Best Commonwealth Partners Podcasts (2025)

1
You Don't Know What You Don't Know: A Recap From IGNITE 2025 39:53

4d ago39:53

39:53

Other highlights include: -Why financial advisors need to become lifelong students of the industry. -How deeper data strategies are revolutionizing business growth - and why most firms are still missing the mark. -The exciting plans to open next year's IGNITE Conference to financial advisors for the first time. -Why marketing, branding, and persona…

1
Data-Driven Growth for Advisors 39:46

5d ago39:46

39:46

Key takeaways from today’s episode include: -How to identify the right metrics that drive better lead generation and client conversions. -The value of internal and external Net Promoter Scores for client retention and operational insight. -Why small firms need to think like big ones - and build systems that scale. -How to future-proof your business…

1
Raymond James at IGNITE: A Live Conversation on Firm Culture and Advisor Choice 52:08

13d ago52:08

52:08

In this live edition of Advisor Talk, recorded on the floor at IGNITE, Elite Consulting Partners CEO Frank LaRosa sits down with Senior Vice President-Head of Advisor Recruiting Consulting at Raymond James, Joseph Pellegrini, for a conversation centered on what truly sets the firm apart - choice, culture, and advisor autonomy.Whether W-2 or 1099, R…

1
Ameriprise at IGNITE: A Live Conversation on Empowering Advisors and Driving Change 40:59

13d ago40:59

40:59

On Day 2 of Advisor Talk live from IGNITE, Frank LaRosa is joined by Brian Mora, Senior Vice President at Ameriprise, for a powerful conversation on leadership, advisor growth, and the evolving expectations in today's wealth management landscape.From creating meaningful advisor experiences to staying agile in a fast-moving industry, Brian shares hi…

1
Steward Partners at IGNITE: A Live Conversation on Leadership and Growth 34:50

14d ago34:50

34:50

In this special live edition of Advisor Talk, recorded on Day 1 of IGNITE, Elite Consulting Partners CEO Frank LaRosa sits down with top voices in the industry to discuss the energy, innovation, and big ideas shaping the future of wealth management.Tune in for real-time insights from the floor, including advisor trends, firm culture highlights, and…

1
200th Episode Special: The Future of Independence with LPL CEO Rich Steinmeier 52:00

20d ago52:00

52:00

Topics covered include: Rich’s path to the CEO role and his early vision for the future of LPL. The evolution of affiliation models - from 1099 to W-2 and beyond. Why independence isn’t just a structure - it’s a mindset. LPL’s take on private equity’s role in the industry and the cautionary tale it presents. How LPL is helping advisors monetize the…

1
The Real Impact of Industry Consolidation 21:04

21d ago21:04

21:04

In this episode, they unpack: Why advisor choice is shrinking - and what that means for your future How OSJ’s and producer group models are more relevant than ever The cultural disconnect between firm leadership and field teams Why the RIA space is no longer the “wild west” and is closing the gap with IBDs How consolidation is forcing advisors to r…

1
HOT MIC - LPL Acquires Commonwealth: What Advisors Need to Know - Part 2 10:55

25d ago10:55

10:55

In this episode, Frank breaks it all down: -Why the $90M SEC penalty wasn’t actually dismissed – and what a “reprieve” really means -The financial and emotional toll of multi-year legal battles (even when you ‘win’) -How thin margins and legal pressure can force even well-run firms into tough decisions -The cultural clash that may lie ahead between…

1
The Truth Behind Transition Deals 22:02

27d ago22:02

22:02

Topics covered include: Why comparing payout percentages rarely tells the full story. How custom pro formas cut through the noise and reveal the real net numbers. The top mistakes advisors make when analyzing firm economics. How a $100K difference can shrink fast when you factor in headcount, taxes, and firm fees. What actually moves the needle in …

1
US firm unveils 350MW stellarator design; CFS hits key machine construction milestone; Marvel Fusion secures €113 million; Germany plans 1 GW fusion facility; Thea Energy simplifies fusion 11:04

