THE HOYLECOHEN TEAM

April Schultz, CFP®

As a Financial Planner & Wealth Advisor, April leads the Financial Planning Department to create financial analyses and projections, including tax planning, estate planning, education funding, risk management, cash flow, and retirement analysis. She supports the monitoring of clients’ financial situations and works closely with clients to develop tailored strategies and foster a collaborative experience.

April received her Bachelor of Business Administration and Financial Services with a Certificate in Personal Financial Planning and a minor in Biology from San Diego State University. She also holds the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) professional designation. She joined HoyleCohen with several years of prior experience in financial planning and a passion for the industry, especially for the Women & Wealth practice. April also serves as a board member for the Financial Planning Association’s San Diego NexGen chapter.

Born and raised in Orange County, April moved to San Diego for college. In her free time, she enjoys tennis, pickleball, and sailing. She loves to travel and fell in love with Rome while studying abroad in Italy.

Brandon Bol, MSF, CFP®

Brandon has been with HoyleCohen since 2016, serving in several capacities. In his advisory role, Brandon facilitates ongoing wealth management services for the firm’s clients. His areas of expertise include financial planning & portfolio management, as well as tax & estate planning. Brandon works closely with clients to develop tailored strategies and foster a collaborative experience. In addition to working with clients, Brandon chairs the Portfolio Oversight Subcommittee, which is tasked with assessing & monitoring client portfolio allocations, tax management, risk, and execution of trades across the firm. He also sits on the firm’s Investment Committee.

Brandon received his Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance, and a Master of Science in Finance from the University of San Diego, graduating from both with honors. He holds the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) professional designation and is an active member of the Financial Planning Association’s San Diego chapter.

In his spare time, Brandon enjoys playing golf & pickleball, taking his dog Apollo for a walk on the beach, or simply spending time with friends and family.

Brooke Warner, CFA, CFP®

Brooke Warner is a Wealth Advisor and current Advisory Board Chair at HoyleCohen. Brooke services business owners and clients transitioning into retirement and is also an integral part of the firm’s Women’s Practice. Brooke leverages both her sophisticated technical skills and passion for building relationships in her work with clients. She serves her clients with insight, integrity and experience honed over more than ten years in the wealth management industry. She focuses on educating clients and creating strategies so they can feel confident in the management of their financial matters.

Brooke has earned a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation and is a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®). She is also an active part of the Investment Committee and Advisory Board at HoyleCohen.

A California native, Brooke was born and raised in San Jose, before relocating south to San Diego after graduating in 2003 where she fell in love with the region’s vibrant nature and outdoorsy lifestyle. In her spare time, Brooke enjoys running, trail-hiking and globe-trotting with her husband Paul and two young sons. She is an active member of the CFA Society of San Diego and involved with her local church.

Bruce Berti

Bruce Berti is the Chief Financial Officer and Partner at HoyleCohen. Bruce’s role as Chief Financial Officer involves monthly GAAP financial accounting, firm budgeting and Sarbanes-Oxley compliance. Bruce has over 15 years of experience performing back office functions in the Registered Investment Advisor space and over 25 years in business administration.

Bruce is the proud dad of one son and four grandchildren who live in his native Massachusetts. Bruce lives in Carlsbad, and in his free time enjoys exercise, golfing and spending as much time at the beach as he can.

Caeli Cusworth

Caeli joined the San Diego office as a Client Service Associate in January 2022 and has since then moved into a Senior CSA role. Caeli has over 5+ years of financial planning experience, most recently as a Client Service Associate at Bogart Wealth. She graduated from Virginia Tech in 2017 with a Bachelor’s degree in Financial Planning and recently relocated to San Diego from Arlington.

In her role, Caeli supports Senior Wealth Advisor, Ty Summerlin, and his advisory clients. She serves as the client’s main point of contact, championing the client relationship by responding to client inquiries, managing client communications, paperwork, and data, coordinating client meetings, and facilitating financial transactions. Her tenacious work ethic and eagerness to forge lasting relationships with her clients make her an important asset of the Client Services team.

Caeli enjoys traveling, attending concerts with friends, and cheering on the Hokies. Born and raised in the Midwest, she has lived on both coasts and both American continents!

Carmen Sayre

Carmen Sayre joined the HoyleCohen Finance and Accounting Department in May 2022 as an Accounting Associate reporting directly to the CFO. She responsible for accounting support duties related to accounts payable, accounts receivable, analysis of financial and statistical statements and reports, and budgeting and forecasting activities. Carmen has a BS degree from San Diego State University and over 7 years of related experiences.

In her spare time, Carmen enjoys spending time with her family, taking her children to football and dance classes, photography, watching football and going to the beach. Carmen was born in Nicaragua and raised in San Diego. She is bilingual.

Chase Campbell, CFP®

Chase Campbell, CFP®, began working in the Santa Monica offices at HoyleCohen in 2021, bringing with him 5+ years of financial services experience. He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from California State University, Northridge, went on to earn his CFP designation from NYU, and is currently an active member of the Financial Planning Association.

As a Wealth Advisor for the firm, Chase is responsible for working closely with clients to help them achieve their financial goals, following high standards of business and professional ethics, as well as legal and regulatory requirements. He works with the team’s senior advisors to develop sound client-centric strategies, foster a unique client experience, and find and cultivate new  prospects. His drive and commitment to upholding ethics and engaging in professional development make him an outstanding member of the HoyleCohen team.

In his spare time, Chase enjoys all outdoor activities, particularly hiking, golfing, snowboarding, and riding his motorcycle. He’s also an avid skydiver and a member of the United States Parachute Association.

Chuck Ebersole, CLU, ChFC, CFP®, CAP®, AEP®

Chuck Ebersole is a Senior Wealth Advisor and Legacy Coach at HoyleCohen. With over 40 years in the financial services industry, he is committed to offering comprehensive financial solutions for the complex problems and undiscovered opportunities his clients face. Chuck’s longstanding client relationships have allowed him to work with generations of families in HoyleCohen’s Sacramento office.

