Our Team
Helping People and Companies Thrive Through Empowered Financial Solutions
Tom, AIF®, is a Founding Partner and the Chief Executive Officer of Shepherd Financial. Prior to founding Shepherd Financial in 2015, Tom spent 11 years with Capital Analysts of the Midwest, where he and Steve Wylam formed the 401(k) Team @ CAMI.
Tom and his wife, Erin, currently reside in Fishers, Indiana, with their daughters, Addison and Audrey.
What is your favorite sports team?
It’s Purdue basketball. I’ve been hooked since the age of nine – I attended a basketball camp at Purdue and won the Mr. Hustle award.
What is your favorite food, and where is the best place to get it?
I love the Smash Burger at Hampton Social in Nashville, Tennessee.
Would you rather go 30 days without your phone or your entire life without dessert?
This is not even close. I’m not huge on sweets, and I am addicted to my phone.
What is your favorite card game?
I love playing Euchre with my college roommates.
Have you ever won anything?
I won the opportunity to take a guest with me to take batting practice and play catch at Wrigley Field. Growing up a huge Cubs fan and being able to experience it with my dad was an absolute dream come true.
2002 – Bachelor of Science: Consumer Financial Counseling and Planning, Purdue University
2007 – Accredited Investment Fiduciary® designation, Fi360 (now Broadridge)
Top 401 Retirement Advisor (2018, 2019, 2020)
Financial Times
The awards listed are not indicative of future performance. Working with an advisor or wealth manager who has received an award is no guarantee of future investment success. For complete disclosure information, please click here.
Drew, CFP®, C(k)P®, NQPATM, is a Founding Partner and the Chief Growth Officer of Shepherd Financial. Prior to founding Shepherd Financial in 2015, Drew provided oversight to the Financial Services division of Shepherd Insurance.
Drew and his wife, Leigh, currently reside in Columbus, Indiana, with their daughter, Lexi.
How do you stay active?
I try to start each day with some form of cardio, whether that is in the gym on the elliptical or treadmill or being outside in the neighborhood when the weather allows. This is so important for me to have a good day! I also enjoy playing golf and tennis, biking, walking the nature trails in the hills of Brown County, and working in my yard.
Are you a morning or evening person?
Definitely morning. I enjoy getting up early to start my workout, watch the sun come up, drink a cup of coffee, and plan my day before all the craziness begins. I find I am most productive in the first part of the day, so I try to get the most difficult tasks completed early.
Do you have a favorite sports team or athlete?
My favorite team is the St. Louis Cardinals. Baseball was my favorite sport growing up, and the Cardinals were the team I would always take time to watch. Here at Shepherd, we have several team members who are baseball fans, so we have a fun, competitive spirit throughout the season. My favorite athlete is Peyton Manning. As a Colts fan, I have great memories of his time in Indy. I always appreciated the way he carried himself, as well as his involvement and time with the Indianapolis community. Today, I enjoy watching Peyton on TV, whether at a celebrity golf match, ESPN event, or TV commercial.
Would you prefer a beach house or mountain cabin?
My family enjoys spending time at our condo in Sarasota, Florida. Whether we are walking the beach, enjoying nature trails in the park, kayaking through the mangroves, swimming, or boating, the beach is a place to relax and create family memories.
What is your favorite season?
I enjoy fall the most because of the cool mornings and evenings paired with dry sunny days. And, of course, the changing colors of leaves! Taking an evening boat ride around the lake is a great way to end the day, and I think fall golf is the best.
1997 – Bachelor of Science: Accounting, Indiana University Kelley School of Business
2008 – CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification, College for Financial Planning
2013 – Certified 401k Professional® designation, The Retirement Advisor University
2023 – Nonqualified Plan Advisor™ credential, National Association of Plan Advisors
Top 401 Retirement Advisor (2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020)
Financial Times
The awards listed are not indicative of future performance. Working with an advisor or wealth manager who has received an award is no guarantee of future investment success. For complete disclosure information, please click here.
Steve, CFP®, is a Founding Partner and the Chief Operating Officer of Shepherd Financial. Prior to founding Shepherd Financial in 2015, Steve spent 27 years with Capital Analysts of the Midwest, where he and Tom Mayer formed the 401(k) Team @ CAMI.
Steve and his wife, Jacqui, currently reside in Fishers, Indiana, and have two daughters, Camryn and McKenna.
If you could golf in any foursome, who would you pick?
I play a lot of golf with family and close friends; since I can play with them most any time, I will exclude them from this list. I guess I would have to choose a couple professional golfers – Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods. Then to round out the group, I would really like to play one more round with my father, Bill Wylam. Before he passed in 2008, we played a couple of times at Pebble Beach on his birthday; it would be really special to recreate that experience.
What is your favorite season?
Fall is the best – I love the cool brisk mornings and the changing of colors.
What is your favorite food, and where is the best place to get it?
I love a good pizza. You can’t go wrong with the Sweet Pig Hawaiian pizza at Lahaina Pizza Company on Front Street in Maui.
Would you prefer a beach house or mountain cabin?
I would pick a mountain house in Aspen – there’s skiing in the winter and golfing and fly fishing in the summer.
Which cheesy song from your childhood do you still love?
I’m not sure if I still know all the words, but I do know one word 33 times. Whenever ‘Thunderstruck’ by AC/DC comes on the radio, the volume always goes way up.
1987 – Bachelor of Science: Consumer Financial Counseling and Planning, Purdue University
1993 – CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification, College for Financial Planning
2015 – Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor® credential, National Association of Plan Advisors
Top 401 Retirement Advisor (2017, 2018, 2019, 2020)
Financial Times
The awards listed are not indicative of future performance. Working with an advisor or wealth manager who has received an award is no guarantee of future investment success. For complete disclosure information, please click here.
