Tag: Succession Planning
How a CFO Built a Career Around Life, Not Just Work with Amy Tessmer (Ep. 9)

How a CFO Built a Career Around Life, Not Just Work with Amy Tessmer (Ep. 9)

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What does it mean to lead with both confidence and compassion, especially in a numbers-first industry? 

In this episode of Living Beyond the Numbers, Jude Boudreaux and Caleb Arringdale sit down with Amy Tessmer, CFO of The Planning Center, to explore how values-driven leadership, intentional balance, and quiet influence are reshaping the financial services landscape. Amy opens up about walking away from the CPA track, why she embraced a flexible schedule even in an executive role, and how financial decision-making becomes more powerful when it’s grounded in personal purpose. She also discusses how women in leadership can become visible examples for others, even when they’re not trying to be.

What you can expect from this episode:

  • What CFOs really do (and why it’s not just about spreadsheets)
  • Why Amy rejected the traditional partnership track in accounting
  • How flexible schedules can unlock high-performance leadership
  • Practical advice for professionals seeking more alignment in their work
  • And more!

Connect with Jude Boudreaux CFP®: 

Connect with Caleb Arringdale:

Connect with Amy Tessmer:

About our Guest: 

Amy Tessmer is involved in overseeing the accounting function, reviewing financial information, and planning and forecasting. Prior to joining The Planning Center, she spent more than a decade working for CPA firms as a financial statement auditor. Amy loves her role because she gets the opportunity to support the operations of the company so it can continue to grow and impact the lives of more families and individuals across the country.

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From Music to Money: The Unique Culture at The Planning Center (Ep. 3)

From Music to Money: The Unique Culture at The Planning Center (Ep. 3)

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What makes financial planning akin to crafting a symphony? How do emotions and logic dance in sync when managing investments?

Join Jude Boudreaux, CFP®, and the ever-enthusiastic Caleb Arringdale, EA, as they welcome Matt Knoll, CFP®, a seasoned financial planner and musician, to the “Living Beyond the Numbers” podcast. Matt, who holds a vital role in the Planning Center’s investment committee, shares insights into weaving a balanced financial strategy that harmonizes with life’s melodies. Drawing from years of experience, including mentorship under influential leaders, Matt discusses the essence of investment philosophy, the art of rebalancing portfolios, and the emotional aspects of investing.

Key discussed topics include:

  • The intersection between music and financial team dynamics
  • Crafting an unselfish succession plan
  • Understanding portfolio rebalancing and emotional investment triggers 
  • Navigating market volatility and long-term Investment planning 
  • How taxes and investments can dance together 

Connect with Jude Boudreaux CFP®: 

Connect with Caleb Arringdale:

Connect Matt Knoll:

About Matt Knoll: 

Matt Knoll is a seasoned financial planner and musician who brings a unique blend of expertise, empathy, and creativity to his work. As a Senior Financial Planner at The Planning Center, Matt plays a key role in helping clients align their financial decisions with their personal values. With over a decade of experience, he specializes in comprehensive financial planning, investment strategy, and guiding clients through major life transitions. He also leads the firm’s investment committee and supports the trade-desk operations, ensuring strategic consistency across client portfolios.

Matt began his journey at The Planning Center as an intern before joining full-time in 2013. He holds the Certified Financial Planner™ designation and is registered to provide advisory services in Illinois, Iowa, and Texas. Known for his calm presence and thoughtful approach, Matt has a gift for making complex topics feel clear and manageable.

Outside of his financial work, Matt is a passionate musician and host of The Frontline Podcast for Christian Men, where he supports men in pursuing growth and purpose. Whether in the office or behind a microphone, Matt is committed to helping people live more intentionally—financially, spiritually, and relationally.

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