For this expert panel, we interviewed Stacy Chamberlain, an Edward Jones Financial Advisor; Kevin Sleater, a Loan Officer for Security National Mortgage; and Jason Woodland, a business mentor for Woodland Advisors. They each offer valuable insights into finance, mortgages, and business growth.
STACY CHAMBERLAIN, Edward Jones Financial Advisor
With market fluctuations, what advice do you have for investors looking to minimize risk and stay on track? So often investors know they want to minimize risk, but often they don't know if they are achieving that when the market starts to fluctuate. It's in those moments that people begin to wonder if they have the right investments, the right mix of investments, and if it will recover from a downturn. These concerns often drive investors to make decisions based on emotion that may or may not be the right choice in the moment. Having a relationship with a trusted advisor and solid financial plan that accounts for your risk tolerance, goals, and timeline can help keep you on track.
What are some common misconceptions people have about financial planning, and how do you help clients overcome them? One of the most common misconceptions I see is that people often view retirement as the goal line. Retirement is the beginning of a new phase. We spend most of our adult years saving for a distant goal like retirement. What many underestimate is what that next phase will look like and what that means going forward. More importantly many people think of retirement in terms of finances, but the shift to a new phase in life also brings about a change in our purpose, health, and social connections.
What steps should someone take when starting their investment journey? There are so many options to consider today, and often people do feel overwhelmed. I recommend sitting down with a trusted financial advisor to discuss where you currently are in your journey, what your goals are, and what's important to you. These types of conversations can help you prioritize the best action to take for you and your specific situation.
KEVIN SLEATER, Security National Mortgage Loan Officer
What are the biggest factors borrowers should consider when applying for a mortgage in today’s market? What works for one person may be very different for someone else. Understanding the current housing market and trends can help inform you when it’s a good time to get into the market, or how best to position yourself to take advantage of future opportunities when they arise. In addition, understanding the different variables and factors that go into a loan approval can help you make adjustments where needed to get the best terms.
How do rising or falling interest rates impact homebuyers, and what strategies can help them navigate these changes? Rising and falling interest rates will have an effect on your purchasing power. When the interest rate increases so does the monthly mortgage payment which makes a home less affordable. When the interest rate decreases, so does the monthly payment which makes that same home more affordable. In a low interest rate market there tends to be more buyers who can afford a particular home which creates competition which in turn drives up house prices. Conversely, in a higher interest rate market there tends to be fewer qualified buyers and therefore somewhat lower competition which can keep house prices in check. A higher rate environment can be the ideal time to buy due to the relatively softer price and buyer demand.
What common mistakes do first-time homebuyers make? One of the biggest mistakes I see first-time home buyers make is skipping the pre-approval process or waiting until the last minute to get pre-approved. When you get pre-approved you know more precisely what your budget is so there are no surprises when you’re out shopping for your new home. It can also eliminate much of the stress that can occur once you are under contract during the home buying process. Pre-Approval can give you a better negotiating position since you can close more quickly. This can help you compete with cash offers. One key advantage to getting pre-approved early is that it identifies areas that could benefit from improvement when needed.
JASON WOODLAND, Woodland Advisors Business Mentor
How do you adapt your coaching style to suit different businesses across Utah and beyond? Every business is unique, so I tailor my approach to fit their specific needs—whether it’s a tech startup in Salt Lake City or a high-end seamstress in California. My confidence comes from 30+ years of experience, allowing me to read a room and adapt fast. I'm able to draw knowledge from every encounter I've had, from graffiti artists on the street to eloquent speakers like Tony Robbins, and experiences from skateboarding in my youth to negotiating a 99 year land lease on a historic SLC building. Every experience/encounter is equally valid. It’s about results, and building trust. I’m not here to lecture; I’m a partner who gets their world and drives actionable growth.
What role does community involvement play in your success as a business coach? Being active in Utah’s community isn’t just a hobby—it’s a game-changer for my coaching. I enjoy participating in chamber events, charity drives, networking groups (Rainmakers represent), and anything that allows me to be of service to my community. It’s important to stay plugged into the pulse of local business—what’s thriving, what’s tough. That consistent involvement sharpens my coaching skills and allows me to always pass on the newest and best insights to my clients. In a state like Utah, where relationships matter, my involvement builds credibility. I’m the guy they know, rely on, and call when they’re ready to build.
What’s the biggest challenge you see businesses facing today, and how do you tackle it? Right now, businesses are wrestling with uncertainty—talent retention, sales strategy, policy shifts, supply chain hiccups, inflation, you name it. In Utah and nearby states, I see some owners hesitant to take risks. My job? Cut through that fog with confidence and clarity. I push them to focus on what they can control: streamlining operations, doubling down on loyal customers, or pivoting fast. I don’t sugarcoat; I bring hard data and bold moves. My style’s direct: assess, strategize, execute. I love the challenge; it’s why I coach. Helping a business thrive in chaos, that’s the win.
"One of the biggest mistakes I see first-time home buyers make is skipping the pre-approval process or waiting until the last minute." - Kevin Sleater