This milestone episode celebrates 30 years of professional growth and client success, highlighting the dynamic evolution of the financial planning profession and the firm’s commitment to innovation and excellence.

Five Key Takeaways:

1. The Evolution of a Career in Financial Planning:
   Growth and succession is vital for a long-lasting impact. Lyle Benson introduces his son Chris. Chris Benson shares his journey from aspiring engineer to CPA financial planner, highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including his transition from a large CPA firm to the family firm.
2. The Critical Role of Tax Planning:
   Tax returns form the foundation of the firm’s financial planning process. Tax strategy is woven into every aspect of wealth management, creating a seamless, cyclical approach to client service.
3. Fixed Fees vs. AUM Model:
   The firm operates on a fixed-fee model, aligning services with client value while minimizing conflicts of interest, offering an alternative to traditional AUM-based fees.
4. Technology Transforming the Profession:
   Advances in technology, such as digital systems and portfolio management tools, have revolutionized client service and firm efficiency. AI is seen as an augmentation tool rather than a replacement for human advisors.
5. The Value of Community and Professional Networks:
   Active involvement in organizations like the AICPA and peer study groups has provided invaluable support, resources, and growth opportunities for both Chris and the firm.

Access resources related to this podcast: Note: If you’re using a podcast app that does not hyperlink to the resources, visit Libsyn (PFP) to access show notes with direct links.

• Innovative Technology for Integrated Tax and Financial Planning
• Building a financial planning and tax business
• Investment advisory business models
• Build your tax and financial planning advisory services
• PFP/PFS Drop-in Session - February 26, 2025, at 3pm ET
• Listen to other episodes in the Deeper CPA Financial Planner Connections podcast series.

This episode is brought to you by the AICPA’s Personal Financial Planning Section, the premier provider of information, tools, advocacy, and guidance for professionals who specialize in providing tax, estate, retirement, risk management and investment planning advice. Also, by the CPA/PFS credential program, which allows CPAs to demonstrate competence and confidence in providing these services to their clients. Visit us online at www.aicpa.org/pfp to join our community, gain access to valuable member-only benefits or learn about our PFP certificate program.

Subscribe to the PFP Podcast channel at Libsyn to find all the latest episodes or search “AICPA Personal Financial Planning” on your favorite podcast app.

In this episode, Cary Sinnet and Mark Gochnour explore how effective communication builds trust and sets financial planners apart. Mark introduces the 4S Framework—a powerful tool for connecting with clients and simplifying complex concepts.

Key Takeaways

1. Why Communication Matters:
   • Builds trust, fosters engagement, and differentiates you from competitors.
   • Avoid overloading clients with technical jargon or unnecessary details.
2. 4S Framework for Communication:
   • Scripts: Prepare and practice concise responses to common questions.
   • Stories: Share personal anecdotes to build emotional connections.
   • Sketches: Use visual aids to explain concepts and engage clients.
   • Supplements: Provide tangible materials to reinforce discussions.
3. Actionable Insights:
   • Tailor your language to clients’ needs and practice regularly.
   • Join workshops at the AICPA PFP Summit in January to refine your storytelling and communication skills.

Access resources and events related to this podcast: Note: If you’re using a podcast app that does not hyperlink to the resources, visit Libsyn (PFP) to access show notes with direct links.

• AICPA PFP Summit: January 26–29, 2025, at Dimensional’s Charlotte office.
• Explore communication resources at aicpa.org/pfp.

This episode is brought to you by the AICPA’s Personal Financial Planning Section, the premier provider of information, tools, advocacy and guidance for professionals who specialize in providing tax, estate, retirement, risk management and investment planning advice. Also, by the CPA/PFS credential program, which allows CPAs to demonstrate competence and confidence in providing these services to their clients. Visit us online at www.aicpa.org/pfp to join our community, gain access to valuable member-only benefits or learn about our PFP certificate program.

Subscribe to the PFP Podcast channel at Libsyn to find all the latest episodes or search “AICPA Personal Financial Planning” on your favorite podcast app.

Mark Astrinos and David Oransky discuss Bitcoin's role in modern investing, addressing its speculative nature, practical uses, and potential as a long-term store of value. They explore how advisors and clients can approach Bitcoin thoughtfully, balancing skepticism with understanding.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Foundations of Investing:
   • Saving vs. investing and the speculative nature of all assets.
   • Bitcoin’s similarities to "digital gold" and its unique network benefits.
2. Bitcoin’s Role in Portfolios:
   • How Bitcoin compares to traditional assets like stocks, bonds, and gold.
   • Its potential as an inflation hedge and long-term store of value.
3. Practical Applications:
   • Bitcoin enables global, permissionless transactions and portable wealth.
   • Its scarcity-driven dynamics make it appealing amid fiat currency concerns.
4. ETFs and Adoption:
   • Bitcoin ETFs simplify access for investors and advisors.
   • Direct ownership offers unique benefits but requires technical knowledge.

Key Takeaways:

• Advisors should educate themselves about Bitcoin’s potential as a legitimate asset class.
• Even a small allocation to Bitcoin may offer diversification and inflation protection.
• Start with reputable resources like Fidelity and BlackRock or AICPA's PFP Division materials.

Resources Available:

A three part deep dive into bitcoin is available:

• Why you need to take Bitcoin seriously - part 1
• Why you need to take Bitcoin seriously - part 2
• Why you need to take Bitcoin seriously - part 3.

A video with slides

• Understanding Bitcoin.