No Bonds Podcast
NoBondsCast is a conversation about financial planning with intention. Hosted by founding partners Ben Beck, CFP®, and Jim Bode, the show explores how real people navigate financial decisions over time — through career peaks, family responsibilities, retirement transitions, and the unexpected moments that shape life.
Rather than focusing on headlines or predictions, NoBondsCast centers on clarity, tradeoffs, and long-term thinking — helping listeners understand not just what they’re doing with their money, but why.
Calm, practical, and grounded in real life.
No Bonds Podcast
Why We Left Merrill Lynch to Start our Own Firm| Beck Bode Founding Story
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On February 20, 2013, Ben Beck, CFP® and Jim Bode left Merrill Lynch to start Beck Bode, an independent RIA based out of Massachusetts while also serving clients in New Hampshire and Michigan. In this special anniversary episode of NoBondsCast, they tell the full founding story for the first time.
They talk about the 5 AM game plan, walking out of Merrill Lynch, the clients who followed without hesitation, building a planning-first approach, and where they see the firm heading over the next thirteen years.
Whether you're an advisor considering independence, a business owner thinking about your next chapter, or someone who wants to understand what drives the people managing your money, this one's worth your time.
In this episode, you'll hear:
- The morning of February 20, 2013 — and what it felt like walking out
- Why their clients didn't need convincing
- How the GPS planning philosophy evolved from a game plan into a living contract
- The personal experiences that made them better advisors
- Where they see Beck Bode heading over the next thirteen years
About the Podcast
The NoBonds Cast is a conversation-driven podcast exploring financial planning, investing, legacy, and the human side of money. Hosted by managing partners, Ben Beck, CFP®, and Jim Bode, the show is designed to help listeners think more clearly about their financial lives and the decisions that shape them.
Important Disclosure
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, or tax advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests as of the date of recording and may change. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results.
Learn More
Visit beckbode.com to learn more about our planning process or to schedule a conversation with our team.
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