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
Handling Transitions: How to Navigate Change Without Losing Stability
By Erik Garcia
Change is part of life—but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Transitions—whether personal, professional, planned, or unexpected—can shake our sense of identity, rhythm, and control. Even positive change can feel disruptive when it alters what we’ve…
Topics Cultivate Success
Podcast
The Art of Executive Communication
By Erik Garcia
You can have the best ideas in the world—but if you can’t communicate them clearly, they won’t move anyone. Great leadership requires great communication. Whether you’re casting vision, navigating hard conversations, or just trying to…
Topics Cultivate Success
Podcast
Decision-Making Under Pressure
By Erik Garcia
As a leader, decisions are part of your daily rhythm. But not all decisions are equal—and some carry more weight than others. Under pressure, even seasoned leaders can fall into traps: overthinking, reacting too quickly,…
Topics Cultivate Success
Podcast
Optimizing Your Workload: Working Smarter, Not Just Harder
By Erik Garcia
You’re getting things done—but are you getting the right things done? As a leader, your plate is always full. Tasks stack up, people need your input, and it’s easy to fall into a pattern of…
Topics Cultivate Success
Podcast
The Work/Home Divide: Setting Boundaries That Actually Stick
By Erik Garcia
As a high achiever, your work never really ‘stops’—but should it? You feel pressure from the outside and from deep inside that you NEED to find balance. But balance seems elusive. Just when you feel…
Topics Cultivate Success
Podcast
Do You Even Need a Coach? Recognizing the Signs
By Erik Garcia
You’re successful, driven, and operating at a high level—but something still feels off. Maybe you’re stuck, overwhelmed, or just not seeing the growth you want. You can use help to get to the next level….
Topics Cultivate Success
Podcast
Episode 90: Complex Isn’t Better: Rethinking Your Financial Plan
By Erik Garcia
Why do we assume something has to be complicated to be valuable? That question sparked a spontaneous recording session after Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™, walked into Xavier Angel’s office to unload a bit of…
Article
College Planning, The Plan Wisely Way
By Erik Garcia
Planning for college can feel overwhelming. With tuition costs rising and financial aid rules changing, it’s easy to feel stuck. And the truth is, the college planning conversation starts well before senior year. With the…
Topics College Planning
Podcast
Episode 89: Prepare for Future Spending by Practicing the Payment
By Erik Garcia
In this episode of the Stuff About Money They Didn’t Teach You in School podcast, host Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™, shares a practical financial strategy he personally uses—what he calls practicing your future payment….
