In this episode of The Purpose-Focused Advisor, Rob sits down with Mitchell Kraus, a fourth-generation financial professional and founder of Capital Intelligence Associates. Mitchell brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for helping clients lead meaningful lives through purpose-driven financial planning and philanthropy. Mitchell shares his unique approach to wealth management, blending continuous learning with a heartfelt commitment to his clients. From navigating multi-generational business dynamics to inspiring impactful charitable giving, Mitchell embodies the spirit of a true purpose-focused advisor.

Key Takeaways:

• Asking Deep Questions to Build Meaningful Client Relationships (06:23) – Building strong client relationships starts with understanding their values, goals, and unique circumstances through intentional and thoughtful questioning.
• Understanding Wealth as More Than Finances (09:11) – True wealth encompasses social, physical, and emotional well-being, not just financial assets.
• The Power of Philanthropy to Inspire Joy and Growth (15:07) – Integrating charitable giving into financial plans can inspire joy, purpose, and even financial growth for clients.
• Overcoming Capacity Challenges with Technology and Team Building (27:51) – Leveraging technology and building a team can help advisors focus on what they do best—serving clients with excellence.
• The Importance of Continuous Learning in a Changing Industry (31:19) – Staying updated and curious in a rapidly evolving financial landscape is critical for serving clients effectively.

Mitchell Kraus: "There is so much more to wealth than financial wealth. It’s about creating joy, not just more stuff.”

Rob Brown: "In a world that’s always changing, staying curious and committed to growth is how we keep leading the way for our clients.”

About Mitchell Kraus: Mitchell Kraus has been helping clients plan for their financial future since 1993. He and his father, Arthur, established Capital Intelligence Associates in 2003 as a comprehensive resource for independent, unbiased advice and trusted financial guidance. Mitchell is passionate about helping his clients live their best lives and is the host of the Giving Intelligence Podcast, where he delves into his passion for philanthropic planning.

Connect with Mitchell Kraus:

Website: https://www.capintelligence.com/

Email: mkraus@capintelligence.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchellkraus/

Episode References:

• Truest Fan Coaching
• Business Optimization Scorecard

Connect with Rob Brown:

Website: http://truestfan.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/truestfan/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@truestfancoaching

In this episode of The Purpose Focused Advisor, Rob Brown welcomes Whit Lanier, founder of Amplify Reviews, to discuss how financial advisors can leverage client testimonials and endorsements to enhance their marketing strategies. Whit shares insights into the SEC’s updated marketing rule, which now allows compliant use of client reviews. The episode is packed with actionable advice for advisors to build trust, strengthen client relationships, and gain a competitive edge.

Key Takeaways:

• SEC Marketing Rule Explained (02:28) – Whit breaks down the November 2022 SEC guidelines that now permit testimonials and endorsements for advisors, highlighting compliance best practices.
• Overcoming Hesitations (07:51) – Advisors often resist reviews due to regulatory concerns or fear of feedback. Whit explains why this is the perfect opportunity to gain a competitive edge.
• The Power of Reviews (12:45) – Asking for feedback strengthens client relationships and uncovers valuable insights that can improve client service.
• Lessons from Healthcare (15:01) – Whit shares his experience introducing reviews in the healthcare industry and the positive impact it had on doctors’ practices.
• Immediate Benefits of Reviews (25:41) – Reviews improve SEO, increase referral conversions, and position advisors as trusted experts online.

Whit Lanier: "People like working with people they know. A great review bridges that gap."

Rob Brown: "Asking for feedback isn’t just about reviews—it’s about showing clients you care what they think."

About Whit Lanier: Whit Lanier is the CEO and co-founder of Amplify Reviews – a platform focused on helping financial advisors embrace online reviews on their own terms. A serial entrepreneur, Whit’s previous start-up was the leading healthcare technology vendor that enabled hospitals to publish verified patient ratings and reviews. That company was acquired at the end of 2014, and by 2021 the platform had processed over 60 million patient reviews for 400 of the country’s largest health systems.

Connect with Whit Lanier:

Website: https://www.amplifyreviews.com/

Email: whit@amplifyreviews.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitlanier/

Episode References:

• Truest Fan Coaching
• Business Optimization Scorecard

Connect with Rob Brown & Phil Calandra:

Website: http://truestfan.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/truestfan/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@truestfancoaching

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/truestfan

In this heartfelt Thanksgiving special of The Purpose Focused Advisor, Rob Brown, and Phil Calandra discuss how gratitude can transform life and business. They highlight how being thankful can lead to growth, strengthen relationships, and encourage purpose-focused leadership. Sharing their own traditions and moments of gratitude, Rob and Phil offer valuable insights and practical strategies for leading with purpose. This episode emphasizes gratitude as a key to achieving a fulfilling and successful life, both personally and professionally.

Key Takeaways:

• Journaling Gratitude Daily (03:26) — Journaling what you’re thankful for not only uplifts your mood but also helps you focus on purpose-driven actions.
• Gratitude is a Growth Strategy (14:07) — Expressing genuine appreciation to clients and team members fosters trust, loyalty, and motivation—key drivers for personal and professional growth.
• Clients First (17:05) — Handwritten notes and charitable gifts in clients’ honor are simple yet powerful ways to show gratitude and strengthen bonds.
• Gratitude for Team Members (18:31) — A culture of gratitude within your team boosts morale and motivates everyone to perform at their best.
• The Gratitude Challenge (21:33) — Commit to 30 days of intentional gratitude, whether by creating a gratitude list, posting on social media, or having personal conversations to express appreciation.

Rob Brown: "When you focus on your purpose, everything else follows, including profits."

Phil Calandra: "If you're expressing gratitude, it's not just towards your clients; you better be telling your team you're grateful as well."

Episode References:

• Truest Fan Coaching
• Business Optimization Scorecard

Connect with Rob Brown & Phil Calandra:

Website: http://truestfan.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/truestfan/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@truestfancoaching

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/truestfan