Smarter Planner Podcast

Hosted by Financial Planning Association National Capital Area Chapter

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Latest episode

Jun 2026

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About the show

Educating Financial Advisors on the things they should know (but don't). Host Belle Osvath, CFP®, interviews industry thought leaders and professionals targeting meaningful and useful information to help you to stay at the top of your game. No matter how long you have been in the industry there is always more to learn and interesting people to hear from, so join Belle in her mission to become a smarter planner. This Podcast is sponsored by the Financial Planning Association's National Capital Area chapter (FPA NCA) and will include the latest updates and announcements from the chapter. Find out more at: www.FPANCA.org

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60 recent

June 10, 202629 min

When Life Changes: Financial Planning for Major Transitions - Susan Bradley (Founder)

In this episode of The Smarter Planner Podcast, host Belle Osvath, CFP®, welcomes Susan Bradley, founder of the Sudden Money Institute, creator of the Certified Financial Transitionist (CeFT®) designation, and author of Sudden Money: Managing a Financial Windfall. Susan has spent decades studying what happens when people experience major life transitions involving money. What began as work helping women receiving legal settlements eventually evolved into a career focused on understanding the human side of financial planning and the challenges clients face when life changes suddenly. In this conversation, Susan explains why many financial planning conversations focus heavily on the technical side of change while overlooking the emotional, behavioral, and decision-making challenges that often accompany major life events. Susan also discusses the concept of becoming a client's thinking partner rather than simply their financial expert. She explains how advisors can help clients move through major life changes by providing structure, perspective, and a safe environment for decision-making. Throughout the conversation, Susan challenges advisors to think beyond the technical plan and consider what clients are experiencing as they move from one stage of life to another. One of her most important observations is that while advisors often focus on the first year after a major life event, many transitions continue unfolding for several years as clients adjust to a new reality and redefine their identity, relationships, and goals. Susan's message is simple: Financial transitions are ultimately human transitions, and advisors who understand both sides can create a deeper impact for their clients. Guest Links Website: https://financialtransitionist.com Book: Sudden Money: Managing a Financial Windfall LinkedIn: Susan Bradley Certified Financial Transitionist (CeFT®): https://financialtransitionist.com Recommend a Podcast Guest 👉 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PWXHTV7 The Smarter Planner Podcast is produced by the Financial Planning Association National Capital Area Chapter (FPA NCA) for educational purposes only. Belle Osvath and FPA NCA do not endorse specific individuals, firms, products, or services mentioned.

May 27, 202626 min

Marketing That Doesn't Feel Like Marketing - Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA® [Founder]

In this episode of The Smarter Planner Podcast, host Belle Osvath, CFP®, welcomes Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA®, and Certified Kingdom Advisor®, founder of Keil Financial Partners, host of the Retirement Revealed Podcast, and creator of the Mr. Retirement YouTube channel. Jeremy joins Belle to talk about advisor marketing, branding, and niching down in a way that feels authentic rather than sales-driven. Drawing on more than 20 years of experience helping clients transition into retirement, Jeremy explains why successful marketing is not just about generating leads. It starts with understanding exactly who you serve and how you communicate with them. Jeremy breaks down the framework he uses for his own business: • Brand: Who you are and who you serve • Messaging: How you speak to those people • Marketing: How you help the right people find you Jeremy also explains how his retirement planning framework became part of his client experience and why advisors should think intentionally about how clients experience their process from the very first interaction. The conversation also explores Jeremy's work as a Certified Kingdom Advisor and how values, faith, and transparency can influence advisor-client relationships. Finally, Jeremy shares why he believes advisors should learn motivational interviewing, a communication framework originally developed in behavioral counseling that helps people move toward meaningful change through better conversations and questions. His message to advisors is simple: The best marketing often does not feel like marketing at all. It feels like clarity, consistency, and connection. Guest Links Website: https://keilfp.com Podcast: https://keilfp.com/blogpodcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MrRetirement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrretirement/ Recommend a Podcast Guest 👉 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PWXHTV7 The Smarter Planner Podcast is produced by the Financial Planning Association National Capital Area Chapter (FPA NCA) for educational purposes only. Belle Osvath and FPA NCA do not endorse specific individuals, firms, products, or services mentioned.

