I've been in this business since January 1987, and after 39 years, I still find myself fascinated by the intersection of economics and people's lives. What started as an economics major at Portland State University, where I briefly considered becoming an attorney, evolved into a Business degree and career built on something more fundamental: helping people navigate one of the most significant aspects of their lives with clarity and confidence.
My path here wasn't conventional. I moved out on my own after high school, worked my way up to management at Pizza Hut while putting myself through college, and learned early what it means to support a family while building toward something better. Then, when a family friend unexpectedly and with quick notice invited me to take over his practice, I learned even more about what it takes to run and grow a company while also being there for my family, employees, and clients.
I expanded our reach by leading workshops at the Port of Portland, Multnomah County, Junior Colleges, and many other venues and companies. The principle was always the same: help anyone who needed it, regardless of where they were starting from.
What keeps me engaged after all these years is straightforward: I get to travel through life with my clients. I witness their entire financial journey: the planning, the pivots, the milestones, and ultimately, the legacy they leave. There's something deeply rewarding about hearing their stories, whether it's a cycling adventure, a new grandchild, or simply how they're spending their retirement. Those conversations remind me why this work matters.
My approach centers on being a resource when it counts most. I actively help clients navigate Social Security applications, Medicare enrollment, and Oregon PERS benefits, often calling offices alongside them to make sure everything is handled correctly. I coordinate with attorneys and accountants to align retirement strategies with broader financial goals. This hands-on involvement isn't extra; it's essential. When someone has worked hard to earn and save their money, managing it demands that level of respect and attention.
I hold Series 7, 63, and 66 registrations across over 30 states. But credentials matter less than results. What I value most is delivering personalized guidance that empowers clients to move forward with confidence, even in an increasingly uncertain world. Finding optimism and reason when emotion runs high, that's where real value lives.
Outside the office, I'm part of a blended family with my wife, Heather. Together, we have five children, three grandchildren, and our dog, whom we unashamedly refer to as our child. We love spending time at our beach home, where we hike, kayak, and enjoy the Pacific Northwest with Kona. I've completed three Ironman triathlons along with various marathons and ultramarathons over the years, though these days I'm focusing more on travel. Heather and I recently took our first two-week trip to Europe, the longest I've ever unplugged from the office.
I'm active in our community as Chief Steward of our local church and Board Member for the Glen Garcelon Foundation, where I apply my financial expertise to support the foundation's mission. My faith and my family drive me to set an example of what responsibility and integrity look like, both at home and in my career.
After nearly four decades, I'm still motivated by the same thing: seeing clients achieve what they've worked toward and knowing I played a meaningful role in helping them get there.
I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Business from Portland State University.
Credentials: Series 7, 63, 66