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Get to Know Austin Private Wealth

A Group of Dedicated Professionals

Who Adhere to Acceptance and Inclusion




Alison Cassorla Photo
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Alison Cassorla

Planning Analyst


Alison Cassorla

Planning Analyst

PHONE: 512-886-4114 

EMAIL: ALISON.CASSORLA@AUSTINPRIVATEWEALTH.COM

Alison graduated from the University of Georgia with a bachelor’s degree in Management but found a career as an Operations and Information Systems Manager, in the philanthropic division, for a local non-profit. While learning software programs and organizing sizable amounts of data was a large portion of her responsibilities, working with clients and taking care of their needs was her favorite.

Here’s what makes Alison tick:



Influences:


While my parents and sister were an important part of my growing up, my grandmother had the most influence in teaching the importance of having strong family relationships. She and her siblings were orphaned as young children. Instead of being sent to an orphanage, my grandmother and her sisters were split up and raised by different family members. In 1960, before most people were interested in genealogy, she and her cousins created the first version of our family tree, going back to my 5th great-grandfather. In the 70’s she wrote quarterly family newsletters and mailed them to hundreds of family members in multiple countries. She continued the newsletter well into her 90’s. She was a real matriarch.

Favorite Things:


Puzzles have become my new favorite activity. I find the actions of searching, finding, assembling, and completing hugely satisfying.

Favorite Travel:


I like to mix physical activity and history while traveling within the USA. A 2019 vacation to Oregon included a car trip along the west coast, whitewater rafting down the Rouge River, and a visit to Crater Lake.

Favorite Books:


Until video streaming became so popular, reading was my number one hobby. I enjoyed reading so much, I worked for a national bookstore chain during high school and college. I used to love historical romance novels and my favorite authors were Amada Quick and Johanna Lindsey. Now a days, I prefer Jack Reacher-type books.

Favorite Apps:


  • Canasta and Zoom- a great way to socialize with friends during an epidemic
  • Waze- I never drive anywhere without
  • Jackpot Party Slots - just like the slots in Las Vegas!
  • Dry Bar - comedy app

Something most people wouldn’t know about you:


I played kickball in the Austin Women’s Kickball Association and was a member of the original Margarita Mamas kickball team. My teammates and I had daughters that played in the NWA Kickball league. We played regular season games in Austin and Annual tournaments in Corpus Christie. I played for 5 years and had a blast. However, playing kickball is a lot harder than it looks and I decided to stop after too many injuries to my fingers.

Favorite Quote:


Dance as though no one is watching you, Love as though you have never been hurt before, Sing as though no one can hear you, Live as though heaven is on earth - souza

Anything else you love or that gets you excited?


Scrap Booking has been a hobby of mine since high school. I used to collect mementos from places I had been and activities I had done and create a scrap book every year. It always brings back cherished memories when I look at them. Currently, I make photo albums, online, to give to family members for birthdays, anniversaries, and Mother’s Day.

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Kyle Cook, CFP®

Financial Advisor

Kyle Cook, CFP®

Financial Advisor

PHONE: 512.886.4125

EMAIL: kyle.cook@austinprivatewealth.com


Kyle grew up in Maineville, Ohio, a suburb of Cincinnati. He graduated from Centre College, a liberal arts school in Danville, Kentucky, where he majored in Financial Economics. Upon graduation he attended a yearlong training program for young financial advisors in St. Louis, Missouri. Upon completion of the program, he moved to Austin, Texas and began building financial plans to help clients accomplish their financial goals.

Here’s what makes Kyle tick:



Influences:


My wife and my family back in the Midwest. They are huge influences in my life of trying every day to be a person with integrity, trustworthiness, and looking for the positives in any situation.

Perspective on Work:


I believe that forming connections with your clients and coworkers on a personal level will allow your workplace to be something more than just a job. When you have a stake in your clients' lives and their goals, you will make your profession worthwhile. I am also a believer that whenever you say you are going to do something, always follow through, no matter how small it may seem.

Favorite Things:


My hometown sports teams- the Cincinnati Bengals and Cincinnati Reds. And I love to play golf and tennis as a way to stay active.

Favorite Movie:


Ocean’s 11

Favorite Apps:


  • Espn App
  • Nike Run Club
  • Spotify
  • My Chess App

Favorite Travel:


Visiting small towns in Texas with a lot of character.

Anything else you love or that gets you excited?


I love hearing impacts that our company has had on clients’ lives. Being able to see a financial plan put to work and getting a client to their goals is what motivates me in this profession.

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Ingrid Carrasco

Office Administrator - Corpus Christi

Ingrid Carrasco

Office Administrator

Phone: 512-886-4114 

Email: Ingrid.Carrasco@AustinPrivateWealth.com

Bio coming soon!

Raoul Celerier, CFP®, MBA, CEP®, CRPC® Photo
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Raoul Celerier, CFP®, MBA, CEP®, CRPC®

Co-Managing Partner

Raoul Celerier, CFP®, MBA, CEP®, CRPC®

Co-Managing Partner

Phone: 512-886-4114 

Email: Raoul.Celerier@AustinPrivateWealth.com

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Raoul has been a financial advisor for more than 18 years and, together with Dan Kraus, co-founded Austin Private Wealth in 2006. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner, a Certified Estate Planner® (National Institute of Certified Estate Planners) and a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor® (College for Financial Planning.) Over the years he has been the recipient of numerous awards and was most recently named to the 2022 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors list. 

His prior experience as a marketing executive and small business owner taught him the precious value of time and the importance of planning while working with busy professionals. 

Born in France, Raoul received his BA in marketing from the European University of America in Paris followed by his MBA in marketing and international business from the International University of America//California State University Hayward. He completed the Financial Planning Certificate Program at the University of Texas at Austin.