Leah, QKA®, QPA, CPC, is an Executive Partner and the President of Retirement Plans for Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2015, Leah worked as a retirement plan designer and plan consultant.
Leah and her husband, Aaron, currently reside in Zionsville, Indiana, with their children, Cameron and Claire.
What is your favorite food, and where is the best place to get it?
I love pizza and wings from Ale Emporium!
Who or what makes you laugh the most?
My sister, Megan. We have a lifetime of inside jokes, and it doesn’t take much to make us start laughing hysterically until we can’t breathe anymore.
If you could spend 12 hours with anyone, who would it be? What would you do?
I would spend time with my husband. He is my best friend! We would grab coffee and go for a long hike. Quality time with the people I love is my favorite way to spend my time.
Where do you most want to visit in the world?
I would love to go to my birthplace, South Korea.
What is something about you that other people do not know at first?
I have a huge passion for green initiatives. I am always looking for ways to reduce my carbon footprint, including recently switching to an electric car – the Ford Mustang Mach-E.
2007 – Bachelor of Science: Mathematics, University of Notre Dame
2009 – Qualified 401(k) Administrator® credential, American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries Association
2010 – Qualified Pension Administrator credential, American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries Association
2011 – Certified Pension Consultant credential, American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries Association
Top Retirement Plan Advisor Under 40 (2022)
NAPA
The 2024 Annual RIA Intel Retirement Plan Advisor of the Year Award (June 5, 2024)
RIA Intel
The awards listed are not indicative of future performance. Working with an advisor or wealth manager who has received an award is no guarantee of future investment success. For complete disclosure information, please click here.
Michael, CFP®, AIF®, CFS®, CAS®, CISTM, CESTM, CTSTM, AAMS®, AWMATM, MBA, is an Executive Partner and the President of Wealth Management at Shepherd Financial. After building a successful wealth management practice, he partnered with Logan Lavelle Hunt in 2008. Logan Lavelle Hunt Wealth Management merged with Shepherd Financial in 2018.
Michael and his wife, Stacy, currently reside in Sellersburg, Indiana, with their daughter, Kylie, and twin sons, Blake and Chase.
Are you a morning or evening person?
I am definitely a morning person! I like to be up by 5:00 before everyone else so I can work out, watch the news, and get a jump start on my day.
If you could time travel to any era, which would you choose?
I would travel 100 years into the future. I am curious about what our world and economic landscape will look like, how people and future family members will live, new technology, advancements in medicine, and if the Indianapolis Colts will ever win another Super Bowl.
If you could have any superpower, which would you choose?
As much as I think reading minds would be a useful superpower, I would like to be able to fly anywhere in the world without the hassle of traffic, parking, or airport delays.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
Driving in the slow lane is typically near the top of my list, but my biggest pet peeves are rudeness and disrespect.
What is something you must have to get through the day?
Exercise! I haven’t missed a single day since January 5, 2013. It’s a healthy habit that sets the tone for my entire day.
1998 – Bachelor of Arts: Business, Hanover College
2005 – Master of Business Administration, Webster University
2008 – Accredited Asset Management SpecialistSM designation, College for Financial Planning
2009 – Accredited Wealth Management AdvisorTM designation, College for Financial Planning
2012 – Executive Certificate: Financial Planning, Bellarmine University
2013 – Certified Income SpecialistTM designation, Institute of Business & Finance
2013 – CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification, College for Financial Planning
2014 – Certified Fund Specialist® designation, Institute of Business & Finance
2015 – Accredited Investment Fiduciary® designation, Fi360 (now Broadridge)
2016 – Certified Annuity Specialist® designation, Institute of Business & Finance
2017 – Certified Estate and Trust SpecialistTM designation, Institute of Business & Finance
2018 – Certified Tax SpecialistTM designation, Institute of Business & Finance
2022 – Master of Science: Financial Services, Institute of Business & Finance
20 People to Know in Wealth Management and Financial Planning (2022)
Louisville Business First
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The recognition listed is not indicative of future performance. Working with an advisor or wealth manager who has received an award or recognition is no guarantee of future investment success.
Alex, CPFA®, AIF®, is an Executive Partner and the President of Institutional Advising at Shepherd Financial. He merged his retirement plan practice with Shepherd Financial in 2019.
Alex and his wife, Mallory, currently reside in Carmel, Indiana, with their two children.
What is your least favorite chore?
Without a doubt, grocery shopping in the store. Curbside is most definitely the way to go!
What is your biggest pet peeve?
It drives me crazy when people are late or unprepared.
What is your favorite season?
It has to be fall. I think Goldilocks said it best – not too hot, not too cold, and there’s football!
If you could golf in any foursome, who would you pick?
I would pick some of my favorites – Steph Curry, Jason Bateman, and Peyton Manning.
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream, and where is the best place to get it?
I am a cookies and cream connoisseur. I try it everywhere I go, but the best I have ever had is from Jiffy Treat in Ellettsville, Indiana.
2012 – Bachelor of Science: Accounting and Finance, Marian University
2015 – Accredited Investment Fiduciary® designation, Fi360 (now Broadridge)
2017 – Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor® designation, National Association of Plan Advisors
2021 – Environmental, Social, and Governance 401(k) certificate, National Association of Plan Advisors
Top Retirement Plan Advisor Under 40 (2017, 2021, 2022, 2023)
NAPA
The awards listed are not indicative of future performance. Working with an advisor or wealth manager who has received an award is no guarantee of future investment success. For complete disclosure information, please click here.
