How Behavioral Data Creates Better Client Relationships with Julie Littlechild

Episode 155: This week, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Julie Littlechild, Founder and CEO at Absolute Engagement. Julie is a recognized leader in client engagement, investor behavior, and referral growth. Through years of advisor and investor research, she has helped firms better understand the emotional drivers behind client decisions and build stronger, more personalized advisory relationships.

Kyle and Julie explore why understanding how clients feel is just as important as understanding their financial goals. Julie explains how behavioral data—especially around confidence and concerns—helps advisors uncover more meaningful conversations, personalize communication, and strengthen trust over time. They also discuss why client experience is becoming a key competitive advantage, how AI should enhance rather than replace human connection, and practical ways firms of every size can create experiences that resonate with both today's clients and the next generation.

In this episode:

(00:00) - Intro

(01:33) - Julie's money moment

(04:52) - Understanding the confidence and concern indices

(04:52) - Understanding the confidence and concern indices

(06:52) - Using behavioral data to personalize the client experience

(10:00) - Why CRM integrations make behavioral data more actionable

(14:35) - The growing role of client experience leadership

(17:04) - Why efficiency alone isn't a competitive advantage

(19:18) - Practical ways smaller firms can elevate the client experience