As we move into 2026, most financial planning businesses will do what they have always done at this time of year. They will review performance, revisit goals, refine strategy, adjust operations and look closely at systems and processes. Some will do this thoroughly and thoughtfully; others will do it quickly, more out of obligation than conviction. Either way, the focus will be on the business. This is not wrong. A business needs direction and structure. It needs clarity around what it is...

For many financial planning businesses, the early years of an advisor’s career are the most uncertain. Firms invest in recruitment, training, compliance and support only to watch capable individuals leave the industry before reaching stability. On the advisor side, the pressure to generate clients quickly can feel overwhelming, especially in a market where consumers are cautious, competition is high and trust must be earned over time. The challenge is not a lack of talent. It is a lack of...

Coaching has always been part of FI Consult’s DNA even though we have never placed it on centre stage. It has grown organically through years of work alongside business owners and leadership teams, shaped in part by Jason Bernic’s experience coaching individuals across the financial-services landscape. It is also supported by associate coaches who bring something rare to this sector. These are individuals who combine deep financial-planning experience often including the Certified Financial...