After a decade of working for multiple Fortune 100 companies in the financial services industry, I decided to take my talents to South Beach. Okay, technically just south of Atlanta.
While guiding families and business owners through the intricate world of finance was gratifying, I recognized that the impact of my work shouldn't be confined to those who met certain investment minimums. I didn't want to be limited by the products my firm offered, or worse, the act of selling itself. As I embarked on starting my own firm, I had a crystal-clear vision in mind: no more sales pitches, no more commissions, and no more corporate jargon. I aimed to sit on the same side of the table as my clients, providing them with the fiduciary standard I'd want for my own grandmother.
I was determined to end the era where my own cousins and fraternity brothers were deemed unfit clients simply because they didn't have a quarter of a million dollars to invest. I was weary of contributing to the cycle of the rich getting richer while others struggled to find their way.
For far too long, individuals who resemble me have been systematically denied access to the tools and resources necessary for building wealth. Although I believed I was fighting for the greater good, I realized I had unwittingly become part of the problem. So, now, I'm taking action to be the change I want to see.
I invite you to join me on this transformative journey.
Why Pursue So Many Designations? Battling Imposter Syndrome!
As a young Black man breaking into this industry, I felt the need to go above and beyond. To gain the trust of people twice or three times my age, I knew I had to prove myself. While many in my peer group were just trying to stay afloat, I embarked on the journey of acquiring my Series 6, 7, and 63 certifications. Upon discovering that my employer offered a reimbursement program, I wasted no time enrolling at The American College of Financial Services, diving in with unwavering determination.
Over the subsequent years, I earned my Retirement Income Certified Professional, Chartered Financial Consultant, and Wealth Management Certified Professional designations. Yet, one significant milestone still eluded me. Although few had heard of these designations, everyone recognized the CFP (Certified Financial Planner). The challenge? Less than 2% of Certified Financial Planner Professionals are Black, and the majority are over 50 years old. Facing stacked odds was nothing new to me.
When I informed my wife that I had passed, her response was, 'Of course you did! Congratulations! So, what's next?'
Brian resides 25 miles to the south of the vibrant Wakandan capital, in McDonough, GA. He shares this beautiful journey with his beautiful wife, Kristal, along with their amazing children – James, Kaden, and another bright soul named Brian, along with their faithful four-legged companion, Kobe.
But Brian's life is more than just the picturesque setting of McDonough; it's woven with a deep sense of community and service. He is an active member of esteemed organizations including the Association of African American Financial Advisors, the Million Dollar Round Table, and the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors, and the Sigma Rho Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Beyond his professional and community affiliations, Brian generously gives his time and expertise as a dedicated youth coach, serving the Henry County and i9 sports leagues and volunteers with the Timber Ridge and Union Grove PTOs.
In Brian's world, family, community, and service come together to create a rich tapestry of life in McDonough, GA
Absolutely not. Financial planning should be available to everyone. There are also discounts available for military (active, reserve or retired), first-responders (police, fire, medical) as well as teachers or those employed by non-profits. Additionally, anyone still experiencing an inability to pay may schedule time during pro bono office hours on Fridays (attach link).
A fiduciary is the highest threshold of ethical duty and obligation to represent the best interest of clients at all times.. As a fee-only, fiduciary advisor, we do not receive any commissions or compensation from anyone except for you. This structure helps to remove many of the conflicts of interests that exists in other models and our fees will always be transparent and clearly stated.
Yes. We work with clients across the United States.
Clients are free to end the services agreement at any time. We ask that you provide a written notice 30 days prior to termination.
Charles Schwab
Prosperitage Wealth is a Black-owned Registered Investment Adviser offering services in Georgia and in other jurisdictions where exempt from registration. Brian Keith Seymour, II ,a fee-only advisor and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, is the Principal and CEO of Prosperitage Wealth. Prosperitage Wealth offers comprehensive financial planning including investment planning, retirement planning, tax planning and estate planning.
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