In Conversation with Jessica Y. Jung: Crafting Wealth with Clarity and Purpose

From classical piano to complex portfolios, Jessica Y. Jung, CFP®, brings precision and heart to the financial lives of families, business owners, and high-net-worth individuals. As the President and Founder of Vast Wealth Advisors, Jessica opens up about her journey, her passion for helping others grow their wealth, and the principles that shape her work.

Q: Jessica, let’s begin at the start. How did your early life influence the path you chose in finance?

JJ: I was born in Seoul, South Korea, and my family immigrated to Florida when I was two. Later, I attended boarding school at the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics. That experience instilled discipline and structure early on. Then at Vanderbilt, where I earned my degree in economics, I realized that I wanted to combine analytical thinking with meaningful, people-centered work. Finance became that bridge.

A big influence on that journey was my dad. He was a finance professor and the reason I became interested in the field. He taught me the values of discipline, perseverance, and hard work – all hallmarks of many immigrant parents who want their children to succeed. He also emphasized taking care of my body to stay sharp and productive, and as an avid reader himself, he instilled in me a deep love for reading that continues to shape how I learn and grow.

Q: You’ve been helping clients since 2005. Can you walk us through your professional journey?

JJ: I began my career at Morgan Stanley as a financial advisor.  I was recruited to join a team with two senior advisors at AmSouth Investment Services.  AmSouth became Morgan Keegan through a merger.  I decided to become an independent advisor in 2010 and joined LPL Financial. Each role gave me a deeper understanding of both markets and financial strategies. In 2021, I founded Vast Wealth Advisors with a desire to create a culture of excellence in client service and financial planning. That step allowed me to provide independent, tailored advice while still offering robust institutional resources.

Q: As a CFP®, how does that credential shape the way you work?

JJ: Being a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ is about holding yourself to the highest standard—ethically and professionally. It’s a fiduciary commitment, which means I’m legally and morally bound to act in my clients’ best interest. That’s not just a legal box to tick. It’s how I’ve always worked. Clients deserve transparency and trust in every conversation.

Q: What kinds of clients do you typically serve at Vast Wealth Advisors?

JJ: My clients are high-net-worth individuals and families, executives, professionals, and business owners. They’re often navigating complex financial landscapes—planning business exits, managing multi-generational wealth, or facing significant tax and estate considerations. My role is to simplify that complexity, align their finances with their vision, and help them make confident, long-term decisions to produce a better financial outcome.

Q: Can you share an example of how you help clients navigate those complex decisions?

JJ: Sure. One client, a small business owner nearing retirement, had most of their wealth tied up in the business. We created a multi-phase exit strategy, layered with estate and tax reduction planning, that allowed them to sell their business on their terms, protect their assets, and maintain their lifestyle. It wasn’t just about numbers. It was about legacy and confidence in retirement.

Q: What differentiates your approach from other advisors in the industry?

JJ: Customization. Every plan is built from the ground up. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Whether it’s advanced insurance strategies, investment management, or tax minimization, each element is designed around the client’s goals and values. I also maintain strong relationships—with clients and with industry peers—so I’m constantly learning and bringing fresh strategies to the table.

Q: You split your time between Nashville and Palo Alto. How does that reflect your work and values?

JJ: It’s about staying connected. I have clients coast to coast. Being present in both Tennessee and California allows me to meet clients where they are—literally and figuratively. Different markets, different challenges. It also keeps me sharp. Diversity of thought and location is important in wealth management.

Q: You’re also very active in professional and philanthropic circles. Why is that important to you?

JJ: Giving back and staying involved is part of who I am. I support causes like Autism Speaks, St. Jude, Nashville Rescue Mission, and Special Olympics because they do amazing work, and I want to uplift the communities I serve. On the professional side, I’m a board member with Partners Financial, and involved with the Financial Planning Association and FINSECA. It keeps me accountable and connected to the latest in the field.

Q: Outside of work, you’re an accomplished classical pianist and fitness enthusiast. How do those pursuits impact your day-to-day?

JJ: Playing the piano keeps me grounded. It requires focus and presence—same with fitness. These activities are more than hobbies; they help me recharge and stay mentally agile. That balance is what allows me to bring full energy and clarity to my work with clients.

Q: Finally, what’s your biggest hope for the future of financial planning?

JJ: That more people feel empowered, not overwhelmed, by their finances. Planning should be a source of confidence, not stress. And I hope we see more diverse voices and perspectives in the industry—it benefits everyone when we lead with empathy and expertise.

Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. Vast Wealth Advisors and Cambridge are not affiliated.  Cambridge does not offer tax or legal advice.  These testimonials are based upon an individual client experience and may not represent the experience of other customers, and should not be considered a guarantee or indication of future performance or success.

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