Category Archives: Advisorpedia

Episode 266 – The Untapped Power of ABS in a Modern Portfolio with Andrew Hsu



Today we talk with Andrew Hsu, founding member and Portfolio Manager at DoubleLine, about their new ETF: DABS, an ETF focused exclusively on asset-backed securities (ABS). Andrew explains why ABS are gaining attention beyond institutional investors, citing their low correlation, strong yields, and resilience. He breaks down what ABS are, how they differ from other fixed income products, and why now is the right time to make them accessible to a broader audience.

Andrew details DoubleLine’s active management strategy for DABS, which targets income and total return through diversified exposure to both consumer and commercial ABS. With a current focus on infrastructure-like assets and high-quality consumer loans, the fund is positioned to navigate a slowing economy while maintaining flexibility. He sees growing interest in ABS from new sectors and investors, and views DABS as a core building block for modern fixed income portfolios.

Resources: DoubleLine


Episode 265 – Why Donor-Advised Funds Belong in Every Advisor’s Toolkit with Julia Reed



Today, Doug talks with Julia Reed, National Director of Charitable Consulting at DAFgiving360TM, about how advisors can strengthen client relationships through philanthropic planning. Julia explains how donor-advised funds (DAFs) offer tax-smart, flexible solutions that align financial strategies with personal values, while helping advisors deepen multi-generational ties and differentiate their practices.

She shares key moments to introduce charitable giving conversations, strategies to maximize the impact of donations, and how DAFs fit into retirement and legacy planning. Julia also highlights resources advisors can use to build confidence around philanthropy and encourages viewing charitable planning as a meaningful, relationship-driven part of wealth management.

If you’d like to learn more about working with DAFgiving360 and the benefits to both you and your clients, review their online resources or request more information.

DAFgiving360™ is the name used for the combined programs and services of Donor Advised Charitable Giving, Inc., an independent nonprofit organization which has entered into service agreements with certain subsidiaries of The Charles Schwab Corporation. DAFgiving360 is a tax-exempt public charity as described in Sections 501(c)(3), 509(a)(1), and 170(b)(1)(A)(vi) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Contributions made to DAFgiving360 are considered an irrevocable gift and are not refundable. Once contributed, DAFgiving360 has exclusive legal control over the contributed assets.

Contributions of certain real estate, private equity, or other illiquid assets may be accepted via a charitable intermediary, with proceeds transferred to a donor-advised fund (DAF) account upon liquidation. Call DAFgiving360 for more information at 800-746-6216.

A donor’s ability to claim itemized deductions is subject to a variety of limitations depending on the donor’s specific tax situation.

DAFgiving360 does not act as trustee or custodian. Donors should consult their legal or tax advisor about their particular circumstances.

DAFgiving360 does not provide legal or tax advice. Please consult a qualified legal or tax advisor where such advice is necessary or appropriate.

©2025 Donor Advised Charitable Giving, Inc. All rights reserved.

TRG (0525-UGTP)


Episode 264 – Balancing Innovation and Human Touch in Wealth Tech with Molly Weiss



On this episode, Doug speaks with Molly Weiss, President of the Wealth Management Platform at Envestnet, about how the firm balances innovation with simplicity across its platform. Molly shares Envestnet’s dual-track approach to development—advancing core systems while rapidly testing new features—and explains how modern APIs help integrate acquisitions without compromising user experience.

She also highlights how AI and automation are enhancing advisor efficiency by surfacing actionable insights, not replacing relationships. With over 19,000 data sources powering its wealth data platform, Envestnet enables more holistic, personalized advice. Molly emphasizes configurability, seamless workflows, and a human-first mindset as essential to meeting the evolving needs of both advisors and clients.

Recorded at Envestnet Elevate 2025

Resources: Envestnet

Disclosures:

The information, analysis, and opinions expressed herein are for general information only. The views expressed herein reflect the judgement of the speakers as of the recording date and are subject to change at any time without notice. Information obtained from third party resources are believed to be reliable but not guaranteed. Nothing contained in this document 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.

There are risks inherent in AI technology and its application in the financial sector, including embedded bias, privacy concerns, outcome opaqueness, performance robustness, unique cyberthreats, and the potential for creating new sources and transmission channels of systemic risks. Trends or potential transactions identified by AI 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.


Episode 262 – The Power of Steady Advice in Unsteady Markets With Dana D’Auria



On today’s episode, Doug talks with Dana D’Auria, Group President and Co-Chief Investment Officer at Envestnet. Dana shares how advisors can support clients through turbulent markets by staying connected, reinforcing long-term discipline, and ensuring portfolios align with risk tolerance. With volatility driven by headlines and sudden policy shifts, she highlights the importance of steady guidance.

Dana also unpacks how new tariffs are raising concerns around both inflation and slowing growth—reviving fears of stagflation. She stresses the role of customized solutions, especially tax-aware strategies, and draws on lessons from 2008 and COVID to show how thoughtful planning can make all the difference. In uncertain times, clear communication and a steady hand remain the advisor’s greatest tools.

Recorded at Envestnet Elevate 2025

Resources: Envestnet

Disclosures:

The information, analysis, and opinions expressed herein are for general information only. The views expressed herein reflect the judgement of the speakers as of the recording date and are subject to change at any time without notice. Information obtained from third party resources are believed to be reliable but not guaranteed. Nothing contained in this document 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.


