NAIFA's Advisor Today Podcast Series

Grace Staten is a seasoned marketing executive with over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry. She has led comprehensive initiatives in branding, digital strategy, public relations, and advisor development, significantly enhancing organizational growth and visibility. Grace holds a MBA in finance from San Jose State University, FSCP designation, and multiple FINRA licenses. A passionate advocate for women in fi...

Juli McNeely, CFP, CLU, LUTCF, is a seasoned financial services professional with over 25 years of experience. Through her consulting work and speaking engagements, she continues to empower financial professionals to define success on their own terms and excel in their careers. In 2014, Juli made history as the first female president of NAIFA. She is also the accomplished author of No Necktie Needed: A Woman’s Guide to Success in F...

David Wood is a seasoned financial services professional with nearly four decades of industry experience. He began his career in 1986, navigating early challenges like the 1987 market crash, which shaped his resilient approach to financial advising. Together with his firm, David has been empowering independent financial advisors through strategic support, innovative growth solutions, and client-centric strategies. Beyond his profes...

Bobby Johnson is an experienced general agent and sales and distribution executive in the financial services industry. He leads life insurance distribution strategies, focusing on expanding agent partnerships and enhancing customer experiences. Bobby's commitment to collaboration and innovation is evident in his active involvement in initiatives that benefit both agents and clients alike.

Joel Tabin is a Chartered Life Underwriter,...

Leah Walters is a state relations expert who leads legislative and regulatory advocacy efforts across all levels of state government. With over two decades of experience in state insurance advocacy, she has been instrumental in shaping policies that support the life insurance industry's mission to provide financial security to American families. Leah has a background in accounting and law. Her extensive experience in state advocacy...

Lindsey Lewis is a Chartered Financial Consultant and a Certified Financial Planner who champions the advancement of women in the financial industry through research, education, and advocacy. She leads various initiatives, encompassing podcasts, social media, and events fostering community and professional growth for women advisors. Recognized for her contributions, Lindsey has been honored with accolades, including InvestmentNews’...

Erica McQuade is a government relations expert specializing in federal lobbying and advocacy. With a strong background in political advocacy, she actively engages in legislative initiatives that impact the financial services industry. Erica is a featured speaker at events like the NAIFA Women’s Financial Security Fly-In, where she empowers women financial professionals to advocate for their clients and communities. Her dedication t...

Bianca Alonso Weiss is the State Government Relations Director at NAIFA, overseeing advocacy efforts across all 50 state chapters. She specializes in bill tracking, analysis, and legislative outreach, ensuring that NAIFA members remain informed and engaged in shaping financial policies. Bianca also represents NAIFA at the National Council of Insurance Legislators, facilitating connections between lawmakers and industry experts to d...

Stacy Norton is a seasoned financial advisor specializing in retirement planning, insurance solutions, and wealth protection. With over 17 years of experience in the industry, she has built a strong reputation for helping clients navigate complex financial decisions with a personal, hands-on approach. Stacy is deeply involved in NAIFA, serving as North Dakota’s state president and advocating for industry advancements and legislativ...

For over 30 years, Diane Boyle has been the Senior Vice President of Government Relations for NAIFA. Diane advocates for state, interstate, and federal laws that benefit the good of the people. She graduated from Louisiana State University with a degree in political science and government. 

In this episode…

In a world where political dynamics constantly shift, how do financial advisors navigate the complexities of new poli...

Doug Massey has 40 years of experience in the financial industry, specializing in retirement planning and life insurance. A dedicated NAIFA member since 1987, he has served as president of his local association and NAIFA Texas. Doug actively participated in the IFAPAC committee and recently played a crucial role in NAIFA's stand against the Department of Labor's fiduciary rule proposal. As NAIFA's President-Elect for 2025, he is co...

Adam Solano is a seasoned financial advisor with 32 years of industry experience. A member of NAIFA, he has served in numerous roles in NAIFA — including serving as President of NAIFA Chicago and Illinois — and is a recognized leader and mentor within the financial services community. Adam previously ran for public office, imparting a richer understanding of client advocacy on Capitol Hill, and has taken on the responsibilities of ...

John D. Richardson is a financial planner who has been providing sound financial advice to his clients since 2005. His primary focus is to help people align their financial decisions with their values and truths to live enriching lives. As a Retirement Income Certified Professional and a Life and Annuities Certified Professional, John advises clients on retirement planning, investment planning, and risk management. He serves as a N...

Ryan Pinney is an insurance and financial services professional known for his innovative approach to leveraging technology to enhance client experiences. A past National Trustee and a respected figure in the industry, he is renowned for his contributions to tech integration within financial services and his dedication to serving his clients and the larger community. Ryan has a distinguished background in military service, complemen...

Dr. John Migliaccio is a financial services expert, recognized speaker, author, and thought leader on demographic trends and their impact on financial advising. He is a seasoned expert in financial gerontology, focusing on the interplay between aging and financial planning. Through his long-standing career, Dr. Migliaccio has contributed extensively to the field, from academic research to practical applications in financial service...

John Davidson is a seasoned professional in the financial services industry, having served in various roles throughout his 44-year career. He was honored with NAIFA's Terry Headley Lifetime Defender Award in 2023, recognizing his significant contributions to the industry. A US Army veteran and former president of the NAIFA, John is also known for his dedication to mentoring the next generation of financial advisors in NAIFA's Futur...

Joshua Herrington-Vickers is a dedicated financial services professional and US Air Force veteran. With a career rooted in service and a personal mission of bridging financial planning across borders, he embodies the core values of integrity, service before self, and excellence. Passionate about community and industry involvement, Joshua is also actively engaged with NAIFA, working to promote membership and collaboration among fina...

Cheryl Canzanella is the incoming president of NAIFA-Florida, boasting over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry. She holds several designations, including CLU, ChSNC, LUTCF, and CAP. With a background that spans annuities, brokerage, and a recent pivot to the mortgage sector, Cheryl brings a wealth of knowledge and a diverse perspective to her leadership role. She is passionate about leveraging financial tools...

Peter Wood is an accomplished financial advisor and active member of NAIFA with over a decade of experience in the industry. Starting as a multi-line captive agent, he now co-owns a multi-state firm that spans over 12 states and runs a mastermind coaching program for insurance agents. Apart from insurance, Peter coaches competitive bands and drumlines, matching his passion for mentorship in music with his professional endeavors. As...