The Human Side of Scaling Great Advisory Firms

Episode 152: In this special compilation episode, Kyle Van Pelt and Jessica Perez revisit four conversations centered on one of the biggest challenges facing advisory firms today: scaling while maintaining exceptional client service. Anne McPhail shares why intentional leadership and culture create lasting organizations. Michael Vedders explains how thoughtful planning and advisor development lead to stronger firms. Tim Gavin explores the operational mindset required to build sustainable growth. And Sarah Simmer reveals how world-class client experience can be delivered consistently, even as firms expand. Together, these conversations highlight that sustainable growth isn’t driven by technology alone—it’s built on people, process, and purpose.

In this episode:

(00:00) – Intro

(00:51) – Anne McPhail on building a culture that scales with the firm

(04:33) – Michael Vedders on developing advisors for long-term growth

(07:22) – Tim Gavin on creating operational excellence that supports scale

(10:34) – Sarah Simmer on delivering white-glove client experiences at scale

Links

Anne McPhail on LinkedIn

Novare Capital Management

Michael Vedders on LinkedIn

NorthRock Partners