Continuing our “Ask Away” Advisor Spotlight Series!
In our featured “Ask Away” Advisor Spotlight Series, learn more about some exceptional LPL Financial advisors partnering with Financial Resources Group — incredible minds with interesting backgrounds. Discover their distinct insights, strategies, and personal stories that have fueled their success.
Each month, we’ll cast a spotlight on a different advisory team, unveiling what makes them stand out in the competitive financial services landscape.
The series continues with Eastman Credit Union’s Asset Management Team . Get financial insights from the professionals with this Q&A and be sure to watch the short video below where the team personally introduces themselves!
Q: In your opinion, what’s the best piece of financial advice you’ve ever given a client?
Joanne:
The best financial advice I’ve ever given a client is to think beyond their immediate needs and plan for future generations. At ECU Asset Management, we work with families to create comprehensive plans that not only address their retirement, but also a legacy for their children and grandchildren. By fostering collaboration between our team and our clients’ families, we create lasting financial foundations.
Matt:
The best advice I’ve given is to avoid making emotional decisions when the market gets turbulent. I had a client who was ready to sell everything during a market downturn, fearing they’d lose it all. I encourage them to stay the course and remind them of their long-term goals. It’s all about sticking to the plan and not letting fear dictate your financial moves.
Angela:
For me, it’s helping clients see the importance of budgeting and we set up opportunities to educate and empower younger generations – to set them up for success. I have worked with younger clients who were struggling with debt, and I helped them create a realistic spending plan. Now they’re saving for their first home.
Q: What trends in financial planning do you think are most important right now?
Joanne:
One of the most critical trends in financial planning is the growing importance of multi-generational wealth planning. Clients aren’t just planning for their own retirements—they’re thinking about their children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren. With over 30 years of experience, I’ve seen how a well-thought-out plan can build a legacy that spans generations. Another key trend is the increasing need for personalized, adaptable strategies that account for life’s inevitable changes, whether it’s market volatility, changes in tax laws, or family dynamics.
Matt:
A significant trend I’m seeing is the focus on customized, holistic financial strategies. Clients are looking for strategies that not only address their immediate goals but also align with their long-term vision. Another important trend is the integration of technology in financial planning—clients expect real-time access to their portfolios and clear, data-driven insights. As a Certified Financial Planner®, I prioritize combining technology with personal service to help clients navigate these shifts confidently.
Angela:
The trend I find most important is the emphasis on financial education and empowerment, especially for younger generations. More families are including their children and grandchildren in their financial planning conversations, which creates opportunities to teach sound financial principles early. Another key trend is the shift toward values-based investing, where clients want their investments to reflect their personal and social priorities. At ECU Asset Management, we focus on creating strategies that are not only financially sound but also meaningful to our clients.
Q: What’s one mistake people make with their finances, and how can they avoid it?
Joanne:
One of the biggest mistakes I’ve seen in my 30+ years of experience is failing to plan for the unexpected. Many people focus on short-term goals without thinking about how to guard their financial future from unexpected events, like a market downturn or health crisis. The key to avoiding this is having a comprehensive plan that not only addresses your current needs but also builds in contingency strategies for the future. At ECU Asset Management, we work with our clients to create plans that are adaptable and resilient, helping to ensure they are prepared for whatever life throws their way.
Matt:
A common financial mistake people make is not revisiting their financial plans regularly. Life changes—whether it’s a career move, a new family member, or changes in the economy—can make old plans outdated. To avoid this, it’s essential to have periodic check-ins with your financial advisor to ensure your plan evolves with your needs. I believe in customizing strategies and staying proactive, so our clients’ plans remain aligned with their goals no matter what changes come their way.
Angela:
One mistake I often see is people procrastinating when it comes to starting their financial planning journey. They might think they’ll begin ‘once they’re earning more’ or ‘when things settle down.’ The truth is, the earlier you start, the more opportunities you have to potentially grow and protect your wealth. The way to avoid this mistake is to take the first step—no matter how small—toward creating a financial plan. At ECU Asset Management, we’re here to make the process approachable and ensure you feel confident every step of the way.
