Category: Financial Advisor
Undead Advice: Why Financial Service Needs a Wake Up Call (Ep. 2)

Undead Advice: Why Financial Service Needs a Wake Up Call (Ep. 2)

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Most people assume financial advisors are always proactive, organized, and well coordinated, but the reality is far more human. 

In this episode, James Knapp and Gregg Sainsbury dig into why so many professionals fall into “zombie mode” without ever noticing it. They explore the habits, incentives, and gaps that quietly undermine planning while sharing the lessons Gregg learned early in his career from a mentor who believed service mattered more than products. The stories are real, relatable, and eye-opening for anyone who works with an advisor or is trying to be a better one.

What to expect:

  • Real examples of planning oversights and why they happen
  • How the industry’s incentives created generations of “zombie advisors”
  • Why estate planning and beneficiary checks get ignored year after year
  • A candid look at what true client-first service requires
  • And so much more!

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Connect with Gregg Sainsbury:

About Our Guest:

Gregg Sainsbury, CFP®, joined Boyum Wealth Architects as Chief Operating Officer in May 2025. He oversees operational excellence across all departments, prioritizing exceptional client service and experience. With 29 years in wealth management, Gregg has held diverse roles, including investment manager, financial advisor, financial planner, trainer, director of central planning, and public speaker. He holds a BA in Economics from Gustavus Adolphus College and an MBA in Entrepreneurship from the University of St. Thomas. Gregg earned his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP®) designation in 2001.

In his free time, he enjoys family moments, learning, reading, and golf.

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Welcome to the Apocalypse: Meet Your Zombie Advisor Host (Ep. 1)

Welcome to the Apocalypse: Meet Your Zombie Advisor Host (Ep. 1)

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In this inaugural episode of Zombie Advisor, James Knapp sits down with veteran broadcaster Patrice Sikora for a candid conversation about why so many professionals in financial services lose their curiosity, their humanity, and their commitment to real service. James shares the personal experiences that shaped his client-first philosophy, from an early encounter with transactional advice to his decision to leave the broker-dealer world and build a fiduciary firm focused on people, not products.

Using a memorable restaurant analogy, James explains how effective financial planning should work behind the scenes, with specialists supporting the process and an advisor serving as the front-of-the-house guide who listens, translates needs, and delivers a personalized experience. Throughout the conversation, James defines what he calls “Zombie Advisors”, professionals operating inside outdated systems that reward routines and sales over engagement and care.

The discussion draws a clear distinction between selling products and delivering real planning value. James explains why fiduciary responsibility matters for both advisors and clients, and how it changes the tone, trust, and long-term outcomes of the relationship. Rather than chasing assets or commissions, the focus shifts to understanding goals, emotions, and real-life decisions.

Key Takeaways

  • Why “Zombie Advisors” exist and how outdated systems create disengaged service
  • The restaurant analogy for modern financial planning roles
  • The difference between selling products and delivering real planning value
  • Why fiduciary responsibility matters for both advisors and clients

This episode is for advisors who feel stuck in legacy models and for clients who want more thoughtful, human guidance. It is a reminder that client-first service starts with curiosity, accountability, and the willingness to do things differently.

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