John is a Partner and Senior Wealth Advisor at Shepherd Financial. Prior to merging his practice with Shepherd Financial in 2017, John spent 45 years in financial services and casualty insurance.
John and his wife, Wilma, currently reside in Indianapolis, Indiana. They have four grown children: Sarah, Ben, Anna, and Rebecca.
What is your favorite sport?
Golf is my favorite, and I love to play with my grandson.
If you could golf in any foursome, who would you pick?
I would choose from several generations: Tom Watson, Tiger Woods, and Jordan Spieth.
What is your favorite book?
The Unlikely Spy by Daniel Silva
What is your favorite card game?
I love to play bridge!
Are you a morning or evening person?
Mornings are my best time.
David, AIF®, is the Director of Investment Management at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2015, David spent more than 20 years in the financial services industry.
David and his wife, Heather, currently reside in Fishers, Indiana, and have three mostly-grown sons: Jonathan, Samuel, and Andrew.
If money was not a factor, how would you live your life?
I would live with more grace than I seem capable of now – I’d be quicker to help, quicker to forgive, and act in greater service of others.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I would be by a lake, a stream, or an ocean where I would only hear natural sounds, but it would be close enough to town to be part of a small community and a regular at a diner or coffee shop.
If you could time travel to any era, which would you choose?
I’d love to go to the second Industrial Revolution to see so many technologies and products develop!
Would you rather go 30 days without your phone or your entire life without dessert?
I will never give up dessert. Never.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
Answering getting to know you questions.
1995 – Bachelor of Science: Consumer Financial Counseling and Planning, Purdue University
2010 – Accredited Investment Fiduciary® designation, Fi360 (now Broadridge)
Dena, M.S. Ed, is Director of Training and Talent at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2024, Dena was the Director of Learning and Development at ProTrans.
Dena and her husband, Nick, currently reside in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Are you a morning or an evening person?
I am very much a morning person. I usually do a 6 AM workout and am most productive at knocking things off my to-do list before lunch. Once the evening hits, I’m usually lounging on the couch and in bed by 9:30 PM!
What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream, and where’s the best place to get it?
I love Lemoreo from Square Scoop in the Fountain Square neighborhood of Indianapolis. It’s a lemon and Oreo cookie flavor combination, and it just works. If you know, you know.
What’s your favorite dad joke?
Why aren’t koalas considered bears? They don’t have the koalifications!
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
I’d be fluent in every language. I love traveling, and exploring new places would be much easier—and in some cases, less daunting—without the language barrier. Plus, after struggling with Spanish for years, it would be a dream to just know it—and every other language, too!
Would you rather go 30 days without your phone or your entire life without dessert?
I’d go 30 days without my phone. I think we’re all a bit too connected sometimes, and I love the idea of challenging myself to go back to the “before” times for a while. I enjoy taking phone-free days where I leave my phone at home; it forces me to use my brain to remember things instead of looking them up and I can really focus on the people I’m with instead of worrying about social media or the latest news. Plus, dessert is great, so giving that up would be a bit sad.
2010 – Bachelor of Arts: Psychology, Purdue University
2014 – Master of Science: MS, Education, Indiana University
2014 – Master of Education: MEd, Indiana University
Nick, CRPS®, is the Director of Innovation and Client Experience at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2015, Nick began his career with a Registered Investment Advisory firm in California.
Nick and his daughters, Gwen and Margo, currently reside in Noblesville, Indiana, with their dog, Finn.
If you could golf in any foursome, who would you pick?
I would love to play with Justin Thomas, Tiger Woods, and Rory McIlroy.
Would you prefer a beach house or mountain cabin?
My family is definitely going beachside!
Do you prefer coffee or tea?
Coffee – I’ll go with the Triple Grande Blond Vanilla Latte.
What is your favorite food, and where is the best place to get it?
You have to try the Shrimp Po Boy on Lobster Roll Style Bread at the 167 Raw Oyster Bar in Charleston, South Carolina.
What is your favorite board game?
I love Codenames!
2013 – Certificate in Management: Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Purdue University
2013 – Bachelor of Science: Consumer Financial Counseling and Planning, Purdue University
2020 – Chartered Retirement Plans SpecialistSM designation, College for Financial Planning
Jessica is an Accounting & Compliance Coordinator at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2022, Jessica owned a children’s clothing boutique for 10 years.
Jessica and her husband, Dan, currently reside in McCordsville, Indiana, and have two daughters, DeAnna and Josephine.
If money was not a factor, how would you live your life?
I would travel around the world. I love traveling to new places, and I rarely go to a country twice, even if I have fallen in love with that location.
What is your least favorite chore?
I hate cleaning the bathroom. It is the one area of the house that I love to pass off to my kids or husband.
Would you rather go 30 days without your phone or your entire life without dessert?
Dessert. I would live without sweets as long as I have salty popcorn. My phone, on the other hand, is how I communicate with everyone.
Would you prefer a beach house or mountain cabin?
Beach house, 100%. I love warm weather and beaches. Most of my vacations consist of going to the beach or going on a cruise.
Which cheesy song from your childhood do you still love?
It’s not a young childhood song, but I love ‘Barbie Girl.’ I really enjoy embarrassing my kids while singing it.
2007 – Bachelor of Science: Tourism Management, Indiana University
Curtis is a Financial Solutions Consultant at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2022, Curtis worked as an occupational therapist.
Curtis and his wife, Rachel, currently reside in Plainfield, Indiana, and have a daughter, Charlie, and son, Cal.
