$230M advisor Ivy Pierson leaves broker-dealer channel to launch independent firm with RFG

$230M advisor Ivy Pierson leaves broker-dealer channel to launch independent firm with RFG
Breakaway move underscores rising demand for control, ownership, and scalable advisory models.
APR 07, 2026

Advisor Ivy Pierson has exited the traditional broker-dealer structure to establish Pierson Wealth Management in partnership with RFG Advisory, bringing more than $230 million in client assets into the independent space.

RFG says the Santa Clarita, California, launch reflects a broader industry shift away from legacy models toward structures that better align ownership with growth and client outcomes.

“Too many advisors spend years building businesses where they don’t actually own the outcome,” said Shannon Spotswood, CEO of RFG Advisory. “Ivy made a different decision. She’s building something she controls, where the client experience and the future of the business are aligned. That’s exactly the type of Advisor RFG is built for.”

Pierson’s new firm will follow a planning-centric approach, emphasizing customization and flexibility while positioning the business to adapt as client needs evolve.

“I wanted the freedom to build a business that reflects my values and allows me to truly tailor the experience for each client,” said Pierson, founder of Pierson Wealth Management. “RFG stood out because it offers the right combination of independence, technology and support. I can maintain ownership of my business while gaining the infrastructure and partnership needed to grow.”

Pierson’s firm rebranded from the Householder Group in 2021 and was previously affiliated with Cetera Advisors.

A key factor in the transition was RFG’s ability to streamline operations and reduce administrative burdens, allowing Pierson to focus more on client engagement and strategic growth initiatives.

Through the partnership, the firm will utilize RFG’s integrated technology platform, including its ClickONE system, which consolidates data, workflows, and analytics into a single interface designed to improve efficiency and decision-making.

The shift is expected to free up time previously spent on operational tasks, enabling deeper client relationships and more proactive financial planning.

“We’re seeing more Advisors make this move because they want control over how they build and grow their business,” said Ed Swenson, president of RFG Advisory. “Ivy’s launch reflects a broader shift toward models that prioritize ownership, flexibility and long-term enterprise value, and that’s exactly where RFG is focused.”

The addition of Pierson Wealth Management adds to RFG’s recent recruiting momentum as independence continues to attract advisors looking to scale on their own terms.

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