May 13, 202631 min

The Problem with Buy-and-Hold Investing - Vincent Randazzo [Portfolio Manager]

In this episode of The Smarter Planner Podcast, host Belle Osvath, CFP®, welcomes Vincent Randazzo, CMT, portfolio manager at Tamaris Capital Management, co-portfolio manager of the Defender Risk Adaptive 500 ETF, and founder of ViewRight Advisors. Vincent has spent more than two decades studying market behavior, technical analysis, and portfolio risk. In this conversation, he joins Belle to talk about a research paper he recently co-authored called Navigating Lost Decades: Protecting Long-Term Compounding in Secular Bear Markets and why advisors need to think beyond short-term volatility and start planning for the market environments that can quietly damage wealth over time. Drawing on more than 155 years of market history, Vincent explains what "lost decades" really are, why they happen more often than many investors realize, and how extended periods of flat or negative returns can create both financial and behavioral challenges for clients. Vincent also talks about why valuation alone is rarely enough to guide investment decisions, why context matters more than headlines, and how having a clear process can help advisors stay confident when clients start asking tough questions during volatile markets. Guest Links Website: https://viewright.ai LinkedIn: Vincent Randazzo Recommend a Podcast Guest 👉 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PWXHTV7 The Smarter Planner Podcast is produced by the Financial Planning Association National Capital Area Chapter (FPA NCA) for educational purposes only. Belle Osvath and FPA NCA do not endorse specific individuals, firms, products, or services mentioned.

April 29, 202627 min

Why Financial Advisors Can't Ignore Content Creation Anymore - David Keller,CMT [Founder]

In this episode of The Smarter Planner Podcast, host Belle Osvath, CFP®, welcomes David Keller, CMT, President and Chief Strategist at Sierra Alpha Research, a boutique investment research and consulting firm. David is also a CNBC contributor and the host of the Market Misbehavior YouTube channel and podcast, where he helps investors and advisors better understand market behavior through technical analysis and storytelling. With a unique background blending finance, psychology, and creative storytelling, David shares how he built a business around content creation and why video, podcasts, and social media are becoming essential tools for advisors looking to build trust and connect with clients. In this conversation, David shares: Why advisors should embrace content creation and start before they feel "ready" How authentic, human content stands out in a world increasingly filled with AI-generated noise The importance of thinking beyond posting content and building a true "channel" or media platform Practical tools and strategies for growing a presence, including analytics, coaching, and consistency How content helps shift investors from emotional decision-making to evidence-based thinking David also explains how his own journey - from corporate roles at firms like Fidelity and Bloomberg to launching his own firm - was driven by a desire to communicate more effectively and connect with audiences in a more meaningful way. He emphasizes that advisors who show up consistently, share insights clearly, and present themselves as real people can build stronger relationships and stand out in a crowded marketplace. Guest Links Website: marketmisbehavior.com YouTube: MarketMisbehavior LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dckeller/ Recommend a Podcast Guest 👉 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PWXHTV7 The Smarter Planner Podcast is produced by the Financial Planning Association National Capital Area Chapter (FPA NCA) for educational purposes only. Belle Osvath and FPA NCA do not endorse specific individuals or services mentioned.

April 15, 202627 min

Volatility Is the New Normal: Portfolio Construction for Today's Markets - David Marra [Co-Founder & CIO]

In this episode of The Smarter Planner Podcast, host Belle Osvath, CFP®, welcomes David Marra, Co-Founder and Chief Investment Officer at Markin Asset Management, a firm focused on combining quantitative and fundamental research to help investors navigate changing market conditions and manage downside risk. With decades of experience in investment research and portfolio construction, David breaks down what downside protection really means and why it has become increasingly important in today's faster-moving, more volatile markets. While many portfolios are built for growth, David explains how advisors can better evaluate risk, manage drawdowns, and build strategies that protect capital without giving up long-term opportunity. David also discusses how global forces—like geopolitical conflict, supply chain disruptions, and rising interest rates—are contributing to increased market volatility, and why advisors need to adapt their investment approach accordingly. He emphasizes that effective portfolio construction is not just about avoiding losses, but about managing downside risk while still positioning clients for long-term growth. Guest Links Website: https://markinfunds.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/david-marra-8693b44 Recommend a Podcast Guest 👉 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PWXHTV7 The Smarter Planner Podcast is produced by the Financial Planning Association National Capital Area Chapter (FPA NCA) for educational purposes only. Belle Osvath and FPA NCA do not endorse specific individuals or services mentioned.