Chuck is a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®), Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC). Chuck also holds the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® (CAP®) designation and the Accredited Estate Planner (AEP®) designation. Chuck is a member of the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT), and a Charter Member of the Legacy Wealth Coach group in which he has served as both a Legacy Wealth Coach and a K2 member of the Legacy Wealth Coach Network of advisors.

Passionate about serving his community, Chuck has served as a past President of the Golden Empire Chapter of the American Heart Association, Sacramento Estate Planning Council and Sacramento Planned Giving Forum. He has also authored five books: The Future of You (2012); It is Not About Your Money, It is About Your Life (2010); Business Owners Retirement Plan Survival Guide (1996); The Value of “Beyond Expectations” Service: creating a career of value (1991); and The Survival Guide for Heirs (1988).

Colleen Gepp, CFP®

Colleen Gepp is a Senior Wealth Advisor at HoyleCohen with over thirty years of experience serving clients. She currently advises over 100 individuals, families and corporate clients. Colleen’s greatest strength is in the personal relationships she develops with her financial planning and investment advisory clients. She is passionate about not only helping clients achieve their financial goals, but also upholding and honoring the trust placed in her by her longtime clients and friends.

Colleen holds the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) professional designation and is a registered Investment Advisory Representative (IAR).

Colleen is a fourth generation San Diego native. She enjoys playing golf, dancing, photography, playing music and spending time with her family.

Debbie Sandoval

Debbie Sandoval is a Senior Client Service Associate supporting several Senior Wealth Advisors in the firm. Debbie has over twenty years of experience serving clients in the financial services industry. In her role, Debbie assists with onboarding clients, administering and managing their accounts, moving money for investments and disbursement requests and managing retirement account required distributions.

Debbie has a passion for serving clients, resolving their questions and fulfilling their requests. For Debbie, there is no client task too large or too small and she takes great pride in her commitment to HoyleCohen and to the clients she works with.

Derek S. Taddei, CPFA

Derek Taddei serves as a financial analyst and 401k/retirement specialist for the firm. His primary responsibilities include participating in the managed securities research subcommittee, which is the backbone of the investment selection process for participant directed retirement plans and coordinating the firm’s investment service with participant directed retirement plan sponsors. He liaises and advises Plan Sponsors with Recordkeepers, Administrators, Custodians, and other professional service firms engaged by, or needing to be engaged by our plan sponsor clients.

Derek has 10+ years of financial industry experience, joining Stellar Capital Management in 2013 as an intern, transitioning through different roles, and gaining a deep understanding of the business, which led to his current role with research and retirement plans. He holds the CPFA (Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor) designation which is awarded to financial professionals who demonstrate expertise and experience working with retirement plans, including 401(k)s, 403(b)s, and other defined contribution plans. He is also a member of the Central Arizona Estate Planning Council and the Western Pension & Benefits Council.

Derek was a college student-athlete playing Division I and Division II Men’s Soccer. He has served as a Soccer Coach for the Sunshine League, a sports program for special needs children and adults, and volunteered for various non-profit organizations behind the scenes during fund raising events.

Devon Hunter

Devon came to HoyleCohen as a Financial Planner in 2023. He holds a BA in Economics from UC Merced, and is currently a MA in Economics student at CSU Sacramento (Graduating Spring 2024). Devon’s professional background is in construction management, specifically industrial/commercial electrical and telecommunications work, but his strong interest in financial and behavioral economics has influenced his decision to make a career in the financial industry.

From Devon: “I have a strong interest in financial and behavioral economics. I value efficiency and cooperation, which economics studies.”

Devon is a dual citizen and spent several years living abroad in Europe. He is fluent in Czech and Slovak and can speak basic Farsi. As the son of a refugee and the husband of an immigrant, Devon is passionate about helping immigrant families successfully transition to their new homes. He holds a TEFL certificate and teaches classes on business English to local immigrant communities.

Elisabeth Cullington, CFP®

Elisabeth Cullington is a Managing Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor, and co-founder of the Women’s Practice at HoyleCohen. Elisabeth has been providing complex financial advice to professionals, business owners and women for more than three decades. She has been instrumental in helping closely held business owners navigate the landscapes and financial implications of growing and selling their companies resulting in the best outcomes for them and their families.

Elisabeth has spent much of her career helping women in transition (resulting from divorce, death or career advancement) and she especially enjoys empowering women to take ownership of their careers and finances. She is committed to helping people strategize their financial lives to prepare them for the unexpected and offer sound counsel through complex decisions. Her professional associations include membership in the Financial Planning Association, Schwab Advisory Board, Women Presidents’ Organization (WPO), and the Collaborative Family Law Group of San Diego.

When not at work Elisabeth loves to travel, play golf, and enjoy the many outdoor activities San Diego has to offer.

Ellen B. Sawyer

Ellen Sawyer is a Client Service Team Lead and a member of the HoyleCohen team since the firm’s founding in 2001. With over thirty years of experience in the financial services industry, Ellen is deeply involved with some of our longest-standing and largest client relationships. She is also an active member of the firms Diversity & Inclusion Committee which is committed to fostering an environment of inclusion, mutual respect, support and camaraderie among the staff.

Ellen is responsible for managing all aspects of her client’s service needs including account and cash management, distribution and investment funding, account administration research and tax reporting support. Ellen also has extensive experience in complex trust administration and multi-generational client relationships. As someone with a gift for developing connections, many of Ellen’s client relationships have grown into treasured friendships throughout her years at the firm.

Ellen lives in San Diego and in her leisure time, enjoys cooking, walking and the beach.

