Episode 187: From Tech Executive to Trusted Financial Advisor: Anita Boghoussian's Journey
In this episode of Carlsbad People, Purpose & Impact, Carlsbad Chamber President and CEO Bret Schanzenbach sits down with Anita Boghoussian, Financial Advisor with Edward Jones, to discuss her remarkable journey from an immigrant family upbringing to a successful career in technology leadership and, ultimately, financial advising.
Anita shares how her family's pursuit of opportunity brought them from Iraq to Southern California, where she built a 25-year career in technology sales, cybersecurity, and executive leadership. After transitioning from the tech industry, she followed a long-standing passion for financial education and helping others navigate important life decisions.
The conversation explores the importance of financial planning, investment discipline, and understanding personal goals before making financial decisions. Anita emphasizes that successful investing is less about timing the market and more about creating a plan that aligns with an individual's future aspirations and risk tolerance.
The discussion also highlights Anita's deep involvement with the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, including her leadership in launching and growing one of the Chamber's most successful NetForce networking groups. Her commitment to community engagement, business development, and supporting fellow professionals reflects the collaborative spirit that helps drive Carlsbad's local economy.
Listeners will gain valuable insights on financial confidence, relationship-based advising, networking leadership, and the importance of creating a long-term vision for both personal and professional success.
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Introduction
Bret Schanzenbach:
Welcome to Carlsbad People, Purpose & Impact, an essential podcast for those who live, work, visit, and play in Carlsbad.
Today I'm joined by Anita Boghoussian, Financial Advisor with Edward Jones. Anita, welcome.
Anita Boghoussian:
Thank you for having me. I'm excited to be here.
Anita's Background
Bret:
You have a fascinating background. I noticed you're fluent in Armenian. Tell us your story.
Anita:
I was born in Iraq to an Armenian family and immigrated to the United States when I was eight years old. We settled first in Hollywood and later Glendale, where there is a large Armenian community. We spoke Armenian at home growing up and still do today.
My parents came to America seeking greater opportunities and a better life for our family.
Career in Technology
Bret:
You spent more than 25 years in technology. What was your career path?
Anita:
I began in inside sales and eventually advanced into director and vice president roles. I spent much of my career in technology sales, cybersecurity, and channel development. The common thread throughout my career was relationships and helping people succeed.
Why Financial Advising?
Anita:
I've always been passionate about investing, financial planning, and helping people make smart financial decisions. I often guided colleagues on topics like 401(k) plans and employee stock purchase programs.
After transitioning from the tech industry, I realized financial advising was the perfect opportunity to combine my experience helping people with my passion for financial education.
Helping Clients Navigate Uncertainty
Bret:
Many people get nervous when markets become volatile.
Anita:
That's where planning becomes critical. I focus on understanding each client's goals and creating a strategy aligned with those objectives.
If someone plans to purchase a home or car in the near future, those funds shouldn't necessarily be exposed to market volatility. We structure financial plans using different "buckets" for different goals.
Markets will fluctuate, but historically they've spent more time rising than falling. That's why I emphasize long-term discipline over attempting to time the market.
Building Financial Confidence
Anita:
Many people haven't fully explored what retirement actually looks like for them. We discuss lifestyle goals, travel plans, housing decisions, monthly expenses, and risk tolerance.
Financial planning isn't about judgment. Everyone's journey is different. My role is to serve as an educational partner who helps clients understand their options and make informed decisions.
Carlsbad and Chamber Involvement
Bret:
You've become incredibly active within the Carlsbad Chamber. What attracted you?
Anita:
I had heard wonderful things about Carlsbad for many years. Once I learned how engaged and supportive the Chamber was, I knew I wanted to be part of the community.
The Chamber genuinely focuses on helping local businesses succeed and creating meaningful relationships.
Building NetForce 6
Anita:
When I discovered there weren't openings for financial advisors in existing NetForce groups, I asked if I could start a new one.
I promoted the concept at Chamber events, recruited interested members, and worked closely with Chamber staff to launch the group.
Today, the group continues to grow because members are committed to supporting one another's success.
Community Leadership
Anita:
I enjoy participating in the Aging Services Committee because protecting seniors from scams and financial exploitation is important to me.
I also volunteer with Chamber programs and actively support opportunities that strengthen the local business community.
Closing Thoughts
Anita:
Everything starts with relationships, trust, and education. My goal is to help people feel confident about their financial future.