Every recruiter has a story that led them to this industry, and some stories stand out for their depth and unexpected turns. This month, we are featuring Eron Vizcaya, whose path to financial services began far from a typical office setting. From years spent working on the waters of the Bering Sea to helping advisors build independent and fulfilling practices, Eron brings a rare mix of grit, empathy, and drive to our 1847Financial team. His passion for helping others succeed is evident in every conversation.

How long have you been in the financial services industry?
I started in 2019, so this is my seventh year in the business.

What led you to join the financial services industry?
It was never something I thought I would end up doing. I got connected with a successful New York Life agent from Long Island, and it all came full circle for me. When I was a kid, I remember crossing the street to check the mailbox and grabbing a New York Life check every month after my dad passed away. It was only about $160, but it made a huge difference for my family. That experience stuck with me, and when the opportunity came up years later, I realized this was a way to educate, give back and help other families the way mine had been helped.

You mentioned that you fished before joining the industry. Tell us more about that.
Yes, I spent 12 years as a commercial fisherman. Every year before the season started, we would take the boat up from Seattle, Washington to Dutch Harbor, Alaska, mainly fishing for Pollock. It was hard work but rewarding. I would spend months at sea, then come home for short breaks before heading out again. That experience made me the man I am today and taught me discipline, grit, and how to work under pressure, all of which I’ve carried into my career now.

How did you end up on the East Coast?
After years of working in Alaska and living in Seattle, my wife and I were ready for a change. We wanted a better place to raise our kids, somewhere with good weather and a lower cost of living. Ashlie, my wife, had spent some time in Virginia and really liked it, we checked that out and some of the neighboring states as well and decided on North Carolina. It was a bit like throwing a dart at the map, but it has worked out perfectly.

When did you join 1847Financial?
I joined Ed Barrett’s firm in late February of this year.

What makes 1847Financial stand out compared to other firms you’ve worked with?
It’s the supported independence. Advisors here have the freedom to run their own business the way they want, but they also have access to incredible resources and guidance. It’s not a micromanaging environment. The structure allows advisors to maximize their compensation and truly benefit from the work they put in. A lot of other firms cut into that, but here, advisors are rewarded for their efforts.

Who would be your ideal recruit?
Someone who has been in the industry for at least three years and is starting to think about becoming more independent. Often by that point, advisors realize their current situation isn’t what they envisioned. They may be doing well but want more control over their business. My ideal recruit is someone ready to take ownership of their practice and start building something that is truly theirs.

What roles have you held throughout your career?
I started as an agent with New York Life. I did that for close to three years before I had the opportunity to join the Raleigh MassMutual firm in more of a leadership capacity while still having the ability to work with clients. While at MassMutual I was very focused on recruiting and training new advisors, which I am very passionate about. After the merger with another firm and a lot of leadership changes took place it, I decided it was time to join a firm which more closely aligned with my core values and beliefs. Now, with 1847Financial I’ve found that place, I’m a Recruiting Specialist focused on attracting new talent to the firm.

What has been your biggest success in your career so far?
It’s really two-fold. First, helping families get the protection they need has always been meaningful to me. Second, helping young advisors launch their careers and watching them succeed has been incredibly rewarding. One advisor I mentored started as an intern, and within three years, he built a strong practice with about $25 million in assets under management. He’s now a CFP and doing extremely well. Seeing people like that thrive makes it all worth it.

What advice would you give to financial professionals who are considering changing firms?
Take a close look at your business ownership. You don’t want to work this hard and not truly own what you’ve built. Make sure you’re getting paid what you’re worth and that you have access to everything your clients need. Independence and fair compensation make a huge difference in long-term success.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Most of my free time revolves around my family. My kids are 15 and 13, and they’re involved in sports, so I spend a lot of time at their games and events. We love being outdoors, going to the beach and pool, and just spending time together. Family is really what keeps me grounded.

Want to learn more about the 1847Financial opportunity? Connect with Eron on LinkedIn.

^{Eron Vizcaya is not registered to offer securities and investment advisory services and is Insurance Licensed Only. 8660449RG_Dec27}