How do top financial advisors future-proof their practices?

In this episode of the Top Advisor Podcast, Bill Cates sits down with Jeff Panick, principal of Balance Wealth Partners and author of Your Future Is Now, to unpack how a values-driven approach to financial literacy and legacy planning builds deeper client trust and bridges the gap between generations.

Jeff shares his personal journey from the U.S. Army to becoming a financial advisor, how writing two books became an essential part of his practice, and the strategies he uses to engage clients’ children and heirs.

If you're a financial advisor looking to deepen relationships, retain next-gen clients, and lead with humility, this episode delivers real talk and actionable takeaways.

Download free resources mentioned in the show: referralcoach.com/resources

Learn more about ProudMouth’s Influence Accelerator: proudmouth.com/kates

Jeff’s Firm: Balance Wealth Partners Jeff’s Book: Your Future Is Now: A Guide to Mastering Your Finances and Independence

Coming Soon: Your Future Is Now – Retirement Edition (Fall 2025)

In this episode of the Financial Freedom Podcast with Steve Richardson, we break down one of the biggest questions every retiree faces: How much is enough, and how do you plan for the life you actually want?

From my Army beginnings to my 25+ years guiding families through financial decisions, I share the lessons, tools, and strategies to help you align your money with your lifestyle goals. We’ll cover everything from Social Security, Medicare, and student loans to financial literacy, succession planning, and how to design a retirement that truly fits your values.

Retirement planning isn’t just numbers; it’s about communication, lifestyle, and making choices today that set you up for independence tomorrow. Whether you’re decades away from retirement or just a few years out, this conversation will help you put the puzzle pieces together.

Most people think charitable giving is just about writing checks, but the smartest investors know it’s also one of the most powerful wealth strategies available.

In 2024, Americans donated over $593 billion to charity, but few realized they could have given more, reduced their taxes, and created a lasting family legacy all at the same time.

In this video, I break down five proven philanthropic strategies that go beyond generosity, they’re financial tools that help you:

• Reduce your tax burden
• Grow your giving power
• Involve your family in meaningful ways
• Secure your retirement income
• Leave a legacy that lasts

Whether you’re donating $500 or $500,000, these strategies can change the way you think about giving forever.

The Federal Reserve is the most powerful financial institution in the world, yet most investors don’t fully understand how it works, or how much its decisions shape their wealth.

In this video, I break down the Fed’s history, structure, and impact on your portfolio. From why it was created after the 1907 panic to how interest rate decisions drive markets today, you’ll learn why following the Fed is essential for smart investing and long-term wealth planning.

By the end of this video, you’ll know how to track the Fed, anticipate its moves, and position your investments accordingly. If you want to protect and grow your wealth, understanding the Fed isn’t optional, it’s fundamental.

Over 25 years in financial planning has taught me something most people overlook: success isn’t always about how much money you have, it’s about when you act.

In this video, I share why timing matters, how small adjustments today can create massive results over time, and why waiting for “the perfect moment” can actually cost you more than you think.

If you’ve ever felt uncertain about the markets or questioned your financial direction, this video will give you clarity and confidence on your next step.

Many believe that building wealth comes down to pursuing the highest investment returns. The reality? Returns matter far less than three often-overlooked factors:

• Asset allocation
• Minimizing unnecessary fees
• Tax efficiency

In this video, I’ll share how, over 25 years as a financial planner, I’ve helped individuals and families simplify their financial lives and gain confidence in their future.

Whether you’re preparing for retirement, protecting your family, or ensuring you’re on the right track, this is the place to start.

I’ll also explain how a clear financial plan, rather than guesswork, can provide peace of mind and help you move forward with clarity.

Most people overcomplicate money. They chase trends, get lost in jargon, and miss the bigger picture.

I’ve spent 25+ years in financial services, built Balance Wealth Partners, and written two books to make finance simple, for young adults just starting out and for retirees looking for clarity.

In this video, I break down how to avoid costly mistakes, build confidence in your financial plan, and create a future you can count on.

If you’ve been putting off getting your financial life in order, this is the place to start.

Congress just signed the most significant tax reform in years , an 870-page bill packed with changes that directly affect your income, investments, retirement, and even your estate planning.

In this video, I’ll break down what actually matters for you as an individual investor: tax brackets, deductions, Social Security, new savings opportunities, and key business benefits.

My goal is simple: to help you cut through the noise, understand the changes, and position yourself to take advantage of new opportunities.

Stay tuned for my upcoming book, Your Future is Now: Your Blueprint for Solving Your Retirement Puzzle.