Barb Gleason

Paraplanner

My name is Barbara Gleason, and I’ve spent the last 25 years as a physical therapist, working in acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, and management. While PT was incredibly rewarding, I felt it was time for a new path. My interest in personal finance grew over the years as I enjoyed reading finance books and helping friends with their taxes, which led me to pursue a career in financial planning.

I completed the Executive Certificate in Financial Planning at Old Dominion University, where I met Mike—and the rest is history! I’m now excited to be part of the team at Ideas by Mike and plan to take the CFP® exam in March 2025.

I’m passionate about helping people, especially those who may feel overwhelmed by financial concepts. I believe everyone deserves to feel confident about their financial future, and I strive to create a comfortable, judgment-free space for clients to ask questions and learn. 

Scotty Liberatore

Legacy Specialist

Hello to you! My name is Scotty, and I am honored to be the Legacy Specialist here at Ideas By
Mike, LLC. At this point in my career, I have officially marked 10 years in the Financial Services
industry. What a rewarding and humble journey it has been, and I am so blessed and excited for
many more to come!


For me, life has always been about other people. At an early age I learned the Golden Rule: "treat
others the way you would like to be treated." At that point, my life changed forever.


As a Legacy Specialist, I have a deep understanding of Legacy Planning. My purpose, my
mission, and my goal is to guide individuals and families to create meaningful, lasting impacts
for the future generations. I do this by blending personal insights and strategic planning; ensuring
that assets, values, and cherished memories are preserved in place.
I take pride in building trust and tailoring my approach to align with each client’s unique vision;
helping them create a legacy that resonates. Being able to hear your story, learn what makes you
one of a kind, and plan for your legacy is a true privilege, and I look forward to it!


Growing up in a small, Ohio village, I quickly learned the value of people, hard work, and
money. To me, these three things are left to be talked about later in life, I have also learned this is
not wise to do. My path, like all others; carved out from experiences, wants, needs, goals, sports,
family, friends, and people; have all led me to who I am today.


I am a proud Alumnus of The Ohio State University. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Consumer
and Family Financial Services with a minor in Business Administration and Management. I have
completed all the education requirements to take my Certified Financial Planner designation and
plan to take my certification exam in the future. I hold a current Accident & Health, Casualty,
Life, Property, and Variable license, a current ALHC designation, a prior Series 6, and will soon
hold the ChFC designation. I am a continuous student of the industry and a current member of
The Ohio State University Financial Planning Association.


In my life, I have a wonderful wife Jessica, a supportive family, a great community, and two
dogs: Moose and Champ. We keep an active lifestyle and enjoy the outdoors as much as we can.
Typically, we can be found on a hike with our dogs, a concert or live music event, trying out a
new restaurant, catching a sporting event, hanging out with friends, or even sometimes a relaxing
vacation at Siesta Key Beach.


Personally, I have always loved sports, more specifically playing them, and being involved in
them. I always say I love a friendly competition and will even play you in Tic-Tac-Toe for a good
laugh. I currently spend most of my free time: golfing, fishing, playing softball, writing, creating,
building, playing guitar, and running my handyman business; Scott Of All Trades, LLC.


I wanted to share a snapshot of me, my life, and the legacy that I am protecting.
Please know, I am here to listen, plan, guide, and protect “Your Legacy” with you too.

Eric Picard

Retirement Specialist

Hi there! I’m Eric Picard, a passionate and dedicated financial professional. After a 17 year career in business banking and commercial lending, and having lived and worked in Montana, Nevada, Massachusetts, and currently Southeast Wisconsin, I’ve gained a unique perspective on how people approach money and retirement. These life experiences have shaped my belief that financial security isn’t just about numbers, it’s about creating a worry-free future.

For me, balance is everything, both in life and in finance. My goal is to help our clients achieve financial peace of mind by designing personalized strategies that blend income-producing assets with guaranteed solutions.

As a Retirement Specialist, I believe that preparing for a secure future goes far beyond financial products. It requires a holistic approach and a strong team. I’m humbled to represent Ideas By Mike™, where together we craft customized, one-of-a-kind financial plans designed to fit each client’s unique needs.

On a personal note, I’m a dedicated father of two teenagers and the luckiest husband in the world to my amazing wife Melissa, who inspires me to be the best version of myself. Outside of work, we stay active through cycling, hiking, and “glamping” whenever we get the chance. We love traveling, escaping to warm tropical destinations and exploring new places whenever possible.

Clients quickly learn that I take a client-first approach, prioritizing clear communication, attention to detail, and long-term relationships. At the center of my work, I’m committed to helping people retire with confidence and achieve financial security, which ultimately allows them to enjoy what truly matters most.

