What if the real ROI of technology isn’t efficiency, but time?

In this conversation, Chip Kispert sits down with Rich Whalen, VP of Technology Strategy and Execution at Equity Services, Inc., to unpack how the right technology strategy can give advisors something far more valuable than speed: space to focus on clients. From his early days as an advisor to leading technology strategy at Equity Services, Rich shares how a single shift in workflow changed everything, and why most firms still get this wrong today.

You’ll hear how ESI approaches innovation differently, starting with data and process before tools, why advisor choice drives stronger adoption, and how AI should be approached with intention, not urgency. This episode is a grounded look at what actually works when building technology that supports real growth.

What to expect:

• Why “return on time” matters more than traditional ROI
• How better workflows can unlock 20+ hours per month
• The real reason most tech adoption fails in wealth management
• A practical framework for evaluating AI without risking trust
• And more!

Resources:

• Beacon Strategies, LLC Podcast

Connect with Chip Kispert

• Beacon Strategies, LLC
• LinkedIn: BeaconStrategies
• LinkedIn: Chip Kispert
• chipkispert@beaconstrategiesllc.com

Connect with Rich Whalen:

• LinkedIn: Rich Whalen
• LinkedIn: Equity Services Inc.
• Equity Services Inc.

About Our Guest:

Rich Whalen is the VP of Technology Strategy and Execution at Equity Services, Inc., where he leads platform development focused on improving advisor efficiency and client experience. With a background as a financial advisor, Rich brings a practical, user-first perspective to building technology that actually gets adopted and delivers meaningful impact.