Upcoming Events

Join NAIFA Greater Foothills for an energizing lunch program featuring Thomas Michel, CLTC — Past President of NAIFA and a nationally respected leader in the financial services industry. With decades of advisor production, leadership experience, and a practical, advisor-centric perspective, Tom is known for delivering candid, experience-based insights that help financial professionals build stronger, more resilient practices.

Session Title:
Insure Your Future: Are You Ready?

Program Description:
Insuring your future is one of your most important responsibilities as an advisor. This doesn’t just mean selling insurance, providing financial planning, or managing assets—it means evaluating your entire business. Are you building a practice with long-term staying power?

Tom Michel, NAIFA National Past President, will explore what it truly takes to build a business designed to last, focusing on the three essential pillars: People, Process, and Product. He will challenge you to consider the priorities that drive profitability and share key ideas and practical considerations that can help you make small changes with big impact. Walk away with fresh insight and actionable strategies to insure your business for the future.

Special Experience: Live Music:
Enjoy a lively and welcoming atmosphere with live music during the event—adding an extra touch of energy and connection as you network and learn alongside fellow professionals.

Location:
Courtyard by Marriott (Pasadena)
180 N. Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103

Parking: $7

Registration:
Members: $30
Non-Members: $55

Step into the next evolution of advanced planning and business-owner strategy at E3 Nexus, NAIFA-California’s premier gathering for forward-thinking advisors, planners, and professionals serving high-income earners and entrepreneurial clients. Formerly known as the Business Owner Planning Summit, this enhanced experience brings even greater depth, expertise, and collaboration—all in one powerful day designed to help you elevate your practice, empower your clients, and evolve with a rapidly changing landscape.

Join us in San Diego for dynamic sessions led by nationally recognized experts, in-depth discussions on emerging tax strategies, and real-world insights you can take straight into your client conversations. Whether you’re focused on complex tax planning, retirement strategies, business transitions, or holistic advisory work, E3 Nexus equips you with the tools to thrive.

Featured Sessions & Speakers

Bruce Jones, CEO, TaxWealth, Inc.
Session: “Cracking the Code: Advanced Tax Planning for High-Income Earners”

With more than 50 years in the financial services industry, Bruce Jones is a renowned educator and strategist whose expertise spans comprehensive tax planning for real estate owners, private business owners, and clients with highly appreciated assets. As founder and CEO of TaxWealth, Inc., Bruce supports professionals nationwide in solving their clients’ toughest tax challenges.

Nicholas Paleveda, MBA, J.D., LL.M, CEO, National Pension Partners
Session: “Tax-Deductible Life Insurance in Retirement Plans: Section 412(e)(3) Secrets”

A national leader in pension design and advanced tax strategies, Nick Paleveda brings decades of experience as an attorney, educator, and top producer in the life insurance and retirement planning space. His insights into 412(e)(3) plans unlock powerful, often overlooked opportunities for high-income clients.

Shelley Lightfoot, CEPA
Panelist — Session Details Coming Soon

With nearly 40 years of experience in financial and legal services, Shelley Lightfoot is a respected leader in advanced planning, exit strategy design, and advisor collaboration. Her work with The Southern California Institute, Strazzeri Mancini LLP, and The Founders Group has helped countless professionals deliver more comprehensive solutions to successful families and business owners.

Why Attend E3 Nexus?

• Insightful keynotes and advanced-planning content you won’t hear anywhere else

• Practical tools for working with high-income earners and complex business clients

• Networking with top-tier advisors, experts, and solution providers

• A collaborative environment designed to spark ideas and elevate your practice

Registration
$99 for Members
$149 for Non-Members

Registration includes lunch.

Location
Pechanga Resort and Casino
45000 Pechanga Pkwy #45000
Temecula, CA 92592)

Join NAIFA Inland Empire for a lively St. Patrick’s Day–themed gathering designed to bring advisors together for connection, conversation, and a bit of good luck. We’ll toast the occasion with Guinness, enjoy time with local members, and share ideas on how to build a stronger, more intentional practice in 2026—because success shouldn’t be left to chance.

More details, speakers, and registration information will be announced soon. Save the date and plan to join us for an afternoon of fun, networking, and advisor-focused insights.

Join us in celebrating the 2026 Will G. Farrell Public Service Award, honoring Thomas Petersen of Petersen International. This year marks a special milestone as Thomas and his late father, Harold Petersen (2002 honoree), become the first father–son recipients of this distinguished Los Angeles award.

The Will G. Farrell Public Service Award recognizes individuals in the financial services industry who exemplify a lifetime of dedication to public welfare and professional excellence, continuing the legacy of Will G. Farrell, co-founder of the Life Insurance Committee of the L.A. Chamber of Commerce.

Established in 1949 and now jointly presented by NAIFA–Los Angeles and the Society of Financial Service Professionals (FSP), this event celebrates a longstanding tradition of leadership, service, and impact within the profession.

