Early-career advisors often ask: How do I grow faster without burning out?

In this Blueprint | FPA Nex Gen episode, Haley Ellis, CFP® and Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor, joins hosts Mike Zarrelli, CFP®, and Deshawn Peterson, CFP®, to share how she successfully transitioned from a client-facing financial planner to Director of Operations (and on track for COO) after her firm doubled in size. She unpacks building workflows from scratch, leading through a merger, advocating for your role, and why community—FPA chapters and mastermind groups—accelerates growth. You’ll learn:* How to spot (and claim) an operations leadership opportunity in a small RIA* The first processes to build when a firm scales or merges* What makes a mastermind group actually stick (commitment + accountability)* When a niche helps marketing—and when it doesn’t define your whole book* Designations vs. real client reps: where to invest your early-career energyQuote to remember: “Growth happens at the edge of your comfort zone—but confidence comes from counting your small wins.”If this helped you, follow the show and leave a rating so more Next Gen planners can find it.Chapters 00:00 Intro & Haley’s move to NC 04:10 From planner to Director of Operations 09:45 Doubling the firm wins & challenges 14:20 Advocating for your role (without the imposter spiral) 19:30 FPA community & leadership reps 24:15 Mastermind groups that stick 29:10 Designations: CFP®, CPFA & what matters early 34:40 Niches (dentists, 401(k)s) — marketing vs. reality 40:05 Showing up in the “big room” with confidence 45:10 Third space, burnout, and recharging 48:30 Haley’s superpower & close If you’re new hereSubscribe for candid, practice-building conversations for Next Gen financial planners. Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway—what process will you build first?

From Orlando’s FPA NextGen Gathering 2025, CFP® professionals Deshawn Peterson, Alison Miller, and Mike Zarrelli capture the stories, lessons, and energy of this year’s event. This milestone year marks the 25th anniversary of FPA, and the energy at Gathering has never been stronger. In this special episode of The Blueprint: An FPA NextGen Podcast, we bring you conversations with attendees ranging from first-timers to industry veterans who’ve built multi-decade careers.From stories of career changers breaking into financial planning, to seasoned leaders reflecting on mentorship and succession, this episode captures what makes Gathering unique: community, connection, and the in-between conversations that spark lifelong friendships and professional growth.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:* ???? Why “making the handshakes” is the unofficial theme of Gathering 2025.* ???? Stories from new professionals finding their footing in financial planning.* ???? Insights from a 38-year industry veteran on mentorship, retention, and legacy.* ???? How career changers bring valuable skills from sales, engineering, and beyond.* ⚡ The energy of first-time attendees and the motivation veterans bring back year after year.Whether you’re a student, early-career advisor, or established CFP® professional, this episode is packed with inspiration and real stories that remind us why Gathering is the heartbeat of the NexGen community.Episode Highlights:* Connection and community: why the conversations between sessions often matter most.* Building resilience: one advisor’s 20-year journey to finally earning the CFP® marks.* Fresh energy: how students and new grads are shaping the profession’s future.* Legacy and leadership: passing the torch through mentorship and firm culture.Resources & Links: ???? Learn more about FPA NexGen: https://www.financialplanningassociation.org/networking/fpa-nexgen (https://www.financialplanningassociation.org/networking/fpa-nexgen) ???? Stay connected on the FPA NexGen LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fpa-nexgen/ (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fpa-nexgen/)

