Jesse Ernst, 36

Occupation: Founder/Owner, Speaker and Coach, Ernst Financial Solutions, LLC

What I do: I am CEO—”Chief Everything Officer.”

How I got started: I was in a career transition phase a few years back, and the opportunity presented itself to go through Dave Ramsey’s Financial Coach Master Training and get my coaching certification. That was in 2020 and things blossomed from there.

I’m passionate about finances because: The opportunity to launch my own coaching practice, where I can serve my clients in the way I’m most passionate about, fills me with excitement. To see lives change and even generational wealth shift as a result inspires me to show up and serve my clients every day.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far: Guiding my clients to pay off over $3 milliom dollars of debt in the last four years!

When I’m not working on people’s finances: I enjoy spending time with my wife and daughter and I love to travel!

My first job: I was in construction at a truss factory.

My local mentor: My wife, Claire, who owns Claire’s Creperie in Mount Dora, always inspires me. She’s why I felt the confidence to launch my business.

The best advice I’ve received: Delayed gratification is not denied gratification.

Fun fact: I grew up in Mexico and read, write and speak Spanish fluently.

If I had a million dollars to give away: The Forward Paths Foundation. And it is right here in Lake County.

Life after 40: Still serving clients face-to-face while expanding that reach to do more public speaking and working with larger companies toward financial freedom, thereby maximizing the impact of Ernst Financial Solutions.