Living Life by Design

Sneaker Drive - How You Can Help Families in Binghamton

Living Life By Design - Jeff Chase, Sr. Vice President, Financial Planning

Why I Chose S.E.E.D. - Lori Zawiski, Client Services Associate

Team News - Hannah Burchell Promoted to Wealth Manager

Jeff Chase, Senior Vice President, Financial Planning

At the heart of everything we do is a simple but powerful belief: financial planning isn’t just about numbers—it’s about helping people overcome what’s holding them back from living a life of personal fulfillment. 

Recently, we had the privilege of witnessing a truly inspiring moment with one of our clients who came to us several years ago. They had always been great savers—thoughtful, careful, and frugal are just a few words that come to mind. Like many people, they had done “all the right things” but weren’t quite sure what came next. They wanted to get their financial house fully in order and sought a “second set of eyes” to review their investments, estate planning, tax strategy—you name it. But they also had dreams quietly waiting in the background. 

Through our planning conversations, something started to shift. We explored not just their finances but also their priorities and the life they truly wanted to live. As it turned out, much of this centered around the desire to move out of state and purchase their dream home. 

At first, it didn’t feel possible. They would say things like, “Well, we’d love to move and buy a new house, but that’s probably not realistic.” They were hesitant and nervous. What if they couldn’t afford it? What if it wasn’t the practical thing to do? But over time, through open and honest planning, they began to embrace a belief we hold deeply: money isn’t just for saving—it’s meant to support the life that matters most to you. 

A few weeks ago, they found the right house. And although still a little nervous, they had the confidence to move forward. The husband told me, “Even though I was nervous, what kept going through my mind over and over again was that you had told me it was okay and that we would be fine.” 

That moment is why we do what we do. It’s about helping people unlock the freedom to live with purpose. 

We’re so grateful to play a small part in stories like this. And if there’s something you’ve been putting off—or something you’ve always dreamed of but haven’t yet given yourself permission to pursue—we’re here to help you explore what’s possible. 

Remember, a good financial plan doesn’t just protect your future—it helps you live life by design, today. 

Lori Zawiski, Client Services Associate

After spending eight years at my previous job, I made the decision to join S.E.E.D. Planning Group. What inspired the change? I once asked an SPG employee what made their job so special and different from others. Their response left such an impression on me that I submitted my resume that same day. After a few interviews, I was fortunate enough to be hired—and I haven’t looked back.  

Now that I’ve had time to settle in, I truly understand what makes SPG unique. I feel incredibly blessed and grateful to be part of such a caring and purpose-driven team. The people here go above and beyond their job descriptions. They don’t just work with clients—they get to know them on a deeply personal level in a way I’ve never experienced in any workplace.  

S.E.E.D. Planning Group isn’t just a financial and investment firm—it’s a family. Everyone is kind, supportive, and always willing to lend a hand, no matter how big or small the task. What sets SPG apart is our commitment to our Just Cause: helping people overcome the challenges that prevent them from achieving personal fulfillment. That mission is at the heart of everything we do, and I witness it daily.  

The environment here is one of warmth, compassion, and genuine care—for both our clients and each other. I’ve never worked anywhere that invests so much in people, and I feel incredibly lucky to be part of this amazing organization where everyone and everything truly matters.  

We are proud to share that Hannah Burchell has been promoted to Senior Wealth Manager! 

Hannah joined S.E.E.D. in 2020 and has been a vital part of our team ever since. Her promotion reflects the incredible dedication, growth, and professionalism she brings to her work every day. As Jeff Chase, our Senior Vice President of Financial Planning, shared: 
 “This promotion is well-deserved and a testament to Hannah’s exceptional growth, relentless dedication, and commitment to honing her craft by always seeking ways to improve. Hannah has consistently demonstrated what it means to uphold the standard of excellence we expect from our Wealth Managers.” 

In addition to her new role, Hannah also serves on S.E.E.D.’s Leadership Team and gives back as the Treasurer for SEEDs of Hope, our nonprofit organization focused on community service and financial education. 

Please join us in congratulating Hannah on this exciting milestone!