Nurturing Success

Host: John Thompson Guest: Todd Ballenger In this insightful episode of Nurturing Success, John welcomes his long-time friend and mentor, Todd Ballinger, for a wide-ranging conversation. Todd shares his unique professional journey from realtor and insurance agent to founding one of the largest independent mortgage brokers in North Carolina (later Mortgage.com). The core of the discussion centers o...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Linda Clayton In this episode of Nurturing Success, John chats with financial advisor Linda Clayton about her unique journey into finance and her client-centric planning philosophy. Linda, who transitioned from the airline industry after 9/11, shares how teaching financial planning to a diverse group of MBA students informs her practice. She emphasizes the importance of...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Gary Pattengale In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson sits down with Gary Pattengale to discuss the evolving role of the financial advisor. Gary shares his transition from public accounting to personal wealth management, explaining how his CPA background provides a unique "tax-first" lens for his clients. From navigating 2026 tax law changes to the psycholo...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Madison Gilmartin In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson welcomes Madison Gilmartin of Goosehead Insurance to discuss the evolving landscape of home and auto insurance, particularly in California. Madison shares her journey from high-pressure medical device sales to building a thriving family-run insurance agency. They unpack the challenges of entering the m...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Lauren Rockett In this episode of Nurturing Success, host John Thompson speaks with Lauren Rockett, a dynamic real estate professional and mortgage strategist with over two decades of hands-on experience. Lauren shares her journey from flipping homes as a single mom to becoming a sought-after coach for real estate agents and financial educators. They discuss how real est...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Chris Mastro In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson talks with Chris Mastro, CFP® of Impact Fiduciary, about building a purpose-driven financial planning practice rooted in sustainability, intentionality, and efficiency. Chris shares his nontraditional path into financial planning, how the 2008 financial crisis ignited his passion for empowering others throu...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Lisa Rehburg In this eye-opening episode, John Thompson sits down with Lisa Rehburg to explore the often-overlooked opportunity of life settlements — turning unwanted or unaffordable life insurance policies into a powerful financial planning tool. Lisa brings over three decades of insurance industry experience, sharing how life settlements can offer clients much-needed l...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Suzanne Patrick Lawrence In this episode of Nurturing Success, host John Thompson welcomes Suzanne Patrick Lawrence, a seasoned business strategist and CEO of Advisor Business Solutions. Suzanne shares her multi-decade journey working with independent financial advisors, helping them grow through more innovative marketing, succession planning, and intentional leadership....

Host: John Thompson Guest: Sheree Tromblee In this episode of Nurturing Success, host John Thompson sits down with Sheree Tromblee, a passionate and experienced insurance advisor at Weaver & Associates. Sheree brings clarity, urgency, and compassion to the world of property and casualty insurance—helping clients and financial professionals understand how risk protection is foundational to any...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Trevor Hammond In this insightful episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson welcomes Trevor Hammond, a veteran mortgage professional and regional leader with a passion for financial education. With over two decades in the industry, Trevor has shifted his focus from originating loans to empowering mortgage professionals to think more strategically and collaboratively—pa...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Val Miller In this special episode of Nurturing Success, host John Thompson chats with Val Miller, a rising talent in the mortgage and financial advice space. With a background in marketing and a bold leap into full-time production, Val represents a new generation of professionals redefining what it means to be a Mortgage Advisor. She shares her career evolution, the val...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Emily Vincent In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson sits down with Emily Vincent, CEO of a fast-growing third-party administration (TPA) firm and second-generation business leader. Emily shares how she successfully took over her family’s business, built a strong team, and grew it through education-based marketing and deep collaboration with financial profes...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Chris Johnson In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson speaks with longtime estate planning and probate attorney Chris Johnson about the practical realities of planning, family dynamics, and why so many people still avoid creating an estate plan. Chris shares insights from decades in practice, including how working with his wife has shaped his business, why mo...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Bill Gross In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson sits down with Bill Gross, a high-performing real estate professional and probate expert who also hosts several podcasts. Bill shares his unique perspective on real estate as a critical part of a three-sided balance sheet for building wealth. With a passion for empowering professionals and consumers alike, Bi...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Tyrrell Nunez In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson sits down with Tyrrell Nunez, a seasoned family law attorney and advocate for collaborative divorce planning. Tyrrell shares her unique journey from music and minor league sports to practicing family law, and how her background influences the thoughtful, client-focused approach she brings to her work. They...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Alex Leu Episode Summary: In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson speaks with Alex Leu, the founder of LA Wealth Advisors. Alex shares his journey from working at large firms like Morgan Stanley and Charles Schwab to launching his own independent financial advisory firm. He discusses his client-centered approach, the importance of comprehensive financial plan...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Jeremy Baker Episode Summary: In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson speaks with Jeremy Baker of Arroyo Financial. With over 22 years in the insurance and financial services industry, Jeremy shares his journey, the challenges of the industry, and the strategies that have led to his long-term success. They discuss the importance of consistency, diversificatio...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Tori Sierra, CFP® Episode Summary: In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson speaks with Tori Sierra, a Certified Financial Planner® specializing in empowering female entrepreneurs of color. Tori shares her journey into financial planning, how she identified and honed her niche, and the importance of intentionality in both business and personal finance. They di...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Alex Sierra, CFP® Episode Summary: In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson speaks with Alex Sierra, a Certified Financial Planner specializing in building generational wealth for educators, public employees, and nonprofits. Alex shares his journey into financial planning, how he developed his niche, and the importance of planning over investing in today’s mar...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Linda Polwrek, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP®, MBA Episode Summary: In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson sits down with Linda Polwrek, a seasoned financial planner with multiple designations, including CFP®, CDFA®, and RICP®. Linda shares her journey into financial planning, how she built a successful practice while empowering women, and the importance of tax planning...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Colin Mackenzie, CFP®, Financial Advisor at Cetera In this episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson interviews Colin Mackenzie, a seasoned financial advisor and leader at Cetera. They discuss Colin’s journey from the military to the world of financial services, the importance of mentorship, the power of compounding, and how to thrive as a financial advisor. Colin also...

Host: John Thompson Guest: Vanessa Burnett, CFP® CEO of Bridge Advisory In the inaugural episode of Nurturing Success, John Thompson sits down with Vanessa Burnett, the CEO and a Certified Financial Planner at Bridge Advisory. They discuss Vanessa’s journey into financial planning, her approach to leadership and team building, and the growth strategies at Bridge Advisory. The conversation also tou...