Today, we’d like to introduce you to Jen Swindler.
Hi Jen, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
In 2017, I was on the verge of a divorce. I was entirely financially dependent on my spouse then, but I knew that leaving the relationship was necessary for my future happiness and success. I was a struggling artist/designer and decided to make an abrupt career change. I ended up pursuing a degree in financial planning.
Over the past seven years, I’ve gained experience in several firms, obtained a few certificates, and earned a master’s in financial planning & analytics. I have started to carve out a couple of client niches – particularly divorce financial analysis & financial planning for self-employed creatives (my past experiences certainly led me to this!). In a very male-dominated, conservative, traditional industry, I’ve been able to work with people who need financial planning but haven’t connected with typical advisors.
I decided to leap this summer to start my financial advisory firm! I’m in the middle of getting the legal registration done in Utah. I’m looking forward to serving my clients in the way that I truly believe is best for them and being able to be something different in an otherwise quite homogenous field.
Let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
I do feel incredibly grateful and lucky that I’ve been scouted by a couple of firms without seeking out new employment, and I’ve fallen into some really good situations with minimal effort on my part. I feel that luck (the universe, perhaps?) has certainly played a part in making things go well for me when it seems they shouldn’t have. For example, my current employer simply forgot to have me sign a non-solicit agreement, which is fairly unheard of in this industry. It means that I am not going to be prohibited from contacting my former clients.
There have certainly been hiccups along the way – COVID, my own mental health struggles, and being a woman in a male-dominated field, to name a few. Being on the receiving end of misogyny and sexism was why I quit my first job in this industry and a significant part of why I decided to leave my job to start my own firm. In my first job, I was told that they only hired me, “frankly, because [I’m] female”. I’ve had to work harder to prove myself, but it’s helped me to believe in myself more.
As you know, we’re big fans of Money Illustrated. What can you tell our readers who might not be as familiar with the brand?
I provide comprehensive financial planning, advice, and investment management.
I also do divorce financial analysis to help divorcing couples make the best possible financial decisions for themselves. I have a strong emphasis on helping people understand their thoughts and feelings about money, as I believe these things can often have a significant impact on one’s financial decisions.
I typically work with individuals and couples in their 30s and 40s. My primary client areas of focus are divorcing couples, creatives, small-business owners, and W2 workers with equity compensation.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My siblings – each one of them reacted so positively to me telling them I’d be quitting my job and starting my own business. They made me believe in myself. They’ve been a lifelong support system.
My friend, Brie Pereboom. She has inspired me with her hard work, creativity, networking skills, and being the ultimate wingwoman.
My friend, Taylor Westergard, whose joy and positivity make running a successful business look like the most fun anyone could have. She has also cheered me on in my career and my decision to go solo.
My partner, Braden Shoemaker, has told me whenever I feel worried about failure that, he isn’t even a little bit worried, and he knows I’ll succeed. He has listened to my concerns 100 times and continues reassuring me that everything will be alright.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://money-illustrated.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/money_illustrated/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferswindler/
Image Credits
Brie Pereboom – Opal Hour Photography
