What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your job and why?
One challenging aspect of our industry is that you cannot control what is happening in the market. What you can control is how you interact with your clients. Helping our clients create a solid wealth plan that enables them to feel secure, even during times of increased market volatility, is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job.
Who do you look up to or admire in business and why?
Dolly Parton is one of my favorite businesswomen! She has not only been incredibly successful in her entertainment career but devotes substantial resources to causes that are important to her. She contributes to wildlife preservation with the Eagle Mountain Sanctuary and encourages a love of reading with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, sending a book each month to children from birth to age five. Reading to my daughter is one of my favorite activities, and I love that Dolly is helping to make books more accessible to millions of children worldwide.
Thinking about your career, what advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
I would tell my 21-year-old self to slow down and enjoy the journey. I have always been a goal-oriented person, so it is easy to constantly be focused on what’s next. Don’t forget to appreciate where you are now! Remember, you once dreamed of being where you are today.
What has been the high point in your career?
Obtaining my Certified Financial Planner designation has been one of the high points in my career so far. You complete extensive financial planning coursework and a rigorous exam to achieve the designation. The topics covered range from investment planning to the psychology behind financial planning. The skills I learned while preparing for the CFP exam help me to better assist our clients on a daily basis.
What are the best things about living and working in Dane County?
I love summers in Madison. It is my favorite time to enjoy our beautiful lakes and explore the extensive network of trails and bike paths around our city. I am an early bird, and my perfect Saturday begins with a stroll around the Dane County Farmers’ Market. There is no better way to start the weekend than with a beautiful bouquet of flowers and a Stella’s spicy cheese bread!
