The Perfect RIA - podcast cover

The Perfect RIA

Matthew Jarvis, CFP® & Micah Shilanski, CFP®theperfectria.com
Welcome to The Perfect RIA podcast, the ultimate resource for advisors who want to master time management, optimize advisor-client interactions, achieve unparalleled profitability, and maximize value in their practice. Hosted by industry experts Matthew Jarvis, CFP®, and Micah Shilanski, CFP®, this podcast is your blueprint for success. Matthew and Micah don't talk theory; they share what has worked for them in the real world. They cut through the noise to deliver practical advice that you can implement immediately so you can make the most of your time—allowing you to spend more of it outside the office. Whether you're a seasoned advisor or just starting out, The Perfect RIA podcast equips you with the tools and knowledge you need to excel. Tune in and transform your advisory practice into a powerhouse of success.
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Episodes

From Business to Freedom With Jerome Myers [Episode 315]

In this episode of the Perfect RIA Podcast, Matthew Jarvis and Jerome Myers delve into the complexities of business exits, exploring the psychological aspects of attachment styles and their impact on financial advisors. They discuss the inevitability of exiting a business, whether through selling, giving away, or closing it, and emphasize the importance of having a post-exit plan. Jerome introduces his concept of the 'Five Scars of Success,' which highlights the emotional and psychological chall...

Jun 30, 202531 minEp. 315

Encore episode - Why Don’t I Have More Prospects?!?

Is the prospect stream pretty low? Or, even, completely dried up? This episode is all about the common mistakes made in marketing, creating content, delivering value, and more that really affect your prospect numbers. Matthew and Micah share specifically how they ‘put in reps’ and how that, along with not playing office and other important aspects, has allowed them to develop a solid flow of prospects. Listen in to hear about how important it is to be diligent with your time and ensure you’re us...

Jun 27, 202520 min

Unlocking Value in M&A Transactions With Steven Jarvis [Episode 314]

In this episode of the Perfect RA Podcast, host Matt Jarvis speaks with his brother, Steven Jarvis, CPA, about the intricacies of auditing in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) deals. They discuss the importance of accurate financial reporting, the nuances of EBITDA, and the potential red flags that can arise during the due diligence process. Steven emphasizes the need for financial advisors to maintain clean books and be transparent about their financials, as this can significantly impact the v...

Jun 23, 202530 minEp. 314

Encore Episode: You Said What In A Client Meeting?!

One of our core tenets and values at TPR is reality, not theory. Matthew and Micah discuss how we get from a theoretical environment to a real environment especially when it comes to meetings with clients where we aim to deliver massive value. You will hear about the importance of the words you use in meetings as well as what you should be doing to avoid miscommunication with clients. Matthew and Micah also share tips on how to set expectations in ways that are clear and making way for success. ...

Jun 20, 202531 min

Not Everyone Needs a Niche [Episode 313]

In this episode, Micah and Jarvis discuss the concept of niching in the financial advisory space, exploring its importance, the distinction between advertising and marketing, and the journey of finding and developing a niche. They emphasize the need for advisors to understand their clients deeply, build trust, and take actionable steps towards establishing their niche. The conversation highlights the long-term commitment required for successful niching and the importance of integrity in client r...

Jun 16, 202527 minEp. 313

Encore episode - Client Segmentation

Client segmentation is the process by which you divide your clients up based on common characteristics (such as demographics or behaviors) so that you can serve those clients more effectively. However, client segmentation doesn’t always work in the advisory industry. In fact, it highlights another issue altogether: a failure to define your niche. So, in this episode, Micah and Matthew will be sharing the problems that develop when you start segmenting clients and what you can do to provide massi...

Jun 13, 202524 min

Navigating the New Era of Financial Advisory With Peter Velardi

In this episode of the TPR Podcast, Matthew Jarvis and Peter Velardi discuss the evolving landscape of financial advisory practices, particularly the impact of private equity on the industry. They explore the shift from traditional independent practices to a more consolidated model, emphasizing the importance of understanding the true value of financial practices and the necessity of risk management. The conversation highlights the current market dynamics, the need for advisors to adapt to chang...

Jun 12, 202530 min

Work-Life Balance with Guest Dustin Frost [Episode 312]

In this episode, Matt interviews Dustin Frost, co-founder of Attentus and creator of the Ride Loud app. They discuss Dustin's journey from a young entrepreneur to running a successful tech company, his productivity strategies, and how he balances work and life. Dustin shares insights on building a strong team, accountability, and the importance of being present with family and friends. The conversation emphasizes the significance of discipline, passion, and effective client relationships in achi...

Jun 09, 202530 minEp. 312

Encore episode - Prospect Process - Must Schedule Right Now: Available or Desperate?

What happens when a prospect says, “I have time tomorrow at 2 pm”? In today’s episode, Matthew and Micah compare this situation to being put into a Jiu-Jitsu chokehold and discuss how to navigate this situation in a calm way. You will hear tips on how to lay a solid foundation for your process of success and how to explain it to your clients in a way that demonstrates its value to them. Listen in as the guys break down how making exceptions for a client is actually going to take away from the va...

