Elayne Pisarik, CFP®, CLU, ChFC, CDMM, MS, M.Tax

Education:

— B.S., University of Tennessee

— M.S., University of Central Florida

— M.Tax, Nova Southeastern University

Professional Designations:

— Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®)

— Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU®)

— Certified Financial Planner (CFP®)

— Certified Daily Money Manager (CDMM)

Associations:

— Registered Financial Advisor, National Association for Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA).

— Investment Advisor Representative, U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission ( SEC)

You've achieved quite an academic resume, including a masters degree in engineering - how does this lend to tax planning?
"I’ve always loved taking things apart to see how they work. Engineering let me use my analytical side, but I realized I also wanted to help people directly. Finance gave me that chance to solve problems and make a real difference in someone’s life."

You've achieved quite an academic resume, including a masters degree in engineering - how does this lend to tax planning?
"I’ve always loved taking things apart to see how they work. Engineering let me use my analytical side, but I realized I also wanted to help people directly. Finance gave me that chance to solve problems and make a real difference in someone’s life."

What sets your approach to planning apart?
"I treat every client like a puzzle. I dig into the details of their finances, taxes, and goals to find opportunities that really matter. It’s not cookie-cutter; it’s about making each plan fit the individual."

You mention tax planning is a particular passion. Why is that?
"I love the challenge. Tax planning is full of nuances and exceptions - like a spaghetti mess of rules - but finding ways for clients to save money legitimately is incredibly satisfying. It’s like uncovering a hidden secret together."

What’s the most rewarding part of your work?
"Seeing a client get excited when they realize we can save them taxes or make their plan more efficient. That shared excitement is energizing. At the end of the day, I want clients to live full lives without worrying about money."

How do you approach working with different generations of clients?
"Each generation has its quirks. Older generations often kept financial decisions within one person, leaving others in the dark. Younger clients sometimes do everything independently, which can create conflicts. I help bridge those gaps with clear planning and communication."

What common problems do you see families run into?
"Big issues come from a lack of coordination. Either one person controls everything, or everyone does their own thing. Comprehensive planning helps families align, avoid mistakes, and make sure everyone’s goals are considered."

What principles guide your work at FirsTrust?
"We focus on personalized, fee-only planning. Success isn’t just about numbers; it’s about helping clients feel secure, confident, and free to enjoy life without money worries."

What excites you most when working with clients?
"I get genuinely excited when clients share that same enthusiasm about saving taxes or optimizing their plan. Seeing them energized and optimistic makes the work incredibly rewarding."

Tell us something personal about yourself that most people wouldn’t know.
"I’ve always loved puzzles, which probably explains my passion for tax planning. Outside of work, I enjoy challenges that let me think analytically and creatively - whether it’s a tricky crossword or a home project."