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
Coming to America
By Erik Garcia
In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Erik Garcia, CFP® and Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC, interviews Felix Garcia, our co-host’s fearless father, drops serious wisdom in this intimate conversation. Erik and Xavier…
Podcast
Compound Interest: Your Secret Weapon to Building Wealth
By Erik Garcia
Building wealth is easier when you have time on your side. Time allows you to leverage compound interest. Listen in as Xavier Angel, CFP® and Erik Garcia, CFP® introduce you to your secret weapon to…
Podcast
I Got No Car Note! With Nolin Frias
By Erik Garcia
In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Erik Garcia, CFP® and Xavier Angel, CFP®, sit down with Nolin Frias CFP®, CPWA®, CIMA®, CSRIC to chat about how to never have a car note again,…
Podcast
2 Ways To Increase Your Net Worth in 2022
By Erik Garcia
In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Erik Garcia, CFP® and Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC, discuss 2 ways to increase your net worth in 2022. Your net worth is an important measure…
Podcast
Inflation, Bananas, and Free Toasters with Phil Blancato
By Erik Garcia
In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Erik Garcia, CFP® sits down with Phil Blancato, CEO of Ladenburg Asset Management. Phil shares with us his simple formula for investment success. Then Phil and…
Podcast
Money – A Thermometer of Wellness for the Couple
By Erik Garcia
In the premiere episode of the Stuff About Money They Didn’t Teach You In School podcast, co-hosts Erik Garcia CFP® and Xavier Angel ChFC, CLTC, are joined by Dr. Matt Morris LPC, LMFT, who explains…
Article
Is investing in the stock market like gambling?
By Erik Garcia
Attending my first in-person conference post-pandemic in Las Vegas felt almost normal. Osaic Wealth did a fantastic job of hosting over 3200 financial advisors in the midst of what hopefully are the waning days of the…
Topics Investing
Podcast
Quitting For Winners
By Erik Garcia
We have an ethos in America that quitting is bad. Quitting is weak. Quitting is for losers. We preach… “One step at a time.” “Life is not a sprint.” “Keep grinding.” Grit, Grind, and Persistence…
Article
Emergency Funds Q & A
By Erik Garcia
Don’t wait for your next “rainy day” moment to realize you need to save up for the unexpected. It’s only a matter of time you are faced with a financial emergency.
Topics Saving