Areas of Focus


  • Cross Border Planning
  • Tax Reduction Strategies
  • Real Estate Analysis
  • Retirement Planning & Small Business Exit Strategies
  • Estate Planning & Trust Administration
  • Domestic Partner Planning


But underneath the professional background and credentials, here’s what makes Raoul tick:



Influences:


During my first career in International Marketing and Sales I realized that, although successful, I was missing a sense of purpose in my job. I was also finding myself giving financial advice to my close friends on a regular basis and wanting to know more about it. It all came together when I started my current career. It was a revelation that helped me get through the difficult initial years.

Perspective on Work:


Every day I show up for work I still have the desire to make a difference in people's lives like I did the first day I started. I especially enjoy being part of my clients’ lives in joyous as well as difficult moments. I believe we are so privileged to experience life in all its facets through the lives of our clients, helping them resolve family situations, seeing their kids go to college and form families and planning for future generations.

Favorite Things:


Soccer aficionado - my dream retirement would be to travel the world attending local and international soccer tournaments across the planet while taking local cooking classes.
Collecting wine is fun and waiting for a bottle to be drinkable for many years is an exercise of self-discipline.
Skiing is awesome, but I am still not sure if it is the skiing itself, the beauty of the mountain scenery or the "Aprés-Ski" that makes it so great!

Favorite Travel:


Traveling the world with my family never gets old and opens my eyes to something new every single time. Among our favorites: turquoise waters of the Caribbean and South Pacific, Andean mountains of Ecuador, Paisanos de Uruguay, food vendors in Bangkok, temples of Angkor, rugged mountains of Laos, the majesty of the Grand Canyon, the serenity of Big Bend, beautiful cities of St Petersburg, San Francisco, Rio, Sydney and Vancouver...to be continued.

Favorite Books and Movies:


All-time favorite book is Les Rougon-Macquart, a collective title given to a cycle of twenty novels by French writer Émile Zola. Subtitled "Natural and social history of a family under the Second Empire," it follows the life of one family during the Second French Empire (1852–1870). I spent a summer reading all 20.
Most Al Pacino movies are my favorites.

Favorite Apps:


For travel, Trip it and Momondo are amazing and so useful.
Miscellaneous: Credit Karma, Cellar Tracker, Nike Run Club, FuboTV, TED

Anything else you love or that gets you excited?


Real estate gets me excited in all its different forms and watching a rundown building being transformed into a desirable place never ceases to amaze me. Most important to me is my family and my adopted country, I feel so blessed with all the opportunities that we have had and with living in a great country.

Favorite Quotes:


John Quincy Adams: “I am a warrior, so that my son may be a merchant, so that his son may be a poet.” (P.S. -I personally would substitute the word builder to warrior.)

Arthur Ashe: “Success is a journey, not a destination. The doing is often more important than the outcome.”


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Melissa Clark

Implementation Team Lead

Melissa Clark

Implementation Team Lead

Phone: 512-886-4114 

Email: Melissa.Clark@AustinPrivateWealth.com

Melissa loves being part of Austin Private Wealth because she believes so strongly in the work they do – helping people achieve their financial goals. She cherishes being able to develop relationships with them and helping them on a personal level as well.

But underneath the professional background and credentials, here’s what makes Melissa tick:


Favorite Things:


My favorite sports are sand volleyball, football and basketball. My favorite pastime is spending time with my family.

Favorite Travel:


I love to go on cruises to see many different places at one time.

Favorite Movie:


Pretty Woman

Something most people would not know about me:


I love to do arts and crafts. I used to be a photographer and wish I would do more of it in my spare time.

Favorite Quote:


“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships” - Michael Jordan

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Ken Daly

Trading Specialist

Ken Daly

Trading Specialist

Phone: 512-886-4114 

Email: Kenneth.Daly@AustinPrivateWealth.com

Ken Daly joined Austin Private Wealth in 2017. His father worked on the floor of the stock exchange and Ken started working for brokerage firms during summers while in college.

He loves trading, following the markets, basketball and traveling to places with natural beauty.

Graduated from New York State University at Fredonia. Grew up and spent most of his life in the NYC area.

Worked as a market maker at the former Knight/Trimark Group. Less known: Knows hand signals from his early days on the exchange floor.

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McKenzie Decker

Office Administrator

McKenzie Decker

Office Administrator



McKenzie is a Native Texan who enjoys floating in the river, watching films, and meeting new people. She is currently attending Texas A&M University Central Texas, studying for her BBA in HR Management. McKenzie has a passion for connecting with people from all walks of life and for creating harmonious spaces wherever she goes.

Here’s what makes McKenzie tick:



Influences:


My boyfriend is a huge motivator for me to continue to pursue my career and excel in my field. He is Canadian, and we are working to get him live with me in Texas. Our future together is my biggest motivator to be successful.

Favorite Things:


Diet Dr. Pepper, playing music to match the vibes, dancing like nobody’s watching.

Favorite Apps:


  • TikTok – Mostly to laugh
  • Letterboxd - I LOVE films. I like to keep track of what I watch and see what others’ perspectives are on movies I watch.
  • Yahtzee – Just for fun to keep my mind stimulated.

Favorite Movie:


Pearl (2022)

Favorite Quote:


“Perfection is a roadblock to progress.”

Perspective on Work:


We spend most of our lives working, so I want to do something I enjoy. I have a passion for people. If I can incorporate that passion into my workspace, I feel truly satisfied knowing I am making a difference in the lives of others.

Joshua Dvorak, CFP® Photo
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Joshua Dvorak, CFP®

Partner, Director of Investments

Joshua Dvorak, CFP®

Partner 

Phone: 512-886-4114 

Email: Joshua.Dvorak@AustinPrivateWealth.com



Josh started his career in 2012 with Fidelity Investment. He held many different roles while with the firm including positions in their active trading department before finally settling on their investment solutions team. Josh moved down to Austin in 2016 where he joined the Austin Private Wealth team. Josh currently advises on all of the firm's corporate and retirement plans and investment strategies while also serving clients on the wealth management and financial planning side of the business. In 2019, he completed the requirements to become a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. He is also a member of the Financial Planning Association and the Estate Planning Council of Central Texas. 


