From an early age, I was determined to control my financial future—and I had a little more motivation than wanting to live comfortably.

You see, my father was a successful and well-respected businessman. And, as most good businesspeople do, he relied on a circle of trusted financial and legal advisors. But no one helped him put the pieces together into a coordinated financial plan. He did not have an advocate. As a result, he was not as financially prepared as he could have been as he dealt with his estate later in life.

I committed not to repeat those mistakes myself—and to become an advocate for others, so they too didn’t encounter these problems.

So, in 1983, after graduating from the University of Kansas with a journalism degree, I started my career in the Financial Services industry.

Later, following in the footsteps of my entrepreneurial father, I decided to start my own business to have even greater control over my future. In 1988, I founded Twin Financial with my twin sister Raleigh. Since then, I’ve helped hundreds of clients, primarily owners of closely held businesses, discover their potential to not only build wealth, but also preserve it.

Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, and as a business owner myself, I understand that most business owners’ wealth is tied up in their companies. Believe me when I say that I know firsthand the blood, sweat, and tears it takes to get that money in the bank. So, in my role as co-owner of Twin Financial, I specialize in financial planning and asset protection strategies. My ultimate responsibility is to ensure my clients have multiple, favorable options with life events (expected or unexpected) arise. When you have options, you have security.

My greatest satisfaction is seeing business owners I have counseled and guided for several years successfully exit their businesses with the financial freedom to enjoy their retirement dreams.

My husband John and I live in Kansas City, Mo., where we enjoy spending time with our three grown sons. ’m involved in several business and philanthropic organizations.

As an active member of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), I work to promote the financial planning field as a viable career choice for women.

I also present to business owner groups on the importance of business transition planning and protecting the wealth they’ve built in their businesses.