Michelle

For Michelle, a dedicated educator and business management teacher, financial freedom wasn’t just about numbers—it was about gaining control, flexibility and peace of mind for herself and her family.

Michelle and her husband first discovered Everything Financial through Peter’s radio show. While initially hesitant to involve a third party in their finances, Peter’s trusted voice and clear expertise ultimately won them over. Three years ago, as Michelle’s husband approached retirement, they took a leap of faith and consolidated their financial planning with Everything Financial.

“We didn’t have concerns going in—we had trust in Peter,” Michelle says. “It felt like the right time, especially as we were commuting my pension.”

For many teachers, retirement after age 55 is the norm, with pensions often acting as “golden handcuffs.” But Peter’s guidance helped Michelle unlock a path few knew was even possible: commuting her pension at 55 and taking control of that lump sum. The result? A better financial outcome than continuing to work full-time, and a newfound freedom to work as a Teacher on Call when and if she chooses.

“Because of Peter’s advice, I’m financially better off. I retired early, bought an apartment in Victoria, and now I have the flexibility to live life on my terms.”

Michelle credits the Omni Formula—Everything Financial’s comprehensive planning model—for the security and success she enjoys today. The gradual rollout of the plan gave her time to absorb, reflect and make confident decisions about each step.

“It wasn’t just about investments,” she explains. “They helped us with tax strategies, estate planning and even connected us with notaries and realtors. Everything was thought through—for the next 50 years.”

Her financial plan even considers her son’s future needs. “My son has Asperger’s and may never earn a professional income. Taking the lump sum from my pension means it won’t die with me. I feel a huge sigh of relief knowing he’ll be taken care of.”

What makes Everything Financial stand out, Michelle says, is not only Peter’s passion and expertise but the strength of the entire team. “There’s a real succession plan in place. Watching younger team members like Trevor grow into their roles gives me confidence that my family’s financial well-being is in good hands.”

Today, Michelle and her husband are not only managing their own financial future but also helping their children build theirs. “We’re piggybacking our kids’ investments with ours. Everything is taken care of—financially and legally.”

Before partnering with Everything Financial, Michelle was on the verge of burnout in a demanding education system. “Now, I love teaching again. I get to choose when and how I work. I’ve run into colleagues who look tired and worn down, but I’ve got energy and purpose again.”

With their finances secure, Michelle and her husband enjoy travel (including a month-long European trip), hiking, running, crocheting and time with family. “I can even take fun jobs like working at FedEx just because I want to.”

Michelle’s advice is clear: “Start earlier. Don’t wait. Having a plan makes all the difference. A great advisor should be trustworthy, knowledgeable and part of a team that truly understands your goals. That’s what we found in Everything Financial.”

Today, Michelle embodies what financial freedom looks like: peace of mind, family security and the power to choose how she lives, works and enjoys life. Thanks to Everything Financial, she’s not just prepared for retirement—she’s thriving in it.

Ready to take control of your financial future? Connect with the team at Everything Financial and discover what’s possible when you have the right plan—and the right people—by your side.