The New Skool

In The New Skool season finale, we break down the core lessons from Season 3 into a practical marketing blueprint rooted in authenticity, clarity, and connection. You’ll learn how to align your internal brand with external messaging, modernize your COI strategy, and turn overlooked tools like client communications and events into growth engines. Whether you're stuck on a plateau or building momentum, this episode is your cheat sheet for marketing that actually works.

Key takeaways:

• Your website and messaging should reflect what it’s actually like to work with you.
• COIs aren't just attorneys—expand to all professionals your ideal client interacts with.
• Client communications and events can create trust, deepen relationships, and generate referrals.

Connect with us: 

• Beverly Flaxington on LinkedIn
• Matt Middleton on LinkedIn
• Rishi Bharathan on LinkedIn
• Candice Carlton on LinkedIn

Want to learn more…

• Visit ficommpartners.com

Since the SEC’s 2023 marketing rule update, client reviews have become a game-changer for financial advisors—fueling both trust and search visibility. In this episode, Rishi Bharathan, CEO of WiserAdvisor, shares why reviews are no longer optional and how even a handful can dramatically improve your SEO and credibility. We dive into how to start collecting reviews strategically, address concerns around negative feedback, and use authentic client voices to build real competitive advantage. Whether you manage $25M or $250M, this conversation will help you rethink organic growth in a review-driven world.

Key takeaways:

• Prospects form up to 90% of their impression before ever speaking with you—your reviews matter.
• Google rewards user-generated content, making reviews a powerful SEO tool.
• A sustainable review strategy starts with a representative client sample and builds trust over time.

Connect with us: 

• Rishi Bharathan on LinkedIn
• WiserAdvisor Website
• Candice Carlton on LinkedIn

Want to learn more…

• Visit ficommpartners.com

Is SEO the silver bullet for growth or just another buzzword?

In this episode, Meg Clarke, CEO of Clapping Dog Media, breaks down what SEO really means for financial advisors and why it’s less about algorithms and more about clarity. We explore how Google’s evolving search landscape now favors content that clearly communicates who you serve and how you help—across platforms like LinkedIn, YouTube, and even TikTok. Meg explains why consistent, authentic content is the real driver of visibility and trust.

Key takeaways:

• SEO today is about clarity, not keywords.
• Your presence across platforms matters more than ever.
• Real results come from consistent, client-centered content.

Connect with us: 

• Meg Clarke on LinkedIn
• Clapping Dog Media
• Candice Carlton on LinkedIn

Want to learn more…

• Visit ficommpartners.com

Tired of hosting client events that feel great but lead nowhere? Micro-events change the game. Create intimate, high-impact experiences tailored to your best clients’ passions that actually deepen engagement and accelerate referrals. 

- Small groups (under 12 people) = deeper connections

- Plan 4-6 months ahead for high-touch engagement

- No sales pitches—just meaningful experiences

From Porsche racing for adrenaline seekers to hands-on pottery for engineers, these curated events create an environment where unsolicited referrals are a natural outcome without awkward asks.

Connect with us: 

• Matt Middleton on LinkedIn
• Future Proof
• Candice Carlton on LinkedIn

Want to learn more…

• Visit ficommpartners.com

Advisors, your prospects are checking you out online before reaching out. Social media isn’t just for trends—it’s a trust builder. 

- Validation – People search you after a referral.

- Client touchpoint – Stay visible between meetings.

- Network growth – Get in front of COIs & ideal prospects.

You don’t need to be everywhere—just where your best clients are. Focus on creating value, engaging meaningfully, and using social as a tool, not a chore. Tune in for other social media marketing tips!

Connect with me: 

• Candice Carlton on LinkedIn

Want to learn more…

• Visit ficommpartners.com

Your website should be your best marketing tool, not a roadblock. In this episode, we reveal why clear messaging beats flashy design and how top firms use SEO, videos, and personalization to turn visitors into clients. Learn the three-second test to see if your site is working and get practical tips to make it a lead-generating machine—whether you manage $500M or $20B in assets.

Listen now and upgrade your digital strategy!

Connect with me: 

• Candice Carlton on LinkedIn

Want to learn more…

• Visit ficommpartners.com

Most COI referral strategies are outdated. In this episode, performance coach Bev Flaxington joins me to break down a more modern approach to COI (Center of Influence) referrals to drive organic growth in your firm. Today’s approach is less about asking for a referral and instead creating an environment where they are a natural outcome. Tune in now to find out more. 

Connect with us: 

• Beverly Flaxington on LinkedIn
• The Collaborative
• Beverly’s Bestselling Books
• Candice Carlton on LinkedIn

Want to learn more…

• Visit ficommpartners.com

When did you last get a compliment on an email you sent to your clients? If it’s been a while, this is the episode for you.

Tune in as Candice shares next-level tips on how to write emails that result in increased engagement and increased referrals!

Connect with me: 

• Candice Carlton on LinkedIn

Want to learn more…

• Visit ficommpartners.com

Discover how to transform your firm's marketing into a tool for genuine connection with high-net-worth clients. Join me as together we uncover the secrets to overcoming growth plateaus by aligning your strategy with your firm’s core mission, values, and ideal client profile. Learn to craft marketing that resonates, reflects your authenticity, and drives meaningful relationships.

Connect with us: 

Candice Carlton on LinkedIn

Want to learn more?

Visit ficommpartners.com

Facing post-pandemic culture challenges, Stacey McKinnon, COO and CMO of Morton Wealth, decided they had to find a "new way." Dedicated to creating fulfillment, driving firm growth and creating an unmatchable client experience, they decided to do just that. It's highly unconventional and it's working.

Embracing the principles of "Brave New Work" her strategy cultivated a vibrant culture of active contributors rather than executors, sparking a remarkable growth. When we learned about her incredible achievements, inviting her to our podcast was a no-brainer. If you're looking to elevate your firm's management style, this episode is for YOU.

Stacey's LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-mckinnon-morton/

Morton Wealth's LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/mortonwealth/

Morton Wealth's Website | https://www.mortonwealth.com/

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