BFSG University

Webinars Featuring Our Team of Experts.

As we near the end of 2023, with even more uncertainty surrounding the global economy than when we began the summer, we are pleased to bring you a series that focuses on the basics. We have our annual year-end tax planning session, then back to the basics with budgeting and debt management. We then move to a look at less traditional retirement options, then conclude with the basics of investing. We look forward to seeing you! We always suggest you find and subscribe to BFSG University on YouTube to ensure you never miss the latest educational videos and presentations.

Fall Webinar Series (2023) – All replays are available on YouTube in our BFSG University playlist.

October 26, 2023 REPLAY: Year-End Tax Planning
November 2, 2023 REPLAY: Budgeting, Debt Management, & Student Loans
November 9, 2023 REPLAY: Adventures in Retirement: Embracing Unconventional Golden Years
November 16, 2023 REPLAY: A Beginner’s Guide to Investing (Investing 101)

Financial wellness on your own time

Watch the replays from our most recent past financial planning and retirement planning webinar series to help improve your retirement readiness and overall financial health (each is approximately 30-60 minutes, plus a recorded Q&A):

Financial Literacy (The Basics)

How to Afford the College of Your Dreams

Retirement Plan Basics

Connecting the Dots to Your Financial Future (Part 1)

Connecting the Dots to Your Financial Future (Part 2)

A Definitive Guide for Education Planning

Retirement Planning

Retirement Q&A – Ask the Experts

The Case for Roth Contributions

Healthcare in Retirement

The Future of Retirement in America

Distributions Strategies in Retirement

Social Security & Medicare

Medicare – Planning for Healthcare in Retirement

Financial Planning

The 7 Pillars of Financial Planning

Charitable Gifting Strategies

Estate & Legacy Planning

Year-End Tax Planning

Planning for Loved Ones

Tax Planning: Understanding President Biden’s Tax Proposals (2021)

Health & Wellness

Authentic Happiness

The Art of Health Living

Finding Your Retirement Mindset

Ask the Alzheimer’s Expert: Q&A Session

Investment Planning

Navigating Volatile Markets

Behavioral Finance

Women & Wealth

Dr. Steve’s Conference Calls

January 2024 Conference Call

October 2023 Conference Call

May 2023 Conference Call

BFSG University Shorts collection gives you access to financial and retirement planning content in an brief digestible format to help you improve your financial wellness:

Financial Planning Shorts

Roth Accounts Explained

Social Security: 5 Key Considerations

Critical Ages of Retirement Planning

Social Security: Should I Take it Early?

The Least Understood Risk to Retirement: Sequence Risk

Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)

Estate Planning Basics

Investment Planning Shorts

Navigating Volatile Markets

Behavioral Investing Series: Anchoring Bias

Behavioral Investing Series: Recency Bias

Behavioral Investing Series: Confirmation Bias

Behavioral Investing Series: Herding Bias

Behavioral Investing Series: Ambiguity Aversion

Behavioral Investing Series: Loss Aversion

Behavioral Investing Series: Putting It All Together

Retirement Plan Shorts

Retirement Plan Loans

SECURE Act 2.0: Roth for Catch Ups?

The Rule of 55

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California Office (Headquarters)
Wealth Management & Institutional Services
2040 Main Street, Suite 720, Irvine, CA 92614

(888) 726-9378

Arizona Office
Wealth Management
1643 E. Bethany Home Road, Phoenix, AZ 85016

(602) 997-8882

Financial Services Group BBB Business Review

Melissa Ronnie

Client Service Specialist

Melissa joined the BFSG team as the Client Service Specialist in 2023. She focuses on the client relationship experience and provides clients with account assistance. Prior to joining BFSG, Melissa worked for a local IT company as their Customer Service Manager.

Melissa is originally from Wisconsin and graduated from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
If I can change my situation, change it. If I can’t change my situation, change my attitude.

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about…
My family and my furbabies!

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
Being part of a team that’s able to help our clients achieve their goals.

What’s your favorite travel destination?
Anyplace with a beach but more specifically – Monterey/Carmel area.

Fernando Leonardo

Investment Research Analyst

Fernando joined Benefit Financial Services Group in March 2023 and currently serves as an Investment Research Analyst. His responsibilities include investment and retirement plan research, plan reporting, and cost analysis. He provides overall support to our Consultants and Client Services Managers.

Fernando graduated from California State University of Fullerton with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. While enrolled, Fernando was an Analyst of the Student Managed Investment Fund and part of the Finance Associates Club.

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
Music. My passion is listening and creating music in my spare time. I enjoy all music, but mostly listen to R&B and Hip-Hop.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
The most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member is the culture and the amount of valuable knowledge to absorb.

