Our guest today shares how not only are students of all ages needing financial guidance, the solutions available to them can completely change the way we look at student loan repayment and consolidation.

In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Erik Kroll, CFP®, the founder of Hilltop Financial Advisors and Student Loans Over 50.

Erik's journey in the financial advisory world began in 2015 when he set out to create a business that could afford him the opportunity to blend work with the rest of his active lifestyle. Originally a versatile advisor, Erik's expertise naturally evolved over time, leading him to identify a crucial need in the market—helping older clients nearing retirement navigate their substantial student loan burdens. He tells stories about how he has changed the financial landscape for his clients,  including helping one client eliminate over $250,000 in student loan debt practically overnight!

We discussed how he manages the two brands of the company, as well as what he's hoping to accomplish with his business. One really unique thing that Erik has built is a tiered service model that allows him to work with clients at different stages of their financial journey—something that many financial advisors have trouble navigating. For those looking at a great example of how to do this successfully, be sure to tune in!

You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/368  

We often hear how the network of support and connection that XYPN offers is a strong component of success. In today's episode, we learn that for our guest, Leland Gross, CFP®, the founder of PeaceLink Financial Planning, "community" wasn't just a benefit, it was essential after a life-changing event pulled his focus from building his business.

Leland discovered financial planning after meeting some advisors through a volunteer program he was part of just after college. He noticed that the advisors were able to work hard while also coaching kids' sports teams and having time to volunteer. Appreciating the flexibility he saw, he decided it was a fit for him. He started his career on the sales side of the business, but over time discovered fee-only planning and the opportunities it presented to him.

In September 2021, Leland launched his firm and discovered that same month that his wife was pregnant! Three months later, they received the devastating news that their baby would need open heart surgery just after birth. Leland shares how his XYPN study group jumped in to help him keep his business from failing. While he focused on his family, they got set up so they could call Schwab on the client's behalf, helped craft emails and communications to clients, and basically did anything else they could do to support him while he cared for his family.

With their assistance during that critical time, and Leland's strategic social media and podcast leveraging, he is now serving 45 client households (in less than 18 months!) in the self-employed niche—all while experiencing major changes and hardships to his growing family. Leland’s story really shows how perseverance and support can get us through unimaginably difficult times and help us still find success. This is a story you won’t want to miss!

You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/367