Wealth, Meaning and the Future of Advice with Dr. Brian Portnoy

Building wealth is one thing. Defining what wealth means is another. In this episode, Cary Sinnett sits down with Dr. Brian Portnoy, one of the world’s leading experts on the psychology of money, to explore why the future of financial advice isn’t just about technical expertise — it’s about emotional intelligence, perspective, and purpose.

Brian unpacks his powerful concept of “funded contentment” — the idea that true wealth is the ability to live a meaningful life, not just grow a bigger balance sheet. He shares practical ways advisors can help clients escape the hedonic treadmill, have deeper conversations about what matters, and reframe financial planning around purpose before numbers.

They also dive into how AI and technological disruption are reshaping the advisor’s role, pushing EQ skills like empathy, self-awareness, and connection to the forefront of practice. As the financial landscape evolves, the ability to understand and guide clients as humans, not just portfolios, is becoming a defining skill.

Key Topics Covered

• The difference between being rich and being truly wealthy
• How to help clients define their future selves and avoid future regrets
• Why financial conversations should start with meaning, not money
• The advisor’s evolving role from mechanic to guide
• Why EQ is becoming an essential advantage in the age of AI

AICPA Resources:

PFP Podcast: How emotions affect financial decisions

PFP Learning: Emotional Intelligence

PFP Learning: MBAexpress: Emotional Intelligence

PFP Podcast: Turning Panic into Trust with Dr. Lurtz