The one word or phrase that best describes me is:
Entertaining

Olivia Waller

Administrative Assistant

Olivia joined Benefit Financial Services Group in 2023 as an Administrative Assistant. With three years of experience as administrative support and prior custom service support experience, she helps ensure our Phoenix office and team members have everything they need to service and support our wealth management clients. Prior to joining the firm, she worked at Healthcare Solutions and CenturyLink.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
Baking.

I enjoy volunteering at:
Church.

Katie DeSantis

Executive Assistant

Bio text needed.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
My personal mantra is “If I can not do great things, I can do small things in a great way.” -Martin Luther King JR.

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
Outside of my professional career I am passionate about outside activities with my family and dogs.

What’s your favorite travel destination?
My favorite travel destination is Hawaii.

The one word or phrase that best describes me is:
A phrase that best described me is team player and reliable.

If you were a superhero, what superpower would you have?
If I were a superhero, my power would be to be able to grant unlimited wishes or to be able to speak any language.

Elsie Khoury

Administrative Assistant

Elsie joined Benefit Financial Services Group in April 2012 as an Administrative Assistant. Prior to joining the firm, she worked for 3 years as a talent recruiter in the education industry. Elsie holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Sales from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. With more than 7 years of experience in customer service and administrative support, she helps ensure that the office operates smoothly and efficiently.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
Start each day with a positive thought and a grateful heart.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
Knowing that my opinion matters and everyone works very well together.

What’s your favorite travel destination?
Hawaii.

Sandi Stratford

Client Service Specialist

As the Client Service Specialist, Sandi focuses on the client relationship experience and provides portfolio administration, which includes providing clients with account assistance, such as requests for funds, balances, standing instructions and any other account administrative services. She has worked in the financial industry since 1995 and previously worked at Financial & Estate Planning International.

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
Outside of my professional career I am passionate about spending time with my kids and three granddaughters.

What drew you to the wealth management industry?
I started working for a broker dealer 20 years ago. I find the financial industry a challenging and interesting industry. There's always something new to learn.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
The most rewarding part of being a BFSG team member is engaging with and working with clients.

What’s your favorite travel destination?
My favorite travel destination is Austria and Switzerland.

Laura Pistoresi

Client Service Manager

Laura joined Benefit Financial Services Group in 2018. As a Client Service Manager she focuses on the client relationship experience and continuing our tradition of striving to exceed client expectations.

Laura graduated from California State University, Stanislaus with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Communications. Prior to joining our team, Laura was involved in the insurance industry, with years of experience in both the health and life insurance markets. Her experience in management and natural connection to people made her the ideal fit as our Client Service Manager.

What’s your favorite travel destination?
My favorite travel destination is Idaho.

I enjoy volunteering at:
I am actively involved in PTA and supporting my local schools.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given and how might this apply to your role here at BFSG?
The best piece of advice I have ever been given is to treat everyone equally. This is my philosophy with our clients. Every client is important and deserves the best client experience we can provide!

If you were a superhero, what superpower would you have?
If I were a superhero, my power would be to be able to travel in warp speed… like The Flash!

Kirk Masci

Portfolio Manager

Kirk is an Investment Analyst at Benefit Financial Services Group. He is responsible for conducting investment research using fundamental and technical analysis. He previously held a position at Bank of America Merrill Lynch, where he was a Financial Solutions Advisor helping clients plan for retirement and helping them achieve their general investing goals. His passion is conducting equity research to potentially find undervalued securities and implement these findings into portfolio construction.

Kirk received a Bachelor of Science from the University of Arizona in Business Administration with an emphasis on Finance. After graduating, Kirk went on to earn his Master’s degree in Finance from the University of Arizona. He is currently a Level II candidate in the CFA^®program.

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
I am passionate about working out, cooking/food, and cars.

What drew you to the wealth management industry?
My dad is a financial advisor, so I grew up watching the markets. Went to undergrad and grad school for finance. I’m passionate about trading and charts. Lastly, learned at a young age the best thing to do is let your money work for you.

What’s your favorite travel destination?
Caribbean

Thomas Kyle

Investment Research Analyst

Bio text needed.

====== PLACEHOLDER Q&A =======

What is your personal motto or mantra?
Always give it 100%

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
I enjoy working with our knowledgeable and dedicated team members.

I enjoy volunteering at:
Youth sports or any opportunity to help children.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given and how might this apply to your role here at BFSG?
The best advice I have ever been given is don’t repeat your mistakes twice.