Each year, NAIFA-California members gather in Sacramento to advocate at the Capitol during our Legislative Day on the Hill. Join us to stay informed on key legislative issues impacting the insurance industry and make your voice heard during direct meetings with your state legislators. This is a powerful opportunity to protect our industry and the clients we serve.

Agenda:

• 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Meeting Preparation & Luncheon

• 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Legislative Visits

Registration:
$75.00 for Members/Non-Members

Hotel Rate:
Embassy Suites Sacramento — A room block will be available; details to come.

Location:
Sutter Club
1220 9th St
Sacramento, CA 95814

Please note: The 2026 Sales Summit will take place the day prior on April 14, hosted by the Greater Sacramento Valley affiliate chapter. It will be held at the Embassy Suites Sacramento. Additional event information and separate registration, as well as details on the hotel room block, will be shared soon.

Join NAIFA-California for a holiday luncheon. Connect with fellow industry professionals and toast together to another successful year ahead.

Getting busy with year end parties, meetings and finishing the year strong? Great! Add this one ZOOM meeting on to provide you food for thought as you have close out conversations for the year and prep your clients for their 2025 tax return next April! Kevin Wright, CPA and Financial Advisor affiliated with Capstone Accountancy will be sharing year end tax ideas and important considerations as you prep your client for their return next year!

Join us on December 11, 2025 at 10 AM for this special session hosted by Greater Bay Area and Greater Sacramento Valley.

The program is open to all members and free to register, making it an easy and valuable addition to your year-end planning.

Start your day with a great breakfast and fresh ideas. This morning workshop series brings together local professionals to share practical strategies for connecting with clients, building trust, and growing your business.

One of our featured speakers is John Weyhgandt, CEO and Founder of Western States Financial and Investments, established in 1994. John has lived in Corona since 1974 and is deeply involved in the community, serving on the Corona Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors (and as Chairman in 2018) as well as on several nonprofit boards, including Zoi Medical. As an independent financial fiduciary and Registered Investment Advisor, John brings decades of experience helping clients achieve financial confidence.

In his session, “From Teaching to Leading: How to Run Workshops that Win Appointments,” John will share how he transformed his approach from simply teaching financial facts to leading workshops that consistently generate new client appointments. He’ll cover what works, what doesn’t, and how to turn your next presentation into a productive client-building opportunity.

You will also hear from Kariann Voorhees in a session titled " Top 10 Estate Planning Mistakes Advisors See (and how to fix them)". Kariann founded Voorhees Law Group, PC to serve the unique needs of growing families and business owners. Combining her business and real estate experience with a passion for teaching, Kariann provides comprehensive estate planning and guidance tailored to each client’s goals.

Her practice ranges from probate avoidance, incapacity planning, and estate settlement to advising high-net-worth families on complex issues including income tax, estate tax, and asset protection. Known for her clarity and empathy, Kariann takes pride in simplifying complex legal matters and helping clients make confident, informed decisions.

Beyond her practice, Kariann is co-founder of the Mandros Family Foundation, which supports families facing medical hardship, and serves as President of the Inland Empire Chapter of the Exit Planning Institute, fostering collaboration among advisors serving business owners.
Kariann lives in Yorba Linda with her husband and three children, where they enjoy camping, hiking, and cheering on Chicago’s sports teams—especially the Cubs’ historic World Series win.

Enjoy good food, great conversation, and valuable insights you can put to work right away.

Registration Rates:
$25 members
$35 non-member

Location Name:
Dos Lagos Golf Course
4507 Cabot Dr
Corona, CA 92883

California’s election results are in—what do they mean for our industry? Join NAIFA-CA for a fast-paced briefing on the outcomes, leadership shifts, and policy dynamics most likely to affect insurance and financial services professionals. We’ll cover what to watch in the coming legislative session, regulatory timelines, and how NAIFA-CA advocacy is positioning our members for success. Bring your questions—plenty of time for live Q&A.

When:
Thursday, November 13, 2 PM PT

Where:
Zoom (link to follow upon registration)

Who should attend:
Agents, advisors, firm leaders, compliance/ops, and advocacy-minded members.

You’ll learn:

• Key election results relevant to our profession

• Implications for taxes, consumer protection, and small business issues

• What’s next in Sacramento and how to get involved with NAIFA-CA

Join NAIFA-San Diego and Joseph Strazzeri of Strazzeri Mancini on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM for the next session in the Advanced Planning Workshop Series. This interactive lunchtime session, Attracting and Engaging $20MM+ Families and Business Owners – Language, Tools, and Strategies, is designed for advisors ready to take their client base to the next level.

Explore the nuances of working with ultra-affluent clients, including how to communicate effectively, deliver unique value, and build relationships that lead to long-term collaboration. Through real case studies and practical application, you'll gain insight into what these clients are really looking for—and how to become the advisor who delivers.

