DISCOVER: Your hopes, dreams, needs, resources…What matters to you?

RECOMMEND: Your customized investment portfolio and wealth management services

IMPLEMENT: Initial paperwork, funding, timeline

REVIEW: Performance updates, portfolio adjustments, life changes

I grew up in Texas in a family of cattle ranchers, so I am well acquainted with hardship, perseverance, and grit. I started my career in accounting and earned my CPA in Texas. After successfully battling breast cancer, I realized I wanted…actually, I needed more meaningful work. So, I left the corporate world and entered the non-profit sphere.

After 25 years managing organizations’ finances, I decided to use my skills in a more direct and personal way. I bring a unique perspective based on my previous CFO and CPA experience, yet I enjoy working directly with individuals and families. I believe that financial planning is a tool that allows people to confidently pursue their dreams and goals in life. And I’m honored and proud to be that catalyst.

Since joining this financial practice in 2018, I’ve known that providing excellent customer service is better than selling products. And that personifies Thrive Financial Advisors. I became a Certified Financial Planner Practioner® in 2020. Working in a financial practice with Jim is an opportunity to align with a like-minded person in order to build a business with solid values.

I am privileged to have a career that provided so many opportunities across the southern United States. Today, I am happy to have found my niche in St. Petersburg, FL working as an independent financial advisor and enjoying the sunshine, beaches, arts and culture with my wife and friends.

I was born in downtown St. Petersburg to a less than ideal family situation. Changing schools three times between 1^st and 2^nd grade taught me to be adaptable, to think on my feet, and to make acquaintances. Thankfully, my grandparents stepped in and legally adopted me when I was 7. It was life-changing and life-defining for me. They opened their home and hearts, and gave me the stable foundation I was missing. I credit them for raising me, putting me through college, and developing me into the person I am today.

While getting my Finance Degree at the University of South Florida, I realized that I wanted to serve people by advising them on how to save and plan financially so they could have a sense of peace in retirement. Like my grandparents had done for me, I knew I wanted to help others build a stable foundation in their own lives.

I liked working for large companies like Charles Schwab and Morgan Stanley. But inside, I kept feeling like there was something more I could do for my clients.  So after many years with these firms, I decided I could provide a better experience and service to my clients by creating my own independent firm with LPL Financial.

Now, after looking back on my career which started in 1999, I realize how fortunate I am to be able to enjoy what I do; helping my clients feel financially secure, enjoying those I work with and spending quality time with my wife, son and daughter. Much of our time is spent on the beach, playing sports, and traveling. Life is good!

As an administrative assistant to Jim and Diane, my passion extends far beyond just managing tasks; for me it’s about being the reliable link that enhances the experience for our valued clients. From organizing documents to coordinating meetings, my goal is to alleviate the burden of financial management, allowing our clients to focus on what truly matters to them.

I was born and raised in Saint Petersburg, Florida, where I studied business. I stumbled into the financial field in 1998 as a cashier/wire operator. From there, I developed a solid foundation in the financial planning world, having honed my skills through education and practical experience. Since 1998 I have enjoyed working with clients who practically became family. In the intricate world of personal finance, having a dedicated assistant by your side to simplify the complexities can make all the difference.

I live in Saint Petersburg with my husband Seth, daughter Riley and our two crazy pets- a 110lb Bull Mastiff named Harley and a kitty named Binnie. Some of our hobbies include camping, ATVing, concerts, being with friends and family, and anything that is close to or on the water.