Xiaomei Huang, MBA, MS

Securities and Financial Analyst

As a Securities and Financial Analyst, Xiaomei’s current responsibilities include analyzing securities using fundamental research. Prior to joining Benefit Financial Services Group, she worked in the media and she approaches security analysis like how a journalist chases a story.

Xiaomei holds her MBA degree from Xiamen University and her Master of Science degree from University of Strathclyde. She graduated with Distinction from UCLA Extension in Finance. She is also pursuing her CFA® designation.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
Hard Work Pays Off.

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
Hiking and psychology.

What drew you to the wealth management industry?
The best way to get to know the business world from the perspective of an investment researcher.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
A perfect adjustable height desk.

What’s your favorite travel destination?
Europe.

I enjoy volunteering at:
Church and school.

The one word or phrase that best describes me is:
Reliable.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given and how might this apply to your role here at BFSG?
Trust in God and the world will give a hand.

If you were a superhero, what superpower would you have?
Time machine.

Erin Schneider

Investment Research Analyst

Erin joined Benefit Financial Services Group in June 2021 as an Investment Research Analyst. Her responsibilities include investment and retirement plan research, plan reporting, and cost analysis. She provides overall support to our Consultants and Client Services Managers.

Erin graduated from Bentley University in Waltham, Massachusetts with a bachelor’s degree in Finance and a concentration in Personal Financial Planning. While there she was captain and cofounder of the Women’s Club Ice Hockey team tasked with running the organization and providing leadership.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
My personal mantra is everything happens for a reason.

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
Outside of my professional career I am passionate about my dog and photography.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
The most rewarding part of being a BFSG team member is helping our clients while working with the most caring and fun group of people.

The one word or phrase that best describes me is:
One word that best describes me is outgoing.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given and how might this apply to your role here at BFSG?
The best piece of advice I have ever been given is to never be afraid to ask questions. I am a new team member at BFSG and find it so important to ask any and all questions so I can learn and grow in my position.

Brent Chou

Investment Research Analyst

Brent joined Benefit Financial Services Group in 2020 and currently serves as an Investment Research Associate. His responsibilities include investment and retirement plan research, plan reporting, and cost analysis. Prior to joining BFSG, Brent worked as a Derivatives Specialist at State Street.

Brent graduated Cum Laude from the University of the Pacific with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. While enrolled, Brent was Chief Investment Officer of the school’s investment fund and helped manage and allocate the fund’s $3.7M in assets.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
Treat others the way you want to be treated.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
The most rewarding part of being at BFSG is the ability to have your voice heard no matter what position you hold.

What’s your favorite travel destination?
My favorite travel destination is Japan.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given and how might this apply to your role here at BFSG?
The best piece of advice that I heard was "Failure is a key component to success." You learn the most from failing and you use these building blocks to eventually succeed.

If you were a superhero, what superpower would you have?
Teleportation.

Henry VanBuskirk, CFP®

Wealth Manager

Schedule time with me

Henry is a Wealth Manager where his main responsibilities are constructing and monitoring financial plans pursuant to each client’s unique goals as well as being a member of the investment committee for BFSG. Prior to joining BFSG, Henry worked for a private wealth management firm as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and Investment Analyst. Henry received his Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics from the University of California, Santa Cruz and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from California Lutheran University. Henry is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™professional.

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
Playing music and working on music production. I play guitar, bass, drums, piano, and tuba. While music is a passion of mine, I didn’t want to pursue it as a career since it would just feel like a job instead of a hobby. I instead decided to listen to the left side of my brain and follow my other passion of helping people sort out their personal finances and working through how to fund their goals.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
The most rewarding thing about being a part of BFSG is seeing clients get excited after a financial plan is completed since they see how they can meet and exceed their short-term or long-term financial goals. Here are some paraphrased client reactions to their financial plans I’ve presented:

Wait? You mean I can retire? I honestly had no idea when or if I could retire.
I’m glad to know that my family will be okay regardless of my current health.
I knew that life insurance policy was bad, but I just wanted you to double-check. It’s good to know that we have a plan in place to deal with it and have my money working for me and my heirs more efficiently.

The cherry on top is we do all of the work as fiduciaries, meaning that we always put the client’s best interests ahead of our own. As cheesy as it may sound, the right thing to do isn’t always the easiest thing to do, but the right thing lets me sleep well at night.

What’s your favorite travel destination?
My wife is Taiwanese, and it is fun to go back there when we can since we still have family in Taipei. Traveling to other countries is a great way to learn about people and how they live their lives. While no country is perfect, getting a different perspective on life is a good way to test your own way of life. Some highlights of Taiwan are the various night markets, Taipei 101, and the National Palace Museum.