Takeaways include:

1. The mindset, language, and expectations of $20MM+ families and business owners

2. Tools and techniques to attract and retain high-net-worth clients

3. Insights into advanced planning needs at higher wealth tiers

4. Real-world case study discussions and examples of successful engagements

5. Strategies to elevate your role as a collaborative partner in the client's advisory team

Lunch will be provided.

Registration:

$35 for NAIFA members | $45 for non-members

Location:
Southern California Institute (Located in the UCSD Building)
6256 Greenwich Dr, Suite 115
San Diego, CA 92122

There is a 3-level parking structure with free and ample parking.

Let’s connect, stay informed, and grow together.

Risks of Premium-Financed Life Insurance & What Financial Professionals Need to Know - Plus: History & Current Activities of Life Happens

📅 Tuesday, October 28, 2025
🕚 11:00 a.m. PT / 2:00 p.m. ET
📍 Join via Zoom or attend a local Watch Party

Session Overview

Join authors Richard M. “Dick” Weber and Gerard J. “Jerry” Vanderzanden for a discussion on the complexities of premium-financed life insurance—how these products interact with real-world economic conditions, best practices for evaluating them, and key analytical techniques financial professionals should know.

Attendees are encouraged to read the presenters’ article in the FSP Journal beforehand:

Read the article here, beginning on page 42.

Speakers

Dick Weber, MBA, CLU, AEP (Distinguished)
Insurance Fiduciary®️ with nearly 60 years of experience in life insurance, client advocacy, and ethical financial practices. Past President of the Society of Financial Service Professionals and adjunct faculty at Texas Tech University.

Gerard J. Vanderzanden, CLU, ChFC, CLTC
Insurance Fiduciary®️ and consultant specializing in insurance planning, analytics, and expert witness services. Former insurance executive and board member of the Life Insurance Consumer Advocacy Center.

Brian Steiner, Executive Director, Life Happens
Leads national efforts to promote financial literacy and the importance of life insurance. Former NAIFA Vice President of Business Development and President of United Wealth Advisors Group.

Watch Party Locations

Sunnyvale, CA
Hosted by Jesse Dogillo, CFP & Nancy Williamson, Attorney-at-Law
102 Persian Drive, Suite 101
Sunnyvale, CA 94089

San Jose, CA
Hosted by Ryan Ballesteros
NYL Conference Room
25 Metro Drive, #300
San Jose, CA 95110

💻 Zoom link provided upon registration

For more information
📧 janetnaifasiliconvalley@yahoo.com
📞 213-359-0389

Unwind and connect with fellow industry professionals at NAIFA-California’s Valley Golf Happy Hour, proudly sponsored by Nationwide Retirement Services. Enjoy an afternoon of networking, camaraderie, and refreshments in a relaxed setting. Whether you're hitting the course or simply enjoying the company, this is the perfect opportunity to strengthen relationships and recharge with your peers.

Valley Golf Center
41445 Ave 9
Fresno, CA 93720

Join us for a dynamic half-day gathering of financial advisors and insurance professionals focused on elevating strategies for serving affluent and high-net-worth clients. This in-person event will feature industry thought leaders sharing fresh perspectives and actionable insights on navigating complex client needs in today’s evolving wealth landscape.

Matthew Grishman, CEPA, Whole Wealth Strategist, author, and podcast host, will present “The Cobbler’s Kids Have No Shoes: Why financial professionals need financial professionals”, offering practical strategies and insights you can apply immediately to better serve your clients.

Ray LaDieu, CFP, ChFC, Senior Client Strategist at BNY Wealth, will lead the session “Accessing and Retaining Ultra-High Net Worth Clients”. This session guides attendees through a 10-step process for building relationships with ultra-high net worth clients, understanding their unique needs, and providing tailored solutions. Learn how to acquire and retain these clients by delivering the high level of service, expertise, and personalized attention they expect, all while establishing a strong reputation and loyal client base.

Troy Bender, MSM, MSFS, AEP, CLU, ChFC, NQPC, QPA, QKA, Director of Insurance Solutions at Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., will present a discussion on trust-owned annuities strategies, with a special emphasis on RILA funding considerations. Attendees will gain insights into structuring these strategies effectively to meet client goals while navigating complex planning scenarios.

Stay tuned for additional expert speakers who will be joining the lineup with even more ideas and strategies to help you grow your practice and deepen client relationships.

Attendees will enjoy breakfast, networking opportunities, and access to expert knowledge designed to help you deliver exceptional value to clients at every stage of their financial journey. Whether you’re looking to expand your expertise, deepen client relationships, or explore new growth opportunities, this summit will inspire and equip you to lead with confidence.

Location:

620 Coolidge Drive
Folsom, CA 95630

Space is limited—secure your spot today.

Level Up Your Career at NAIFA California’s 2025 Career Advancement Conference in Newport Beach!

Empower. Educate. Engage. These core pillars define e3 Collaborate, a premier conference that is reshaping the future of wealth management and insurance. This exclusive event brings together financial advisors, insurance professionals, and tech innovators to explore cutting-edge solutions that will drive the industries forward.

