The Backstory...

I've always enjoyed investing and personal finance. Graduating from college with an Economics degree in 1988, I decided I first wanted to serve my country before beginning my "desk" job and became an Infantry Officer in the US Army. It was an honor and privilege to lead troops in combat and I served for five years before transitioning to my civilian career. In late 1993, I  joined Bank of America, then Charles Schwab, helping individuals with personal finances and investments. I was working as a registered Broker at Charles Schwab when our nation was attacked September 11th, 2001.  I knew I needed to return to military duty, which I did in early 2002. 
 

The Global War on Terrorism was our nation's longest war - In 2004, I was selected to join a Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) Special Mission Unit as a Military Intelligence Officer and ultimately completed six deployments to the Middle East and North Africa. After about 10 years, I realized my primary career path was now with the Department of Defense (DoD). Retiring from active duty Army in 2012, I then became a Department of Defense civilian, eligible for federal civilian retirement in May of 2025.  My military awards include a Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Expert Infantry Badge, and Parachutist Badge. 

 

In 2025, my goal is to return to the personal finance career that was never fully realized - this time with a different approach. I've always thought that Financial Planners charge a lot for their services, making it difficult for those early in their financial journey or those who need some assistance, to get good, affordable, personalized financial advice. I believe the most important stage of your financial growth takes place in your first 20 years of adult (earning) life. If you can set a solid foundation, you'll likely be in good shape later on. If you wait until you're older, it may be very challenging to catch-up.
 

So how is Rising Tides Financial Planning (RTFP) different? In studying the market, I found that most Financial Planners cater to affluent and high income persons - that's where they can charge higher fees. I want to do something different. Being retired from the Army, I can personally afford to charge less and I want to help individuals get themselves started on a solid retirement planning path. Because it's my company, RTFP has a tiered fee structure that is based on your income and is designed to help clients grow their personal wealth in a purposeful, measured manner. My personal journey includes time in the military and federal government, as well as my professional experience with Bank of America, experience as a Registered Broker at Charles Schwab, certification as a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC), a Registered Investment Advisor and personal investing success. With that background, I have unique insight as to how retirement planning, to include government retirement systems and long term benefits like VA disability, factor into holistic financial planning. I welcome the opportunity to work with all clients and would enjoy speaking with you to see how I can help you meet your long range financial goals. 

Thanks for reading my story,  please drop me a note below.     - John

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