Here’s what makes Josh tick:



Influences:


There have been two people who have had the most influence on what I do and how I think; Warren Buffett and my mother, Kelly. Warren has shown me how to find true value not only in investments but in life. My mother was the one who instilled the work ethic and drive to be a better person for humanity.

Perspective on Work:


My true happiness comes from seeing others succeed. My job as an advisor is to be thoughtful, selfless, and empathetic when discussing any situation, no matter how big or small. My goal is to always provide more depth or education around certain areas so that we may make the best decisions in that moment. I am naturally an intellectually curious individual, which helps when problem solving or thinking through a complex decision for a client.

Favorite Things:


I am universally attracted to all sports due to my competitive background. On a personal level, I still try to compete in golf and tennis but love to watch football, basketball and baseball.

Favorite Travel:


Boston. I love the history and grittiness of the city.

Favorite Books:


I am an avid reader and these are a few that I would recommend:

  • Poor Charlie’s Almanack, Charlie Munger
  • Thinking Fast and Slow, Daniel Kahneman
  • The Birth Of Plenty, William J. Bernstein
  • Factfulness, Hans Rosling

Favorite Apps:


Wall Street Journal
Barron’s
Austin Business Journal
Spotify

Something most people wouldn’t know about you:


I love playing and listening to the piano.

Favorite Quotes:


I am an avid reader and these are a few that I would recommend:

  • "The chains of habit are too light to be felt until they are too heavy to be broken."
  • "It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you'll do things differently.”

Anything else you love or that gets you excited?


My guilty pleasure is a nice glass of whiskey on ice over the weekend.

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Sadie Hardt

Manager of Business Development and Marketing


Sadie Hardt

Manager of Business Development and Marketing

PHONE: 512-886-4130 

EMAIL: sadie.hardt@austinprivatewealth.com

Sadie joined Austin Private Wealth at the beginning of 2024 as Manager of Business Development & Marketing. Prior to joining APW, Sadie was director of business development at a wealth management firm in Denver, CO.

Sadie was born and raised in Dallas, TX and got her Bachelor of Arts in Journalism at the University of Alabama. After college, Sadie moved to Spain to teach English. After two years in Spain, she moved to Denver, CO to enjoy everything living near the mountains has to offer. She started her professional career in pharmaceutical sales until she found her way to wealth management in 2021. In 2023, Sadie decided it was time to move closer to home and moved to Austin.

Sadie enjoys spending time with her dog, Boo, keeping an active social and travel life, and seeing live music.

Here’s what makes Sadie tick:



Influences:


My family in different areas of my life. I go to my dad a lot for business/work advice, my mom for relationships and my brother and his fiancé for just about anything. I rely heavily on my close friends as well.

Favorite Things:


Long walks with my dog, Boo, crisp and sunny fall/winter days, exploring new neighborhoods by foot, audio books and podcasts, finding new music, trying new restaurants, going to see live music.

Perspective on work:


My dad has always said, “If you get it right, sometimes work can be more fun than fun,” and that is what I think everyone should strive for.

Favorite Apps:


  • Spotify
  • Instagram

Favorite Quote:


“When you learn a little, you feel you know a lot. But when you learn a lot, you realize you know very little.” – Jay Shetty

Favorite Travel


I have grown up going to Hilton Head Island, SC, with my mom’s side of the family for my entire life, so that is a very special place to me. Additionally, my family unanimously decided the best trip we’ve ever taken together was to The Galapagos Islands. The amount of different species of wildlife, beautiful nature and their incredible societal efforts to protect it all is amazing..

Dan Kraus, MBA, CFP®, CRPC®, APMA® Photo
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Dan Kraus, MBA, CFP®, CRPC®, APMA®

Co-Managing Partner

Dan Kraus, MBA, CFP®, CRPC®, APMA®

Co-Managing Partner

Phone: 512-886-4114 

Email: Dan.Kraus@AustinPrivateWealth.com


Dan has more than twenty-seven years of financial services experience. Prior to his current role, Dan held numerous positions in both trading and marketing at Fidelity Investments and American Express. Wanting to leave corporate America and pursue an entrepreneurial path, Dan and his wife Rochelle moved from New York City to Austin in 2004. It was there that he met Raoul Celerier. Together, they founded Austin Private Wealth. 

Dan holds a BA in economics from Binghamton University and an MBA (magna cum laude) from the Olin Graduate School of Business at Babson College. He is the recipient of numerous awards during his career.

Areas of Focus

  • Women's Financial Strategies
  • Investments
  • Small Business
  • Charitable Giving
  • Complex Financial Planning

But underneath the professional background and credentials, here’s what makes Dan tick:



Influences:


My values and work ethic come from my parents, but this is always what I have wanted to do.

Perspective on Work:


I love working with people and thinking creatively about how to accomplish all of the things they want to do in life. I especially enjoy helping clients to see possibilities that seemed out of reach and then working with them until they are achieved.

Favorite Things:


  • Traveling with my family
  • Listening to podcasts and books
  • Playing ping pong
  • Watching the Boston Celtics and New England Patriots
  • Boating on Lake Travis

Favorite Travel:


Anywhere international. I love to visit places where all my assumptions about how life works are questioned.

Favorite Books:


  • Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind, Yuval Noah Harari
  • Pillars of the Earth, Ken Follett

Favorite Apps:


  • Overcast
  • Audible
  • Fitbit
  • Evernote

Something most people wouldn’t know about you:


I taught myself the guitar in college and have been playing for over 25 years but, somehow, I’m still the worst musician in my family by a country mile!

Favorite Quotes:


  • "Most people make two common mistakes. We set our goals too low, and we try to accomplish them too quickly." - Rick Warren
  • "If you have more dreams in your head than achievements, you are still young." - Shimon Peres
  • "Do not condemn others for judgment that differs from your own. You may both be wrong." - Dandamis

Anything else you love or that gets you excited?


I recently stepped down as the chair of the board for Shalom Austin, the umbrella organization of the Austin Jewish Community. It has been an incredible opportunity to serve and I am passionate about supporting and developing the entire Austin community in years to come.

