Amanda McHugh Stilwell, IAR, NSSA®, RSSA®, CLTC®

I attribute my success to more than 10 years of experience in the financial services field and the unique career journey that led me from working in home health and hospice to becoming a holistic fiduciary planner. Seeing families struggle with the financial challenges of extended care inspired me to provide community education on Medicare and long-term care options. I am passionate about helping clients prepare for retirement by uncovering their goals, navigating income and expenses, and developing tax-efficient distribution strategies that support their long-term needs. I also credit my success to the strong education I received at Furman University and the University of South Carolina, where I graduated in 1998 with a degree in Business Computer Science.

The best career advice I’ve ever received is to work hard, stay committed to making a meaningful difference, and never stop learning. My education at the University of South Carolina and Furman University provided a strong foundation, while my professional credentials and ongoing development have allowed me to serve clients with greater knowledge and confidence. As an independent investment advisor and Series 65 fiduciary and IAR, with certifications in long-term care and as a National Social Security Analyst, I believe in continually expanding my expertise. My involvement with organizations such as the Society of Financial Awareness (SOFA), Certified Senior Advisor (CSA), and local chambers of commerce has also reinforced the importance of professional engagement, community involvement, and using my knowledge to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

My advice to young women entering this industry is to work hard, believe in yourself, and never be afraid to take calculated risks. Three years ago, I took the leap to start my own business, and it has been one of the most rewarding decisions of my career. I also encourage women to stay engaged in their communities and use their success to make a difference. My involvement with Greenville Women Giving, where members collectively contribute and select organizations to support each year, and volunteering with Meals on Wheels through my company have been especially meaningful to me. I am also proud of the professional recognition I have received, including Million Dollar Round Table and Tip of the Triangle recognition in marketing, which have reinforced the value of hard work, perseverance, and service.

One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in my field right now is being a business owner and operator. Running my own business requires me to balance serving clients at the highest level with managing the many responsibilities that come with ownership, including operations, business development, compliance, and continued growth. At the same time, being a business owner gives me the opportunity to build a practice based on my values, develop meaningful relationships with clients and the community, and create a lasting impact through the work I do.

The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are compassion, service, integrity, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. I find the greatest fulfillment in helping people feel confident and at peace about their financial future, especially when I can introduce them to options and opportunities they did not realize were available to them. Knowing that my guidance can provide greater clarity, confidence, and peace of mind is one of the most rewarding aspects of what I do.