28d ago11:04

11:04

Dr. Cyd Cowley, working at the intersection of fusion and AI at FIA affiliate member digiLab, gives today's global fusion news update. Links to all of the stories mentioned are included below. 1. US firm unveils world’s largest 350MW stellarator fusion power design basishttps://interestingengineering.com/energy/us-stellarator-fusion-power-design-ba…

1
HOT MIC - LPL Acquires Commonwealth: What Advisors Need to Know 15:50

30d ago15:50

15:50

Show highlights include: -The ripple effects of a $90M SEC fine and how it may have triggered this acquisition -The unintended consequences advisors face when their firm’s actions force them into quick decisions -How consolidation is impacting advisor choice and independence -Why now is the time to be selfish - and strategic - when it comes to your…

1
Understanding the Process of Finding a New Firm 25:19

1M ago25:19

25:19

Topics covered include: Why more conversations don’t always mean more clarity. How to know when it’s time to stop looking and start deciding. The role a strategic consultant plays in simplifying the firm selection process. What really differentiates firms beyond compensation and tech. The mindset shift needed to find your “forever firm.” If you’re …

1
Scaling your Practice with the Right CRM Strategy 1:00:23

1M ago1:00:23

1:00:23

Key takeaways from today’s episode include: The seven essential factors advisors should consider when evaluating CRM platforms. Why Redtail and Wealthbox are popular choices - but may not be scalable for growing firms. How Salesforce offers unmatched customization, automation, and AI-driven insights. The power of integration: How a well-structured …

1
UKAEA and Eni unite for worlds largest fusion fuel facility; US to test 'fusion blanket'; General Fusion's first plasma in cutting edge fusion machine; Virginia governor urges US fusion development 9:47

1M ago9:47

9:47

Kyra Jorgensen, working at FIA member Helion, gives today's global fusion news update. Links to all of the stories mentioned are included below. 1.UKAEA and Eni Unite to Construct the World's Largest Fusion Fuel Facility https://www.sustainabletimes.co.uk/post/ukaea-and-eni-unite-to-construct-the-world-s-largest-fusion-fuel-facility 2. US to test c…

1
Overwhelmed as a Business Owner? Smart Strategies for Advisors 16:24

2M ago16:24

16:24

Frank breaks down two key strategies to help advisors regain their passion while maintaining a thriving business: Rolling up into a larger RIA to offload operational responsibilities while maintaining client relationships. Building the right internal team by hiring specialists to handle compliance, HR, finance, and other business functions so you c…

1
The Power of Automation: 3 Strategies to Streamline Your Practice 37:52

2M ago37:52

37:52

Frank and Sue break down three essential automation strategies that every advisor should implement: How to streamline client onboarding with automated workflows to save time and reduce human error. Using automated tracking and email alerts to ensure clients take required minimum distributions on time. Automating tax document distribution to improve…

1
Proxima Fusion publishes plans for fusion power plant, WEST machine beats world record, Fusion doctoral trainings to begin this fall in the UK 9:22

2M ago9:22

9:22

Dr. Cyd Cowley, working at the intersection of fusion and AI at FIA affiliate member digiLab, gives today's global fusion news update. Links to all of the stories mentioned are included below.1. German Startup Publishes Open-Source Plans for Fusion Power Planthttps://www.wsj.com/articles/german-startup-publishes-open-source-plans-for-nuclear-fusion…

1
The Entrepreneurial Mindset Advisors Need to Win 56:01

2M ago56:01

56:01

Topics covered include: - How to attract ideal clients by providing meaningful, actionable content. - The systems top entrepreneurs use to generate revenue (and why advisors should pay attention). - Why focusing on the right tasks can dramatically improve growth. - How patience and strategic decision-making lead to sustainable success. - The key to…

1
Adapting to Change: Essential Strategies for Advisor Success 37:32

2M ago37:32

37:32

Today’s show highlights include: What quickly growing advisors are doing differently that separates them from their peers. Why advisors who utilize their firm's resources the most, consistently provide a higher level of service to their clients. What Scott Curtis’s promotion to Chief Operating Officer of Raymond James Financial means for advisors w…