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Noe Lopez, CFP®

Financial Advisor

Noe Lopez, CFP® 

Financial Advisor

Phone: 512-886-4114 

Email: noe.Lopez@AustinPrivateWealth.com


Noe joined Austin Private Wealth in 2021, as a Financial Advisor. Prior to joining Austin Private Wealth, Noe was an Associate Advisor at a local firm.  In 2019, Noe completed the requirements to become a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional.

Born and raised in Edinburg, a town in South Texas, Noe earned his Bachelor’s in Finance at the University of Texas-Pan American and furthered his education by receiving a Master’s in Personal Financial Planning at Texas Tech University

Outside of the office, Noe often entertains visiting friends as a mock-tour guide for Austin.  He also enjoys spending quality time among family with activities such as traveling and fishing.

Here's what makes Noe tick:



Influences:


My parents are the most important influences in my life. My parents have engrained the value of hard work ethic, commitment to family and the importance of being an honest and genuine person.

Favorite Things:


  • Fishing new lakes and bays
  • Watching my Red Raiders

Favorite Travel:


Northern Arizona. I enjoy the breathtaking views and how different the landscape is from southern Arizona.

Favorite Movies:


I would not say I have a favorite movie, but my favorite genre is Romantic Comedies.

Favorite Apps:


  • Spotify
  • Weather Channel
  • Reddit
  • Amazon

Perspective on Work:


Being able to connect with individuals not only on a professional level but a personal one is something that I truly enjoy. I love being able to share experiences and stories with my clients. After all we are working closely with one another, why not have a laugh or two along the way? My role as a Financial Advisor is not only to guide you towards the path to financial freedom, but to develop an enduring relationship built on trust and communication for years to come.

Something most people wouldn’t know about you:


I know how to weld and bake amazing cheesecakes.

Favorite Quote:


“Many men go fishing all their lives without knowing that it is not the fish they are after.”- Henry David Thoreau

Anything else you love or that gets you excited?


Concerts, Trying new restaurants.

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Ryan McConeghy

Director of Client Services

Ryan McConeghy

Director of Client Services

Phone: 512-886-4119 

Email: Ryan.McConeghy@AustinPrivateWealth.com



    Underneath the professional background, here’s what makes Ryan tick:



    Influences:


    Too many to list individually, but Jim Rohn is a significant one.

    Perspective on Work:


    Ask yourself the tough questions, be accountable, embrace change, and don’t be afraid to seek out unique and compelling opportunities.

    Favorite Things:


    Quality time with the people I love; Asian food; playing guitar; getting emotionally invested in a song or a book or a movie; the moment inspiration strikes, and I need to learn as much as I possibly can about a thing or topic.

    Favorite Travel:


    Colorado was home for a long time, so I enjoy getting back to visit family whenever possible. Bucket list trips include Japan, Fiji, Australia, and the Maldives.

    Favorite Movies:


    Anything James Bond, Batman, or Indiana Jones.

    Favorite Apps:


    Audible, Apple Music, Apple Podcasts

    Favorite Quotes:


    • “Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care.” – Theodore Roosevelt
    • “Learn how to be happy with what you have while you pursue all that you want.” - Jim Rohn


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    Sarah McNutt

    Chief Information Security Officer, Vice President of Operations and Compliance

    Sarah McNutt

    Chief Information Security Officer

    Vice President of Operations and Compliance

    Phone: 512-886-4114 

    Email:Sarah.McNutt@AustinPrivateWealth.com



    Sarah earned her BS in Applied Computer Science, Information Systems and System Analysis along with a minor in business administration from Illinois State University. During that time she also worked on the engineering team of a Fortune 100 company, where she learned how large corporations function. After graduation, she ran the customer service department and managed a network for a smaller local company, where she was immersed in meeting the needs of clients in a fast-paced industry.

    After spending time out of the workforce raising three children, Sarah was thrilled to have the opportunity to put her customer service, operations and technical skills to use at Austin Private Wealth.


    But underneath the professional background and credentials, here’s what makes Sarah tick:



    Influences:


    Working with a personal financial advisor opened my eyes to the value added to my life and the peace of mind it brought to my family and me. I’ve always loved working with motivated teams to grow and flourish both individually and as a unit. As soon as I met the APW team, I knew I wanted to work with them.

    Perspective on Work:


    I come to work each day for the people I have the privilege to interact with – my team, our amazing clients and the vendors who support us. Every place I spend time is about the people who are there, whether it’s home, work, church, school, etc. I also love that I’m teaching my sons and daughter that it’s possible for a mom to do what fulfills her and meets her own definition of success. I stayed home with my kids for 10 wonderful years, and have been back in the workforce for 6 years now. Like my family, my work is energizing and motivating to me. I want my kids to know that “having it all” is a myth, but it’s possible to have multiple sources of joy in your life and make daily decisions that you don’t regret, whatever that means to you at the time.

    Favorite Things:


    I love to cook, read, relax at home, spend time with friends and travel with my family. I enjoy decorating elaborate cakes for my kids’ birthdays in whatever theme they request. They look very homemade, but it’s a tradition my mom started with me when I was little, and it always reminds me of my childhood.

    Favorite Travel:


    My favorite vacation destination is Disney World because I love the planning and anticipation that goes into a trip, the quality family time once there and the experience of being a cherished guest. I’m fascinated by Disney’s approach to customer experience. I love that their cast members are so engaged that they create magic for guests day after day, knowing that they are empowered to make decisions and bring joy to each guest they interact with.

    Favorite Books and Movies:


    These change on an almost weekly basis. My current favorite serious books are What If? by Steve Robbins and Being Mortal by Atul Gawande. Current favorite light fiction is the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon. My all-time favorite re-readable fiction series is Earth’s Children by Jean M. Auel. I like action movies and good old romantic comedies. I absolutely can not watch horror movies. The anticipation of the next jump-scare is too much for me!

