The Efficient Advisor: Tactical Business Advice for Financial Planners

Hosted by Libby Greiwe

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377

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Ever wish you knew an Advisor who built a 7-figure practice--while only working 3 days a week--that was willing to share her systems, processes, and business hacks with you? Meet the Efficient Advisor Podcast host Libby Greiwe. Her specialty? Breaking down the functions of a financial planning practice into actionable step-by-step processes designed to get you results and get you out of overwhelm. Expert interviews, done-for-you templates, and easy to implement solutions… all tied together by her MISSION to create ease in your business. She promises to deliver actionable step-by-step solutions you can implement right away to save time, money, and frustration. The goal--to lead you from overwhelm to efficiency. She started her own financial planning business in 2004. And, over the years she scaled into a 7-figure single-advisor firm while working only 25-hours a week so she could be super involved while raising her kiddos and loving on her hubby. She knows what it takes to build a 100% referral-only practice and to not have to GRIND out the hours to be successful. She ran her own planning business for 16 years culminating in a sale to an enterprise firm in 2019. Now, she’s simply just obsessed with helping other amazing advisors do the same thing. So if you’re an advisor who’s got the hang of planning and is now looking to grow to that first 500k of take-home pay… you are in the right place!

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60 recent

June 16, 202638 min

378: The 100+ Hour Time Hack For Investment Management

What if you could get back 100 to 200+ hours a year without sacrificing the quality of your investment management?In this episode, Libby sits down with Darol Ryan, Managing Partner of Main Management, to discuss one of the biggest hidden time drains in many advisory firms: portfolio management. From researching investments and preparing for review meetings to managing custom portfolios and rebalancing accounts, advisors often spend countless hours on work that may no longer be the highest and best use of their time. Together, they explore how custom model portfolios can help advisors create scale, increase consistency, and free up valuable time to focus on clients, planning, growth, and life outside the office.In this episode, you'll learn:How advisors are saving 100–200+ hours per year by moving from individually managed portfolios to scalable model-based investment managementWhy custom portfolio management often becomes the bottleneck that prevents firms from growing beyond certain asset and client thresholdsHow custom advisor models are built and tailored to fit your investment philosophy, client base, and unique planning needsWhy the future value of financial advisors lies in relationships, behavioral coaching, tax planning, and financial advice—not spending weekends researching investmentsIf you've ever found yourself spending nights, weekends, or entire weeks preparing portfolio reviews, researching investments, or managing dozens of portfolio variations, this conversation will challenge you to rethink where your time is best spent. As technology and AI continue to reshape the industry, the advisors who thrive will be the ones who create efficient systems behind the scenes so they can spend more time doing what clients truly value most.Book a call to have custom portfolios build for your business HERE! Email Darol Ryan directly here: Ryan@mainmgt.comCheck out The First 100 Days Course: The Advisor's Blueprint for a Remarkable Client Experience HERE!Learn more about T2MWorks HERE! Learn more about Asset-Map financial planning software HERE! Learn more about our sponsor Beemo Automation HERE! Check out the Efficient Advisor YouTube Channel HERE!Connect with Libby on LinkedIn HERE!Successful businesses don’t get built alone. You need community! You need collaboration! Join us in The Efficient Advisor Community on Facebook.

June 12, 202610 min

377: The CEO Day Mistake Most Advisors Make

As the end of the quarter approaches and the halfway point of the year comes into focus, many advisors are planning CEO Days to step back and think strategically about their businesses. But before you jump into goal-setting, planning, and big-picture thinking, there’s one important step that can dramatically improve the quality of your strategic work. In this episode, Libby shares why an Admin Day—or at least a few dedicated admin hours—should come before every CEO Day and how clearing mental clutter creates the space for better decisions, deeper thinking, and more productive strategy sessions.In this episode, you'll learn:Why an Admin Day is the prerequisite to an effective CEO DayHow physical and digital clutter impacts your ability to think strategicallyWhy working through lingering tasks often uncovers the biggest opportunities for improvement in your businessA simple process for clearing the runway so you can maximize your CEO timeStrategic thinking requires space, focus, and clarity—and those things are hard to access when your brain is juggling unfinished tasks and mental to-do lists. Before your next CEO Day, give yourself permission to spend some time clearing the decks first. You may be surprised how much more productive, insightful, and valuable your strategic planning becomes when you remove the noise and create room to think like a CEO.Check out The First 100 Days Course: The Advisor's Blueprint for a Remarkable Client Experience HERE!Learn more about T2MWorks HERE! Learn more about Asset-Map financial planning software HERE! Learn more about our sponsor Beemo Automation HERE! Check out the Efficient Advisor YouTube Channel HERE!Connect with Libby on LinkedIn HERE!Successful businesses don’t get built alone. You need community! You need collaboration! Join us in The Efficient Advisor Community on Facebook.

