CBS Spotlight

In this Part 2 episode of CBS Spotlight, Kim Luthy, Partner and Director of Wealth Planning at Synthesis Wealth, shares her perspective on growth, resilience, and intentional living. She discusses viewing life in “seasons,” using transitions as opportunities to reflect and realign priorities. Kim reflects on her time as a single mother, emphasizing how firm boundaries allowed her to stay focused a...

In this episode of CBS Spotlight, the conversation features Kim Luthy, Partner and Director of Wealth Planning at Synthesis Wealth, who shares her remarkable personal and professional journey. Kim reflects on her 38‑year career in the financial industry and how life’s challenges—from stepping into a caregiver role at a young age to advocating fiercely for her children during serious health crises—...

Part 2 of our conversation with Liz Hand goes even deeper. Liz expands on how values‑based planning shapes better outcomes for clients, especially women navigating retirement transitions. She shares practical insights on creating space for meaningful conversations, balancing growth with sustainability, and leading with empathy in an industry that often prioritizes numbers over people. It’s an hone...

In this episode of CBS Spotlight, features Liz Hand from Pleasant Wealth. Liz shares her journey as a second‑generation financial advisor and how she’s helped reshape her family’s practice into a more intentional, human‑centered firm. The conversation dives into the intersection of money and mindset, serving women approaching and entering retirement, and building an advisory practice rooted in pur...

In this episode, we feature James Wong, founder of The Founder's Chair. With over two decades in financial services, James brings deep experience in insurance, technology distribution, startups, and M&A. He shares his personal journey and the philosophy behind The Founder’s Chair, focused on helping founders lead with clarity and connecting funders with meaningful growth opportunities.

In this episode of CBS Spotlight, features Rick & Jake Eskin from Dye & Eskin, highlight unique corporate life insurance solutions that do not require medical exams. The discussion focuses on how advisors can leverage these guaranteed issue life products to provide substantial benefits to corporate clients, streamline the insurance process, and expand their business with minimal effort

In Part 2 of our conversation with John Swystun, CEO of Auxesys, Inc., we dive deeper into the strategies that help financial advisors stand out in a crowded market. John shares actionable insights on leveraging authentic storytelling, digital ecosystems, and creative branding to foster trust and long-term client relationships. We also explore how technology and compliance intersect in marketing—a...

In this episode of CBS Spotlight, John Swystun shares his unconventional career path from producing snowboard videos to becoming the CEO of Auxesys, Inc., a digital marketing firm specializing in wealth management. He discusses the importance of storytelling, systems thinking, and creativity in marketing, particularly for financial advisors. The conversation highlights how these elements can creat...

In this episode, Eric Alvarado and Ted Hikes discuss the high net worth foreign national market with Fabian Gonzalez from Symetra. They cover the attractiveness of US life insurance, market opportunities, and the unique challenges faced by foreign nationals in obtaining life insurance. Gonzalez highlights the importance of partnerships, establishing connections in the US, and working with a knowle...

This episode highlights Christopher Street Financial, founded in 1981 by Robert Casaletto to serve the unique financial planning needs of the LGBTQ+ community.  What began as a bold stand for inclusion has grown into a firm known for empathy, trust, and authentic relationships. Over 40 years later, they remain committed to financial planning that truly understands and supports their clients.  Tune...

We sat down with Shane Keith of KDI Wealth to explore how their firm is doing more than just managing money — they’re building a true community. From Valentine’s Day dinners to wellness events, and even international and domestic trips, KDI is finding innovative ways to bring clients together and deepen relationships. It’s a refreshing take on wealth management: creating experiences that connect p...

In this episode of CBS Spotlight, Jen Fox, Vice President of Federal and Political Affairs at Finseca, discusses the importance of financial security professionals, the role of life insurance, advocacy efforts, and the challenges facing the financial services industry. She emphasizes the need for better education and accessibility to financial planning, particularly for young adults graduating hig...

In this episode of CBS Spotlight, Hector Martinez from John Hancock discusses the transformative impact of generative AI in the insurance industry and elaborates on John Hancock's unique approach to behavioral insurance through the Vitality program. He highlights how this program encourages clients to engage in healthier lifestyles while also providing life-saving medical technology and empha...

