US Debt: Good News? The Unexpected Truth!

Senior Wealth Consultant

Associate Wealth Advisor

As an Associate Wealth Advisor, Sadie plays a key role in delivering thoughtful, well-rounded planning experiences. She supports financial planning and case preparation, manages client data and workflows, and helps ensure each relationship is built on clarity, trust, and progress.

Sadie has six years of experience in the financial services industry, including over four years at a privately held RIA firm where she collaborated closely with Certified Financial Planners on everything from building retirement plans and preparing tax projections to managing marketing content and supporting investment strategies. She also held a role as a licensed agent at a large life insurance company, giving her broad insight into the financial landscape.

Drawn to Hobart Wealth for its culture of excellence and team collaboration, Sadie values the firm’s emphasis on client experience above all. “We create a space where people feel heard and supported,” she says. “It’s more than advice, it’s advocacy.”

Outside work, Sadie enjoys hot yoga, cooking, Broadway/comedy shows, and traveling. She loves trying new recipes, visiting local restaurants and wineries, and spending quality time with her boyfriend, Aaron, and their close-knit community of family and friends.

Associate Wealth Advisor

As an Associate Wealth Advisor at Hobart Wealth, Josh partners closely with Senior Wealth Advisors to support clients in crafting financial plans that are clear, actionable, and aligned with their goals. From preparing and presenting reports to answering account-related questions and helping build plans, Josh plays a key role in delivering a thoughtful and consistent client experience.

With more than a decade in the financial services industry, Josh brings a diverse background to Hobart Wealth. He has had roles in client service, audit, and institutional operations.

For Josh, financial planning is a natural fit, combining his love for math, his STEM-oriented mindset, and his passion for helping others create real-life change. “Whether it’s retiring early or paying for a child’s education, I love being part of the strategy that turns goals into reality.”

Outside the office, Josh is an avid reader of thrillers and murder mysteries (Lisa Gardner is a favorite), a loyal fan of the Chicago Cubs and Texas Longhorns, and a dedicated member of his community. He enjoys exercising, grilling out, and spending time with his wife, Alexa, and their two dogs, Max and Fiona.

Client Experience Coordinator

Lisa Berryhill ensures every visitor to Hobart Wealth feels welcomed, informed, and well-supported. As Client Experience Coordinator, she manages day-to-day office flow, helps organize events, and plays a vital role in maintaining a professional and inviting environment.

Lisa brings more than four years of financial industry experience and a diverse background that includes co-founding a commercial tech firm. Her strengths lie in organization, problem-solving, and service-minded attention to detail.

Outside of work with Hobart Wealth, Lisa is also an active wedding planner. She has two grown sons, Connor and Jared, and a deep love for golden retrievers, especially her late pup, Jake. Lisa enjoys gardening, kayaking, and water fitness classes.

Wealth Engagement Specialist

Brian Colan is often one of the first friendly faces new clients meet at Hobart Wealth. As a Wealth Experience Specialist, he is vital in guiding individuals through onboarding and delivering a seamless transition into the Hobart client experience. With a background that includes work as both a mortgage consultant and a registered nurse, Brian brings unique empathy, listening, and problem-solving skills.

He works closely with the firm’s Wealth Engagement Leader to ensure each new relationship is built on trust and clarity. Brian believes that financial planning should feel approachable, not intimidating. “Helping people move forward with confidence is at the heart of everything I do,” he says.

When not at work, Brian enjoys golfing, skiing, and relaxing at home with his wife, Caitlin, their dog, Luca, and their two cats, Scottie and Valentino. Inspired by David Goggins’s resilience-focused mindset, Brian lives by the belief that strength starts with mindset.

With seven years of experience in financial services, Joey is dedicated to making clients’ lives easier through financial planning, money movements, beneficiary reviews, and asset allocation. Before joining Hobart Wealth, he was the Head of Financial Planning at a regional RIA Firm. His passion for finance began as a child when a relative explained how stock ownership worked, sparking a lifelong curiosity that led him to a career helping others gain confidence in their financial futures.

He values HW’s meticulous attention to detail, client-first approach, and collaborative team culture. Outside of work, he enjoys running, hiking, watching football, playing fetch with his dog, Lucy, and taking his daughter, Harper, to watch airplanes. He believes that “tough times never last, but tough people do.” To him, Hobart Wealth represents conscientiousness—always striving to do what’s best for clients with care and precision.

Pat Schultz is an accomplished financial professional with a dynamic career spanning over two decades in various financial services organizations. Currently, he serves as the lead Financial Planning and Wealth Strategist at Hobart Wealth in Charlotte, NC. In this role, Pat spearheads the business development strategy and contributes as a key member of the firm’s investment policy committee. Before joining Hobart Wealth, Pat was a Vice President and Advisor Consultant at Neuberger Berman, a renowned global investment management firm. There, he collaborated with hundreds of financial advisors and their clients, driving successful financial outcomes, and nurturing long-term relationships.

A graduate of Binghamton University, Pat showcased his versatility by competing at the Division 1 level in basketball. He further distinguished himself by earning the Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA®) designation from Yale University and becoming a Certified Financial Professional (CFP®). These credentials underscore his dedication to professional excellence and his unwavering commitment to guiding clients through their financial planning journeys. Outside of his professional endeavors, Pat cherishes time with his wife, Caitlin, and their children, Callan, Rory, and Hazel. He finds joy in coaching their teams, playing golf, and exploring new destinations around the globe. Pat’s passion for family, sports, and travel adds a vibrant dimension to his life, making him not only a trusted advisor but also a well-rounded individual.

