Meet Mariah Phillips | Financial Advisor & Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mariah Phillips and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mariah, do you disagree with some advice that is more or less universally accepted?
My mom always told me to get a good government job, work hard, earn your paycheck and retire with a nice pension. But I tried that route. I worked as a public school teacher. I made little money, had little opportunity to make more, and the pension is only a fraction of what my mom received. And I tried working for a big corporation. Pay, benefits and retirement were was better (if you know what you’re doing), but there is no loyalty from companies to their employees. Times have changed.. to retire, you’ve got to watch out for yourself!

What should our readers know about your business?
As a Financial Advisor, I help people put together the picture of their financial puzzle, overcoming the obstacles that are getting in the way of reaching their goals! Everyone deserves to talk with an advisor. Shame, pride, and fear keep many people from reaching out. I have the background of a personal finance teacher, so I can break very complex concepts into easily understandable ideas.

Starting this business at any age is a challenge since 10% of people stay in this career for more than 3 years. So jumping in during my 40’s was a risk I’m glad I took. There are advantages to being older in this business – I have life experience and I’ve built a reputation in my community as a person with integrity. When it’s time to speak with someone about their financial situation, people trust me to guide them to the best options for their situation.

I pride myself on having a diverse pool of clients, making sure everyone feels welcome, safe and cared for, My clients range from women in their 40’s and 50’s getting ready to retire, young couples who are just getting started, and creative entrepreneurs who are balancing their variable cash flow, focused on growing their business and also saving for the future.

Regardless of where you come from, I will help you activate your potential!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Meeting at Hilltop Coffee + Cafe would be the first stop for the day. There are many great coffee shops but this one is such a vibe! If this is a longer trip, we would hit a few different spots, depending on the neighborhood.

For lunch, I love to hit up the Farmers Market on 3rd. It’s a great place to walk around and try fresh made foods from various cultures. On Sundays, the Melrose Trading Post is a great place to explore fun vintage finds and get coffee for home from Del Cid Coffee.

During the day, finding outside adventures is part of the experience of LA! Hikes in the Hollywood Hills, playing volleyball on the beach, or window shopping in Beverly Hills is always a good idea. Don’t overlook visiting the tar pits to see aside of LA most people don’t know.

At night, there are plenty of restaurants to enjoy, but my preference is a nice quiet dinner at home on the outside patio. Once the sun goes down, we will definitely go to a comedy show, especially if my son Zavior Phillips or any of his friends are performing.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family are my biggest supporters. My mother and grandmother are both strong, independent women who took control of their situations and taught me to do the same. I hope to be that example to my own kids, who are grown now but provide motivation and encouragement everyday.

Derrek has been the biggest cheerleader, celebrating me, no matter the cause. When I wanted to go back to college, run for political office, or start my own business, he has been a champion for my success.

Website: https://www.northwesternmutual.com/financial/advisor/mariah-phillips/planning

Instagram: Money.moves.with.Mariah

Linkedin: Mariah Phillips

Facebook: @Mariah Phillips – Financial Advisor

Image Credits
Portfolio photos taken by Keren Trevino Photography