We had the good fortune of connecting with Gabriel Montesino and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gabriel, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
In the same way that we prioritize our health by regularly visiting doctors and specialists, integrating a Financial Planner into our lives is equally essential—but from a financial wellness perspective. Throughout our lives, we encounter various financial milestones and challenges, each requiring informed decisions that can profoundly impact our future. A Financial Planner is not just an advisor but a dedicated partner who safeguards your interests and helps navigate these critical choices. A common misconception is that financial planning services are only for those with substantial incomes. However, the truth is that individuals at any income level can benefit from the guidance of a Financial Planner. Whether you’re just starting out, adjusting to new financial responsibilities, or planning for retirement, a Financial Planner can provide valuable strategies and support tailored to your unique financial situation. This ensures that everyone has the opportunity to optimize their financial health, no matter where they are in their financial journey.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
As the Growth Development Director and a Wealth Management Company Financial Advisor, I embrace dual roles that are both challenging and fulfilling. In my first role, I mentor, coach, and develop a team of financial advisors, guiding them toward excellence. In my second role, I work directly with our clients to enhance their financial literacy and advise them on both the defensive aspects of finance, such as insurances, and the offensive aspects, including investments and tax/distribution strategies. What truly sets me apart is our genuine care for our clients. Our priority is to build, cultivate, and nurture lasting relationships with each one of them. We provide tailored and integrated plans and ensure we check in multiple times throughout the year to adjust and optimize as needed.
I am particularly proud of being among the top advisors, and even more so within the Hispanic advisor community. My ability to process complex information and translate it into understandable, relatable, and actionable advice for my community is what excites me the most about my work.
Reflecting on the qualities instilled by my mom, my strong “why” propelled me forward. I reached out proactively, always striving to do right by people, and as a result, referrals came naturally. Despite numerous challenges, my focus on serving my community provided the strength needed to persevere.
Key lessons I’ve learned along the way include:
Stay coachable—you don’t know what you don’t know.
Surround yourself with people who enrich your life and embody the qualities you aspire to.
Always be prepared to take calculated risks.
Ultimately, our goal is to help more people and inspire you to become the best version of yourself.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If you’re looking to make the most of your visit to Miami, I have some top recommendations for dining, entertainment, and activities that you won’t want to miss. For dining, consider Bachour in the Gables, renowned for its exquisite pastries and brunch offerings, Il Gabbiano’s in Downtown Miami for classic Italian cuisine with a spectacular waterfront view, and Areito in Hialeah for a taste of authentic Caribbean flavors. For entertainment, head to Copper 29 in the Gables, where you’ll find a vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails, or Rosario’s in Brickell for a lively night out with great music. La Ceniza in Allapattah offers a perfect setting for enjoying live Latin music.
As for activities, a boat tour leaving from Bayside provides stunning views of Miami’s skyline and celebrity homes, or you can take a half-day walk through Wynwood to experience its eclectic street art, unique drinks, and vibrant culture. At South Point in Miami Beach, cap off your day with a sunset dinner at Call Me Gaby’s.
If you’re a sports fan, don’t miss the chance to catch a home game from Miami’s top teams like the Heat (NBA), Dolphins (NFL), Marlins (MLB), Inter Miami (MLS), and the Florida Panthers (NHL).

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
For me, the greatest source of inspiration is my Mom. As a single Mother and an immigrant, she faced the immense challenge of raising four children in the U.S. without documentation. Despite the fears, limitations, and setbacks, her determination never failed. She worked tirelessly, teaching me that grit, resilience, and determination are essential to relentlessly pursue the best version of oneself—to provide not just for your family, but also for yourself, your loved ones, and the broader community. Today, I often see dreams left unfulfilled because many lack the qualities that my Mom embodied. It’s truly disheartening to see so many people feeling lost, without clear direction or motivation in their lives. So I am here today to invite you to rekindle your aspirations and find your ‘why.’ Together, let’s strive to be the best versions of ourselves, inspired by those, like my Mom, who show us the profound impact of perseverance and courage in the face of adversity.

Website: https://www.northwesternmutual.com/financial/advisor/gabriel-montesino/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielmontesino_am/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabriel.montesino.906?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Other: Book time with me directly here: https://www04.timetrade.com/app/nwmf/workflows/NWMUTUAL-RLPA/schedule?resourceId=kbgc1fenwl&appointmentTypeGroupId=v7ugwz4p&appointmentTypeId=m61loj0d

Image Credits
Misael Bencosme: IG: @misaelbencosme

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.