Which life lesson has had the greatest impact on you?
Every life lesson that has had the greatest impact on me has had a common message: when life takes you down a path you didn’t expect or plan – whether good or bad – you have to find clarity in what matters most to you in your life. I truly believe identifying those factors and staying true to them builds a foundation for a successful and meaningful life.
What is something you must have to get through the day?
Music is a must! Whether it helps me relax after a stressful day, motivates me and helps me focus when I’m feeling off, or it tells a story I can relate to in some way, music has been something I have enjoyed for as long as I can remember. Music leads me to reflect on my life events and allows me to connect with the things and people that mean the most to me, even when they may not be around.
If you could have any superpower, which would you choose?
I’d have to go with teleporting. Think about all the time we spend traveling to work, running errands, going places on the weekends, or heading out on vacation. Time is of great value, and we can’t get it back. I think teleporting would help me have more time to do the things I enjoy with the people I love. Plus, the cherry on top is all the money you’d save!
What are you favorite sport and sports team?
My favorite sport is basketball, and I love the UNC Tar Heels.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I would want a decent amount of land and live in a house somewhere in or near the mountains, but I would also want to be relatively close to an urban area. That way, I would be able to enjoy the best of both worlds – a quite area to live and explore the great outdoors while also being able to enjoy the city life and its fun social events.
2013 – Bachelor of Science: Exercise Science, Sports Management, Marian University
2018 – Doctor of Occupational Therapy, University of Indianapolis
1983 – Bachelor of Arts: Psychology & Communication, The Ohio State University
Tom is a Wealth Advisor at Shepherd Financial. He joined the Shepherd Financial team in 2022.
Tom currently lives in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Do you have a favorite sports team or athlete?
My favorite sport – by a long shot – is football; to no surprise, my favorite team is the Colts. I have season tickets and will be enjoying my second full year of going to every Colts home game. My favorite athlete is the best running back in the NFL – Jonathan Taylor.
If you could spend 12 hours with anyone, who would it be, and what would you do?
I would choose to spend it with my grandpa – I was named after him, and he passed away when I was in middle school. Some of my fondest memories growing up were listening to the wild stories he used to tell my brother and me. I would do anything to be able to spend time with him so he could see how far I’ve come in life.
If money was not a factor, how would you live your life?
I wouldn’t live in Indiana – I’d have a beach house, probably in Florida. To keep me busy, I would become a day trader and do that in the morning and early afternoon. In the evenings, I would have a bartending job at a local bar. I would also own at least two dogs.
Which life lesson has had the greatest impact on you?
I have realized that no one is truly perfect. As you grow up, you view adults as people that have everything figured out. But as you get older and gain more life experience, you begin to understand that no one is perfect, everyone has baggage, and we’re all humans at the end of the day. Everyone deserves a little bit of grace and respect.
Do you prefer coffee or tea?
Coffee > tea. Iced > hot. Black > add ins.
2019 – Bachelor of Arts: Economics, DePauw University
Erin, CFP®, CDFSTM, CESTM, CWS®, is a Senior Wealth Advisor at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2021, Erin spent 10 years at Charles Schwab.
Erin and her husband, Gregg, currently reside in Fishers, Indiana, with their daughters, Madelyn and Elaina.
Would you rather go 30 days without your phone or your entire life without dessert?
I have been making an effort to be more present and in the moment, so I would give up my phone for a month. I wish I could do it for about 23 hours out of the day as it is. Plus, who really wants to give up dessert? Life is about living!
What is your favorite season?
I absolutely love fall! There is just something about putting on a sweatshirt, sitting around a fire, carving pumpkins, and eating caramel apples that you can’t beat.
If you could have any superpower, which would you choose?
I think being able to time travel would be great, but I only want to go back in time. I would visit family members that are no longer with us, visit eras before my time, and see beautiful landscapes before they got developed. I would not want to visit the future – I’d rather leave it up to destiny than knowing what it is and feeling the need to change it.
What is your least favorite chore?
I loathe laundry. It’s not so much the washing, drying, or folding. It’s having to put it away. I put it off as long as possible, which only makes the problem worse! I guess I should work on that…
What are your favorite childhood cartoons?
I didn’t watch that many cartoons as a kid, but I did stay up way too late to watch Nick at Nite. I binge watched Golden Girls, The Wonder Years, and Happy Days.
2011 – Bachelor of Science: Consumer Financial Counseling and Planning, Purdue University
2016 – CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification, College for Financial Planning
2020 – Certified Wealth Strategist® certification, Cannon Financial Institute
2023 – Certified Divorce Financial SpecialistTM designation, Institute of Business and Finance
2023 – Certified Estate and Trust SpecialistTM designation, Institute of Business and Finance
Mackenzie is the Operations Support Specialist at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2022, Mackenzie was a Senior Administrative Assistant at OneAmerica.
Mackenzie and her husband, Jordan, currently reside in Carmel, Indiana with their two dogs, Stella & Honey.
What’s your favorite season and why?
Definitely Fall! Every year I look forward to the crisp, cool weather and seeing the leaves change. My husband and I got married Fall of 2021 so this time of year is even more special to me.
Would you rather go 30 days without your phone or your entire life without dessert?
I would absolutely rather go 30 days without my phone. I have the biggest sweet tooth and would not make it a week without some type of sweet treat.
Coffee or tea? How do you take it?
Coffee and I must have at least a little creamer in it. My usual, go-to coffee order is a vanilla oat milk latte.
What’s the most spontaneous thing you’ve done in your life?
