Hernando Ospina

PARTNER

John Balele is a first-generation American of Tanzanian descent, proudly hailing from the Sukuma tribe. Growing up in Wisconsin, John cultivated a strong sense of community and resilience, values that have shaped his professional journey.

A resident of Las Vegas for over 15 years, John initially established a thriving VIP services company, specializing in curating unparalleled experiences in the entertainment industry—from pool parties to nightclub events, fine dining, and more. For more than 12 years, he adeptly navigated the dynamic Las Vegas scene, building a reputation for excellence and innovation.

In January 2019, John transitioned his entrepreneurial spirit into the financial services industry, becoming a financial advisor With a focus on comprehensive financial planning and asset management, John spent five years as a financial advisor with Eagle Strategies, earning recognition as a two-time Million Dollar Round Table® (MDRT®) member, an industry benchmark of excellence.

In May 2024, he embarked on a new chapter as a Partner, where he is committed to mentoring and training a team of financial professionals, further strengthening the Eagle Strategies network. He now coaches agents to guide individuals and small business owners on navigating the American financial system and helping clients achieve their financial goals. His expertise teaches agents strategies like exit and succession planning, enabling business owners to turn their enterprises into a source of retirement security.

John’s professional credentials include CHFC® (Chartered Financial Consultant), WMCP® (Wealth Management Certified Professional), FSCP® (Financial Services Certified Professional), and CLTC® (Certified in Long-Term Care). His expertise and dedication make him a trusted resource for clients seeking tailored financial solutions and long-term success.

PARTNER

Jennifer Padolina is a dedicated Partner at New York Life Insurance Company currently based in the Las Vegas General Office.  Originally from the Philippines, she migrated to the United States in 1985 after spending five years working as a nurse in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

In 1996, Jennifer made a pivotal career shift to the insurance industry, joining New York Life as an agent despite having no prior sales experience. Her remarkable talent and commitment quickly became evident; in her first year, she was honored as the “New Agent of the Year” and qualified for the prestigious Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT).  Over the years, she consistently excelled, qualifying for the Executive and President Councils for a decade and repeatedly achieving MDRT status.

Under the mentorship of John T. Baier, Managing Partner at the New Jersey General Office, Jennifer honed her sales and management skills, ultimately becoming a Partner herself.  Throughout her 28 years with the New Jersey General Office, she played an instrumental role in the agency’s operations and growth, notably leading the MDRT Mentor/Aspirant Program, which expanded MDRT membership from six to seventy-four members.

In July 2023, Jennifer transitioned to the Las Vegas General Office, where she continues her passion for mentoring and training new agents.  Her main responsibilities include recruiting and developing talent to become trusted advisors in the insurance industry, all the while making a positive impact in her new community.

Outside of her professional achievements, Jennifer is actively involved in her community. She has served as the Past President of the Paramus Rotary Club, has been a member of the Board of Directors for Greater Paramus Chamber of Commerce and the Paramus Education Foundation, and is the founder and current President of PRECA (Papaya Residents in Every Coast in America).  Additionally, she has held leadership positions within her church and has received several awards for her humanitarian efforts and community service.

Jennifer enjoys the vibrant lifestyle of Lake Las Vegas, where she lives with her two Pomeranians.  In her free time, she indulges in hobbies such as golf, hiking, pickleball, and traveling, while also dedicating to volunteer efforts in her community.  Jennifer is committed to making a difference in the lives of those she meets both personally and professionally.

PARTNER

Manuel Gonzalez is a Partner with New York Life, recognized for his client-first approach and commitment to delivering thoughtful, extensive financial strategies tailored to the needs of individuals, families, and business owners. He takes pride in building long-term relationships and helping clients navigate complex financial decisions with clarity and confidence.

Born and raised in the Bay Area of Northern California, Manuel later relocated to Southern California, where he spent six years at Disneyland—an experience that shaped his strong service mindset and relationship-driven philosophy. It was there that he met his wife, Taylor. In 2020, they moved to Las Vegas, where Manuel discovered his passion for helping families and business owners protect what matters most while planning intentionally for their futures.

In just four years as a financial advisor, Manuel earned back-to-back Executive Council honors and qualified for the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) in both 2024 and 2025. These accomplishments led to his selection into New York Life’s Associate Partner Program, culminating in his role as the youngest Partner in the Las Vegas General Office. Today, Manuel is dedicated not only to serving his clients at the highest level, but also to creating meaningful, life-changing career opportunities for others within New York Life.

Outside of work, Manuel enjoys staying active and challenging himself physically. His interests include winter sports such as skiing, as well as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, where he is currently pursuing a purple belt promotion.

ASSOCIATE PARTNER

Andrew Tran is currently an Associate Partner with New York Life, known for his client-first approach to financial guidance and leadership. Born and raised in Orange County, California, he began his career with New York Life in 2022 at the Southern California General Office, where he qualified for Executive Council twice and earned membership into Million Dollar Round Table in 2025.

Andrew considers his greatest success to be the relationships he has built and the opportunity to help individuals and families work toward their financial and personal goals. In October 2025, he relocated to Las Vegas and was promoted to Associate Partner, where he focuses on developing a collaborative, growth-oriented team committed to making a positive community impact.

Outside of work, Andrew has a strong background in the performing arts. He grew up doing theatre and even dabbled in stand-up comedy. At age 12, Andrew began breakdancing and is a founding member of Placebo Effect Crew. He also previously served as Executive Director of Kaba Modern Legacy, a renowned hip-hop dance organization rooted at the University of California, Irvine. Currently, he enjoys creating and performing music, bringing creativity, authenticity, and connection into his leadership style.

