Meet your team of advisors who can help you cover money need-to-knows—and make sure you have fun along the way.

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Ian Sylves

isylves@vfgnys.com
716.817.6671

my story

I’ve always loved math and creative problem solving. It’s a fun task for me—but when done for the benefit of others, it adds an element of personal connection often alienated by traditional number crunching.

That’s the human element that recently drew me into this field. I can put my love of and interest in numbers to work for families interested in reaching their short- and long-term goals. In turn, I become someone my clients can rely on to take away stress associated with such things as supporting an ongoing lifestyle, paying for a child’s education, or planning for retirement so they can focus on what truly matters—more quality time with their loved ones.

And just because we’re on opposite sides of the table doesn’t mean we aren’t on the same team. My clients’ goals become my goals. I’m not in this profession to tell someone how to live their life. I’m here to enable that life, to provide financial direction, prioritize goals, and enhance fiscal health.

I know financial success and freedom can be intimidating to some people. But if I’m able to ease this trepidation through prudent and purposeful guidance, I know I can change a life. This opportunity for impact means everything to me, and once my financial services days are through, it’s a legacy I’ll be proud to leave behind.

You should know

Before I worked in finance, I was a professional ice hockey goalie, and played across the U.S. and Europe until I retired in 2020.

fun facts

Favorite Book

“The Way of the Peaceful Warrior” by Dan Millman

Drink of Choice

Old Fashioned

Binge-worthy food

Veggie Chips

Bucket list destination

France

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Ian Sylves

Navigating the Realm of Home Buying

THURSDAY / DEC 19

Online Class | 6:00PM - 7:00PM EST

Ian
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Michael Ragusa

mragusa@vfgnys.com
716.650.2242

my story

Why I initially entered the financial industry is the same reason I’m still here 18+ years later: to become a trusted financial confidant to individuals from all walks of life, able to develop plans accommodating to their individualized monetary needs.

Was this the plan when I embarked on my professional journey? No. I earned my law degree in 2003, too—but I felt drawn to the meaningful work available in my current field, so I changed course and never looked back. The ability to make real connections with clients, develop sales teams, and have an impact on both contingents’ lives, continues to be rewarding.

When not charting financial plans amid ever-changing market conditions, I recharge my batteries in Wheatfield with the love of my life, Amy. We spend our time with her beautiful children, embarking on outdoor adventures together, hosting cookouts, and enjoying pool days with friends and family. In-between these plans, I find plenty of time to cook and try inventive new recipes—but never fear, I’ve yet to prepare a dish as invaluable as my financial direction, so guess I’ll keep my day job.

You should know

I can play several instruments, including guitar, and ukulele. Have I used any of these instruments to play some of my favorite earworms like, the Red-Hot Chili Peppers’ “By the Way”? Possibly. Have I been successful? I guess I’ll keep my day job.

fun facts

Favorite Book

“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Drink of Choice

Dark & Stormy

Spirit animal

Octopus

Bucket list destination

Monaco

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Grant Kohler

gkohler@financialguide.com
585.399.8352

my story

I entered the financial services industry for one simple reason: to provide individuals with the financial direction necessary to live their best life. Direction can be hard to come by, but it’s always necessary to find your way.

My way started with stints in international sales for a medical company and in business development for my family’s century-old manufacturing company. Elements from those jobs–increasing cash flow and holdings, limiting risk, and leaning on the research of experts—now serves me in my career in financial services, and has me headed toward new discoveries, every day.

As a Rochester native who’s traveled to all seven continents—and loves to experience different cultures and natural wonders of the world—I feel education is an essential part of life, one that helps us grow and evolve. In helping individuals with their financial planning needs, I get the opportunity to learn about my clients’ goals, all while I share with them what it will take to get them there. Together, we cultivate financial plans aimed at a desired destination, while able to navigate any twists and turns that arise.

