Ben Gajardo

Hi! I’m Jen, fellow human and creator of Money Illustrated. I'm so grateful you're here! My journey into financial planning began while I was working as a self-employed artist & graphic designer; learning to manage my own finances and variable freelance income is what sparked my interest in understanding money better. This quickly became more than a side hobby, and eventually resulted in my making a career change to pursue an undergraduate degree in financial planning. I later went on to complete a graduate degree in Financial Planning & Analytics. In addition, I obtained the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation, am an Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC®), and a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®). As a free-spirited, artsy feminist working in the financial planning industry over the years, I never quite fit into the old-school, male-dominated industry (very much in need of diversity and new perspectives). Eventually, I decided I needed to create the space I was searching for. I started Money Illustrated with the hope that I could bring my two worlds of art and financial planning together in order to create something different—an inclusive, progressive, and innovative approach that's both creative and human-centered. My goal is to always act in clients' best interest, while guiding toward financial success and educating on the intricacies of their financial situations. Overall, I want to help others feel empowered to live their dream lives. No matter what your financial background looks like, I’m here to offer a judgment-free approach that meets you where you are. Financial planning is a tool to help you build a life that feels like your own, focusing on your values, supporting your relationships, and prioritizing what truly matters most to you. Outside of personal finance, I love to hike in the nearby Rockies, tend to my plants, practice yoga, and paint. I live near Salt Lake City, Utah, with my wonderful partner, an exuberant dog, and two cuddly old cats.

Since 2013 I’ve worked for wealth management firms providing financial planning for retirees and those who are close to retirement. Frustrated with the restrictions that come from working within a corporation, I decided to launch Retirement Advice. At Retirement Advice, I am able to provide clients with more flexibility and personability while still being their one-stop shop for all their retirement planning needs. Using modern technology and a network of partners, I am able to give my clients cost savings and expert advice backed by research. My clients can depend on me to be their investment fiduciary, 100% committed to putting their interests first. I seek to empower all of my clients with the confidence to retire early, and to retire well.

Neilson Hullinger is a Financial Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, where he is part of The Hullinger Group, a team with nearly a century of advising experience. He works alongside veteran advisors to provide clients with tailored financial plans that are regularly adjusted to meet their goals. Neilson specializes in areas including family wealth management strategies, legacy planning, liquidity management, managing new wealth, personal retirement planning, philanthropic planning, portfolio management services, individual and corporate investment strategy, tax minimization, and retirement income. Neilson graduated from Utah State University with degrees in Finance and Economics. He holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP) designation as well as the Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) credential. Coming from a family with a strong history in financial advising, Neilson follows in the footsteps of his father, uncle, and grandfather, who have been with the firm since 1973. Outside of his professional role, Neilson is involved in Springville High Basketball and has completed missionary service. He enjoys spending time with his family, being the oldest of six siblings, and engages in activities such as boating, traveling, and sports including baseball, basketball, football, golf, hiking, ice hockey, camping, and fishing.

Tyson Green is a Planning Consultant at Fidelity Investments, where he has been working since 2024. He has held various roles within the company, including Investment Solution Representative III and II, Investment Solution Representative I, Retirement Representative, and Customer Relationship Advocate, demonstrating a progressive career in financial services. Tyson focuses on collaborating with individuals and families to develop financial plans that align with their goals. He aims to help clients feel confident and comfortable with their financial strategies. He holds insurance licenses in Arkansas and California. Outside of his professional work, Tyson enjoys running, snowboarding, and traveling.