Digital communication has largely replaced traditional communication, but putting pen to paper still holds deep and timeless meaning. The simplicity and sincerity encapsulated within a handwritten letter are unparalleled, transcending the boundaries of modernity. Despite instant messaging and emails, handwritten notes are a remarkable way to convey…

Alphabetallica theme composer, Alex Cottrell, joins the show to dig into the spaghetti sizzle of 'High Plains Drifter'. Help support the show and get check out Alphabetallica's new So What! Files video series, exploring every issue of Metallica's legendary magazine: https://patreon.com/alphabetallica SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Kg8m3ITv…

The transition of ownership within a firm can be a challenging process for both clients and advisors alike. It's at this point where the delicate balance of trust, transparency, and open communication becomes so important. While a change in ownership or leadership can stir feelings of uncertainty and concern, advisors who have established trust and…

Alphabetallica listener, John Taylor, joins the show to dig into the pandemonium pounce of 'The Jinn'. Help support the show and get check out Alphabetallica's new So What! Files video series, exploring every issue of Metallica's legendary magazine: https://patreon.com/alphabetallica SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Kg8m3ITvmNpdpjvvo8JI8?si=…

Advisors, much like educators, understand the importance of clear communication. They attempt to simplify complex concepts without diluting their essence. Pursuing this solution drives advisors to explore innovative ways to engage, educate, and empower their clients. In this episode, Steve talks with Ross Riskin, Chief Learning Officer at Investmen…

Tom is joined by Emmy Award-winning American composer, conductor, and orchestrator, Blake Neely, for an enlightening chat about his storied history with Metallica which began during S&M and continues today via his contribution to 'Portal's spellbinding opener, 'Maiden and the Monster'. Help support the show and check out Alphabetallica's new So Wha…

Numbers can often obscure the essence of wealth. However, the heart of wealth management lies in the stories, dreams, and aspirations of the individuals underlying the figures. In this episode, Steve talks with Michael Mahoney, Owner of Cypress Asset Management. Before becoming a wealth manager, Michael had a successful business in commercial insur…

Tom hosts solo to kick off a brand new Alphabetallica series dissecting Kirk's 'Portals' EP. This episode begins by exploring some of the back story of the release, before digging into the gloriously girthy gloom of the EP's opener, 'The Maiden & The Monster'. Help support the show and check out Alphabetallica's new So What! Files video series, exp…

MUYP icon, Clint Wells, joins the show to dig into the elegiac egress of 'Inamorata' Help support the show and get check out Alphabetallica's new So What! Files video series, exploring every issue of Metallica's legendary magazine: https://patreon.com/alphabetallica Check out Metal Up Your Podcast here if you somehow aren't already on the train: ME…

As a new breed of investors emerges, they bring with them unique perspectives, aspirations, and ambitions. This tech-savvy and forward-thinking generation demands a level of engagement and planning that is far more in-depth and tailored to their specific circumstances and goals. In this episode, Steve talks with Andy Krafft, Financial Planner at Lu…

For consumers, making a purchase is simple, but behind the scenes, payment processing depends on a complex system of operations between banks and merchants. There must be a methodical, traceable trail connecting transactions to card issuers, consumer bank accounts and businesses. In order to juggle the task of processing and recording billions of d…

Alphabetallica listener, Božo Lugonja, joins the show to dig into the introspective racket of 'Room Of Mirrors' Help support the show and get check out Alphabetallica's new So What! Files video series, exploring every issue of Metallica's legendary magazine: https://patreon.com/alphabetallica SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Kg8m3ITvmNpdpjvv…

Trusts have long been essential for wealth management and estate planning, enabling individuals to protect and distribute their assets according to their wishes. However, navigating the trustee industry can sometimes feel like stepping into a maze of legal jargon, complicated procedures, and an array of options that can overwhelm even the most expe…

Constant innovation in the tech industry opens up countless opportunities to ease strain on businesses and their customers, but it can also leave consumers, providers, and legislators struggling to keep up with the field’s evolution. Regulation changes, escalating growth and acquisitions, and introducing additional compliance efforts are just a few…

Alphabetallica listener, Dan McArdle, joins the show to dig into the breakneck bluster of 'Too Far Gone?' Help support the show and get instant access to the next Alphabetallica episode: https://patreon.com/alphabetallica SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Kg8m3ITvmNpdpjvvo8JI8?si=Xxz8xicTQVmSOux_BMuuMQ EMAIL: metallicapod@gmail.com TWITTER: h…

The quest for effective growth strategies in business is a constant endeavor. Entrepreneurs and business owners tirelessly explore various avenues to fuel their enterprises, seeking the holy grail of sustainable growth. While modern marketing channels have expanded exponentially with the rise of social media, search engines, and digital advertising…

Whether we’re buying something online or in-store, the number of payment options we now have at our disposal is enormous. With credit cards and debit cards in both our physical and digital wallets, we no longer need to rely solely on cash or check, and we can even complete transactions with our smartphones or watches. No matter the purchase, we now…