1
Retired coal plant to become fusion facility, shared-flow-stabilized z pinches for stable thermal fusion, CNL expands clean energy siting to include fusion 8:22

2M ago8:22

8:22

Mechanical design engineer Jasmine Mund gives this week's global fusion news update, summarizing behind all of the major headlines. Links to all of the stories mentioned are included below. 1. A retired coal plant to become a 350MW stellarator fusion power facilityhttps://www.world-nuclear-news.org/articles/tva-signs-up-for-type-one-energy-fusion-p…

1
The Most Common Transition Fears - and How to Beat Them 36:51

3M ago36:51

36:51

Key takeaways from today’s episode include: Why timing is never truly perfect, and how planning ahead makes all the difference. How to streamline the workload of transitioning and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Why fears of losing clients or revenue are often overestimated and how proper preparation ensures success. The importance of focusing on the lo…

1
M&A in 2025: What Every Advisor Needs to Know 37:28

3M ago37:28

37:28

Key takeaways from today’s episode include: Why 2024 was a blockbuster year for M&A, with over 300 major transactions - and why that number doesn’t even scratch the surface of the full deal flow. The increasing role of private equity in the advisory space and how it’s reshaping competition, valuations, and acquisition strategies. The biggest mistak…

1
Helion raises $425m for fusion machine, UKAEA invests £200m in fusion development, SMART tokamak advancement 10:00

3M ago10:00

10:00

Jeff Peachman, PhD student at the University of Washington, gives today's Fusion News update - summarizing the major recent headlines in fusion energy. Links to all of the stories mentioned are included below. 1. Helion raises $425M to help build a fusion reactor for Microsoft https://techcrunch.com/2025/01/28/helion-raises-425m-to-help-build-a-fus…

1
Strategic Planning for Advisors: Your 2025 Checklist 30:35

3M ago30:35

30:35

Key takeaways from today’s episode include: -Why having a well-defined marketing plan is essential for standing out in an increasingly crowded marketplace - and how to craft one that works. -The importance of differentiating between your growth plan and marketing strategy to accelerate business development and maximize opportunities. -How improving…

1
Mastering Metrics: How Data-Driven Decisions Drive Success 11:16

3M ago11:16

11:16

Key takeaways from today’s episode include: The importance of tracking sales cycles and understanding the time prospects spend at each stage of your process - and how this can unlock new growth opportunities. How automation and workflow enhancements can reduce inefficiencies and accelerate your business operations. Real-life examples of how improvi…

1
Commonwealth Fusion Systems plans to build its first power plant in Virginia; UK funds fusion; production of fusion-grade steel at scale 8:42

3M ago8:42

8:42

Dr. Cyd Cowley, working at the intersection of fusion and AI at FIA affiliate member digiLab, gives today's global fusion news update. Links to all of the stories mentioned are included below. 1. Fusion Start-Up Plans to Build Its First Power Plant in Virginia https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/17/climate/commonwealth-fusion-power-plant.html 2. Minist…

1
Smart Solutions for Advisors Nearing Retirement 17:08

3M ago17:08

17:08

Key takeaways from today’s episode include: Why selling your business to a larger enterprise may not solve your operational challenges - and how to avoid becoming a W-2 employee again. The importance of maintaining control over your practice and building a structure that aligns with your goals. How to surround yourself with the right team and resou…

1
Greatest Hits - Mastering Practice Management 32:12

4M ago32:12

32:12

Key takeaways from today’s episode include: *The critical distinction between managing and leading employees. *How to align employee performance with your company’s core values. *Best practices for providing training and development tools to your team. *Why marketing and branding are key to sustained growth. *The role of personal growth in becoming…

1
Greatest Hits - Thriving in Change: The Power of Brand Evolution 22:04

4M ago22:04

22:04

Today’s show highlights include: • How predictability can lead to the downfall of your business. • The crucial role of modifying your brand, website, logo, and mission statement as your company grows. • Practical tips for analyzing every aspect of your business and identifying KPIs for change. • Why adaptability is essential for entrepreneurs to su…

