07/18/2026
Summer Regional Meeting – Gratitude, Growth, and Fresh Perspective
This past weekend, our team attended the annual Region 129 Summer Regional Meeting in Oklahoma City. For me, it was one of the most enjoyable and relaxing regional meetings I've attended—and that's saying something.
Why? Because for the first time in eight years, I wasn't responsible for planning and hosting it.
I couldn't help but think back to the very first regional meeting I led. Our Managing Partner was speaking when lightning literally struck the hotel. It was an electrifying meeting in more ways than one! Looking back, I laugh about it now, but the stress of that season eventually caught up with me. About a month later, I found myself in the ER convinced I was having a heart attack. Thankfully, after testing and a procedure, I learned my arteries were "clean as a whistle." The diagnosis wasn't heart disease—it was stress.
That experience changed me.
It taught me valuable lessons about perspective, balance, and managing the things within my control. Over the years, I've learned healthier ways to handle pressure and become more intentional about caring for myself so I can best serve others.
This year's meeting, led by our new Regional Leader, Chris Carr, and his team, was outstanding. One of the most interesting discussions centered around how advisors are using Artificial Intelligence in their practices. The overwhelming takeaway was that AI isn't replacing the human side of what we do. Instead, it's helping automate administrative tasks, freeing up time for what matters most: our clients.
When technology gives us back hours in our day, we gain more opportunities to listen, ask thoughtful questions, coach families through important decisions, and develop plans that reflect what matters most to them. I came home with several new ideas from fellow advisors and was reminded that no matter how much experience we gain, there's always something new to learn.
Another highlight was being able to attend alongside my daughter, Abby, for the first time. Our team has also grown, and it was wonderful to have Associate Advisor Toby attend as well. Seeing the next generation engage, learn, and contribute made the experience even more meaningful.
Most of all, I left feeling grateful.
Grateful for the colleagues who generously share ideas. Grateful for the opportunity to continue learning and growing. Grateful for a firm that encourages us to work on our business, not just in it. And grateful for the trust our clients place in us every day.
Every year I return from Summer Regional with renewed energy and fresh ideas. While our team certainly benefits from that investment, the real beneficiaries are the clients and families we serve.
Growth is a lifelong journey, and I continue to be thankful for the people who help shape mine.
