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Owen Edwards, Certified Financial Fiduciary®, believes the technology should be viewed not as a replacement for human advisors

NORTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA – September, 2026 
As artificial intelligence continues to transform the way people research information, communicate, work and make decisions, financial advisor Owen Edwards, Certified Financial Fiduciary®, believes the technology should be viewed not as a replacement for human advisors, but as a powerful tool that can enhance the client-advisor relationship. 
Edwards, of Royal Fund Management, LLC, is addressing the growing role of artificial intelligence in financial planning and investment decision-making through his perspective on “Financial Advisor vs. AI.” His message is straightforward: The future of financial advice should not be about choosing between an advisor and artificial intelligence—it should be about using both.  
Owen said, “I feel this topic is so important because there’s a difference between having information and truly understanding someone. AI is an incredible tool, but I believe great financial advice requires both intelligence and understanding.” 
Edwards openly acknowledges that he uses AI in both his personal and professional life. The technology can save time, organize information, assist with research, verify calculations and even help identify questions that might otherwise go overlooked. 
But, he says, AI remains a tool—and information alone does not equal sound financial advice. 
“AI can give you an answer. That doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right answer for you,” Edwards said. 
For Edwards, the distinction becomes particularly important when financial decisions involve major life transitions. Someone approaching retirement after decades of work may not simply be asking whether their savings are sufficient. They may be asking whether they can live comfortably without the fear of running out of money. 
A widow who suddenly becomes responsible for financial decisions previously handled by a spouse may need more than information. And a couple who has spent decades sacrificing to build their financial future may need more than a calculation—they may need the reassurance and confidence that comes from working with someone who understands their circumstances. 
“These aren’t just financial questions. They’re human questions,” Edwards said. 
While AI can process vast amounts of information in seconds, Edwards believes that understanding a client’s financial goals, concerns and personal circumstances requires something technology cannot fully replicate: human connection. 
People want to be seen, heard and understood. That requires asking thoughtful questions, listening carefully to the answers and recognizing when the concern behind a financial question may be different from the question itself. 
For Edwards, that is where the human advisor continues to play an essential role. 
Rather than viewing artificial intelligence as a competitor, Edwards believes financial professionals should embrace the technology and incorporate it responsibly into their practices. 
“It isn’t Advisor versus AI. It’s Advisor plus AI,” Edwards said. “A knowledgeable, experienced advisor should use every good tool available. But technology should enhance the relationship—not replace it.” 
Edwards also acknowledges the irony that AI itself helped shape the message behind his press release. He notes that while AI assisted with organization, editing and efficiency, the underlying perspective and experience remain his own. 
As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into everyday life, Edwards encourages consumers and financial professionals alike to embrace the technology while remembering the importance of human judgment. 
“Use it. Learn from it,” Edwards said. “But every once in a while, remember what the ‘A’ stands for in AI.” 
 
About Owen Edwards 
Owen Edwards, Certified Financial Fiduciary®, serves select clients throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania and nationwide. In his 30th year, Edwards is known for his educational, client-first approach and his dedication to helping clients gain clarity and confidence to make informed financial decisions. 
Learn more: http://OwenEdwardsInvestments.com/
Owen Edwards is an Investment Adviser Representative of and investment services offered through Royal Fund Management, LLC, an SEC Registered Adviser. 401(k) Maneuver is another business name for Royal Fund Management, LLC. 

Rob Rickard VP Sr. Advisor Development Consultant w/Simplicity InsurMark on Influential Entrepreneurs Podcast Discussing How Scale Practice Without Losing Your Sanity

