A team of four Utah financial advisors who managed about $250 million in assets at Northwestern Mutual have jumped to LPL Financial to launch an independent practice called Happier Wealth.
In a press release today, LPL said Will Beck, Mike Macfarlane, Tyler Vongsawad, and Sam Rosen have joined the firm’s broker-dealer, RIA and custodial platforms in Pleasant Grove, Utah, where they provide comprehensive financial planning services, including investment management, tax planning, retirement planning and estate planning.
The team joins LPL with more than 70 years of collective experience in financial services and have personal relationships that go back many years. Macfarlane mentored Beck and Vongsawad as college interns, according to the release, and the advisors have remained close friends throughout their careers. LPL also noted that Beck is a survivor of the Columbine High School tragedy “who learned early on to appreciate the things that matter most” and the advisors are looking to build a “collaborative environment where they can live out their mission of helping clients live happier, more fulfilled lives.”
“At Happier Wealth, we believe that true wealth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about living a life that brings you joy, fulfillment and confidence,” said Beck in a statement. “The advice we provide isn’t just about making the most money, but about living the best life.”
Furthermore, the advisors said partnering with LPL will provide them “true independence” and a “comprehensive technology platform” that reduces administrative tasks. They also appreciate that LPL doesn’t offer proprietary investment products.
“The ability to open an account in less than 10 minutes is a game-changer for us,” Beck said. “We have so many ideas for how we can expand and grow, and we look forward to taking our practice to the next level.”