Leonardo “Leo” Gelain is the founder of Leon Financial Services, where he helps individuals and families build, preserve, and transition their wealth through every stage of life.
Originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Leo moved permanently to the United States in 1998 after marrying his wife Michele. Today, they live with their two daughters, Angelica and Isabella, where they are active in their church and local community.
Before entering financial services, Leo pursued an engineering background, which helped shape the analytical and problem-solving approach he brings to financial planning and wealth management today.
Leo brings nearly 30 years of experience in financial services, guiding clients through multiple economic cycles — including the dot-com crash, the financial crisis of 2008–2009, the COVID-19 market disruption, and today’s inflation and interest-rate challenges. His experience across these environments allows him to help clients remain disciplined and focused on long-term financial goals regardless of market conditions.
Over the years, Leo has worked with a wide range of clients — from young families beginning their financial journey to high-net-worth individuals, retirees, and business owners preparing for retirement and legacy planning.
Leo holds the Accredited Asset Management Specialist® (AAMS®), Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor® (CRPC®), and Certified Financial Fiduciary® (CF2®) designations, reflecting his commitment to ongoing education, fiduciary standards, and professional excellence in wealth management and retirement planning.
At Leon Financial Services, Leo focuses on helping clients navigate the three key stages of financial life:
- •Growth — building wealth through disciplined investment strategies
- •Preservation — managing risk and protecting assets
- •Retirement & Income Planning — creating sustainable retirement income while addressing taxes, healthcare, and legacy goals