    Favorite Apps:


    • Audible - I have a commute to work and enjoy listening to books, especially after a long day.
    • Allowance Manager - for teaching my children responsible spending habits
    • GroupMe - for keeping in touch with friends and organizing social time

    Something most people wouldn’t know about you:


    A few years ago, my husband introduced me to Dungeons and Dragons, which turned out to be much more fun than I expected. We host a weekly game night and recently I was the Dungeon Master, leading our group through an adventure based on Stranger Things. We had a great time and, no surprise, I loved getting to be in charge!

    Favorite Quote:


    “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.” - Walt Disney

    Anything else you love or that gets you excited?


    One of my very favorite places to be is in a classroom. I love to learn and get excited about taking tests. Required training, conferences, tax seminars? Sign me up!

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    Reagan Stephenson

    Investment Analyst

    Reagan Stephenson

    Investment Analyst

    PHONE: 512.886.4114

    EMAIL: reagan.stephenson@austinprivatewealth.com


    Reagan graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 2022 with a BBA in Finance, a minor in Accounting, and two certificates in Wealth Management and Risk Management. Joining the Austin Private Wealth team in 2022, he has always enjoyed aligning the values and dreams of individuals with their finances. A native of Austin, he is passionate about giving back to the community that has influenced and supported his life.

    Here’s what makes Reagan tick:



    Influences:


    My father and my mother are the biggest influences on my life. My father taught me the importance of “sawing wood” and patience, while my mother showed me how to care for others and treat people with love. I would not be where I am today without them, and it seems every day I learn something new from their infinite wisdom and experience.

    Perspective on Work:


    I have always considered myself to be a math and numbers guy, it always came naturally to me. However, the analysis portion of financial planning is just a part of the entire process. These analyses must be aligned with an individual’s dreams and values, so their financials are working towards what they want to do in life. I could not be more thankful to be doing meaningful work in a profession that relieves people of stress, educates them on personal finance, gives them back more time, and helps them achieve the life they want to live.

    Favorite Things:


    • I love swimming and have been doing so since I was eight years old. Not only does it keep you in shape, but it teaches you discipline, focus, and awareness.
    • I dabble every now and then in poetry, writing and reading. It helps calm me down and get my thoughts on paper, and I learn a thing or two along the way.
    • I love playing board and card games with my friends. Whether it be Presidents, ERS, Catan, or Seven Wonders, if there is a board and card game night, I am trying to be there!

    Favorite Movie:


    Baby Driver – Nothing gets me going like a high-speed chase to the sound of Bellbottoms by The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion. Add in a romantic story, cool cars, rebel characters, and a ripping guitar solo from Queen’s Brighton Rock and I am hooked!

    Favorite Apps:


    • Spotify – I love all kinds of music, and you can frequently catch me listening to it no matter what I am doing. From jazz to classic rock, it helps me focus on what I am doing, and brightens my mood.
    • Chess – I picked up chess in recent history as a hobby. I am not very good, but I am learning by the day, and see the value the game can impart. My goal is to beat my father one day!
    • Discord – A great platform to keep up with your friends over text or voice chat. Many of my friends will frequently meet to catch up and talk about what has been happening in our lives, or to play games.

    Favorite Travel:


    I have fond memories of visiting Ohio with my father to see his family and go fishing on Lake Erie. It was always during Labor Day week, so my teachers were not happy with me missing school, but it was always worth it. As life progressed, I have been unable to go as often, but it is always a treat when I can to see my family and fish, and form lasting memories.

    Anything else you love or that gets you excited?


    I have always been fascinated by human behavior and the human condition; it turns out the world is the way it is today because of people! I am very interested in the young field of behavioral finance and how psychology and money are being blended to understand and picture how and why people treat and view money the way they do. Money is and will be a sensitive subject, but I feel if more people are able to recognize why they have biases or viewpoints regarding money, the conversation can be a lot easier.

    Favorite Quotes:


    • “Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect.” – Mark Twain
    • “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach him how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” – Lao Tzu
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    Alyssa Sternadel

    Implementation Analyst


    Alyssa Sternadel

    Implementation Analyst

    PHONE: 512-886-411 

    EMAIL: Alyssa.sternadel@austinprivatewealth.com

    Alyssa graduated from the University of Texas at Austin McCombs School of Business in 2020 with her master’s in professional accounting. During 2021 she completed the educational, experience and ethical requirements to become a Certified Public Accountant. Alyssa spent a few years servicing large global clients in the public accounting sector and subsequently realized her want to serve smaller, individual clients. Austin Private Wealth was exactly the kind of firm Alyssa was looking for, and she joined the team in March of 2023.

    Here’s what makes Alyssa tick:



    Influences:


    My maternal grandfather played a large role in my pursuit of a career in wealth management. When he was ten years old his father died, and he became the sole provider for his family. Rather than use his hardships as legitimate reasons to be angry at the world, he developed an impeccable work ethic and passion for helping others. His determination enabled him to put himself through college, start a successful business, provide a loving home for his family, and help those in need. He used his hard-earned wealth to help people less fortunate than him, and he had a profoundly positive impact on his community. He was able to do these things, in part, due to the sound financial decisions and investments he made throughout his life. I think people tend to view services such as wealth management as self-serving and catered towards the rich. My grandfather’s story, and the stories of many members of my family, provided me with a different perspective. The purposeful, long-term growth of wealth through investing is life-changing and exciting and provides an avenue to greatly impact the community. It is this accumulation and use of wealth that motivates me to become a great financial advisor.

    Favorite Things:


    As most of my work involves numbers, in my free time I enjoy being creative. My past hobbies include scrapbooking, baking, succulent arranging (sadly, I did not have a green thumb!), painting, and knitting. I can spend hours on Pinterest and in Hobby Lobby! I also love being outdoors. As a kid I spent my Spring Breaks camping and hiking in Big Bend, my Christmases snowmobiling in Yellowstone, and my summers road tripping to National Parks such as Zion, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon. I also love spending time with close friends and family. Some of my best hours have been spent playing backgammon with my mom, fishing with my dad, and thrift shopping with my brother. I cherish and still maintain friendships from elementary school, high school, and college and there are few things that top a weekend at the lake with old friends.

