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
Plan To Have Medicare Coverage For Your Winter Travel
By Erik Garcia
As a senior you should plan to protect your health no matter where you might venture. If you currently have Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan, you shouldn’t have any problems getting the care you…
Topics Retirement Planning
Article
Qualified Charitable Contributions for 2019
By Erik Garcia
We are nearing the end of 2019 and the opportunity to give for this year. If a person has reached the age of 70.5 they can make cash donations to charities that are approved by…
Topics Retirement Planning
Podcast
The Best Way To Join Money In Marriage with Dr. Matt Morris – Plan Wisely Episode #4
By Erik Garcia
EPISODE SUMMARY Should couples have married or separate financial accounts? With the help of couples therapist Dr. Matt Morris, we dive into the pros and cons of each – as well as some of the…
Topics Building Us Podcast, Couples & Money
Article
2020 Important Retirement Numbers
By Erik Garcia
Every new year brings a fresh beginning, this can be just as true now as it ever was. In 2020, expect increases in savings pretax limits for workers looking toward retirement. If you’ve already reached…
Topics Retirement Planning
Article
Do Presidential Elections Actually Impact The Stock Market?
By Erik Garcia
More often than not, whenever a presidential election year is underway, you will hear a lot of news anchors and financial analysts will talk about the economy and the stock market. There will often be…
Topics Investing
Article
2020 Contribution Limits for Employer Sponsored Plans
By Erik Garcia
The 2020 contribution and benefit limits have been released by the IRS. The contribution limit for employees who participate in 401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans, and the federal government’s Thrift Savings Plan is increased. The…
Topics Retirement Planning
Podcast
How To Deny Your Kid To Better Their Financial Future with Dr. Roy Salgado – Plan Wisely Episode #3
By Erik Garcia
EPISODE NOTES Today, Erik and Jag are joined by licensed family therapist Roy Salgado to discuss how we can teach our kids healthy financial habits. There are 4 common responses to kids when they want…
Topics Kids & Money
Article
Does The Fed Lowering Interest Rates Really Hurt Retirees?
By Erik Garcia
In most cases, the actions of the Federal Reserve lowering interest rates are a good thing because a lot of economic activity depends on the ability of businesses to borrow money. It is of course…
Topics Retirement Planning
Article
2019 Catch Up Contributions
By Erik Garcia
The IRS does a good job of providing the country’s elder statesmen with ways to save for retirement. Some of the most popular investment vehicles the IRS provides access to for the benefit of US…
Topics Retirement Planning

