Category Archives: Industry Innovators

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


Episode 254 – Unlocking CLO Opportunities with Fran Rodilosso and Bill Sokol



Today, Doug is joined by VanEck’s Fran Rodilosso, Head of Fixed Income ETF Portfolio Management, and Bill Sokol,  Director of Product Management, to break down the opportunities in Collateralized Loan Obligations (CLOs) and why they’re gaining traction with investors. They explain how CLOs offer higher yields, low default rates, and floating-rate protection against interest rate volatility, making them a compelling addition to fixed income portfolios.

They also dive into CLO structures, key risks, and why active management is essential for optimizing returns. Learn how VanEck’s CLO ETFs, CLOI and CLOB, provide access to this growing asset class while managing risk. Tune in for expert insights on how advisors can integrate CLOs into diversified portfolios.

Resources: VanEck


Episode 253 – Maximize Charitable Giving: Unlocking the Power of Donor Advised Funds with Courtney Tsai



In this episode, Doug is joined by Courtney Tsai, Senior Manager of Charitable Strategies Group at DAFgiving360TM. They delve into the benefits of donor-advised funds (DAFs) and how DAFgiving360 simplifies and enhances charitable giving.

Courtney explains the structure and tax advantages of DAFs, the importance of donating non-cash assets like private business interests and real estate, and how DAFgiving360 supports advisors and donors through complex giving strategies. Courtney highlights that non-cash asset donations can offer substantial tax benefits, and emphasizes the need for professional guidance in these transactions.

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.

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

DAFgiving360TM does not provide legal or tax advice. Please consult a qualified legal or tax advisor where such advice is necessary or appropriate.

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.

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.

©2025 Donor Advised Charitable Giving, Inc. All rights reserved. (0325-U11V)


Episode 252 – Navigating Market Volatility: Market Insights and Portfolio Strategies with Jeff Weniger



Jeff Weniger is the Head of Equity Strategy at WisdomTree. WisdomTree works to create a better way to invest, offering a leading product range that offers access to an unparalleled selection of unique and smart exposures.

Today, Doug and Jeff discuss how WisdomTree’s investment strategies can help investors navigate market volatility in 2025. He highlights the firm’s two key funds—WisdomTree U.S. Value Fund (WTV) and WisdomTree U.S. Quality Growth Fund (QGRW)—and explains how combining value and growth strategies can create a well-diversified, risk-balanced portfolio.

Resources: WisdomTree

Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the Fund before investing. For a prospectus or, if available, the summary prospectus containing this and other important information about the fund, call 866.909.9473 or visit WisdomTree.com/investments. Read the prospectus or, if available, the summary prospectus carefully before investing.

You cannot invest directly in an index.

For definition of terms used in this discussion, please see the WisdomTree Glossary.

There are risks involved with investing, including the possible loss of principal.

WTV Risk Information: Funds focusing their investments on certain sectors increase their vulnerability to any single economic or regulatory development.  This may result in greater share price volatility.  While the Fund is actively managed, the Fund’s investment process is expected to be heavily dependent on quantitative models and the models may not perform as intended.  Please read the Fund’s prospectus for specific details regarding the Fund’s risk profile.

QGRW Risk Information: Growth stocks, as a group, may be out of favor with the market and underperform value stocks or the overall equity market. Growth stocks are generally more sensitive to market movements than other types of stocks. The Fund is non-diversified, as a result, changes in the market value of a single security could cause greater fluctuations in the value of Fund shares than would occur in a diversified fund. The Fund invests in the securities included in, or representative of, its Index regardless of their investment merit. The Fund does not attempt to outperform its Index or take defensive positions in declining markets and the Index may not perform as intended. Please read the Fund’s prospectus for specific details regarding the Fund’s risk profile.

To learn more about WTV & QGRW’s performance, holding, and other details, please visit WTV Fund page or QGRW Fund page.

WisdomTree Funds are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC, in the U.S