Who We Are

William founded FocusYOU as a client-centered alternative to traditional financial sales and service. He recognized that people want service and advice with focus on their priorities and aspirations—their life—and not on the advisor or some company or product. As a truly independent CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, William’s only loyalty is to you—the client. William is passionate about working with women and families to achieve their financial and life goals and protect their lifestyles. He became a financial planner after witnessing the devastating effects that poor counsel had on his mother-in-law following the death of her husband. She lost her home, savings and sense of financial independence. He is deeply committed and works diligently to ensure others never face the same fate.

Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, William has lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for over 25 years.

1. What do you enjoy most about the work you do for FocusYOU?

I foster a non-judgmental, shame-free environment for both our employees and clients. I enjoy creating a No-Guilt Zone® safe space for people to share whatever financial challenge is weighing them down. No question is off limits, too simple, or embarrassing to ask!

2. What have you learned most about your current role at FocusYou?

There is too much noise in the world and as a result too many people are overwhelmed and have a hard time discerning information that’s relevant to them. My guiding principle is you’ve done the best you can with what you know. You’re an expert in what you do—not in personal finance. I believe that beating yourself up or holding on to past regrets doesn’t serve you. I help you cut through the noise to focus on what’s important and relevant to you.

3. Outside of work, what do you like to do for fun?

I am an avid sports fan (March Madness, NBA Playoffs and WNBA are my favorites) and enjoy music, food and road trips. I love the bonding moments with my son when he invites me to play video games with him and when we have family game nights. I also volunteer with organizations that are focused on children and families.

Rosanne has worked closely with William since 2006, providing extensive business experience to the team and service excellence to our clients. She is responsible for delivering an extraordinary client and prospective client experience. Rosanne also executes successful client events. Her background enables her to anticipate issues before they arise, and her problem-solving skills resolves them quickly and efficiently.

Favored by clients for her can-do attitude, she is admired for her ability to "cut to the chase" and address your needs in a professional and effective manner. Rosanne makes certain that client implementation stays on track and that nothing has been overlooked. She interfaces with all our strategic partners and remains the point person for your team, as the first point of contact for prospective clients.

Rosanne graduated from Antioch College with a BS in Business Administration.

1. What do you enjoy most about the work you do for FocusYOU?

I love our clients and talking with prospective clients! Our clients are always appreciative of what we do for them and let us know how much they value working with us. The camaraderie amongst our team members also extends to our clients. I feel very lucky to love what I do and get to use my extensive experience!

2. What have you learned most about your current role at FocusYOU?

While I thought I had a fairly decent understanding of financial matters due to my previous business experience, my 15 years with William has dramatically expanded my financial knowledge. I have become much more comfortable working with computers and no longer afraid of the “blue screen of death." I’ve also learned more patience - something difficult for an east coaster!

3. If you could choose one superhuman ability, what would it be?

While it might not be superhuman, I would choose to be a world class ballroom dancer. Or I would like to be able to fly - not in a plane but like Superman!

Crystal started working for FocusYOU in January of 2006. She brings extensive computer knowledge and internal support that enables the team to provide you with excellent client service and advice.

Crystal is responsible for the critical day-to-day back-office operational duties of our firm. She keeps the office running smoothly and ensures that all data, client paperwork, and processing is handled in a timely, accurate, and professional manner. Crystal attended Santa Rosa Junior College and earned her AA in Humanities, Sociology, Behavioral Studies, and Religious Studies.

1. What do you enjoy most about the work you do for FocusYOU?

I enjoy streamlining and simplifying processes. People carry a lot of emotional baggage and tell themselves negative stories when it comes to their money. Going through the financial life planning process enables people to see how their life and financial goals are achievable. I like being part of the team that ensures that the steps necessary for people to be successful are captured and implemented.

2. What have you learned most about your current role at FocusYOU?

I have learned how much nuance matters. We are all responsible for the decisions we make in our financial lives. Those decision points dictate which paths are best. I have taken the opportunity to embrace the financial advice that we offer and apply it in my life and aspirations.

3. Outside of work, what do you like to do for fun?

I like to play disc golf with my family. It’s such a fun and entertaining game that you can take with you to any outdoor setting. I am not the best at it, but I enjoy being outside in beautiful parks with my kids spending quality time together.