A Personalized Approach to Finance: The Inspiring Work of Jacqui Simon and Kadja Larranaga

Jacqui Simon and Kadja Larranaga, Impact Leadership Network (ILN)

A Holistic Approach to Financial Planning

When discussing this topic, they make sure to emphasize that financial well-being isn’t just about savings or investments; it’s about creating a strategy that encompasses every aspect of a person’s financial life. Jacqui and Kadja walked through a holistic approach to financial planning. They understand that true financial well-being includes services like retirement planning, estate planning, debt management, tax strategies, and life insurance. By addressing each client's unique needs, they ensure that all financial elements work together toward achieving personal and business goals.

“We take a holistic approach to someone's finances and make sure everything is working together to help them reach their financial goals,” Jacqui explained. “Where some companies only specialize in one or two areas, we look at the whole picture.”

Many financial professionals focus on one or two areas only, leaving gaps in a client’s overall financial health. However, Jacqui and Kadja’s full-service model ensures that nothing falls through the cracks. They work closely with individuals and business owners to create custom-tailored strategies that protect assets, maximize investments, and prepare for unexpected life changes.

Serving the Underserved

One of the distinguishing features of their work is their commitment to serving individuals and families who may not meet the high net-worth thresholds required by many financial advisors. There are some traditional financial firms that often require clients to have a minimum net worth of $250,000 or at least $100,000 to invest. Those who don’t meet these company-specific criteria are usually denied access to professional financial planning services.



“The people we serve are typically overlooked by the financial industry,” Jacqui shared. “Most companies will only talk to you if you have at least a quarter of a million dollars in net worth or a hundred thousand dollars to invest. We’re focusing on middle America—bringing Wall Street concepts to Main Street.”

Nationwide Reach with a Personal Touch

Despite being based in different parts of the country—Jacqui in Tampa, Florida, and Kadja in Las Vegas, Nevada—they leverage technology to assist clients nationwide. Through virtual meetings, they eliminate geographical barriers, making financial guidance accessible to anyone, anywhere.



“Because we operate everything on Zoom, we’re able to help people anywhere,” Jacqui noted. “That means no traffic, no territory restrictions, and no limitations. As long as we have an internet connection, we can provide guidance.”

Personal Journeys Fueling Professional Passion

Both Jacqui and Kadja bring personal experiences that fuel their passion for financial education. Jacqui transitioned from a 20-year career in hospitality to financial services after realizing she had multiple 401(k) accounts from previous employers that she knew little about. Her journey to understand and manage her own finances revealed just how little financial literacy is taught in schools and workplaces.

“I had three 401(k)s with three different companies, and I knew nothing about them,” Jacqui recalled. “When you get to a job, they give you a 401(k), but they don’t tell you how it works.”



Kadja, on the other hand, entered the industry seeking to fill the gap in financial knowledge she observed in her own life and others'. She saw firsthand how financial insecurity can impact families and wanted to be part of the solution.

“They don’t teach you this stuff in school,” Kadja emphasized. “Once you learn how money really works, you develop a passion for it, and then you want to go out and help people.”

A Client-Centric, No-Fee Model

A significant aspect of their service is the non-captive, no-fee model. Unlike firms that are tied to a single provider, Jacqui and Kadja partner with numerous companies in the industry, allowing them to find the best fit for their clients without being restricted to specific products.



Moreover, clients don’t pay for their services. Instead, they are compensated by the companies they represent when a client adopts a recommended solution. This approach ensures unbiased advice tailored to each client’s best interests, making their services accessible to people who might not otherwise seek financial guidance.

Impactful Client Stories

The real impact of their work is evident in client stories. One of the most compelling examples is Jacqui’s work with a 29-year-old client diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Understanding the client’s future health challenges, they secured life insurance policies with living benefits, providing financial support for medical needs during her lifetime.



“For a lot of people, life insurance is an abstract concept—it’s a ‘what if,’” Jacqui explained. “For her, it’s a ‘when.’ She now has financial security, and that means everything.”

Business Solutions and Succession Planning

In addition to working with individuals and families, Jacqui and Kadja provide financial strategies for businesses. They specialize in buy-sell agreements, key person insurance policies, and business succession planning. These services help business owners protect their companies, ensuring continuity in the event of unexpected circumstances such as the loss of a key employee or owner.



“We do a lot of work with business owners,” Jacqui said. “Whether it’s setting up key person policies, group 401(k) plans, or helping with business succession planning, we want to ensure they’re set up for long-term success.”

Expanding Reach Through Networking and Partnerships

Jacqui and Kadja actively network through platforms like LinkedIn, Alignable, and in-person events. They also collaborate with professionals in complementary industries, such as business consultants, CPAs, and legal professionals, to expand their impact.



“We’re huge on referral sources,” Jacqui noted. “When you have that warm introduction, there’s already trust and credibility built in.”

The Future of Impact Leadership Network

With more than 20 years of industry experience, the Impact Leadership Network continues to grow and adapt. Originally part of a larger firm, it became an independent entity about a year and a half ago. The organization is now focused on expanding its reach and educating more individuals and businesses about financial security.

The Next Steps

Jacqui Simon and Kadja Larranaga are not just financial advisors—they are financial educators, advocates, and leaders. Through the Impact Leadership Network, they are helping families and businesses build a more secure financial future, one conversation at a time.

“Understanding your financial options is the first step,” Jacqui concluded. “Once you know what’s available, you can make decisions that will truly benefit you and your family in the long run.”

For more information about Jacqui Simon, Kadja Larranaga, and Impact Leadership Network, please contact them at:

(732) 986-6683

jacqui.simon@ilnagency.com

https://www.theiln.agency/jacqui-simon

https://www.alignable.com/land-o-lakes-fl-2/impact-leadership-network

https://www.alignable.com/henderson-nv/impact-leadership-network-3