The Real #Finfluencers
The Real #Finfluencers is a podcast that spotlights financial advisors using video and social media to grow their businesses and make a real impact—no hype, just proven strategies. Each episode features a candid conversation with an advisor who's doing it right, so you can learn what works and start showing up online with confidence.
Ep. 33: Mark Rapoza’s Client-First Video Strategy
Consistency matters more than perfection. It’s taken time for Mark Rapoza of Barrett & Company to embrace that attitude. His team has been producing advisor videos for more than four years, and he’s learned something most people miss: success has very little to do with public view counts.
In this episode of The Real #Finfluencers, Mark shares a client-first approach to video that’s designed to support the advisory relationship, not chase attention. His firm treats video as a practical tool they can use again and again, at the exact moments clients need reassurance, context, or a simp...
Ep. 32: Traci Richmond’s 9-Year Video Playbook
Financial advisor Traci Richmond of The Meakem Group joins The Real #Finfluencers to share what nine years of consistent video has taught her about visibility, credibility, and client connection.
At The Meakem Group, Traci has used video not just as a marketing tool, but as a way to create clarity for prospects before they ever book a call. Over time, she’s seen how short-form content, website videos, and steady consistency can transform both visibility and the client experience.
In this episode, Traci reveals:
• Why short-form video works best when...
Ep. 31: How Art Dinkin 10xed His Visibility With Consistent Video
Financial planner and DV Financial owner Art Dinkin joins The Real #Finfluencers to share how consistent short-form video transformed his visibility. In just one year, his website traffic jumped more than 10x — and that wasn’t even the original goal.
In this episode, Art reveals:
• Why paid YouTube boosts outperformed Facebook lead ads
• The unexpected website analytics that showed video’s impact
• How client testimonial videos became his strongest credibility builder
• The mindset shift behind his “pulse over purpose” mantra
• His best advice for advisors who feel intimidated by video
If yo...
Ep. 30: Ryan Canfield’s Next-Level Video Strategy
Ryan Canfield, founder of Victus Wealth Management, has built his YouTube presence on consistency and authenticity. In this episode, he shares how he turns client conversations into content, why showing up compounds like investing, and why he’s now stepping into entertaining, outside-the-box video to capture attention and drive business growth.
Show Notes:
Ryan Canfield’s Victus Wealth Management websiteRyan Canfield’s YouTube channelRyan Canfiend’s InstagramÂTools Ryan Relies on: ChatGPTJump AIÂ
🎙️ The Real #Finfluencers is powered by Idea Decanter—a video first marketing company helping financial advisors grow thei...
Ep. 29: Gerry Scott on Turning COIs into a Referral Engine
What if instead of asking COIs for referrals, you built a system that made them want to send business your way?
That’s the approach Gerry Scott took. A veteran advisor and creator of the Snowbirds US Day Tracker app, Gerry started by solving a simple client problem: tracking IRS and immigration days for snowbirds.Â
But the real breakthrough was turning that solution into a platform that promotes accountants and lawyers (his COIs), builds trust with clients, and generates a steady stream of referrals.
In this episode, Gerry shares:
How solving a cli...Ep. 28: Katherine & Christopher Tipper — Lessons from 300+ Videos
What happens when you record 300+ videos?Â
You figure out what actually works. Katherine and Christopher Tipper of Hunter Benefits join Real #Finfluencers to share how they built a YouTube presence that pulls in views and a LinkedIn strategy that deepens conversations.
You’ll learn:
Why reaction videos draw the biggest audiencesWhy showing your authentic self matters more than being polished
How engaging in comments can be as powerful as posting content
Hunter Benefits YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@hunterbenefits/videos<...
Ep. 28: Katherine & Christopher Tipper — Lessons from 300+ Videos
What happens when you record 300+ videos?Â
You figure out what actually works. Katherine and Christopher Tipper of Hunter Benefits join Real #Finfluencers to share how they built a YouTube presence that pulls in views and a LinkedIn strategy that deepens conversations.