Episode 261 – Bitcoin’s Evolution: From Risk Asset to Portfolio Tool With Matt Hougan



Today, Doug talks with Matt Hougan, CIO of Bitwise Asset Management, about Bitcoin’s rapid evolution into a more stable, institutionally accepted asset. Matt explains how improved custody, regulation, and ETF access have significantly de-risked Bitcoin over the last five years, making it a viable portfolio enhancer—especially at small allocations of 1–5%.

He outlines the “Three Horsemen” driving Bitcoin demand—ETFs, corporations, and governments—and why their combined influence, against a fixed supply, is reshaping the market. With institutional adoption growing and behavioral risks better managed through advisor guidance, Matt argues that Bitcoin is following a natural path to becoming digital hard money.

Resources: Bitwise Asset Management


Episode 260 – AI, Integration, and Innovation at Envestnet With Chris Todd



On this episode, Doug sits down with Chris Todd, CEO of Envestnet. With over $6.5 trillion in platform assets and 111,000 advisors, Chris discusses how Envestnet balances innovation and stability at scale. He shares how AI is beginning to reshape advisor workflows, enabling deeper client engagement and efficiency, and explains how private equity ownership through Bain Capital is empowering more agile decision-making and strategic investment.

Chris also outlines his vision for tighter integration of Envestnet’s acquired platforms, a more seamless advisor experience, and stronger partnerships across the wealth management ecosystem. He reflects on the legacy of Envestnet’s founders, the culture they built, and his responsibility to lead the firm through its next chapter. With an eye on smart M&A and continued tech-forward solutions, Chris emphasizes a client-first approach as the key to Envestnet’s future.

Recorded at Envestnet Elevate 2025

Resources: Envestnet

Disclosures:

The information, analysis, and opinions expressed herein are for general information only. The views expressed herein reflect the judgement of the speakers as of the recording date and are subject to change at any time without notice. Information obtained from third party resources are believed to be reliable but not guaranteed. Nothing contained in this document 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.


Episode 259 – The Financial Game Plan Every Athlete Needs with Frederick Blue



In today’s episode, Doug speaks with Frederick Blue, Managing Director at Wells Fargo Wealth and Investment Management, about the financial challenges athletes face during and after their careers. With short earning windows and sudden wealth, many athletes struggle without proper planning. Fred emphasizes the importance of budgeting, working with qualified advisors, and using league and institutional resources to build a strong financial foundation early on.

He also unpacks the complexities of taxes, endorsements, and asset protection, especially as NIL deals reshape the financial landscape for college athletes. From managing inconsistent income streams to understanding state tax liabilities and insurance needs, Frederick highlights the critical role of a well-coordinated financial team. His core message: start early, stay disciplined, and protect your wealth—and your brand—for the long haul.

Resources: Wells Fargo


Episode 258 – How Elite Advisors Win Trust in Volatile Markets with Samantha Russell



Today, Doug welcomes back Samantha Russell, Chief Evangelist at FMG, to talk about how advisors can turn market volatility into a marketing strength. Samantha stresses that during uncertain times, silence from advisors breeds anxiety. Instead, consistent, proactive communication builds trust and positions advisors as steady, reliable guides—like a pilot reassuring passengers during turbulence. She shares FMG’s five strategies: regular outreach, dedicated market pages, webinars, social media engagement, and family financial sessions.

Samantha emphasizes using visuals and video to make complex topics digestible and emotionally resonant. She urges advisors to title content using real client questions to boost relevance and attendance. From timely emails to interactive webinars and legacy planning tools, she outlines how FMG helps advisors deepen relationships and expand their reach—especially when clients need guidance the most.

Download FMG’s Exclusive Marketing Toolkit for Navigating Market Uncertainty


Episode 257: The All-in-One Platform Built for Modern Advisors with Michael Scaplen



In this episode, Doug speaks with Michael Scaplen, SVP and Head of Sales and Relationship Management at Axos Clearing. Michael shares how Axos has evolved from its legacy roots into a tech-forward clearing firm, anchored by Axos Complete—a fully integrated ecosystem that unifies banking, investing, and planning. With tools like the Professional Workstation and a real-time client portal, Axos is eliminating operational friction and enhancing the advisor-client experience.

Michael also highlights Axos’ use of AI, biometric logins, and Envestnet integrations to streamline workflows and deliver personalized service. With solutions like tax overlay, private wealth consulting, and Axos Elite Banking, the firm empowers advisors to deepen relationships and grow revenue. It’s a bold vision for the future of clearing—one built on digital-first infrastructure and end-to-end support.

Recorded at Envestnet Elevate 2025

Resources: Axos Clearing


Episode 255 – Diversification in a Jittery Market: Exploring Strategies with Paisley Nardini



In this episode, Doug welcomes Paisley Nardini, a portfolio manager and multi-asset strategist at Simplify. Paisley discusses the significance of diversifying portfolios, especially in times of market volatility and uncertainty, and highlights the innovative solutions Simplify offers, such as liquid alternatives, defined outcome strategies, and the use of derivatives.

Paisley delves into the importance of active management in achieving downside protection and the ongoing shift from a traditional 60/40 portfolio model to a 50-30-20 structure, and offers insights into how Simplify supports advisors through education and unique product offerings.

Resources: Simplify.us