press and media
Ellen Johnson is a national speaker who focuses on helping audiences better understand financial planning and decision-making.
Experience & Engagements
Ellen Johnson is a financial planner and national speaker who focuses on helping individuals understand complex financial topics. With a background in engineering and financial planning, she brings a structured approach to making financial decisions clearer and more approachable.
Ellen has spoken at industry conferences and events, sharing insights on financial planning and decision-making.
NAWL | Flourishing After 50 Affinity Group | 2025
Financial Health: Setting Yourself Up for Success in Retirement
Talk Description
Ellen presented to the National Association of Women Lawyers’ Flourishing After 50 Affinity Group on how to approach retirement with clarity and confidence. The session covered the key stages of retirement planning, often-overlooked risks like insurance gaps and the tax impact of inherited retirement accounts, and the life transitions women most commonly navigate along the way. Ellen also shared what to look for when hiring a financial advisor—including fiduciary status, compensation models, and the right questions to ask—and walked attendees through how modern financial plans actually work, leaving the group with practical tools and a clearer path toward their next chapter.
NAPFA Spring 2025 National Conference Speaker
Rethinking RIA Marketing: Standing Out Without Jargon or Confusion
Talk Description
In an industry where all financial advisors often look the same to clients, fee-only RIAs must communicate their unique value effectively to build trust and stand out. This session explores how traditional marketing messages fail to distinguish RIAs from commission based professionals, relying on jargon that alienates rather than educates clients. As a career switcher with a fresh perspective, I will share insights into how RIAs can rethink their language, highlight aligned incentives, and simplify complex concepts for better client understanding and retention. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to differentiate their practice in an increasingly skeptical and informed marketplace.
Speaking Approach
Ellen’s presentations focus on breaking down complex financial concepts into clear, understandable ideas. Her goal is to help audiences feel more confident navigating financial decisions.
Ellen speaks to individuals and organizations looking to better understand financial planning and improve decision-making.