The One Call Service Model, Why Clients Are Tired of Managing Their Advisors

In this episode of Zombie Advisor, James Knapp sits down with longtime colleague and strategic partner Charlie Metzig, Managing Partner at Boyum Barenscheer, to unpack why so many professionals unintentionally become “zombie advisors” and how a one-call service model can change the client experience entirely.

Charlie shares his journey from growing up above a family cheese factory in Wisconsin to becoming a CPA and business advisor working alongside financial planners, attorneys, and business owners. Together, James and Charlie walk through real client stories that highlight where traditional advisory models break down, especially when busy, successful clients are handed long to-do lists instead of real help.

The conversation digs into proactive coordination, timely data, and why bringing the full advisory team into the same room leads to better decisions. From tax planning and business growth to succession, estate considerations, and rapid regulatory change, this episode makes the case for collaboration over silos.

If you are an advisor looking to deliver better service or a business owner tired of managing disconnected professionals, this episode offers a clear look at what client-first planning can actually look like in practice.