Former Edelman Financial Engines exec goes independent with RFG Advisory

A wealth advisor whose decade in the industry has included roles at three big name firms has made the break for freedom and launched his own firm.

Patrick Strodtman, CFP, has spent the last five with Edelman Financial Engines as director, financial planning, and was previously a retirement plan advisor at Empower Retirement, and held several roles over three years at Fidelity Investments.

But 2025 is the year he has decided to take the independent route and launch Strodtman Wealth Management by partnering with RFG Advisory – an InvestmentNews Best Place to Work for Financial Advisors in 2024 - to leverage its technology stack and a team focused on innovation.

“Their extensive suite of back-office solutions provides the support I need to run my business effectively, allowing me to concentrate my efforts on creating customized plans that help clients achieve their financial goals,” Strodtman said.

Prior to entering the wealth advisory industry Strodtman worked in the energy sector with Tetra Technologies, initially as a well testing technician.

SWM is the fifth advisory firm in Texas to join RFG and expands its presence in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. RFG also recently announced the launch of two firms, in Colorado and New York.

“Patrick typifies the entrepreneurial spirit of advisors that we are committed to serving,” said Abby Salameh, who joined RFG Advisory as chief growth officer almost a year ago. “We are delighted he has chosen to partner with us in the launch of his business and look forward to supporting him and his clients.”

RFG recently refreshed its brand with a new website to better reflect its offering for advisors which includes support for marketing, recruitment, behavioral finance coaching, and a women’s program.

“This next phase is the embodiment of our relentless drive for innovation and an investment in the Advisors we serve,” said Shannon Spotswood, who was promoted to CEO at the firm in July 2024.

As well as adding independent advisor firms to its growing network, the hybrid RIA also expects to increase its back office team with president and CIO Rick Wedell among executives from wealth firms that plan to hire in 2025. In RFG’s case this builds on the 30-40 that joined the team in 2024.