a $2.5B multi-family office designed with hard-earned lessons in mind.

In this conversation with Louis Diamond, John shares a candid look at:

John runs back the game films to provide candid insights for prospective and current independent business owners. It’s a rare opportunity to learn from someone who not only helped shape the independent space but has proven that with clarity, conviction, and the right people, you can build lasting success more than once.

Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002.

The Best of the Best: 10 Ways Top Advisors Are Growing Their Businesses— A Special Industry Update

Player or Coach? Why Every Advisor Eventually Has to Choose

Wealth Management Landscape at a Glance

John M. Krambeer

John Krambeer is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Validus Capital and has served as a financial advisor to wealthy families and institutional investors for over three decades. Mr. Krambeer has extensive experience providing wealthy families with strategic investment advice, structuring portfolios to meet long-term objectives, and creating private investment vehicles across the alternatives landscape. Mr. Krambeer has spent his career working with both traditional and alternative investment managers, evaluating asset allocation strategies, managing long-term equity portfolios, and implementing options strategies for concentrated stock positions. Mr. Krambeer has been recognized by Barron’s as a Top 100 Independent Wealth Advisor four times and as one of America’s Top Financial Advisors seven times.

Prior to founding Validus Capital, Mr. Krambeer founded Camden Capital in 2004 and served as its Chief Executive Officer and Partner. He led the firm’s investing activities and established its private fund platform. Before forming Camden Capital, Mr. Krambeer spent 16 years at Merrill Lynch, where he helped build the Private Banking and Investment Group.

Mr. Krambeer is a member of the Advisory Board of FrontRange Capital Partners, Saybrook Fund Advisors, NewRoad Capital Partners, and Rosemawr Management. He is active in the community, supporting various philanthropic organizations, including serving as the Founder and President of the Southern California Rodeo Boosters, an organization devoted to helping junior high and high school students competing in the sport of Rodeo with scholarship support as they transition to college. Mr. Krambeer was an inaugural member of the Schwab Institutional Advisory Council for Advisors Turning Independent (ATI) – a sounding board for firms transitioning to independence in the evolving wealth management industry. Mr. Krambeer received a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Woodbury University.

Recognition

Overview

The CEO of Cetera Financial Group shares insights on independence, private equity, and balancing scale with service, plus what the future holds for advisors and firms.

> Download a transcript of this episode…

NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation.

The wealth management industry is at an inflection point—where scale, service, and strategy all collide.

Drawing on 35 years of industry experience and leadership roles at Morgan Stanley, Fidelity, and now Cetera, Mike Durbin offers a unique perspective on the forces shaping the world as we know it.

Since joining Cetera in 2023, Mike’s led the firm through rapid expansion—balancing the resources of a $600B+ national platform with a boutique-level advisor experience. From multi-channel affiliation models to tech and AI integration, his strategy centers on one thing: helping advisors grow faster, smarter, and more sustainably.

In this episode, Jason Diamond and Mike discuss:

Whether you’re an advisor evaluating your options or a leader navigating change, Mike’s candid perspective provides clarity on what it takes to thrive in today’s environment.

Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002.

IBD vs. RIA Revisited: Two Independent Pathways for Advisors to Consider

RIA, IBD or somewhere in between: Which version of independence is right for you?

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice, a recommendation, or an offer to buy or sell any security. Opinions may change without notice. Forward-looking statements, including projections or estimates, are not guarantees. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and all investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

“Cetera Financial Group” refers to the network of independent retail firms encompassing, among others, Cetera Advisors LLC, Cetera Wealth Services LLC (f/k/a Cetera Advisor Networks), Cetera Investment Services LLC (marketed as Cetera Financial Institutions or Cetera Investors), and Cetera Financial Specialists LLC. All firms are members Member FINRA/SIPC.

