Dedicated to helping you live your best life in retirement

We provide the knowledge, resources, and support to make the right financial decisions.

Our Mission

At The Institute of Financial Wellness (IFW), we believe financial education goes beyond numbers—it’s about helping people ‘Get There’ and live their best lives in retirement. Founded to provide clear, unbiased, fact-based financial guidance, IFW is America’s premier resource for engaging content, tailored solutions, and expert guidance to make the right financial decisions.

Our proprietary IFW Retirement Score furthers this mission, empowering everyone to achieve their best possible score and reach their retirement goals.

Our Value

In a world where financial advice can be complex and biased, we aim to simplify, clarify, and inspire. Financial journeys are unique and not “one-size-fits-all,” which is why, when it comes to financial decisions, “Never say never. Never say always. It depends.”

Our curated resources and expert guidance reflect this philosophy, offering a one-of-a-kind network of financial professionals and content dedicated to empowering you to make the right financial decisions.

Our unique value is built upon five pillars:

  • Dynamic and Objective Financial Content: Engaging, practical resources that empower you to make informed financial choices.
  • Clarity & Confidence: We deliver clear insights and guidance so you can approach retirement planning decisions with confidence.
  • Access to Top Financial Experts: A network of trusted experts who prioritize holistic, personalized advice to help you achieve your ideal retirement.
  • Custom Solutions, Tailored to You: We believe in customized strategies that reflect each client’s unique needs, goals, and life stage.
  • Ongoing Support: Life changes, and so do financial needs. We provide continuous guidance to adapt to these shifts.
IFW Value

The IFW Process

Through our IFW Retirement Score, we guide you on a supportive journey tailored to your unique situation. After understanding your needs, an IFW concierge gathers key information, initiates your Retirement Score process, and connects you with the right financial professional to help chart a path that truly aligns with your goals.

Our Network

Our IFW Financial Professional Network is an essential part of what makes us unique. We carefully select independent financial professionals who align with our philosophy—understanding that “it depends” when it comes to financial planning. With extensive expertise and over 35 combined prestigious certifications, our professionals are ready to help you create a holistic, personalized plan that covers all aspects of financial well-being.

Additionally, the IFW is a registered fiduciary with the SEC.

  • Juris Doctors®
  • Retirement Income Certified Professional®
  • Accredited Estate Planner®
  • Certified Investment Management Analyst®
  • Certified Financial Planner®
  • Certified Private Wealth Advisor
  • Chartered Advisor in Senior Living®
  • Masters of Science in Financial Services®
  • Chartered Financial Consultant®
  • Certified Public Accountants
  • Chartered Life Underwriter®
  • Retirement Management Advisor®
  • Wealth Management Certified Professional®

Meet Our Leadership

Erik Sussman

Erik Sussman
Founder & CEO

Darren Sussman

Darren Sussman
Founder & President

Bella Scicluna

Bella Scicluna
Head of Strategy & Marketing

Scott Rosen

Scott Rosen
VP of Advisor Services

Rees Bridges

Rees Bridges
VP Multimedia & Technology

Skylar Hargrove

Skylar Hargrove
Director of Operations

Thought Leaders and Advisory Board

David Adefeso

David Adefeso
Investment Strategy & College Planning

Tom Hegna

Tom Hegna
IFW Retirement Income Expert

David Adefeso

David Schulman
Retirement Planning & Life Insurance Expert

Malik Yoba

Malik Yoba
IFW Arts & Entertainment Advocate & Educator

Fabrice Braunrot

Fabrice Braunrot
IFW Financial Services, Health & Wellness Expert

Joe Jordan

Joe Jordan
IFW Financial Services & Consumer Education

Laurie Sallarulo

Laurie Sallarulo
IFW Student Leader of Financial Education & Entrepreneurship

Kristin Chenoweth

Kristin Chenoweth
IFW Arts Advocate, Actress, Singer, & Performer

Renee Haugerud

Renee Haugerud
IFW Commodities Expert