Adam Solano is a seasoned financial advisor with 32 years of industry experience. A member of NAIFA, he has served in numerous roles in NAIFA — including serving as President of NAIFA Chicago and Illinois — and is a recognized leader and mentor within the financial services community. Adam previously ran for public office, imparting a richer understanding of client advocacy on Capitol Hill, and has taken on the responsibilities of succession, acquiring other practices, and nurturing their growth. He is passionate about maintaining a work-life balance and is currently authoring books to share his professional insights and personal philosophies.

Is there more to a financial advisor than just number crunching and portfolio management? Can the discipline of financial services intersect with the dynamic world of politics? How does one champion the needs of their clients on a much larger stage, and why is advocacy so crucial?

Adam Solano, an expert in the financial services industry, delves into his multifaceted career encompassing financial advising and active political lobbying. Starting with his roots in NAIFA and his leap into the political arena, he shares the crucial importance of advocacy efforts and the influence advisors have on policy-making. Adam highlights the resilience needed to face electoral defeats, manage client relationships through political divides, and continue to spearhead industry change. He opens up about his philosophy of being “top-of-the-table” at work and home, reflecting on the critical balance between professional accomplishments and personal fulfillment.

In this episode of Advisor Today, Chris Gandy and John Richardson sit down with Adam Solano, a seasoned financial advisor, about balancing life as a financial advisor with political aspirations. Adam discusses the intersection between financial advising and political advocacy, key takeaways from running for political office, the importance of staying grounded and focused on clients amidst political shifts, and the role of advocacy in shaping the financial services industry.