The Realities and Rewards of Going Independent (Ep. 12)

Many advisors dream of independence, but is it truly freedom or simply a new set of challenges?

In this episode, Carmine Corino and Daren Blonski reveal what happens behind the scenes when advisors leave large firms. From retention rates to hidden costs, they share candid stories and practical insights.

Their honest conversation exposes the myths and realities of independence, helping advisors make informed choices for themselves and their clients.

Carmine and Daren discuss:

• How high retention rates can be achieved when transitioning clients

• The hidden costs behind “big checks” offered by firms, and how firms recoup those incentives

• The importance of clients “rehiring” their advisor during a transition and how loyalty often rests with the individual, not the firm

• How attorneys, CPAs, and clients perceive independence, and why personal relationships outweigh firm affiliations

Resources:

• Broken Dealer: Navigating the Path to Financial Advisor Independence by Carmine Corino and Daren Blonski

Connect with Daren Blonski:

• LinkedIn: Daren Blonski

• Sonoma Wealth Advisors

Connect with Carmine Corino:

• LinkedIn: Carmine Corino

• Cornerstone Planning Group