Season 3 of The Blueprint & FPA NexGen® Podcast launches with fresh energy, new voices, and a stronger focus on the next generation of financial planners. Hosts Deshawn Peterson and Mike Zarrelli are joined by new co-hosts Alison Miller, CFP®, and executive producer Jadah Riley, expanding the conversation and perspectives shaping the future of our profession.Alison, a Wealth Advisor and second-generation planner, shares her unique career path—how she went from considering dentistry to finding her calling in financial planning. She discusses the mentors and FPA community support that guided her decision to pursue the CFP® designation.Jadah, a floating Associate Wealth Advisor and career-changer, opens up about navigating imposter syndrome, the discomfort of starting over, and how leaning into mentorship and the NexGen community helped her build confidence and direction in the field.This episode is a must-listen for early-career financial advisors and career changers looking for real stories of resilience, mentorship, and growth. The discussion covers:* Why mentorship and community are essential in the first five years of your career* How to embrace discomfort and imposter syndrome as signs of growth* The role of emotional intelligence in building client trust and long-term success* Why there’s no single “right” path to becoming a successful financial plannerWith new voices behind the mic, Season 3 will spotlight diverse journeys, personal growth, and the skills that define successful next-gen advisors.

In this episode of The Blueprint: An FPA NexGen® Podcast, we sit down with Caleb Brown, CFP®, CEO of New Planner Recruiting, practicing financial advisor, and adjunct faculty at the University of Georgia.Caleb shares his unique journey from struggling new grad to becoming a leader in placing next-generation talent at fee-only RIAs.We cover:* How Caleb balances three careers at once* Why the CFP® designation remains the gold standard* Common mistakes job seekers and firm owners make during hiring* What candidates should really look for in a first job (hint: it’s not just salary!)* The evolving career paths in financial planning and why the RIA channel continues to growWhether you’re a student, career changer, or firm owner, this episode is packed with insights on career growth, practice management, and building a meaningful career in financial planning.Connect with Caleb: New Planner Recruiting | New Planner PodcastListen in and get practical takeaways for your career in financial planning!

In this episode of The Blueprint: An FPA NexGen® Podcast, we sit down with Dominic Monk, CFP®, CIMA®, and partner at The Hedley Hoeger Group at Baird.Dominic shares his journey from growing up without financial stability to becoming a leader in wealth management—and why he always knew he wanted to be a financial advisor.We dive into:* His early start in financial planning through Ohio University’s CFP® program* The power of mentorship and intentional career planning* His transition from client assistant to partner* How his team integrates advanced planning and life coaching to serve high-net-worth families* Why designations like the CFP®, CIMA®, and CPWA® have helped build confidence and credibility* The reality of partnership—beyond the titleIf you're thinking about ownership, building multi-generational relationships, or bringing more meaning to your planning process, this one’s for you.

In this episode, we’re joined by Landon Warmund, CFP®, CSLP® and 2025 FPA NexGen Chair.Landon shares his journey from Kansas State student to building his own independent financial planning practice, with a focus on serving school district employees and navigating student loan planning. He discusses the early challenges of growing a book of business, including grassroots marketing, direct mail, and client education.Landon also highlights his passion for developing student communities and broadening access to financial planning at schools without CFP® programs. He talks about the importance of being intentional with your time, leaning on your network, and creating space for balance through routines and personal interests like his local running club.His commitment to thoughtful planning comes through clearly in this wide-ranging conversation.

On this episode of The Blueprint, hosts Deshawn Peterson and Mike Zarrelli sit down with Colin Day, CFP®, a Financial Planner at Mercer Advisors and active FPA leader. Colin opens up about his journey from working in banking to becoming a nationally recognized voice in the financial planning profession.He shares his experiences navigating burnout, finding the courage to pivot, and discovering the power of vulnerability in both leadership and life.Colin also discusses his role within FPA, his advocacy for mental health in the profession, and the importance of making room for authenticity in an industry that often favors polish over realness.Whether you're a new planner figuring out your path or a veteran rethinking what success looks like, Colin’s story is a refreshing reminder that growth begins when you start showing up as yourself.