You’ll learn:
 • Why reaction videos draw the biggest audiences
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 • Why showing your authentic self matters more than being polished
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 • How engaging in comments can be as powerful as posting content
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Hunter Benefits YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@hunterbenefits/videos
🎙️ Th...
Ep. 27: Larry Sprung’s 1,000+ Video Take-Aways
Larry Sprung, CFP® and founder of Mitlin Financial, joins The Real #Finfluencers to share how video has transformed his marketing over the last 11 years. From personal LinkedIn posts that outperform business updates, to creating videos that answer prospects’ most common questions, to committing to video for the long haul, Larry’s insights are practical and proven.
He also shares the origin of his “joy” movement — and why joy is more than just a marketing angle for him.
Show Notes:
 👉 Check out Larry’s book Financial Planning Made Per...
Ep. 26: How to Become Emotionally Magnetic on Video with Dr. Joshua Wilson
What makes someone hit “contact” after watching your video? It’s not your resume—it’s resonance.
In this episode, Dr. Joshua Wilson—PhD, founder of NeuBeFi, and former advisor—explains how emotional alignment outperforms credentials when it comes to video marketing. He shares how to craft stories that build trust fast, spark gut-level reactions, and attract the right-fit prospects.
You’ll learn:
• Why “ordinary” stories can drive extraordinary connection
• How to filter for alignment, not applause
• Why bingeable content leads to pre-sold clients
Whether you’re camera-shy or camera-conf...
Ep. 25: 5 Secrets to Real Finfluence
It’s the 25th episode of The Real #Finfluencers, and we’re looking back at the advice that stuck—the secrets that actually move the needle.
Featuring clips from:
 • Mike Zung on niching down
 • Derek Notman on gear that gets you seen
 • Stacy Miller on pushing past camera nerves
 • Mando Sallavanti on niche-specific conversion
 • Kevin Thompson on staying the course
🎧 Your 5-step shortcut to video confidence and client growth starts now.
 👉 Get the book on Amazon.
<...
Ep. 24: Melissa Joy’s Secrets to Creating Enduring Content
Melissa Joy, CFP®, didn’t wait for a trend—she built a brand. As the founder of Pearl Planning, Melissa embraced video from the very beginning. Nearly a decade later, her content continues to resonate because it’s grounded in purpose, authenticity, and human connection.
In this episode of The Real #Finfluencers, Melissa reveals how she creates content that remains relevant, how she approaches LinkedIn with heart, and why starting before you're “ready” is the real secret to success.
đź’ˇ 3 Timeless Content Strategies from Melissa Joy:
Record Stories That Stand the Test of Ti...Ep. 23: Learn from Eric McDermott’s 500K Follower Strategy
Eric McDermott didn’t just dip his toes into social media—he made waves. With over 500,000 followers and counting, Eric is showing what’s possible when financial professionals show up consistently and creatively on platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels.
In this episode of The Real #Finfluencers, Eric breaks down the mindset and tactics that helped him build an audience and a business—without compromising compliance or credibility.
đź’ˇ 3 Audience-Building Secrets from Eric McDermott:
Create Content, Not CommercialsPeople don’t want to be sold to—they want to learn someth...
Ep. 21-22: Duncan MacPherson on Letting Go of Perfection and Building a Content Strategy That Works
What happens when you stop trying to be perfect?
 You create videos that actually work.
In this power-packed conversation, Duncan MacPherson shares how financial advisors can move from overthinking to owning their message—through short-form content, authentic storytelling, and strategic repetition. As the founder of Pareto Systems, Duncan has coached thousands of professionals, and now he’s helping them use video to amplify their voice, convert trust into business, and scale without burnout.
đź’ˇ 6 Smart Moves for Video Marketing That Converts:
Let Your Clients Tell the Story...
Ep. 20: Content on the Go: How Domenick D’Andrea Turns Moments into Marketing
Domenick D’Andrea doesn’t just show up on video—he shows up strategically. As co-founder of DanDarah Wealth Management, Domenick leverages short-form video, conference appearances, and mobile-friendly tools to create engaging content that drives real results.