As the wealth and insurance sectors face constant change, staying ahead is key. e3 Collaborate empowers attendees by fostering cross-sector collaboration and providing the latest tools, insights, and strategies to excel in a rapidly evolving marketplace. More than just a conference, this event serves as a hub where technology, ideas, and partnerships converge to revolutionize client service and business growth.

Reserve a Table of 8 – Our Best Deal Yet!

Looking to bring your whole team to e3? Take advantage of our Table of 8 package—just $3,000 for eight full-access attendee passes (that’s only $375 per person, our lowest rate offered).

Here’s how it works:

1. Email us at info@naifacalifornia.org to request a Table of 8.

2. We’ll send you an invoice for $3,000 and provide a promo code that waives the registration cost for all eight attendees.

3. You’ll then register your team using the code.

That’s it—your group is in!

What to Expect at e3 Collaborate:

Innovative Wealth & Insurance Solutions: Discover the latest technologies and trends transforming the wealth management and insurance industries. From AI-driven platforms to next-gen insurtech, uncover tools that help financial professionals stay at the forefront of client service and portfolio management.

Networking & Collaboration: Build valuable connections with industry peers and thought leaders through curated networking sessions. Whether during breakout discussions or 1:1 meetings, gain insights that foster actionable partnerships and growth.

Educational Insights for Financial Advisors: Learn from top experts in wealth management, insurance, and technology. Keynote speakers, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops provide the knowledge and strategies you need to elevate your practice.

Empowering Financial Advisors through Technology: Explore how digital innovation is transforming wealth and insurance practices. Learn how technology can automate processes, improve client engagement, and optimize business strategies for the future.

e3 Collaborate is more than just an event—it’s where professionals from the wealth and insurance sectors come together to embrace innovation, build lasting relationships, and create the future of financial services.

Location:
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach
1107 Jamboree Road
Newport Beach, CA 92660, USA

Reserve your room by September 1, 2025 to take advantage of our group room rate!

Artificial Intelligence (AI) isn’t replacing financial advisors—it’s helping the best ones scale their impact. In this session, Dr. Eric Ludwig shares practical, research-backed strategies from over 3,000 advisor-client meetings and new AI segmentation data. Learn how to tailor your approach to different client types, increase acceptance of your recommendations, and use AI to save time without losing trust. From persuasion techniques to targeting high-opportunity client segments, this session provides blueprints for how advisors can stay ahead in an AI-enhanced profession while deepening the human connection that clients value most.

2 Locations for Watch Parties or Zoom Option

About the Speaker:
Eric T. Ludwig, PhD, CFP®, RICP®, is an accomplished retirement income planning expert, assistant professor of Retirement Income, and RICP® program director. As director of the Center for Retirement Income at The American College of Financial Services, Eric is passionate about developing research and innovative solutions that help investors achieve financial security and personal fulfillment, two essential components of overall retirement well-being.

Ludwig’s over ten years of experience as CEO and wealth manager at Stockbridge Private Wealth Management bring a practical and dynamic perspective to academia. He began his financial planning career at a large financial institution, where he was nominated for Financial Advisor of the Year and awarded the Horizon Award, Inner Circle Recognition Award, and President's Club distinctions for ranking as one of the firm's leading financial planners. He has been a Kansas State University and UCLA professor and served as a subject matter expert for a fintech company. As a nationally recognized writer and researcher in behavioral finance and retirement planning, Ludwig has presented peer-reviewed research at the American Council of Consumer Interests (ACCI), AFCPE® Symposium, and CFP® Board Academic Research Colloquium. He is on the editorial advisory board of the Journal of Financial Planning.

Ludwig completed his PhD at Kansas State University in Personal Financial Planning and holds a master's degree in finance from the University of Colorado and a bachelor's degree in aeronautical science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He has earned both the CFP® and the RICP®.

WATCH PARTY LOCATIONS:

Sunnyvale Watch Party 
Hosted by Jesse Dogillo, CFP, NAIFA National Trustee 
& Nancy Williamson, Attorney-at-Law 
102 Persian Drive, Suite 101 
Sunnyvale, CA 94089 

San Jose Watch Party
Hosted by Ryan Ballesteros
In the NYL Conference Room
25 Metro Drive, #300
San Jose, CA 95110

ZOOM LINK WILL BE PROVIDED UPON REGISTRATION

Reverse mortgages are everywhere—and so are the opinions. But how much of what you’ve heard is accurate?

In this 60-minute webinar, retired financial advisor and accountant Brady Mullen—author of two best-selling books, "Real Decisions: The Financial Impact of Renting and Owning" and "Reverse Mortgages: The Financial Ugly Duckling"—takes financial professionals behind the curtain for a clear, balanced look at reverse mortgages. This isn’t a sales pitch. It’s a chance to hear from someone who's dedicated his career to helping people understand the financial impact of their real estate-related choices and now leads conversations with financial advisors, accountants, attorneys, and real estate agents across the country on these topics.