Mike Durbin

Mike Durbin is chief executive officer of Cetera Financial Group and a member of Cetera’s board of directors. In his role as CEO, he oversees Cetera’s growth initiatives, from expansion into new and adjacent markets to evolving Cetera’s existing capabilities for the financial professionals and financial institutions it serves.

Most recently, Mike was head of Fidelity Institutional, a division of Fidelity Investments offering clearing, custody, investment products, brokerage, and trading services to a wide range of wealth management firms and institutions. In this role, Mike was responsible for supporting the growth of clients’ businesses, enhancing their operational efficiency while delivering insights that help to drive confidence, clarity, and results.

Previously, Mike served as head of Fidelity Institutional Investment and Technology Solutions where he focused on the end-to-end delivery of wealth management products and technology solutions for Fidelity clearing and custody clients. Prior to that role, he served as president of Fidelity Wealth Technologies, where he oversaw Fidelity’s acquisition of eMoney Advisor. He joined Fidelity in February 2009 as president of Fidelity Institutional Wealth Services where he was responsible for the oversight and growth of the business by providing clients access to a flexible, open-technology environment, extensive practice management resources and wealth management investments, and related execution and custody services.

Prior to joining Fidelity, Mike acted as chief operating officer of the National Sales Division for Morgan Stanley’s Global Wealth Management. During his 18-year tenure with Morgan Stanley, he held various leadership positions, including head of Capital Markets, head of International Private Wealth Management and chief strategic and risk officer for the Global Individual Investor Group. Mike joined the firm in 1990, then titled Dean Witter Reynolds, Inc., in the investment banking field. In his initial roles, he was involved with the origination, structuring, and marketing of packaged investments for private client distribution.

Education

Overview

A special mid-year update with Jason and Louis Diamond on deals, transitions, and recruiting trends shaping 2025—and what advisors can expect in the months ahead.

> Download a transcript of this episode…

NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation.

If you’re an advisor wondering what the second half of 2025 might hold, the first six months already tell a compelling story.

From headline-making transitions to evolving deal structures, the pace of movement so far suggests 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive years yet.

That’s why we’re releasing this special mid-year update: to share what the data is telling us about the recruiting landscape as it stands today, and what we expect for the balance of the year.

In this episode, Jason Diamond and Louis Diamond dig into:

Jason and Louis also answer the overarching question: Will the momentum continue?

Whether you’re planning your next move, refining your recruiting strategy, or just keeping a pulse on the competitive landscape, this mid-year update will give you the clarity and context you need—so be sure to listen in.

Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002.

Merrill Advisor Transition Report

The 2025 Annual Report on Transitions and Deals for Financial Advisors – 2024 Activity Data

Wealth Management Landscape At-A-Glance

Overview

Julia Healey, CEO of United Charitable, shares insights on DAFs, their value to clients, and the potential positive impact they can have on an advisor’s business.

> Download a transcript of this episode…

NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation.

This episode serves as both an educational session and a business development strategy around Donor Advised Funds, or DAFs.

You’ve likely heard of them, maybe even worked with one—but chances are, you’re not maximizing their potential.

Because DAFs aren’t just for high net worth and ultra-high net worth clients. And while they offer a philanthropic path for clients’ wealth, the value goes well beyond.

When used correctly, DAFs can help strengthen client relationships, attract new assets, and create a genuine sense of impact and purpose for clients at all wealth levels.

Julia Healey knows this space inside and out. As the CEO of United Charitable, she works with financial advisors and clients every day to unlock the full value of DAFs—not just from a tax and estate planning perspective, but from a relationship and growth perspective, too.

In this episode, we cover:

Whether you’re new to the concept or looking to refine how you present DAFs, this episode offers a practical, insightful take on an often-overlooked tool.

Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002.

