FPA Arizona News

Technology and Client Relationships

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 21:32:13 GMT

The advancement of technology within a financial advisor’s practice has accelerated dramatically over the past several years. Tasks that once took hours or days can now be completed in minutes. Robust financial plans can be adjusted in seconds, and alternative scenarios can be illustrated in real time. With this rapid evolution, advisors face an important question: how do you identify and implement the right tools for your specific practice?

Client expectations continue to rise. According to a 2023 study by eMoney, 22% of clients reported dissatisfaction with their advisor because what was presented to them was too complex. With an everexpanding suite of tools available, advisors can become “wide-eyed,” attempting to showcase everything at once. But complexity often leads to confusion. Advisors should focus on simplifying the complex — delivering clear solutions and meaningful results while keeping the financial plan at the center of the relationship.

Research supports this shift toward clarity and trust. A 2022 study from The American College of Financial Services found that education and trustworthiness were the most valued advisor attributes. Additionally, 52.5% of respondents sought help achieving their financial goals, while 47.5% were looking for investmentrelated guidance. The takeaway is clear: clients are not just seeking information, they are seeking understanding, direction, and confidence.

The Kitces FinTech Map outlines hundreds of tools available to advisors today. Since its initial release in 2018, the ecosystem has expanded exponentially. Financial planning, investment management, tax analysis, estate planning, operations, and meeting documentation tools continue to evolve, with new providers entering the space regularly. Selecting the right technology stack is essential not simply for efficiency, but for enhancing clarity, strengthening trust, and delivering advice in a way clients can understand and implement.

How do you make work, work?

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 20:47:11 GMT

It's 3 a.m., and your one-month-old daughter is crying. You’re bouncing her in the closet, trying not to wake your spouse and your one-and-a-half-year-old. Tomorrow, you have three client reviews and a meeting with a prospective client. You’re exhausted. Your spouse is exhausted. When does it get easier?

Raising a family is a beautiful journey, though it sometimes feels never-ending. You watch your kids grow, your perspective changes, and your relationships evolve. The days can feel long, but the years fly by. A quote from Modern Family really resonates with this feeling. Jay reflects:

"You know, the thing about babies. You fall in love with a baby, with the cutest little fat folds, and then, bam, they're gone. But it's okay, because in its place is this toddler with the greatest laugh on Earth. And then one day, the toddler's gone, and in its place, a little kid that asks the most interesting questions you've ever heard. And this keeps going on like that, but you never get the chance to miss any of them, because there's always a new kid to take the place of the old. Until they grow up. And then...in a moment, all those kids you fell in love with walk out the door at the same time."

So, how do you juggle it all? Honestly, I’m figuring it out myself. But here are a few tips that have helped me along the way. I’ll keep it to three, but trust me, the list of insights grows as fast as our kids do.

1. Set Clear Work-Life Boundaries

Family is priceless, and you only get one. Set clear “work hours” and “family time,” and stick to them. Use your calendar to help you stay on track, and let your clients know your boundaries. Most clients understand; they’ve been there or are in a similar place. Kids get sick, games get rescheduled, and plans change. Work will still be there when you get back.

2. Communicate Openly—Both at Work and Home

Your clients trust you, and they often appreciate knowing more about you. Share glimpses of your life—talk about your family, activities you enjoy, and ask about theirs too. Strong relationships are built on shared stories and understanding.

FPA Arizona Takes the Lead in Shaping the Future of Financial Planning

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 21:44:43 GMT

FPAAZ Hosts Michael Kitces for High-Impact Industry Dialogue

Arizona continues to distinguish itself as a hub for forward-thinking financial planning, as the Financial Planning Association of Arizona (FPAAZ) recently hosted nationally recognized industry thought leader Michael Kitces for an in-depth discussion on the future of the advisory profession.