In this episode of The Blueprint, hosts Deshawn Peterson and Mike Zarrelli sit down with Paul Gaudio, CFP®, a client advisor at Crestwood Advisors and NexGen Chair of FPA New England.Paul opens up about his early skepticism toward designations like the CFP®, how industry involvement shaped his career, and why taking out the trash at his first job helped him stand out. He shares reflections from FPA's Gathering, discusses the power of mentorship, and explores how staying “comfortably uncomfortable” fuels growth.Plus, Paul talks about running marathons, prioritizing wellness, and building authentic connections in an industry that often defaults to networking over drinks.Whether you're a student, a new planner, or someone looking to lead with purpose, Paul’s story is a reminder to stay curious, stay committed, and keep running toward the next big thing.

In this episode, hosts Deshawn Peterson and Mike Zarrelli sit down with Victoria O’Tool, a finance major and President of the FPA student chapter at the University of Alabama. Victoria shares her inspiring journey from being a self-described introvert to becoming a bold student leader and advocate for financial planning.She discusses how solo travel and public speaking pushed her outside her comfort zone and into a growth mindset. Victoria details how she revitalized her FPA chapter—growing it from 15 members to 88 paid members in under a year—through strategic marketing, digital signage, speaker events, firm visits, and a robust mentorship program.Victoria also opens up about her personal path to discovering financial planning through early conversations with her father, a military upbringing, and her relentless drive to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives. Her story illustrates the power of taking initiative, seeking mentorship, and embracing discomfort as a catalyst for personal and professional growth.

In this episode of The Blueprint: An FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Mike Zarrelli and Deshawn Peterson sit down with Noah Gay, Associate Advisor at Savant Wealth Management, to explore what it really looks like to launch a career in financial planning in 2025.Noah shares his transition from a small-town community college student to a University of Illinois graduate, emphasizing the pivotal role mentorship played in discovering the financial planning profession. He reflects on the often-overlooked human side of the job—behavioral coaching, emotional support, and becoming a trusted resource for clients through life’s ups and downs.Beyond the desk, Noah talks about how powerlifting with his wife helps him stay grounded and recharge during busy seasons, especially while preparing for the CFP® exam. His insights into time management, burnout prevention, and defining success on your own terms offer valuable takeaways for any next-gen advisor navigating the early stages of their career.

In this episode of The Blueprint: An FPA NexGen® Podcast, Mike and Deshawn sit down with Hannah Moore, CFP®, founder of Amplified Planning and creator of The Externship.Hannah shares her journey, professional challenges, and the purpose behind her work.You’ll hear about:* How simple client conversations can have transformational impact* Building scalable systems without losing human connection* The burnout moment that changed everything* Why the first five years in this profession matter most — and how we can do betterWhether you're looking to grow in your career, expand your impact, or support the next generation of planners, Hannah's story will leave you inspired.Learn more about The Externship below: amplifiedplanning.com/externship#FPA #NextGen #FinancialPlanning #CareerJourney #FinancialWellness #TheBlueprintPodcast

In this episode of The Blueprint, hosts Mike Zarrelli and Deshawn Peterson sit down with Gloria Garcia-Cisneros, CFP®, a Wealth Manager at LourdMurray, to discuss her journey as a first-generation professional in the financial planning industry.Gloria shares how her personal experiences shaped her career, from navigating personal finance as a first generation immigrant to becoming a CFP®. She opens up about overcoming imposter syndrome, building confidence, and finding mentorship in a male-dominated industry. She also breaks down her career transitions across different-sized firms, the importance of social capital in professional growth, and how young advisors can advocate for themselves.

In this episode of The Blueprint: An FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Deshawn Peterson and Mike Zarrelli sit down with Alayna Woodall and Adam Taylor, two Virginia Tech seniors majoring in financial planning. They discuss their journey into the profession, their experiences with Virginia Tech’s Financial Planning program, and the mentorship and networking opportunities that helped shape their career paths. The conversation also dives into CFP exam prep, job hunting, internships, and the value of FPA Next Gen involvement. Ultimately, the episode takes an exciting turn where Alayna and Adam interview Mike and Deshawn with pressing questions from a student's perspective.

