Today we’d like to introduce you to Ryan Shannon
Hi Ryan, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I come from a long line of entrepreneurs—four generations, in fact—and grew up watching family members not only build their businesses but also go through the complex and often emotional process of transitioning out of them. Seeing how impactful a good financial advisor could be during those pivotal moments left a lasting impression on me. I initially went to Loyola University in New Orleans with plans to become a project manager, and I played college golf there as well, which taught me discipline and focus. However, a college internship with a local financial advisor shifted my path. I fell in love with financial planning because it allowed me to combine my project management skills with a personal mission to help business owners navigate the financial, business, and personal planning landscape. Today, I’m passionate about working with clients to make strategic decisions that positively affect not only their business but also their families and future generations.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Getting into the financial planning business certainly had its hurdles. Like many advisors starting out, the first couple of years were challenging as I worked to build up my client base from the ground up. On top of that, this is an ever-changing environment, with new laws, regulations, and financial trends emerging constantly. At times, it can feel like drinking from a fire hose, as there’s always more to learn and adapt to in order to serve clients effectively. But despite the tough moments, I’ve genuinely enjoyed the process because of the impact I can make. Knowing that my work helps clients—especially business owners—make decisions that benefit their families and futures keeps me motivated. Those early struggles and the ongoing need to stay agile have shaped my approach to planning and made each success with my clients feel even more meaningful.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Clear Picture Financial ?
Our firm specializes in taking the complexities of financial planning and making them simple and actionable for our clients. We’re particularly focused on working with business owners, helping them not only grow their businesses but also plan for the future with thoughtful exit strategies. My Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) designation allows me to provide specialized insights for business exit planning, making sure that business owners are well-prepared for one of the most significant transitions in their lives.
As an independent, fiduciary firm, we are uniquely positioned to act solely in our clients’ best interests, providing solutions that genuinely suit their needs and goals. What sets us apart is our team-based approach, where every client benefits from multiple advisors weighing in on their plan, bringing diverse expertise and ensuring no detail is overlooked. Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the trust we’ve built with our clients, who know we are fully committed to guiding them through complex financial decisions with clarity and care. For us, it’s about making a meaningful impact on each client’s life and financial well-being.
What are your plans for the future?
We’re excited to continue growing our business and expanding our reach to help even more clients make informed, impactful financial decisions. Our focus is on building relationships with individuals and business owners who are actively engaged in taking control of their financial futures. In addition, I’m merging my love for golf and finance through a YouTube series called Wealth and Wedges, where I discuss financial insights while on the golf course. This project allows me to connect with a broader audience in a unique, approachable way. Ultimately, our goal is to keep evolving so we can provide the best possible guidance and support to our clients, no matter what the future brings.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://clearpicturefinancial.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClearPictureFinancial?_rdr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@clearpicturefinancial662?feature=shared
