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
Always be giving with Gertha Jean
By Erik Garcia
Hear how Gertha passionately serves her community and meets the needs of others. She says, “Bless others as you are blessed”, and “If we have and you need it, come and get it”. Welcome to…
Podcast
“My heart is smiling,” with Chris Paradiso
By Erik Garcia
Chris shares his dad’s wisdom “The greatest gift we can give is to someone who could never repay us.” Hear how Chris involves his team and his family in giving. Welcome to “Insurance Professionals Are…
Podcast
What will the stock market do in 2024? with Phil Blancato
By Erik Garcia
In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, join Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA, as he sits down once again with two-time guest Phil Blancato, CEO of Ladenburg Asset Management and Chief Market Strategist for…
Podcast
“Give To Others” with Billy Wagner
By Erik Garcia
Join Erik Garcia, CFP®, and guest co-host Billy Wagner in their new mini-podcast series, “Insurance Professionals Are Givers,” as they explore Erik’s fifth pillar of financial security: “Give To Others.” Discover how generosity isn’t just…
Podcast
Income Is Not Wealth. Wealth Is Not Income. w/ David Carothers
By Erik Garcia
There is a myth that people who look “richer” are thought to be “wealthy, but in reality, all that tells us is they have a more expensive lifestyle. Tied to that is the myth that…
Podcast
Impacting Community Through Giving With Inman Houston
By Erik Garcia
Discover how $350,000,000 is making a profound impact in New Orleans! In this episode, Inman Houston, President and CEO of Baptist Community Ministries (BCM), sheds light on how BCM is transforming lives by financially supporting…
Podcast
College Financing: Mastering FASFA, 529s & Essential Planning Tips with John Hupalo
By Erik Garcia
FAFSA? EFC? SAI? What does all this mean? College planning is complicated and overwhelming for both the student and the parent. There should be an easy button to plan for college. In this episode of…
Podcast
Taking Flyte and Changing Lives Through Financial Literacy With Alex Bigbie
By Erik Garcia
In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA, and Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC, hear from Alexander Bigbie of Flyte as he shares his story of running small programs to…
Podcast
Prepare, Don’t Predict. Surviving Uncertain Markets.
By Erik Garcia
If we could predict how the stock market performs, we’d be retired! The only thing CERTAIN right now is UNCERTAINITY. But is this uncertainty, new? War, presidential elections, inflation, oil, & ongoing recession talk have…

