John McGowan (CFP®, MBA)

John McGowan focuses in the
following client markets or areas of practice:

Business Owners

LGBT Couples and Families

Retirement Planning & Distribution Rules

Socially Responsible Investments

Tax Planning

Women's Financial Planning Issues

Planning Specialties

John’s career in financial services spans three decades, helping individuals and families manage the opportunities, risks, and financial complexities that come with modern life. In recent years, John became increasingly concerned as he watched many social and environmental protections stalling and even eliminated in our legislatures and courts. In response, he founded Mandala Financial Advisors, an independent wealth management group who provides financial guidance to progressive people who wish to achieve their financial goals in the most sustainable and responsible way possible.

John believes every client must begin by constructing a strong financial foundation. He guides each client towards financial wellness by engaging them in thoughtful planning, education, and coaching. Once the foundation is in place, he uses ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) investing strategies to help clients achieve their financial goals and foster positive social and environmental impact.

John has an MBA from the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business and a B.S. in Mathematics from Loyola University of Chicago. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional.

Additional Information

John is openly gay which taught him early on to embrace the things that make each person unique. He's an outdoor and fitness enthusiast who likes to spend time hiking, skiing, and exploring. He's a student of secular Buddhism, always growing and learning to be a better version of himself.

John is passionately engaged in community service. He’s the past Board Chair of Lookingglass Theatre (Chicago), and currently serves on the boards of Mainframe Studios (Des Moines) and Central Colorado Conservancy (Salida). He has a long history of engagement in LGBTQ and human rights organizations and is an active member of Rotary International.