Antonia Lipovac

Client Service Manager

Antonia joined Benefit Financial Services Group in 2020 and currently serves as a Client Service Manager for a number of corporate and public clients. Prior to joining BFSG, Antonia worked for a private wealth management firm as a Financial Advisor Associate.

Antonia graduated from the Mihaylo College of Business and Economics at California State University, Fullerton with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. She is an Investment Advisor Representative of BFSG, LLC.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
The remarkable thing is we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for the day.

What drew you to the retirement plan industry?
Helping others. Whether it be helping a friend or helping a stranger, I have always had a passion for helping others through knowledge.

What’s your favorite travel destination?
Croatia. I travel here to visit most of my family and enjoy the different lifestyle that the people embrace. It's a nice reminder that different cultures exist across the globe and to be grateful for what you have.

I enjoy volunteering at:
The Anaheim YMCA, where I teach gymnastics classes to kids ranging from 18 months - 17 years.

Aksana Munoz, QKA

Lead Client Service Manager | Plan Compliance Specialist

Aksana joined Benefit Financial Services Group in 2013 and currently serves as a Lead Client Service Manager and Plan Compliance Specialist for a number of corporate and public clients. Her previous experience includes risk analysis of daily executed energy trades for Exelon Corporation, as well as providing assistance for a business development team at JP Morgan Chase, Investment Bank.

Aksana graduated from Drexel University, Philadelphia, in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a concentration in Finance. She currently holds the ASPPA Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA) designation and is an Investment Advisor Representative of BFSG, LLC.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
Every moment in life is precious - enjoy it.

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
All things outdoors -nature, running, hiking, as well as reading!

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given and how might this apply to your role here at BFSG?
Work hard and be nice to people.

Robert Verdugo, CMFC®, APMA®, CMT®

Financial Analyst, Senior Trader

As a Financial Analyst, Robert assists in the execution of trades, account analysis, and performance reporting. He has previously worked for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, LLP in their finance department.

Robert graduated from the University of California, Irvine with a bachelor’s degree in Business Economics. He currently holds the Chartered Mutual Fund Counselor ℠ and Accredited Portfolio Management Advisor℠ designations from the College for Financial Planning. He was awarded the Chartered Market Technician^® designation in 2022.

What drew you to the wealth management industry?
The ability of helping people realize and achieve their goals and aspirations. The daily battle between the bulls and the bears are a close second.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
I enjoy being a part of a team that values your input and appreciates the work we put in.

If you were a superhero, what superpower would you have?
Telekinesis.

Justin Nardo, MBA, CFP®

Senior Relationship Manager

Justin rejoined the firm in 2019 and is responsible for the overall client experience and financial planning. He has assisted high net worth individuals and families with financial planning and wealth management at TIAA, Fidelity, and Vanguard.

Justin is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and holds his MBA and undergraduate degrees from Arizona State University. He is an Operation Iraqi Freedom Veteran and served 8 years in the Army, Army Reserves, and Arizona National Guard.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
The relationships I get to build with my clients. In bigger institutions, you don’t always have the ability to track your clients’ goals and see their individual success.

The one word or phrase that best describes me is:
Resilient.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given and how might this apply to your role here at BFSG?
The best advice I received was during my service in the Army: "Do what’s right, legally and morally."

Keith Johnson, CFP®

Senior Education Specialist | Financial Planner

Schedule time with me

Keith is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional with 24 years of financial sector experience. He has extensive experience conducting financial planning workshops, seminars and has acted as key-note speaker at several national conferences. As a Senior Education Specialist, Keith takes an active role in educating clients to help grow, manage, and protect their wealth. Among conducting educational workshops, Keith’s expertise includes transitioning clients into retirement, succession planning, and assisting clients in transition.

Additionally, for more than 10 years Keith was part of UCLA’s Life-Long Learning Program as an instructor of Personal Financial Planning for one of the the University’s fastest growing segments, UCLA Extension. Keith is an Investment Advisor Representative of BFSG, LLC.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.

I enjoy volunteering at:
The Ironman Group.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given and how might this apply to your role here at BFSG?
“Do what makes you happy”. Every single day I talk with folks who have worked their entire lives and are in a great financial position to retire. However, they have no clue what they’re going to do with the next chapter of their lives. Having a vision or purpose for retirement is just as important as the financial side when planning for retirement. Simply asking the question “what makes you happy?” is one of the most important questions I can ask as an advisor.

Mark L. Blom, CFP®

Managing Director, Senior Wealth Manager

Schedule time with me

Mark is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and his main responsibilities include managing and monitoring client portfolios, researching and monitoring our mutual fund investments, financial planning and reviewing portfolios with clients. Prior to joining our team, Mark was involved in portfolio and wealth management at Charles Schwab & Co. and Clarity Financial, LLC.

