Gregory JamesCFP®

Where did you grow up? Where do you live now?

I grew up on the shores of Lake Erie, one of the five great lakes, in Erie, Pennsylvania, a relatively small city. It was an area full of outdoor recreation. In the summer when I wasn’t working in a family building restoration business started by my grandfather, I spent time on the water sailing with friends. Being in the snow belt, there were plenty of winter activities also.  Skiing and snowmobiling are my favorites. After graduating from Pennsylvania State University, I moved to the beautiful city of Charlotte, NC.

What sparked your interest in financial planning?

I developed a passion for investing while a student at PSU majoring in accounting and finance. I had the good fortune to have an internship with Prudential-Bache Securities, at that time a large broker-dealer investment firm.

What fuels you every day in your work?

As a financial planner, I find immense satisfaction in helping people towards achieving their financial goals and improving their financial well-being. It brings me joy to work closely with my clients, understand their unique circumstances, and develop personalized financial plans that align with their needs and aspirations. I enjoy the process of analyzing financial data, creating strategies, and providing guidance on budgeting, investing, retirement planning, and more. Seeing my clients’ progress and witnessing the positive impact of sound financial planning on their lives is incredibly rewarding. Moreover, building long-term relationships with my clients is fulfilling as I get to witness their financial challenges and success over time. Being a financial planner allows me to utilize my financial experience to empower others and make a meaningful difference in their lives, which is why I thoroughly enjoy this profession.

What’s the one thing people say you’re best at?

People say I am a very good listener. I have a keen interest in learning about the lives of people I meet. Working with clients and learning about all the different businesses and careers they have or retired from is intriguing.

When you retire you’re going to…?

When I retire, I envision spending my days pursuing my passions for sailing, traveling, and socializing with my wife and friends. I would love to embark on extended sailing adventures, discovering hidden gems around the world and immersing myself in different cultures. Along with sailing, I look forward to traveling to various destinations, exploring different cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. I want to create cherished memories with my family and friends, sharing laughter, stories, and experiences over meals or by simply spending quality time together.