In this episode of CBS Spotlight, hosts Eric Alvarado and Ted Hikes interview Hector Martinez, the Head of Insurance at John Hancock. Hector discusses his extensive career in the insurance industry, sharing insights about his journey from early career to leading roles at various organizations. The conversation delves into the importance of consistency in sales, the role of technology in the insura...

In this episode of CBS Spotlight, hosts Eric Alvarado and Ted Hikes discuss the importance of engaging women in the financial industry with Jeanie Underwood from Global Atlantic. They explore strategies that can help financial professionals better connect with female clients, emphasizing that women will control a significant portion of wealth in the coming years. Underwood shares insights on why t...

In the latest CBS Spotlight episode, retirement expert and economist Tom Hegna shares his insights on achieving a financially secure retirement. With over 30 years of experience, Tom emphasizes the importance of guaranteed lifetime income and offers strategies to ensure financial stability throughout retirement. His engaging presentation simplifies complex financial concepts, making them accessibl...

In this episode of CBS Spotlight, co-hosts Eric Alvarado and Ted Hikes interview Kara Murphy, Chief Investment Officer of Kestra. Kara shares her unconventional journey into finance and reflects on her experiences, which ultimately shaped her investment philosophy. Emphasizing the importance of making an impact beyond just financial gains, she discusses her roles and responsibilities at Kestra and...

In this episode, Matt Regan from Wealthcare Capital Management discusses the importance of goals-based financial planning and the evolution of the financial advising industry. He highlights the shift towards holistic wealth management, the value of empathy in client relationships, and the support Wealthcare provides to independent advisors. Regan also shares insights on industry trends and the sig...

In this episode of CBS Spotlight, hosts Eric Alvarado and Ted Hikes speak with Aaron Anderson, president of FIT Asset Management, about the integration of insurance and investment strategies in wealth management. They explore Aaron's journey into the finance industry, the philosophy behind FIT, the importance of effective communication and listening to clients, and the firm's impressive...

In this episode of CBS Spotlight, we sit down with David Reynolds, a leading expert and partner at Spearhead, to delve into the world of Private Placement Variable Universal Life (PPVUL) insurance. David shares his insights on when PPVUL can serve as a planning tool for high-net-worth individuals. We discuss the mechanics of PPVUL, its potential benefits, and when it’s an appropriate fit. If you&a...

In this episode of CBS Spotlight, we’re joined by Andrea Caruso, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of MIB Group, to explore how MIB is shaping the future of the insurance industry. Andrea shares her insights on leveraging data and analytics to drive innovation, improve risk assessment, and streamline underwriting processes. With her extensive expertise, Andrea sheds light on how MI...

Petersen International Underwriters’ Derrick Pfau shares expert insights into the world of excess disability insurance and specialty coverage. Learn how these innovative products address gaps left by traditional insurance, offering critical protection for high-income earners and unique professions. Perfect for advisors seeking to enhance their offerings and clients looking to safeguard their finan...

We’re thrilled to have had Jason Gordo, Co-Founder of Modern Wealth Management (MWM), join our latest CBS Spotlight podcast episode! Jason shared insights from his impressive career leading up to building MWM. We delved into MWM’s unique approach to financial planning, how they build a winning culture, the critical role of risk management, and how insurance enhances client strategies. Don’t miss t...

CBS Spotlight talks with Karen Reifel, Senior Wealth Advisor, and named “Advisor of the Year” at Beacon Pointe over the insight of creating, implementing, and running a successful career in the financial services industry. You do not want to miss Karen Reifel’s insight, all of this and more on the next CBS Spotlight.

Join Michael Kohrmann and Eric Alvarado for the latest episode of CBS Spotlight as they welcome Matt Gibson, Head of Behavioral Insurance Activation at John Hancock. Matt joins our team for a discussion on new screening techniques and wearable health devices that are transforming financial planning and insurance. He touches on expert strategies for effectively discussing health and insurance with...