Innovative Ways the Best Independent Firms Fuel Growth: A Special Industry Update

The Best of the Best: 10 Ways Top Advisors Are Growing Their Businesses

The Power of the Midyear Gut Check: A Playbook for Clarity and Momentum

Julia Healey

Julia Healey is the Chief Executive Officer of United Charitable, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting philanthropic efforts through donor-advised funds and fiscally sponsored programs. With a background in finance and accounting, she earned a B.S. in Business Administration, an MBA in Finance, and a Nonprofit Management Executive Certificate from Georgetown University.

Though she began her career path in finance, Julia’s direction shifted after witnessing firsthand the inequities in access to education and resources. Inspired to make a difference, she combined her financial expertise with a deep commitment to social impact—ultimately leading her into the nonprofit world.

Overview

Ben Valore-Caplan, founder of Syntrinsic, shares how he built a $2.9B mission-driven RIA to serve foundations, endowments, and values-driven institutions, the evolution of impact and ESG investing, why he sold to IMA Financial Group, and more.

> Download a transcript of this episode…

NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation.

This episode serves as a powerful reminder that the best businesses are built not just on scale, but on intention and alignment with values.

In a landscape where most RIAs are designed to serve wealthy individuals, Ben Valore-Caplan took a different path—one rooted in advising non-profits with a focus on mission and purpose.

After a decade as an educator and nonprofit entrepreneur, Ben entered the wealth management world at UBS’s predecessor Paine Webber. As an institutional consultant, Ben saw an opportunity to become a bridge between the finance and nonprofit sectors. Yet, as he looked more closely at the conflicts embedded in the wirehouse model, he saw a greater opportunity to build something better: an RIA fully aligned with institutional clients’ missions.

So, in 2008, Ben left the wirehouse world to launch Syntrinsic Investment Counsel—an RIA built to serve foundations, endowments, and values-driven institutions. What started as a niche business has since grown into a $2.9B firm, known for its conflict-free model and deep alignment with client missions.

In this conversation with Louis Diamond, Ben shares the story of Syntrinsic’s growth – from launch to sale – including:

Whether you’re focused on growth, purpose, or both, Ben’s story is a valuable reminder that building a great firm isn’t just about scale: It’s about clarity, intention, and doing the work that matters.

Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002.

The Best of the Best: 10 Ways Top Advisors Are Growing Their Businesses— A Special Industry Update

Top Tips for Setting Your Business Up for Success Years Before a Move

Is Scale a Necessary Evil in Wealth Management?

Ben Valore-Caplan

Throughout his career, Ben has built bridges between seemingly disparate groups. Since 2000, he has connected the nonprofit and finance sectors as an investment advisor and strategic partner to foundations, endowments, nonprofit organizations, and the people affiliated with them.

Ben founded Syntrinsic Investment Counsel in 2008 after serving as Senior Vice President of Investments at UBS where he led the BVC Institutional Consulting Group. In 2023, Syntrinsic joined IMA Financial Group to gain efficiency and deepen impact across the country. At Syntrinsic, Ben serves as Co-President where he runs point on several client relationships and co-leads the firm’s long-term strategy. Syntrinsic advises on $2.9 billion in assets across approximately 60 foundations and endowments and a handful of private client households.

Ben also builds bridges through community engagement. In his first career, he was an educator and social entrepreneur. He founded and directed Denver Summerbridge, an academically rigorous educational opportunity program for first generation college bound students that continues to thrive over 30 years later as Breakthrough Kent Denver.

Ben served as an independent trustee, investment committee member, and Vice Chair for Colorado’s $50+ billion Public Employee’s Retirement Association (PERA). He served for several years on the Advisory Committee to the City of Denver’s $5 billion fund. He is on the board and chairs the finance committee of Challenge Foundation and serves on the board and finance committee of Denver Zoo and Conservation Alliance. Ben is a proud member of the Colorado Forum, a nonpartisan organization of community leaders committed to advancing creative, long-term solutions to challenging civic issues. He was selected as the Conscious Business Leader of 2019 by Conscious Company.

Ben earned his BA from Brown University and MBA from the University of Denver. He and his wife, Amie, have four children.