Alphabetallica listener, Jerzy Gwiazdowski, joins Tom to dig into the chiaroscuro clamour of 'If Darkness Had A Son'. Help support the show and get instant access to next week's episode: https://patreon.com/alphabetallica SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Kg8m3ITvmNpdpjvvo8JI8?si=Xxz8xicTQVmSOux_BMuuMQ EMAIL: metallicapod@gmail.com TWITTER: h…

Faith-based and family-centric advisory services offer a refreshing alternative in a world that often compartmentalizes faith and business. This concept goes beyond conventional financial consulting. It delves into the intersection of faith, family, and finance, recognizing that one's religious beliefs play a crucial role in shaping their perspecti…

Alphabetallica listener, John Sturm, joins Tom to dig into the hopeful hurdle of 'Chasing Light'. Help support the show and get instant access to next week's episode: https://patreon.com/alphabetallica SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Kg8m3ITvmNpdpjvvo8JI8?si=Xxz8xicTQVmSOux_BMuuMQ EMAIL: metallicapod@gmail.com TWITTER: https://twitter.com/M…

Manual processes create room for error. For consumers, traditional methods of payment processing can be hard to organize and keep track of. As more industries go paperless, automated digital payment methods create an opportunity to streamline both payments and communication, offering convenience and simplicity for all parties involved. In this epis…

Alphabetallica listener, Bob O'Rourke, joins Tom to dig into the seductive, serpentine sprawl of 'Crown Of Barbed Wire'. Help support the show and get instant access to next week's episode: https://patreon.com/alphabetallica SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Kg8m3ITvmNpdpjvvo8JI8?si=Xxz8xicTQVmSOux_BMuuMQ EMAIL: metallicapod@gmail.com TWITTER…

Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) have long been recognized for their meticulous number-crunching abilities. However, beyond the spreadsheets and balance sheets, the essence of CPA work lies in fostering relationships, providing sound advice, and guiding clients toward financial prosperity. For some, this realization becomes the catalyst for emba…

Alphabetallica listener, Brad Blazek, joins Tom to dig into the dazzling drive of 'Lux Aeterna'. Help support the show and get instant access to next week's episode: https://patreon.com/alphabetallica SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Kg8m3ITvmNpdpjvvo8JI8?si=Xxz8xicTQVmSOux_BMuuMQ EMAIL: metallicapod@gmail.com TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Me…

Buying a car is one of the largest purchases a consumer will make in their lifetime. And while it can be an exciting process, it can also be stressful. Because, traditionally, financing a new automobile has never been a quick and easy process – requiring long applications and complicated repayment methods. And these processes aren’t just a source o…

Traditionally, younger individuals seeking financial advice find themselves entangled in a broken system. They are often required to purchase financial products or services to access professional advice. Unfortunately, this model is inherently flawed, as the advice they receive tends to be biased and skewed toward the products or services offered. …

Alphabetallica listener, Aurelien Moureaux, joins Tom to dig into the somnambulant strut of 'Sleepwalk My Life Away'. Help support the show and get instant access to next week's episode: https://patreon.com/alphabetallica SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Kg8m3ITvmNpdpjvvo8JI8?si=Xxz8xicTQVmSOux_BMuuMQ EMAIL: metallicapod@gmail.com TWITTER: h…

Alphabetallica listener, Aaron Martel , joins Tom to dig into the counter-cancel culture crush of 'You Must Burn!' Help support the show and get instant access to next week's episode: https://patreon.com/alphabetallica Check out Aaron's fantastic 'Ridiculous Rock Record Reviews' podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/ridiculous-rock-record-…

In our first season, we learned how realtime digital payments allowed big enterprises to more accurately (and more efficiently) monitor their cashflows, ensuring suppliers, vendors and partners were paid on time. However, this technology doesn’t just present benefits for B2B relationships. In fact, realtime transactions also provide a convenient so…

Transitions can be challenging for any organization, especially when managing relationships during the succession or sale of an advisory firm. However, as advisors shift to an independent wealth advisory business model due to its unconflicted nature and ability to provide valuable services to clients, mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships are bec…

Alphabetallica listener, Jack Chambers , joins Tom to dig into the throwback throwdown of 'Screaming Suicide'. Help support the show and get instant access to next week's episode: https://patreon.com/alphabetallica SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Kg8m3ITvmNpdpjvvo8JI8?si=Xxz8xicTQVmSOux_BMuuMQ EMAIL: metallicapod@gmail.com TWITTER: https://…

Alphabetallica listener, Rick Nashtag , joins Tom to dig into the primordial pounce of 'Shadows Follow'. Help support the show and get instant access to next week's episode: https://patreon.com/alphabetallica SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Kg8m3ITvmNpdpjvvo8JI8?si=Xxz8xicTQVmSOux_BMuuMQ EMAIL: metallicapod@gmail.com TWITTER: https://twitte…

