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
Plan Wisely Podcast with Erik Garcia – Trailer
By Erik Garcia
Meet Erik Garcia, New Orleans financial adviser. In our trailer, Erik explains how he believes financial decisions and behaviors influence our entire lives. He’s joined by Jon “JAG” Gay, former afternoon host and program director…
Topics
Article
Modern Day Scams To Avoid
By Erik Garcia
The possibility of being targeted for a scam or a malicious scheme is well-known, and you may be aware of some of the more common or outdated scams. Today’s criminals, however, are increasingly devious. They…
Topics Money 101
Article
Are You Prepared For Medicare Open Enrollment?
By Erik Garcia
If you are approaching the age of 65 or already an eligible beneficiary, open enrollment for 2020 Medicare health benefits starts soon. For new enrollees over 65 or turning 65 and don’t have medicare, you…
Topics Retirement Planning
Article
Life Insurance, It’s Not For You!
By Erik Garcia
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month which gives us a reason to talk about a subject that some try to avoid. Life insurance can conjure up dark images. Many people are jarred into realizing the…
Topics Estate Planning, Insurance Planning
Article
4 Barriers To Financial Success
By Erik Garcia
There are many factors that lead to financial success, and there are factors that are barriers to our success. As humans we rely a lot on our emotions and instinct to make decisions. Often times…
Topics Behavioral Finance
Article
Shark Week and Making Sound Investment Decisions: Availability Bias
By Erik Garcia
Video Transcription: I remember as a kid if we were going swimming we were not allowed to eat 30 minutes prior to going in the water. For some reason my mom and my grandma would…
Topics Investing
Article
Tax Time: 3 topics that come up EVERY year
By Erik Garcia
It’s that time of year again. And I’m not talking about Mardi Gras. I’m talking tax season and it’s not nearly as exciting as carnival time. Every year there are a few questions and conversations…
Topics Taxes