Q: What’s one thing you wish everyone knew about financial planning?
Joanne:
I wish everyone understood that financial planning isn’t just about numbers—it’s about building a legacy. It’s a process that ensures your values and goals are passed down to future generations. At ECU Asset Management, we focus on creating a plan that not only addresses today’s needs but also positions families to thrive for years to come. Financial planning is about empowering families to work toward their dreams with confidence and continuity.
Matt:
I wish people knew how much assurance financial planning can provide when done as a team effort. It’s not just about creating a strategy; it’s about having the ongoing support and guidance to adapt as life changes. At ECU Asset Management, we combine the experience of multiple advisors to give clients personalized, long-term support. Financial planning is a journey, and having a dedicated team makes all the difference.
Angela:
“The one thing I wish everyone knew is that financial planning is a lifelong, dynamic process. It’s not something you do once and set aside; it evolves with your life, your family, and your goals. Financial planning adapts to changes like a new career, children, or even unexpected challenges. Our team helps clients navigate these changes, providing consistent guidance and ensuring their plans stay aligned with what matters most to them.”
Q: Why is teamwork critical in helping clients build a financial legacy?
Joanne:
With over 30 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand that no single person can address every facet of a client’s financial journey. Teamwork allows us to combine diverse experience and perspectives, ensuring that every plan we create is comprehensive and tailored to the individual. By collaborating as a team, we help clients build financial legacies that are not just effective for today but stand the test of time for future generations.
Matt:
Teamwork is critical because financial planning isn’t one-size-fits-all. Each client has unique goals, challenges, and opportunities, and it takes a team of professionals with different skills to address all aspects of their financial life. At ECU Asset Management, we work together to ensure no detail is overlooked, from investment strategies to legacy planning. This collaboration is what allows us to truly help our clients pursue their dreams.
Angela:
Building a financial legacy involves much more than numbers—it’s about understanding our clients’ stories, values, and dreams. Teamwork allows us to combine our collective knowledge and align it with each client’s unique vision. By working as a cohesive team, we ensure every client feels supported and confident that their legacy will last for generations to come.
with fellow LPL Advisor, Scott Foster.
Q. How does the relationship with LPL Financial and Financial Resources Group enhance your services?
Joanne:
Our partnership with LPL Financial and Financial Resources Group allows us to deliver a level of service and experience that wouldn’t be possible on our own. LPL provides us with robust tools and technology, while Financial Resources Group offers the strategic support we need to enhance our client offerings. Together, these strategic partnerships enable us to stay focused on what matters most—helping our clients build and preserve their financial legacies.
Matt:
By aligning with LPL Financial and Financial Resources Group, we gain access to a network of resources, research, and support that enhances our ability to serve our clients. These relationships ensure we’re always up to date with the latest financial strategies and solutions, allowing us to offer customized advice and solutions that align with our clients’ unique goals.
Angela:
Our strategic partnerships with LPL Financial and Financial Resources Group are key to delivering a seamless and comprehensive client experience. LPL’s robust platform allows us to access top-tier financial tools and research, while Financial Resources Group provides the business support and guidance we need to continually improve our services. Together, these partnerships strengthen our team and help us pursue the best possible financial outcomes for our clients.
Meet the ECU Asset Management team in this brief video below!
Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC. Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. Eastman Credit Union and ECU Asset Management (ECUAM) are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using ECUAM, and may also be employees of Eastman Credit Union. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of Eastman Credit Union or ECUAM. Eastman Credit Union, Financial Resources Group and LPL Financial are separate entities.
Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:
| Not Insured by NCUA or Any Other Government Agency | Not Credit Union Guaranteed | Not Credit Union Deposits or Obligations | May Lose Value |
The opinions voiced are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Any performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly.
