Jamie Hopkins is the Executive Vice President and Chief Wealth Officer at WSFS Bank, where he leads the wealth management segment, providing private wealth and trust services to clients through both WSFS Bank and Bryn Mawr Trust. Under Jamie's leadership, WSFS and its associated entities have served clients for over a century, and he has contributed to the financial services industry as an author, educator, and by helping launch over 700 FinServ Foundation fellowships for students.

From inflation and interest rates to housing market stagnation and evolving tax policies, uncertainty seems to be the only constant. How can financial professionals stay grounded while guiding clients through such unpredictable terrain?

According to Jamie Hopkins, a nationally recognized financial educator and thought leader, the key lies in maintaining a long-term perspective amid short-term noise. He emphasizes that inflation is not a one-year issue but a 30-year concern, urging advisors to focus on sustainable financial habits rather than chasing short-term fixes. Jamie highlights that while higher costs and stagnant incomes squeeze Americans, strategic estate planning, diversified wealth management, and proactive communication can help restore confidence.

In this episode of Advisor Today, Chris Gandy sits down with Jamie Hopkins, Executive Vice President and Chief Wealth Officer at WSFS Bank, to discuss navigating economic uncertainty and the evolving financial services landscape. They explore inflation's long-term impact on client behavior, the state of real estate and interest rates, and how AI is reshaping advisory work. Jamie also shares how education, trust, and technology can prepare advisors for the future.

Brian Steiner is the Executive Director of Life Happens, where he is responsible for fostering partner relations and engagement at NAIFA. These organizations are committed to promoting financial literacy and supporting insurance and financial advisors. Under his leadership, Life Happens has successfully distributed over $4 million in scholarships and collaborates on the widely recognized research report, the Insurance Barometer. This partnership underscores its significant influence on both industry professionals and consumers alike.

The financial services industry thrives on relationships, collaboration, and trust. But what does it take to build partnerships that truly strengthen advocacy and elevate the profession as a whole? Beyond selling policies and managing portfolios, how can advisors and leaders work together to create meaningful, lasting change that benefits both clients and colleagues?

According to Brian Steiner, a respected leader in financial services advocacy, the answer lies in deep collaboration and consistent engagement across the industry. He explains that forming strong partnerships with organizations like LIMRA, ACLI, and IRI has allowed for greater influence in policy, education, and consumer protection efforts. Brian highlights that these alliances not only enhance NAIFA's impact but also ensure that agents, advisors, and carriers are aligned in advancing the profession.

In this episode of Advisor Today, Chris Gandy and John D. Richardson sit down with Brian Steiner, Executive Director of Life Happens, to discuss how building industry relationships fuels advocacy in financial services. They explore NAIFA's collaborations with leading associations, the evolving role of advisors in a changing marketplace, and how Life Happens continues to educate and inspire through storytelling.

John D. Richardson is a Financial Planner at Capital Planning Group, where he specializes in retirement planning, investment advice, and risk management for clients seeking to align their financial decisions with their values. As a recognized leader in the financial services industry, John has served as president of both NAIFA-Nashville and NAIFA-Tennessee, received the NAIFA Young Advisors Team Leader of the Year award, and was named a NAIFA Presidential Citation recipient, in addition to being elected NAIFA National Trustee for 2025-2026. Beyond his professional achievements, John is active in politics, serving as State Executive Committeeman for Senate District 21 in Tennessee and as a delegate to the Republican National Convention.

Leadership takes many forms — from commanding figures who lead through authority to quiet mentors who inspire from behind the scenes. But what truly defines a great leader? Is it influence, humility, or the ability to elevate others beyond themselves?

According to John D. Richardson, a purpose-driven leader and advocate for servant leadership, true leadership begins with service. He believes leadership is not about titles or control but about empowering others to succeed and replacing oneself by developing the next generation. He highlights that the most effective leaders balance strength with empathy, guiding teams through challenge and growth while fostering trust and collaboration. When leaders embrace service over ego, they create a culture that not only performs but transforms.

In this episode of Advisor Today, Chris Gandy sits down with John D. Richardson, Financial Planner at Capital Planning Group, to discuss how servant leadership shapes lasting impact. They explore how to build transformative cultures, develop future leaders through followership, and navigate different leadership styles with integrity. John also shares insights on creating alignment through values and vision.