Welcome back to our “Meet the Team” series! We’re excited to introduce you to the newest member of our team, someone who will be instrumental in ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience as you come on board with us. If you missed our last introduction, you can catch up here.

Today, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Paisley Mederios, our new Onboarding Coordinator. Please enjoy this interview to get to know Paisley a little better and see how she will help guide you through every step of the onboarding process!

Can you share a little about your background and what led you to join Warren Street as the Onboarding Coordinator?

What part of the onboarding process do you think is most important for building long-lasting relationships with clients?

The onboarding process is the foundation of any strong client relationship. Just like building a house, it’s essential to lay a solid foundation from the start. While every relationship is unique and may have different needs, there are three key aspects that I believe are universally important: being reliable, providing reassurance, and maintaining transparency. These actions help build trust—the cornerstone of any long-lasting partnership.

What skills or experiences do you bring to this role that will help our clients have the best possible experience during onboarding?

I pride myself on being a problem-solver and an active listener, qualities that I believe are vital during the onboarding process. In my previous role at a wealth management firm, I worked directly with clients to address a variety of concerns, such as resolving issues and answering questions regarding their accounts.

How does Warren Street align with your personal values?

One of my biggest concerns when considering a career path was finding a company that prioritized people over profit. Warren Street’s commitment to putting clients’ best interests first is one of the main reasons I’m so excited to be here. In addition, accountability and transparency are values that have always been important to me, both personally and professionally. Whether it’s being a reliable friend or a trusted team member, I strive to create an environment where others feel supported. I look forward to bringing these same values to the clients I work with, especially when it comes to helping them feel more confident and in control of their financial futures.

What are you most excited about in your new role?

I’m truly excited to build meaningful relationships with our clients and to help guide them through the onboarding process with ease. One of my core goals is to make clients feel seen and heard from day one. There’s something so rewarding about helping people feel more confident and supported as they begin their journey with us.

Who or what motivates you?

My family has always motivated me to strive for excellence, whether it’s through leadership, hard work, or compassion for others. These values have shaped who I am today, and I carry them into my work. Just like my family, I aim to show up with passion and dedication every day, making sure our clients receive the best possible experience.

What’s something clients might be surprised to learn about you? Provide three fun facts.

1. I stand at a tall 4’9″, but I have a personality that packs a punch! Growing up, my nickname was “spark plug.” I try to bring a lot of optimism and joy to those around me.
2. My handwriting is in all caps. I never had neat or “girly” handwriting and found that writing in all caps was more legible, but also a representation of how I like to bring a different perspective to the table.
3. I love a challenge, especially if it includes an adventure. I plan to hike the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim in October of this year.

We hope this interview gives you a closer look at how Paisley will be supporting you throughout your journey with us. We’re so excited to have her on the team and can’t wait for you to experience her dedication firsthand! Stay tuned for more team introductions coming soon.

Jennifer Battles

Director of Operations, Warren Street Wealth Advisors

Investment Advisor Representative, Warren Street Wealth Advisors, LLC., a Registered Investment Advisor

The information presented here represents opinions and is not meant as personal or actionable advice to any individual, corporation, or other entity. Any investments discussed carry unique risks and should be carefully considered and reviewed by you and your financial professional. Nothing in this document is a solicitation to buy or sell any securities, or an attempt to furnish personal investment advice. Warren Street Wealth Advisors may own securities referenced in this document. Due to the static nature of content, securities held may change over time and current trades may be contrary to outdated publications. Form ADV available upon request 714-876-6200.

We are excited to introduce Ernest Jones, a seasoned CPA and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) with over a decade of experience in the accounting field. Ernest brings a wealth of knowledge and a personalized approach to serving small business owners, helping them navigate the intricacies of tax and business consulting. 

Please enjoy this interview to give you a deeper understanding of who Ernest is and how he serves you!

Can you share a bit about your professional background and what led you to specialize in tax?

I graduated from the University of Nevada Las Vegas with a Bachelor’s and later a Master’s in Accounting. My career began at a local CPA firm in Las Vegas, where I gained experience in various areas of accounting, from payroll tax filings to conducting financial statement audits. Over time, I found myself gravitating more towards income tax and business consulting, which sparked my interest in working directly with small business owners. This eventually led me to establish my own practice, where I help clients navigate the complexities of taxes and the administrative side of running their businesses.

