John Molinelli

My Story…

Growing up, I was captivated by the energy of the “Finance World”—the fast-moving stock market, Wall Street, and the thrill of financial success. At the time, I knew little about the true purpose of a career in finance, but it seemed exciting enough to pursue a degree in the field.

That same year, my father passed away suddenly. The loss was devastating not only emotionally, but also financially. My mother, though successful in her own business, was left with three children to support and the weight of financial uncertainty. Thankfully, my father, together with my uncle—a financial planner—had created a thoughtful financial plan that anticipated life’s “what-ifs.” With adjustments, that plan allowed us to remain in our home and pay for college.

Witnessing firsthand how financial planning provided confidence during one of life’s most difficult times changed my perspective. I no longer saw finance as a world of numbers and markets, but as a profession with the power to provide peace of mind and stability. That experience ignited my passion for helping families face life’s biggest challenges with confidence.

Today, as a financial planner, nothing gives me greater satisfaction than telling a client, “You can do it—you’re going to be okay,” and seeing the relief that follows.

I’ve spent more than twelve years in the financial services industry. I am a graduate of The College of New Jersey and earned my Master of Science in Personal Financial Planning from the College for Financial Planning in 2023, which also conferred the Master Planner Advanced Studies (MPAS™) designation. I hold the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification, with extensive training in investments, tax, estate planning, retirement strategies, insurance, and CFP Board’s rigorous Standards of Professional Conduct.

In addition, I hold several advanced designations:

Accredited Portfolio Management AdvisorSM (APMA®) – with expertise in portfolio construction, risk/return analysis, and asset allocation decisions.

Chartered Retirement Planning CounselorSM (CRPC®) – focusing on helping clients maximize Social Security, design retirement income strategies, navigate health care options, and manage both the emotional and financial transition into retirement.

Raised in Lawrenceville and a graduate of The Pennington School, I’m proud to maintain strong ties to the Mercer County community. I live in Monroe Township, New Jersey, with my wife Kate and our son Johnny. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends—often around a barbecue or Sunday dinner—watching Giants football, and playing golf.