Mark earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Central College.

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
I am passionate about living life and fully engaging in many activities; tennis, pickleball, working out, family, yard work, photography, and football.

What drew you to the wealth management industry?
What drew me into wealth management was being able to work in an industry that centered on investing and having your money working for you.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
The teamwork, collaboration, and being around great people.

The one word or phrase that best describes me is:
The word that best describes me would be Disciplined.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given and how might this apply to your role here at BFSG?
Work hard and do the right thing even when no one is watching.

Braden Priest, CFA®

Retirement Plan Consultant

Braden joined Benefit Financial Services Group in 2015 and is currently a Retirement Plan & Investment Consultant to a number of corporate and public clients. His current responsibilities include serving as the Client Service Manager to a number of public and private retirement plan clients. He began his career at Aon Hewitt, administering client retirement plans in the Large Market Division.

Braden graduated from San Diego State University with a bachelor’s degree in Finance. In 2019, Braden earned the right to use the Chartered Financial Analyst® designation. He is an Investment Advisor Representative of BFSG, LLC.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
It’s a great day to be alive!

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
Traveling. I’d love to one day step foot on each of the seven continents and travel to 50 countries.

What’s your favorite travel destination?
Iceland - there's so much to explore. While traveling with my wife, one minute felt like a scene from Jurassic Park and the next minute seemed like we were on Mars.

Kyle Nixon

Operations & Systems Manager

Kyle is responsible for all of our back office operations including our portfolio management and performance reporting system, accounting, budgeting, meeting all of our technology and computer needs, and anything else needed in order to keep our practice running smoothly, using all of the systems and information available to us.

Kyle has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from California State University, Fullerton. He is also a notary public.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
Working with a great team that is passionate about helping our clients.

What’s your favorite travel destination?
San Diego, excellent weather and so much to do, it is hard to beat.

The one word or phrase that best describes me is:
Patient.

Arash Navi, CPA, CFP® , AWMA®

Controller | Wealth Manager

Schedule time with me

As the Controller, Arash oversees the firm’s accounting functions, including monthly GAAP financial reporting, budgeting and forecasting. He works closely with the Chief Compliance Officer to meet SEC and Sarbanes-Oxley regulatory requirements.

Arash is also a Wealth Manager at BFSG. His responsibilities include analyzing securities and reviewing portfolios with clients. Arash works with clients to help them realize their short and long-term goals by delivering personalized financial plans and retirement analysis.

Arash received a Bachelor of Science in Economics with Distinction from the University of Victoria. He is licensed as a Certified Public Accountant, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, and earned his Accredited Wealth Management Advisor℠ designation from the College for Financial Planning.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
Steady, consistent progress leads to eventual breakthrough

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
I enjoy learning and being outdoors! Exploring new restaurants and experimenting in the kitchen. Weekends you can find me riding my motorcycle, taking classes, visiting nearby beaches, or enjoying some soccer…Go Chelsea!

The one word or phrase that best describes me is:
Disciplined

Paul Horn, CFP® , CPWA®

Director of Financial Planning

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As a Senior Financial Planner & Wealth Manager, Paul takes an active role in educating clients to help them grow, manage and protect their wealth. Paul assists clients in various aspects of wealth management including clients in transition, retirement planning, succession planning for business owners and planning for executives. Paul is also a member of our investment committee.

Paul is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and a Certified Private Wealth Advisor™. Paul holds a Master of Science degree in Portfolio Management and Security Analysis from Creighton University. Paul joined the firm in 2019.

What drew you to the wealth management industry?
I was a social worker in a past life and love to help people. I had a mentor who was an advisor so it exposed me to the industry and combined my love of learning, math and helping people.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
Working in an environment where people truly have the best interest of the clients and employees above all else.

I enjoy volunteering at:
I actively volunteer and support my church.

The one word or phrase that best describes me is:
The one word that would describe me would be passionate.

Nora Rascon-Brooks, FPQP™

Senior Operations Manager | Portfolio Administrator

As the Senior Operations Manager, Nora handles the wealth management division’s internal organization, including financial management, and organizational effectiveness to create an outstanding client service environment. She also assists with portfolio administration, which includes providing clients with account assistance, such as requests for funds, balances, standing instructions and any other account administrative services. With 15 years of experience, she previously worked in technology and architectural environments.

She earned the Financial Paraplanner Qualified Professional™ designation from the College for Financial Planning.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
We are stronger when we listen, and smarter when we share.

