Authenticity Deficit

In a world where trust is fleeting and relationships are increasingly transactional, financial advisors face a daunting challenge: how to stand out and truly connect in an era of skepticism. The Authenticity Deficit is more than a guide—it’s a rallying cry for professionals seeking relevance, trust, and lasting impact in their careers and client relationships.

Drawing on over two decades of experience as a senior executive in the finance industry, Michael E. Holden unpacks the hidden gap between what clients expect and what advisors deliver. With a blend of compelling storytelling, actionable strategies, and hard-earned insights, he reveals how authenticity—the ability to be genuine, transparent, and human—is the ultimate key to professional success.

This audiobook dives deep into:

• The growing authenticity deficit in the financial services industry and why it’s costing advisors more than they realize.

• Practical frameworks to rebuild trust and create deeper, more meaningful client relationships.

• Proven strategies to align your values, communication, and expertise for maximum relevance.

• Personal anecdotes and lessons learned from a career at the top of the corporate ladder—and why Michael took a bold leap of faith to rewrite his story.

Whether you’re a seasoned advisor or just starting out, The Authenticity Deficit equips you with the tools to differentiate yourself, inspire loyalty, and serve clients in ways that matter most. It’s not just a book about finance—it’s a transformative journey to becoming a trusted force of good and love in an often impersonal industry.

This audiobook is your blueprint for thriving in an industry hungry for realness. Listen today and start closing the authenticity gap!

1. Opening Credits
2. Advance Praise
3. Acknowledgments
4. Dedication
5. Foreword by Robert L. Finder, Jr.
6. Disclaimer
7. Introduction
8. Chapter 1: The Authenticity Deficit
9. Chapter 2: Situational Awareness
10. Chapter 3: Practitioner Autonomy
11. Chapter 4: The Nature of Compliance
12. Chapter 5: Do I Stay or Do I Go?
13. Chapter 6: Pain Points
14. Chapter 7: Professional Development
15. Chapter 8: The Future of Our Industry
16. Chapter 9: So, Where Does This LeaveYou?
17. Chapter 10: A Choice and an Opportunity
18. Reflect On Your Authenticity
19. About The Author
20. Closing Credits