Whether you’re skeptical, curious, or somewhere in between, you’ll walk away with a better understanding of how reverse mortgages really work, when they may or may not be a fit, and what myths are getting in the way of good conversations. Your clients will ask about them - get the information you need to confidently answer them.

This course qualifies for 1 hour of CE credit for IAR, CFP, RICP, ChFC, & CLU .

About Our Speaker:

Brady Mullen: Personal Finance and Real Estate Specialist

With 19 years’ experience in the accounting and financial planning industries, Brady Mullen is a seasoned professional recognized for his practical insights. He has consistently delivered results that empower individuals to make informed decisions.

Brady's career began in the world of financial planning, where he honed his expertise and developed an understanding of financial landscapes. However, his passion for simplifying complex financial data and translating it into practical tools for better lives led him to take a bold step into the realm of real estate.

Today, Brady is on a mission to help people gain clarity on the financial impact of their real estate decisions. He firmly believes that by making the intricacies of real estate more accessible, individuals can realize greater potential and improve their quality of life. He has co-authored two best-selling books on the integration of real estate into the financial planning process.

In a world where financial guidance can often seem controversial, Brady Mullen dissects ideas into actionable insights, ensuring that individuals have the tools they need to thrive. His commitment to simplifying the complex is not just a profession—it's a passion.

Join NAIFA-San Diego and Joseph Strazzeri of Strazzeri Mancini on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM for the next session in the Advanced Planning Workshop Series. This powerful lunchtime workshop, Advanced Wealth Strategies Matrix Organized by Planning Goals & Small Group Interactive Case Study Design, dives into high-impact planning techniques and real-world applications that advisors can immediately use to elevate their conversations and deepen client value.

This session offers a fresh approach to organizing complex wealth strategies by client goals and applying them through interactive, small group case studies. You’ll walk away with a practical understanding of how to collaborate more effectively, engage clients in meaningful ways, and expand your value as a trusted advisor.

Takeaways include:

1. A framework to better organize and present advanced strategies in alignment with specific client goals

2. Techniques for facilitating high-level conversations using real case scenarios

3. Insights into collaborating across disciplines to serve affluent families and business owners

4. Tools to position yourself as a key team member in helping clients reduce, defer, or eliminate taxation

5. Updates on the latest trends impacting advanced planning, including tax and legal considerations

Lunch will be provided.

Registration:
$25 for NAIFA members | $25 for non-members 

Location:
Southern California Institute (Located in the UCSD Building)
6256 Greenwich Dr, Suite 115
San Diego, CA 92122

There is a 3-level parking structure with free and ample parking.

Let’s connect, stay informed, and grow together.

Join NAIFA-California for an engaging and informative lunch meeting at The Point Patio & Bistro in Fresno. Connect with fellow industry professionals while gaining valuable insights to support your career growth. This educational session is designed to inspire, inform, and equip you with tools to thrive in the insurance and financial services industry.

Don’t miss this opportunity to network, enjoy a great meal, and advance your professional development.

The Point Patio Bar & Bistro
2940 E Nees Ave #107
Fresno, CA 93720

There is a 70% chance your clients will need some form of long term care in their lifetime. Hybrid long term care insurance is typically bought by mass affluent investors due to the 6 figure premiums. Now a radical new mortgage product can make single premium LTCi affordable with a payment that is a fraction of in-home-care monthly cost.

Free to attend!

Robert E. Strauss, Esq. will present a case study on Advanced Estate Planning.

Robert E. Strauss is an attorney and director at the law firm of Weinstock and Manion. Rob skillfully guides high net worth families, business owners and real estate developers and investors through the complex process of estate and wealth transfer planning. Rob approaches each client with a fresh perspective, conducting extensive discovery to discern their unique objectives, challenges and concerns. By considering a client’s full array of needs, assets and goals, Rob develops creative and customized solutions that reduce estate taxes, achieve liability and creditor protection, and, if desired, incorporate charitable giving and life insurance planning. Rob applies experience as a transactional attorney to advise owners of businesses and real estate regarding business succession plans and pre-liquidity event wealth transfer plans. Rob is a teacher of Advanced Estate Planning at UCLA Extension as well as a frequent speaker and author of articles. He obtained his law degree from UCLA and his bachelors degree in economics from Harvard.

Free for both members and non-members.

Join us for a powerhouse half-day event designed for financial advisors and insurance professionals looking to better serve high and ultra-high net worth clients. This in-person symposium features top industry leaders sharing cutting-edge strategies for wealth transfer, tax-efficient diversification, estate planning, and client acquisition.

Topics and speakers include:

• The Great Wealth Opportunity – Sterling Moore, CIBC Private Wealth

• Tax-Efficient Diversification – Phil Manning, AssetMark

• Premium Finance & Estate Tax Planning – Richard Lewis, MassMutual Northern California

• Accessing & Retaining Ultra-HNW Clients – Ray LaDieu, BNY Wealth

Enjoy breakfast and networking as you connect with peers and gain insight into delivering a true family office experience—whether your clients are millionaires or billionaires.

