For Diego Shaw, a connection with a high school friend opened the door to joining PDS Planning. A 2025 graduate of Mount Vernon Nazarene University, where he studied financial planning and played on the men’s soccer team, Diego was drawn to the firm’s comprehensive, fee-only approach and the opportunity to learn from experienced advisors.
Originally from Marysville, Diego now lives in Dublin with his wife, Mikayla, whom he married in September. Get to know what brought him to PDS and how he spends his time outside the office.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I was born and raised in Marysville, Ohio, where I grew up with my mom, dad, and younger brother, Nick. After graduating from Mount Vernon Nazarene University, where I studied financial planning and played for the men’s soccer team, I started my career at a registered investment advisory firm in Northeast Ohio before eventually moving back to the Columbus area.
I met my wife, Mikayla, during our first semester of college, and we got married in September 2026. I would describe myself as a hard worker who is always looking for ways to make a positive impact on those around me.
What brought you to PDS Planning?
As a 2025 college graduate looking to dive into the world of financial planning, I couldn’t think of a better place to be. I’ve always been drawn to comprehensive, fee-only financial planning. When a high school friend and current PDS team member reached out about the opportunity, I was instantly sold.
Our flat-fee model and commitment to putting clients’ interests first really resonated with me, and I believe our approach to financial planning sets us apart. That said, I think it’s only fair to give Josh Underhill some credit for helping connect me with PDS!
How do you think PDS Planning is different from other financial planning firms?
It goes back to the reason I joined the team in the first place. I believe financial planning should be comprehensive and centered on clients’ interests. PDS’s approach reflects both of those priorities. We truly go above and beyond for our clients, and our entire team has bought into the mission of helping clients achieve their personal and financial goals.
What is your favorite aspect of working at PDS?
I really admire the breadth of knowledge and experience across our team, as well as the overall culture at PDS. As a young professional working toward CFP® certification, I enjoy learning from our senior advisors and contributing in any way I can. It’s a lot of fun serving our clients with excellence while working for a company that’s committed to my personal and professional development.
Do you see anything new on the horizon of the financial planning industry?
I believe AI tools will help improve financial planning processes and increase efficiency across the industry, supporting a better overall client experience. That said, I’m also a firm believer that AI will never completely replace human financial planners because many clients value the human connection and face-to-face element of an advisor-client relationship.
Tell us about your family.
My mom moved to the United States and completed her PhD in microbiology at the University of Arizona before eventually meeting my dad, who is a Central Ohio native and Honda retiree. My younger brother, Nick, was the best man at my wedding, and we share many great memories from growing up together.
I had the privilege of marrying my wife and best friend, Mikayla, in September 2026. Now that all the wedding planning is behind us, we’re looking forward to starting this new chapter together in Dublin, where we currently live.
How do you like to spend your free time when you are not working?
You can usually find me spending time outdoors or playing and watching a variety of sports. I couldn’t quite hang up the boots after college soccer, so I’ve continued playing in men’s leagues and pickup games around Columbus.
I also love traveling and broadening my perspective through new experiences. Some of my favorite international trips have been to the Netherlands, Brazil, France, Malta, and many destinations throughout Mexico, as well as the Dutch Caribbean island of Bonaire, where my wife and I spent our honeymoon. I also enjoy visiting national parks and creating YouTube videos with my friends.
Are you involved with PDS CARES?
As a new member of the team, I haven’t had the opportunity to get involved with any organizations through PDS CARES yet, but I look forward to volunteering in the future. I’m a firm believer in giving back to the community and serving those around me.
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