I can remember being about 10 years old with CNBC running in the background while my mom did household chores. I would find myself glued as billion dollar deals would be announced and stock prices moved this way and that way. The concept of profiting from doing careful research and making smart decisions (or getting lucky) was fascinating to me. This passion led me to major in finance at UVA where I was admitted into a class taught by John Griffin (a top hedge fund manager) and pitched an investment idea to his mentor and hedge fund legend, Julian Robertson.
As a life-long learner with great curiosity, I’ve seen a lot over the years and always try to become wiser with each passing year. I’ve been fortunate to learn from and work with some great people during my career. I’ve also learned what works and what doesn’t. My collective experience led me to join Andy to build a firm that is mission-driven…not profit-driven. A prior mentor of mine would say, “Always do what’s right, and everything else will work itself out.” That stuck with me and it still guides me today.
I’m living an intentional and fulfilling life, and I love how we can help others do the same. I’m truly grateful for my family and the client families I serve through JBW. I’m blessed beyond measure.
Education & Designations
- Bachelor’s of Science in Commerce - University of Virginia
- Certified Investment Management Analyst Program - Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania
- Graduate of the Catholic Charities Atlanta Leadership Program
- Graduate of the Philanthropic Advisor Leadership Institute
- CFP® - CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM
- CIMA® - Certified Investment Management Analyst
Learn More About Me
Favorite quote:
"When your values are clear to you, making decisions becomes easier." - Roy E. Disney
What is a problem in the industry that you want to fix?
How firms view their clients as "numbers". Some firms refer to their client as "A, B, or C" clients while others reference the portfolio size (a "$5 million client" as an example). I want the industry to stop putting dollar signs above clients' heads. A client is a "who" not a "what". Advisors should be here to serve people, and our industry (and clients) will thrive once we embrace life-centered planning over asset-centered planning.
What are the values that drive you?
I value faith, integrity, family, and service.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?
I enjoy spending time with my kids, dating my wife, farming, woodworking, hiking, learning new things, and singing in my church choir.
Beach or mountains?
Mountains - I enjoy the serenity and fresh mountain air.
Early riser or night owl??
Definitely early riser. I have 5 kids and a barnful of animals... I have to be!
What is the most inspiring part of your job?
When a client tearfully looks you in the eyes and thanks you for all you do. It doesn't get much better than that.
If you could eat only one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Our family does a Mexican feast every Sunday after church. It's fun and delicious, and my wife and I wash it down with margaritas!
What is the best gift you ever received?
My faith (from my parents). It drives my values and is a source of true joy and peace in my life.