The Generosity Conversation

"Steve Lear not only writes about generosity, he lives it. And now he is generously showing how advisors should be exploring it in our client relationships. No time like the present for this meaningful work."

-Ross Levin, CFP, Founder of Accredited Investors Wealth Management, and winner of the FPA's 2023 P. Kemp Fain, Jr. Award

"I've had the privilege of working alongside Steve for the past seven years-he as a practitioner and me as an educator in financial planning. His leadership was instrumental in advancing Minnesota's landmark financial literacy requirement, ensuring every high school student graduates with essential financial knowledge.

Now, Steve is challenging our profession to aim higher. Through his work, he calls advisors to move beyond technical expertise and embrace a deeper sense of purpose-integrating generosity into every client conversation.

Having seen him teach and engage in meaningful dialogue with him on complex planning issues, I can confidently say his vision has the power to reshape how we serve clients, elevate the impact of financial advice, and improve the well-being of others!"

-Daniel Hiebert, PhD, CFP Director of Financial Planning at University of Minnesota, Mankato, Co-authored 2023 Montgomery - Warschauer Award from The Journal of Financial Planning and The Financial Planning Association (FPA) Best-selling author: Succession Simplified: A Primer on Transitioning your Family Business

"There is an old tale about Baron Rothschild- that when asked what he was worth - took out a ledger and gave a precise number down to the penny.

When asked how it was possible to know his exact worth - he said that the number represented the amount he had given away - that was his true Worth.

Steve Lear's new book shows how financial advisors can educate and assist their clients in understanding this - and help them use their wealth to enhance their life through generosity.

I have been a leader in the lay community for many years and am thankful to Steve for writing this important book. So many people I have met over the years who have amassed great fortunes never seem to be happy or content until they discover the benefits of sharing with others and improving the world."

-Skip Schrayer, CEO of Associated & Associated Private Client of Chicago, Illinois. He is the 51st recipient of the Rosenwald Award, which is awarded to a person who has demonstrated a lifetime of exemplary service to the Jewish community