June 9, 202634 min

376: The 4 Numbers That Reveal If Your Practice Is Actually Getting More Efficient *FREE DOWNLOAD** (Replay)

Efficiency is one of the most common goals financial advisors share, but very few can actually define what it means—or measure it. In this episode, Libby challenges the traditional metrics advisors often use to gauge success and introduces four simple KPIs that provide a much clearer picture of productivity, efficiency, and scalability. If you've ever wondered whether you're truly building a business that gives you more freedom, more impact, and better results without simply working longer hours, this episode will help you start tracking what really matters.In this episode, you'll learn:How to calculate your revenue per hour and why it's a more meaningful metric than revenue growth aloneThe client-facing ratio that reveals where your biggest opportunities for efficiency are hidingA simple framework for evaluating the impact of your value-add activities and client experience initiativesWhy tracking referrals can uncover the health of your client experience, service model, and planning processWhether you're a solo advisor or leading a growing team, these four KPIs can help you shift from working harder to working smarter. By focusing on the metrics you can actually influence, you'll gain clearer insight into where your time is going, what's creating the most value for clients, and how to build a more scalable practice. Be sure to download the free KPI tracker mentioned in the episode and start measuring your progress.Grab your Free KPI Download HERE! Check out The First 100 Days Course: The Advisor's Blueprint for a Remarkable Client Experience HERE!Learn more about T2MWorks HERE! Learn more about Asset-Map financial planning software HERE! Learn more about our sponsor Beemo Automation HERE! Check out the Efficient Advisor YouTube Channel HERE!Connect with Libby on LinkedIn HERE!Successful businesses don’t get built alone. You need community! You need collaboration! Join us in The Efficient Advisor Community on Facebook.

June 5, 2026Episode 37512 min

375: The 3 Ritz-Carlton Client Experience Secrets Every Advisor Should Steal

If you've been listening to the podcast lately, you know we've been talking a lot about client experience, onboarding, and the first 100 days. And this week, I’m coming to you from the Ritz-Carlton in Chicago, where I’m speaking at a conference and taking notes on one of the most recognized customer experience brands in the world. As I’ve watched the little details and thoughtful touches that make the Ritz-Carlton experience so memorable, I couldn’t help but think about how easily many of those same principles can be applied inside an advisory firm. In this episode, I’m breaking down three specific Ritz-Carlton practices that advisors can use to create more memorable, consistent, and remarkable client experiences.In this episode, you'll learn:How the Ritz-Carlton’s famous $2,000 Rule empowers employees to solve problems, create memorable moments, and deliver exceptional service without waiting for management approvalWhy capturing client preferences and personal details is only half the battle—and how to actually use that information to strengthen relationships and deepen client loyaltyHow daily service meetings at the Ritz create consistency across the organization and how advisors can incorporate client experience discussions into their own team meetingsThe three foundational pillars of a remarkable client experience: empowering your team, collecting meaningful client intelligence, and creating processes that ensure consistence.The best client experiences don’t happen by accident. The Ritz-Carlton has built a reputation for excellence by intentionally empowering employees, documenting client preferences, and creating systems that reinforce exceptional service every day. The good news is that you don’t need a luxury hotel budget to apply these principles. Small, thoughtful actions backed by strong processes can help your clients feel seen, known, and valued—and that’s what creates loyalty, referrals, and lasting relationships.Check out The First 100 Days Course: The Advisor's Blueprint for a Remarkable Client Experience HERE!Learn more about T2MWorks HERE! Learn more about Asset-Map financial planning software HERE! Learn more about our sponsor Beemo Automation HERE! Check out the Efficient Advisor YouTube Channel HERE!Connect with Libby on LinkedIn HERE!Successful businesses don’t get built alone. You need community! You need collaboration! Join us in The Efficient Advisor Community on Facebook.

