Applied for a 2 1-hour courses: NC CIE, NC CPE, NC CFP, and NC CLE.
7:30 am Door Open
7:45 am Announcements
8:00 am Presentation- Tax Planning Tools in Investment Execution
9:00 am Presentation- Practical Strategies to Enhance Client Service and Strengthen Relationships
Tax Planning Tools in Investment Execution with Legendary Capital
Abstract- This course is designed to help financial and other professionals understand and apply key tax-deferral and tax mitigation strategies in real-world investment scenarios. Topics include Passive Income Generators – Passive Activity Loss (PIG-PAL), 1031 exchanges, 721 UPREITs, and Qualified Opportunity Zone investments, with a focus on how each can be used to enhance portfolio diversification, defer capital gains, and support estate planning goals. The course aims to provide insights that can improve client outcomes and add value to your practice.
Richard Hillson
Richard is a financial services entrepreneur and an expert in the field of alternative investments. Over the course of his career, he has helped many investment advisors grow their businesses, serving as a trusted advisor and gatekeeper to quality institutional product. Before founding Hillson Consulting, he co-founded Third Seven Capital, LLC a privately owned, boutique investment bank specializing in alternative investments and was also CEO of an RIA aggregator. Richard is a British national who began his career at Barclays Wealth and has since worked with a variety of companies as an investor, banker, strategic advisor, and board director. He studied law at the University of Nottingham. At Hillson
Consulting, Richard’s focus is to work with advisors to improve their offerings, particularly relating to alternative investments. This involves educating advisors and their clients on this misunderstood asset class and helping them navigate access to the best-of-breed offerings. Richard regularly writes discussion pieces for leading publications and presents on the subject of alternative investments for leading industry bodies. Richard lectures at the business school and ingenuity lab of the University of Nottingham.
Chad Whatley
Chad Whatley serves as the Managing Director, East for Legendary Capital. Chad has over two decades of experience working with financial advisors across the independent broker dealer and wire house channels. He specializes in helping advisors grow their practices through effective networking with influencers such as CPAs, real estate brokers and attorneys, and effectively positioning investment strategies with their clients. He holds Series 7 and 63 licenses.
Practical Strategies to Enhance Client Service and Strengthen Relationships with Gregg Schlaudecker and Leigh Ann Houston
Abstract- Exceptional client service doesn’t happen by chance—it’s the result of intentional strategies that streamline communication, build trust, and create lasting impressions. In this session, we’ll explore a series of practical, proven techniques you can immediately apply to elevate everyday interactions with clients and colleagues. From simplifying processes to improving responsiveness and fostering deeper connections, these strategies are designed to help you work smarter while delivering greater value. Attendees will leave with actionable takeaways to enhance client satisfaction, improve efficiency, and strengthen professional relationships.
Gregg Schlaudecker

Gregg Schlaudecker is a seasoned executive and financial services leader based in Jamestown, North Carolina. As Chief Operating Officer at AdaptFirst Tax and Investments, Gregg drives operational excellence and strategic direction for a mid-sized CPA firm. His career includes influential roles such as Executive Director for The Financial Service Advisors Council and Director at the Society of Financial Service Professionals, where he led regional chapters and advanced the profession through innovative leadership and collaboration.
Gregg’s expertise spans financial planning, risk management, and education—evidenced by his founding of Smart College Funding, helping families strategize college affordability. He has managed comprehensive financial planning operations and led large insurance sales departments, leveraging knowledge gained from diverse roles including military service as a U.S. Navy Captain. Known for his technology savvy and commitment to professional development, Gregg also enjoys cycling, bird watching, boating, and mentoring others in finance and technology both inside and outside the office.
Leigh Ann Houston
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Leigh Ann Houston is a seasoned leader with extensive experience in event planning, operations management, and community engagement. She has built a career on creating seamless, high-impact experiences that foster connection and professional growth. A proud alumna of the University of Iowa, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education, as well as a Master of Education from the University of North Florida. Alongside her current leadership role, Leigh Ann has founded and grown a wellness business, Thrive Tribe Essentials, managed successful real estate ventures, and dedicated much of her professional journey to education and mentoring.
A mother of four, Leigh Ann is equally dedicated to her family and community. She serves in leadership roles at her children’s school, runs a large parish Bible study, and is an active voice in volunteer and service initiatives. When not coordinating programs or fostering professional networks, she can almost always be found by the water, recharging at the beach with family and friends.