Stratus’ Post

As a true Seattleite, I think I have to make this post. Today marks a bittersweet moment for us Seattle Seahawks fans as we bid farewell to the legendary Pete Carroll. The journey as a fan has been nothing short of incredible, and while we look ahead to a promising future, let's embrace the wisdom imparted by "Papa Pete." Here's what financial advisors can glean from Carroll's tenure as coach of the Seahawks: Embrace the power of self-discovery: As financial advisors, we understand the significance of sticking to a plan to guide our clients toward their financial goals. However, inspired by Pete Carroll's emphasis on self-discovery, let's delve deeper. Are we investing the time to help our clients define their goals? Especially for those entering without a clear vision, guiding them through a thorough discovery process can unveil their true aspirations. Simplicity with excellence: Reflecting on earlier days with the team, Carroll noted, "we weren't complicated, we just did what we did really well." This sentiment can resonate in the world of financial planning and investment management. We, as planners, face the challenge of simplifying the complex for our clients. By focusing on executing simple yet effective strategies, we empower our clients to navigate their financial plans with confidence. Competing to help each other be great: Carroll's philosophy echoes the abundance mindset. There's ample room for all of us in the financial advisory landscape, and lifting each other up fosters a thriving community. By embracing a collaborative spirit, we contribute to an industry culture where success is not a zero-sum game. Always have a five-year plan: This timeless advice is equally applicable in life and finances. Striking a balance between living for today and planning for the future ensures a resilient and sustainable financial journey, spanning not just tomorrow but the many tomorrows that follow. As we celebrate Pete's legacy as our coach, let's integrate these principles into our roles as financial advisors, creating a playbook that champions self-discovery, simplicity, collaboration, and strategic foresight for our client's financial success. #financialplanning #seahawks #seattle

Yesterday, like many people, I intently watched Jason Kelce's retirement announcement, and while I'd always been a big fan of his, I came away even more impressed. While his remarks contained a number of meaningful takeaways, the one that struck me most was the idea that more often than not, the easy way is the wrong way. Doing something well is hard. Making a daily decision to put in the time and effort required to be elite is hard. The longer you do something, and the better you get naturally at that act (selling, activating, being an All-Pro center etc.), the easier it becomes to rest on your laurels and coast. Push yourself to fight the urge to coast. Surround yourself with people who will help you fight the urge to coast. Find people who will hold you accountable to give your best effort every day. Who will make you do it the hard way, because more often than not, that's the right way. #leadership #sales #spo

As we gather around the table and give thanks, I'm reflecting on the journey we've embarked upon together. To all the financial advisors, teams, and professionals I've had the honor of coaching over the years: I'm deeply grateful for your trust, ambition, and the strides we've made together. Thanksgiving is a reminder to appreciate not just the successes, but also the challenges that have shaped our growth. Whether you're celebrating with loved ones or taking a quiet moment for yourself, remember the value you bring to the world, both personally and professionally. I wish each and every one of you a joyful and bountiful Thanksgiving. 🦃❤️ #ThanksgivingEve #Gratitude #FinancialCoachingJourney #GiveThanks #CelebrateGrowth #CEPA #EPI #TeamBuilding #BusinessSuccess #GrowthStrategies #SusanDanzigLLC #FinancialAdvisorSuccess #RefineYourBrand #MarketingTools #ProfessionalNetwork #BusinessGrowth #FinancialAdvisoryServices #FinancialAdvisors #ValueCreation #AdvisoryPractice #SuccessionPlanning #ScaleYourBusiness #BusinessDevelopment #Growth #SuccessTips #GrowthMindset #FinancialAdvisorJourney #ExpertGuidance

The Final Question - Farewell Greg Stover Back in June 1999, as a 10 year old visiting the office, I didn't expect Greg Stover would one day have an impact on my life. Fast forward to Friday, June 28, 2024, and I had the privilege of witnessing Greg Stover answer the final question of his career at PPM. In the realm of true legends, some individuals quietly shape our world, leaving an indelible mark. Greg Stover is one such individual. For 29 and a half years, Greg was more than just an employee at PPM—he was a constant source of knowledge, a walking encyclopedia whose presence helped shape our company. If you asked him a question, you wouldn’t just get an answer—you’d get the backstory, the context, the nuanced details that made the knowledge richer and more meaningful. He knew the answers to questions even before they were asked, and yet, he patiently guided you through layers of understanding rather than handing you the answer outright. Greg is different than most people. He genuinely cares about understanding the world and, more importantly, sharing that understanding with others. In his own way, he was teaching whoever would listen the art of critical thinking. As Greg steps into retirement, it’s not just a farewell; it’s the end of an era. His departure is a reminder of how deeply interwoven he was in the fabric of PPM. The final question isn’t about the knowledge he shared but about the void he leaves behind...the legacy of stories, wisdom, and discussions that will echo long after he’s gone. Greg, your journey at PPM may have ended, but your story will continue to inspire, reminding us that sometimes, the greatest answers are found not in the destination, but in the journey itself.

In celebration of New Year's Day, I wanted to share my 2024 vision board with you all! I predict my year will be full of family time, community support, vacations, and protecting the Good Neighbors of Carlyle. What's on your vision board? Share your top 3 aspirations in the comments below! #NewYearNewGoals #DanRosenStateFarm

As 2023 comes to an end, I took some time to reflect on my top 10 wins and learnings. Here are some of my key takeaways from this year: 1. Trust your vision - I'm grateful that this year, my dream of opening an office in Downtown Detroit became a reality. It was a true lesson in patience and God's timing. 2. The job isn't done until it's done - I onboarded 6 amazing advisors and had 11 awesome people accept offers to join the movement. Many are wrapping up their licensing. 3. Life is short - I lost two amazing classmates and my grandmother this year. Their passing reminded me to live in the dash and make an impact every day. 4. Seeing my friends win big this year in my firm and outside was a true honor. Know that I’m rooting for everyone in my life to win big. 5. Control your controllable - there is no such thing as a perfect situation. Continue to show up every day, giving your best and owning your efforts. 6. Be present wherever your feet are - I'm grateful for my kids having amazing school years. Raising them to be great people that love and cherish family, God, and community is my greatest achievement. 7. Your village matters - grateful to my many mentors, family, and personal board of directors. You helped me navigate a very special year. Krystal Thompkins is the real MVP. 8. Your only competition is the person in the mirror - strive to be the best version of yourself always. 9. Focusing on outcomes takes you far - activity without outcomes is an optical illusion. 10. Consistency is key - dominate every day. What were some of your top wins and learnings this year? #2024YearEndReview #Reflections #Gratitude #dominatetheday Thrivent #TeamDetroit

Our beloved Blend turns 26 today. #blend #blendedfinance #structuredfinance #finance #internationalfinance

Gratitude fills our hearts as we embark on another financial year journey🌟 Thank you to our invaluable corporate partners, stakeholders, board members, and directors for your unwavering dedication and hard work. Your contributions propel us forward, and together, we're ready to achieve new heights. Here's to a successful year ahead! 🚀 #FinancialYear #Gratitude #Partnership #Teamwork"