What does it really look like to serve clients with empathy, attention, and heart?

In this episode of Living Beyond the Numbers, hosts Jude Boudreaux and Caleb Arringdale sit down with two of the warmest voices at The Planning Center, Jenessa Ritchie and Krystal Gilliam, client service associates from the Quad Cities and Anchorage offices. Together, they pull back the curtain on what it takes to deliver meaningful service that goes far beyond transactions, discussing the human side of financial planning and how listening, care, and follow-through create trust that lasts for generations.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• How Jenessa and Krystal support clients through life changes, loss, and everyday needs
• The difference between transactional and relational service and why it matters
• Why technology struggles are normal (and how The Planning Center helps clients through them)
• How simple gestures like remembering a birthday or a favorite song build deep client connection
• And more!

Connect with Jude Boudreaux CFP®:

• The Planning Center
• LinkedIn: Jude Boudreaux
• jude@theplanningcenter.com
• Phone: (504) 717-4862

Connect with Caleb Arringdale:

• LinkedIn: Caleb Arringdale
• caleb@theplanningcenter.com
• Phone: (309) 797-4030

Connect with Jenessa Ritchie:

• LinkedIn: Jenessa Ritchie
• jenessa@theplanningcenter.com
• Phone: (309) 797-4030

Connect with Krystal Gilliam:

• LinkedIn: Krystal Gilliam
• krystal@theplanningcenter.com
• Phone: (907) 276-1400

About our Guests:

Jenessa Ritchie is a Client Service Associate at The Planning Center’s Quad Cities office in Moline. At the heart of financial planning is trust, and Jenessa takes great pride in fostering meaningful connections with clients. Her goal is to provide a welcoming experience, guiding individuals and families through the technology and logistics of their financial journey while helping them feel confident and supported every step of the way.

Krystal Gilliam serves as a Client Service Associate at The Planning Center’s Anchorage office in Alaska. Krystal believes that excellent service starts with genuine care and clear communication. Her role allows her to support clients with everything from scheduling to navigating account technology—always with a focus on helping them feel heard, valued, and taken care of.