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
Article
Unraveling the Mysteries of College Financing
By Erik Garcia
When it comes to college financing, the maze of financial aid, FAFSA forms, student loans, and 529 plans can be overwhelming. But understanding these complexities is key to unlocking a brighter future. This guide empowers…
Topics College Planning
Podcast
How Much Stock Market Risk Is Just Right? With Dr. John Grable
By Erik Garcia
All investing involves some level of risk. The role of the financial planner is to create a risk profile for investors so that investment recommendations match the investor’s financial and emotional aptitude. In this episode…
Podcast
What Factors Determine My Mortgage Interest Rate? w/ Jason Gauthier
By Erik Garcia
There are many factors that determine your interest rate when getting a mortgage. In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Erik Garcia, CFP®, and Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC, discuss all things mortgages…
Podcast
How To Build & Keep Wealth w/ Dr. Billy Williams
By Erik Garcia
It is the habits that we establish personally and professionally that will ultimately decide the success or failure we experience with our money. In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Dr. Billy Williams…
Podcast
Plan Wisely: How To Prep Your Finances for the Next Recession
By Erik Garcia
Experts disagree on when the next recession will come, but the markets are cyclical. This means, sooner or later, eventually a recession will be upon us. If you’re concerned about a recession, you aren’t alone….
Podcast
Which IRA Is Right for Me…Roth or Traditional?
By Erik Garcia
Which type of IRA is better for me, a traditional IRA or a Roth IRA? What are the advantages of each? In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Erik Garcia, CFP® and Xavier…
Podcast
Plan Wisely: Coping with Financial and Family Stress During Times of Anxiety
By Erik Garcia
These are trying times, both financially and psychologically. Dr. Matt Morris rejoins Erik Garcia and Jag today. Together, we cover the volatile market as well as the “new normal” of having families together for significantly…
Podcast
Who Are You Taking Your Financial Cues From?
By Erik Garcia
Many of our financial decisions are rooted in what others are doing; however, oftentimes their goals are far different than ours. They are essentially playing a different game with different rules. In this episode of…
Podcast
Importance of Collaboration between your CPA and Financial Advisor
By Erik Garcia
As the tax landscape ever changes, it becomes more important for your CPA and Financial Planner to collaborate. In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Erik Garcia, CFP® and Xavier Angel, CFP® are…