What excites you about joining our team and working with our clients?

I’ve worked closely with the Warren Street team now for the better part of 7 years, so I feel like I already am part of the team, and we’ve already worked together on some mutual clients already. I’m looking forward to more fully integrating into the team and working to continue to get better results for clients.

What is your philosophy when it comes to creating tax strategies for clients?

Keeping it simple. No one likes paying tax, but I’ve found that doing the basics of tax planning are more fruitful—as opposed to falling down the rabbit hole of the latest social media post that promises tax savings through questionable strategies.

What are some of your key accomplishments in your career that you’re most proud of?

I have a handful of feather-in-the-cap stories where I was able to save taxpayers a few hundred thousand dollars in taxes. I even have a story where I got a taxpayer back a million dollars in overpaid taxes. I think every tax professional will have a few of those stories, and it is hokey to say this, but the most meaningful have been the client interactions where I’ve caught a taxpayer when they haven’t filed for a few years. The client didn’t think they would ever be able to get it resolved or addressed. Those clients are always the most appreciative, and the key thing I’ve learned from that is that any monumental task is best approached by breaking it down into steps and taking it one step at a time.

Who or what motivates you? 

My wife, Sandra.

What are three fun facts about you?

1. I make craft cocktails. It was something I took up during the pandemic because I really missed getting a high quality drink. I’ve gotten to the point where I make my own clear ice.
2. I’ve been a UNLV men’s basketball season ticket holder for the past 15 years.
3. I’m born and raised in Las Vegas and still reside here.

We are thrilled to welcome Ernest to the team! His extensive background in accounting, passion for helping small business owners, and commitment to providing personalized service make him an invaluable addition to our firm. With Ernest on board, we look forward to continuing to offer our clients the outstanding support and care they deserve. Welcome, Ernest—we’re excited to have you with us!

Jennifer Battles

Director of Operations, Warren Street Wealth Advisors

Investment Advisor Representative, Warren Street Wealth Advisors, LLC., a Registered Investment Advisor

The information presented here represents opinions and is not meant as personal or actionable advice to any individual, corporation, or other entity. Any investments discussed carry unique risks and should be carefully considered and reviewed by you and your financial professional. Nothing in this document is a solicitation to buy or sell any securities, or an attempt to furnish personal investment advice. Warren Street Wealth Advisors may own securities referenced in this document. Due to the static nature of content, securities held may change over time and current trades may be contrary to outdated publications. Form ADV available upon request 714-876-6200.

Since our last “Meet the Team” series, we’ve welcomed two new members, Bryan Cassick and Jennifer “JB” Battles, to our Warren Street family. However, today we want to shine a spotlight on an existing team member who has recently been promoted. We had the pleasure of sitting down with Jennifer, who is now our Director of Sales & Marketing. Get to know more about Jennifer’s role, hobbies, and future goals. 

In your role as Director of Sales & Marketing, how do you assist Warren Street’s clients? 

I focus on client communication and strive to enhance the user experience, from your initial contact with us through your entire journey as a client. My responsibilities include managing email campaign communications, such as the quarterly newsletter you receive. Additionally, I plan and host events, including our annual client appreciation event, which is our way of thanking you for your support and loyalty.

How does Warren Street align with your personal values?

At Warren Street, we place a strong emphasis on passion. I strive to live my daily life engaged in activities that truly matter to me. I do not want to live a life that feels idle or mundane. My work is driven by genuine enthusiasm and purpose—I am here because I want to be, not because I have to be. This passion fuels my commitment to making a meaningful impact both in my role and in the lives of our clients.

What do you love most about working at Warren Street?

One of the things I appreciate most about Warren Street is the incredible flexibility, as our entire team operates remotely. Despite being spread out across the country, I feel very close to my team members, to the point where I consider them my family. We stay connected through regular activities, such as our monthly lunch club. Additionally, when we meet our annual sales goals, we celebrate with a special trip called “Path To,” where we enjoy our success together. 

What is your biggest accomplishment thus far?

My biggest accomplishment is stepping into the role of Director of Sales & Marketing. It comes with many responsibilities, but I am ready to grow in this position and serve you proudly.

Who or what motivates you?