1
Happy new year! 2024 recap 10:53

4M ago10:53

10:53

In this special edition of Fusion News, Fusion Industry Association CEO Andrew Holland summarizes fusion's progress in 2024 and introduces some of the major headlines from the year. Links to news stories are included below. Wishing you and your loved ones a happy and healthy 2025! 1. Nuclear Startup Pacific Fusion Nabs $900 Million in Funding https…

1
Key Trends Advisors Need to Watch in 2025 17:00

4M ago17:00

17:00

Key predictions explored in this episode include: Why smaller RIAs are rolling up into larger entities and how this trend will reshape the landscape for firms under $1 billion in assets. Increased seller interest, high valuations, and the influx of new private equity and outside capital driving competition in the advisory space. The rise of new pla…

1
Insights from Our Top Episodes of 2024 21:11

4M ago21:11

21:11

This episode dives into pivotal themes, including: Insights from Scott Curtis, COO of Raymond James Financial, on the importance of flexibility and continuous learning, including how to navigate AI advancements and shifting practice valuations. A breakdown of the discussion with Vince Leto on the fundamentals of becoming an RIA, weighing the pros a…

1
The 10 Habits That Drive Entrepreneurial Success 29:12

4M ago29:12

29:12

Key takeaways from today’s episode include: Why honing in on what you do best and letting go of the rest is critical for growth. How adopting a 10x mindset shifts your focus to activities that create exponential results. A strategy to celebrate progress, maintain perspective, and stay motivated. Insights on balancing your workload to foster creativ…

1
Greatest Hits - What is Complacency Costing You? 27:22

4M ago27:22

27:22

Today’s show highlights include: • How complacency creates a cycle that stops your business from advancing. • The hidden dangers of working for a “neutral” firm and how it can limit your success. • A growing trend of firms driving a wedge between financial advisors and their clients. • Why the advisor-client relationship holds more value than the f…

1
What Every Advisor Needs to Know Before Changing Firms 31:43

5M ago31:43

31:43

Key takeaways from today’s episode include: Why the “right firm” depends entirely on your unique practice and goals - and how to determine what’s truly best for you. The critical difference between recruiters and consultants - and why working with the right partner changes everything. Why a comprehensive preparation process can make your transition…

1
General Fusion achievement; China ships ITER modules; Researchers reveal mechanism of runaway electron generation; Tokamak Energy partners with UK and US governments 10:20

5M ago10:20

10:20

December 11, 2024 Mechanical engineer Jasmine Mund gives today's Fusion News episode, summarizing the major fusion news headlines from the past two weeks. Links to all of the stories mentioned are included below.1. General Fusion confirms significant fusion neutron yield and plasma stability during MTF compression experiment series with new peer-re…

1
Big Wins Require Bold Moves 27:05

5M ago27:05

27:05

Key takeaways from today’s episode include: How making small but strategic changes, like switching partners or tools, can lead to exponential growth in business and personal success. The emotional hurdles advisors face when considering a move, including loyalty and guilt, and how to overcome them. Why a firm change might be necessary for taking you…

1
Fusion startup lands $900M in funding; Japan launches FAST fusion project; NYT covers why fusion is moving fast; Tokamak Energy raises $125M; OpenStar achieves first plasma 9:21

5M ago9:21

9:21

November 27, 2024 Fusion News Dr. Cyd Cowley, working at the intersection of fusion and AI at FIA affiliate member digiLab, gives today's global fusion news update. Links to all of the stories mentioned are included below.1. Nuclear Startup Pacific Fusion Nabs $900 Million in Fundinghttps://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-10-25/nuclear-startup…

1
Avoiding the Danger Zone: Legal Essentials for Financial Advisors 52:53

5M ago52:53

52:53

Today’s episode highlights include: Considerations in legal representation when making a career move or planning an M&A transaction. Critical safeguards for buyers and sellers to secure M&A contracts and ensure a smooth transition. AI in finance—opportunities and the risks associated with fraud, client confidentiality, and regulatory compliance. Cl…

