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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Garrett Jensen is the Vice President and Financial Consultant at Fidelity Investments. In this role, he supports clients and their families in implementing and monitoring financial plans, with a focus on tax-efficient investing, gifting, estate planning considerations, and other areas of financial planning. He holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP4) designation and is licensed to provide insurance services in Arkansas and California. Garrett has been with Fidelity Investments since 2016, progressing through various roles including Financial Consultant, Planning Consultant, PAS Portfolio Specialist, and Workplace Planning Consultant. His career path reflects experience in portfolio management, workplace planning, and high net worth client services. Outside of his professional responsibilities, Garrett enjoys biking, golf, reading, and skiing.