The Advisor Blueprint
Join hosts Jim Atkinson and Jordan Christa on The Advisor Blueprint: the essential podcast for financial advisors. Tailored for both RIA and Broker-Dealer professionals, each episode delivers actionable insights, expert strategies, and real-world guidance on the who, what, where, when, and why of advisor transitions. From evaluating new firms and navigating non-compete clauses to building your book of business and optimizing client relationships, Jim and Jordan break down every facet of the transition process.
Whether you're contemplating a move, planning for independence, or seeking to elevate your practice, The Advisor Blueprint equips you with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions and thrive in today’s dynamic financial advisory landscape.
The Advisor Blueprint
The Hidden Downsides of Private Equity in RIAs: Why Employee-Owned Firms Are Pulling Ahead in 2026
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Hosts Jordan Christa and Jim Atkinson (Head of M&A and Managing Partner at Avidian Wealth Solutions) team up with Chris Brown, a 20+ year RIA expert who built, sold, and led inside a major private equity-backed platform.
Chris delivers an unfiltered insider view on why private equity often falls short: overhyped growth promises that don't deliver, immediate loss of advisor autonomy, profit-margin obsession that harms client experience, equity value eroded by fees and carried interest, risky re-trading tactics, and short-term flips that prioritize exits over long-term success.
In contrast, as consolidation surges in 2025, employee-owned RIAs are gaining ground; scaling sustainably through cultural fit, patient innovation, AI efficiencies, and true independence without an "overlord" dictating decisions.
Critical insights for RIA founders and advisors: avoid the pitfalls of PE deals, spot the red flags, and discover why staying (or joining) employee-owned could be the smarter path for growth, culture, and client focus.
Disclaimer:
Avidian Wealth Solutions is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed.
Avidian is neither a law firm nor an accounting firm, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or accounting advice.
Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.
This information contained herein may be dated.