HOUSTON, TX – September 16, 2026  
Rob Rickard discussing how to scale your practice without losing your sanity 
Listen to the interview on the Business Innovators Radio Network: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/interview-with-rob-rickard-vp-senior-advisor-development-consultant-with-simplicity-insurmark-discussing-how-to-scale-your-practice-without-losing-your-sanity/
In today’s competitive business landscape, particularly within the financial services industry, the concept of niche specialization has emerged as a powerful strategy for practice growth. As discussed in a recent episode of the podcast “Influential Entrepreneurs,” hosted by Mike Saunders and featuring Rob Rickard, the Vice President and Senior Advisor Development Consultant at Simplicity InsurMark, the importance of narrowing one’s focus to a specific market segment is essential for scaling a practice without succumbing to the overwhelming pressures of increased workload. 
The Dilemma of Growth vs. Scaling 
Many financial advisors and business owners grapple with the challenge of growth. The traditional approach to expanding a practice often involves increasing the number of clients and, consequently, the workload. This method frequently leads to a scenario in which advisors find themselves working longer hours to manage the growing demands of their business, ultimately sacrificing their quality of life. As Rickard points out, while growth typically involves adding more clients and increasing production, it often results in a heavier burden—akin to adding more bricks to a wheelbarrow. In contrast, scaling a practice allows for growth without the equivalent increase in stress and workload. 
The Power of Niche Specialization 
Niche specialization is a strategic approach that enables professionals to focus on a particular segment of the market, thus positioning themselves as experts in that area. By concentrating their efforts on a defined audience, advisors can tailor their services to meet the unique needs of their clients, thereby enhancing their value proposition. Rickard illustrates this concept through the analogy of a barber, who can only serve a limited number of clients based on their available appointments. To increase revenue without increasing stress, the barber might hire another skilled barber, thereby expanding capacity while maintaining quality. 
The podcast provides compelling examples of successful niche specialization within the financial services sector. One advisor, previously an airline pilot, concentrated on serving fellow airline pilots from a specific airline, allowing him to develop a deep understanding of their unique financial needs. Similarly, female advisors have found success by focusing exclusively on women and money, further segmenting their market to address the distinct financial challenges faced by married women, single women, divorced women, and those who are the primary earners in their households. This targeted approach not only enhances the advisor’s credibility but also fosters stronger relationships with clients who feel understood and valued. 
Benefits of Niche Specialization 

Enhanced Expertise: By specializing in a particular niche, advisors can deepen their knowledge and skills, becoming true experts in their field. This expertise allows them to provide more tailored and effective solutions to their clients, which can lead to increased client satisfaction and loyalty. 
Reduced Competition: A well-defined niche often means less competition. When advisors position themselves as specialists, they can differentiate their services from generalists, making it easier to attract clients who are seeking specific expertise. 
Increased Referrals: Satisfied clients are more likely to refer others within their niche to the advisor. This referral network can significantly boost business growth, as clients trust recommendations from their peers who share similar experiences and needs. 
Streamlined Marketing Efforts: Niche specialization allows advisors to tailor their marketing strategies to a specific audience. This focused approach can lead to more effective marketing campaigns, as messages can be crafted to resonate with the unique challenges and aspirations of the target demographic. 
Work-Life Balance: By concentrating on a specific niche, advisors can streamline their operations and reduce the number of clients they need to serve to achieve their income goals. This can lead to a more manageable workload, allowing for a better balance between work and personal life. 

Conclusion 
In conclusion, niche specialization is a vital strategy for financial advisors and business owners seeking to scale their practices without sacrificing their well-being. By narrowing their focus and becoming experts in a specific market segment, advisors can enhance their value, reduce competition, and ultimately achieve sustainable growth. As highlighted in the podcast discussion, the journey towards scaling a practice is not merely about increasing the number of clients but about finding ways to work smarter, not harder. Embracing niche specialization is a key step in that journey, paving the way for a more fulfilling and successful practice. 
 