My parents are my biggest motivation. They immigrated from Vietnam without knowing any English and with zero dollars in their pockets. Despite facing immense struggles and making countless sacrifices, they worked tirelessly to create a better future and provide a better life for my sister and me. Their dedication drives me to give back even a fraction of what they’ve given me.

What are your aspirations?

I absolutely love traveling, and my dream is to visit at least 100 countries in my lifetime. I’ve already explored various countries in Southeast Asia and recently visited Iceland in March 2024. Among all the places I’ve been to thus far, Japan has been my favorite. I highly recommend everyone to experience its unique culture and beauty firsthand someday!

What are three fun facts about you?

1. I own over 100 plushies of Winnie the Pooh, my favorite character of all time. 
2. I have visited 31 of the 50 states. 
3. I have an Etsy shop with my cousin, where we sell hand-made amigurumi plushies. Follow us on Instagram @QTWorks!

Get to know our other team members, including Aileen Obedoza and Emily Balmages. Let’s congratulate Jennifer on her new role as Director of Sales & Marketing. 

Veronica Cabral

Director of Operations & Chief Compliance Officer, Warren Street Wealth Advisors

Investment Advisor Representative, Warren Street Wealth Advisors, LLC., a Registered Investment Advisor

The information presented here represents opinions and is not meant as personal or actionable advice to any individual, corporation, or other entity. Any investments discussed carry unique risks and should be carefully considered and reviewed by you and your financial professional. Nothing in this document is a solicitation to buy or sell any securities, or an attempt to furnish personal investment advice. Warren Street Wealth Advisors may own securities referenced in this document. Due to the static nature of content, securities held may change over time and current trades may be contrary to outdated publications. Form ADV available upon request 714-876-6200.

Warren Street is growing! Meet our newest Client Service Associate, Jennifer Battles, who goes by “JB.” Located in Georgia, JB is thrilled to get to know our clients and help support their financial needs. 

Please enjoy this interview to give you a deeper understanding of who JB is and how she helps support you!

In your role as Client Service Associate, how do you assist Warren Street’s clients?

I take care of all their service needs, from the time they’re opening a new account, to cashiering, to trade requests. I handle any questions they have about their accounts or if they need to change anything. 

What impact do you hope to make at Warren Street?

This is hard — how do I put this in words? I always ask my kids what they want to bring to people, and I think what I would say is that I hope to bring peace and joy and hopefulness. I always want to be a help, whatever that looks like. 

How does Warren Street align with your personal values? 

I’ve always been passionate about people, which I know is also a core value of Warren Street’s. I’m a helper (Enneagram 2!) and already get the sense the Warren Street team is the same way.

Who or what motivates you? 

My 99-year-old grandmother. She had 11 kids, and she’s never faltered in anything she’s believed in. She’s originally from England and came over with my mom on the Queen Mary, just the neatest person. You could ask her anything, and she’ll tell you like she remembers it from yesterday. She’s very witty and even taught creative movement to preschoolers until age 93.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I love to be outside with my daughters: Emily, who is married and 25, and Caroline, 19. We paddleboard, hike, you name it. Sometimes we bring along our golden doodle, Dudley, on walks, but a walk with him is really more of a run! I also love food — I don’t know how people can’t love good food.

What are three fun facts about you?

1) I call bingo at the assisted living place around the corner from my home. It’s a lot of fun!

2) I had a food truck — called Char-CUTE-erie — during Covid. The truck’s name was Rosemary; we basically converted a two-horse trailer into a food truck. 

3) I’m passionate about helping people feel noticed and important. For example, I’m close with my local Starbucks community and joke that I’ve adopted some of the employees. We’ll have Thanksgiving with them or celebrate with them when they move on to other jobs. My hope is that they feel noticed when they are with us!

We’re thrilled to have JB on the team and hope you’ll join us in extending her a warm welcome.

Want to get to know the rest of the Warren Street family? Check out the rest of our “Meet the Team” blog series. 

Veronica Cabral

Director of Operations & Chief Compliance Officer, Warren Street Wealth Advisors

Investment Advisor Representative, Warren Street Wealth Advisors, LLC., a Registered Investment Advisor

The information presented here represents opinions and is not meant as personal or actionable advice to any individual, corporation, or other entity. Any investments discussed carry unique risks and should be carefully considered and reviewed by you and your financial professional. Nothing in this document is a solicitation to buy or sell any securities, or an attempt to furnish personal investment advice. Warren Street Wealth Advisors may own securities referenced in this document. Due to the static nature of content, securities held may change over time and current trades may be contrary to outdated publications. Form ADV available upon request 714-876-6200.