My husband and I decided to get a puppy 2 weeks before our wedding. I’m someone who likes to take days if not weeks to thoroughly think through any big decision, but when my husband showed me the picture of our sweet, soon-to-be puppy, I said “yes” in a matter of just an hour. Our little family has felt complete (and more chaotic) ever since we got her.
How do you spend your free time?
Any free time I have, I enjoy spending with my husband and our dogs. My husband and I enjoy being active whether that means going on a bike ride, working out at the gym, or taking our dogs for a walk. We also love to binge watch whatever TV show we are currently watching. On the weekends, we love getting coffee, shopping, and spending time with our families.
2018 – Bachelor of Science: Psychology, University of Southern Indiana
Dave is a Retirement Consultant at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2023, Dave was a Divisional Wholesaler Manager at American Funds.
Dave and his wife, Susie, currently reside in Fishers, Indiana.
What’s your favorite season and why?
Definitely fall. Cool crisp mornings, comfortable during the day and back to cool in evenings – what is not to like?!
Are you a morning or an evening person?
I have always been a morning person. I like to get as much as I can done before noon.
Would you rather live without TV or without music?
I could live without TV but not music. My wife and I recently got rid of cable TV, and I don’t miss it. On most Saturday mornings, I listen to WXTR’s morning flashback. They pick a year and play the best songs from that year. It is fantastic and brings back a lot of memories.
What is your favorite food and where’s the best place to get it (no limits)?
My favorite meal is grilled steak, scratch made mashed potatoes, and blanched asparagus. I love to cook, so I make it myself!
What’s your favorite sport / sports team – professional, college? If you’ve got one, who’s your favorite athlete?
The St. Louis Cardinals baseball team. Albert Pujols and Yadier Molina are two of my favorite players.
1989 – Bachelor of Science: Finance, Gies College of Business – University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Carson is an Investment Analyst at Shepherd Financial. He joined the Shepherd Financial team in 2022.
Carson currently resides in Carmel, Indiana.
If money was not a factor, how would you live your life?
I would move to Europe and become a train conductor.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I visited Ireland with my family several years ago and just loved the countryside.
If you were granted $1 million tomorrow and told you must buy something fun for yourself, what would you purchase?
I would love to have partial ownership in an F1 or any sports team!
Would you rather take a trip to outer space or the depths of the ocean?
I would take any opportunity to experience space travel over going in the ocean.
What is your favorite board game?
I love playing Settlers of Catan with my family and friends!
2022 – Bachelor of Science: Consumer Financial Counseling and Planning, Purdue University
George, CFP®, AIF®, is a Senior Wealth Advisor at Shepherd Financial. He merged his retirement plan practice with Shepherd Financial in 2019.
George and his wife, Melanie, currently reside in Indianapolis, Indiana, and have two children, Allison and Samuel.
Which life lesson has had the greatest impact on you?
The more generous you are, the more good fortune seems to come your way.
Which animal would be most terrifying to you if it could speak?
It is terrifying on its own, but a poisonous snake would really scare me if it could talk because of the probability of it sneaking up on me.
What is your favorite season?
I love the summer, because I get to enjoy the fruits of my labor – our landscaping and flowers.
Would you prefer a beach house or mountain cabin?
Oh, for sure a mountain cabin in the Smokey Mountains! Every day, the view changes because of the cloud formations hovering over the peaks.
If you were granted one million dollars and told to buy something fun for yourself, what would you purchase?
I would hire a captain and boat to sail around the Virgin Islands until the money ran out.
1978 – Bachelor of Arts: Liberal Arts, Wabash College
1990 – CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification, College for Financial Planning
Accredited Investment Fiduciary® designation, Fi360 (now Broadridge)
Top 401 Retirement Advisor (2016, 2018, 2019)
Financial Times
The awards listed are not indicative of future performance. Working with an advisor or wealth manager who has received an award is no guarantee of future investment success. For complete disclosure information, please click here.
Mary is a Client Solutions Coordinator at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2023, Mary was a Marketing Coordinator at Strategic Wealth Designers.
Mary and her husband, Tretter, currently reside in Carmel, Indiana.
If money was not a factor, how would you live your life?
I would build my dream home in the country, plant a huge garden, vineyard, tree farm, and of course, have lots of pets and chickens.
Which animal would be the most terrifying if it could speak? Why?
I think a cat would be terrifying if it could speak. I just know my cat would be very sarcastic and most likely hurt my feelings.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
I would choose invisibility, so I can master the Irish Goodbye.
What’s your favorite board game or card game, and who do you play it with?
I love to play Euchre with my family and friends. It gets very competitive around the holidays!
What’s your favorite season and why?
My favorite seasons are fall and winter. The holidays are my favorite time of year, and I love getting to spend time with loved ones.
2020 – Bachelor of Science: Communication Studies and Marketing, University of Southern Indiana
Dan, AIF®, CRPS®, is a Retirement Plan Advisor at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2023, Dan was a Retirement Plan Consultant at Brunette & Associates LLC.
Beach house or mountain cabin?
I can’t decide…I enjoy being on the beach and love everything about it, but I also love the mountains and being active outdoors no matter the season. I especially love snow skiing in the winter.
If you were granted $1 million tomorrow and were told you must buy something “fun” for yourself, what would you purchase?
I would buy a new Mastercraft Wakeboard/Wakesurf boat, but I would still need two people to go out on the lake with…
What is your least favorite chore – in or outside the household?
I really don’t enjoy mowing the lawn, however, I do like the way it looks when I get done.
What is your favorite board game or card game, and who do you play with?
