Kristen M. Makari

I grew up just outside of Columbus, OH until moving to Cincinnati to attend the University of Cincinnati, graduating in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Middle Childhood Education, with a focus on math and social studies. After teaching middle school for a year, I decided to explore other career options. I was introduced to the financial services industry and knew very quickly that I found my calling. Within two years I obtained Series 7 and Series 66 licenses held with LPL Financial, as well as a Life and Health Insurance license. I completed the rigorous requirements for the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) designation in 2017, acquired the Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist (CRPS®) designation in 2018 & due to free time during the pandemic, completed the Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor(CPFA®) designation in 2021.

I have always been passionate about teaching financial literacy topics and doing what I can to help the average person understand these topics. I am so thankful that I get the opportunity to fuel this passion every day by working with clients and serving people that need financial guidance. At the office, you can find me working on financial plans or assisting our small business retirement plan clients. In my spare time, I volunteer as a mentor for the CFP® Board’s women’s mentoring program, and as a financial planner for both Family Reach, an organization that helps families impacted by cancer, and Savvy Ladies, an organization that helps underserved women take control of their finances. I also serve on the investment committee for the Northern Cincinnati Community Foundation, which is solely focused on giving back to the community.

I am actively involved in my church, and enjoy spending time with my family, which includes my husband, Brandon, two perfect kiddos, Zayden & Gianna, and two awesome pups, Arlow & Ranger, traveling – preferably to the beach, and cheering on my favorite team, The Ohio State Buckeyes.