Marc Livernois

I grew up in Detroit, watching working people do everything right and still struggle to get ahead. When my father died at 47—I was one month away from turning 22—everything changed. My mother was suddenly a widow with six kids still at home. She'd been a stay-at-home mom for over 25 years and had no experience with finances. Within days, life insurance agents were calling, pitching products she didn't understand. I watched her try to navigate decisions that would affect the rest of her life, and I realized I could help her. More than that, I realized this could be my career: being the person families turn to when things matter most.

That was over 30 years ago, and it still drives everything I do. I love the markets. I love following what's happening and understanding why. But what motivates me is helping people understand what it all means for them specifically. Most people don't have the time or desire to filter through the constant noise. They just want to know: Am I going to be okay? Can I do what I'm planning to do? I give them their time back by taking that burden off their shoulders.

Growing up where I did, watching the decline of the middle class, shaped how I see this work. People are trying to build something. They're trying to take care of their families. They deserve someone who sees that and respects it.

My wife and I have been married for almost 40 years. We have children and grandchildren, and at the end of the day, they're what matters. They're our legacy. When I'm not working, I'm traveling with family, spending time with my grandchildren, or on the ice playing hockey. Those are the things worth protecting.