His approach proves that you don’t need a studio setup to make content that converts—you just need smart tools, short clips, and a clear message.
đź’ˇ 3 Smart Video Tips from Domenick:
Use a Gimbal to Upgrade Your Smartphone SetupDomenick recommends the Hohem gimbal to stabilize your phone and instantly imp...
Ep. 19: Ari Baum on Using Video to Scale, Stand Out, and Attract Top Talent
Ari Baum didn’t just start using video because it was trendy—he used it because it worked. As the founder of Endurance Wealth Partners, Ari leaned into video marketing during Covid and hasn’t looked back. Video helped him strengthen client relationships, expand his reach, and attract aligned financial professionals to join his firm.
Today, video continues to be one of his most powerful business development tools.
đź’ˇ Here Are 3 Ways Ari Uses Video to Grow His Business:
Use Video to Amplify Your Message at ScaleAri explains...
Ep. 18: Repetition Builds Confidence: Eric Negron’s Playbook for Getting Comfortable on Camera
Eric Negron believes financial advisors don’t need to be influencers—they need to be authentically visible. As CEO of Forefront Advisory Network, he’s helping advisors grow by getting in front of the camera, consistently and confidently.
In this episode, Eric breaks down the mindset, tools, and strategies behind showing up digitally—and how repetition and short-form video are the keys to cutting through today’s noisy online world.
đź’ˇ 3 Strategies Eric Recommends to Build Your Digital Presence:
Record Every Day—Even if It’s Just PracticeGetting good on c...
Ep. 16: Financial Advice That Stops the Scroll: Adam Holt’s Content Strategy
H. Adam Holt is not just leading conversations—he’s making them personal. As CEO of Asset-Map, Adam has embraced video as a tool for connection, education, and trust-building. In this episode of The Real #Finfluencers, Adam opens up about how showing vulnerability on camera has helped him forge deeper relationships with his audience.
By creating videos that are both human and helpful, Adam has made content a cornerstone of Asset-Map’s growth strategy—demonstrating that financial professionals don’t need to be flawless to be effective.
💡 Adam’s Top 3 Tips for Meaningful Vide...
Ep. 17: How Ron Bullis Uses Video + Digital Strategy to 10x His Firm’s Growth
Ron Bullis is building a new model for modern financial advising. As the founder of LifeWorks Advisors, he’s leading the charge when it comes to scalable digital growth. His strategy blends short-form video, gated content, and precision targeting to generate high-quality leads—and his firm’s expansion is proof that it works.
With a clear plan to 10x his growth, Ron treats video marketing not as an afterthought, but as the engine behind demand generation.
💡 Ron’s 3 Video Marketing Musts for Advisors:
Start Thinking Like a MarketerForget...
Ep. 15: How Justin Holtz Attracts 50% More Prospects with Strategic Video Marketing
Justin Holtz isn’t just talking to the camera—he’s talking directly to his niche. As the founder of District Financial Advisors, Justin has tapped into video marketing as a powerful tool to reach, educate, and convert his ideal audience: federal employees.
By crafting focused, polished content and meeting viewers exactly where they are, Justin has scaled his visibility—and grown his client base—without relying on paid ads.
💡 Here Are Justin’s 3 Key Video Marketing Strategies:
Use Video for Case StudiesJustin shares real (anonymized) client examples...
Ep.14: How James Bogart Scaled from $600M to $3B with Smart Marketing and Video Strategy
Scaling a firm from $600 million to $3 billion in assets under management doesn’t happen by accident. For James Bogart, CEO of Bogart Wealth, it came down to executing a smart, scalable marketing strategy rooted in education, digital content, and team empowerment.
His team’s consistent use of video marketing, niche content, and proactive outreach has expanded their prospect database exponentially—from 1,400 to over 80,000.