Financial Planning with Odaro – A Different Kind of Mix In this episode, we dive into the world of financial planning with Odaro Aisueni, a financial professional by day and DJ by night. Odaro shares his journey into financial planning, the importance of building wealth early, and how he helps clients navigate their financial futures. From budgeting and investing to long-term wealth strategies, we discuss the mindset shifts needed to achieve financial success. Tune in for an engaging conversation that blends financial wisdom with real-world insights, offering valuable takeaways for anyone looking to improve their financial well-being.

In today's episode of The Blueprint, we sit down with Cody Garrett, CFP®, a career changer whose journey from music to financial planning is spectacular to hear. Cody shares his insights on the transformative power of giving without expecting in return, drawing from one of his favorite books: The Go-Giver by Bob Burg. We dive into his passion for music—ranging from Motown gospel to big band jazz—and explore how these influences shape his personal and professional life. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about kindness, authenticity, and the rhythms that inspire Cody’s approach to life and financial planning.

In this episode of The Blueprint: An FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Deshawn Peterson and Mike Zarrelli are joined by Julie Johnson and Jack Heintzelman, two financial professionals passionate about fostering the next generation of advisors. The conversation delves into the importance of advocating for oneself, cultivating next-gen talent, and bridging the gap between seasoned professionals and emerging advisors. Julie shares her experiences as a former advisor turned coach, emphasizing the value of curiosity and collaboration in leadership. Jack recounts his journey into financial planning, highlighting how mentorship, continuous learning, and relationship-building have been crucial in his career development. Together, they explore strategies for firms to support young talent and the critical role of trust in client relationships.Key themes include:* The evolving landscape of financial advising.* Building pathways for young professionals.* The impact of mentorship and continuous professional growth.

In this episode of The Blueprint: An FPA NexGen® Podcast, hosts Deshawn Peterson and Mike Zarrelli sit down with Colin Overweg, founder and CEO of Advize Wealth Management, to explore his journey from insurance sales to establishing a successful independent advisory firm. Colin shares how his frustrations with outdated financial industry practices and clunky brokerage systems inspired him to launch a client-centric, technology-forward wealth management service.Colin offers a candid look at the challenges he faced, including cashing out his 401(k) and moving back in with his parents to reduce costs as he built his firm from the ground up. He dives into his innovative flat-fee model, designed for high-income young professionals, and reflects on the unique difficulties of balancing client relationships with business operations.Colin also discusses the power of content creation, sharing how platforms like TikTok have helped him connect with new clients and expand his reach. Looking forward, he's excited about the potential of online courses and other scalable services to make financial planning accessible to more people. Colin wraps up the episode with valuable advice for aspiring financial planners: follow your curiosity, stay authentic, and never stop learning.

In this episode of The Blueprint, Deshawn Peterson and Mike Zarrelli chat with Kimberly Mamaril of Los Olas Capital Advisors about her career journey and lessons learned along the way. Kim highlights the importance of betting on yourself, especially when you consider that others are betting on you as well. She discusses her vision to elevate the financial planning profession to the level of doctors and lawyers, pushing the industry upward. Kim also opens up about her personal story, including how she passed the CFP® exam only to be let go from her firm the next day, proving that career paths aren't always linear—but believing in yourself can pave the way for future success.

In this episode of The BluePrint: An FPA NexGen® Podcast, we’re excited to have Blake Pinyan, CFP®, EA, and 2024 President of FPA NexGen, as our guest. As a financial planner at Anchor Bay Capital and a dedicated leader in the NexGen community, Blake offers a unique blend of professional expertise and a passion for fostering growth in the financial planning profession.Blake shares his journey, insights into his leadership vision for FPA NexGen, and what it means to create meaningful change in the industry. He also encourages listeners to take bold steps, offering the key message of putting yourself out there. You don't have to have all the answers. Growth comes from stepping into opportunities, embracing challenges, and learning as you go.Whether you’re an emerging planner or a seasoned professional, this episode is full of actionable advice on leadership, growth, and making an impact in the financial planning space. Don’t miss it!