    Perspective on work:


    The financial markets are extremely nuanced and complex, and most people lack the time or know-how needed to make appropriate investment decisions. I have always been interested in business, and throughout college I was drawn towards finance and accounting. These interests combined perfectly with my passion for helping people, my love of planning, and my love of teaching to lead me to pursue a career in wealth management. It is my ultimate goal to become an expert in this field so that I can share this knowledge and be a source of confidence during the financial planning process. If I can help people have more time for their family, friends, jobs and passions by alleviating the burden of financial decision-making, then I will have met my goal.

    Favorite Apps:


    • Calm – I’m a busybody and rely on meditation & mindfulness apps to slow down
    • Pinterest – for my creative side when I need a break from work!
    • Jackpot Party Slots - just like the slots in Las Vegas!
    • Spotify

    Favorite Quote:


    It’s never too late to be what you might have been.

    Anything else you love or that gets you excited?


    I’m a big animal lover. I fostered kittens throughout college and enjoy volunteering at Austin Animal Center, Austin Pets Alive, and the Victoria Riding Therapy Center.

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    Hayley Swaim, CFP®

    Planning Team Lead

    Hayley Swaim, CFP®

    Planning Team Lead

    PHONE: 512.886.4109

    EMAIL: Hayley.swaim@austinprivatewealth.com


    Here’s what makes Hayley tick:



    Influences:


    My family has always been my backbone. They always encouraged me to shoot for the stars, and I felt free to do so because I knew I had them to fall back on. This is why I have been able to accomplish what some would say is a lot for my age, with five internships before graduating college and starting my own student organization in the McCombs School of Business that has been a partner of the new wealth management program. Throughout all of this, my family’s support has always been most important

    Favorite Things:


    I love spending time with loved ones, going to farmer’s markets, sitting in a hammock reading a good book, traveling to see different cultures, my Longhorn football team, playing volleyball, hanging out with my cats Remy and Ricky, re-watching old Disney movies, and playing piano.

    Favorite Books:


    The Energy Bus, Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey, and my current favorite fiction series is Raybearer! I have recently started to love reading, so I’m looking forward to adding more to this list.

    Favorite Apps:


    • Amazon (a love-hate relationship)
    • Sudoku
    • Spotify

    Something most people wouldn’t know about you:


    My volleyball team finished 13th in the nation when I was 16. It was a great time!

    Anything else you love or that gets you excited?


    I love wealth management as a career and I cannot wait to be a CFP®. I have wanted to enter the field since I was a Junior in high school, because I wanted a career where I got to help make a difference in peoples' lives and I found personal finance so interesting. Some would say I’m a nerd getting this excited over personal finance, but if that makes me a nerd then I’m fine with that!

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    Sujatha Theddu

    Senior Implementation Analyst

    Sujatha Theddu

    Senior Implementation Analyst

    Phone: 512-886-4113 

    Email: Sujatha.Theddu@AustinPrivateWealth.com

    Sujatha is a graduate of S V University with a Bachelor of Commerce in Computer applications and Master of Business Administration in Finance.

    She has been working in financial services for the last 15 years and joined the Austin Private Wealth team in 2020. As a Client Service Specialist, she works closely with the advisors and their clients, ensuring that details are coordinated, helping to prepare for client meetings and handling follow-up activities.

    Here’s what makes Sujatha tick:



    Influences:


    My parents always encouraged me to focus on my studies, which inspired me to do well. Working with a talented and motivated team and providing solutions to customers is always a good feeling. That inspires me to go the extra mile in customer service. I enjoy my work every day.

    Favorite Things:


    I love cooking, playing with my son, international travel (planning to visit Europe next year), watching Cricket and movies.

    Favorite Books:


    I was an avid reader of Indian comics during my childhood.

    Favorite Apps:


    Amazon
    Google Maps

    Some things most people wouldn’t know about me:


    I was an NCC (National Cadet Corps) cadet, where I learned Army discipline and leadership. And I volunteered in government events as a cadet. I also grew up in the countryside with a self-sufficient farm.

    Anything else you love or that gets you excited?


    Listening to Indian classical music
    Swimming

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    Georgina Tobchan

    Planning Analyst

    Georgina Tobchan

    Planning Analyst

    Phone: 512-886-4126 

    Email: Georgina.tobchan@austinprivatewealth.com


    With a degree in Business Management from Brigham Young University- Idaho, Georgina began her career in financial services as a broker at Charles Schwab in Austin, Texas. During her time there, she obtained her Series 7 and Series 63 certifications and developed a passion for financial planning.

    Having grown up in poverty, Georgina witnessed many families (including her own) accumulate enormous debt just to meet their basic needs. As a result, she has made it her mission to empower individuals and families to take control of their finances and reach their financial goals.

    Here’s what makes Georgina tick:



    Favorite Quote:


    “It isn't what you have or who you are or where you are or what you are doing that makes you happy or unhappy. It is what you think about it.” ― Dale Carnegie

    Perspective on Work:


    The key to success is hard work and passion.

    Favorite Things:


    I love to read. I know a lot of people think they need to travel to be open-minded but to me I can learn that from reading. Besides reading, I absolutely love visiting museums whether it’s a well-known museum or not I try to visit as many of them as I can.

    Favorite Movie:


    I have a few favorite movies, but nothing beats Ratatouille. I love seeing people going after their dreams even though it seems impossible.

    Favorite Apps:


    • Wordle - Fun game that keeps my mind active
    • Scribd - My go to app to find a new read

    Favorite Travel:


    I have quite a few favorite travel spots. I like Barcelona because of their relaxing lifestyle. I like Paris for their food and their architecture. Lastly, I love the entire country of Italy, every time I go to Europe, I make sure to add a new city in Italy for my stop.

    Favorite Books


    • How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
    • The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
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    Kieu Lê Turk, CFP®

    Partner

    Kieu Lê Turk, CFP®

    Partner

    Phone: 512-886-4114

    Email: Kieu.Le.turk@AustinPrivateWealth.com



    Kieu has always loved numbers, but more than anything she loves creating a safe space for people to express their essential selves, their hopes and their dreams. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner with more than 15 years of experience, she draws on her communications background to ensure that her clients understand their financial situation and the advice she is providing. 

