Meet Josh Zahn

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

Hi Josh, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
A few years ago, I had a brain tumor that came out of nowhere. In my world as a financial advisor, I’d always been focused on the long term, retirement, compounding, the idea that time is one of your greatest assets. But at home, I’m a husband and a dad to three little girls. And within a couple of months, I went from being a “normal” dad to needing major brain surgery and facing cancer, chemo, and radiation.

That experience completely reset my perspective. I realized how quickly life can change and how none of us are promised tomorrow. Getting another shot at life, one I almost didn’t get, forced me to rethink what balance really means.

Today, I’m much more intentional about living in the present while still planning for the future. I still believe in long‑term strategy, but I’m no longer willing to miss the moments happening right in front of me. That shift has given me a healthier, more grounded sense of balance than I ever had before.

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?
My journey has taught me a few lessons that shape everything I do at Heartwood. The first is that slowing down is not a weakness. After my brain tumor diagnosis and treatment in 2023, I was forced to move at a different pace. That season showed me how important it is to be fully present with people. When someone sits across from me, they deserve my full attention, my patience, and my care. That is the foundation of every client relationship I have.

I also learned that real strength comes from community. I did not overcome cancer on my own. I made it through with God, my family, my friends, and the clients who encouraged me through every step. That experience shaped the way I show up for others. I want people to feel supported, not judged. I want them to know they have someone in their corner.

And finally, I learned that financial planning is not about how much money someone has. It is about helping people move forward with clarity and confidence. My brand is built on the belief that if someone is engaged and willing to take steps toward their goals, I want to help them. I care deeply about the relationships.

What I want the world to know about Heartwood is simple. This is a firm built on empathy, presence, and genuine care. I am proud of the work I do, but I am even more proud of the people I get to walk alongside. My story is not perfect, but it has shaped a business that is honest, human, and committed to serving people well.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend came to visit for a week, we would start in downtown Gilbert. There is always something happening, from Hale Theatre to the restaurants that never miss. We would grab breakfast at Liberty Market, stop by Joe’s Real BBQ, and of course get the prickly pear soft serve at Topo.

I would take them through Agritopia to walk the gardens and grab coffee, then spend a morning at the Riparian Preserve. We would do some light hiking at Usery Mountain to show off the views, and if the season is right, maybe float the Salt River.

For the bigger adventures, we would explore a few mining towns and spend a day in downtown Mesa for the local food spots. And when we head north to the Grand Canyon, we would make a stop at Bearizona. It is one of those places locals know is surprisingly fun. You drive through and see the wildlife up close, and it adds a little extra excitement to the trip before you get to the Canyon itself.

The whole week would be a mix of good food, good views, and the places locals actually love. Arizona has so much character, and I would want them to experience the parts that make this place feel like home.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate this shoutout to my entire “village” of people who have supported me through every season of life. There are too many of you to list here, but you know exactly who you are. Your encouragement, your belief in me, and your steady presence have shaped my story in more ways than I can count.

And a special shoutout goes to my wife and kids. You are the center of my world, the reason I push forward, and the greatest source of strength and joy in my life. None of this would mean anything without you.

Website: https://heartwoodadvisory.com

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