View the full agenda by clicking here.

Open to members and guests. Space is limited—register today!

Lesher Center for the Arts
1601 Civic Dr
Walnut Creek, CA 94596

Join NAIFA-San Diego and Joseph Strazzeri of Strazzeri Mancini on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM for the kickoff of the Advanced Planning Workshop Series, a powerful lunchtime session exploring advanced planning strategies and real case studies. Learn practical tools and techniques to help advisors better serve affluent families and business owners through high-level conversations and collaborative planning.

Takeaways:

• Advanced Estate Planning Strategies, Business Owners and Taxation, Asset Protection, and Charitable Planning
• Understand how to help business owners with their integrated personal & business legal, financial, and tax planning in a changing economic environment.
• Updates regarding changes in interest rates, regulations, income taxes, and estate tax exemptions.
• Key conversation drivers and planning opportunities that will allow clients to realize their expanded possibilities.
• Learn the techniques/strategies and strike to be a valuable member of the NAIFA team by radically reducing, eliminating, or delaying taxes due on sale, and therefore increasing your clients long term cash flow and net proceeds. 

Lunch will be provided.

Registration: $35 for NAIFA members | $45 for non-members.

Let’s connect, stay informed, and grow together.

Location:
Southern California Institute (Located in the UCSD Building)
6256 Greenwich Dr, Suite 250
San Diego, CA 92122

There is a 3-level parking structure with free and ample parking.

Join NAIFA Orange County for a timely and insightful session featuring expert speakers Matthew Phillips of First Trust, discussing Target Outcome Investments and Buffer Strategies, and Heath Goldman of ICON Wealth and Legacy Partners, presenting on PPLI.

About our Speakers:

Heath Goldman, CSPG (Certified Specialist in Planned Giving)
President/CEO of ICON Wealth and Legacy Partners

Heath Goldman is the President/CEO of ICON Wealth and Legacy Partners. Heath acts as your financial architect.  Prior to joining ICON, Heath was a member of Sagemark Consulting's Financial Planning team and worked for PaineWebber in their Private Client Group.

With his experiences, Heath is able to serve as a valuable resource to his client's planning team by systematically addressing each need and helping to aid in achieving his client's objectives before implementing specific recommendations. With his on-going commitment to community service in his life outside of the office, Heath is well versed to provide charitable planning advice in his daily discussions with clients.

Heath holds FINRA series 7, 63 and 65 registrations and is currently insurance licensed in CA (OB98871) and TX for life/health/disability. 

Heath is a graduate of the University of Arizona, where he was a Rhodes Scholarship nominee. He is currently a board member (program chair) of The Association for Corporate Growth 101 chapter and a founding member and current President of Zeta Beta Tau Southern California Alumni Association. Heath is married to Wendy and they have two children, Sydney and Riley. Heath enjoys sports and traveling with his family.

Matthew Phillips

Vice President | Structured Investments

Matt is a Vice President for First Trust’s financial professional relationships in Southern California. He works closely with each financial professional to provide him or her with industry-leading economic and market commentary, portfolio analysis and practice management consulting. Matt’s specific focus is on tailored risk-management solutions and structured investments. His relationships include Registered Investment Advisors and Independent Firms.

Prior to his current role, Matt was a Vice President selling Unit Investment Trusts in Orange County and Los Angeles County. Prior to that, Matt was a Vice President selling Structured Investments in Southern California. Matt started his financial career at First Trust on the Structured Product desk as an internal for the entire western United States.

Matt earned a BA in Social Sciences Education from North Dakota State University, where he also played football and earned a Master’s degree in Administrative Leadership from Minnesota State University Moorhead.

Location:
Prego
2409 Park Ave
Tustin, CA 92782

Cost:
Members: $25
Non-Members: $35

NAIFA-California is bringing together thought leaders in the field of advanced planning for business owners for a day of high-impact presentations, workshops, exhibitors, and networking. Topics include planning for business owners, business succession planning, life insurance strategies for business owners, employee stock ownership plans, exit strategies, and MORE!

Location:
Ventana Grill
2575 Price Street
Pismo Beach, CA 93449

About the Sessions:

"Asset Conservation – The Keystone…Disability Insurance"
Presented by Tom Petersen

Estate Planning begins with income planning. Income planning cannot be done without an adequate disability estate program. Jump in bed and cover up your head and vow not to spend any more money! You cannot do it! Exploring the reasons why people should have disability insurance and armed with information and statistics will assist insurance producers understand why disability insurance is so crucial.