You should know

I’m also a private pilot, which seems like an off complement to financial planning, but it’s not. Flight planning can be a lot like financial planning. The point is to get from where we are to where we want to be, and along the way, we’re bound to encounter the unpredictable. Still, proper planning provides the smoothest ride—in both endeavors.

fun facts

Can't live without

Good friendships

Drink of choice

Paloma

Binge worthy food

Jalapeno pretzel pieces

Bucket list destination

The Arctic Circle

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Bill Oliver

woliver@financialguide.com
716.276.1135

my story

One should always expect the unexpected, especially when it comes to finances. My mother passed away from cancer on my 21st birthday and she had no plan in place and no life insurance. She left her retirement account from NYS with my stepfather who, because of poor financial coaching, failed to keep the money invested during the 2008 crisis. He’s currently in his mid 70s and still has to work because he and my mother never planned. I never wanted to be in that situation. After I got out of the Army, I considered going into law enforcement. While in college, I excelled in accounting and economics and found great interest in the financial area. Now, I get to serve and protect families and business owners in a way that my family never had.

Outside of work, I’m a big foodie, so I love going out to local restaurants and bars. I also enjoy my Harley Davidson Fat Boy that I’ve been riding had since 2006. I appreciate all the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies, concerts (mainly rock and country), shooting sports, and snowboarding when I can find time.

You should know

I am from the little town of Homer about 30 miles south of Syracuse. I have a bachelor’s degree in business with a concentration in finance from UB. The sole reason I chose UB and moved to Buffalo is because I am a die-hard Bills fan!

fun facts

Wish I knew more about

Woodworking

Your spirit animal

Well, the internet quiz said I was a Condor

Favorite restaurant

The original Dinosaur BBQ in Syracuse NY

Guilty pleasure

I could eat pizza and wings every day if it was healthy

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Joe Bianchi

jbianchi@theestablishmentnys.com
585.399.8346

my story

Once I left the automotive industry and started in the financial services business in 2007, I knew I wanted to stay. Helping people create a financial roadmap to plan for the future and watching them get a sense of security in knowing they are going to be all right is a great reward. It’s very important for me to make a difference in someone’s life – even someone I don’t know.

When I’m not dispelling many of the financial misconceptions people have, I enjoy golfing, vacationing with my wife, and playing with my dogs. I was born in Illion, NY and raised for most on my life in Greece, NY. I love the relatively short commutes wherever traveling in Rochester, where people enjoy a lower cost of living over other major cities.

You should know

I was married in 2006. My wife is a Speech Language Pathologist and I’m very proud of the work she does and the difference she makes.

fun facts

Hidden talent

I can juggle

Happy hour order

Wine

Dream destination

Italy

When I was 10, I wanted to be a

A professional athlete

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Sarah Blankenship

sblankenship@TheEstablishmentNYS.com
716.906.3175

my story

The way I live my life—never wanting to miss out on anything—feeds right into the way I help people learn about finances. Peace of mind should come first, so when it comes to helping people learn about the financial world, I sweat the details.

You never know what's going to give you the wake up call that you're an adult and need to get smart about money (for me, it was buying a toaster for the first time!), so I'm ready to educate people, no matter where they are in the process.

Like lots of people my age, I’m pretty busy outside of work—from holding a Tae Kwon Do black belt to holding office as president of the Western New York Charter Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association—so I get that it can be hard to make the time to talk about money. But I think once millennials start learning more, they’ll see it’s well worth it.

You should know

Chef and entertainer at heart. North Buffalo runner. Believer in living for today and planning for tomorrow.

fun facts

Favorite wine

Mark West Pinot Noir

On the bucket list

Hit every island in the Beach Boys’ “Kokomo”

Morning must-have

Lots (and lots) of coffee

Favorite restaurant

Woo Chon Korea House in Williamsville

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Sarah Blankenship

Females and Finance

TUESDAY / DEC 17

Online Class | 6:00PM - 7:00PM EST

Sarah
SOLD OUT
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Austin Blujus

ablujus@TheEstablishmentNYS.com
716.276.1160

my story

It all started when I was an intern with MassMutual New York State during my junior and senior years studying pre-law at UB. I decided to make the leap to become a financial advisor, ditched the law school applications, and the rest is history.

