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
COVID-19 Was Your Retirement Plan Test?
By Erik Garcia
Countless Americans are worried about the impact that Covid-19 will have on the health of their families and friends, and indeed their own well-being. However, there is another concern that could impact you. In preparing…
Topics Retirement Planning
Article
What is Dollar Cost Averaging and why it matters for your investments
By Erik Garcia
If you haven’t started investing towards a long-term goal because you’re worried about short-term market volatility, consider using a popular investment strategy called dollar cost averaging. Dollar cost averaging takes some of the guesswork out…
Article
The Business Owners Guide to the Paycheck Protection Program
By Erik Garcia
In response to the economic uncertainties surrounding the COVID crisis, Congress has acted by passing the CARES Act to help stabilize the economy and preserve the employment of millions of people. The government has been…
Topics Money 101
Article
Medicare Expands Tele-Medicine Help Due To COVID-19
By Erik Garcia
Medicare recently announced the expansion of its telemedicine program to benefit seniors while they stay at home during the Coronavirus pandemic. This expansion will allow millions of senior Medicare participants to adhere to the public…
Topics Retirement Planning
Article
What Emergency Relief Options Should I Consider During The Coronavirus Pandemic?
By Erik Garcia
Are you curious about financial relief you may qualify for as an individual due to Coronavirus? This checklist covers the new emergency relief options for you to consider to help you navigate your options. This…
Topics Money 101
Podcast
Guest Host: Crisis Fretting vs Crisis Planning; Rational Overconfidence; Servant Leadership
By Erik Garcia
COVID19 Special Edition Podcast Series, Helping insurance leaders lead their people. I am honored to have been selected to offer insight on leading through crisis on the Agency Intelligence Podcast. It’s a good listen and…
Topics
Article
How To Thrive As A Family During The COVID Crisis with Dr. Roy Salgado
By Erik Garcia
In this episode I am joined by Dr. Roy Salgado. Dr. Roy drops some serious wisdom on how to thrive as a family during this COVID crisis. As parents, we are charged with leading our…
Topics Video
Article
Staying Fit During Quarantine With Jodi Jordan
By Erik Garcia
Listen in on my conversation with my friend and gym owner Jodi Lynn Jordan of CrossFit Algiers. She discusses staying fit while in quarantine. Fitness can lead to better emotional health. It can help you…
Topics Video