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
advocating for those without a voice such as animals.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
Hearing the positive feedback from our clients as a result of working in a collaborative environment where we all strive to provide the highest level of customer satisfaction through excellent service.

Darren Stewart, JD

Principal | Senior Retirement Plan Consultant

Darren joined Benefit Financial Services Group in 2006 and currently serves as the primary Investment Consultant to a number of corporate and public clients. His legal background is instrumental in the review of contracts and service agreements on behalf of BFSG’s clients and during his tenure he has contributed significantly to the development and innovation of BFSG’s processes and service model.

Darren received his Juris Doctorate with Tax Law Emphasis from Chapman University in 2007. While at Chapman, he received the CALI Award for Excellence in the Study of Qualified Pension and Profit Sharing. In 2004, he completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Financial Economics at the University of Redlands. Darren is an Investment Advisor Representative of BFSG, LLC.

====== PLACEHOLDER Q&A =======

What is your personal motto or mantra?
Always give it 100%

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
I enjoy working with our knowledgeable and dedicated team members.

I enjoy volunteering at:
Youth sports or any opportunity to help children.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given and how might this apply to your role here at BFSG?
The best advice I have ever been given is don’t repeat your mistakes twice.

Nicole Chou

Client Service Manager

Nicole joined Benefit Financial Services Group in 2018 and currently serves as a Client Service Manager for a number of corporate and public clients. Prior to joining BFSG, Nicole worked in real estate and was a Collateral Management Specialist at State Street.

Nicole graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of the Pacific with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance and Entrepreneurship. While enrolled, Nicole was Chief Operating Officer of the school’s investment fund and helped manage and allocate the fund’s $2.9M in assets. She is an Investment Advisor Representative of BFSG, LLC.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
I believe, every day, you should have at least one exquisite moment.

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
All forms of art, with the highest appreciation for culinary arts.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
The ability to design and implement changes if there are inefficient processes.

Chad A. Noorani, QKA

Retirement Plan Consultant | Operations Manager

Schedule time with me

Chad joined Benefit Financial Services Group in 2011 and is currently a Retirement Plan & Investment Consultant to a number of corporate and public clients. In addition to his client responsibilities, Chad is responsible for leading the design and development of new client deliverables and creating efficiencies within BFSG’s in-house reporting process. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the CFA^® Society Orange County and is the Education Committee Co-chairperson, as well as being the sitting President of the Society’s educational foundation..

Chad graduated from California State University, Fullerton in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance. He currently holds the ASPPA Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA) designation. Chad is an Investment Advisor Representative of BFSG, LLC.

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
Great people and conversation!

What drew you to the retirement plan industry?
There is an incredible savings gap in the nation, and a lack of interest by most citizens in their personal wealth and future - we're a team dedicated to helping our clients and their employees fill that gap and realize a successful retirement.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
Every time I speak with a participant and they leave the discussion feeling better prepared with how to save for retirement.

I enjoy volunteering at:
Local universities and schools

Michael Allbee, CFP®

Principal | Senior Portfolio Manager | Chief Compliance Officer

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Michael is a member of the Investment Committee. He is also our Chief Compliance Officer, ensuring that we are in compliance with all government regulations. Michael’s main responsibilities include managing and monitoring client portfolios, researching and monitoring our mutual fund investments, and reviewing portfolios with clients. He has been with our firm since 2007.

Michael has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and is a notary public.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
Mistakes are our greatest teachers.

What drew you to the wealth management industry?
I am a lifelong learner. The industry is always growing and changing, allowing me to continuously hone my craft.

The one word or phrase that best describes me is:
Committed (the adjective, not the verb). I choose my obligations wisely and then fully commit to them to their completion.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given and how might this apply to your role here at BFSG?
"Every journey begins with a single step". - Maya Angelou. I keep in mind my destination but focus on what I can control right now.

Tina Schackman, CFA®, CFP®

Principal | Senior Retirement Plan Consultant

Tina re-joined Benefit Financial Services Group in 2019 after spending 7 years with Prudential Retirement. Tina was originally with BFSG from 2004 to 2011 and primarily served as an Investment Consultant to a number of corporate and public clients. Tina currently serves as a Principal and Senior Retirement Plan Consultant. Her expansive background in the retirement industry allows Tina to contribute to the firm’s overall vision and best practices.

Tina received her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from the California State University, Fullerton in 1994. In 2003, she graduated from the Keller Graduate School of Management with a master’s degree in Accounting and Financial Management. Tina is a holder of the right to use the Chartered Financial Analyst^®designation and a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER^™ professional. She is an Investment Advisor Representative of BFSG, LLC.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
Lighten Up, Slow Down, Let It Go.

