Monthly Archives: August 2025

Episode 287 – Advice at Scale: Smart Tech Meets Human Insight with Anuj Gupta and Blake Wood



In this episode, we catch up with Anuj Gupta, Head of Sales Engineering, and Blake Wood, Head of Platform Strategy at Envestnet. They walk us through how Envestnet is helping advisors scale personalization and drive efficiency across their practices. From AI-powered insights and tax-aware investment tools to client review automation and UMA flexibility, Blake and Anuj highlight the innovations that are making it easier for advisors to deliver high-touch service—at scale.

They also dive into the operational realities of adopting new tech, the importance of integration and flexibility, and how Envestnet is balancing innovation with a strong compliance-first foundation. With demand for alternatives growing and advisor expectations evolving, the platform continues to expand its capabilities while staying focused on what really matters: creating more time for advisors to have deeper, more meaningful conversations with the clients they serve.

Resources: Envestnet

Disclosures:

The information, analysis, and opinions expressed herein are for general information only. Nothing contained herein is intended to constitute legal, tax, securities, or investment advice, nor an opinion regarding the appropriateness of any investment, nor a solicitation of any type. Investing carries certain risks and there is no assurance that investing in accordance with the portfolios or strategies mentioned will provide positive performance over any period of time. Past performance is not indicative of future results.  

Potential transactions identified by Envestnet’s AI tools including but not limited to Insights Engine are based on concentrated positions, concentrated asset classes, and/or high cash allocations but do not include a fee analysis or other factors that should be taken into account when considering brokerage versus advisory accounts.  Potential transactions identified by these tools are for informational purposes only and are not to be construed as an instruction to take any specific action. Envestnet, Inc. and its subsidiaries and affiliates are not responsible for any decisions or recommendations you may provide to your clients.

Alternative Investments may have complex terms and features that are not easily understood and are not suitable for all investors. You should conduct your own due diligence to ensure you understand the features of the product before investing. Envestnet and its affiliates do not provide research or product oversight on alternative investments. As with all investments, there is no assurance that alternative investment strategies will achieve their objectives or protect against losses.


Episode 286 – Shaping What’s Next: Legacy, Leadership, and Next-Gen Talent with Tim Burklow



We catch up with Tim Burklow, Managing Director and Wealth Advisor at Mainstay Wealth Management within Steward Partners. Tim shares his journey from being inspired by his father’s advisor to building a successful career in financial services, including over three decades with a single firm. He explains what ultimately led him to make the leap to Steward Partners and the importance of preparing for succession with intentionality. While the transition was initially daunting, he describes the move as energizing—for both himself and his team—and credits Steward’s resources and support for helping them hit the ground running.

Tim reflects on how the shift has reinvigorated his passion for the work, especially in mentoring the next generation of advisors. He highlights Steward’s robust wealth management platform, customized investment models, and collaborative culture as game changers for client service and team development. With a renewed focus on leadership, legacy, and empowering his team, Tim sees this next chapter as his most meaningful yet—one defined by impact, growth, and passing the torch with purpose.

Resources: Steward Partners


Episode 285 – Automation, Efficiency, and the Future of Custody with Thomas Moore



Thomas Moore, Head of Betterment Advisor Solutions, shares how Betterment is reimagining custody and advisor technology to help modern RIAs scale efficiently. Drawing on his background at legacy institutions, Moore explains how Betterment’s all-in-one, tech-forward platform integrates portfolio management, billing, and reporting—eliminating inefficiencies and streamlining advisor workflows. Innovations like fully digital onboarding, solo 401(k)s, and lending solutions reflect the firm’s close feedback loop with advisors and commitment to continuous improvement.

He also explores the evolving custodial landscape and the growing demand for solutions that meet the expectations of millennial investors. By white-labeling tools, automating client communications, and supporting advisor branding, Betterment helps firms deepen relationships while maintaining scalability. Looking ahead, Moore sees opportunity in blending high-touch service with smart automation to drive the next wave of advisor growth.

Resources: Betterment.com/Advisors