I never set out to work in financial services—my plan was to become a teacher. While finishing my final semester at Utica College of Syracuse University in 2007, I took a part-time filing job at a financial firm to earn some extra income. But what started as temporary work quickly turned into something I loved. I was drawn to the organization, the problem-solving, and the sense of purpose that came with helping clients. Instead of stepping into a classroom, I decided to stay and build a career that continues to challenge and inspire me nearly two decades later.
Since then, I’ve grown my expertise in operations and leadership, earning my FINRA Series 7 license in 2021 and my Series 66 license in 2024. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of serving in leadership roles, including on Osaic’s Service Excellence Council (formerly the National Operations Excellence Council) in 2022. In January 2025, I was selected to return to the council—a role I’m honored to hold as we continue working together to enhance efficiency, collaboration, and the overall client experience. After spending most of my career with one firm, I was drawn to Xavier and Erik’s client-centered approach to financial planning. After many great conversations, I knew it was the right fit and officially joined the Plan Wisely team in November 2024.
On a personal note:
Outside of work, my story centers on family and community. My husband, Andrew, and I live in West Winfield, NY, where we’re raising our three daughters. Between soccer and volleyball schedules, school events, and cheering for our favorite teams (the Buffalo Bills, Manchester City F.C., the USMNT, and UNC), there’s always something happening—and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Giving back and staying active are big parts of who we are as a family. Each year, I take part in the American Heart Association’s Heart Run and Walk in Utica, honoring family members affected by heart disease and remembering my Uncle Frank. We also proudly support the Kelberman Center’s annual autism fundraising efforts and walk to celebrate my niece—and the unique, wonderful qualities autism has awarded her. Both causes are deeply personal to me and remind our family of the power of compassion, awareness, and community.
And if you know me, you know I’m rarely without a great pair of heels, a bold lip color, and a good laugh with family or friends. I believe life’s better when you bring a little style, warmth, and joy to everything you do—whether that’s at work, at home, or somewhere in between.
My Content
Podcast
Want Long-Lasting Love? Maybe It’s Time to Combine Your Finances
By Erik Garcia
Want Long-Lasting Love? Maybe It’s Time to Combine Your Finances Source: Cornell Chronicle The Big Takeaway: The more dependent you are on your partner, the more aligned your goals and interests are. Studies have shown…
Topics Building Us Podcast, Couples & Money
Podcast
Secure Act 2.0 Impact on Business Retirement Planning with Vinnie Allard, AIF®
By Erik Garcia
For the majority of Americans, retiring is an inevitable stage of life, one that comes with both the promise of relaxing without having to work and the threat of saving enough to make that promise…
Article
Money: The relationship maker or breaker
By Erik Garcia
Money: The relationship maker or breaker Source: CNBC The Big Takeaway: Money is one of the most common things couples argue about, but it doesn’t have to be. If you take the time to learn…
Topics Couples & Money
Podcast
Financial Literacy and Leaving the Classroom with The Great Teacher Resignation
By Erik Garcia
Walking away from your job is hard, no matter what your job is. With it comes financial questions that you’ll have to answer. Whoever you are, being financially literate will surely make those questions easier…
Podcast
“If It’s to Be, It’s Up to Me”, Visioning and Role Modeling With Daniel Seong
By Erik Garcia
In this installment of the Stuff About Money podcast, Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA, and Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC, are joined by TikTok sensation Daniel Seong to discuss growing wealth from nothing and how to be…
Article
Coffee: Is it helping or hurting your budgeting abilities?
By Erik Garcia
Source: Science Daily The Big Takeaway: Researchers found that people who drink caffeinated coffee before shopping spend 50% more on average compared to people who drink water or decaffeinated coffee. If you’re trying to stay on budget,…
Topics Spending & Budgeting
Article
Materialism vs. The Holidays
By Erik Garcia
Source: American Psychological Association The Big Takeaway: Materialism doesn’t typically have a positive relationship with well-being. Getting more “stuff” doesn’t always make you feel better about yourself. However, these negative correlations can be even stronger during the…
Podcast
7 Financial Issues You Should Discuss Before Getting Married With Jessica Burke
By Erik Garcia
Marriage is such a beautiful thing! Sealing the deal with your beloved can be magical! Y’all don’t want ANYTHING to get in the way of your burgeoning marriage – so it’s a good idea to…
Article
Seven Investor Psychology Traps to Avoid
By Erik Garcia
Seven Investor Psychology Traps to Avoid Source: Kiplinger The Big Takeaway: We are our own worst enemy when it comes to investing. Don’t let your emotions trick you into making poor decisions. The Details Investing can often…
Topics Investing

