Why I Became A Financial Advisor

By Joel Rieck

Most of us can point to specific people or events that influenced our decisions and made a significant impact on how we live our lives. For me, it was the inspiration and example of my grandfather that led me to where I am today. He was a financial advisor, and I got to see firsthand the impact he had on both his community and the lives of individuals who relied on him to guide them through financial decisions. I deeply respected his dedication and wanted to add value to others’ lives in the same way.

My Career Journey

That’s what got me into the industry, but the reason I’m still here is that I truly believe in the end result I produce for my clients. To get here, though, I worked hard for many years to gain the experience and education I needed to serve my clients’ financial needs. I earned a master’s degree from Northern Arizona University and spent a handful of years as an insurance agent. Getting my feet wet in the industry showed me that I wanted to do more. I developed a passion and vision for providing customized, comprehensive financial solutions so people could achieve their long-term financial goals and pursue a secure retirement. 

With that in mind, my next step was to work as a financial advisor, offering pension consulting services to educators, helping them plan and implement the 403(b) and 457(b) plans available to them through their employers. This was a pivotal experience, showing me how much of a difference proper planning can make. I decided to branch out, founding Northland Financial, a financial advisory firm serving pre-retirees and retirees in Flagstaff and Scottsdale, Arizona. 

My Role Today

Now, as president, financial advisor, Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC®), and National Social Security Advisor (NSSA®), I specialize in helping and educating my clients on planning their retirement and managing risks. In today’s financial landscape, being prepared and creating strategies for various aspects of retirement is key to experiencing a fulfilling retirement. It’s easy for emotions to cloud financial decisions, but helping people understand financial concepts and walking them through possible scenarios allows them to make the decisions that will put them in the best position possible to avoid financial disaster. 

I was recently asked how I find the motivation to keep doing what I’m doing, day in and day out. My answer is simple: there’s just nothing like taking someone from not knowing if they’ll be able to retire the way they want, to looking toward the future with confidence and seeing them retire without fear or concern about running out of money. It’s my joy to come to work every day, give my best, and see others benefit from my passion and knowledge. 

What’s Your Story?

What experiences have led you to where you are today? What do you want your retirement to look like? I’d love to chat with you and show you how I can help. Schedule a complimentary consultation by calling 928-316-1213 or emailing info@northlandfinancialllc.com.

About Joel

Joel Rieck is president and founder of Northland Financial, LLC. He specializes in helping and educating the public on planning their retirement and managing risks. He assists individuals with retirement income planning, Medicare, Social Security, life insurance, IRAs, and asset management. Joel is a certified National Social Security Advisor (NSSA®) as well as a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC). He holds a Series 65 securities license as well as life, health, property, and casualty insurance licenses, and is a registered Investment Advisor Representative with the SEC. Joel holds a deep commitment to service, communication, and integrity. To learn more about Joel, connect with him on LinkedIn.