Meet Maxwell Wittenberg

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

Hi Maxwell, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
In the financial planning industry, many people don’t realize how much behavioral psychology influences successful wealth management. While financial success is often thought to be about numbers, strategy, and market performance, human emotions and decision-making biases play an equally—if not more—critical role in long-term financial outcomes. Many also underestimate the importance of tax-efficient planning, estate structuring, and risk management, all of which can have a bigger long-term impact than simply chasing high returns. Lastly, financial planning isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy—it’s about optimizing resources at any income level to ensure long-term security and peace of mind. As a fiduciary, I am legally and ethically obligated to put my clients’ best interests first. This is a critical distinction from many other financial advisors who operate under a suitability standard, meaning they can recommend products that are merely “suitable” but may carry higher fees, commissions, or conflicts of interest.

What should our readers know about your business?
Since 1988, we have helped our clients identify and overcome the obstacles that are in their way of achieving financial freedom. We work together to capture your life goals by customizing programs that define your risk tolerance and liquidity needs while working to give you a bigger future.

At Independent Wealth Solutions™, we base every decision on our unique strategic process that has been formed through decades of experience. Each of our clients gets personalized attention and a personalized plan. We know your life is always changing, and so are your dreams and goals. Our Financial Advisors help create a living, breathing plan to change, adapt, and grow as you do.

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.
A perfect Encinitas day starts with surfing Pipes Reef with friends, catching clean morning waves. After, we refuel at VG’s Donuts with fresh coffee and a classic maple bar. Next up, a few competitive rounds of pickleball at Cottonwood Creek Park to keep the energy high.

We take a breather at Swami’s Meditation Gardens, soaking in the ocean views, then walk the 101 to The Roxy for a laid-back lunch, live jazz, and a mid-day reset. To end the day, we enjoy a fresh, locally sourced dinner at Pacific Coast Grill, right on the sand, watching the waves roll in.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! I wouldn’t be where I am today without the mentorship, support, and influence of several key people and organizations. First and foremost, my family has been a huge source of inspiration—especially my father, who set the foundation for my understanding of finance and instilled the importance of integrity in business. His dedication to helping others build financial security shaped my approach to financial planning.

I also owe a great deal to the clients I’ve had the privilege of working with. Their trust, stories, and unique financial goals continuously push me to improve and refine my approach. Every interaction teaches me something new, reinforcing that financial planning is not just about numbers, but about people, their aspirations, and their legacy.

On a professional level, organizations like Counterpoint and other independent financial firms have played a role in shaping my investment philosophy—helping me stay focused on long-term, risk-managed strategies that truly serve clients’ best interests

Website: https://Www.independentwealthsolutions.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/independentwealthsolutions/