The Art of Living Fully: David Adams on Wealth, Wisdom, and What Truly Matters

I recently had the honor of interviewing David Adams, who applies his registered and trademarked Retire While You Work® philosophy, along with his unique 3 Bucket Strategy, to help clients manage their wealth. A renowned Certified Public Accountant, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, and President of Adams Wealth Partners, LLC, he also hosts the Retire While You Work® Podcast on Apple, YouTube, and Spotify. In this exclusive interview for Social Lifestyle Magazine, I explore his financial philosophy, expertise, and personal insights.

Meghan Forte: You work with high-net-worth clients, business owners, and musicians. What unique challenges do these clients face when it comes to financial planning?

David Adams: Each group has its own complexities. For business owners, most of their wealth is tied up in their company, so planning revolves around liquidity, succession, and how to convert years of sweat equity into financial independence. Musicians and creatives often have uneven income streams—huge years followed by quiet ones—so building stability and long-term security is critical. High-net-worth families face different challenges: estate taxes, preserving wealth for multiple generations, and making sure the money enhances their family’s lives rather than creating entitlement. In all three cases, it’s about helping them design a plan that aligns money with their values.

Meghan Forte: Can you walk our readers through your process of helping someone through a major life transition like selling a business or going through a divorce?

David Adams: Transitions are emotional as much as they are financial. When someone sells a business, they’re not just cashing out—they’re closing a chapter of their identity. I start by listening: what does life look like after this event? Then we design a roadmap: how much liquidity to set aside, how to reinvest proceeds, tax strategies, and how to recreate the sense of purpose that business once provided. Divorce is equally complex—it’s about regaining clarity and stability in the middle of emotional upheaval. My role is part advisor, part counselor. The numbers matter, but so does creating confidence that they can rebuild and move forward.

Meghan Forte: Looking ahead, what’s next for you personally and professionally?

David Adams: Personally, I’m in a season of presence—leaning into travel, writing, and spending time with family and my labrador retriever, Jolene. My dog also has a role as the “director of stress management” at the firm, too. Professionally, I’m focused on expanding Adams Wealth Partners to become one of the most client-centered firms in the country, while mentoring the next generation of advisors. I am also writing several books, from financial literacy for kids to lessons on redefining success for business owners. It all ties back to my philosophy: wealth is just a tool to live more fully. I also have a personal passion project—bringing spaces to life through creative design, thoughtful remodeling, and interior design projects around Nashville. It’s a way for me to express my creativity outside the world of finance. You can see more of my work at Rossi Design Company.

Meghan Forte: How do you see the financial planning landscape evolving over the next decade?

David Adams: The industry is moving away from being purely investment-driven to being truly holistic. Technology will keep driving efficiency, but clients don’t just want algorithms—they want a trusted partner who understands their story. Over the next decade, I see more emphasis on behavioral coaching, family governance, and integrating financial planning with health, purpose, and lifestyle. Advisors who can combine technical expertise with human connection will continue to thrive.

Meghan Forte: You’ve consistently been recognized by Forbes, Barron’s, and Raymond James. What do you think sets you apart in the wealth management industry?

David Adams: I’ve always believed it’s not about beating the market—it’s about helping people live the life they envision. Recognition is nice, but what sets me apart is the intentionality behind everything we do. We built our firm around the philosophy of Retire While You Work®—helping clients live fully today while planning responsibly for tomorrow. Clients feel that we’re not just managing assets, we’re helping them manage life. That human focus makes all the difference.

Meghan Forte: You are deeply involved in organizations like AncoraTN and the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. How do these causes align with your personal and professional philosophy?

David Adams: Giving back is at the heart of my personal values and our firm’s culture. AncoraTN focuses on helping eliminate human trafficking in our community, which is something I care deeply about. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is personal for me—I’ve seen how this disease impacts families. Both causes remind me that money is only as valuable as the impact it enables. Supporting these organizations is a way to use my resources, platform, and community to make a difference beyond the balance sheet.

David Adams embodies a rare blend of financial acumen and human understanding. His Retire While You Work® philosophy reimagines the traditional idea of retirement, inspiring people to find balance, joy, and fulfillment in every season of life—not just at the finish line. Through his leadership at Adams Wealth Partners, dedication to mentorship, and passion for giving back, Adams continues to shape a more purposeful, holistic approach to wealth and well-being. Blending financial wisdom with a lifestyle rooted in meaning and presence, he reminds us that true success is about living fully—today and every day.

Nashville Location: 

2905 12th Ave. South, #108 

Nashville, TN 37204 

Phone: (615) 435-3644

Murfreesboro Location: 

1639 Medical Center Pkwy., Floor 4 Murfreesboro, TN 37129 

Professional Website 

Adams Wealth Partners Instagram Profile

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