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.

My name is Ben Gajardo, CFP®, and I am a dedicated Certified Financial Planner™ professional. With a profound commitment to helping individuals realize their financial dreams, I established Gajardo Wealth Management to address the unique financial planning needs of small business owners, medical professionals, and professors. Gajardo Wealth Management is located in American Fork, Utah, but we serve clients nationwide virtually. We pride ourselves on offering personalized and comprehensive financial planning services. Our mission is to provide strategic financial guidance that is tailored to the distinct needs and aspirations of our clients. As a fee-only fiduciary firm, we are committed to prioritizing your best interests above all else, ensuring that our recommendations are always aligned with your goals. At Gajardo Wealth Management, we understand that financial planning is not just about managing money; it's about empowering you to live the life you envision. We offer a wide range of services including investment management, retirement planning, tax planning, estate planning, and more. Whether you're a small business owner looking to grow and protect your enterprise, a medical professional navigating the complexities of your financial landscape, or a professor planning for a secure retirement, we are here to help. Our approach is rooted in a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that our clients face. We take the time to get to know you, your values, and your long-term objectives. This personalized approach allows us to create tailored financial plans that not only address your current needs but also position you for future success. As a CFP® professional, I bring a high level of expertise and ethical standards to every client relationship. My role is not just to provide financial advice, but to act as a trusted partner in your financial journey. I believe in transparent communication, ongoing education, and a collaborative approach to financial planning. This ensures that you are always informed and confident in the decisions we make together. If you’re ready to take the next step towards financial security and achieving your life’s goals, I invite you to schedule an introductory meeting with us. Let’s work together to build a brighter financial future for you and your family.

As a Principal and Financial Planner at Outpost Advisors, Mark spends his time creating unique financial plans that power our clients’ family visions and dreams for life. Mark is raising three girls in Salt Lake City, Utah with his wife Amelia, who practices medicine as an Obstetrician and Gynecologist. After graduating from Princeton University, Mark began his career at the International Monetary Fund teaching central bankers how to budget (whilst managing interest rates, monetary policy and political instability). In his free time he taught classes in financial literacy to DC-area families dealing with poverty. From there, he moved on to mortgage finance giant Freddie Mac, where he helped to execute the largest preferred equity capital raise in US history. Next, he spent a year at Jones Lang Lasalle managing a $750M asset portfolio for the Army, before relocating to Utah where he helped to build the outdoor retailer Backcountry.  Before leaving to found Outpost Advisors Mark spent 5 years as a leader at ExpertVoice, a technology startup funded by Bain Capital and Sorenson Capital. Mark has had the great joy of leading individuals and families in budgeting, family visioneering and financial stewardship for several years – both at work and through volunteer roles at church. Mark can also often be found blogging about all of these at the website Abraham’s Wallet. Mark holds an MBA from The George Washington University with a focus on finance. When he’s not playing with spreadsheets, Mark enjoys everything on offer in the mountains of Utah, whether it’s skiing, trail running, hunting, climbing or riding bikes with his family.

We focus on helping Christian outdoor focused individuals and churches

Cristopher Garff is Vice President and Financial Consultant at Fidelity Investments, a position he has held since 2010. He collaborates with high net worth households to understand their unique goals and needs, assisting clients in creating individualized and comprehensive financial plans. Cristopher has been with Fidelity Investments since 1999, holding various roles including Senior Relationship Officer, Relationship Officer, Client Management Representative, Retirement Income Planning Consultant, Investment Representative, Financial Representative, Service Trader, and Customer Service Representative. This extensive experience has provided him with a broad understanding of financial services and client management.

Jason Pierce is a Wealth Management Advisor and partner of a wealth management group in the Philadelphia area at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, where he has worked since 2014. He works with affluent individuals and families to address their financial goals and streamline their wealth management services. Jason specializes in family wealth management strategies, managing new wealth, personal retirement planning, portfolio management services, and small business strategies. Jason holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Scranton and has earned the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation as well as the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP) professional certification. His approach to wealth management is planning-based and process-oriented, emphasizing a full-service and holistic role as a trusted advisor to his clients. He is committed to providing high levels of service and attention to detail, supported by a cohesive team that helps address clients' specific financial goals and concerns. Outside of his professional responsibilities, Jason is involved with the Chestnut Hill Community Association. He lives in Philadelphia with his wife, Ellen, and their children. Jason participates in coaching high school and grade school basketball, aiming to share his passion for sports with the next generation. In his free time, he enjoys playing squash, basketball, and golf.

Bryan Bales is a Financial Consultant currently working at Fidelity Investments, where he has been since 2016. Prior to his current role, he served as a Portfolio Specialist at Fidelity Investments from 2017 to 2021 and as an Investment Solutions Representative from 2016 to 2017. Before joining Fidelity, Bryan worked as a Wealth Management Advisor at TIAA from 2014 to 2016. In his role as a Financial Consultant, Bryan supports and provides guidance to high net worth clients. He focuses on assisting clients in building long-term financial plans and discussing appropriate investment options aimed at achieving lifetime financial freedom. Bryan holds insurance licenses in Arkansas and California. Outside of his professional work, Bryan enjoys biking, family activities, hiking, outdoor adventures, and running.

Zachary Bown currently serves as a Branch Leader at Fidelity Investments, a position he has held since 2026. Prior to this role, he gained experience as a Financial Consultant from 2024 to 2026, and held several other positions within Fidelity Investments including Investment Solutions Consultant, Annuity Planning Consultant, and Investment Solutions Representative. In his roles, Zachary focuses on assisting clients in pursuing their long-term financial well-being. As Branch Manager, he aims to empower and encourage associates to maximize their talents with integrity, confidence, and competence to support clients effectively. He holds insurance licenses in Arkansas and California. Outside of his professional responsibilities, Zachary has personal interests that include comedy, being a foodie, outdoor adventures, parenthood, and traveling.

Andrew Greaves is a Financial Consultant currently working at Fidelity Investments since 2024. He has held various roles in the financial industry, including Financial Adviser at Morgan Stanley from 2023 to 2024, and Financial Consultant at E*Trade from 2019 to 2023. His experience also includes positions at Fidelity Investments as a Retirement Relationship Manager from 2016 to 2019, Investments Solutions Representative from 2015 to 2016, and working with high net worth clients from 2012 to 2015. Andrew holds insurance licenses in Arkansas and California. He is a Certified Financial Planner™, focusing on developing personal financial strategies that align with each client's unique goals. His practice is guided by a commitment to integrity and ethical conduct, aiming to earn the trust and confidence of his clients. Outside of his professional life, Andrew enjoys baseball, camping, family activities, golf, movies, and skiing.