Who We Are

That’s the human element that recently drew me into this field. I can put my love of and interest in numbers to work for families interested in reaching their short- and long-term goals. In turn, I become someone my clients can rely on to take away stress associated with such things as supporting an ongoing lifestyle, paying for a child’s education, or planning for retirement so they can focus on what truly matters—more quality time with their loved ones.

And just because we’re on opposite sides of the table doesn’t mean we aren’t on the same team. My clients’ goals become my goals. I’m not in this profession to tell someone how to live their life. I’m here to enable that life, to provide financial direction, prioritize goals, and enhance fiscal health.

I know financial success and freedom can be intimidating to some people. But if I’m able to ease this trepidation through prudent and purposeful guidance, I know I can change a life. This opportunity for impact means everything to me, and once my financial services days are through, it’s a legacy I’ll be proud to leave behind.

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Before I worked in finance, I was a professional ice hockey goalie, and played across the U.S. and Europe until I retired in 2020.

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Navigating the Realm of Home Buying

THURSDAY / DEC 19

Online Class | 6:00PM - 7:00PM EST

Ian

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Was this the plan when I embarked on my professional journey? No. I earned my law degree in 2003, too—but I felt drawn to the meaningful work available in my current field, so I changed course and never looked back. The ability to make real connections with clients, develop sales teams, and have an impact on both contingents’ lives, continues to be rewarding.

When not charting financial plans amid ever-changing market conditions, I recharge my batteries in Wheatfield with the love of my life, Amy. We spend our time with her beautiful children, embarking on outdoor adventures together, hosting cookouts, and enjoying pool days with friends and family. In-between these plans, I find plenty of time to cook and try inventive new recipes—but never fear, I’ve yet to prepare a dish as invaluable as my financial direction, so guess I’ll keep my day job.

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I can play several instruments, including guitar, and ukulele. Have I used any of these instruments to play some of my favorite earworms like, the Red-Hot Chili Peppers’ “By the Way”? Possibly. Have I been successful? I guess I’ll keep my day job.

My way started with stints in international sales for a medical company and in business development for my family’s century-old manufacturing company. Elements from those jobs–increasing cash flow and holdings, limiting risk, and leaning on the research of experts—now serves me in my career in financial services, and has me headed toward new discoveries, every day.

As a Rochester native who’s traveled to all seven continents—and loves to experience different cultures and natural wonders of the world—I feel education is an essential part of life, one that helps us grow and evolve. In helping individuals with their financial planning needs, I get the opportunity to learn about my clients’ goals, all while I share with them what it will take to get them there. Together, we cultivate financial plans aimed at a desired destination, while able to navigate any twists and turns that arise.

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I’m also a private pilot, which seems like an off complement to financial planning, but it’s not. Flight planning can be a lot like financial planning. The point is to get from where we are to where we want to be, and along the way, we’re bound to encounter the unpredictable. Still, proper planning provides the smoothest ride—in both endeavors.

Outside of work, I’m a big foodie, so I love going out to local restaurants and bars. I also enjoy my Harley Davidson Fat Boy that I’ve been riding had since 2006. I appreciate all the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies, concerts (mainly rock and country), shooting sports, and snowboarding when I can find time.

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I am from the little town of Homer about 30 miles south of Syracuse. I have a bachelor’s degree in business with a concentration in finance from UB. The sole reason I chose UB and moved to Buffalo is because I am a die-hard Bills fan!

When I’m not dispelling many of the financial misconceptions people have, I enjoy golfing, vacationing with my wife, and playing with my dogs. I was born in Illion, NY and raised for most on my life in Greece, NY. I love the relatively short commutes wherever traveling in Rochester, where people enjoy a lower cost of living over other major cities.

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I was married in 2006. My wife is a Speech Language Pathologist and I’m very proud of the work she does and the difference she makes.

You never know what's going to give you the wake up call that you're an adult and need to get smart about money (for me, it was buying a toaster for the first time!), so I'm ready to educate people, no matter where they are in the process.

Like lots of people my age, I’m pretty busy outside of work—from holding a Tae Kwon Do black belt to holding office as president of the Western New York Charter Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association—so I get that it can be hard to make the time to talk about money. But I think once millennials start learning more, they’ll see it’s well worth it.