Eric Davis, CFP®

Eric Davis joined HoyleCohen in January 2023 through HoyleCohen’s merger with Davis & Seiley where he served clients and Advisors since 2017 as a Financial Planning Analyst. In his role at Davis & Seiley, Eric’s work focused on preparing financial plans, executing trading and performing portfolio analysis. Prior to 2017 he worked as a Business Analyst for Capital One Auto Finance and attended Brigham Young University obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics.

At HoyleCohen Eric is the lead advisor on many of his own clients. He also works in planning and supporting Senior Advisors through developing tailored client strategies and providing ongoing analysis relating to client investments and stock options, tax and estate planning, risk management, retirement and education funding.

Eric is a native San Diegan who lives in La Mesa with his wife, Liz, and four children. He is fluent in Spanish and his interests include soccer, woodworking, board games, reading, music, and playing with his kids.

Heather England, JD, IACCP®

Heather served as Chief Operations Officer and Chief Compliance Officer for HoyleCohen until September 2024 when the firm merged with The Colony Group and other Focus Firms. At that time, she took on the role of Director of Advisory Team Leadership, working closely with the Advisory Teams and Operations to improve processes and strategize business building opportunities.

At HoyleCohen under Heather’s leadership, firm operations have developed a focus on attracting and supporting top talent, infusing our processes with efficiency and cultivating a strong culture of compliance. As the firm’s estate and tax planning expert, Heather regularly speaks on tax planning and charitable giving topics.

Heather received her JD from Northeastern University School of Law and is an active member of the Massachusetts Bar. Heather also received her compliance certification from the national regulatory Society and holds the Investment Advisor Certified Compliance Professional (IACCP®) designation.

Beyond her work at HC, Heather is passionate about causes that support women and children. She also enjoys traveling and spending time on her beloved Cape Cod.

Ismar Zildzic

Ismar Zildzic is a Wealth Advisor who works mainly in our Sacramento office. Ismar works closely with Chuck Ebersole in providing support to multiple generations of clients. Ismar performs tax and retirement analyses for clients, reviews client portfolios and makes allocation recommendations. He is especially inspired by seeing clients who joined the firm years ago transition into retirement with peace of mind and confidence.

In a constant quest to hone and develop his skills, Ismar has acquired the Series 65 certification.

Born and raised in Bosnia, Ismar moved to the United States at the age of 15. He enjoys spending his free time with his wife and young daughter exploring Lake Tahoe, hiking, and skiing. He has also developed a love for woodworking and often undertakes projects in his garage.

Jackie Nelson

Jackie Nelson is a Senior Client Service Associate who brings over twenty years of client service, operational and administrative experience to HoyleCohen. Jackie works with Wealth Advisors and clients to ensure the comprehensive service and support HoyleCohen clients have come to expect. Jackie oversees complex accounts with a positive disposition, fiery advocacy and utmost care and stands ready to assist with the many details that arise in the course of a HoyleCohen Advisory relationship.

Jackie is originally from Lima, Peru and is a native Spanish speaker. In her spare time, Jackie loves to travel and volunteer in her community. She has lived in San Diego for over thirty years and shares her home with her husband and son.

Jacob Biliack, CFP®

Jacob serves as a Senior Financial Planner working directly with clients and supporting Wealth Advisors in servicing the firm’s existing and prospective clients. In his role, he works closely with clients directly and the financial planning team to develop customized client strategies, provide tailored financial advice, and promote a collaborative client experience. He is responsible for providing ongoing analyses relating to client investments, retirement benefits, tax and estate planning, risk management, retirement, and education funding.

Jacob earned his bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a Business minor from Northern Arizona University.  He successfully passed the Series 66 and Series 7 financial licensing exams in 2016 and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. Jacob started his career as a financial advisor for a large transnational financial services provider and then served as a financial planner for an Arizona-based registered investment advisor (RIA) before joining HoyleCohen in 2023. Jacob also served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT for over four years and was a volunteer for the Big Brother Big Sisters organization.

In his spare time, Jacob enjoys exploring Arizona’s diverse natural surroundings while hiking with his two dogs, biking, skiing, fishing, and spending time with his family and friends.

James P. Cooney, CAIA

James has worked in several capacities out of the HoyleCohen Arizona office. Currently, his main role is that of Associate Portfolio Associate, working with the Investment Research Team to provide reporting and analysis on a myriad of investment-related products and holdings.

James brings over 10 years of financial industry experience to the firm. Before joining Stellar Capital Management in 2017, he began his career at Charles Schwab as an Investment Broker later transitioning to a Financial Analyst role.

James holds a BS in Finance and Economics along with a Master of Science in Business Analytics from Grand Canyon University. He also holds the CAIA designation – a professional designation granted by the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association to candidates who have completed Level I and Level II examinations. In his off time James volunteers as an assistant varsity soccer coach for his alma mater, Brophy College Prep, and has done so since 2014.

Janet Acheatel, MBA, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP®

Janet Acheatel is a Senior Wealth Advisor and co-founder of HoyleCohen’s Women’s Practice. Janet brings over thirty years of experience encompassing deep knowledge of financial planning, investment portfolio management and retirement planning to the clients she serves. Janet has a commitment to supporting her clients through all stages of life. She is especially compassionate about advising widowed women. Janet provides value to her clients by delivering tailored strategies for creating secure, sustainable income for their years in retirement.

Janet is a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA). Janet also holds the Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP®) designation.

Janet fulfills her belief in the importance of giving back through her support of non-profit organizations. She is the current Board Chairperson and serves on the Investment Committee for the Jewish Community Foundation of San Diego. She was a board director of Hillel of San Diego from 2012 to 2019, is a founding member and past President of the Professional Association for Investment Communications Resources (PAICR), and served as a board member of the San Diego Chapter of Healthcare Business Women’s Association.

Whenever possible, Janet spends time at her home in Big Sky, Montana, where she loves to hike, golf, ski, and just enjoy being with family and nature.