Jun 06, 202532 min

Lean Learning and Building True Fans with Pat Flynn [Episode 311]

In this episode of TPR Podcast, we’re joined by legendary entrepreneur, content creator, and author Pat Flynn. Known for pioneering transparency in online business through his blog Smart Passive Income, Pat shares his journey from architecture to content empire, covering everything from personal finance blogging to Pokémon YouTube channels. Lean Learning and Building True Fans with Pat Flynn [Episode 311] Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Pat Flynn - Linkedin | We...

Jun 02, 202527 minEp. 311

Encore Episode: What Is The Perfect RIA?

In this Encore Episode Matt and Micah talk about how often you use financial phrases, terminology, or jargon that mean nothing to your clients or prospects? This is something that many advisors do not focus on enough. Verbally simplifying and breaking down what you’re doing to your clients (or prospects) will allow them to recognize how much value you are adding to their life. So, today Matthew and Micah will be sharing the background story as to why they started The Perfect RIA and the reasons ...

May 30, 202526 min

Navigating The M&A Landscape With Jessica Polito [Episode 310]

In this episode of the TPR Podcast, Matthew Jarvis and Jessica Polito delve into the complexities of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the financial advisory space. They discuss the current trends in M&A, the importance of understanding deal terms, and the emotional journey of selling a business. The conversation highlights the significance of context in business valuation, the challenges of succession planning, and the need for advisors to be proactive in their approach to potential buy...

May 26, 202528 minEp. 310

Encore episode - Double Your Practice

In this encore episode you'll learn the answerto the question, How are you defining the success that you want to match or surpass? So many advisors have a dream of reaching a specific level in their career, but they never pinpoint the steps they need to take to get there. Without defining goals, planning accurately, cultivating motivation, and reflecting often, you will be on a constant uphill battle with no endpoint in sight. So, in this episode, Matthew will share how to double your success in...

May 23, 202520 min

The Art of Taking Time Off [Episode 309]

In this conversation, Jarvis and Micah discuss the importance of taking real vacations as advisors, emphasizing the need for clear communication with clients and team members. They outline five common mistakes advisors make when planning time off, including not setting expectations, failing to communicate effectively, and neglecting to have an emergency plan. The discussion also highlights the value of having a structured approach to client meetings and the necessity of creating a checklist for ...

May 19, 202527 minEp. 309

Encore episode - You Drank a Soda in a Client Meeting?!?

There are many things that advisors subconsciously do in client meetings that make a large impact on how those meetings go. Everything from how you enunciate to how you position your body are either adding to or detracting from the client experience, which is ultimately the determining factor in whether they hire you. So, in this episode, Micah and Matthew will be discussing several things you should and shouldn’t do in client meetings. Listen in as they share how to ensure you are performing at...

May 16, 202531 min

Bonus Episode: The Numbers Behind Financial Success

Matthew Jarvis and John Poole discuss the critical importance of financial advisors understanding their business numbers and the implications for practice valuation and sales. They explore common misconceptions among advisors regarding their knowledge of financial metrics, the impact of market growth on practice valuation, and the challenges faced by generational transitions in the industry. The conversation highlights the need for advisors to be well-informed about their business details to avo...

May 15, 202526 min

The Critical Role of Talent in Advisory Firms [Episode 308]

In this episode of the TPR podcast, Matthew, James Cahn, and Dean Smith discuss the intricacies of mergers and acquisitions in the advisory industry, emphasizing the importance of talent acquisition, cultural fit, and organic growth. They explore the challenges faced by smaller firms in competing with larger entities, the significance of compliance and cybersecurity, and the necessity of succession planning for long-term success. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of financial ad...

May 12, 202527 minEp. 308

Encore episode - How Did I Lose $50,000 This Month!?!

In this encore episode Matthew and Micah are excited to talk about how to communicate with clients when their accounts go down in value. Rather than giving clients a 72-page document on probabilities of success, there are some key ways to prepare them and set expectations reasonably to make these conversations clearer. Matthew and Micah discuss ways that you can educate clients properly and set them up successfully for whatever moves the market makes. They discuss the discomfort clients feel whe...

May 09, 202527 min

The Hard Truths of Success [Episode 307]

In this episode, Jarvis and Micah discuss the dynamics of their podcast, emphasizing the importance of consistency and preparation in achieving success. They explore the hard truths behind success, the necessity of practice, and the value of networking. The conversation also highlights the significance of continuous learning, measuring success through key metrics, and living intentionally to balance work and family life. The episode concludes with actionable items for growth and accountability. ...

May 05, 202529 minEp. 307

Encore episode - How To Communicate Your Value To Clients [Episode 172]

In this throwback episode, Matthew and Micah revisit one of their most impactful conversations about adding real value during client meetings. Every advisor knows they need to meet with clients regularly but what do you actually say in those meetings to make them count? If you've ever struggled with that question, this episode is for you. The guys go back to the origins of the value-add, share their early struggles, and talk about what helped them build confidence and purpose into every client i...