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
anything outdoors - skiing, paddleboarding, hiking, kayaking.

What drew you to the retirement plan industry?
I spent my early career in wealth management and saw so many people unprepared for retirement, so I decided to shift to the retirement plan industry to have a broader impact on helping people reach their retirement goals.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
The Team. I love being around people that are so dedicated to helping people and passionate about their work.

What’s your favorite travel destination?
Scotland, but that’s because I’ve never been to New Zealand. It’s next on my list!

I enjoy volunteering at:
local non-profit Boards (CFA Society Orange County, Women in Pensions Network (WIPN) and Women Investing in Security and Education (WISE), who all aspire to promote financial education in their community.

The one word or phrase that best describes me is:
Tenacious.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given and how might this apply to your role here at BFSG?
Be curious – I am generally a curious person and when trying to find out what motivates a person or understanding what types of goals they want to set for themselves, curiosity is key.

If you were a superhero, what superpower would you have?
Easy. The power of telekinesis. Then I’ll never have to worry about forgetting where I put something.

Darren Stewart, JD

Principal | Senior Retirement Plan Consultant

What is your personal motto or mantra?
Things take as long as you have to do them.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
The most rewarding part about being a BFSG Team Member are the friendships I have built during my 17 years. I joined because of the friendly and collaborative approach taken during my interview process. I could tell that the team enjoyed working with each other and interactions were light-hearted and genuine. This team-based approach is different than you see in other financial institutions, where workers are typically out for themselves, and I think it shows through in the quality of innovative work we are able to produce. I’ve done my best to continue that tradition and hopefully pass on the experience I had to each of the employees we have hired and will hire in the future.

The one word or phrase that best describes me is:
Joyous.

If you were a superhero, what superpower would you have?
Flying for sure! I love a good rollercoaster and the exhilaration of being able to travel through the air at high speeds would be second to none.

Christopher Rowey, AIFA®

Principal | Senior Retirement Plan Consultant

Christopher joined Benefit Financial Services Group in 2007. His responsibilities include serving as primary Investment Consultant to a number of corporate, public and higher education retirement plan clients. His extensive industry experience dates back to 1987. Prior to joining BFSG, Chris worked for the Capital Group/American Funds where he held a wide range of roles within the corporate retirement and institutional investment market, including developing Capital Group’s first full service 401(k) product offering.

Chris graduated from the University of California, Irvine in 1985, with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Comparative Literature. He is an Investment Advisor Representative of BFSG, LLC, and an Accredited Investment Fiduciary Analyst® (AIFA®).

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
Sailing - there's no better way to spend the day!

What drew you to the retirement plan industry?
The retirement industry allowed me to follow the financial markets, work in a fast paced ever changing environment, and and build meaningful relationships with clients and coworkers.

If you were a superhero, what superpower would you have?
The ability to fly.

Steven Lee Yamshon, PhD

Managing Principal

Steven Lee Yamshon is a Managing Principal at Benefit Financial Services Group and a member of the Investment Committee. With over 35 years of experience, Steve provides valuable insights and perspectives on the economy, markets, and investments.

Prior to joining BFSG, LLC, Steve was managing clients and investments at Stevens First Principles Investment Advisors and Security Pacific National Bank. He has been teaching investment finance at UCLA for over 25 years. He has written 2 books and 32 research papers and case studies on investments, economics, and management. His dissertation Human Action and the Securities Markets was praised for its breakthrough research on the melding of Modern Portfolio Theory and the Austrian Trade Cycle Theory.

Steve earned his Bachelor of Science Degree with honors in Environmental Resources from CSU, Sacramento. His master qualifications and post-doctorate certificate in Management and Finance is from the University of Oxford, Said Business School. He is a graduate of Harvard Business School’s Owner President Management Program and earned his Certificates in Digital Transformation, Technology, and Innovation from Sloan School of Management at MIT. Steve also studied finance, economics, and management at the Doctoral Degree level at the Anderson School of Management at UCLA as a Visiting Scholar. His PhD is from the International Post Graduate School, Universidad de San Jose which merged into Fundacion Empresarial in 1996. He is on the Board of Governors at Cedars Sinai Medical Center and is a volunteer field ranger for the U.S. Forest Service.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
Accountability and Responsibility.

Outside of my professional career I am passionate about:
the environment and the US Forest Service.

What’s your favorite travel destination?
The UK.

The one word or phrase that best describes me is:
Loyal, honest, and trustworthy.

If you were a superhero, what superpower would you have?
I would like to be the invisible man.