Jennifer Fabrick, MBA, PHR

As Director of Human Resources, Jennifer oversees all aspects of the firm’s Human Resources, including employee relations, talent acquisition, training and development, liaising with other departments on internal communications, and compliance with state and federal employment laws. She plays a vital role in strategizing with and supporting Leadership as they navigate the many organizational changes and decisions that come with a growing firm.

Jennifer joined HoyleCohen in January 2023, bringing with her 15+ years of experience. she holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Arizona State University West, an MBA from the University of Phoenix, and the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certificate.

In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, learning new languages, cooking/baking for her family, and cheering for the KC Chiefs. She’s also passionate about volunteering with the Cornerstone Therapeutic Riding Center, an organization dedicated to enriching the lives of wounded and recovering veterans and first responders.

Julie McDowell

Julie McDowell joined HoyleCohen in January 2023 through HoyleCohen’s merger with Davis & Seiley where she worked as their Office Manager since 2021. Julie is responsible for client scheduling and keeping the office running smoothly through order procurement, answering phones, overseeing deliveries, to name a few. Julie also plays a key role in planning and organizing client workshops and events.

Julie holds a bachelor’s degree from California State University, Fullerton. She lives in San Diego with her husband, Jim and their daughter, Paige. For fun, Julie enjoys game nights with her family, crafting, baking, and leading her daughter’s Girl Scout Troup.

Katherine Siriwan, CFP®

Kathy Siriwan is a Wealth Advisor and Senior Portfolio Manager for the firm. Kathy manages fixed income securities and cash equivalents in individual accounts and designs portfolios primarily for our Santa Monica clients. Kathy also assists clients with 529 plan accounts, other college savings vehicles as well as education loan programs.

In addition to over twenty years of experience in the financial services industry, Kathy also holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation.

Kathy is an avid traveler. She has been to over 30 countries and counting. When not exploring the world, Kathy continues to be an active member of the Alumni Association at her alma mater, The University of Southern California. She is also currently a board member of the USC Second Decade Society.

Kathy Bazzocco

Kathy is a Senior Client Service Associate at HoyleCohen and has been serving HoyleCohen clients in the Sacramento office alongside Chuck Ebersole for over thirty eight years. Her attention to detail, exceptional client management skills and extensive experience combine to make Kathy an invaluable member of the HoyleCohen team.

In her free time, Kathy enjoys cooking and spending time with her husband, their children and grandchildren. Her fondness of Northern California and family has kept Kathy in the region for her entire life, and she looks forward to remaining there upon retirement.

Kevin Hoyle

Kevin Hoyle is a Founding Partner of HoyleCohen. After helping to grow the firm to where it is today, he now focuses all his time on his longstanding clients and his family since passing the reigns on to the next generation of managing directors. In addition to serving private clients for over thirty years, Kevin has also served as a financial consultant to organizations such as the Scripps Clinic Medical Group and Sharp Rees‐Stealy Medical Group.

Kevin holds the following insurance licenses: Long Term Care, Life, Accident, Health, and Variable Life. He also holds Securities Licenses: 3, 4, 7, 8, 24, 63 and 65.

Dedicated to community service, Kevin has served as Chairman of the Board of Scripps Hospital–Encinitas, Chairman of the Rancho Santa Fe Community Foundation and Treasurer of the Ecke Family YMCA in Encinitas. Kevin also enjoys boating and keeping fit, but on most free days you will find him enjoying golf or time with his family.

Kittiwat Sripom, CFP®

Kittiwat Sripom is a Trading and Technology specialist who works out of our Santa Monica office. He assists our portfolio managers in the research and analysis of equities and mutual funds for many of our clients. He is also a primary liaison with the custodial trading desk, and manages technology functions for our Santa Monica office.

Kittiwat also holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation.

In his spare time, Kittiwat enjoys traveling, spending time with his wife and playing with his young son and daughter.

Kyle Whisenhunt, CFP®

Kyle joined our San Diego office as a Wealth Advisor in August 2022. As such he works directly with Senior Wealth Advisors in servicing the firm’s existing and prospective clients to develop tailored client strategies and foster a collaborative client experience. He is responsible for providing ongoing analyses relating to client investments and stock options, tax and estate planning, risk management, retirement and education funding.

Kyle graduated from SDSU with both a BA and an Executive Certificate in Advanced Financial Planning. He holds the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) professional designation and has over 13 years of experience in financial services.

In his spare time, Kyle loves all sports especially San Diego Padres baseball, SDSU basketball, and Ohio State football. He also loves to travel and looks forward to doing more travelling with his wife in coming years.

Laura Decker

Laura Decker is a Senior Client Services Associate and Client Service Team Lead at HoyleCohen. Laura has over thirty years of client service and administrative experience. Her responsibilities at HoyleCohen involve working directly with Wealth Advisors in all aspects of the client relationship. Laura also acts as liaison between internal departments and outside custodians to ensure client accounts are established and maintained with the proper attention and accuracy. Laura has a demonstrated dedication to her clients and it shows in all she does. As a Team Lead, Laura helps to streamline processes, improve communications, create efficiencies, and provide learning opportunities for other CSA’s.

Born and raised in San Diego, Laura spent twenty years as a military spouse living in the South and on the East Coast but returned to San Diego to be close to her family. She enjoys weight training and is a California state record holding powerlifter! Laura also enjoys spending time with her daughter who lives in Kansas City, MO.

Laura LaLonde

Laura LaLonde joined our Operations team in October 2022 as an Operations Associate reporting directly to the Manager of Client Services. Laura is responsible for managing client onboarding, maintaining client data and billing, and ensuring efficiencies of multiple client related systems and processes.

Laura graduated from the University of Colorado with a BA in Communications and worked for several years in Financial Planning/Wealth Management, most recently as a Client Service Manager at Denver West Financial.