June 2, 2026Episode 37448 min

374: Alternatives Don’t Have to Be Complicated: A Streamlined Way to Offer Private Investing

In this episode, Libby sits down with Summer Webb from American Estate & Trust to unpack what alternatives actually are, why more advisors are exploring them, and how firms can offer these types of investments in a more streamlined and compliant way. Whether you're completely new to alternatives or already managing some private investments for clients, this conversation helps demystify the process and explores what it can look like to bring more sophisticated solutions into your practice without losing efficiency.In this episode, you will learn:What “alternative investments” actually include — from private equity and real estate to crypto, precious metals, and private creditWhy more everyday clients (not just ultra-high-net-worth investors) are asking advisors about alternativesHow advisors can potentially retain more wallet share by staying involved in private investment conversations instead of sending clients elsewhereWhat it looks like operationally and compliantly to offer alternatives through a specialized custodial partner without adding unnecessary complexity to your businessIf you’ve ever felt curious about alternatives but assumed they were too complicated, too niche, or only for massive family offices, this episode offers a really interesting behind-the-scenes look at how the landscape is changing. Libby and Summer explore the balance between sophistication and simplicity, and how advisors can continue evolving their businesses while still maintaining the efficiency and client experience they’ve worked so hard to build.Learn more about AET here! Download this fascinating fact sheet on Alternatives here!Check out The First 100 Days Course: The Advisor's Blueprint for a Remarkable Client Experience HERE!Learn more about T2MWorks HERE! Learn more about Asset-Map financial planning software HERE! Learn more about our sponsor Beemo Automation HERE! Check out the Efficient Advisor YouTube Channel HERE!Connect with Libby on LinkedIn HERE!Successful businesses don’t get built alone. You need community! You need collaboration! Join us in The Efficient Advisor Community on Facebook.

May 29, 2026Episode 37323 min

373: The Onboarding Client Experience Hack I Stole from Domino’s Pizza

When onboarding feels chaotic behind the scenes, clients feel it too. In this episode, Libby breaks down one of the simplest yet most powerful systems she ever implemented to reduce client anxiety, improve communication, and create a more professional onboarding experience: the weekly client update email, also known as the “Domino’s Pizza Tracker” for your practice. Drawing from real-world lessons and a major onboarding mishap, she shares how proactive communication can completely transform how clients experience those critical first 30 days.You’ll hear practical ways to keep clients informed without overwhelming them, how to create more accountability inside your team, and why consistency matters so much when building trust during large money movements and account transitions. If your onboarding process sometimes feels messy, reactive, or stressful, this episode will help you create a system that feels smoother for everyone involved.In this episode you’ll learn:Why proactive weekly communication dramatically reduces client anxiety during onboardingHow to structure a simple “Domino’s Pizza Tracker” email your clients will loveThe internal systems and workflows that keep onboarding organized and prevent things from falling through the cracksBest practices for timing, consistency, delegation, and setting expectations during the first 30 days of the client experienceThis episode is packed with simple but highly effective ideas that can immediately elevate your onboarding experience without adding a ton of extra work. If you want clients to feel informed, confident, and cared for from day one, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Check out The First 100 Days Course: The Advisor's Blueprint for a Remarkable Client Experience HERE!Learn more about T2MWorks HERE! Learn more about Asset-Map financial planning software HERE! Learn more about our sponsor Beemo Automation HERE! Check out the Efficient Advisor YouTube Channel HERE!Connect with Libby on LinkedIn HERE!Successful businesses don’t get built alone. You need community! You need collaboration! Join us in The Efficient Advisor Community on Facebook.

May 26, 2026Episode 37218 min

372: The Client Onboarding Script That Stops Transfer Drama Before It Starts

In this episode, we’re diving into one what can be one of the biggest friction points of the onboarding process: helping clients gracefully leave their previous financial advisor. While most advisors focus on paperwork and transfers, this conversation is all about the psychology behind the transition and how small process tweaks can dramatically reduce friction, hesitation, and transfer delays. You’ll learn how to create a more concierge-level onboarding experience by equipping clients with the language, confidence, and support they need during a vulnerable stage of the relationship.In this episode you will learn:• Why the “breaking up with your advisor” conversation creates emotional friction for clients• How to proactively reduce transfer delays and prevent previous advisors from creating doubt• The exact type of email scripts and language that help clients navigate the transition with confidence• How thoughtful onboarding touches like this build trust, improve client experience, and generate more referralsThis episode is a powerful reminder that the little things inside your onboarding process matter more than you think. By anticipating emotional roadblocks and giving clients the tools to navigate them, you create a smoother transition, reduce unnecessary friction, and reinforce that they made the right decision in choosing to work with you. Sometimes the most impactful client experience upgrades are also the simplest to implement.AND DON’T FORGET TO GRAB YOUR FREE BREAK UP SCRIPT HERE! Check out The First 100 Days Course: The Advisor's Blueprint for a Remarkable Client Experience HERE!Learn more about T2MWorks HERE! Learn more about Asset-Map financial planning software HERE! Learn more about our sponsor Beemo Automation HERE! Check out the Efficient Advisor YouTube Channel HERE!Connect with Libby on LinkedIn HERE!Successful businesses don’t get built alone. You need community! You need collaboration! Join us in The Efficient Advisor Community on Facebook.