Rob shared: “Scaling is a process of adding the bricks to the wheelbarrow, but in essence, without creating the weight of that new brick load to take you away.” 
Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/embed/e7qc3-uz0Hk
About Rob Rickard 
Rob have over four decades in sales and marketing within the securities, real estate and insurance industries. As a senior executive with a Fortune 500 company, managing partner of his own investment firm, past school board president and member of multiple boards, his track record and affiliations demonstrate a high level of professionalism, as well as providing advisors with unique viewpoints to every situation that might arise in the growth of your practice. 
His years in senior management with a national independent marketing organization gives Robe firsthand knowledge of the obstacles a producer encounters, as well as the steps to take in moving beyond them. His dedication to service is what sets him apart from other marketers. Accessibility, enthusiasm, and personalized service are my trademarks. In 2018, a hand-picked group of advisors were chosen to develop Advisor Mentorship Program (AMP) to link themselves to a network of successful advisors across the country and share best practices. This program helped our advisors double their production collectively as a group. In 2019, this same group of advisors grew their business an additional 25%., 2020, up 23%, 2021 up 24% and 2022 up 34%. 
(source: Robert Rickard – Advisor Mentorship Program)
 If you are an independent advisor establishing a practice based on integrity, leadership, and growth, then a relationship with Simplicity InsurMark and his team should be on your immediate “to do” list. They are dedicated to you, the independent advisor, and everything they do is committed to making sure you have the resources and support necessary to provide the very best solutions to their clients, and their practice. Are you ready to catapult the business to the next level—and beyond? Then they invite to meet their team and customize a growth plan suited especially to you. At Simplicity InsurMark, it’s about people, it’s about relationships and it’s about the long-term. Give them a call, let’s learn more about each other and see if there. 
Learn more: http://insurmark.net/ 
‘For financial professional use only.’   5859561-0828c 
Recent News & Interviews:

Rob Rickard discussed Is It Time to Outgrow Your IMO? https://authoritypresswire.com/rob-rickard-vp-senior-advisor-development-consultant-with-simplicity-insurmark-interviewed-on-influential-entrepreneurs-podcast-discussing-is-it-time-to-outgrow-your-imo/
Rob Rickard discussed How to Harness the Power of Largest IMO https://authoritypresswire.com/rob-rickard-vp-senior-advisor-development-consultant-w-simplicity-insurmark-interviewed-on-podcast-discussing-how-to-harness-the-power-of-largest-imo/

VAIR and DreamTrips Partner to Build a Global Pickleball Travel Community

VAIR and DreamTrips have partnered to create a global pickleball travel community combining premium destinations, daily professional instruction, VAIR-certified coaching, and player development tools. Pickleball DreamTrip travelers receive a complimentary year of VAIR+, including AI video analysis, match predictions, opponent scouting, gear discounts, and more. Trips begin in late 2026, with destinations planned worldwide.

Shelby Green Retirement Expert with Retirement Heroes Interviewed on the Influential Entrepreneurs Podcast Discussing Achieving Financial Clarity and Peace of Mind