    Kieu is a Houston native, having moved there as a young girl with her family when they emigrated from Vietnam in 1980. She earned her BS at the University of Texas at Austin with a combined major in advertising/marketing and communications.

    Areas of Focus

    • Retirement Planning Strategies
    • Retirement Income Strategies
    • Women's Financial Strategies
    • Tax Planning Strategies


    But underneath the professional background and credentials, here’s what makes Kieu tick:



    Influences:


    I’ve always had this deep desire to help people. While hosting a handful of University of Texas freshmen for the upcoming school semester, I was reminded of my high school days, where I discovered business and community service at the same time. I’ve been pursuing both ever since. I love helping people - perhaps because my family and I were helped by so many people when we escaped communist Vietnam and emigrated to the US in the late 70s. We arrived with just the shirts on our backs - my dad had two “right” flip flops on his feet when we got off the plane. Helping people brings me great joy and I believe Jesus was the ultimate example of loving and caring for others.

    Perspective on Work:


    Money causes people anxiety and it can be hard to navigate, both emotionally or practically. It can be the same with healthcare. It was challenging to figure things out when my dad was diagnosed with cancer nine years ago. We would have been extremely grateful if we’d had an advocate who could explain things to us. I want to be that kind of advocate for my clients. If I can help people make sense of money and their finances and help them achieve a level of confidence in their plans, then I’m doing what I love.

    Favorite Things:


    Relationships bring me the most joy, and I spend most of my time with my own family, my faith family or my work family - really listening to what’s going on in their lives and in their hearts.

    I love bringing people together, to spend quality time and typically to break bread together. I’m a foodie, and on my travels, I love to collect pretty little things for my kitchen, to serve my guests. My charcuterie board is usually arranged with memorable items from my time in France, Peru, Vietnam, Burundi, Italy and Kenya.

    Favorite Travel:


    My recent trip to Africa, where I spent a week in Burundi on a mission trip with my church and really got to know the people, serve them and serve God with them. I got to see the beauty of their spirit in the face of daily challenges. I then spent a second week on safari in Kenya seeing some of the most incredible wildlife on earth in the magnificent savannahs – amazing!

    Favorite Books:


    • The Prodigal God, Tim Keller’s
    • Hamilton - the Musical
    • To Kill a Mockingbird - the book and the movie
    • Shawshank Redemption - the movie

    Favorite Apps:


    • Amazon :)
    • Airbnb
    • Podcasts: Tim Keller, Tim Mackie, Andy Stanley
    • Scrib’d audiobooks

    Something most people wouldn’t know about you:


    I hate HATE chocolate - I know, it’s weird :)

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    Taynia Vakapuna, CFP ®

    Planning Analyst

    Taynia Vakapu, CFP®

    Planning Analyst

    PHONE: 512.886.4128

    EMAIL: Taynia.vakapuna@austinprivatewealth.com


    Taynia’s past includes working in different laboratory settings as well as a hiatus enjoying her time as a boy mom. Prior to joining Austin Private Wealth she worked at a hybrid RIA in Utah upon graduation from the University of Utah. There she learned of the power of the private investment space and real estate, while also creating and leading the financial planning department. She completed the requirements to become a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional in 2022.

    Taynia’s sense of gratitude and desire to serve were instilled at a young age by her parents, who immigrated to the U.S. from islands in the Pacific. Work and hobbies are often intermingled as she loves financial planning and is passionate about self-growth while sharing that with others. Outside of that you can catch her at her boys’ activities, or exploring with them, and spending time with her family.

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    AJ Wagner, CFP®, CRPC®, BFA™

    Partner, Director of Financial Planning

    AJ Wagner, CFP®, CRPC®, BFA

    Partner,

    Director of Financial Planning

    Phone: 512-886-4114 

    Email: AJ.Wagner@AustinPrivateWealth.com



    AJ joined Austin Private Wealth in 2007, a few years after earning his BS in Business Administration from the University of Missouri at Columbia. He’s a consummate people person, able to quickly build connections and develop strong relationships. He understands that money means different things to different people and enjoys helping clients align their financial plans with their goals and values. AJ’s passionate about helping clients get more of what they want out of life by finding the balance between enjoying the present while making responsible plans for the future.

    Areas of Focus

    • Social Security 
    • Retirement Benefits
    • Estate Planning Strategies
    • Domestic Partner Planning
    • Family Finances


    But underneath the professional background and credentials, here’s what makes AJ tick:



    Influences:


    My mom and dad provided a great example of the importance of helping others, and I’ve always been interested in saving money. My wife would tease me about the books I read when we were dating and early in our marriage (see: The Millionaire Next Door, Rich Dad, Poor Dad, Estate Planning to Die For). I was at a crossroads in my career in the mid-2000s, and she gave me the courage and support to relocate and start my practice in Austin. I was lucky enough to meet up with Dan and Raoul and the rest is history…

    Perspective on Work:


    I feel very fortunate to do work that is so meaningful. Helping people accomplish the things that are most important to them is incredibly rewarding, and it’s equally fulfilling knowing that people rely on us for help during their times of need as well.

    Favorite Things:


    I’m definitely a fan of Mizzou and the professional sports teams from Kansas City. I’m also pretty passionate about photography. I try to keep some of my favorite pictures hanging on the walls of my office and my goal is to update them over time with the new places we visit.

    Favorite Travel:


    Road trips with our kids. We have a blast creating our own traditions and seeing new things. I also love my family’s cabin in the Ozarks (“The Farm”). Tons of memories there from my childhood and it’s just a very special place.

    Favorite Movie:


    The Wizard of Oz is my favorite movie. I watched it with my mom when I was growing up and I’ve loved introducing it to my kids.