In her spare time, Laura enjoys skiing, motorcycle riding, camping, dancing, bowling and travelling. She currently lives in Denver, Colorado with her husband and two dogs.

Laurie Shandley

As Investment Operations Manager for the firm, Laurie has been a key architect of centralized trading and portfolio management, instrumental in enhancing operational efficiencies and ensuring robust support for both our clients and advisory teams.  Laurie oversees daily portfolio administration, including cash management, rebalancing and trade execution, capital calls, journals and distributions, and redeployment of proceeds.  Laurie’s leadership and expertise foster trust and promote effective communication with Advisory Teams, leading to better outcomes for client accounts.

Laurie joined us in late 2020, bringing with her over 25 years of experience in the finance industry. Prior to this, she spent 19 years at Brandes Investment Partners, a prominent local investment advisory firm managing global equity and fixed-income assets. During her tenure there, she served as a Senior Account Analyst, managing their largest SMA relationship, and later transitioned to a role as a Trading and Operational Risk Specialist. In this capacity, Laurie combined her extensive trading experience with a sharp eye for detail to develop and enforce procedures aimed at mitigating trading risks.

Laurie lives in San Diego where she enjoys the beaches, hiking, yoga, and local restaurants.  She also spends her free time reading and traveling with her family.

Leslie Hodgson

Leslie Hodgson joined the San Diego office in February 2021 as a Client Service Associate bringing with her 25+ years of financial services experience, with a focus on client service and account management. Leslie interfaces regularly with clients, is responsible for paperwork flow and ensuring the client relationship is maintained in a myriad of ways.

Leslie holds her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Colorado at Boulder, and she has experience in all operational aspects of working at an independent RIA.

Born and raised in La Jolla, CA, in her spare time, Leslie enjoys spending time with her family, reading, walking and bike riding in San Diego. She also actively volunteers in her community through Rady Children’s Hospital, beach clean-ups, equestrian therapy and women’s shelters.

Lorin Bello

Lorin Bello has worked for the firm for 17+ years in a variety of roles including Accounting Associate, Engagement & Compliance Manager, Project Manager, and now as a Business Analyst.  She is instrumental in the administration of all aspects of the firm’s business functions including project management, accounting, billing, and human resources. Her vigorous attention to detail is invaluable as she collaborates with many internal teams in a project management capacity. Lorin’s commitment to processes and efficiency is highlighted through her implementation of business procedures that promote productivity and streamline workflows.

Lorin is a San Diego native who currently resides in San Elijo Hills with her husband Chris and daughter Tru. She has a passion for interior design, enjoys spending summers with family in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho and fills her free time connecting with friends and neighbors in her lively community.

Lucas Kulma, CFA, CFP®

Lucas Kulma is a Wealth Advisor for HoyleCohen. As such he works with clients to develop strategies and financial plans geared towards meeting their short and long-term goals and equipping them with knowledge to make confident financial decisions. His clients receive ongoing proactive advice on their investments, taxes, estate plans, insurance, cash flow and much more as their lives and the world at large changes.

Lucas brings over 15 years of experience in the financial services industry and is a graduate from Miami University of Ohio with a B.S. in Finance. He also holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designations.

Outside of the office, Lucas enjoys playing squash and golfing but his greatest thrill in life comes from spending time with his wife and their two children.

Lucien Heilbronner

Lucien Heilbronner joined the Client Service team in October 2022, as a Senior Client Service Associate reporting to the Manager of Client Services. Mainly supporting the clients of Senior Wealth Advisor and Partner, Elisabeth Cullington,  Lucien serves as first point-of-contact to clients, assisting with custodial resources, managing the paperwork process, performing various administrative duties, facilitating financial transactions, and more.

Lucien earned a BS in Economics from Towson University and has worked in Client Services for several years, most recently at Brown Advisory in Washington D.C.

In his spare time, Lucien enjoys being active and especially hiking, snowboarding, golfing, running, and traveling.

Mark Delfino, MBA

Mark Delfino joined the HoyleCohen team in 2007 and became an owner and Managing Director in 2008. With his extensive experience in business, planning, and investment management, he has successfully scaled operations while increasing investment, financial planning, and client service capabilities. Mark is dedicated to building a firm of people who are client-centric and value teamwork, diversity of thought and experience, and personal growth.

Mark has maintained a clear purpose and vision for the firm and its clients. He successfully navigated the firm through the 2008 financial crisis and orchestrated the ensuing growth. As a result, HoyleCohen has more than quintupled in size since he joined while maintaining high levels of service, value and intimacy with clients.

Mark earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Butler University and holds an MBA from Harvard University. His professional experience includes 20+ years as an operating executive and trusted advisor in the investment, consulting, and tech spaces.

Mark is passionate about helping entrepreneurs and promoting personal and social responsibility. He enjoys skiing, hiking, listening to music and visiting the theater. He lives in Encinitas, CA with his wife and has three adult children.

Matthew Kearney

Matthew (Matt) joined our team in January 2022, as a Client Service Associate. Matt works closely with several Wealth Advisors to support their clients. He performs a myriad of administrative duties and financial functions including liaising with our operations team and custodial partners, responding to client inquiries, coordinating client meetings, and contacting clients with information regarding their accounts and investments.

Matt graduated from California State University, San Marcos with a Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Anthropology and brings with him over 10 years of varied experience in business management, most recently working as a commercial property appraiser.

Matt enjoys running, cooking, reading, listening to music, studying history, and traveling. He regularly engages in direct food and resource distribution within the San Diego community.

Mike Bienert

Michael (Mike) Bienert began working at HoyleCohen in May 2023 as an Operations Associate reporting to the Manager of Operations & Client Services. In this role he is responsible for managing client onboarding, maintaining client data and billing, and ensuring efficiencies related to private markets, alternative investments, and other client systems and processes.