Topics:

• NAIFA Membership Values & Benefits – Rich Coffin

• LTC – Long Term Care – Nationwide – Tyler A. Schafer

• Reverse Mortgage – Don McCnie

• Living Trust/Probate – Atty. Dilair Nafoosi

Location:
Ecospan Insurance Services, Inc
412 W. Broadway, Suite 200
Glendale, CA 91204

PLEASE RSVP TO:

• Elizabeth: 818-687-2415

• Michael: 818-431-7952

• Claire: 323-363-2880

SNACKS. LUNCH. DOOR PRIZES. 

Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself! — Brian Tracy

We look forward to you joining us for lunch, awards event, and a golf game.

Registration:
NAIFA Members - $75.00
Non-members - $85.00
Table For 10 People - $700.00

Join NAIFA-California for an engaging and informative lunch meeting at The Point Patio & Bistro in Fresno. Connect with fellow industry professionals while gaining valuable insights to support your career growth. This educational session is designed to inspire, inform, and equip you with tools to thrive in the insurance and financial services industry.

Don’t miss this opportunity to network, enjoy a great meal, and advance your professional development.

The Point Patio Bar & Bistro
2940 E Nees Ave #107
Fresno, CA 93720

Carly Rosswurm, Director of Medicare Solutions at Ash Brokerage, is here to cover some of the top Medicare questions and issues including: Important 2025 Medicare updates, is Medicare needed if working past 65, where to get more coverage, and Medicare costs. Join us for this informative program so that you and your clients can navigate the Medicare maze and make informed choices regarding important health care options after retirement.

Additionally, Mike McGlothlin will cover some of the recent changes to Social Security, impacts to its funding, and planning opportunities for all financial professionals to grow their business by integrating Social Security conversations in their retirement income planning.

About Carly:

Carly Rosswurm is the Director of Medicare Solutions at Ash Brokerage. Carly graduated from Indiana University with a degree in business and concentration in marketing. Since then, Carly has been very involved in the realm of Medicare. She has been Life & Health licensed for 18 years, and has experience in Medicare marketing, contracting, compliance, Continuing Education, and sales.

About Mike:

Mike is known for being a team leader, an industry activist and Hoosier basketball devotee. His decades of experience in the financial services industry, dedication to lifelong learning and self-improvement, and a stint as a student manager under renowned Coach Bob Knight have shaped him into the leader he is today. His team has grown from $500 million in sales to over $4 billion annually in the last 12 years. He has won the Trailblazer Award from Allego for his innovative vision on communication. In January of 2025, Mike was the recipient of the distinguished Ken Black, Jr award from FSP/NAIFA for his commitment to ethics, education, and relationships.

Held in Conjunction with the NAIFA-California Sales Summit on March 25, 2025.

Agenda:
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Meeting Preparation & Luncheon
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Legislative Visits

Registration:

• Legislative Day Only: $75
• Sales Summit Only: $50/Members or $75/Non-Members
• Both Events - $125/Members or $150/Non-Members
  (No discount for combined registration)

Hotel Rate:
$279/night at Embassy Suites (book by March 4, 2025)

Each year, NAIFA-California members gather in Sacramento to advocate at the Capitol during our Legislative Day on the Hill. Join us to stay informed on key legislative issues impacting the insurance industry, and make your voice heard during direct meetings with your state legislators. This is a powerful opportunity to protect our industry and the clients we serve.

Held in Conjunction with the 2025 Legislative Day on the Hill on March 26, 2025.

Make plans to attend the NAIFA-California Sales Summit on March 25, the day before our annual Legislative Day on the Hill. This one-day event is designed to empower local members by providing top-tier education on the most pressing issues facing insurance professionals today. Whether you're looking to sharpen your sales skills, gain insights on industry trends, or strengthen your role as a trusted advisor, this summit offers invaluable opportunities to enhance your expertise.

This year’s summit features an outstanding lineup of industry-leading speakers, including Shane Westhoelter, Founder/CEO of Gateway Financial Advisors, who will share key lessons from growing his business to $30 million in revenue. Devon Brosnahan, Practice Management Consultant, will discuss how to craft a vision that drives business success, and Wesley Dickerson of Cambridge Investment Research will provide insights on business development strategies.

Throughout the afternoon, attendees will gain actionable strategies on sales techniques, client engagement, and business growth, all designed to help advisors elevate their practice. The event will conclude with a networking reception—an ideal opportunity to connect with industry peers, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships.

Stay tuned for the full agenda and speaker details. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and prepare for an impactful Legislative Day on the Hill. Mark your calendar and register today!

Registration:

• Sales Summit Only: $50/ Members or $75 /Non-Members
• Legislative Day Only: $75
• Both Events - $125/Members or $150/Non-Members
  (No discount for combined registration)

Hotel Rate:
$279/night at Embassy Suites (book by March 4, 2025)

Embassy Suites
100 Capitol Mall
Sacramento, CA 95814

Join NAIFA-California for an engaging and informative lunch meeting at The Point Patio & Bistro in Fresno. Connect with fellow industry professionals while gaining valuable insights to support your career growth. This educational session is designed to inspire, inform, and equip you with tools to thrive in the insurance and financial services industry.