    Favorite Apps:


    Shazam. I love listening to music and discovering new songs. I’m amazed at its ability to identify music as I’m hearing something for the first time. I’ve also been organizing our travel wish list in Google Maps. I recently found out you can bookmark destinations, attractions, hotels, etc. and I’ve been saving places there to make sure we actually visit them.

    Something most people wouldn’t know about you:


    I was a semifinalist at the Nintendo World Championships in 5th grade.

    Favorite Quote:


    “It’s only a matter of time.” - Dan Kraus and Raoul Celerier

    Anything else you love or that gets you excited?


    Live music, Kansas City (aka real) BBQ, Tex-Mex

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    Kevin Weaver, CFP®

    Partner

    Kevin Weaver, CFP®

    Partner

    Phone: 512-886-4114 

    Email: Kevin.Weaver@austinprivatewealth.com


    After five years in management consulting (at Deloitte) and corporate finance (at IBM), Kevin decided to pursue his dream career as a financial advisor in 2003. Over the subsequent 18 years, he developed a successful solo practice. However, he was drawn to a team-based approach and the ability to serve clients as fiduciary, fee-only financial advisor, which led him to join Austin Private Wealth in 2021.

    Kevin is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM, practitioner, completed the Financial Planning Certificate Program at the University of Texas at Austin, and earned a BA in economics from Trinity University in San Antonio.

    Areas of Focus

    • Retirement Planning 
    • Retirement Income Planning
    • Investments
    • Tax Reduction Strategies
    • Women’s Financial Strategies


    But underneath the professional background and credentials, here’s what makes Kevin tick:



    Influences:


    The close relationship I had with my maternal grandmother was extremely influential in my life. When I was growing up, she lived close enough that I could ride my bike to her house, which I did several times each week. She had inherited some investments and loved to check the value of her stocks in the daily newspaper. Because of her interest in her own investments, she taught me about the stock market. From an early age, I was fascinated by the idea that – through investments – your money could work for you, growing on its own. In part because of her teaching, I saved enough money to make small investments in one stock and two mutual funds when I was in high school. Those investments ended up becoming part of the money Julie and I used for the down payment on our first house.

    Perspective on Work:


    I love a good spreadsheet or Monte Carlo simulation (who doesn’t?!). However, the analytical components of financial planning are just the means to an end. And that end is taking complex financial strategies and explaining them to clients in a way that makes sense and helps them achieve their goals. I’m incredibly thankful to work in a profession I truly enjoy, serving clients I care about deeply.

    Favorite Things:


    I grew up playing sports, and although four knee surgeries have limited my own ability to compete, I’m still a big sports fan… especially of college and NBA basketball and professional tennis. Attending each of the four major / grand slam tennis tournaments in person is on my bucket list. I also love ping-pong, foosball, playing cards and board games, and reading.

    Favorite Travel:


    My fondest childhood travel memories are the road trips my family would take every summer from Texas to Canada (a 30-hour, non-stop drive!) to visit my grandparents, who lived in a small town on the north side of Lake Erie. We’d stay for a couple weeks and go to the beach every day. Similarly, my wife, Julie, and I have established a vacation tradition for our own family. Every year, we take a beach trip to Port Aransas with friends. It’s not exotic, but the drive time is a lot shorter than my childhood road trips to Canada!

    Favorite Movie:


    Inception. I love everything about it… the complex plot, the characters, and the soundtrack by Hans Zimmer. My head says the top keeps spinning, but my heart says it falls.

    Favorite App:


    Apple’s Podcast app. I’m an avid podcast listener and often share interesting episodes with clients, friends, and family members. Some of my favorite shows are a16z, Against the Rules with Michael Lewis, EconTalk, Freakonomics Radio, People I (Mostly) Admire, and NPR Planet Money.

    Something most people wouldn't know about you:


    I was born in Canada and have dual citizenship. However, my family moved to Texas when I was four years old, and I’ve been a proud Texan ever since!

    Favorite Quote:


  • “The stock market is designed to transfer money from the active to the patient.” – Warren Buffett
  • “You make most of your money in a bear market, you just don’t realize it at the time.” – Shelby Cullom Davis
  • “Be curious, not judgmental.” – Walt Whitman (and Ted Lasso)
  • Anything else you love or gets you motivated and excited?


    When not helping clients achieve their financial goals, I love spending time with Julie and our three children (Emma, Kyle, and Connor). I’m also a sucker for pizza, cheeseburgers and chocolate milkshakes, and superhero movies.

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    Wanda Wright

    HR and Operations Manager

    Wanda Wright

    HR and Operations Manager

    Phone: 512-886-4124 

    Email:wanda.wright@AustinPrivateWealth.com


    Wanda joined the Austin Private Wealth team in 2021, as our Human Resources Operations Coordinator. Prior to Austin Private Wealth, Wanda was the HR Manager for a motor coach transportation company in Michigan. Wanda believes that the greatest resource at a company will always be the human resource.. 


    Here’s what makes Wanda tick:



    Influences:


    My grandfather, Louis Wright Sr., was the wisest man I have ever known. He had the ability to discern and navigate life in a regal yet commanding authority. He left a legacy of excellence that I try to live up to daily

    Perspective on Work:


    Never let anyone question your commitment to the work you committed to do.

    Favorite Things:


    Music! I consider myself a music aficionado who likes to search for music that is off the beaten path. I love live shows and hope to one day learn to play the guitar.

    Favorite Travel:


    I would like to go back to Brazil one day and hope to travel to Africa and Dubai soon. As far as the US, New York and New Orleans.

    Favorite Quote:


    “Because I’ve been blessed, I will be a blessing” and “Be on your own side, don’t ask anyone else to be there if you are not” ~Maya Angelou~

    Favorite Movie:


    Finding Forrester

    Favorite Apps:


    • Spotify
    • Final Draft

    Something most people would not know about you:


    I write screenplays and I also try to read the Bible once a year.

    Anything else you love or that gets you excited?


    Going to church, hanging out with my family and friends, reading a great book, encouraging and mentoring youth to become the greatest version of themselves, and I enjoy almost all sports and have recently started learning more about soccer.