Shaun Leonard, CFP®, AIF®
Wealth Advisor
Benjamin Franklin once said, “By failing to plan, you are planning to fail.” and when it comes to managing personal finances this could not be more true. My goal as a wealth advisor is to help my clients achieve their life goals while navigating any unexpected turns along the way.
I received a B.S. in Finance from the Feliciano School of Business at Montclair State University. After graduating, I obtained the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification and the AIF® professional designation.
While pursuing my bachelor’s degree in finance, I met Judd Carlton, a wealth advisor who became a pivotal figure in my career. Through a mutual connection, I had the opportunity to intern at Judd’s firm early in my career. I admired how Judd approached high-net-worth families and individuals with not just technical knowledge, but with a deep understanding of their life goals. He demonstrated that financial planning isn’t just about numbers—it’s about crafting personalized strategies that align with our client’s aspirations, family dynamics, and legacies.
Judd’s mentorship inspired me to pursue advanced training and certifications such as the CFP® and the AIF® to refine my technical expertise and stay ahead of the curve. These credentials have empowered me to implement sophisticated strategies that generate significant value for my clients.
Judd also instilled in me the importance of listening—not just to what clients say, but to what they may not say. Clients often have very specific concerns—whether refining their investment portfolio, optimizing their tax strategy, or planning for intergenerational wealth transfers. It’s not about offering a cookie-cutter solution; it’s about tailoring a strategy that accurately reflects our client’s values and goals.
One key moment in my journey stands out. I worked with a client who was urgently seeking ways to reduce their tax burden. After taking the time to truly listen and understand their broader objectives, I collaborated with their accountant to develop a retirement plan that not only reduced their tax liability but also increased their long-term savings potential. That experience reinforced how critical it is to listen closely and take a collaborative approach.
By blending expertise with empathy, I empower my clients to make decisions that support their financial security and their life’s aspirations, ensuring that their wealth works for them both today and in the future.
