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
Episode 75: Boost Your Income: Key Takeaways from IndieTech with Erik and Xavier
By Erik Garcia
In this episode of the “Stuff About Money” podcast, hosts Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA™, ChFC®, and Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC®, CLTC, share their top takeaways from the IndieTech Conference. While they usually dive into saving…
Podcast
Episode 74: Top 3 Financial Planning Tips for Early-Career Pharmacists
By Erik Garcia
In this episode of the “Stuff About Money” podcast, co-hosts Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA™, ChFC® and Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC®, CLTC discuss key financial planning strategies for pharmacists at the start of their careers. They…
Podcast
Episode 73: Should My Agency Be My Only Retirement Plan? Insights with Carey Wallace
By Erik Garcia
In this episode of the “Stuff About Money” podcast, host Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA, ChFC®, welcomes back Carey Wallace to tackle the question: Should your insurance agency be your only retirement plan? Carey shares her…
Podcast
Episode 72: Momentum Investing: Exploring Relative Strength with Ian Saunders
By Erik Garcia
In this episode of the “Stuff About Money” podcast, host Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA™, ChFC®, welcomes Ian Saunders, Senior Research Analyst for Nasdaq Dorsey Wright. They explore the world of Relative Strength, also known as…
Podcast
Episode 71: Should I Adjust My Portfolio? The Emotions of Investing with Dr. Matt Morris
By Erik Garcia
In this episode of the “Stuff About Money” podcast, host Erik Garcia CFP®, BFA™, ChFC®, is joined by long-time friend of the show, Dr. Matt Morris. Together, they tackle the question: “Should I adjust my…
Podcast
Episode 70: Mental Frameworks for Making Better Financial Decisions
By Erik Garcia
In this episode of the “Stuff About Money” podcast, host Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA™, ChFC®, sits down with Ryan Hanley, a consultant to an AI marketing company, successful podcaster, and executive coach. Ryan’s podcast, “The…
Podcast
Episode 69: From Business to Household CFO: Financial Wisdom with Carey Wallace
By Erik Garcia
In this episode of the “Stuff About Money” podcast, host Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA, ChFC®, welcomes Carey Wallace, a Fractional CFO for independent insurance agency owners. They explore the crucial role of a Household CFO…
Podcast
Episode 68: How to Maximize the Value of Your Insurance Agency
By Erik Garcia
As business owners, the majority of our net worth is tied to the value of our business. What steps should we take today to maximize this value for a future sale? In this episode of…
Podcast
Episode 67: Build Lasting Financial Security: Embrace These 3 Essential Habits
By Erik Garcia
What does it mean to achieve financial security? Is it having a certain dollar amount in the bank or the ability to maintain your desired lifestyle no matter what happens? Erik Garcia (CFP®, BFA™, ChFC®)…