Don’t miss this opportunity to network, enjoy a great meal, and advance your professional development.

The Point Patio Bar & Bistro
2940 E Nees Ave #107
Fresno, CA 93720

Get ready to elevate your strategies and solutions at NAIFA-California’s must-attend event for business owners and advanced planners! This year’s Business Owner Planning Summit brings you the top thought leaders and industry experts in San Diego for an action-packed day of insights, networking, and growth opportunities tailored for those supporting high-net-worth and business clients.

Join us at the Handlery Hotel in San Diego for inspiring keynotes, interactive workshops, and exhibitor showcases focusing on the most important issues in business planning today. Discover fresh insights and walk away with a toolkit of strategies for succession planning, life insurance for business owners, employee stock ownership plans, exit strategies, and more. You won’t just learn—you’ll connect with peers, enjoy a great lunch, and expand your professional circle.

Registration:
$99 for Members AND Non-Members
Includes lunch.

Seats are filling up fast, so secure your spot today!

Moderated by John Hansbrough and Rich Coffin

Special Guest, Kelly Smith, Sr., CLU, ChFC, one of the speakers at the NAIFA-California San Diego Business Owner Planning Summit

KELLY SMITH SR CLU ChFC, has worked in the insurance and financial services Industries for more than 40 years. He obtained undergraduate degrees in finance and marketing, with a secondary emphasis in accounting and economics. Kelly has consistently qualified as a life member of the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) for all of his 42-years of membership, including his rookie year. He holds a 17-year membership of the Court of the Table and an 11-year member of the Top of the Table.

Before this presentation, please read Kelly's article in the Cal Broker magazine. 

Read the article here

Location: Zoom

Member & Non-Member Fees: $5

Estate Planning changes are on the horizon. Get ready for any "last minute" planning opportunities as January 1, 2026 approaches.  Also, hear how our new upcoming administration may influence what we know today. 

This webinar is open to all NAIFA-CA members.

About the Speaker:
Andrew Rinn, AVP, Advanced Sales Strategy, Sammons Financial Group

As the Vice President of Advanced Strategies at Sammons Financial Group. Andrew leads a group of highly skilled and credentialed individuals. The team provides a single source of contact for advisors’ to successfully position their clients complex and challenging wealth management cases.

The team’s proficiency includes the full spectrum of advanced planning resources coupled with thought leader expertise in advanced business, estate and retirement planning. His own expertise includes wealth preservation, estate planning, business planning and executive benefits. He consults with insurance professionals and client’s tax advisors when appropriate to facilitate sales opportunities.

Andrew is a frequent speaker and has authored articles in Life Insurance Selling, Senior Market Advisor, National Underwriter, AALU (now Finseca) and Journal of Financial Service Professionals. His speaking experience includes Forum 400, Clinic for Advanced Professionals, AALU and LIMRA Advanced Sales Forum. He is an Associate Editor for the Journal of Financial Service Professionals.

Prior to joining Sammons, Andrew was the VP of Advanced Solutions & Design at Ameritas and previously held roles at MetLife, Principal Financial Group and Mutual of Omaha where he specialized in business and estate planning.

Andrew obtained his B.S. from Midland University and received honors as an Academic and Athletic All-American. He was inducted into the NAIA Athletic Hall of Fame in May of 2007.

He obtained his Juris Doctorate(JD) from Drake University Law School in Des Moines, Iowa where he was a member of the Dean’s List. After passing the Iowa Bar exam, Andrew served as an Assistant County Attorney and Iowa Assistant Attorney General before beginning his career in Advanced Markets. He has also served as the Chapter President of the Des Moines Society of Financial Service Professionals and on the National Board for the Society of Financial Service Professionals.

Professional Designations & Licenses: JD, CFP®, CLU, ChFC, Series 6, 7, 66, 26 & 63.

As a specialist in personal risk management, our guest speaker, Mike Sukle, CAPI, will lead a discussion on the current marketplace for personal insurance in California. He will share his insights on the market trends for homeowners and auto insurance in California and how insurance carriers/ providers are positioned for 2025.

Michael Sukle, CAPI, is Vice President within the Private Client Group of NFP, an AON company. This group is one of the largest insurance brokerage and consulting firms, offering commercial insurance, corporate benefits and private client resources. Michael’s focus is to introduce personal risk management to affluent individuals and families by providing property and casualty solutions to address their specific exposures to optimize wealth preservation while reducing risk. He has dedicated more than 25 years to the Finance and Insurance industry with a focus in private client, commercial and reinsurance related risk management disciplines. Michael is a native of San Francisco and received his bachelors of science in economics from the University of San Francisco. He holds the Certified Advisor of Personal Insurance (CAPI) designation received in conjunction with Wharton/Chubb which focuses on global risk management disciplines for the High and Ultra High Net worth individual and families.

Questions: www.naifasiliconvalley.org | janetnaifasiliconvalley@yahoo.com | 213-359-0389