Melinda “Lindy” Camardella’s path to the financial services industry—and to her current role as a Financial Advisor with Equitable Advisors—was shaped by personal strength, a deep sense of purpose, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. A licensed acupuncturist and longtime advocate for her profession, Lindy made the shift to financial services after a life-changing health challenge gave her a new perspective.
“Going through stage 3 breast cancer made me realize I needed a career that offered flexibility—even during difficult times,” she shares. With a background in economics and business, Lindy reached out to trusted professionals in the field to explore her options. Their encouragement and support helped her begin the transition, and less than a year later, after completing her licensing exams, she launched her new career.
A Calling to Serve
What drew Lindy to financial services was the chance to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. “Helping others may sound cliché,” she says, “but I needed work that truly mattered. This profession allows you to show up for people during the best—and sometimes the hardest—moments of their lives.”
Lindy aims to focus on working with health practitioners and small business owners—two communities close to her heart. “It’s not hypothetical for me,” she explains. “I’ve lived it. That experience helps me provide guidance grounded in both best practices and real-life understanding.”
Bridging Health and Financial Wellness
After more than a decade as a Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, Lindy believes that true well-being requires harmony between physical health and financial stability. “When either is out of balance,” she explains, “even the simplest parts of life can feel heavy.”
Her move into financial advising wasn’t a sharp pivot—it was a natural extension of the work she’s always done: helping people prepare, adapt, and thrive. “I bring with me the same mindset I cultivated in medicine—calm under pressure, strategic thinking, and a deep respect for each individual’s goals.”
To Lindy, the market and the human body share similarities. “They both have rhythms. They respond to stress, demand attention, and reward those who take the time to understand their deeper patterns,” she says.
She doesn’t believe in quick fixes or empty promises. “I believe in showing up, doing the work, and planning with clarity and intention. The road to financial confidence isn’t always smooth, but it’s within reach for anyone willing to walk it with discipline and purpose.”
For Lindy, challenges are not setbacks - they are opportunities. “I work best with clients who value integrity, transparency, and a long-term view—people who, like me, believe that life’s greatest growth often comes from the very obstacles we didn’t expect.”
Why NAIFA? A Legacy of Advocacy
“I know the importance of an organization that protects your interests,” Lindy says. “Previously, I was president of our state acupuncture association, so I understand the importance of giving back to the community that looks out for your profession.”
Her local branch manager, Pierre Pajak, spoke so highly of NAIFA and encouraged new professionals to get involved. “Once I learned about the association,” she says, “joining was an easy choice.”
Although she hasn’t yet been politically involved with NAIFA, Lindy brings a strong advocacy background. “I’ve helped pass legislation in Illinois to protect and advance acupuncture and Chinese medicine. That kind of engagement matters—and NAIFA does it for us in financial services.”
Motivated by Growth and Connection
What keeps Lindy energized in this new field? “I love learning,” she says. “After 17 years in a different profession, diving into something new has sharpened my skills even as a practitioner.” Her biggest motivator? “My husband John, he always believes in me and makes me feel like Einstein’s younger sister,” she laughs.
For those considering a career in financial services, Lindy believes the rewards go beyond the professional. “It’s a wonderful way to stay connected to people as they grow and change. The long-lasting relationships you build are one of the greatest joys.”
Why This Career—and NAIFA—Matter
“This career gives me the chance to walk alongside people as they navigate life’s challenges and milestones,” Lindy says. “It’s an incredible way to serve.”
And when it comes to professional membership, she’s clear: “NAIFA isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s essential. It protects our profession, helps us grow, and ensures we can serve our clients at the highest level.”
Melinda M. Camardella offers securities through Equitable Advisors, LLC (NY, NY 212-314-4600), member FINRA/SIPC (Equitable Financial Advisors in MI & TN), offers investment advisory products and services through Equitable Advisors, LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor, and offers annuity and insurance products through Equitable Network, LLC. AGE-8128387.1 (7/25) (Exp. 7/29)