Episode 1

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Published on:

5th Sep 2023

NAPFA’s DEI Initiatives with Nikki Palluzzi

Welcome to the first episode of the Diversity in Action™ podcast Season 2!

We're thrilled to introduce our new co-host Shawn Tydlaska, CFP®, MBA, the CEO and founder of Ballast Point Financial Planning and co-founder of the BLX Internship Program. 

In today's episode, we have Nikki Palluzzi as our guest. With over 15 years of community-building expertise, Nikki is an association executive who has worked in technology, different user groups, and professional societies. Previously serving as the Senior Director of Member Services and Experience at NAPFA, Nikki will discuss NAPFA's role in representing fee-only financial advisors in the US. NAPFA promotes high standards of competency, ethics, and professionalism while providing client-centered financial planning and investment advice. She shares how they actively work on DEI initiatives and has released a toolkit version 2.0 to assist members in implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies.

This episode will provide valuable insights into the financial planning profession, highlighting the importance of DEI and offering practical resources for creating a more inclusive industry. Expand your understanding in financial planning by tuning in to this episode. 

Episode Highlights:

>> About Nikki’s career path and how she got to where she is today

>> About NAPFA and her role within NAPFA

>> The DEI initiatives and toolkit version 2.0

>> The NAPFA DEI certificate program

>> Unique initiatives implemented by firms to promote inclusivity within the profession

>> About NAPFA Genesis and NAPFA’s Women’s Initiative

>> Volunteer opportunities for someone who wants to help people with being a speaker and get involved with the conferences themselves

>> What does diversity mean to Nikki and why is it important for her

>> How would Nikki define success for their profession in regards to progress with DEI if you are looking out over the next 3 years

>> The NAPFA Nation podcast

>> Nikki’s favorite personal finance tip 

Episode Sponsor:

This episode is brought to you by NAPFA. Since 1983, NAPFA has provided fee only financial planners across the country with some of the highest standards possible for professional competency, comprehensive financial planning and fee only compensation. With more than 4400 members across the country, NAPFA is the leading professional association in the United States dedicated to the advancement of fee only financial planning. For more information, visit napfa.org



Connect with Nikki:

>> Website: www.napfa.org

>> LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-palluzzi-cae


Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

>> NAPFA Nation Podcast

>> NAPFA DEI toolkit

>> NAPFA DEI certificate


Diversity in Action™ is all about showcasing real stories of individuals who are making an impact in the financial planning industry. You will learn how they got started in the industry, what DEI initiatives they are currently working on, and their passion for making the financial industry more diverse. 

It’s time to be inspired by those working to make a positive difference in the financial planning industry. It’s time to be part of this radical change! 

The Diversity in Action™ podcast is a hosted and created by the BLX Internship Program - a program for aspiring Black and Latinx financial planners. Visit our website to learn more at blxinternship.org

Show artwork for Diversity in Action™

About the Podcast

Diversity in Action™
If you are passionate about seeing real change in the financial planning industry, this podcast is for you.
Diversity in Action™ is all about showcasing real stories of individuals who are making an impact in the financial planning industry. You will learn how they got started in the industry, how they built their foundation, where they are headed in their careers, and their passion for making the financial industry more diverse.

It’s time to be inspired by those working to make a positive difference in the financial planning industry. It’s time to be part of this radical change!

Diversity in Action™ is a project of BLX Internship - a program for aspiring Black and Latinx financial planners. Visit our website at blxinternship.org