Born and raised in Plain City, Ohio, Josh Underhill is a recent graduate of The Ohio State University and the newest member of the PDS Planning team. As an Associate Paraplanner, he supports the team through research, meeting preparation, and client service while taking the opportunity to learn from the rest of the team daily. “Everyone’s willingness to share their knowledge and experience has been incredibly valuable, and I will always be grateful for that.”
Josh is excited to grow in his role and contribute to PDS’s mission of providing transparent, client-focused financial planning. “I believe the flat-fee model creates transparency between us and our clients. It reflects our commitment to acting as fiduciaries—focusing on our clients’ needs, not their net worth.”
At PDS, we are proud to have a team of forward-thinking leaders, expert planners, and staff who approach our clients’ financial decisions the same way we approach investing our own money. Learn more about Josh’s role with PDS, as well as how he spends his time away from work
How do you think PDS is different from other financial planning firms?
Looking around at other firms and comparing them to PDS, the first thing that jumps out to me is the culture. PDS has created an environment that not only excels at serving our clients but also encourages professional and personal growth.
Secondly, our fee structure sets us apart from the rest of the industry. I believe the flat-fee model creates transparency between us and our clients. It reflects our commitment to acting as fiduciaries—focusing on our clients’ needs, not their net worth.
What is your favorite aspect of working at PDS?
As a recent college graduate new to the industry, my favorite aspect is the welcoming environment every time I walk into the office. Everyone’s willingness to share their knowledge and experience has been incredibly valuable, and I will always be grateful for that.
Do you see anything new on the horizon of the financial planning industry?
Like many people, I believe artificial intelligence will impact a wide range of industries—including financial planning. While AI may enhance efficiency in some areas, I don’t believe it will ever replace the human element. AI might understand financial strategies, but it can’t grasp the emotional and personal values that are essential to a truly great financial plan.
Tell us about your family.
Whenever I’m asked for a fun fact about myself, I always share that from my parents’ front porch, you can see the homes of my grandparents, one of my mom’s many cousins, and three great-aunts and uncles. Both of my parents grew up in Plain City, OH, and much of our extended family still lives nearby. I also have an older sister who’s in her second year of vet school at Ohio State, working toward her goal of becoming a large animal veterinarian.
When you are not working, how do you like to spend your free time?
Outside of work, you can find me helping my grandparents around their house, mowing lawns with my dad, or participating in my church’s bell choir. I love spending time with family, whether we’re going out to dinner or playing euchre at family reunions. I’m also a dedicated Columbus Blue Jackets fan and enjoy playing just about any sport you can think of!
What are you reading/watching/listening to?
Growing up, I wasn’t really into reading or movies—but that’s changed recently. I’ve become a big fan of stories with twists, especially in films, and have been really into Christopher Nolan movies over the past few months. If you asked any of my friends or family, they’d tell you I’m a huge fan of his movie The Prestige.
Are you involved with PDS Cares?
While I haven’t been involved with PDS Cares yet, I’ve had the opportunity to volunteer with PDS in other ways. Since starting here, I’ve celebrated my 21st birthday serving lunch at the Ronald McDonald House and taken part in our 40th anniversary campaign, volunteering at the Dublin Food Pantry and at A Kid Again’s Columbus Zoo event.
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