What if "retirement" is a trap, and what you really want is to graduate into something bigger?
In this episode, Matt and Lou sit down with Eric Brotman, CEO of BFG Financial Advisors, to blow up old ideas about retirement, wealth, and what business owners should actually be doing today so they’re ready for the future (whatever that looks like). Eric shares his start‑up origin story, explains how to grow a financial advisory firm that actually serves clients well, and gives a roadmap to exit planning that doesn’t leave you miserable.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
How Eric built BFG from one full‑time + one part‑time employee into a firm managing nearly $1B across 37 states, without selling out. (Startup → scale)
Why “retirement” is obsolete: Eric argues business owners should think about graduating instead.
Generational money attitudes: how Millennials are wired for the side hustle; Gen Z hates being sold to, they want advice.
The importance of accountability, behavior, and psychology (not just numbers) in financial planning.
Exit planning is not just about selling high. It’s about knowing your number, building your team, and preparing your life after the deal.
How tying nearly all your wealth to your business is risky. Diversification isn’t just for Wall Street folks.
The internal structure: salaried advisors, two advisors per client, young talent & apprenticeships. A firm built for sustainability, not churning.
Favorite Quote:
“The business is… sometimes their only asset. And you are immediately under-diversified if 70 or 80 or 90% of your net worth is tied up in your business.”
Who is Eric?
Eric D. Brotman is the founder & CEO of BFG Financial Advisors. He bootstrapped the firm over 20 years ago and now leads a wealth‑management & financial planning business with clients in dozens of states. He’s the author of Don’t Retire… Graduate!, and builds financial advice around people, not just numbers.
Why you should listen:
Don’t wait until you have to plan your exit. Hit play now to get strategies that move you from “just working” to building wealth you can use, and a legacy you’ll be proud of. If you own a business, this episode might save you years of regret (and dollars).
Connect with Eric:
Website: https://bfgfa.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebrotman
Facebook (Don’t Retire, Graduate!): https://www.facebook.com/DontRetireGraduate
Phone: +1 (410) 252-4555
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