I love to play cribbage. It has always been a game that my family has played together, and it always got a little too competitive between me and my two brothers.
Have you ever won something, and what was it?
I’ll always remember when my raffle ticket number was called. My dad and I were at a bait and tackle store one weekend when I was 5 years old, and I won a new fishing rod and some tackle – I was so happy!
1998 – Bachelor of Science: Finance/Personal Financial Planning, Northern Michigan University
2009 – Chartered Retirement Plans SpecialistSM designation, College for Financial Planning
2017 – Accredited Investment Fiduciary® designation, Fi360 (now Broadridge)
Joe is a Client Relationship Consultant at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2020, Joe spent 20 years in the retirement services industry.
Joe and his wife, Julie, currently reside in Carmel, Indiana, with their mostly-grown sons, Ben and Luke.
What is your favorite sports team?
I prefer college sports to the professional leagues in most cases, and my favorite team is the Indiana Hoosiers. I am a diehard IU basketball fan, but I am also a big fan of IU track and field.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Colorado! I love the mountains and everything they offer – hiking, exploring, and mountain biking in the spring, summer, and fall, then downhill skiing in the winter months.
What are your favorite card games?
Euchre and poker – you can’t be a Hoosier and not like Euchre! We have Euchre tournaments at every big family gathering around each of the holidays, and I try to get together with local college friends for a poker game every now and then.
What is your least favorite chore?
I hate cleaning out the rain gutters on the house. We have big trees, so there are many leaves. Spring and fall are the worst.
Are you a morning or evening person?
I’m really more of an evening person, because I am a night owl at heart. But some days, I love getting up extra early to get the day started with a short morning run.
1993 – Bachelor of Science: Public Administration, Indiana University
Noel, QKA®, CEBS®, is a Client Relationship Consultant at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2019, Noel spent 25 years in the financial services industry
Noel and his wife, Mary, currently reside in Fishers, Indiana, and have a daughter, Lizzy, and son, Paul.
Do you have a favorite sports team or athlete?
Growing up in Southwest Ohio, it could only be the Cincinnati Reds. As a kid, my favorite player was Johnny Bench. Today, it would definitely be Joey Votto.
Which animal would be the most terrifying if it could speak?
Definitely a snake! I hate snakes. And frankly, the last time a snake spoke, it didn’t end too well for humans.
What is your favorite card game?
Euchre – we normally have about 20 people play in a tournament at our big family Christmas party. The winners get to put their names on a trophy.
Would you prefer a beach house or mountain cabin?
Oh, I’d happily take a beach house in the Caribbean.
What is your favorite ice cream?
It’s double chocolate chip from Graeter’s.
1992 – Bachelor of Science: Business Management, Finance, Brigham Young University
2002 – Certified Employee Benefit Specialist designation, International Society of Employee Benefits Specialists
2005 – Qualified 401(k) Administrator credential, American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries Association
2011 – Qualified Plan Financial Consultant credential, National Association of Plan Advisors
2011 – Master of Business Administration, Human Resources, Indiana Wesleyan University
Cassaundra is a Client Solutions Coordinator at Shepherd Financial. Cassaundra joined Shepherd Financial in 2018 as part of the Logan Lavelle Hunt Wealth Management division merger.
Cassaundra and her husband, Brian, currently reside in Columbus, Indiana, with her son, Caleb.
If you could spend 12 hours with anyone, who would it be? What would you do?
It would definitely be my mom. She passed away 20 years ago and never got to meet the love of my life or my son. She was my biggest fan, and I miss her greatly. We would spend those 12 hours on the beach (her favorite place), just talking and sharing about the past 20 years.
Would you rather go 30 days without your phone or your entire life without dessert?
Oh, it’s no question – I’d rather give up my phone. I am a sweets lover! Chocolate and peanut butter together is my favorite. I’m tired of being tied to my cell phone; I miss when you didn’t feel the need to check email or social media.
Have you ever won anything?
In 2006, I was picked through a random drawing to be on the Martha Stewart Show. After competing in a couple of silly events and beating out two other ladies, I won a brand new Chevy Suburban!
Which life lesson has had the greatest impact on you?
I learned a great lesson when I was 27. My mother passed away, and a couple of months later, I was diagnosed with a brain tumor. I was blessed that it wasn’t cancerous. Going through those two major life events taught me to appreciate life and my loved ones so much more – we are not guaranteed tomorrow.
If money was not a factor, how would you live your life?
I would spend my time doing charity work. I have always wanted to do a missions trip – it’s at the top of my bucket list.
Jeff is a Senior Wealth Advisor at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2015, Jeff spent eight years working in private and retail banking.
Jeff and his wife, Angie, currently reside in Fortville, Indiana, with their son, Ethan, and daughter, Olivia.
What is something you must have to get through the day?
Coffee and time with my family. Days feel a little empty if I don’t get the opportunity to say goodbye to my wife and kids before we all start running in different directions or goodnight before my head hits the pillow.
What is your favorite season?
Summer! I am very much a sunshine, warm air, and hanging outside type of person. If Indiana ever decided to stop dropping snow and never go below about 60 degrees again, it would be just fine by me.
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream, and where is the best place to get it?
It has to be Raspberry Rumble at Libby’s Ice Cream in downtown Fortville. It’s the best ever. Period. Full stop.
Are you a morning or evening person?
I am a night owl, always. No talkee before coffee.
Would you rather go 30 days without your phone or your entire life without dessert?
I would happily embrace 30 days without my phone!
2016 – Bachelor of Science: Applied Sciences, Indiana University
Luke, QKA®, QPA is a Client Relationship Consultant at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2023, Luke spent 22 years in the retirement services industry.
