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
Adjust Your Work-Life Balance with Dr. Ben Dichiara
By Erik Garcia
EPISODE SUMMARY In this episode of the Building Us podcast, co-hosts Erik Garcia, CFP® and Dr. Matt Morris, LPC, LMFT interview Ben Dichiara, Chiropractor and Manager at Allied Chiropractic and Wellness. Ben talks about his business and his knowledge and expertise in…
Topics Building Us Podcast
Podcast
The Entrepreneurial COVID Pivot with Michael Barr
By Erik Garcia
EPISODE SUMMARY In this episode of Building Us podcast, co-hosts Erik Garcia, CFP® and Dr. Matt Morris, LPC, LMFT chat with guest Michael Barr, co-owner of OPA Signs & Graphics. Michael discusses the history of their family business, the challenges he…
Topics Building Us Podcast
Article
2020 May Be A Good Time For A ROTH
By Erik Garcia
Even during difficult financial times, opportunity can come knocking at your door. There is very little doubt that the current COVID19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on the U.S. economy, affecting almost every individual in its…
Topics Retirement Planning
Article
Summer Home Security Tips
By Erik Garcia
Your home is your pride and joy and you should always feel safe and secure when you are in it.Summer is upon us and the warmer temperatures mean we are spending a lot more time…
Topics Retirement Planning
Podcast
Inter-racial Marriage with Mike and Leah Stancil
By Erik Garcia
EPISODE SUMMARY In this episode of the Building Us podcast, co-hosts Erik Garcia, CFP® and Dr. Matt Morris, LPC, LMFT interview Mike Stancil, PLPC, Counselor at Dr. Matt Morris & Associates and his wife Leah…
Topics Building Us Podcast
Podcast
Early Years: The Building Us Story
By Erik Garcia
EPISODE SUMMARY In this episode of Building Us podcast, co-hosts Erik Garcia, CFP® and Dr. Matt Morris, LPC, LMFT discuss the impacts of money on relationships and business, the significance of investing in relationships, the…
Topics Building Us Podcast
Podcast
How to Stop Stressing About Stress
By Erik Garcia
EPISODE SUMMARY In this episode of Building Us podcast, co-hosts Erik Garcia, CFP®, and Dr. Matt Morris, LPC, LMFT, discuss better ways to deal with stress, the different kinds of stress, and how stress impacts…
Topics Building Us Podcast
Podcast
You Need a Vacation
By Erik Garcia
EPISODE SUMMARY In this episode of Building Us podcast, co-hosts Erik Garcia, CFP® and Dr. Matt Morris, LPC, LMFT talk about the significance of taking a vacation and the physical and mental benefits of it….
Topics Building Us Podcast
Article
Laid Off Before You’re Ready To Retire?
By Erik Garcia
If you have been one of the many impacted by COVID-19 and you’re closer to retirement than some, then you should look through these tips to see what you can do to overcome this problem….
Topics Retirement Planning