May 02, 202529 min

Annuities Made Simple: Saving Time and Serving Clients Better [Episdoe 306]

In this episode, Matthew Jarvis hosts Brian Smith and Will Wade from Foundational Income Associates to discuss the complexities and importance of annuities in financial advising. They explore the different groups of advisors regarding their approach to annuities, introduce a five-step process for selecting and managing annuities, and emphasize the importance of streamlined licensing and paperwork. The conversation also highlights the ongoing support provided to advisors and the common challenges...

Apr 28, 202530 minEp. 306

Relationship Currency: Converting Cash Flow Conversations into Client Loyalty

In this week's Follow Up Friday, Amber Kuhn highlights what makes you invaluable to your clients and why you might be underestimating your own worth. On Monday, Matt and Micah kicked off the week by sharing real-world client experiences that showcase advisor value in action. Their first piece of wisdom? Start keeping a "value journal" of moments when clients recognize your impact. Those testimonials become psychological lifelines during those inevitable days when you question your contributions....

Apr 25, 20257 min

Value Beyond The Meeting [Episode 305]

In this episode, Matt and Micah discuss the art of delivering massive value to clients that extends far beyond the conference room door. They argue that cash flow isn't just a financial metric—it's the lifeblood of effective retirement planning. The duo shares practical wisdom on systematically tracking value delivery, mastering the delicate dance of cash flow conversations, and leveraging your own financial journey to build unshakeable client confidence. They unpack the emotional dimensions of ...

Apr 21, 202526 minEp. 305

The Value-Add Ladder and Exit Strategies of the Ultra-Successful

In this week's Follow Up Friday, Amber Kuhn recaps a discussion on ranking value adds and practice valuation. On Monday, Matt and Micah delivered a masterclass on value-add services that'll have you rethinking your client relationships faster than you can say "fiduciary responsibility." They dove into the art of creating one-page documents that showcase your value to clients while somehow managing to keep themselves to just one page each. They ranked these value-adds from "you should be doing th...

Apr 18, 20258 min

Selling High: Why Your Practice May Be Worth Double What You Think with Guest Scott DiGiammarino

In this episode, Matthew Jarvis and Scott DiGiammarino from JPTD discuss the financial advisory practice marketplace where valuations have skyrocketed to unprecedented heights—often doubling previous appraisals. They dive into the minds of today's buyers, revealing that the landscape is dominated by private equity firms operating as either integrators or aggregators, each with distinct approaches to acquisitions. Contrary to popular belief, many advisors selling practices aren't ready for retire...

Apr 17, 202532 min

Ranking Value Adds: Easy Wins and Game Changers [Episode 304]

In this episode of The Perfect RIA podcast, Matt and Micah dive into the world of value adds – those extra touches that keep clients from heading for the exit. The duo serves up a practical ranking system, categorizing value adds from simple to complex - where it might require a few extra cups of coffee. They reveal how these reports can transform client comprehension from confused head-scratching to confident nods of approval. The conversation ventures through the often-neglected territory of s...

Apr 14, 202526 minEp. 304

Navigating Compliance and Cash Flow: The S-Corp Edition

In this week's Follow Up Friday, Amber Kuhn recaps a discussion between Matt and Catharine Tindall to unravel the complexities of S-corporation structures for financial advisors. Catherine challenged advisors to move beyond the simple question of "Should I become an S-corp?" and instead dive deeper into the strategic considerations. Matt and Catherine both underscored an essential truth: While there's no magic tax bullet, proactive planning can significantly optimize an advisor's financial growt...

Apr 11, 20255 min

The S-Corp Advantage: What You Need to Know with Guest Catherine Tindall [Episode 303]

In this episode of The Perfect RIA, Matthew Jarvis and Catherine Tindall, CPA ,explore the intricate world of tax strategies specifically tailored for financial advisors. Their conversation cuts through the complexity of S-Corp structures and tax planning, offering practical wisdom for professionals looking to optimize their financial approach. Catherine brings her expertise to the forefront, challenging traditional thinking about retirement planning and business investment. The discussion revea...

Apr 07, 202526 minEp. 303

The Art of Firing Clients

In this week's Follow Up Friday, Amber Kuhn recaps a discussion between Matt and Micah about one of the most challenging aspects of running a financial advisory practice: knowing when—and how—to fire clients. The episode dove into practical strategies for managing client expectations, beginning with establishing clear communication policies. When clients challenge advice, it often signals that the advisor hasn't communicated effectively. However, when clients repeatedly refuse to follow critical...

Apr 04, 20256 min

Why Or When To Fire A Client [Episode 302]

In this episode of the Perfect RIA Podcast, Matt and Micah tackle the delicate dance of knowing when—and how—to part ways with clients. They challenge the very notion that advisors can simply "fire" clients, arguing instead that you must first earn that right through consistent value delivery. They explore the fascinating psychology behind client-advisor tensions, revealing how unmet expectations are at the root of most relationship breakdowns. "All disappointment," they remind us, "comes when e...

Mar 31, 202528 minEp. 302
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