Sales is the lifeblood of any business. Whether it's a small startup or a multi-national corporation, the ability to generate revenue is critical to long-term success. But selling is about much more than just transactions and making a sale. It involves a slow developing process of building relationships, creating value for clients, and helping them…

Alphabetallica listener, Kevin Van Dam, joins Tom to dig into 72 Seasons' eponymous, devastating opener. Help support the show and get instant access to next week's episode: https://patreon.com/alphabetallica SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Kg8m3ITvmNpdpjvvo8JI8?si=Xxz8xicTQVmSOux_BMuuMQ EMAIL: metallicapod@gmail.com TWITTER: https://twitte…

Life planning and financial planning are two distinct approaches to helping clients achieve their goals and secure their financial futures. While financial planning typically focuses on achieving specific financial milestones, life planning considers broader life goals. By understanding a client's life goals and values, financial advisors can provi…

Relationships are a fundamental aspect of human life. Whether personal or professional, they significantly determine an individual's happiness, success, and fulfillment. While grand gestures may seem impressive in building relationships, it is often the little things that make a lasting impact. In this episode, Steve talks with V.J. Smith, Presiden…

Alphabetallica returns for a brand new '72 Seasons' season! And to kick proceedins off we're digging deep into the monolithic 'S&M2' with long-time friend of the show, John Sturm. If you want to be a guest on Alphabetallica going forward and cover a cover song from 'The Metallica Blacklist', please email metallicapod@gmail.com Hosted by Tom Kwei Th…

In financial services, meaningful relationships matter. Clients want to work with advisors who share their values and understand their goals, are open and authentic about their purpose, and are committed to making a positive impact. In this episode, Steve talks with Ben Walker, Vice President and Head of Global Client Service at Dimensional Fund Ad…

Investing in traditional assets like stocks, bonds, and mutual funds has long been a popular way for people to build wealth. However, as the financial landscape has evolved, investors increasingly seek new and alternative investment opportunities to diversify their portfolios and achieve higher returns. In this episode, Steve talks with Peter Nakad…

In the fast-paced and highly competitive business world, success is often determined by one's ability to grow and adapt to new market trends and demands. For many entrepreneurs and business owners, this growth can be challenging to achieve on their own. What are key strategies and tactics that can help businesses grow and succeed? In this episode, …

As a financial advisor, it is essential to ensure that clients make informed investment decisions that secure their financial futures. However, client behavior, emotions, and biases can often get in the way. These factors can cloud judgment and impact the ability to make smart investment choices. In this episode, Steve talks with Dr. Daniel Crosby,…

Fear can be a powerful emotion that can cripple an investor's ability to make sound investment decisions. Whether it's fear of losing money, fear of missing out on potential gains, or fear of messing up, this emotion can lead to indecision and inaction in the market. How can investors overcome their fear of making investment decisions? In this epis…

As the old saying goes, it’s not what you know but who you know. That is especially true in business, where connections and relationships are key to success. Creating professional partnerships is essential to both individual and organizational success. These relationships provide networking, collaboration, knowledge sharing, and more opportunities.…

Our cars are advancing at an exponential rate, making our journeys faster and safer than ever before. However, for the auto dealership industry, the same can't be said for its payments infrastructure. Many dealership groups still find themselves relying on checks and credit cards to settle accounts, and an even smaller fraction take advantage of AC…

The process of succession planning is difficult enough, but the transition from gen one to gen two of managing an advisory business can be even more challenging. Having different values, goals, and priorities, how can the two generations of advisors make the transition successful? In this episode, Steve talks with Aaron Terwedo, Vice President of F…

There's a fine choreography to keeping a modern business running smoothly. And as organizations have become more complex, innovations, such as ERP, have risen to the challenge to ensure that businesses can operate day in, day out without a hitch. But while ERPs give business owners peace of mind that all arms of their operations are communicating f…

When most people think about their financial future, their first thoughts are about numbers and investments. However, financial planning is about so much more than just money. It's about living with your core values and purpose and making choices and decisions that align with your goals, ethics, and beliefs. In this episode, Steve talks with Nathan…

Standardization is the key to smooth sailing when it comes to payments. Because when all your suppliers, partners, and customers play by the same rules, you don't need to worry about incompatibilities in your finances interrupting your workflow. But, for the media sector, consensus on payment methods is still far from a reality. And for political a…

Most people think of financial planning as crunching numbers and making investment decisions. But in reality, financial planning is about so much more than that. It's about helping people live their best lives. And to do that, having a conversation that goes beyond the numbers is important. In this episode, Steve talks with Jeff Vistica, Wealth Adv…

Hospitals operate in an intricate and delicate financial ecosystem. And while some industries might be able to tolerate small delays in payments - for a hospital, it could mean life or death. Yet, many healthcare providers still function on legacy payment infrastructure, with little to no digital integration in their B2B payment systems. For many h…