Luke and his wife, Stacy, currently reside in Zionsville, Indiana, with their daughters, Katherine and Emma.
What’s your favorite sport / sports team – professional, college?
I am a big college basketball and football fan. My favorite school is Indiana University. I graduated from IU and have spent many Saturdays at football tailgates and taking cold, winter walks into Assembly Hall for basketball games. My kids will tell you that if I have the remote, the TV will be on a college sporting event.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
I would live in a house on a cliff overlooking the ocean on Torrey Pines golf course. Breathtaking views, great weather all year round, and golf out my backdoor.
What’s your favorite season and why?
My favorite season is fall. The weather starts to cool down allowing me for a more relaxing (at least temperature wise) round of golf. Additionally, football season is starting which leads to many weekends tailgating with family and friends. If I am not tailgating or golfing, I’ll be in my backyard smoking meat, relaxing in a hammock, playing games with my kids, listening to music, or playing fetch with our dog.
Would you rather go 30 days without your phone or your entire life without dessert?
Take my phone now. I eat my desserts first!
What’s your favorite board game or card game, and who do you play with?
This would be Euchre. Growing up in Indiana, you learn quickly how to play Euchre and how to play the right way or else your dad will let you know you made a mistake! In fact, playing Euchre in college is how I first met my wife. During Covid restrictions, my college friends and I would play Euchre through an app while meeting virtually on Zoom with each other. We have a running total of games won for each person and continue that today. I’m sure we will eventually all settle our bets.
2000 – Bachelor of Science: Management and Entrepreneurship, Indiana University Kelley School of Business
2006 – Qualified 401(k) Administrator credential, American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries Association
2007 – Qualified Pension Administrator credential, American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries Association
Garrett, AIF®, is a Wealth Advisor at Shepherd Financial. Garrett joined Shepherd Financial in 2018 as part of the Logan Lavelle Hunt Wealth Management division merger.
Garrett and his wife, Melissa, currently reside in Sellersburg, Indiana, with their daughters, McKenzie and Gracelyn, and son, Gavyn.
What is your favorite quote?
‘To each there comes in their lifetime a special moment when they are figuratively tapped on the shoulder and offered the chance to do a very special thing, unique to them and fitted to their talents. What a tragedy if that moment finds them unprepared or unqualified for that which could have been their finest hour.’ Sir Winston Churchill
Would you prefer a beach house or mountain cabin?
Beach house!
If you could golf in any foursome, who would you pick?
Michael Jordan, Jack Nicklaus, and former President Trump
What is your favorite restaurant?
Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse
Would you rather live without TV or music?
I would give up TV.
2017 – Accredited Investment Fiduciary® designation, Fi360 (now Broadridge)
20 People to Know in Wealth Management (2023)
Louisville Business First
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Brent Soller
Brent, CFP®, is a Wealth Advisor at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2024, Brent spent nearly eight years at Soller Insurance Agency, Inc.
2003 – Bachelor of Science: Economics – Miami University
2008 – CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification, College for Financial Planning
2011 – MBA: Investment Management – The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business
Megan is a Client Relationship Consultant at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2024, Megan spent 12 years in the financial services industry.
Megan and her wife, Carrie, reside in Brownsburg, Indiana with their two sons.
What’s your favorite season and why?
Hands down my favorite season is Fall- football starts back up, leaves start changing colors, and the weather is perfect! I love watching football on Saturdays & Sundays with the windows open and a nice breeze blowing through the house. Our family also loves going to our local orchard to get fresh apple cider.
What’s your favorite sport/sports team – professional, college? If you’ve got one, who’s your favorite athlete?
My favorite college sports team is absolutely Indiana University! I am a die-hard IU basketball fan and have been my entire life. My favorite professional sports team is the Indianapolis Colts.
What is an unpopular opinion you have?
Pineapple is delicious on pizza! My family loves a peperoni & pineapple pizza. Personally, I love a good Hawaiian pizza.
Beach house or mountain cabin?
100% a beach house – preferably on a soft, white sugar sand beach.
If you could golf with any foursome, who would they be?
My dream foursome would be Tiger Woods, Arnold Palmer, my great-grandfather, and myself. My great-grandfather bought me my first set of clubs when I was 10, and I immediately fell in love with the sport. We spent hundreds of hours together at the golf course, and I would love the opportunity to play with him one more time. When I was really starting to follow golf, I became captivated by Tiger’s skill and his intense focus which made the game exciting. I’m a huge fan of Arnold, so much so that my youngest son’s middle name is Palmer.
2007 – Bachelor of Science: Sports Management – Indiana University Indianapolis
Brittany, QKA®, TGPC, CHSA®, QKC is a Client Relationship Consultant at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2017, Brittany spent 12 years in the financial services industry.
Brittany and her husband, Rick, currently reside in Carmel, Indiana, with their daughters, Molly and Maren.
What is something you must have to get through the day?
I need snuggles from our dogs – we have two, and they bring us so much joy. If we are traveling without them, I miss them dearly. They are always happy to see us and up for cuddles and belly rubs. Taking the dogs for a walk by myself while listening to music, a book, or a podcast is one of my favorite things to do.
Do you prefer coffee or tea?
Coffee! As a kid, I could not understand my parents’ love of coffee. I thought the smell and taste were gross. But now, I love it. I drink it plain or with a little bit of milk, but it’s a morning staple. There aren’t any fancy coffee machines at the Vollmar household, just our old faithful coffee maker that my husband starts each morning. For the occasional splurge, I will get a fancy latte or cold brew.
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream, and where is the best place to get it?
