Registered Rep.: You're a golfer. Best golf course in the Omaha area?
Todd Feltz: Shadow Ridge Country Club.
RR: Ever let a client beat you?
TF: Plenty of times, but you have to be careful. I think clients would much rather see me as competitive and confident in my abilities as opposed to someone who is not.
RR: Proudest moment/achievement in your career?
TF: Small Business Owner of the Year award from the Chamber of Commerce in 2003. It was nice to be recognized by many of our community leaders and business owners.
RR: Best advice you ever got and from whom?
TF: My father always told me I need to be a good librarian versus trying to be a good library. No one can do it all, so having a network of associates who are willing to share their experience and insight is invaluable.
RR: Most unusual client encounter?
TF: I had a client who worked for the telephone company and was forced into early retirement at age 50 due to Pick's disease, an aggressive form of Alzheimer's. Advising his wife and family on a multitude of issues, ranging from financial to real estate, proved to be mentally taxing. It certainly reinforces our role as both emotional and financial advisors.
RR: Toughest part about building your own business?
TF: Making time to work on the business as well as in it. My job has changed from being a technician to an entrepreneur, which requires constant communication with my staff regarding the vision and goals of the firm.
RR: Interesting or bizarre fact about Omaha or Nebraska?
TF: There's more to Omaha than Warren Buffet. Home to eight Fortune 500 companies, host city to the College World Series, great concerts rivaling those of major metropolitan cities, outstanding restaurants and great people.
RR: If you could switch careers with one person?
TF: Phil Mickelson — although I'd play right-handed.
RR: Guiltiest indulgence?
TF: Cigars
RR: One word you hope clients use to describe you?
TF: Optimistic