1
Client Relationships: The Key to Practice Longevity 28:08

6M ago28:08

28:08

Key takeaways from today’s episode include: The impact of “set-it-and-forget-it” client relationships and how they may lead to a false sense of security. Why consistent, proactive communication matters, even in positive markets, to prevent clients from feeling overlooked. Simple systems and automation tips for keeping client connections strong, fro…

1
Greatest Hits - The Spectrum of Advisor Independence 22:41

6M ago22:41

22:41

Topics include: *The importance of having a clear understanding of what independence means to you so that you can find a firm partner that meets your unique needs. *An explanation of the varying levels of independence available to advisors, and the differences between the models depending on how much autonomy advisors are seeking. *How each indepen…

1
Greatest Hits - The Power of Home Office Visits 25:45

6M ago25:45

25:45

Today's show highlights include: *The benefits of home office visits for both firms and advisors. *The importance of details when it comes to planning home office visits. *Why you should understand the in-person culture of a firm before making a decision. *The difference in production and creativity when people are working virtually vs. in-person. …

1
Tokamak Energy reveals pilot plant design details, Thales and Max Planck set a world record, DOE announces $30M for commercial fusion 10:10

6M ago10:10

10:10

October 30, 2024 Mechanical design engineer Jasmine Mund gives this week's global fusion news update, summarizing behind all of the major headlines. Links to all of the stories mentioned are included below.1. Tokamak Energy gives details of pilot fusion energy plant designhttps://www.world-nuclear-news.org/articles/tokamak-energy-gives-details-of-p…

1
Greatest Hits - Empowerment Strategies for Business Success 39:27

6M ago39:27

39:27

Show highlights include: *A breakdown of Dan Sullivan’s Top 10 habits whichblend both personal growth and professional success. *Why, as a business owner, carving out quiet moments for oneself isn't just a luxury; it's a strategic necessity for clarity, creativity, and decision-making. *Elevating the client experience across all interactions to cem…

1
Mastering Practice Management 32:13

6M ago32:13

32:13

Key takeaways from today’s episode include: *The critical distinction between managing and leading employees. *How to align employee performance with your company’s core values. *Best practices for providing training and development tools to your team. *Why marketing and branding are key to sustained growth. *The role of personal growth in becoming…

1
Zap Energy's new fusion power prototype, big science spin-offs, Japan's tokamak sets world record 9:04

7M ago9:04

9:04

Fusion News: October 16, 2024 Dr. Cyd Cowley, working at the intersection of fusion and AI at FIA affiliate member digiLab, gives today's global fusion news update. Links to all of the stories mentioned are included below.1. Zap Energy shows off its new fusion power prototype, Centuryhttps://techcrunch.com/2024/10/09/zap-energy-shows-off-its-new-fu…

1
Greatest Hits - Hot Mic Discussion: What’s Your Practice Actually Worth? 29:22

7M ago29:22

29:22

Today’s show highlights include: *Distinguishing between inflated numbers and the genuine value of a practice in order to achieve leverage in negotiations. *A breakdown of the factors that matter and make an impact on the value of a practice. *The importance of understanding the value proposition of the buyer, both culturally and economically, to d…

1
Greatest Hits - Streamlining Success: How Consultants Empower Financial Advisors 32:37

7M ago32:37

32:37

Today’s show highlights include: *The benefits of working with a professional consultant, and why it’s crucial specifically for financial advisors. *The extensive research involved in identifying the right firms and how professionals streamline this process. *The time constraints advisors face and how consultants help manage research and client car…

1
Marvel Fusion lands $70M, fusion fuel mix, researchers build AI model database to find new alloys for fusion facilities 12:24

7M ago12:24

12:24

Fusion News: October 2, 2024 Jeff Peachman, PhD student at the University of Washington, gives today's Fusion News update - summarizing the major recent headlines in fusion energy. Links to all of the stories mentioned are included below.1. Marvel Fusion lands $70M for laser-powered fusion bethttps://techcrunch.com/2024/09/25/marvel-fusion-lands-70…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Commonwealth Partners Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen