Danika Waddell is the president and founder of Xena Financial Planning and a dynamic speaker on financial life planning. A Certified Financial Planner and Registered Life Planner, she integrates coaching and life planning with traditional financial planning to help individuals align their financial decisions with their values and well-being. Danika also challenges traditional financial planning models, guiding advisors to embrace a more holistic, life-centered approach to client relationships. Recognized as one of Investopedia’s Top 100 Advisors in 2022 and 2023, she is committed to redefining financial planning as a profession rooted in meaning, purpose, and human flourishing.
Speaking Fee Range: $3,000-$5,000
Varies based on location, format, and customization.
Most advisors know Kinder’s 3 Questions—and the importance of uncovering a client’s values, history, and motivations. But the real challenge begins after the initial discovery is done. Life Planning Beyond the 3 Questions equips financial professionals with practical tools and conversational frameworks for ongoing client understanding. As clients evolve, so must the questions we ask—and the way we ask them. This session shows advisors how to continue meaningful exploration throughout the relationship, avoid awkward or intrusive conversations, and create a structured process for lifelong discovery that deepens trust and strengthens planning outcomes.
Mind Over Money reveals why even high-achieving clients struggle with financial decisions—and how advisors can make a measurable difference by understanding the psychology behind their behavior. This session introduces the core principles of financial psychology, including money scripts, emotional triggers, and the behavioral patterns that shape decision-making. Advisors will learn why logic alone rarely creates change and how to use targeted questions and simple, science-backed techniques to help clients gain clarity, confidence, and follow-through. Attendees leave with practical tools to reduce resistance, strengthen relationships, and drive more effective long-term financial outcomes.
Even if you’re a solo advisor—and plan to stay that way—you can still drive meaningful change in our profession. In this session, firm owners and employees of small or boutique practices will learn practical steps to create a more inclusive culture, attract and retain talent from a wide range of backgrounds, and reach a broader community of prospective clients. Attendees will leave with concrete steps they can begin implementing right away to better serve both current and future clients.
“When Danika takes the stage, I find myself shifting forward. Leaning in. Like something important is about to happen. And it always does.”
“Danika is a phenomenal role model to financial professionals with her deep level of knowledge and experience in conducting a values-based, life-planning approach to financial planning. Her passion for evolving this profession in ways that will make a bigger impact in the lives of our clients radiates from her presentations.“
Amy Mullen
“When Danika takes the stage, I find myself shifting forward. Leaning in. Like something important is about to happen. And it always does.”
Amy Mullen