Mike brings over 5 years of experience in financial operations, starting as an intern, which culminated in his most recent role as a Senior Alternative Analyst.

Mike graduated from the Virginia Tech with a Bachelor of Science in Finance, earned his Chartered Investment Analyst certification, and is a CFA Level 1 Candidate (May 2023).

In his spare time, Michael enjoys playing golf tennis, hiking, skiing, and surfing. He volunteers time at the MaxFund Animal Shelter and works remotely from Denver.

Nathan Mirji

Nathan Mirji came to HoyleCohen in August 2022 as a Paraplanner working out of our Santa Monica Office. As such he supports the advisory teams in a myriad of ways. He is responsible for all steps of the financial planning process including obtaining information from clients, identifying client needs, modeling financial scenarios, implementing, and presenting financial plans.

Nathan received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an option in Financial Planning from CSU Northridge and is studying for the CFP^® designation. He brings several years of experience in supporting CPA’s and CFP’s in both tax and audit environments.

In his spare time Nathan enjoys playing basketball and baseball, researching market trends, and travelling back to India where his family is from to immerse himself in Indian culture.

Peter Mueller, MBA, CFP®

Peter Mueller is a Managing Partner and Senior Wealth Manager at HoyleCohen. Peter oversees portfolio management and client service in the Santa Monica office. He has over 25 years of experience in portfolio design, management, and financial planning.

Peter has a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from Pepperdine University. Peter is also a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®).

Peter has a passion for helping clients through all financial life stages. In his free time he enjoys outdoor activities with his wife and two sons.

Rachel Jackson, PMQ, WMS™

Rachel Jackson began her career at HoyleCohen as a Client Services Associate, creating and heading up the role of Senior Manager of Client Operations, and now serving as the Director of Client Operations. Rachel oversees the Client Services Department, including all CSAs and Client Operations Staff. She is responsible for ensuring a smooth stream of communications and processes between our Advisory Teams, Fund Managers, Custodians, and Client Services Teams. She is fundamental in creating and managing interdepartmental processes related to investment maintenance, document management, information maintenance, and our custodial relationships. Rachel is also responsible for integrating technology flow into client service processes to leverage our systems and build efficiencies.

Rachel has over 15 years of experience in the financial services industry including client service management, marketing, and administration. and holds a People Manager Qualification (PMQ) designation and a Wealth Management Specialist (WMS™) certification. She co-hosted the HC Culture Committee for 2 years and is passionate about fostering a culture of inclusion, collaboration, and fun.

When she is not in the office, Rachel and her husband, Josh are busy raising their three daughters. Weekends consist of soccer, basketball, traveling and spending time with family.

Rachel M. Luken, CFP®

Rachel M. Luken is a Senior Wealth Advisor and Partner of HoyleCohen. Rachel has over twenty-five years of experience in financial services. Her core work involves advocating for clients on their day‐to‐day planning and investment needs. She adopts a holistic planning approach, ensuring that her clients’ needs are met and goals achieved without overlooking opportunities and challenges along the way. Rachel has a gift for the big picture and she works tirelessly to enhance the service and support of every HoyleCohen client as well as the efficiency and effectiveness of the firm as a whole.

Rachel loves to help others and she makes herself available to clients and peers alike. She actively mentors the younger generation of advisors and advisory teams at the firm and finds great satisfaction in helping others to succeed. Rachel’s roots began in Minnesota where she earned her degree. She also holds the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) designation.

Rachel and her husband Dan moved to San Diego in 2000 and feel blessed to be raising their family in such a beautiful setting.  When she’s out of the office you can find her enjoying soccer, scrapbooking and savoring every minute of her two sons’ young lives.  Family is a top priority for Rachel and with her two boys, two dogs & two cats – the household stays quite active!  She fills her free time with outdoor activities, family vacations as well as reading and yoga.

Robert Carnegie, CFA, CFP®, CEPA

Robert (Bob) Carnegie has served as an advisor to HNW families for 15+ years, primarily working with entrepreneurs, business leaders, and people in transition due to a death or divorce. His experience has taught him that there is one essential element to any successful advisor-client relationship:  trust.

Bob establishes trust with his clients at the onset by making every effort to gain a deep understanding of each family’s unique situation. Working collaboratively with his clients, he helps them define and outline not only specific financial goals and challenges, but more importantly, personal and family values. With values forming the foundation, Bob can then provide prudent investment advice, implement thoughtful planning strategies, and deliver measurable results. Throughout every step in the process, he consistently demonstrates how much he cares about the families he serves.

Bob joined HoyleCohen in June of 2021 and immediately started making a positive impact in Phoenix and the firm. Acting as a Co-Chair in the Advisory Leadership Council since September of 2022, he has emerged as a thoughtful, respected leader who has helped the ALC coalesce into a group with a common agenda and shared purpose. In April 2023 Bob was promoted to Director of Advisory Services, overseeing the Advisory Leadership Council (ALC), our Advisory teams, and our Financial Planning department.

Bob earned the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation and is a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) and more recently became a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) enabling him to further assist business owners in planning for successful exits.  He is a member of the FPA of Greater Phoenix, CFA Society Phoenix, and the Estate Planning Councils of Central Arizona and the East Valley.  Before relocating to Arizona, Bob was an active community member in his hometown of Pittsburgh, serving as a board member of the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden and a graduate of the Pittsburgh Leadership Development Initiative. A lover of the outdoors and an avid visitor of our national parks, Bob looks forward to exploring all that the Southwest has to offer with his wife and two children.

Ryan Ragoza

Ryan joined our Santa Monica office as a Senior Financial Planner in April 2024. Born and raised in New Jersey, he studied Mechanical Engineering at Rutgers University and worked as an engineer, designing food production machines. (He holds patents in both the US and the UK!). After relocating to Los Angeles in 2021, he decided to transition from engineering to finance, earning his Financial Planning certificate from UCLA and passing the CFP Board exam.

