Her Story
About Mary Lou
Mary Lou James, CFP® is a seasoned financial services professional with 43 years of experience dedicated to helping individuals, families, veterans, and military communities achieve greater financial confidence and security. As a Financial Advisor at Colomb Investment Management Company, LLC in Belleview, Florida, she specializes in financial protection, insurance strategies, wealth creation, investing, and education-driven financial planning. Mary Lou believes in empowering clients through knowledge rather than simply selling products, helping them uncover their financial goals and make informed decisions for their futures.
After earning her college degree in education and preparing for a career as a teacher, Mary Lou transitioned into financial services when teaching opportunities were limited. In the early years of her career, she became the first woman hired by her Boston-area financial company and later shifted her approach in 1991 toward an education-first philosophy. Over the past four decades, she has developed financial education programs designed to serve veterans, military families, and communities, including her work with a 1,000-member military fraternity and the American Dream Experience, which has reached more than 8,500 families. Through these initiatives, she continues to connect people with the resources and knowledge needed to build financial independence and generational wealth.
A Certified Financial Planner™ professional, Mary Lou attributes her success to her faith, resilience, determination, and commitment to creating opportunities for others. She credits her ability to overcome self-doubt, challenge expectations, and break new ground as key factors in her personal and professional journey. Passionate about mentoring the next generation of women leaders, she encourages young women entering financial services to gain strong foundational experience, pursue continuous education, seek knowledgeable mentors, and remain committed to growth and excellence. Through her work, Mary Lou continues to serve as a role model and advocate for financial empowerment.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Mary Lou
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success first and foremost to a kind and loving God who gave me the strength to overcome self-doubt, build confidence, and step beyond the limitations I once placed on myself. Entering the financial services industry in the 1980s was challenging, especially as a woman in a field where many believed women could not succeed. Those challenges fueled my determination to break new ground, pursue my vision, and prove that perseverance and dedication can overcome obstacles. I have always believed in staying committed to my goals, refusing to give up, and continuing forward even when the path was difficult. My greatest motivation is not only achieving success for myself but also serving as a role model and creating opportunities for other women to follow their own paths and reach their full potential.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering the financial services industry to build a strong foundation by gaining experience with a reputable insurance company, where they can receive valuable training and develop essential skills. The beginning of the journey requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to continuous learning, so I encourage them to pursue additional courses, expand their knowledge, and invest in their professional development. Finding experienced coaches and mentors, both men and women, who have achieved the level of success they aspire to is incredibly valuable. I also encourage women to be confident, ask questions, seek opportunities, and never be afraid to aim high because you never know what is possible until you ask.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The financial services industry is experiencing both significant challenges and tremendous opportunities. One of the key challenges is navigating the evolving role of artificial intelligence, balancing its potential benefits with the need to address risks, misinformation, and financial scams. The industry must also continue investing in people, strengthening professional development, and helping younger generations build essential communication and relationship skills in an increasingly digital environment. At the same time, the opportunities are limitless for those committed to innovation, education, and service. There is a growing need to create stronger communities, expand financial literacy, and provide underserved populations, including veterans and military families, with the resources and guidance needed to build financial confidence, create opportunities, and achieve long-term financial security.
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