ATLANTA, GA – August 25, 2026
Shelby Green discussing achieving financial clarity and peace of mind
Listen to the interview on the Business Innovators Radio Network: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/interview-with-shelby-green-retirement-expert-with-retirement-heroes-discussing-achieving-financial-clarity-and-peace-of-mind/
In this episode of Influential Entrepreneurs, had the pleasure of welcoming back Shelby Green, a retirement expert with Retirement Heroes. Delved into the crucial topic of achieving financial clarity and peace of mind in retirement.
Achieve Peace Through Financial Clarity
In an increasingly complex financial landscape, the pursuit of peace of mind through financial clarity has become a paramount concern for many individuals, particularly as they approach retirement. Financial clarity not only provides a roadmap for managing resources but also alleviates stress and fosters a sense of security. As highlighted in a recent episode of the podcast “Influential Entrepreneurs,” featuring retirement expert Shelby Green, achieving financial clarity is essential for attaining peace of mind, particularly in the context of retirement planning.
At the core of financial clarity lies the understanding of one’s financial situation. This includes knowing how much money is needed for retirement, when one plans to retire, and how to manage expenses effectively. Shelby Green emphasizes that peace of mind is synonymous with the absence of financial stress. Individuals often grapple with uncertainties such as inflation, market fluctuations, and health care costs—factors beyond their control. However by focusing on what can be controlled—such as investment strategies, risk management, and budgeting—individuals can create a solid foundation for their financial future.
One of the primary components of achieving financial clarity is setting clear retirement goals. Defining a target retirement age and establishing a desired monthly income are crucial steps in creating a financial plan. This clarity allows individuals to assess their current financial standing and make informed decisions about saving and investing. By knowing exactly what is needed to maintain a comfortable lifestyle during retirement, individuals can work towards that goal with purpose and confidence.
Moreover, regular review and adjustment of the financial plan are essential in maintaining clarity. As life circumstances change—be it through unexpected expenses, changes in income, or shifts in market conditions—individuals must be proactive in revisiting their financial strategies. Shelby Green suggests that checking in on one’s financial plan every six to twelve months can help ensure that individuals remain on track to meet their retirement goals. This ongoing assessment not only reinforces financial clarity but also minimizes stress by allowing individuals to adapt to changing circumstances.
The correlation between reduced financial stress and improved health is another critical aspect of financial clarity. Numerous studies have shown that individuals with lower stress levels tend to live longer, healthier lives. Financial stress can lead to anxiety, depression, and a host of physical health issues. By achieving financial clarity and reducing financial worries, individuals can enhance their overall well-being, leading to a more fulfilling retirement experience. This peace of mind allows retirees to focus on enjoying their lives, pursuing passions, and nurturing relationships, rather than being burdened by financial concerns.
However, it is important to acknowledge that achieving peace through financial clarity does not mean that individuals will not need to adapt to changing circumstances. In fact, as Shelby Green points out, living longer often necessitates having more money saved for retirement. This reality underscores the importance of having a robust financial plan that can withstand the tests of time and market volatility. A well-structured plan includes stress-testing scenarios to ensure that individuals can navigate potential challenges without compromising their quality of life.
In conclusion, achieving peace through financial clarity is a vital goal for individuals, especially as they approach retirement. By setting clear financial objectives, regularly reviewing and adjusting plans, and focusing on controllable factors, individuals can alleviate financial stress and foster a sense of security. The benefits of achieving financial clarity extend beyond mere numbers; they encompass improved health, stronger relationships, and a more fulfilling retirement experience. As we navigate the complexities of the financial world, the pursuit of clarity and peace of mind remains a worthy endeavor, leading to a more secure and enjoyable future.
Shelby shared: “Peace of mind really just means lack of stress, like the absence of stress. And when it comes to finance, specifically financial stress, not having to worry about what’s going on externally with things that you can’t control. I can’t control the rate of inflation. I cannot control the market. I can’t control really even how long I live. But what can I control? I can control where I have my money, how much risk I have. I can also control what exact buckets of money that I take from.”
 Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/embed/MXHHQaKhLH0
About Shelby Green
Retirement Heroes specializes in helping retirees and those nearing retirement secure their financial future with confidence. Whether it’s ensuring a reliable income stream, protecting assets, or planning for healthcare costs, we take a personalized approach to understanding what matters most to each client. Our mission is to provide the guidance and strategies needed so they can enjoy their golden years without financial stress.
Financial security in retirement isn’t just about numbers—it’s about peace of mind. I’m here to help retirees make informed decisions so they can enjoy life on their terms, without the fear of outliving their savings.
Learn More: https://retirementheroes.org/
Recent News & Interviews:

Shelby Green discussed Navigating Income Planning https://authoritypresswire.com/shelby-green-retirement-expert-with-retirement-heroes-interviewed-on-the-influential-entrepreneurs-podcast-discussing-navigating-income-planning/
Shelby Green discussed Reducing Unnecessary Risk in Financial Planning https://authoritypresswire.com/interview-with-shelby-green-retirement-expert-with-retirement-heroes-discussing-reducing-unnecessary-risk-in-financial-planning/

VAIR Named Official Rating System of the NCPA

VAIR has been named the official rating system of the National Collegiate Pickleball Association. NCPA players will receive VAIR+ access, integrated performance statistics, improvement insights, and a pathway to becoming VAIRified. The partnership combines AI, match data, and certified human evaluation to give collegiate players a more accurate view of their on-court ability and long-term development.

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