With a natural curiosity and a passion for understanding others, Ryan values honest and straightforward communication. His keen interest in financial markets, coupled with the desire to help people see their financial pictures more clearly, prompted him to make the career move into Finance. While the two professions are quite different, the soft skills he acquired as an engineer have proven to be very transferable when communicating technical concepts in plain language to clients.

Something personal you may not know about Ryan – during the pandemic, he did something he always wanted to do and drove across the country! He enjoys the outdoors, traveling to new places, visiting national parks, and searching for the perfect cheeseburger. So, he took advantage of the forced slowdown so many of us experienced in 2020 and did it all!

When he’s not working or relaxing at home, you can find him playing fetch with his dog, Penny.

Shawn Pourhosseini, MBA

Shawn joined HoyleCohen in 2021 as the IT & Security Manager, quickly moving into the role of Director of Technology. As such Shawn is responsible for managing the firm’s Information Technology and Security functions. He works diligently to analyze IT workflows and security operations to identify risks, develop plans to safeguard the firm from accidental or unauthorized security breaches, implement new systems, build standardized operating procedures, and communicate status, needs, and potential issues to the Technology Team.

Shawn graduated from the University of Redlands with a Master’s degree in Business Administration, and a second Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership. In his personal life, he enjoys working on his car and taking countryside drives. A true car enthusiast, he has been differentiating car models and brands before he could talk! Technology is also a genuine passion of his. He recalls his Dad intentionally breaking the family computer so that Shawn could troubleshoot how to fix it.

Sheryl L. Rayner

Sheryl L. Rayner is a Fiduciary Specialist for the firm. In this role she develops and manages the complex relationships between the office’s Fiduciary/Conservator Clients and their Custodians.

Sheryl began her career in the financial services industry in 1994 and joined S. J. Taddie, Inc. Investment Counsel in 1998. Sheryl remained with Steve Taddie and played a key role in the formation and development of Stellar Capital Management which merged into HoyleCohen in 2020. She has over 25 years of experience in operations and administration and has been involved in Phoenix RIA Compliance Roundtable for over 10 years.

Sheryl holds a BA degree in Philosophy, magna cum laude, from Arizona State University. She is a founding Board Member and former Vice President and Treasurer of EducAid International, an organization dedicated to promoting and providing education and health care to the world’s most underserved communities. She is a founding Board Member, Past President and former Treasurer of the Women’s Metropolitan Art Council, a support organization of Phoenix Art Museum, and she served as co-chair of both the Programming and Development Committees. She was an active member of her local PTA and has worked with both the Foundation for Burns and Trauma and the Foothills Foundation.

Sofia Khan

Sofia Khan serves as a Client Service Associate for HoyleCohen, bringing with her 10+ years of financial services experience, most recently at Simplicity Scottsdale.

In her role, Sofia supports a significant portion of our Phoenix clients as their main point of contact, managing their paperwork and data, answering inquiries, preparing communications, forms, and packages, coordinating meetings, and facilitating financial transactions. Her attention to detail, ability to remain calm (and funny!) in the face of a heavy workload, and general tenacity, are just a few things that make her a valued part of the Client Services Team.

In her spare time, Sofia enjoys taking road trips, with a bucket list goal of visiting all U.S. national parks. She also enjoys camping, hiking, kayaking, and horseback riding.

Stephen J. Taddie, CBE®, CFM

Steve Taddie was the co-founder and Managing Partner of Stellar Capital Management which merged with HoyleCohen in 2020. Steve has over 30 years of professional experience in the investment field, specializing in establishing economic outlook and forecasting and leading teams that provide custom-tailored management of stock and bond portfolios and provide investment fiduciary work for employer sponsored retirement plans. Steve’s background includes working with a select group of clients ranging from publicly traded corporations, government entities, and Native American Indian Tribes, to high net worth individuals and families across the country. He is frequently asked to speak on economic and investment management trends, has authored numerous articles and has often been quoted on the same subjects.

Steve holds a BS in Business and Economics from Lehigh University, and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. He has earned The Certified Business Economist™ (CBE™), which is the certification in business economics, and data analytics developed and owned by the National Association for Business Economics (NABE), and the Certified Financial Manager (CFM), which is the certification in financial management issued by the Merrill Lynch Institute, Donald T. Regan School of Advanced Financial Management.

Steve is a current member and Past President of the Arizona Economic Round Table, a member and Past President of the Central Arizona Estate Planning Conference, a member of the National Association for Business Economists (NABE) serving on its Financial Industry roundtable, a member of the CFA Institute and the Phoenix CFA Society, an Arbitrator for FINRA, and a Board Member of Focus on European Art. He has served for over a decade on the National Economic Forecast Panels for the NABE, Bloomberg, and The Regional Economic Forecast Panel for the Western Blue Chip, he has also served as a member of the Arizona Legislative Finance Advisory Committee, for over 5 years. Steve is a past member of the Economic Club of Phoenix, the Western Pension & Benefits Conference, Arizona Town Hall, and the Madison School District Financial Oversight Committee and has served on the Executive Board of the Desert Botanical Gardens Foundation, the Advisory and Executive Boards of the Foundation for Burns & Trauma, the Executive Boards for the Foothills Foundation, the Phoenix Camelback Rotary Club, and the Finance Committee for the Desert Botanical Gardens. He has also volunteered with Junior Achievement and coached youth sports teams.

Tara Alkire, FPQP®

Tara Alkire joined HoyleCohen in January 2023 through HoyleCohen’s merger with Davis & Seiley where she worked since 2013. With over a decade of experience in the financial services industry, Tara excels at assisting clients with all their administrative needs. Tara also supports multiple Advisory Teams serving as the primary point of contact for clients, managing communications, and facilitating financial transactions. Her tenacity, outstanding interpersonal skills and attention to detail make her an exceptional member of our client services team.

