About Us
Next Chapter Finances: Your Financial Partner in Life's Transitions
Life Changes Can Be Overwhelming, But You Don't Have to Do It Alone
Life is full of unexpected twists—divorce, the loss of a partner, or even just the challenges of starting fresh in a new chapter. These transitions are hard, and they can stir up a lot of fear, uncertainty, and stress, especially when it comes to your finances. If you're feeling overwhelmed by all the financial decisions you need to make, you're not alone. At Next Chapter Finances, we’re here to help you navigate the tough times with clarity, confidence, and support. We know that when your financial picture is unclear, it’s hard to focus on anything else. That’s where we come in—helping you get your finances in order so you can move forward with peace of mind.
Life Changes are Overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone!
We’re Cindy and Carol, the founders of Next Chapter Finances, and we know firsthand how difficult it is to start over. After over a decade of teaching financial literacy to high school students, we realized that there was a real need for financial guidance—especially for women navigating life changes. In 2023, we launched Next Chapter Finances to provide financial clarity and support to women who, like us, were facing life’s big changes.
In 2016, Carol went through an unexpected divorce that left her feeling lost and scared, particularly about her finances. She had always let her ex-husband handle the money, and suddenly she was faced with the responsibility of managing everything on her own. The process was long, frustrating, and full of mistakes. But, she eventually found her footing—and that’s when the idea for Next Chapter Finances was born. Carol wanted to make sure that others didn’t have to go through the same steep learning curve and emotional toll. She wanted to create a space where people could get the guidance they needed without feeling ashamed or overwhelmed.
What We Do: A Personal Approach to Your Financial Journey
At Next Chapter Finances, we don’t just look at your numbers—we look at you. We understand that no two life changes are the same, and neither are your financial needs. We’ll take the time to listen, understand your unique situation, and then create a customized plan that works for you. Whether you’re dealing with a divorce, a loss, or any other significant life change, we’ll help you break down your finances into manageable steps, making the process less stressful and more empowering.
We don’t just hand you a plan and leave you to figure it out on your own. We’re with you every step of the way. We coach you through the process, helping you gain confidence and understanding as you take control of your financial future. Our goal is for you to feel empowered, so you can stop worrying about money and start focusing on what really matters in your new chapter of life.
Our Beliefs: Financial Confidence Leads to Greater Possibilities
We believe that financial clarity is the key to unlocking your future. When you know where you stand, it becomes much easier to dream again, set meaningful goals, and take action with confidence. Our approach is all about small, steady progress—whether that means reducing stress, transforming your financial habits, or simply building a healthier relationship with your money. Whatever your version of success looks like, we’re here to help you get there.
I am Cindy Locker, the Co-Founder of Next Chapter Finances, and I am thrilled to share my story with you.
As an entrepreneur, wife, mother, former educator, and accountant, my journey has been marked by diverse experiences and a resolute passion for helping women harness the power of their finances. I believe that financial freedom, reduced stress, and the realization of financial goals are attainable with proper planning and guidance.
My professional journey has encompassed diverse roles, including working with PWC and successfully managing bookkeeping for businesses, ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies. My educational background includes a bachelor's degree in economics from Smith College and a certificate of accounting from the University of Southern California as well being a Certified Personal Finance Counselor.
Throughout my career, I've witnessed the substantial support that businesses receive to manage their cash flow effectively. However, I've also seen how challenging it can be to manage personal expenses, especially when life throws unexpected curveballs. My mission is to help you transform your financial situation and realize your dreams of building a lasting legacy. Let me share the knowledge and experience I've gained to guide you toward financial freedom.
A Personal Connection:
Beyond my professional pursuits, I cherish my roots in Boston, where I was born and raised. Family is at the core of my life. I am married to Steve who has led the successful business, Locker Soccer Academy, for the past two decades. I actively contribute to the business side of this venture. Our journey together has graced us with two wonderful children and two lovable doodles.
When I'm not immersed in work, strategizing ways to assist my clients, you'll find me indulging in my passions: traveling, running, reading, and enjoying great food and wine.
Welcome to Next Chapter Finances! I am co-founder, Carol Van Fossen, and I am passionate about helping you to pave a path toward your financial independence and freedom! Life changes such as divorce, retirement, promotions, inheritance or loss of a partner might have changed the landscape of your financial plan. My personal experience through divorce and other life challenges has taught me the importance of solid cash flow management and financial planning. I believe that creating a plan for your money helps you to plan for the future and to reach your goals. I am here to help you navigate the financial impact that life’s new chapters bring.
My career began with 30 years as a mathematics educator, teaching in middle and high school and at the college level. Most recently, I began to add financial concepts as they integrate into the high school curriculum. I hold a bachelors degree in mathematics, a masters degree in mathematics education and I am a Certified Personal Financial Counselor. In addition to teaching, my experience also includes 5 years of managing finances for a medical office.
Along with my work in personal bookkeeping, I teach meditation and yoga. If you don’t find me at my desk or in the yoga studio, I am likely walking my dog, riding my bike, or in a local coffee shop indulging my passion for the Americano!
I am excited that you are taking the first steps toward financial Independence.
