Meet Cindy Locker

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

Hi Cindy, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting Next Chapter Finances came from a deeply personal and professional realization: that many individuals—especially women—going through major life transitions like divorce, retirement, or the loss of a partner often feel overwhelmed and unsupported when it comes to their finances. We saw a real need for a financial service that offered not just technical expertise, but also empathy, education, and guidance.

With a background in finance, education, and years of experience helping businesses manage their books and cash flow, we wanted to create a space where people could gain clarity and confidence around their money. We didn’t want to just crunch numbers—We wanted to empower people to make informed decisions and feel more in control of their financial futures.

Next Chapter Finances was built around that mission: to provide personalized, compassionate financial coaching for people navigating change, and to help them write a stronger next chapter in their lives.

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?
Next Chapter Finances was created with a clear mission: to guide individuals—particularly women—through financial transitions with clarity, confidence, and compassion. What sets us apart is our focus on both the emotional and practical sides of money. We understand that life doesn’t happen in neat spreadsheets. Whether someone is navigating divorce, retirement, career changes, or loss, we meet them where they are and help them take control of their finances—without shame, pressure, or confusion.

We’re proud to offer financial coaching that feels personal and empowering. We break things down in a way that makes sense, provide tools that create long-term change, and offer support that’s rooted in empathy. One of the services we’re especially proud of is our Clarity Portrait, which gives clients a clear visual of where their money is going and what’s possible moving forward. It’s not just numbers—it’s a reflection of their goals, values, and future.

Getting here wasn’t easy. Like many entrepreneurs, we’ve faced our share of self-doubt, financial uncertainty, and growing pains. But we kept showing up—for our clients, and for our mission. We leaned on community, stayed grounded in our “why,” and gave ourselves the same grace we encourage in others.

A big lesson we’ve learned: money is never just about money. It’s about security, freedom, identity, and dreams. That’s why we don’t just coach—we listen, we teach, and we walk alongside our clients during some of life’s most pivotal moments.

What we want the world to know is this: You don’t have to go it alone. You don’t have to be “good with money” to take control of it. At Next Chapter Finances, we believe every financial story has the potential for a powerful next chapter—and we’re here to help you write it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting for the week, I’d want to give them the full “local experience”—the spots I love most and the places that really capture the spirit of our community.

Day 1 – Welcome to Grandview
We’d kick things off with a relaxing glass of wine at Vinoteca, one of my favorite little neighborhood spots. It’s cozy, laid-back, and the perfect place to catch up. Dinner would be at 3rd & Hollywood—their warm, elegant vibe and delicious food never disappoint.

Day 2 – Trail Time, Coffee Breaks & Columbus Crew Magic

We’d start the morning with a bike ride along the Olentangy River Trail, soaking up the sunshine, trees, and great conversation. Afterward, we’d refuel with a latte from Stauf’s Coffee—a Grandview staple—followed by a buttery croissant from Dan the Baker (truly the best in town).

Later in the day, we’d head out for an adventure: walking or biking from Grandview to Lower.com Field to catch a Columbus Crew game. The trail takes you straight to the new pedestrian bridge, which leads right into Astor Park and the stadium entrance—it’s scenic, stress-free, and no need to worry about parking.

If you prefer to drive partway, you can park at the Grandview Yard Hofbräuhaus lot for free and hop on the trail from there. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just love a good crowd and cold beer, a Crew game is such a fun way to experience the energy of Columbus.

Day 3 – Dogs + Nature
A peaceful morning walk at Quarry Trails with the dogs is a must. The trails are beautiful and it’s such a grounding way to start the day. Afterward, maybe a casual lunch outdoors at Northstar Café before spending the afternoon browsing Grandview’s cute local shops.

Day 4 – Arts & Culture
We’d take a trip to the Short North Arts District, explore the galleries, and maybe pop into The Wexner Center for the Arts or Franklin Park Conservatory depending on what exhibits are showing. Dinner at The Guild House would wrap the day in style.

Day 5 – Chill & Chat
This would be a slower day—maybe a morning yoga class, then lounging with coffee and books (or a podcast walk). We’d stop by the Grandview Farmers Market if it’s open, and later enjoy cocktails on a patio somewhere like High Bank Distillery or Antiques on High.

Day 6 – Day Trip Adventure
We might take a short drive to German Village to stroll the charming brick streets, visit The Book Loft, and grab lunch at Pistacia Vera (more pastries, please!). Or if we’re craving a nature escape, we’d head to Hocking Hills for a hike and some fresh air.

Day 7 – Brunch + Wind Down
We’d wrap up the week with brunch at Fox in the Snow, followed by a last slow walk at Scioto Mile before heading home—hopefully refreshed, well-fed, and filled with good memories.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely—we wouldn’t be where we are today without the support of others, and one person who absolutely deserves a heartfelt shoutout is Kelle Eubank. From the very beginning, Kelle has believed in our mission at Next Chapter Finances and has rallied behind us every step of the way.

After navigating her own divorce and emerging stronger, Kelle has become a fierce advocate for women going through similar transitions. Her strength, encouragement, and unwavering support have not only lifted us up, but have also inspired countless women to take charge of their lives and finances.

Kelle embodies the spirit of resilience and community that we hope to bring to every client we serve—and we are so grateful for her presence in our story.

Website: https://www.nextchapterfinances.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/next.chapterfinances/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/96930726/admin/dashboard/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556088472295

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