Am I repeating myself here? Coffee! You can call it mocha or java – if it tastes like coffee, I love it. Locally, Handel’s is a family favorite. Otherwise, we love finding ice cream shops during vacations and travel. Ice cream always tastes better on vacation.
If money was not a factor, how would you live your life?
Growing up, I thought the coolest job possible was ski patrol – you’d ski the mountain all day, help people, and get the summers off. Even today, I think that would be a pretty awesome gig.
Which life lesson has had the greatest impact on you?
‘Keep your eye on the ball.’ I played a lot of sports growing up and continue to coach several youth sports. Today, keeping my eye on the ball translates to keeping my focus on what is most important: my faith, my family, and having a service-driven heart in all aspects of life.
2006 – Bachelor of Science: Marketing, French – Butler University Lacy School of Business
2014 – Qualified 401(k) Administrator credential, American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries Association
2018 – Tax-Exempt & Governmental Plan Consultant credential, American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries Association
2018 – Certified Health Savings Adviser designation, Access Point HSA
2021 – Qualified 401(k) Consultant credential, American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries Association
Kylie is a Client Solutions Coordinator for Shepherd Financial. She joined Shepherd Financial in 2022.
Kylie currently resides in Fishers, Indiana.
What’s your favorite sport/sports team?
My favorite sport is hockey. Growing up in Northern Indiana, my dad and I bonded over watching the Chicago Blackhawks play.
Which animal would be the most terrifying if it could speak? Why?
I think a rat would be the most terrifying animal if it could speak. They live in the worst places and see terrible things that would haunt someone’s nightmares, and I would not want to hear those stories.
What’s your favorite season?
My favorite season is fall. My birthday is in October, and Halloween is my favorite holiday.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
I would want the power of teleportation. I think it would be really cool to be able to travel to different time periods and experience civilization in the past.
Would you rather live without TV or without music?
I would rather live life without TV. I love a good movie, but I haven’t seen a movie that gives me the same feeling that a few of my favorite songs do.
Brad, QKA®, CRPC®, is a Client Relationship Consultant at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2022, Brad spent 16 years in the financial services industry.
Brad and his wife, Kara, currently reside in Westfield, Indiana, with their sons, Barrett and Bowen, and daughter, Blakely.
Do you have a favorite sports team or athlete?
Because I grew up in Lafayette and went to Purdue, I have been a lifelong Purdue fan (and sufferer). Drew Brees is my favorite athlete because of what he’s done on and off the field.
What is your favorite season?
Summer! I like to spend time outside coaching my kids’ sports teams, working in the yard, taking care of the garden, and going to the neighborhood pool.
What do you need to get through the day?
No question – I need my podcasts. Whether sports- or investment-related, I like having background noise as I go about my day.
Would you prefer a beach house or mountain cabin?
My favorite vacation spots are on the Gulf Coast of Florida, so I would love a beach house. You would always be able to find me laying on the beach or playing with my three kids.
Which cheesy song from your childhood do you still love?
It has to be anything late ’90s or early ’00s. Specifically, I can belt out every lyric of ‘It’s Gonna Be Me’ by *NSYNC.
2005 – Bachelor of Science: Management, Finance, Economics, Purdue University Krannert School of Management
2020 – Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor℠ designation, College for Financial Planning
2022 – Qualified 401(k) Administrator® credential, American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries Association
Heather is a Business Support Specialist at Shepherd Financial. Prior to joining Shepherd Financial in 2021, Heather spent 18 years with the Delaware Township Trustee’s Office.
Heather currently resides in Carmel, Indiana.
What are your favorite sports teams?
I love my hometown teams, the Colts and Pacers. My family has had season tickets for the Colts since they came to Indianapolis in 1984. I also root root root for the Cubbies! When I was a kid and we visited our grandparents during the summer, my grandma would let me stay up late to watch Cubs games.
What is an activity you learned to enjoy later in life?
I started rock climbing almost five years ago. It is a unique sport that requires both physical and mental skills (making it much harder for me on some days!).
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream, and where is the best place to get it?
You have to go to Ivanhoe’s in Upland, Indiana (near my alma mater, Taylor University). They have 100 shakes and 100 sundae flavors. My personal favorite is the Trojan Two shake, a mint chocolate chip shake with cookie dough pieces and a scoop of chocolate ice cream on top.
Which cheesy song from your childhood do you still love?
You probably have not heard of it – Pretty Little Angel Eyes by Curtis Lee. It is my song with my dad, and I still own the record he bought for me.
What are your favorite books?
If you are looking for a long read, check out The Count of Monte Cristo. If you need a shorter adventure, go for The Scarlet Pimpernel.
2003 – Bachelor of Arts: Business Administration, Taylor University
Dane is a Paraplanner at Shepherd Financial. He was an intern at Shepherd Financial during the Fall of 2023 and officially joined the Shepherd Financial team in 2024.
Dane currently resides in Greenwood, Indiana.
If money was not a factor, how would you live your life?
I would live in the mountains with my family where I would day-trade, hunt, fish, and garden.
Which life lesson has had the greatest impact on you?
“This too, shall pass.”
What is your favorite book or movie? Title? Author/director/producer?
My favorite film is Interstellar. It was directed by Christopher Nolan.
What’s your favorite board game or card game, and who do you play with?
Catan is my favorite board game, and I would play this game many nights during my final semester of college. It is a strategy board game involving smart resource management.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
My biggest pet peeve is when people are obnoxiously loud and cannot “read the room.”
2024 – Bachelor of Arts: Italian Cultural Studies, DePauw University