One of the best parts of my gig? Helping people everyday at all different stages of their life gain control, set goals, and make plans to better their personal and financial futures. It's never too early, or for that matter too late to start... Your future self will thank you!

I grew up in Amherst with a big (crazy) family, but we're as close as they come. If I'm not following my brother's hockey career, my sister's college softball team, or hanging out with the rest of my family, you can be sure to find me out and about enjoying everything Buffalo has to offer!

I currently call North Buffalo home with my wife Jacqueline, but have lived in just about every great neighborhood in the city!

You should know

Sports analysts in another life... Still waiting for ESPN's phone call. All things hockey junkie. Chipotle addict. Movie and binge television watching enthusiast.

fun facts

Favorite beer

Blue Light

In my desk drawer

My pen collection

Hidden talent

Unparalleled car singer

Favorite musician

Kenny Chesney

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Tim Downing

tdowning@theestablishmentnys.com
716.276.1172

my story

Inspired by the Steve Jobs Stanford commencement speech where he told the graduates to leave their “dent” in the universe, I wanted to work in a career that was impactful. Working as a financial advisor, I create strategies for people to help them achieve their financial goals. This has given me a great sense of purpose for almost a decade.

Unfortunately, people generally misunderstand the work we do as financial advisors. Our business addresses the financial needs of individuals whether they live a long time, die prematurely, or become disabled. Most of the time, I help my clients come up with solutions that fit their situation during uncertain times. Luckily, my work at The Establishment clarifies our purpose.

In my free time, I am active in my church and I love traveling. Whether it’s a weekend road trip or a trip overseas, it’s nice to know there is a world beyond my four walls!

You should know

Born and raised in Amherst, NY. A diehard hard Bills and Sabres fan. Can do 100 pushups. Gives annually to Catholic Charities.

fun facts

Drink of choice

Starbucks cold brew

Dream job

Pilot

Can't live without

Reese's Peanut Butter Cup

Wish I knew more about

The universe

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Jim Ferrari

jferrari@TheEstablishmentNYS.com
585.399.8311

my story

Everything I do is for my family. So after 24 years in the restaurant and foodservice industry, I went into financial services because it offered flexibility for family and the freedom to build my own business. The field is so rich, it can be a challenge staying focused on just one thing at a time.

Over a decade later, I still enjoy seeing my clients and team reach and exceed their goals. I feel rewarded knowing I was there to coach them along their way to success.

Outside of work, I love to cook and build/fix things. Remodeling and fine woodworking is another passion of mine, which I did professionally. I can build custom doors and moldings in my own shop. Beyond that, I like spending time with my family and attending my kids’ sporting events.

Originally from Walworth, I live in the Rochester area simply because everything is 20 minutes away and my family is here.

You should know

Past president for the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. Been on the board for six years.

fun facts

Song that never gets old

“You’ve Got a Friend” by James Taylor

Favorite restaurant

McCann’s Local Meats

Drink of choice

Amber lager, nothing too hoppy

Wish I knew more about:

As a father of two... the teenage mind

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Jim Ferrari

Personal Finance Fundamentals

WEDNESDAY / DEC 18

Online Class | 6:00PM - 7:00PM EST

Jim
BOOK CLASS
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Phil Held, LACP

pheld@theestablishmentnys.com
716.843.3181

my story

After working in the nonprofit field, I fell in love with the idea of running my own business and helping others. Thirteen years ago, I was lucky enough to find the opportunity to work in financial services. My work is all about helping people plan for uncertain times so that they can not only reach all of their financial goals, but protect their families.

