What happens in the wide gray space between financial therapy and life planning? In this rich, unscripted conversation, Rick explores that question with a next-generation leader who brings both heart and rigor to the future of financial planning. Together, they unpack the difference between “snorkeling” and “scuba diving” with clients, why deep listening and long pauses can be more transformative than advice, and how practitioners can responsibly navigate emotional territory without overstepping their role. Along the way, they touch on the power of George Kinder’s Three Questions, the limits of traditional CFP training, the growing influence of Internal Family Systems, and why doing your own inner work may be the most important professional development of all. It’s a candid look at where the profession is headed—and what it takes to truly put humans first.
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The Gray Space Between Life Planning and Therapy with Lillian Turner
About Lillian Turner:
After growing up in the Midwest, Lillian Turner moved to Scottsdale, Arizona—sight unseen—following her graduation from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, where she earned a B.B.A. in Finance. She entered the wealth management industry in 2017 and quickly discovered her passion for financial planning.
While building her career, Lillian realized that effective financial guidance extends beyond technical strategies. After earning her CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) designation, she began exploring the deeper behavioral and emotional aspects of money through Financial Therapy and Financial Life Planning. She also developed a strong interest in helping individuals navigate the complexities of student loan debt, becoming a Certified Student Loan Professional (CSLP®) in 2022.
Most recently, Lillian expanded her expertise by completing a certificate in Financial Life Planning at Golden Gate University and earning her Registered Life Planner (RLP®) designation.
In addition to her professional work, Lillian is passionate about giving back to her community. She serves as Vice President of the Phoenix Children’s Hospital Emerging Leaders Board, volunteers as a Wish Grantor with Make-A-Wish Arizona, and is President-Elect of the National NexGen Board of the Financial Planning Association.
Outside of her professional and volunteer commitments, Lillian is an avid reader with a strong sense of adventure. She enjoys traveling every few months—whether attending conferences or exploring new destinations. She is also a devoted dog lover (especially French Bulldogs), a fan of energy drinks from Dutch Bros, and someone who believes in living life on her own terms.
About Rick Kahler:
Rick Kahler, MSFP, CFP® , CFT™, CeFT® , Certified Internal Financial Systems™ Financial Therapy Practitioner, president of Kahler Financial Group, is a lifelong resident of Rapid City, SD. He began his professional career in 1973 selling and appraising real estate He founded Kahler Financial Group in 1981. He became the first fee-only Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP ® ) in South Dakota in 1983. In 2020 he became one of the first Certified Financial Therapist (CFT™,) in the nation.
His firm, specializes in the integration of investment advising, financial planning, financial coaching, and financial therapy, serving small business and real estate owners, professionals, and retirees, as well as individuals and families.
He served on and chaired the South Dakota Investment Council and served in leadership capacities with the Financial Planning Association and the National Association of Financial Planning Advisors. Kahler is also a nationally renowned speaker and educator. In 2003, National American University recognized Mr. Kahler with the Alumni Distinguished Service Award.
Interested in working with Rick Kahler, MSFP, CFP®, CFT™, CeFT®, Certified Internal Financial Systems™ Financial Therapy Practitioner? Please go to our website, Book a Financial Therapist Appointment and fill out a request for a 30-minute free consultation.
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A podcast that blends the nuts and bolts of financial advice with the emotions that drive making them.