Grace Y. Lau, MBA, CFA®

Founding Principal | Senior Wealth Manager

With over 35 years of investment experience, Grace leads the wealth management division’s Phoenix, Arizona office. Prior to starting her own firm, Pacwest Financial Management, Inc., which merged with BFSG, LLC. in 2017, she worked in various portfolio and wealth management roles at First Interstate Capital Management, Barclays Private Bank and Northern Trust.

Grace is a CFA® charterholder. She earned a master’s degree in International Business and Finance from George Washington University in 1975 and a bachelor’s degree in Biology & Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin in 1973. She attended Pacific Coast Banking School and graduated as an Honor Graduate in 1983.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
Always do the right thing.

What drew you to the wealth management industry?
Making a difference and helping people. Be able to make a difference in client’s financial life and experience how grateful they are towards our effort.

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
Working with great clients and caring team members.

The one word or phrase that best describes me is:
Practical.

Patrick Powers, CFA®, CPA, CFP®

Founding Principal

With over 30 years of investment experience, Patrick is a Managing Principal at Benefit Financial Services Group. Patrick is a CFA® charterholder, a Certified Public Accountant with a Personal Financial Specialist Designation (CPA/PFS), and a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER^™ professional. Patrick is a member of the Investment Committee.

Patrick has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting from California State University, Fullerton.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
“Thy will be done.” Simple and straightforward. It helps me order my life towards God.

What’s your favorite travel destination?
My wife and I love going to Italy. It is so diverse, so beautiful, the food and drink are amazing, the people are friendly and there is so much to see and do. It is a very travel friendly country.

The one word or phrase that best describes me is:
I am hard-working. I can’t help it; it is just the way I was raised. We were expected to work hard and to do it right, from a very early age.

John Campbell, AIF®

Founding Principal

John is the founder and Co-President of Benefit Financial Services Group. For over 25 years, he has been working with retirement plan fiduciaries to improve and enhance retirement plan offerings. As the Managing Principal of Institutional Services, he helps to direct the firm’s vision while overseeing its activities.

John earned an Associates’ Degree in radiology from Orange Coast Community College in 1982 and attended California State University, Long Beach from 1982 to 1984. John is an Investment Advisor Representative with BFSG, LLC, and became an Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) in 2004.

What is your personal motto or mantra?
Always give it 100%

What is the most rewarding part of being a BFSG Team Member?
I enjoy working with our knowledgeable and dedicated team members.

I enjoy volunteering at:
Youth sports or any opportunity to help children.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given and how might this apply to your role here at BFSG?
The best advice I have ever been given is don’t repeat your mistakes twice.

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Melissa Ronnie

Client Service Specialist

Fernando Leonardo

Investment Research Analyst

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Administrative Assistant

Katie DeSantis

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Elsie Khoury

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Sandi Stratford

Client Service Specialist

Laura Pistoresi

Client Service Manager

Kirk Masci

Portfolio Manager

Thomas Kyle

Investment Research Analyst

Xiaomei Huang, MBA, MS

Securities and Financial Analyst

Erin Schneider

Investment Research Analyst

Brent Chou

Investment Research Analyst

Henry VanBuskirk, CFP®

Wealth Manager

Antonia Lipovac

Client Service Manager

Aksana Munoz, QKA

Lead Client Service Manager | Plan Compliance Specialist

Robert Verdugo, CMFC®, APMA®, CMT®

Financial Analyst, Senior Trader

Justin Nardo, MBA, CFP®

Senior Relationship Manager

Keith Johnson, CFP®

Senior Education Specialist | Financial Planner

Mark L. Blom, CFP®

Managing Director, Senior Wealth Manager

Braden Priest, CFA®

Retirement Plan Consultant

Kyle Nixon

Operations & Systems Manager

Arash Navi, CPA, CFP® , AWMA®

Controller | Wealth Manager

Paul Horn, CFP® , CPWA®

Director of Financial Planning

Nora Rascon-Brooks, FPQP™

Senior Operations Manager | Portfolio Administrator

Darren Stewart, JD

Principal | Senior Retirement Plan Consultant

Nicole Chou

Client Service Manager

Chad A. Noorani, QKA

Retirement Plan Consultant | Operations Manager

Michael Allbee, CFP®

Principal | Senior Portfolio Manager | Chief Compliance Officer

Tina Schackman, CFA®, CFP®

Principal | Senior Retirement Plan Consultant

Darren Stewart, JD

Principal | Senior Retirement Plan Consultant

Christopher Rowey, AIFA®

Principal | Senior Retirement Plan Consultant

Steven Lee Yamshon, PhD

Managing Principal

Grace Y. Lau, MBA, CFA®

Founding Principal | Senior Wealth Manager

Patrick Powers, CFA®, CPA, CFP®

Founding Principal