Welcome to our current edition of “Meet the Team.” We sat down with Emily Balmages, Director of Financial Planning at Warren Street, to learn more about her role, hobbies, and goals for the future. Join us in getting to know Emily below!

In your role as Director of Financial Planning, how do you assist Warren Street’s clients?

In collaboration with the rest of the team, I help families organize their finances. We proactively work to help them find ways they can grow their assets and portfolios, while saving on taxes.

Most importantly, our team is here to make sure clients have a professional in their corner, looking after the big-picture of their financial lives. Our goal is to take financial management off their plates, so they can focus on doing things they enjoy — whether that’s traveling, running their own business, spending more time with loved ones, or enjoying the retirement that they have worked so hard to save for.  Clients can trust us to watch over the financial aspects of their lives. Most of my clients have spent the bulk of their lives working hard to get to the point where they can retire – I want to help them enjoy it! 

On a personal level, as director, it’s my job to make sure we consistently deliver a high-quality experience to clients. That means keeping our team educated on industry happenings and tax law changes; managing our network of professional partners (CPAs, attorneys, and insurance agents); and researching emerging technology solutions.

How does Warren Street align with your personal values?

The top core value at Warren Street is putting our clients’ best interests first. This aligns perfectly with my personal value of “Do the right thing, no matter what,” even if it’s hard, even if it’s scary. I try to live by that rule in my personal life — and that commitment extends seamlessly into my professional life at Warren Street, where we are all Fiduciaries committed to acting in our clients’ best interests.

Another personal value of mine that I share with Warren Street is how family-oriented our group is. We are all 100% committed to our work but also 100% committed to our families, and that’s something I value a lot. Every leader here wants each person to succeed in their job, while still having a strong family life. 

What do you love most about working at Warren Street?

For one, I love my clients!  Often our relationships extend beyond financial conversations and we get to become close friends.  I also love that I get to work with the incredible Warren Street team — truly hardworking, thoughtful, generous people.  

Who or what motivates you?

I was raised by wonderful parents. They were always so dependable, generous, and considerate of the people around them. I am very inspired to reach that same level in both a personal and professional capacity.

I’m also passionate about financial literacy: simplifying financial advice to help families and individuals understand financial topics. It’s my goal to help people feel confident about their financial situations and the decisions they’re making — especially when going through life transitions such as a retirement, birth, marriage, divorce, or death. Those events can be a shock to our lives and a shock to our financial goals.  Knowing I can help people weather those storms is incredibly motivating. 

What are three fun facts about you?

1. I can juggle. My dad taught me when I was very young. It’s a rite of passage in my family that the kids learn to juggle at a young age!
2. We go to the UC Berkeley family camp in the Sierras — Lair of the Golden Bear — every year. I’ve attended since my childhood and I enjoy  continuing the tradition with my family.
3. My 19-year-old daughter and I became weightlifting partners during the pandemic, and we love it! We go three days a week and have a lot of fun with it. 

What are your aspirations?

Professionally, I aspire to carry on Cary and Blake’s momentum with the firm, continuing to scale and grow Warren Street while still providing client-focused service, based on relationships.

Personally, my husband and I are on a mission to try every brewery in Orange County (recommendations welcome). 🙂

Have questions about your finances? Emily will be happy to meet with you and address any questions you may have. Click here to schedule a complimentary consultation with her. 

Veronica Torres

Director of Operations & Chief Compliance Officer, Warren Street Wealth Advisors

Investment Advisor Representative, Warren Street Wealth Advisors, LLC., a Registered Investment Advisor

The information presented here represents opinions and is not meant as personal or actionable advice to any individual, corporation, or other entity. Any investments discussed carry unique risks and should be carefully considered and reviewed by you and your financial professional. Nothing in this document is a solicitation to buy or sell any securities, or an attempt to furnish personal investment advice. Warren Street Wealth Advisors may own securities referenced in this document. Due to the static nature of content, securities held may change over time and current trades may be contrary to outdated publications. Form ADV available upon request 714-876-6200.