Jennie Nelson & Jenn Peña

Pursuit Wealth Planning: Building Relationships, Navigating Challenges, and Inspiring the Next Generation

What was the best piece of advice you received when you were just starting out, and how did it shape your early decisions?

We’ve had the privilege of learning from many successful people in our industry, and while it’s tough to choose just one piece of advice, these five stand out as the most impactful in shaping our journey:

1. Build relationships first, business second. Trust is your true currency. Listening well, remembering personal details, and genuinely caring about people turns prospects into lifelong clients.

2. Develop a specialty. You can’t be all things to all people. Defining who you serve best makes marketing easier and positions you as a go-to resource.

3. Master the art of asking questions. The best advisors don’t just provide answers—they uncover the deeper “why” behind clients’ goals.

4. Keep learning—always. Markets shift, laws change, products evolve. Staying curious and adaptable is non-negotiable.

5. Find mentors. Learning from those who’ve already built the career you aspire to is invaluable.

What’s a professional challenge that still keeps you up at night, and how are you navigating it?

As independent financial advisors, we wear many hats and face constantly changing challenges. Two of the biggest are:

• Emotional Contagion. Market swings create fear, greed, and panic—not just for clients, but for us too. The challenge lies in holding space for clients’ emotions without letting those same feelings cloud our judgment.

• Decision Fatigue. From technology investments to client portfolios, the sheer volume of daily decisions can be overwhelming.

We’ve learned to separate our “market brain” from our “business brain,” dedicating time to each and leaning on our team’s collective strengths. And when it comes to investing, having a clear philosophy helps us stay grounded, even when market noise gets loud.

What’s one accomplishment in your career that fills you with pride?

We’re most proud of building a practice that redefines financial planning. For us, it’s not just about numbers or transactions—it’s about creating an environment where clients feel educated, supported, and empowered to make confident financial decisions. That blend of innovation and personal connection is what makes our work meaningful.

What values guide the way you lead, create, or do business?

At Pursuit Wealth Planning, our values are the foundation of everything we do:

• Integrity — always acting in our clients’ best interests.

• Empathy — making space for open, honest conversations about money and life.

• Innovation — staying ahead of industry shifts to deliver modern solutions.

• Collaboration — leaning on teamwork to create stronger outcomes.

• Education & Empowerment — giving clients the clarity and confidence to turn dreams into reality.

 

How do you hope your work and story will inspire the next generation of women and girls?

We want young women to see that leadership, compassion, and purpose can go hand-in-hand with success. By sharing not just our wins but also our challenges, we show that growth comes from staying true to your values and learning along the way. We hope our story inspires women to trust their voice, claim their seat at the table, and create opportunities for themselves—and for those who follow.

What’s your favorite thing about your workspace—and what makes it feel like yours?

Our workspace feels more like a home than an office. Yes, the décor and location are wonderful, but what makes it special are the people and the shared energy. It’s a place filled with collaboration, laughter, and genuine care—for one another and for our clients. Every idea is welcomed, every challenge supported, and every success celebrated as a team. That sense of connection is what makes coming to work a joy.

Jennie Nelson, AAMS® and Jenn Peña, CFP®, CRPC® are co-owners of Pursuit Wealth Planning, an advice-based financial planning firm based in Littleton, Colorado. With over 30 years combined experience in the financial services industry, together they deliver a comprehensive planning experience—from the first meeting through regular reviews—providing education and support every step of the way.

Reprints of Boss Babes Magazine featuring Jennie Nelson and Jenn Pena are available here.