Undead Advice: Why Financial Service Needs a Wake Up Call (Ep. 2)

Most people assume financial advisors are always proactive, organized, and well coordinated, but the reality is far more human. 

In this episode, James Knapp and Gregg Sainsbury dig into why so many professionals fall into “zombie mode” without ever noticing it. They explore the habits, incentives, and gaps that quietly undermine planning while sharing the lessons Gregg learned early in his career from a mentor who believed service mattered more than products. The stories are real, relatable, and eye-opening for anyone who works with an advisor or is trying to be a better one.

What to expect:

• Real examples of planning oversights and why they happen
• How the industry’s incentives created generations of “zombie advisors”
• Why estate planning and beneficiary checks get ignored year after year
• A candid look at what true client-first service requires
• And so much more!

Connect with us!

• Boyum Wealth Architects
• LinkedIn: James Knapp, CFP®
• LinkedIn: Boyum Wealth Architects
• [email protected]
• Subscribe to the podcast here!

Connect with Gregg Sainsbury:

• LinkedIn: Gregg Sainsbury

About Our Guest:

Gregg Sainsbury, CFP®, joined Boyum Wealth Architects as Chief Operating Officer in May 2025. He oversees operational excellence across all departments, prioritizing exceptional client service and experience. With 29 years in wealth management, Gregg has held diverse roles, including investment manager, financial advisor, financial planner, trainer, director of central planning, and public speaker. He holds a BA in Economics from Gustavus Adolphus College and an MBA in Entrepreneurship from the University of St. Thomas. Gregg earned his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP®) designation in 2001.

In his free time, he enjoys family moments, learning, reading, and golf.