John Hyland, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Private Advisor Group, has long been a driving force in elevating the role of philanthropy in the financial services sector.
The immediate past Chair of The Invest in Others Charitable Foundation (IiO) Board of Directors was recently presented with that organization’s second Executive Tribute, its annual recognition of leaders who pair industry success with extraordinary service and a deep commitment to giving back.
Hyland’s story is both professional and personal. He became involved in the fight against acute myeloid leukemia (AML) because of a family connection, receiving IiO’s Community Service Award before being diagnosed with AML himself. He has shared his journey while turning it into action through fundraising, endurance races and inspiration.
We recently spoke with Hyland after his latest accolade about how philanthropy is reshaping the financial services industry, what leaders can do to embed giving into their firms’ cultures and client relationships, and more.
WSR: How did you get started volunteering and how did that affect your health journey?
Hyland: Service was instilled in me from an early age. My grandfather and both my parents served as mayors of Morristown, New Jersey, and their example taught me that service is not just a responsibility but a way of life. When my aunt was diagnosed with AML, I turned to Blood Cancer United (formerly the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) as a place to honor her. What began as combining marathon and Ironman training with fundraising evolved into a lifelong mission. For more than two decades, I’ve had the privilege of serving on its board of trustees, supporting patients and families.
Years later, when I faced my own cancer diagnoses, I was grateful to already be surrounded by that same community. With their care, the unwavering support of my family, and the resilience forged through years of training, I continue to navigate my own health journey while walking beside others in theirs.
WSR: Of course, you give because you want to make the world better but, in the process, what did you learn about how giving to others actually gives back to the advisor?
Hyland: I often say, the more you give, the more you get in return. When advisors weave philanthropy into their lives, the impact reaches far beyond the organizations they support. Clients and colleagues notice when values are lived out, and that authenticity is inspiring.
Charitable giving and volunteerism build trust, strengthen relationships and create opportunities to connect with people in ways no quarterly review meeting ever could. Through events and campaigns, I’ve been so fortunate to meet caring, value-driven people and broaden my circle and giving impact in such meaningful ways.
Keeping sight of the greater good reminds us that this profession is noble.
Service has also given me perspective. I began by fundraising for a cause and later became the beneficiary of the life-saving research those efforts supported. Our work as advisors can be stressful, but keeping sight of the greater good reminds us that this profession is noble — because it is about improving lives, not just managing investments.
WSR: How can an advisor build a giving and service culture at their firm?
Hyland: I’ve seen the most impact come when leaders roll up their sleeves, whether that’s organizing volunteer days, partnering with nonprofits or simply inviting colleagues to join them in a cause they care about.
At Private Advisor Group, I’ve even roped teammates into my Ironman fundraising efforts for Blood Cancer United. Nothing bonds a team like an early morning swim practice!
Beyond the sweat, those experiences taught me a lot about leadership and perseverance. You realize quickly that people rise higher when they know they’re part of something meaningful. Advisors can do the same in their firms: Show up, share what matters to you, and create opportunities for others to step in. Leading by example is how service shifts from an activity to a culture.
WSR: What should advisors know about mental health?
Hyland: Mental health is just as important as financial health, yet many advisors feel unprepared to talk about their own struggles. I’ve learned the hard way that you can’t power through everything on your own, no matter how many marathons or Ironman races you’ve finished. Asking for help isn’t a weakness; it’s a strength.
Asking for help isn’t a weakness; it’s a strength.
Our profession comes with constant pressure, but leaning on a community — whether colleagues, family or friends — makes the weight easier to carry. One of the most meaningful things we can do as advisors is normalize these conversations. By being open about challenges and showing it’s okay to need support, we create space for others to do the same. In the end, you don’t cross the finish line alone, but with the support of the people around you.
Jeff Berman, Contributing Editor and Reporter at Wealth Solutions Report, can be reached at jeff.berman@wealthsolutionsreport.com.
