Wesley Howard Triani, a seasoned financial planner with over 43 years of experience, has dedicated his life to guiding individuals and families through the complexities of Social Security and retirement planning. Based in East Patchogue, NY, Wesley’s expertise stems from decades of hands-on experience and a deeply ingrained commitment to service, shaped by his upbringing in Lindenhurst, Long Island.
Raised by a father who was a design engineer and school board president and a mother who was a leader in the church and multiple PTAs, Wesley learned early on the value of perseverance, community involvement, and integrity. Today, these lessons fuel his passion for helping clients build secure financial futures while balancing his personal interests, including songwriting, music, and fitness. With a fully equipped home gym and a dedication to lifelong learning, Wesley exemplifies how personal and professional growth can harmonize to create a fulfilling life.
What inspired you to become a financial planner, and how has your career evolved over the years?
My journey into financial planning began with my love for problem-solving and my desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Early in my career, I saw how financial uncertainty could impact families and how proper planning could bring peace of mind. Over the years, I’ve specialized in Social Security and retirement planning because I’ve seen firsthand how crucial these areas are for long-term stability.
My approach has evolved to focus on transparency and collaboration. I work on a flat-fee basis to ensure my clients feel confident about my recommendations, and I emphasize the importance of partnering with other professionals like insurance agents, accountants, and elder law or estate attorneys. This holistic method allows me to address every aspect of a client’s financial life, from maximizing Social Security benefits to ensuring their estate plans align with their goals.
How has your upbringing influenced the way you approach financial planning?
Growing up in Lindenhurst, Long Island, I was surrounded by strong role models. My father taught me the importance of diligence and service through his work as a design engineer and school board president. My mother, a community leader involved in church and PTA organizations, showed me the power of resilience and dedication.
Their influence shaped my belief that financial planning is about more than just numbers—it’s about relationships and trust. I approach each client with empathy, knowing that their financial decisions impact not only their futures but also their families. My parents’ example reminds me daily to work with integrity and to prioritize helping others above all else.
You emphasize collaboration in financial planning. Why is that so important?
Financial planning touches many areas—taxes, estate planning, insurance—and no single professional can be an expert in all of them. That’s why collaboration is key. I work closely with CPAs to navigate tax implications, elder law or estate attorneys to draft critical documents like wills, trusts, and healthcare directives, and insurance agents to ensure clients are protected against risks.
For example, I often recommend clients establish a durable power of attorney, a healthcare proxy, and a living will to ensure their wishes are respected if they become incapacitated. While I guide clients through understanding these needs, I rely on attorneys to ensure everything is legally sound. By bringing together a team of trusted professionals, we can create a comprehensive plan that addresses every detail of a client’s financial life.
What role does persistence play in your professional and personal life?
Persistence is at the core of everything I do. Early in my career, I learned that setbacks are inevitable, whether it’s a client initially rejecting a plan or navigating complex financial systems. Instead of seeing these moments as failures, I view them as opportunities to educate, adapt, and build trust.
This mindset carries into my personal life as well. Whether I’m crafting a song, hitting the gym, or tackling a challenge in my own financial planning, I know that success comes from consistent effort over time. Persistence isn’t just about pushing forward—it’s about staying aligned with your values and the goals that truly matter.
How do you balance your professional responsibilities with your personal passions?
For me, balance starts with setting clear priorities. My wife of over 42 years has been my greatest supporter, and I make it a point to nurture that relationship. Outside of work, I’m passionate about music, songwriting, and fitness. I’ve built a home gym to stay physically active where it is as much about mental clarity as it is about longevity.
These personal pursuits aren’t just hobbies—they’re essential to my well-being. They give me the energy and focus I need to show up fully for my clients. Balance doesn’t mean splitting your time equally; it means being fully present in whatever you’re doing at the moment.
What advice would you give someone just starting their financial planning journey?
Start early, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Financial planning can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Partnering with trusted professionals—whether it’s a financial planner, CPA, or attorney—can help you create a plan that aligns with your goals.
Also, don’t underestimate the power of small, consistent habits. Whether it’s contributing regularly to a retirement account or creating a budget, the steps you take today will compound over time. And remember, financial planning isn’t just about the money—it’s about creating the life you want and protecting the people you care about.
What’s the most rewarding part of your work?
The best part of what I do is seeing the relief and confidence on a client’s face when they realize they’re on the right track. Financial planning can be intimidating, but when I can simplify the process and empower someone to take control of their future, it’s incredibly rewarding. It’s not just about numbers—it’s about giving people the freedom to live their lives with peace of mind.
For me, that’s what this work is all about: helping others achieve their goals while staying true to my values of persistence, service, and lifelong growth.
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