My family life was spent growing up in Hamburg, surrounded by friends I’ve known since playing Little League baseball, spending days at the beach, and passing nights playing our favorite Pearl Jam songs. It was a great place to make years full of memorable moments, ones I still carry with me every day.

Now, I have a family of my own. Settled in Clarence, we all like to get out and be a part of things, together. Whether out to a local concert, community event or farmers’ market, it’s great to make new memories with my wife and kids, all while feeling the same connectiveness that makes Western New York such a special place.

You should know

Problematic Sabres fan, and discriminating chicken wing connoisseur. I’m a board member of Amherst High School Academies and Board Member/President of National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors - New York State.

fun facts

Dream job

NHL player

Drink of choice

Spot Coffee

Can't live without

Pearl Jam

Favorite book

Unbreakable by Thom Shea

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Cathy Lanzalaco, MBA, CPRW, CPCC, NCOPE

cathy@inspirecareers.com
716.481.7662

my story

As a career coach, professional resume writer, and three-time career changer myself, I help job seekers and career-minded professionals create the tools and strategies they need to land jobs they love in less time than going it alone. I believe life is too short not to do work you love or make the kind of money you deserve.
I also believe life is too short not to do anything you love, so I try to do a lot of what brings me joy, like traveling, making the best diner food you’ve ever tasted, or working on my manuscript destined to become the next great American novel. To keep fit during our long Buffalo winters, I’ve become a mall walker. Don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it.

You should know

I want to meet Barbara Corcoran from Shark Tank. If you know her, could you please introduce us?

fun facts

Dream Job

Co-host of the 3rd hour of the Today Show

Guilty Pleasure

Hot bath + glass of wine + trashy novel

Favorite Book

The Four Agreements

Can’t Live Without

My vinyl record collection

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Eric Palumbo

epalumbo@TheEstablishmentNYS.com
585.399.8365

my story

Failing to plan is planning to fail. That’s my mantra. I saw the effects bad planning can have on people and that is what led me to a career as a financial professional about 10 years ago.

Unlike most of the educators at The Establishment, I am based out of Rochester, New York and I am stoked to help take this program “on the road” to educate individuals here in our community.

What do I love most about my job? Getting to build relationship with all sorts of people from different walks of life and helping them get a handle on their financial future.

I am proud to call Rochester home where I live with my wife Jen and our daughter, Francesca.

You should know

Adventure seeker and self-proclaimed bourbon snob. Find me in summer enjoying some down time in the beautiful Finger Lakes.

fun facts

Super power of choice

Flying

Would like to learn more about

Being "handy"

Binge worthy

Chester Cab deep dish pizza

Would order this at the bar

Bourbon

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Derek Szczupakowski

dszczupakowski@TheEstablishmentNYS.com
716.817.6667

my story

My life in Buffalo started with a Finance concentration within the bachelors of Business Management program at UB. I was hired during my senior year of college, and I've found my home here at MassMutual New York State. I loved the city so much I never left.

It’s hard to consider your financial future now when you think time is on your side. But, there is no better time than now to get serious about your money. The most rewarding part of my job is knowing that the work that I do makes a dramatic impact on the lives of others.

This career keeps me busy; no two days are ever alike. In my free time I am actively involved with the Alzheimer’s Association here in Buffalo. I am an avid golfer, bowler, and Bills fan. In Western New York those are all seasonal things, so it tends to keep me busy all year round!

I am happy to call Williamsville home with my wife Jackie and our son, Jude who we recently welcomed into the world. Seeing the resurgence in the city, and the pride of my fellow Buffalonians has been an amazing experience. Buffalo is everything I could want from a city and more!

You should know

Find me relaxing after a round of golf with a Vodka Gimlet. Committed to helping people plan for the future they want.

fun facts

Song that never gets old:

In My Life by The Beatles

Can't live without:

My wife and kids

Most used emoji:

:)

Favorite book:

The Stand by Stephen King