Today we’d like to introduce you to Avanti Shetye, MBA, CFA, CFP®.
Avanti, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I grew up in a middle-class family in India. My parents worked hard and planned thoughtfully, and they taught me to be resourceful and values-driven. My older brother had special needs, so from an early age, I understood the importance of long-term planning, financial stability, and caring for loved ones. That experience shaped the way I think about money—not as a scorecard, but as a tool to create peace of mind, flexibility, and dignity.
I came to the U.S. to pursue higher education in electrical engineering and eventually earned my MBA. I began my financial career in institutional asset management, helping manage over $800 million for a large insurance company. While I enjoyed the technical side of investing, I found myself wanting to work more directly with individuals and families. I wanted to make an impact that felt more personal and lasting.
When I became a parent, that desire became even stronger. I saw how even highly educated, capable people around me felt overwhelmed by financial decisions. It wasn’t about intelligence. It was about access to clear, conflict-free guidance. That realization led me to launch Wealthwyzr, LLC, a fee-only, advice-only financial planning firm.
Today, I work with young families, pre-retirees, and retirees across the U.S. I help them navigate everything from investments and tax planning to equity compensation, retirement income strategies, and college funding. I bring the structured thinking of an engineer, the analytical lens of an investment professional, and the compassion of someone who’s lived through both financial constraints and caregiving realities. I know what it’s like to live with competing priorities, limited resources, and big dreams. That’s why I approach planning with empathy, not judgment.
I often say I’m not here to sell anything. I’m here to be a thinking partner, someone clients can trust to help them make confident, well-informed choices that align with their values.
For retirees and pre-retirees, that means helping them navigate a major life transition with clarity and calm. It’s not just about numbers. It’s about supporting their goals, preserving their independence, and giving them a financial roadmap they can feel good about.
Outside of client work, I create educational content on YouTube and offer free workshops through local libraries. I believe financial literacy should be should be a public good, not a luxury.
Financial peace doesn’t come from having the most money. It comes from knowing your money is working in service of the life you want.
That’s what I help people build every day.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Has it been a smooth road? Not exactly, but I wouldn’t trade it.
Moving from India to the U.S. as a young woman to pursue higher education was a big leap. I had to figure out not just a new culture but also a completely different financial system, often learning things the hard way. Navigating immigration, building a career from scratch, and learning to advocate for myself in unfamiliar environments came with plenty of challenges.
Professionally, leaving a stable role in institutional asset management to start my own financial planning firm was another big transition. There was no roadmap. I was balancing motherhood, running a business, and serving clients, all in an industry that hasn’t always made space for women of color or working moms.
I also carry the life-long experience of growing up in a caregiving family, and that shaped me in deep ways. It taught me empathy, resilience, and the importance of planning ahead for life’s uncertainties. Those lessons are at the heart of how I support my clients, especially retirees and families who are juggling multiple priorities.
There were moments when I questioned whether people would value the kind of planning I offer, educational, transparent, focused on advice rather than products. But I stayed committed to my mission: to make financial planning more human and more empowering.
Today, I’m proud of the work I do through Wealthwyzr. When a client tells me, “This finally makes sense,” or “I feel so much more at peace,” or “I value having you by our side”, it reminds me why I started in the first place.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At Wealthwyzr, I help people make confident, informed money decisions without the overwhelm.
Wealthwyzr is a fee-only, advice-only financial planning firm based in Maryland, serving clients across the U.S. I work primarily with young families, pre-retirees, and retirees who want to make smart, values-aligned financial decisions but often feel uncertain about where to start. Whether it’s figuring out retirement income, navigating equity compensation, or reducing tax surprises, I provide personalized, objective guidance – no product sales, no hidden agendas.
I specialize in comprehensive financial planning that covers investments, taxes, retirement, college savings, insurance analysis, and estate planning review. My clients appreciate having a trusted thinking partner who can break down complexity and offer a clear path forward.
What sets Wealthwyzr apart is the clarity and care we bring to every conversation.
I’m proud to offer complete transparency in pricing, with all fees clearly listed on my website so clients know exactly what to expect. Our services are structured to meet people where they are, whether they need a one-time comprehensive plan or ongoing financial partnership.
I’m also deeply committed to education. In addition to one-on-one planning, I regularly lead free community workshops through local libraries and share helpful content on my YouTube channel. Financial literacy is at the heart of what I do – because I believe people make better decisions when they feel informed and empowered.
If there’s one thing I want your readers to know, it’s this:
You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. And you don’t need to be wealthy to plan wisely. At Wealthwyzr, we provide expert guidance with transparency, empathy, and a genuine commitment to your goals.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Thank you for the opportunity to share my story. I’d like your readers to know that financial planning is truly for everyone. It’s not just about managing money – it’s about designing a life that reflects what matters most to you. Whether you’re just starting out or entering retirement, having a clear plan and a trusted partner can turn uncertainty into confidence.
Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek help. The financial world can feel overwhelming, but you deserve guidance that respects your values and your unique situation. At Wealthwyzr, I’m passionate about making financial education accessible and approachable, so people feel empowered to take control of their financial future.
Finally, remember this: wealth isn’t just what’s in your accounts. It’s peace of mind, security for your family, and the freedom to pursue your dreams.
Pricing:
- https://wealthwyzr.com/
- https://wealthwyzr.com/financial-planning-services-and-process/
- https://wealthwyzr.com/fee-only-financial-planning-fees/
Contact Info:
- Website: https://wealthwyzr.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wealthwyzr/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avantishetye
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@wealthwyzr/videos
