Building a successful business takes more than just hard work and strategy. It requires discipline, vision, and sometimes, a little faith. But above all, it’s about making decisions that align with your values and long-term goals. These are the themes Alex Dahlstrom and I dove into during a recent episode of my podcast.

Alex is a financial planner with Northwestern Mutual and the founder of the Pink Dolphin Foundation. Our conversation covers what it takes to build a business, the power of mentorship, and the importance of giving back.

Let me also share with you the key takeaways from that episode!

Building a Financial Planning Business from Scratch

Alex started his financial planning practice at 23. He didn’t have years of experience in the field, but he did have a strong foundation in discipline and a relentless drive to succeed.

Starting his own practice wasn’t easy, but Alex’s journey was guided by a few key principles: faith, discipline, and mentorship.

Importance of Having a Good Mentor

Tony Allen, a business partner and mentor, helped Alex push through the challenges of his first year. Tony’s belief in Alex, especially when Alex doubted himself, gave him the confidence to build a thriving business.

For Alex, mentorship isn’t just about getting advice. It’s about having someone who believes in you when you’re just starting. That belief can be a game-changer, especially when things get tough.

The Power of Faith in Business

What stood out most in our conversation was how much Alex’s faith influences his decisions, both personally and professionally.

He leaned on his spiritual discipline to guide his business decisions. His faith provides him with a moral compass, ensuring that his business practices reflect his beliefs.

Overcoming Challenges and the Entrepreneurial Mindset

One of the most defining moments in Alex’s career was realizing he wasn’t meant to work for someone else. During college, he worked a shuttle bus job and enjoyed serving guests, but he hated answering to a boss. That experience was a wake-up call, leading him to embrace entrepreneurship fully.

Challenges of Starting at a Young Age

Alex admitted that starting a business at 23 meant making tough decisions, including forgoing the safety of more traditional career paths, like law or banking. But Alex’s perseverance, combined with his strong relationships, helped him push through the hardships.

Rising Above Setbacks

For Alex, the key to overcoming obstacles is maintaining a positive mindset and staying persistent. He believes that success isn’t just about talent but about staying disciplined and learning from every setback. Keep your head down, continue to grind, and trust that the results will come!

Giving Back to the Community: The Pink Dolphin Foundation

Alex is deeply committed to giving back. He founded the Pink Dolphin Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization focused on acts of random kindness, Christian business education, and mental health support.

The foundation’s mission is close to Alex’s heart, especially as he’s witnessed firsthand the impact mental health struggles can have on individuals. He integrates charitable efforts into his business model, allowing his success to fund initiatives that support those in need.

Through the Pink Dolphin Foundation, Alex hopes to inspire others to think about how they can use their success to help others. He works tirelessly to create a ripple effect of positive change in the world.

Strong Client Relationships: A Key to a Successful Business

For Alex, financing is about more than numbers—it’s about relationships. He knows that the financial decisions people make today will affect their future, and he strives to build relationships that help his clients succeed in the long run.

Here are some key tips Alex shared for building trust and strong relationships with clients:

  • Be a good listener: Understand your client’s goals and challenges to provide sound advice.

  • Provide personalized advice: Tailor your advice to meet the unique needs of each client.

  • Communicate regularly: Keep clients updated on their financial progress and any changes to their plan.

  • Build trust over time: Trust is earned through consistent and honest communication.

Alex’s clients are people he cares about. His mission is to guide them through life’s financial journey and provide the support they need to achieve their goals.

Continuous Learning and Its Importance to Long-Term Success

As entrepreneurs, we can’t afford to stop learning. We can’t stress enough the importance of continuous self-improvement and staying on top of industry trends.

Whether it’s reading books, attending industry events, or listening to real estate podcasts, constant learning is essential for long-term success.

Want to hear my entire conversation with Alex? Listen to the podcast episode! 


Tune In to HomeBrew Podcast for More Insightful Conversations with Industry Leaders!

Alex’s journey is a reminder that building a successful business isn’t just about what you do—it’s about how you do it. His insights are invaluable for anyone looking to make a difference in their business and community.

If you found Alex’s story and tips inspiring, tune in to HomeBrew Podcast for more conversations with other successful entrepreneurs and industry leaders.

And, if you’re looking for expert guidance in buying or selling a home in South Carolina, contact us here at JW Martin Real Estate. We’re here to help you every step of the way!

Apply as a Guest on HomeBrew Podcast!

Are you a business leader in South Carolina with valuable insights to share? Apply to be a guest on HomeBrew Podcast and join me in discussing what’s brewing in the local business scene. We’d love to hear your story