April 1, 202625 min

Beyond Buy and Hold: Using 1031 Exchanges in Financial Planning - Rich Arzaga, CFP®, CCIM [Founder]

In this episode of The Smarter Planner Podcast, host Belle Osvath, CFP®, welcomes Rich Arzaga, CFP®, CCIM, founder of Real Estate Whisperer Financial Planning. Rich specializes in helping clients and advisors better understand how real estate fits into a comprehensive financial plan. With real estate representing a significant portion of household wealth in the U.S., he highlights a critical gap: many financial plans treat real estate as a static asset rather than an active planning opportunity. In this conversation, Rich breaks down the fundamentals of 1031 exchanges and explains how they can be used to defer taxes when transitioning from one investment property to another. Key topics- What a 1031 exchange is—and how it differs from other "exchange" strategies When a 1031 exchange may be appropriate for clients The tax implications of selling investment property without a strategy Key rules advisors should understand, including timing requirements and property guidelines The concept of "boot" and how partial exchanges are taxed How clients can transition from active real estate management to more passive investments The importance of identifying tax exposure before recommending a strategy Why selecting experienced partners (like qualified intermediaries) is critical Rich also shares how advisors can identify opportunities within the financial planning process—whether clients bring the issue forward themselves or the advisor uncovers it through tax returns, cash flow analysis, or long-term planning projections. He emphasizes that advisors don't need to become real estate experts but understanding the basics and collaborating with the right specialists can significantly improve client outcomes. Guest Links Website: https://www.realestatewhisperer.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richarzaga Recommend a Podcast Guest 👉 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PWXHTV7 The Smarter Planner Podcast is produced by the Financial Planning Association National Capital Area Chapter (FPA NCA) for educational purposes only. This content is not intended as investment, tax, or legal advice. Individual circumstances may vary.

March 25, 202619 min

The Succession Trap: What Advisors Get Wrong About Exiting Their Practice

In this episode of The Smarter Planner Podcast, host Belle Osvath, CFP®, welcomes Tyson Ray, host of The Total Succession Show and author of Total Succession. With decades of experience building and acquiring advisory firms, Tyson shares his personal journey into succession planning—and why what he thought was a solid plan turned out to be incomplete. As consolidation accelerates across the industry and private equity plays a larger role, Tyson explains why advisors must take a more intentional and informed approach to their exit strategy. In this conversation, Tyson discusses: Why succession planning is more than a buy-sell agreement The rise of aggregators, integrators, and private equity in the advisory space The hidden trade-offs behind high valuations and earn-out structures How succession decisions can directly impact client outcomes Why advisors must define what they are retiring into, not just exiting from The risks of waiting too long—and losing flexibility and options Strategies for building internal succession through team incentives and structure How multi-generational planning can strengthen client retention Tyson also introduces his "SPACE" framework for succession planning: See your future and define what comes next Prepare by identifying what needs to be built or changed Act on a clear plan Commit to decisions and transitions Exit with intention into the next phase of life He emphasizes that succession is not just a business decision—it's a fiduciary responsibility. With trillions of dollars in motion and a significant percentage of advisors nearing retirement, the choices made today will shape both client outcomes and the future of advisory firms. Guest Links Website: https://totalsuccession.comFirm: https://formwealth.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tysonray Recommend a Podcast Guest 👉 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PWXHTV7 The Smarter Planner Podcast is produced by the Financial Planning Association National Capital Area Chapter (FPA NCA) for educational purposes only. Belle Osvath and FPA NCA do not endorse specific individuals or services mentioned.

March 18, 202620 min

From AUM to Everything: The New Model Winning Clients - Erik Brenner,CFP® [Founder]

In this episode of The Smarter Planner Podcast, host Belle Osvath, CFP®, welcomes Erik Brenner, President and CEO of Hilltop Wealth and Tax Solutions. Erik shares how his firm has adopted a "personal CFO" approach inspired by the traditional family office model historically reserved for ultra-wealthy families and adapted it for middle-income clients who face increasingly complex financial decisions. Rather than focusing solely on investment management, Erik and his team integrate in-house tax planning, accounting services, and estate coordination into a centralized advisory experience. The goal: simplify the financial lives of clients while proactively mitigating their largest long-term expense; taxes. Erik also outlines the operational realities of launching a tax division including hiring the right talent, acquiring existing practices, and aligning incentives so the tax business becomes sustainable rather than a loss leader. As advisory services continue to evolve, Erik challenges planners to consider where the industry will be five years from now and whether asset management alone will be enough to stand out. Guest Links Website: https://hilltopwealthtax.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikbrenner Recommend a Podcast Guest 👉 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PWXHTV7 The Smarter Planner Podcast is produced by the Financial Planning Association National Capital Area Chapter (FPA NCA) for educational purposes only. Belle Osvath and FPA NCA do not endorse specific individuals or services mentioned.