💡 James’s 3 Keys to Sustainable Marketing Growth:
Embrace Organic Lead FlowBefore the pandemic, James focused on live events to generate new leads. Now...
Ep.13: Mitch Slater on the Power of Short-Form Video and Return on Relationship
Mitch Slater knows how to connect—with clients, with colleagues, and with audiences. Drawing on decades of experience in financial advising, television, radio, and podcasting, Mitch has developed a modern LinkedIn strategy built around relationships, not transactions.
At UBS, Mitch helps lead the charge in digital communications, and his video content is a case study in short-form success. By focusing on brief, relatable, and human-centered content, he’s earning not just impressions—but trust.
đź’ˇ 3 Strategies Mitch Swears By:
Use LinkedIn to Build Real ConnectionsMitch treats LinkedIn as a netw...
Ep. 12: How Greg Furer Uses Video to Pre-Qualify Prospects Before the First Meeting
Greg Furer, CFP® is showing the industry what’s possible when consistency meets creativity. As CEO of Beratung Advisors, Greg has made video marketing the cornerstone of his client acquisition strategy. His content does the heavy lifting—educating, qualifying, and attracting the right-fit clients before they even reach out.
With over 400 videos in his library, Greg has built a marketing machine that works around the clock. He credits his success to structure, creativity, and a commitment to providing real value.
💡 Greg’s Top 3 Video Marketing Tips:
Pre-Qualify Clients with ContentEp. 11: Joe Conklin Shure’s LinkedIn Strategy Turns DMs into Clients
Joe Conklin Shure is on a mission to make financial advice feel human. As the founder of Conklin Shure Financial, Joe has built a powerful presence by focusing less on likes and more on meaning. His content speaks directly to mid-career millennials, offering not just financial guidance—but emotional resonance.
Through video marketing and LinkedIn outreach, Joe turns distant connections into real conversations, and real conversations into long-term client relationships.
💡 Joe’s 3 Best Practices for Meaningful Video Marketing:
Speak Straight to Your ViewerForget the masses. Joe talks t...
Ep. 10: How Rob Edwards Gets 3 out 4 of His New Clients From Video
Rob Edwards is living proof that you can thrive with video marketing—even with compliance limitations. As a financial advisor at Edwards Asset Management, Rob uses video to connect with his audience in creative, authentic ways. His content isn’t just relatable—it’s effective, driving real client growth by building trust and familiarity before a single meeting is booked.
💡 Rob’s Top 3 Tips for Advisors Using Video:
Build Your Video Muscle“Just hit record,” Rob says. It’s awkward at first, like lifting weights after time off. But practice builds con...
Ep. 9: Keith Wilson’s Videos Help Close 80% New Biz
Keith Wilson isn’t just making financial content—he’s making it engaging, searchable, and fun. Known online as That Financial Guy, Keith has become a standout in the advisor space by approaching video marketing with a content creator’s mindset. He’s not afraid to get creative, crack a joke, or remix a viral trend if it means helping people better understand their money.
He’s also become a trusted resource for other financial advisors looking to level up their video game.
💡 3 Things That Set Keith’s Strategy Apart:
Use Video to Bo...Ep.8: Derek Notman Cracks LinkedIn’s Top 1%
Derek Notman isn’t new to financial advising—but he is redefining what it looks like. As the founder and CEO of Couplr, Derek’s mission is to connect people with the right financial advisor using smart tech and even smarter content. He’s combined decades of experience with a powerful video and LinkedIn strategy that’s helped his message reach tens of thousands.
By consistently showing up online with purpose and polish, Derek has positioned Couplr as a forward-thinking FinTech company and built a personal brand that people trust.
💡 3 Tips That Power Derek’s...
Ep. 7: Stacy Miller on How to Overcome Perfectionism and Find Your Voice
Stacy Miller isn’t your typical video marketing success story. As an introverted perfectionist and founder of Bayview Financial Planning, Stacy admits that showing up on camera didn’t come naturally. But instead of letting hesitation hold her back, she found her own rhythm—one rooted in authenticity, relevance, and a little reward system to make it easier.
