Pathway Financial Services: Empowering Clients on Their Journey to Financial Independence

In today’s fast-paced world, managing financial challenges requires more than just a high income. Financial freedom isn't simply about earning more; it’s about making smarter decisions with what you already have. This core belief fuels Pathway Financial Services, a company dedicated to guiding clients on their individual pathways to financial security and independence.

Founded by Jen Mulder, Pathway Financial Services stands as a beacon for individuals and businesses looking for personalized financial planning advice. With a deep-rooted commitment to trust, transparency, and responsible decision-making, Pathway’s approach is designed to meet clients where they are and help them achieve their financial goals, whether that's saving for a dream home, securing a comfortable retirement, or preparing for estate planning.

A Vision Rooted in Empathy and Expertise

Jen Mulder, who founded Pathway Financial Services after her graduation from the UCLA Personal Financial Planning Program, has always believed that great financial planning begins with great relationships. "Financial planning isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Everyone has different goals, challenges, and dreams. That’s why we take the time to truly understand the unique needs of each client, helping them make informed decisions about their money," says Mulder.

Mulder’s journey to creating Pathway began during one of the most turbulent financial times in recent history—the 2008 financial crisis. As a young planner with Cetera Advisor Network, Jen witnessed firsthand how people navigated some of their most difficult financial times. “Seeing the positive impact that sound financial advice had on people in need was eye-opening," Mulder recalls. "It planted the seed for what eventually became Pathway Financial Services.”

A Tailored Approach to Financial Freedom

At Pathway, the company’s core philosophy is built on a simple premise: achieving financial freedom is about setting specific goals, crafting actionable strategies, and sticking to them. The firm’s services span a wide range of financial needs, from estate planning and retirement savings to investing and educational gifting. Every service is designed with a single goal in mind: helping clients actualize their dreams.

“We help people understand that true financial independence is achievable by doing more with what they already have. Setting goals, creating strategies, and taking actionable steps toward those goals is at the heart of our process,” Mulder emphasizes.

Building Trust Through Relationships

What sets Pathway Financial Services apart is its focus on building relationships that last. Through open, two-way communication, Pathway fosters an environment where trust is paramount. “We prioritize reciprocity and loyalty with our clients, delivering high-quality service that aligns with their unique objectives," Mulder explains.

This relationship-first approach has led to a long history of client success stories. Mulder finds great satisfaction in seeing clients’ dreams come true—whether it’s a client purchasing their first home or a couple planning for a stress-free retirement. "What motivates me the most is when people realize their dreams with the financial tools we’ve helped them implement," she says.

The Pathway Financial Services Difference

Jen’s leadership style is grounded in making reasonable expectations and responsible decisions. As an active member of the Los Angeles Chapter of the Financial Planning Association, she believes in promoting financial literacy and offering educational workshops to help people take control of their finances. These workshops, which cover everything from basic investing to retirement planning, offer valuable resources and individualized guidance to attendees.

Jen’s firm also embraces a transparent fee structure that puts the client’s interests first. Pathway’s fee-only model ensures that clients are never caught off guard by hidden fees, and investment management services are priced fairly based on the complexity of each client’s needs.

A Personal Touch

When she’s not helping clients navigate their financial journeys, Jen enjoys spending time with her wife, Tara, cooking and relaxing on the beach. "The work we do at Pathway is about making life easier for our clients, and that includes being able to enjoy the fruits of their labor. Personally, I find peace in the simple things—cooking with my wife or taking in the serenity of the beach," says Mulder.

Jen and Tara look forward to traveling again, exploring new cultures, foods, and wines—a reminder of the value of work-life balance and the rewards that come from careful planning and execution.

Empowering the Future of Financial Planning

Pathway Financial Services is more than just a financial planning firm—it’s a guiding partner for individuals and businesses alike, offering the expertise and tools to make informed, strategic financial decisions. Jen Mulder’s commitment to empowering clients and fostering lasting relationships has made Pathway a trusted name in financial planning. For those seeking financial independence, Pathway is ready to help them take the first step toward a future of security and success.

As Pathway continues to grow and evolve, Jen remains steadfast in her mission to help clients navigate the path to financial freedom, one carefully crafted plan at a time.

Jen Mulder, Founder 

“We help people understand that true financial independence is achievable by doing more with what they already have. Setting goals, creating strategies, and taking actionable steps toward those goals is at the heart of our process.”