Growing up with public school teacher parents, I learned early the value of education, hard work, and staying true to your compass. Those lessons still guide me in life and in investing.

I majored in government and economics and was heading to grad school, but a Wall Street firm recruited me. That first role opened the door, and soon I was back in Florida trading on an institutional equity desk.

Trading was exciting, but I realized I wanted to help individual investors directly. That's when I pursued my CFA and moved into private wealth management—designing portfolios that fit real people's lives.

I step into my clients' shoes and make decisions like it's my own money—prudent, cost-conscious, and tax-smart. Often the best move is actually doing nothing when the crowd is acting, and I help clients navigate that counterintuitive side of investing.

Every client is a puzzle. Different accounts, cost bases, and tax considerations mean I get to assemble a strategy that fits their big picture. It's incredibly satisfying to see it all come together.

The biggest frustration is the tarnish that hangs over our industry and the lack of real investor protections. Without strong fiduciary standards, consumers are left at a serious disadvantage navigating confusing and sometimes deceptive practices.

It's eye-opening. Meeting with members of Congress and the SEC, I make the case for stricter fiduciary rules and transparency. It's about trying to level the playing field for investors and push real reforms.

I focus on eliminating conflicts of interest, not just disclosing them. At FirsTrust, we're Fee-Only, meaning our advice is never influenced by commissions or product incentives. Doing the right thing for clients always comes first.

I was on the CFA Society of Orlando board for a very long time. I also created an ethics competition for students across Florida, mentor business students, and serve on boards focused on fiduciary best practices and supporting children in need.

I love mentoring young people—it keeps me connected and inspired. I also enjoy the challenge of teaching ethics; seeing students think critically about real-world financial dilemmas is incredibly rewarding.