March 4, 202651 min

CE Credit Episode: Manager Skill, ESG Data, and the Decisions That Drive Long-Term Returns

In this 1 CE-credit episode, host Belle Osvath, CFP® explores two critical components of modern investment analysis: how to evaluate portfolio managers and how ESG data fits into long-term risk and return. In the first conversation, David Marra, founder and managing director of Markin Asset Management, shares a disciplined framework for identifying skilled portfolio managers. He explains how advisors can distinguish true investment skill from luck, evaluate risk management capabilities, and understand the importance of transparency in active management. In the second half of the episode, Liz Simmie, co-founder of Honeytree Investment Management, discusses why ESG data should be treated as core investment intelligence, not a niche screening tool. She explores common misconceptions about ESG investing and explains how environmental, social, and governance data can help identify long-term business risks and opportunities. Listen to the full episode, complete the assessment, and earn 1 CE credit. CE Credit Instructions Listen to the full episode Take the quiz: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FPANCASmarterPlannerPodcast_Quiz Receive 1 CE credit upon completion Links & Resources Part One: David Marra — Evaluating Portfolio Manager Skill David Marra shares a practical framework advisors can use to evaluate portfolio managers and determine whether investment performance reflects skill, strategy, or market exposure. Key topics include: • Why manager selection remains one of the most valuable services advisors provide • Starting with risk metrics such as volatility, maximum drawdown, and downside risk • Evaluating alpha and performance net of fees • Using factor models to separate skill from luck • Assessing the repeatability of an investment process • Why direct conversations with portfolio managers reveal important insights about risk management Key takeaway: Advisors who build portfolios using carefully selected managers can provide differentiated value and better client outcomes. Links Markin Asset Management linkedin.com/in/david-marra-8693b44 Part Two: Liz Simmie — ESG Data and Long-Term Investment Risk Liz Simmie explains why ESG data should be viewed as fundamental business information, not simply an ethical overlay or constraint. Key topics include: • How ESG data such as employee turnover, governance structure, and supply chain diversity impacts financial performance • The history of values-aligned and responsible investing • Why ESG investing is often misunderstood as a return trade-off • How ESG insights can help identify long-term corporate resilience • Honeytree's quantamental investment approach, combining quantitative analysis with fundamental research Key takeaway: Many investors interested in ESG are not sacrificing returns—they are seeking to avoid hidden long-term risks tied to governance, environmental impact, and workforce practices. Links • Honeytree Investment Management • Honeytree ETF — Ticker: BEEZ • linkedin.com/in/liz-simmie-2b59173 Disclaimer The information provided in the Smarter Planner Podcast is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered investment, legal, tax, or other professional advice. The views and opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Financial Planning Association National Capital Area (FPA NCA), its board, or its affiliates. FPA NCA does not endorse or recommend any individuals, firms, products, or services mentioned in this podcast. Listeners should consult with a qualified professional before making financial decisions.

February 18, 202625 min

Engaging the Next Generation Through Today's Housing Market - Leo Anzoleaga [Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist]

In this episode of The Smarter Planner Podcast, host Belle Osvath, CFP®, welcomes Leo Anzoleaga, Senior Vice President of Residential Lending at Luminate Bank. Leo breaks down what's really happening in today's housing market, from fluctuating mortgage rates to persistent inventory shortages, and how these dynamics are impacting buyers across different stages of life. He explains why today's real estate environment cannot be painted with a single national brush and how regional factors, hybrid work models, and demographic shifts continue to shape local markets. More importantly, Leo shares how a Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist approaches lending differently. Rather than treating a mortgage as a standalone transaction, he views it as an integrated part of a client's overall financial plan aligned with taxes, investments, estate planning, and long-term goals. Leo also shares real-world case studies of how mortgage modeling can help advisors quantify opportunity costs and provide clients with neutral, data-driven decision frameworks. For advisors looking to integrate mortgage strategy into their planning conversations—and deepen collaboration with lending professionals—this episode offers actionable insights. Guest Links Website: https://www.luminate.bank LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leoanzoleaga Recommend a Podcast Guest 👉 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PWXHTV7 _____________________________________________________________________________ The Smarter Planner Podcast is produced by the Financial Planning Association National Capital Area Chapter (FPA NCA) for educational purposes only. Belle Osvath and FPA NCA do not endorse specific individuals or services mentioned.