20 Aug Spotlight on Trista Brandt
Trista Brandt
Registered Client Service Associate
Stifel
Quick 10!
#1 Briefly tell us about your business.
I currently work at Stifel as a Registered Client Service Associate in Mankato, MN. I’m one of nine members of the Morgan + Wittenberg Group, where our financial advisors specialize in providing customized investment guidance tailored to our clients’ goals.
#2 What is the most rewarding part of being a financial advisor?
I’ve worked for Stifel for a little over two years now. I started as a branch intern throughout my last year in college and have now transitioned to a full-time position. The most rewarding part of this role is being part of a team that is educating and empowering individuals to take charge of their finances.
#3 What is the most challenging part?
One of the most challenging parts of my job is balancing the emotional side of client relationships with the technical demands of financial planning. Clients often come to us during major life transitions (retirement, loss, divorce), and it requires both empathy and precision for our team to guide them through those moments while keeping them focused on their long-term financial goals. Providing a high level of service by being attentive to their account-related needs and the details of implementing any resulting changes to their plan is a role I take seriously as part of helping make their transition easier for them.
#4 Knowing what you know now, what piece of career advice you’d give your younger self?
One piece of career advice I’d give my college self, and something I continue to work on, is not to live in intimidation. Being a woman in this industry isn’t something to fear; it’s an opportunity to lead, to inspire, and to make a meaningful impact.
#5. What is one idea to further move the needle in attracting, retaining and/or advancing more women in financial advising?
Mentorship – that is one reason I love what the WLA stands for. This can help provide guidance, confidence, and support, which is especially valuable in a field where women are underrepresented.
#6. What’s one of your superpowers that has nothing to do with wealth management?
Intuition – I have a strong ability to read between the lines, sense what’s not being said, and anticipate needs or concerns before they’re voiced.
#7 What’s one of your non-negotiable self-care practices?
Protecting my quiet time each morning is non-negotiable. Whether it’s 15 minutes of journaling, reading, or simply sitting with a cup of coffee, that time helps me ground myself before the day begins.
#8 Who is a woman who has had an important impact on your life or career?
Kim Jenson. She helped connect me with the firm I’ve been at for the last two years and is ultimately the reason I am where I am today in my career.
#9 What are three of your all-time favorite books?
1 – How to Win Friends and Influence People – Dale Carnegie
2 – Undiversified – Ellen Carr and Katrina Dudley
3 – Let Them Theory – Mel Robbins
#10 If your life were a movie, what would the title be?
‘Purposely Planted’