Frances Badilles

Relationship Assistant

Hey there, I'm Frances, a Relationship Assistant at Ideas by Mike. My role involves reaching out
to individuals interested in our financial planning services, understanding their needs, and
scheduling appointments to help them achieve their financial goals. I provide personalized
support to guide them in making informed decisions toward financial success
I'm from Davao City, Philippines, and hold a bachelor’s degree in Management Accounting. I
started my career in banking and after nearly a decade in the industry, I transitioned to a remote
job as an Accounts Payable Coordinator to better balance work and family life after becoming a
mother. This role allowed me to gain valuable experience in managing finances remotely. Now,
I’ve joined Ideas by Mike to continue developing my skills and contribute to a dynamic team.
My years of work have taught me that true growth comes not only from acquiring skills and
knowledge but also from the lessons learned through life's challenges. Every experience, good
or bad, helps me become more resilient and adaptable. I also believe in equality and fostering
positive relationships in the workplace. Mutual respect is key to creating a collaborative
environment where everyone feels valued and motivated
Outside of work, I'm a proud mother to an energetic toddler who keeps me on my toes and a
loving wife to my wonderful husband. I cherish family life and the special moments we share.
Watching my little one grow and exploring the world together brings me so much joy. Weekends
are especially meaningful, as they allow us to unwind, relax, and create lasting memories as a
family.
I enjoy activities that help me unwind and recharge, like yoga, which brings me peace and
balance. I also love spending quiet moments at cafes with a cup of coffee or tea. These
moments contribute to my well-being, and I’m proud to say I’m truly at my happiest and best self
today.

Lea Ypil

Relationship Assistant

Hi! I’m Lea, a Relationship Assistant at Ideas by Mike, LLC.
My role entails engaging with individuals seeking financial planning services, assessing their
needs, and coordinating appointments with our financial professionals to support them in
reaching their financial objectives.


Apart from my professional background, I bring music and art to life through my voice and
imagination as an event singer, mural artist and live wedding painter.
Quietly crafting solutions behind the scenes, I thrive in the depths of thought and reflection.
Embracing the power of introversion to drive meaningful results.


A fun fact about me is that I have an extreme and irrational phobia of heights but want to
become a commercial airline pilot. I have even gone as far as taking an aviation ground course
and applied for a student pilot license in the Philippines in 2022.


I champion the harmony between professional ambition and personal fulfillment, prioritizing
family connections and well-being in every aspect of life. Because true success lies in living fully,
both at work and at home.

Natalia Torres

Operations Assistant

Hello! I’m Natalia, the Operations Assistant at Ideas by Mike, LLC. In my role, I oversee day-to-day office operations, facilitate internal processes, and ensure a seamless experience for both our team and clients, creating a welcoming and organized environment.

With a strong background in customer service, I’m deeply passionate about making a positive impact in my community. I’ve always sought ways to give back, whether through volunteering, organizing events, or supporting local initiatives. Now, at Ideas by Mike, LLC, I continue to channel that passion by contributing to our company's mission while fostering connections and growth both within and outside of the workplace.

When I’m not working, you can usually find me enjoying a good book, exploring indoor rock climbing, or soaking up the sun at the beach with my loved ones. These activities allow me to recharge and connect with the world around me, fueling my drive to make a difference in both my personal and professional life.

Casey Hartman

Project Assistant
Hi, I’m Casey, and I currently serve as the Project Assistant at Ideas by Mike, LLC. In my role, I work to support the operational processes and contribute to Mike’s strategic goals, all with the aim of improving our productivity and the overall experience for our prospects and clients.

I was born and raised in the Kansas City, MO metro area, and after high school, I joined the Navy. During my time in the Navy, I specialized in network administration and cyber defense operations. I also had the privilege of leading and mentoring junior Sailors, helping them achieve their career, educational, and personal goals. The last six years of my Navy career were spent stationed in Norfolk, where I became deeply involved in the Hampton Roads community by volunteering and supporting several local and regional nonprofit organizations.

My interest in the financial sector started back in high school when I took accounting classes. Over the years, I’ve gained diverse experience in finance, including working in the Cash Operations department at an amusement park, serving as a financial counselor at two Navy duty assignments, and as a licensed assistant to a certified financial advisor. I am also currently serving my third term as the treasurer at my church, which has allowed me to continue applying my financial expertise in a meaningful way.

I’m passionate about helping others achieve their financial goals, and it’s incredibly fulfilling for me to be able to support individuals and families in improving their quality of life. Whether it’s through financial education or guidance, I’m excited to contribute to the success of those around me.