Our People

Michelle Bender has a gift for connecting with people, and it’s certainly one that sets her apart as a financial advisor. While she loves all of the details in financial planning, her greatest joy is serving as a guide for some of the most important decisions in people’s lives. You may think as the owner and president that Michelle is not as visible, spending her days managing her staff and office. But no, Michelle breaks the mold taking time to meet with clients face-to-face and hear firsthand what they envision for their future. For her, the thrill is in watching a couple realize their dreams in retirement. It’s about building confidence and taking a compassionate approach, and there is perhaps no one better equipped for this role than she.

Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Michelle had an “aha!” moment in college as an intern at an independent financial planning firm. She was hooked on helping people discover financial freedom from the get go, and has been working as a financial planner ever since. She graduated from Seton Hill College (now University) with dual majors in Accounting and Human Resource Management.

When she isn’t meeting with clients, she enjoys spending time with her family (even serving as a chauffeur for her twins’ sporting events!) All that zest for life shows up in her personal time too; you can frequently find Michelle training for a marathon or working out on her Peloton.

Steve Plewes began his career in the financial services industry in 1980. Over his many years of practice, he provided his clients sound financial advice helping them progress one step closer to retirement. At this time, Steve now works closely in the office with his staff as the managing director of the firm.

Actively involved in the financial services industry, Steve has served as President and board member of five professional organizations. Widely known for his expertise, Steve has been interviewed and quoted by various newspapers, radio and television programs, and in addition has published numerous articles regarding financial strategies and services. Steve is also a frequent industry speaker, both nationally and internationally.

After making their home in Gaithersburg, MD for over 30 years, Steve and his wife Jan now call St Michaels, on Maryland's Eastern Shore, their home. They have three children and four grandchildren. Steve enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf, kayaking, fishing, playing music with his band, and performing solo gigs. Steve may be reached at steve@pf-consultants.com

Matt is responsible for providing support in the development and implementation of financial plans, wealth management and related projects. He is also responsible for various levels of investment analysis and service.

Matt graduated in 2006 from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a minor in Communication. He brings back-office Broker-Dealer experience having worked as a Brokerage Operations Specialist and a Direct Business Principal. Matt obtained his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM certification in 2013 and currently holds the Series 7 (General Securities Representative), 24 (General Securities Principal), and 66 (Uniformed Combined State Law Examination) registrations. Additionally, Matt holds Life, Health, and Variable Insurance licenses. Matt is a registered sales assistant with Kestra Investment Services, LLC.

In his spare time, Matt enjoys spending time with his family, playing football, and following the Florida Gators. Matt may be reached at matt@pf-consultants.com

A passionate go-getter, Grace handles many of the minute details for all client accounts including transferring accounts, distributions, contributions, and assisting with any questions you might have. She has an eye for details, and does an excellent job serving the clients at Potomac Financial Consultants. Grace is an unregistered associated person of Kestra Investment Services, LLC.

Grace is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. (This is your opportunity to get a native’s take on the incredible food and culture of Baton Rouge!) She holds a BA in Marketing from Southeastern Louisiana University and has more than ten years of experience in the financial industry.

Exploring the world with her husband and little boy is what makes Grace smile. They are an adventurous family that enjoys hiking, biking, and spending time on the water.

Our very own “jill of all trades” is our Executive Sales Assistant, Candace. She is always willing to assist the other members of the team to better serve our clients. Candace schedules client meetings and is an expert researcher when it comes to life insurance or other policy information a client may need. Candace is an unregistered associated person of Kestra Investment Services, LLC.

A graduate of West Virginia University, Candace values the intimacy in client relationships that is a natural byproduct of a small office environment. She will remember your name, and makes every client feel like a VIP.

When not at her desk, you can likely find Candace on horseback. She rides and competes with her horses, spends time at home on the farm, and is an avid lover of all animals. 

Brendan O’Rourke joined Potomac Financial Consultants in May of 2022 as a Financial Advisor and he is also a Certified Financial Planner ®.  He has a wealth of experience in the financial services industry from his previous days at two nationally recognized firms, Charles Schwaab and Morgan Stanley.  Brendan prides himself on communicating effectively so clients will have the utmost confidence in all phases of their financial lives. He likes to work creatively to ensure that clients can achieve their goals in the most efficient manner possible. Easing client concerns as they enter a new phase of life is his favorite part of being a trusted financial advisor.

Brendan graduated from Towson University in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science and is a proud graduate of DeMatha Catholic High School.  When he isn’t meeting with clients or spending time with his daughter, Lucy, and lovely wife, Cloey, you can find him on the golf course with friends. 

Welcome Liz Outhwaite to the Potomac Financial Consultants family, as our Office Administrator. With her friendly demeanor, she will greet you when visiting or calling our office. Liz’s passion is helping and meeting new people, so she will be happy to assist you when reaching out to Potomac Financial Consultants. She previously worked as an Account Manager/Office Assistant in Bethesda, MD, and has plenty of experience as an Office Administrator. Liz is an unregistered associated person of Kestra Investment Services, LLC.

Liz was born and raised in Montgomery County, Maryland. She attended Montgomery College in Rockville, and studied Early Childhood Education, where she earned her certificate. Liz is also fluent in Spanish.

Liz lives in Germantown, MD and loves to spend time with her husband, son and dogs. They enjoy traveling, going to the beach, hiking or exploring the areas around them. When at home, Liz likes to be crafty and recently has started baking with her son.

Pam is our Office Administrator at Potomac Financial Consultants.  She is the first welcoming smile you see when visiting our office, and the friendly voice answering the phone belongs to her.  Most recently, she worked in construction consulting as Executive Coordinator/Office Manager. With her many years of office administration, Pam ensures our office runs smoothly. Pam is an unregistered associated person of Kestra Investment Services, LLC.

Pam is a Maryland native. She grew up in Montgomery County and has been a resident of Damascus for the past 21 years. She especially enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren and is passionate about attending her grandchildren’s volleyball, softball, and baseball games and tournaments.