The event, co-sponsored by Priority Financial Group and TCI Wealth Advisors, brought together financial advisors from across the state for a candid, solutions-oriented conversation on evolving business models, talent development, and the changing needs of today’s consumers. By hosting one of the most influential voices in financial planning, FPAAZ reinforced Arizona’s growing role as a center for innovation, professional collaboration, and leadership within the industry.

Elevating the Conversation Through Community.

The session opened with an interactive format that allowed attendees to submit and upvote questions in real time, ensuring that the discussion addressed the most pressing concerns facing advisors today. Topics ranged from industry-wide risks and fee pressure to staffing challenges and demographic shifts—issues that directly impact both advisors and the communities they serve.

FPAAZ’s emphasis on engagement and education reflects a broader commitment to strengthening the profession locally. By fostering open dialogue and knowledge-sharing, Arizona advisors are better equipped to deliver high-quality, client-centered advice in an increasingly complex financial landscape.

Drake Quals - Service Appreciation

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 18:20:26 GMT

Drake Quals - Service Appreciation

On behalf of the entire Board of Directors, we extend our deepest gratitude to Drake Qualls as he concludes an extraordinary chapter of leadership with FPA Arizona.

Drake was elected to the Board in 2022 and immediately stepped into the role of Treasurer, setting the tone for what would become four years of dedicated service. From there, he guided the chapter through the full leadership continuum—serving as President-Elect in 2023, President in 2024, and most recently as Chairman in 2025.

It’s one thing to volunteer; it’s another to fully commit. Throughout his tenure, Drake has been a constant source of wisdom for this Board. Even while managing a demanding professional career, he consistently showed up with an honest, direct, and respectful approach that made every meeting more productive and every decision more thoughtful.

We are deeply appreciative of the work Drake has done to ensure FPA Arizona continues to thrive well beyond his term. He was instrumental in welcoming new voices, fostering a strong culture of service, and positioning the chapter’s future in capable hands.

From his early stewardship of our finances to his strategic leadership as President and Chairman, Drake has left a lasting mark on our organization and our community.

Drake, thank you for your leadership, your friendship, and your unwavering commitment to our profession.

Field Guide Published: Jan/Feb News

Melissa Kemp — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 05:05:51 GMT

Spotlight on CFP® Professionals in the Media: An Interview with Bridget Grimes, CFP® of WealthChoice

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 19:13:17 GMT

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Online Reviews for Arizona State-Registered Advisors: Now or 2031?

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:12:41 GMT

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Real FPA Hubble Call Experience

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 17:59:08 GMT

My First FPA Arizona “Hubble”: CFP® Guidance Needed to Protect Against Nightmares like NASCAR Star’s $8.5M Lawsuit Click Here to Read More

FPA Arizona - Annual Meeting Recap

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 19:56:55 GMT

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Call to Action for Financial Literacy Volunteer Teachers

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 22:46:41 GMT

Are you passionate about empowering others and making a difference in our community? Help us equip single moms with essential financial literacy skills through our program at Helping Hands for Single Moms in partnership with MoneyW!se.

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Financial Planners Appreciatively Lend Expertise to Arizona’s Teachers

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 20:27:09 GMT

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FPAAZ Sep 2025 Updates

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 20:40:04 GMT

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Avantis Investors Monthly Field Guide

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 20:53:37 GMT

Avantis Investors' article this month provides an in-depth look back on the news and events of 2025 so far, which has provided a great example of the potential benefits from remaining disciplined through periods of volatility and uncertainty.

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Apply for FPAAZ Board of Directors

Melissa Kemp — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 19:46:50 GMT

Board of Directors Nominations Packet

Opportunities to Complete an Entire College Degree for Under $10,000

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 16:59:53 GMT

Chapter Partner: Templeton Financial Services 2024 - Quarter 4 Newletter

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 20:52:24 GMT

Fri, Jan 31

2024 - Quarter 4

With the transition from the Biden administration to President Trump’s leadership, 2025 has already seen significant economic and geopolitical realignments. The U.S. dollar has gained strength as

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