May 22, 2026Episode 37122 min

371: Curious About The First 100 Days Course? Here’s Exactly What’s Inside

In today’s episode, Libby breaks down exactly what The First 100 Days course is, who it’s designed for, and why a remarkable onboarding experience can completely transform a financial advisory business. From creating smoother operations to increasing referrals and client retention, this episode gives advisors a behind-the-scenes look at how intentional onboarding impacts every stage of the client relationship.In this episode, you’ll learn:What The First 100 Days course actually includes and how it worksWhy most onboarding processes aren’t broken — but still aren’t memorableHow intentional onboarding improves referrals, retention, and client satisfactionThe difference between the Fast Track and Full Course experienceLibby walks through the full structure of the course, including the psychology behind client onboarding, the three onboarding phases, and how advisors can create a process that feels both efficient and deeply personal. She also shares how advisors are using the framework to streamline operations, delegate more effectively, and create a client experience that consistently stands out.Whether you’re a brand-new advisor building your systems from scratch or an established firm ready to elevate your client experience, this episode offers practical insight into creating an onboarding process that builds trust from day one.Check out The First 100 Days Course: The Advisor's Blueprint for a Remarkable Client Experience HERE!Learn more about T2MWorks HERE! Learn more about Asset-Map financial planning software HERE! Learn more about our sponsor Beemo Automation HERE! Check out the Efficient Advisor YouTube Channel HERE!Connect with Libby on LinkedIn HERE!Successful businesses don’t get built alone. You need community! You need collaboration! Join us in The Efficient Advisor Community on Facebook.

May 19, 2026Episode 37054 min

370: Never Lose A Customer Again - Author Joey Coleman is Here!

The GOAT is here!!! If you’ve ever referenced client experience, onboarding, or retention in your business, you’ve probably already felt his influence. This conversation goes deep into why the first 100 days matter more than most advisors realize, and why so many businesses are leaking clients before they ever have a chance to become long-term relationships. If you’ve ever thought “our onboarding is fine,” this episode might challenge that in the best possible way.Why the first 100 days determine whether a client stays for five years or quietly walks awayThe eight phases of the client journey—and where most advisory firms completely drop the ballSimple, practical ways to create a remarkable client experience (even in a virtual world)How small, intentional touches can accelerate referrals before you’ve even “proven” your valueThis is one of those conversations that hits both strategically and tactically. It reinforces that client experience isn’t about big, flashy overhauls—it’s about intentional, repeatable moments that make people feel seen, known, and confident in their decision to work with you. If you’re serious about building a referral-driven practice and increasing client lifetime value, this is the kind of episode you don’t just listen to—you implement.Check out The First 100 Days Course: The Advisor's Blueprint for a Remarkable Client Experience HERE!Learn more about T2MWorks HERE! Learn more about Asset-Map financial planning software HERE! Learn more about our sponsor Beemo Automation HERE! Check out the Efficient Advisor YouTube Channel HERE!Connect with Libby on LinkedIn HERE!Successful businesses don’t get built alone. You need community! You need collaboration! Join us in The Efficient Advisor Community on Facebook.

May 15, 2026Episode 36925 min

369: My $2 Million Dollar Mistake… and How to Fix it with Onboarding

Today’s episode is a powerful reminder that even the best financial planning recommendations can be overshadowed by a broken onboarding experience. Libby shares the story of how a process mistake during a client onboarding led to losing a nearly $2 million account — and the lessons advisors can take away to create smoother, more intentional client experiences during the first 100 days.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why the first 100 days of a client relationship are emotionally criticalHow undocumented processes create friction, mistakes, and lost revenueWhat advisors can do to reduce client anxiety during onboardingHow intentional touchpoints can increase referrals, retention, and client satisfactionLibby walks through the real-life experience of losing a major client due to small operational breakdowns and explains how that moment became the catalyst for building a more structured onboarding process. She also shares how advisors can shift from “winging it” to creating a repeatable, high-touch experience that clients remember.If your onboarding process feels reactive instead of intentional, this episode will give you practical insight into creating a smoother experience for both your clients and your team.Check out The First 100 Days Course: The Advisor's Blueprint for a Remarkable Client Experience HERE!Learn more about T2MWorks HERE! Learn more about Asset-Map financial planning software HERE! Learn more about our sponsor Beemo Automation HERE! Check out the Efficient Advisor YouTube Channel HERE!Connect with Libby on LinkedIn HERE!Successful businesses don’t get built alone. You need community! You need collaboration! Join us in The Efficient Advisor Community on Facebook.