ASSOCIATE PARTNER

Mark Milazzo began his career with New York Life in 2023, bringing a strong background in business, operations, and client service to his role. He is a graduate of The George Washington University, where he earned both a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master’s of Tourism Administration. After building a foundation in business and customer service, Mark transitioned into financial services to help individuals and families protect what matters most and plan for successful financial futures.

Mark’s drive and consistent advocacy for his clients have earned him numerous accolades as a financial professional. In 2024, he was recognized as the New Org Annuity Leader and received the Triple Crown Award. In 2025, Mark was honored as New Org Agent of the Year, along with receiving the prestigious Ben Feldman Award and the New Org Case Rate Leader Award, reflecting his commitment to protection-powered growth for his clients.

In 2026, Mark was promoted to Associate Partner, combining his passion for mentorship with his leadership experience to help develop the next generation of New York Life agents and financial professionals.

Outside of work, Mark and his wife, Jessica, have called Las Vegas home for nearly 20 years. They enjoy traveling, exploring new restaurants, and are passionate supporters and season ticket holders of the Vegas Golden Knights.

Mark leads with passion, creativity, and integrity, and is deeply committed to supporting his financial professionals in delivering exceptional financial planning while building sustainable, long-term careers with New York Life.

ASSOCIATE PARTNER

Jose L. Vazquez began his career with New York Life in January 2019, bringing a strong foundation in finance, client service, and strategic execution. He is an Investment Professional with NYLIFE Securities LLC and a Financial Professional with New York Life the Founder of Aument Financial LLC, an independent firm he established to deliver protection-first financial strategies for individuals, families, and business owners.

Jose works with a balanced mix of clients, helping them address income protection, asset positioning, retirement strategies, and long-term legacy considerations. His disciplined, client-centered approach has led to consistent performance and recognition, including multiple years of New York Life Executive Council and MDRT qualification. Early in his career, he was also honored with the Ben Feldman Award, reflecting strong momentum in new business development.

In addition to his client practice, Jose is beginning his transition into management as an Associate Partner. In this role, he is focused on agency growth through recruiting, mentoring, and developing financial professionals while maintaining a strong emphasis on client outcomes and ethical business practices.

Jose holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and is currently working toward his Master’s in Public Administration. He is bilingual in English and Spanish and proudly serves a diverse, multicultural client base. A Las Vegas native, Jose remains actively involved in the community and serves as Treasurer for the ¡Ándale! 5K Foundation, which supports students pursuing law school.

^{Aument Financial LLC is not owned or operated by New York Life Insurance Company or its subsidiaries..}

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

Chris Rial joined New York Life in 2016 as an agent, where he earned Executive Council recognition twice and built a strong foundation for his leadership career. His firsthand experience in the field shaped his passion for agent development and helping financial professionals build successful, sustainable practices.

In 2020, Chris was promoted to Development Manager and later advanced to Director of Development. In these roles, he focuses on coaching, mentoring, and supporting agents through meaningful growth, combining high standards with a relationship-driven leadership approach. He believes long-term professional success is best achieved alongside a strong personal life.

Chris earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Management with a minor in Communication from St. Norbert College, where he was a member of two NCAA National Championship teams. He later pursued a professional hockey career and remains involved in the sport as an off-ice official for the NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights.

Family is central to Chris’s life. He and his wife, Harley, are proud parents to their daughter, Isla, and he enjoys spending time with his family, golfing, and staying connected to the hockey community.

SERVICE LEADER

Michelle Casa joined New York Life in December 2014 as a Service Representative supporting New Business operations. She later expanded her experience by serving as an Agent, gaining direct client engagement expertise before returning to the General Office to continue advancing in service operations.

Michelle holds a degree in Computing and Software Systems from the University of Washington, bringing a strong technical foundation and analytical perspective to her work. Her commitment to operational excellence, leadership, and client focused service led to her promotion to Service Leader in June 2025. In this role, she provides strategic and day to day leadership for service operations, ensuring quality, efficiency, and a consistently positive experience for agents and Partners.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Michelle is the proud mother of two children and enjoys time with her family and their dog, Max.

DIRECTOR OF AGENCY STANDARDS

Mike has been with New York Life Insurance Company since 1990 where he started as the Training Supervisor in the Arizona General Office in Scottsdale. After completing twenty years as the Senior Director of Development, Mike was appointed to Pacific Zone Director of Long-Term Care for New York Life in December 2010. In 2011, his consultant role was expanded to Retirement Specialist, where he supported agents with annuity product solutions. In 2013, he returned to the Arizona General Office as the Senior Director of Development.   In April of 2021, Mike was appointed the Director of Agency Standards for the Arizona & Tucson General Offices.

A graduate from the University of Northern Colorado where he also played baseball, Mike has earned his Master of Science in Financial Services (MSFS), as well as CLU, ChFC, CASL & RICP designations through the American College.  He has also acquired his CLTC designation – (Certified in Long-Term Care) from the CLTC Board of Standards Inc.

Mike currently resides in Cave Creek, Arizona with his wife, Janet, where he enjoys playing golf at the many courses in the Phoenix area.

^{Council is awarded by New York Life Insurance Company for outstanding sales achievements. Council is an annual company recognition program based on agent production from July 1- June 30.}

^{MDRT is recognized throughout the industry as the standard of excellence in life insurance sales performance.}