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Chef and entertainer at heart. North Buffalo runner. Believer in living for today and planning for tomorrow.

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Females and Finance

TUESDAY / DEC 17

Online Class | 6:00PM - 7:00PM EST

Sarah

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One of the best parts of my gig? Helping people everyday at all different stages of their life gain control, set goals, and make plans to better their personal and financial futures. It's never too early, or for that matter too late to start... Your future self will thank you!

I grew up in Amherst with a big (crazy) family, but we're as close as they come. If I'm not following my brother's hockey career, my sister's college softball team, or hanging out with the rest of my family, you can be sure to find me out and about enjoying everything Buffalo has to offer!

I currently call North Buffalo home with my wife Jacqueline, but have lived in just about every great neighborhood in the city!

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Sports analysts in another life... Still waiting for ESPN's phone call. All things hockey junkie. Chipotle addict. Movie and binge television watching enthusiast.

Unfortunately, people generally misunderstand the work we do as financial advisors. Our business addresses the financial needs of individuals whether they live a long time, die prematurely, or become disabled. Most of the time, I help my clients come up with solutions that fit their situation during uncertain times. Luckily, my work at The Establishment clarifies our purpose.

In my free time, I am active in my church and I love traveling. Whether it’s a weekend road trip or a trip overseas, it’s nice to know there is a world beyond my four walls!

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Born and raised in Amherst, NY. A diehard hard Bills and Sabres fan. Can do 100 pushups. Gives annually to Catholic Charities.

Over a decade later, I still enjoy seeing my clients and team reach and exceed their goals. I feel rewarded knowing I was there to coach them along their way to success.

Outside of work, I love to cook and build/fix things. Remodeling and fine woodworking is another passion of mine, which I did professionally. I can build custom doors and moldings in my own shop. Beyond that, I like spending time with my family and attending my kids’ sporting events.

Originally from Walworth, I live in the Rochester area simply because everything is 20 minutes away and my family is here.

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Past president for the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. Been on the board for six years.

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Personal Finance Fundamentals

WEDNESDAY / DEC 18

Online Class | 6:00PM - 7:00PM EST

Jim

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My family life was spent growing up in Hamburg, surrounded by friends I’ve known since playing Little League baseball, spending days at the beach, and passing nights playing our favorite Pearl Jam songs. It was a great place to make years full of memorable moments, ones I still carry with me every day.

Now, I have a family of my own. Settled in Clarence, we all like to get out and be a part of things, together. Whether out to a local concert, community event or farmers’ market, it’s great to make new memories with my wife and kids, all while feeling the same connectiveness that makes Western New York such a special place.

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Problematic Sabres fan, and discriminating chicken wing connoisseur. I’m a board member of Amherst High School Academies and Board Member/President of National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors - New York State.

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I want to meet Barbara Corcoran from Shark Tank. If you know her, could you please introduce us?

Unlike most of the educators at The Establishment, I am based out of Rochester, New York and I am stoked to help take this program “on the road” to educate individuals here in our community.

What do I love most about my job? Getting to build relationship with all sorts of people from different walks of life and helping them get a handle on their financial future.

I am proud to call Rochester home where I live with my wife Jen and our daughter, Francesca.

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Adventure seeker and self-proclaimed bourbon snob. Find me in summer enjoying some down time in the beautiful Finger Lakes.

It’s hard to consider your financial future now when you think time is on your side. But, there is no better time than now to get serious about your money. The most rewarding part of my job is knowing that the work that I do makes a dramatic impact on the lives of others.

This career keeps me busy; no two days are ever alike. In my free time I am actively involved with the Alzheimer’s Association here in Buffalo. I am an avid golfer, bowler, and Bills fan. In Western New York those are all seasonal things, so it tends to keep me busy all year round!

I am happy to call Williamsville home with my wife Jackie and our son, Jude who we recently welcomed into the world. Seeing the resurgence in the city, and the pride of my fellow Buffalonians has been an amazing experience. Buffalo is everything I could want from a city and more!

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Find me relaxing after a round of golf with a Vodka Gimlet. Committed to helping people plan for the future they want.