Today we’d like to introduce you to Tommy Modec
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I got my start in financial services the summer after my sophomore year of college as an intern at Northwestern Mutual. I spent several years there, first as a college financial rep and later as a full-time advisor. While I respected the firm and its products, I often felt more like a salesperson than an actual financial planner. My clients and I wanted real financial advice—not just insurance, mutual funds, and other financial products.
I briefly moved to another big firm, MassMutual, but quickly realized that if I wanted to serve clients the way I believed was best, I had to do it on my own terms. So, I launched Counterculture Wealth in April 2022—a fully independent Registered Investment Adviser built to put financial planning first. Nearly three years in, it’s been a fast, fun ride, and I’m excited to keep building a financial firm that actually puts people before products.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely not. Starting a Registered Investment Adviser (RIA) is a big responsibility—there are serious regulatory and compliance requirements, which is a good thing for clients. Going from a big firm, where everything is spoon-fed to you, to building something from scratch is a huge shift. But I’ve embraced the challenge and leaned into the freedom that comes with full control—there’s a lot of fun in that. And like any startup, finding clients is key. In my industry, that means earning trust to help people make major financial decisions and manage their life savings. Not exactly the easiest sell.
We’ve been impressed with Counterculture Wealth, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Counterculture Wealth, we’re flipping the script on traditional financial planning. We work with high-earning millennials who want expert financial guidance—without the sales pitch. No commissions, no product pushing—just real advice that actually helps you build wealth.
We specialize in financial plans that let you grow your money and enjoy life today. No guilt trips, no “skip the lattes” nonsense. Just clear, actionable advice tailored to your goals and lifestyle.
What sets us apart? We reject the outdated belief that financial freedom only comes after decades of grinding. You don’t need to be older or already wealthy to work with us. We help you make smart money moves now—so you can build wealth and enjoy life today.
Finance doesn’t have to be boring, complicated, or full of jargon. Counterculture Wealth is built on transparency, trust, and breaking the mold of traditional wealth management. If you’re ready to take control of your money—without the BS—we’re here for it.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
So many people have been part of my journey, and I’m sure I’ll miss a few. First, I have to give a shout-out to my mentors and close colleagues at Northwestern Mutual. While their model wasn’t the right fit for me in the long run, they gave me my start in the industry—and honestly, I’m not sure I’d be a financial advisor today without them. Big thanks to my mentor, Ben, our agency’s managing partner, BJ, and my close colleagues Jesse, Ashley, and Brian.
I’m also grateful for the financial advisors who’ve supported and encouraged me along the way—Jaron, Aikan, Will, Nick, and Curtis. And of course, a huge thank you to the hundreds of clients who’ve trusted me with their money. That’s a big responsibility, and I take it seriously.
Lastly, I can’t forget my family and my amazing girlfriend, Hannah (and our perfect golden retriever, Finn). Building a business is a wild ride, and they’ve been there through every high and low. I honestly couldn’t do this without them.
Pricing:
- We offer comprehensive financial plans tailored to your unique goals, starting at around $2,500. We’re always happy to negotiate where it makes sense!
- For clients seeking ongoing financial advice and investment management, I charge a subscription starting at $85 per month ($1,000 annually), plus 0.5% per year to manage your investments. There’s no minimum account size required. For context, most financial advisors charge at least 1% per year and often have account size minimums.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.counterculturewealth.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommymodec/
