From Orlando’s FPA NextGen Gathering 2025, CFP® professionals Deshawn Peterson, Alison Miller, and Mike Zarrelli capture the stories, lessons, and energy of this year’s event.

This milestone year marks the 25th anniversary of FPA, and the energy at Gathering has never been stronger. In this special episode of The Blueprint: An FPA NextGen Podcast, we bring you conversations with attendees ranging from first-timers to industry veterans who’ve built multi-decade careers.

From stories of career changers breaking into financial planning, to seasoned leaders reflecting on mentorship and succession, this episode captures what makes Gathering unique: community, connection, and the in-between conversations that spark lifelong friendships and professional growth.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• ???? Why “making the handshakes” is the unofficial theme of Gathering 2025.
• ???? Stories from new professionals finding their footing in financial planning.
• ???? Insights from a 38-year industry veteran on mentorship, retention, and legacy.
• ???? How career changers bring valuable skills from sales, engineering, and beyond.
• ⚡ The energy of first-time attendees and the motivation veterans bring back year after year.

Whether you’re a student, early-career advisor, or established CFP® professional, this episode is packed with inspiration and real stories that remind us why Gathering is the heartbeat of the NexGen community.

Episode Highlights:

• Connection and community: why the conversations between sessions often matter most.
• Building resilience: one advisor’s 20-year journey to finally earning the CFP® marks.
• Fresh energy: how students and new grads are shaping the profession’s future.
• Legacy and leadership: passing the torch through mentorship and firm culture.

Resources & Links:

???? Learn more about FPA NexGen: https://www.financialplanningassociation.org/networking/fpa-nexgen

???? Stay connected on the FPA NexGen LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fpa-nexgen/