I believe that the No. 1 factor for successful investing is time in the market. Unfortunately, we're wired to react to emotions that tempt us to invest during good times and back away during declines – intermittent investing. I pride myself on not only educating clients on the natural cycle of markets but also on building portfolios designed to weather through any type of market. As a team, we can then leave emotions at the door and get to the business of creating personalized long-term financial strategies based on individual goals and staying on track for life.

For 16 years, I worked at one of the major Canadian banks handling trade corrections across the country. My clients were financial advisors. I really enjoyed that career and the work was important but – perhaps because I watched as financial advisors made trades on behalf of their clients – I felt a pull to get to know individual clients myself. So 15 years ago, I switched careers and began been working one-on-one with investors, getting to understand what is really important to them and helping them achieve their best possible lives. I purposefully chose Edward Jones because they truly put the client first – and so do I.

This work couldn't be more rewarding! I define success not in monetary value but by the relationships I build, relationships that often transcend financial discussions. Knowing I have traveled extensively, one client asked for advice on her next vacation. Since I knew her personality and interests so well, I confidently proposed Italy, and she had the best time ever.

My two passions in life are photography and travel. I photograph what strikes me in the places I travel, and I travel to places that are off the beaten path – North Korea, Myanmar, Chernobyl, Zimbabwe and Japan jump to mind.

The apple of my eye is my new grandson just two hours away in Niagara, where I was born and raised.