Alanah Philips: The Catalyst Launching Advisors & Advising When to Break Up With Broker-Dealers

Amber Stitt
2 days ago
3 min read

Breaking Up with Your Broker-Dealer: How Alanah Philips Found Her Path to Empowerment and Fun

The world of financial services isn’t always known for its flexibility, creativity, or fun. But in a recent episode of “Pathways with Amber Stitt,” special guest Alanah Philips proved that you can build a thriving, empowering, and enjoyable career – and help others do the same. Their conversation at the NAIFA e3 conference in Newport Beach, California is a masterclass in entrepreneurship, reinvention, and unwavering authenticity.

From Intrapreneur to Entrepreneur: A Journey of Alignment

Alanah Philips did not jump into entrepreneurship overnight. Her early experiences inside a large organization were shaped by an “intrapreneurial” spirit—a term she uses to describe flexing creative muscles within the safety net of a corporate environment. Supported by insightful leaders, she honed her ability to innovate without taking on all the risk. But eventually, as company leadership’s values drifted from her own—particularly their commitment to putting advisors first—the misalignment became impossible to ignore.

Recognizing this, Alanah realized she was meant to build her own business: “I actually don’t think that I’m supposed to be an employee. I think that there is so much creative freedom in being a business owner and entrepreneur.” This clarity marked the beginning of her bold new path.

Building a Brand – Authentically

The leap into independence wasn’t just about setting up a new company. For Alanah Philips, it meant carrying forward the authentic “brand of Alanah” that she’d always polished. Her commitment? Honesty and transparency, always putting the needs of advisors above her own short-term gains. Whether telling a prospective client that another firm might be a better fit, or creating content that gave value freely, she earned a reputation for trustworthy guidance in a crowded industry.

As a content creator and networker—active in organizations like WIFS, NAIFA, and FPA—she was able to build a broad and loyal professional network. “It was so much easier when I did leave,” she reflects, “because I felt the strength and support of that network that I had built.”

Catalyst: More Than a Business Name

The birth of her flagship company, Catalyst, was anything but accidental. Alanah Philips credits both luck and persistent effort: “I do believe in luck… but I also did the work.” Together with partners like Iyana Harris and Lindsey Lewis, she created a business that acts as an agent for change—a “catalyst”—for advisors craving new opportunities and fresh starts.

Catalyst brings together her “Break Up With Your Broker-Dealer” brand (soon to be trademarked!) and the “Advisor Launch Lab,” which helps independent advisory teams recruit and train new talent. These offerings allow Alanah Philips and her partners to serve their core audience in innovative ways.

Lessons from Breakups – Professional and Personal

The themes of “breaking up” and “realignment” don’t just live between the covers of Alanah Philips’s book, “Break Up With Your Broker-Dealer.” Inspired by real-life experiences, the book is a blueprint not only for financial advisors, but for anyone facing a transition—whether in their career, business, or even relationships. As she points out, the same cues and feelings apply when we outgrow jobs, partners, or old identities.

“I hope the book does that for advisors,” she says, “but it sounds like there are some larger implications here, too.” It’s about knowing when the “juice isn’t worth the squeeze,” and having the courage to change course.

Money, Fun, and Time: A New Kind of Success

One of Alanah Philips’s guiding philosophies is simple: “Make more money, have more fun.” But behind the catchphrase is a deeper reflection on what wealth really means. For her, accumulating money is not about status, but about creating more time and freedom to pursue what truly matters—friends, travel, experiences, and ease.

In a poignant moment, she shares, “You can always make more money… but the time doesn’t come back.” This reminder echoes throughout the episode, tying together themes of legacy, personal identity, and living life on your own terms.

Empowerment Is the Real Takeaway

Alanah Philips’s journey is a testament to empowerment: knowing your values, taking calculated risks, building authentic relationships, and aligning your work with your purpose. Whether you’re a financial services professional, a creative, or just someone at a crossroads, her advice rings true: Be your own catalyst for change, and don’t forget to have fun along the way.

As “Pathways with Amber Stitt” continues to inspire listeners to find their unique paths, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a life and career of authenticity, impact, and joy.