Tara holds a Financial Paraplanner Qualified Professional™ (FPQP®) designation and a bachelor’s degree from San Jose State University. She lives with her husband and three children in San Diego where she enjoys cooking, live concerts, and exploring the outdoors with her family.

Theresa Wolner

Theresa Wolner is the Marketing and Business Development Manager for the firm. In this role, Theresa works to support the firm and Advisory Teams in their development and marketing efforts through cultivating business communications, managing outsourced relationships relating to marketing, liaising with event planning and identifying areas of organic and M&A growth.

Theresa has a diverse background in Business Development, Marketing, Operations, and Administration. She has worked in a variety of industries and companies, including financial services, insurance, education, hospitality and turnaround consulting. She holds a degree from San Diego State University in Business Administration/Marketing and a certification in Digital Design from DDI in San Diego.

Currently Theresa lives in San Diego where she enjoys the beach, walking, cooking, reading and exploring. She has mentored young people through the YMCA, Boy Scouts, and Jr. Achievement and loves to learn new things and help people and businesses grow.

Thomas Ridgway

Thomas came to the firm in March 2023 to fill the role of Portfolio Administrator. As such he reports directly to the Investment Operations Manager and maintains client accounts through cash management and rebalancing, trade executions, and global systems maintenance.

Thomas works remotely from Maryland and graduated in 2022 from the University of Richmond with a bachelor’s degree in business administration.

In is spare time, Thomas enjoys playing and watching sports, particularly football, golf, and hockey, and considers himself a Washington DC sports enthusiast! With a passion for U.S. History, he makes a habit of visiting historical monuments all over the country. He enjoys travelling and vounteers with the Shepherd Foundation, a smaller organization that helps underserved families pay for K-12 catholic education in the DC area.

Troy Waters, CFP®

Troy Waters is the Director of Onboarding & Integration which oversees all reporting, metrics, and billing functions of the firm. Since joining HoyleCohen as one of the firm’s original team members, Troy has implemented several generations of systems and technological infrastructure to support our ongoing commitment to efficiency, transparency, and data protection.

Troy has over twenty years of experience in the financial services industry. He also holds the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) professional designation.

Troy enjoys spending his free time outdoors with his family and friends. He looks forward to winter trips to the mountains and summer trips to the family cabin in Bear Lake.

Ty Summerlin, CFP®

Ty Summerlin is a Senior Wealth Advisor at HoyleCohen. Driven by pure energy, Ty advises sophisticated clients with complex financial needs, including Biotech CEOs, private equity partners, and successful entrepreneurs. Ty has extensive expertise in the interplay between investments, estate and tax planning, including corporate stock option strategies, employee benefit analysis and retirement planning. Taking the view that his relationship with his clients is as unique as they are, Ty focuses on integrating all the moving pieces of their financial puzzle, as well as its thoughtful management and oversight.

Ty has over twenty years of experience in the financial services industry and holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation.

Like so many of his clients, Ty shares an entrepreneurial spirit and passion for giving back. A long-time health & fitness buff, he remains an active volunteer with several adaptive sports and wounded veteran organizations.

Valeria Enriquez

Valeria Enriquez serves as a Front Office Coordinator and Client Administrator for our Phoenix office. She graduated in 2021 from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in business management and has spent the past several years working in customer service for MS International.

In her role, Valeria works closely with Phoenix’s Client Service Associate(s) to manage all front office duties and provide exceptional customer service to office visitors. She also supports the Advisors in a myriad of ways including scheduling client visits, researching information, putting together meeting materials, coordinating events, and others.

In her spare time, Valeria enjoys reading, exercising at the gym, going to concerts and music festivals, and traveling. Her favorite thing, however, is trying new restaurants and coffee shops. She’s currently on the hunt for the perfect latte!

Vanessa Wieliczko, CFA, CAIA, CFP®

Vanessa served as Chief Investment Officer for HoyleCohen until September 2024 when the firm merged with The Colony Group and other Focus Firms. At that time, she took on the role of Senior Portfolio Strategist. Vanessa continues to lead the firm’s Investment Committee, helping to define future growth and development of investment management strategies. Under Vanessa’s leadership, the firm has developed a robust investment platform that offers both traditional investment approaches along with a host of alternative strategies designed to offer substantial but secure income, better downside protection and enhanced opportunity for growth.

Driven in pursuit of excellence, Vanessa holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA), and Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) designations. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from Boston University’s School of Management with a concentration in International Finance.

Vanessa is active in the community, serving as President of the CFA Society San Diego, a group of nearly 500 financial professionals. A Virginia native, Vanessa has also lived in Boston, London, and New York, and has settled down in San Diego’s Marina District Downtown. Vanessa goes above and beyond, having achieved success professionally and in serving as a mentor, wonderful wife and mother to three young boys.

Vernon Eberly, CFP®

Vernon Eberly serves as a Wealth Advisor and Senior Financial Planner at HoyleCohen. In his role as a Planner, Vernon oversees the day to day functions of the planning department including managing process flow, delivering plans and training associate planners. He also works directly with Senior Wealth Advisors supporting some of their largest client relationships. Vernon’s attention to detail allows him to provide comprehensive analyses for clients in topics ranging from stock options reviews to Roth conversions.

Vernon holds the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) professional designation, and is an active member of the San Diego chapter of the Financial Planning Association (FPA) as well as the FPA’s NextGen community.

As a graduate and advocate of the San Diego State University Personal Financial Planning program, Vernon is dedicated to introducing new planners to the industry through tailored education and training. Vernon’s passion for financial planning extends into his free time as he is constantly consuming industry content through articles, events and financial planning podcasts. When he does take a break from all things planning, Vernon loves to spend time outdoors with his wife Kristen and their young son Weston.