Just one year into embracing video, Stacy has shifted from overthinking to truly connecting, turning vulnerability into a powerful marketing tool.
💡 Here Are 3 of Stacy’s Go-To Video Strategies:
Give Yourself a Reward to...Ep. 6: Aaron Buchner Built a Brand Around “Prick Free” Financial Advice
Aaron Buchner isn’t afraid to ruffle a few feathers—or cactus needles. As the founder of Cactus, Aaron has built a bold personal brand rooted in authenticity, simplicity, and unapologetic realness. His tagline, Prick Free Financial Advice, isn’t just clever—it’s a philosophy.
Through Cactus, Aaron is redefining how financial planning is delivered, leaning into video marketing to build community and connection. His raw, relatable videos on Instagram and YouTube have become a go-to for viewers who want advice that’s helpful and human.
💡 3 Keys to Aaron’s Video Strategy:
...Ep. 1: Mike Zung’s Journey to 100,000 Views
What happens when a financial advisor creates content so niche, so spot-on, that it racks up over 100,000 views on YouTube? You get Mike Zung—CFP®, YouTube educator, and the founder of Java Wealth—whose mission to help tech professionals understand their RSUs turned into viral gold.
In this episode, Mike breaks down:
His content creation journey from “I just wanted to help” to “Whoa, 108K views?!”The video strategy behind his RSU successHow to identify the right topics that resonate with your ideal clients💡 Mike’s Top 3 Tips for Advisors Getting into Video:
Start with Sp...Ep. 5: Why Kevin Thompson Is NOT Chasing Clicks
Kevin Thompson, founder of 9I Capital Group, didn’t take the typical route into finance—and that’s exactly what makes his approach so refreshing. After a career in professional baseball, Kevin pivoted into wealth management with a mission to make content that’s not only educational but deeply human.
His video strategy blends mindset, psychology, ethics, and real conversations with clients—building trust one message at a time.
💡 3 Smart Moves from Kevin’s Content Playbook:
Growing Slowly Is Doing It RightKevin doesn’t chase vanity metrics. He’s focused on buildi...
Ep. 4: Maura Shaftoe’s Formula for LinkedIn Connection
Maura Shaftoe knows that when it comes to building a financial practice, connection is everything. Her success on LinkedIn isn’t about going viral—it’s about showing up with intention, clarity, and empathy. By leaning into short-form video, authentic messaging, and active engagement, Maura has created a digital presence that resonates with real people.
Here’s what’s working:
💡 3 Keys to Maura’s LinkedIn Strategy:
Keep Videos Short and PunchyUnder 60 seconds, on purpose. Maura uses quick hits of wisdom to grab attention and make a lasting impact.Lead with Aut...
Ep. 3: Mando Sallavanti’s Secrets for Winning Clients with LinkedIn
What if your next 30 clients were already following you on LinkedIn? That’s the reality for Mando Sallavanti, CFP®, founder of Freedom Path Wealth. He transformed his online presence into a client-generating machine. With a smart, consistent approach and a deep understanding of his niche, Mando proves that social media isn’t just for brand awareness—it’s for real business growth.
Here’s how he did it:
💡 3 Keys to Mando’s Success on LinkedIn:
Commit to ConsistencyGrowth came from showing up daily. Mando carved out time each day to post, com...
Ep. 2: Nic Nielsen’s Tips for YouTube Traction
In today’s digital-first world, video content isn’t optional—it’s essential. Just ask Nic Nielsen, CFP® of Know My Plan, who has built a multi-platform video presence that doesn’t just get views—it gets results. From his website to his social channels, Nic is using video to build trust, drive engagement, and convert leads.
Nic breaks down how financial advisors can go beyond vanity metrics and build a video strategy that actually grows your business.
💡 Top 3 Takeaways from Nic’s Video Strategy:
Track Leads and Conversions—Not Just ViewsThe m...