The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Running your Own Practice

By Katie Burke / June 18, 2026 / Webinar

The dream of launching your own firm often centers on freedom and independence, but what does the day-to-day reality actually look like? Whether you are already at the helm of your own practice, weighing the risks of entrepreneurship, or deciding if the corporate path is your best fit, this raw and honest conversation is for you.

Take-aways from this session:

Model Comparison: Understand the structural differences, costs, and benefits of various affiliation models to see which aligns with your vision.
The “Pre-Flight” Checklist: Identify the critical tactical steps and technology needs you must address before you resign or launch.
Managing the Mental Load: Learn proven strategies for overcoming the psychological challenges of ownership, including managing risk-anxiety and building a “personal board of directors” to combat loneliness.
Coaching & Mentorship: Guidance on how to leverage external coaches and mentors to navigate a major transition or succession plan.
The “Stay or Go” Framework: A set of honest questions to help you determine if entrepreneurship is truly your preferred path or if your goals are better met within a larger firm structure.

Proposed Panel Composition

The Visionary Mentor: Judith McGee (sharing 47 years of perspective on entrepreneurship, longevity and evolution).
The Builder: Bridget (sharing the “boots on the ground” lessons of a successful launch).
The Next Gen Perspective: A newer advisor who recently started pr transitioned to independent (addressing today’s risks, hurdles, and benefits).
The Model Specialist: An advisor from a different affiliation structure (to contrast the RIA vs. platform experience) to share “hybrid” model.
Moderator: Women’s Alliance Leader (guiding the conversation and weaving in the value of community support).

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