Paraplanner & Operations Associate

Michaela Snook plays a dual role at Hobart Wealth, supporting the planning and operational teams. As a Paraplanner and Operations Associate, she helps prepare and maintain financial plans, assists with back-office workflows, and ensures that clients receive accurate, timely service.

Michaela earned her bachelor’s degree in Personal Financial Planning from SUNY Alfred State College and achieved her FPQP® designation in May 2025. She joined Hobart in 2024 and quickly became a go-to resource for advisors and clients.

Michaela lives in Charlotte with her fiancé, Jake, and their border collie, Ozzy. She enjoys skiing, Pilates, and planning their upcoming wedding in May 2026.

Chief Bark-eting Officer

Affectionately known as “Winnie,” Winston is Hobart Wealth’s official greeter and Chief Bark-eting Officer. With his signature tail wag and adorable face, this miniature dachshund brings daily joy and levity to the office.

Winnie takes his role seriously, whether welcoming clients, lounging in sunbeams, or reminding the team to take well-deserved breaks. He remains bullish on Bully Sticks and frequently holds long meetings in his favorite window seat.

A true ambassador of Hobart hospitality, Winston proves that the best teams work hard, play hard, and always make room for belly rubs.

Wealth Advisor

With over five decades of experience, Jock Tonissen is a trusted voice of wisdom for Hobart Wealth’s high-net-worth clients. He founded Navigator Financial in 2001 and merged with Hobart Financial Group in 2013, bringing a deep commitment to relationship-based planning.

Jock works closely with business owners and individuals on retirement plans, executive benefits, and long-term investment strategies. His philosophy emphasizes trust, clarity, and a steady long-term outlook. “Great planning comes from understanding the client and making decisions based on who they are, not just what they have.”

Jock is a graduate and former trustee of The University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, and remains active in alum leadership. He lives in Charlotte with his wife, Anne, and is a proud father and grandfather. A lifelong learner, he enjoys reading, gardening, and his favorite game of golf.

Digital Brand Strategist

As Hobart Wealth’s Digital Brand Strategist, Amy Vitale helps shape the firm’s online presence. Drawing from her entertainment and public speaking background, she brings energy and creativity to social content, digital campaigns, and brand messaging.

Before entering her current role, Amy was Hobart’s front desk warm voice and welcoming face. Now, she channels that same approachability into building connections with clients and the community through digital platforms.

She lives with her husband and two lively Chihuahuas, Gringo and Geraldo Rivera (yes, named after the talk show host). Amy is always up for a gym session, a new coffee spot, or a fresh sushi roll.

Client Service & Operations Specialist

Kelly got her start in financial services in 2012, working alongside her father. Upon her father’s retirement, Kelly joined the Hobart team and has since expanded her knowledge to included operations in addition to client service. As a client service & operaƟons specialist she handles a variety of tasks, including servicing client accounts, making sure new accounts are set up properly, handling portfolio updates and trading client accounts.

After graduating from college, Kelly saw an opportunity to help people and work with her father. “I enjoy knowing that we’re helping take some of the pressure off of people’s shoulders,” she said. “Retirement can be a very scary transition. I love having the opportunity to meet and talk to so many folks about their lives.”

Kelly holds her life and health insurance licenses in North Carolina and her Medicare Supplement and Long-Term Care licenses. She has also passed her Series 65 securities exam. She is a graduate of North Carolina State University’s College of Textiles, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Fashion Textile Management.

Kelly lives with her cat, her dog, a ball python, and hundreds of houseplants. She’s an avid gardener and cook and loves to spend time checking out new breweries with friends. She can never get enough of the outdoors – doing everything from camping/hiking/backpacking to kayaking and paddleboarding. She also enjoys traveling when she can spare the time away from home.

Client Service Specialist

Nancy Klug combines a love of numbers with a passion for service in her role as Client Service Specialist. With decades of experience in the financial industry, she supports Hobart Wealth clients by assisting advisors, prepping for meetings, and ensuring requests are handled smoothly.

Nancy has always gravitated toward financial work. “I’m a numbers person at heart,” she says. However, what she values most is the opportunity to help people. “I love building relationships, identifying needs, and being part of the solution.”

Nancy and her husband, Ken, enjoy family time with their adult children and grandson, Vincent. She stays active through tennis and travel.

Client Service Specialist

Doris Castelluzzo brings over 25 years of insurance experience as a Client Service Specialist at Hobart Wealth. From her early days at Prudential to managing complex cases at CRUMP/Truist, Doris has long believed in the importance of thoughtful planning, particularly when protecting families through insurance.

At Hobart, she works closely with advisors and clients to ensure that service requests, paperwork, and follow-up items are handled efficiently and carefully. Doris holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from SUNY Stony Brook and the FPQP® designation.

She is a firm believer in the power of preparation. “Life insurance isn’t just about policies – it’s about protecting people,” she says.

Outside of work, Doris enjoys hiking, interior design, and cooking. She also loves spending time with her son, Justin.

Client Service Specialist

Dean has had a long career in financial services. He started as an entry-level cashier in 1985, accepting deposits and bonds. He then moved to become a wire operator, where he transmitted trades direct to the trading floor. The new role sparked a passion for learning more about investing and planning.

Dean worked his way through the ranks and eventually spent 12 years at Morgan Stanley as a registered service associate. While there, his duties included setting up new accounts, overseeing transfers and trading. Now, he brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his role as Client Services Specialist at Hobart Wealth.

Dean and his wife, Tami, have a grown daughter, Lacey, and a granddaughter, Emmy. Dean and Tami enjoy cooking together and trying out new recipes. The two are also avid gardeners; they have planted several trees and love seeing the flowers bloom in their flower beds

Wealth Advisor

Nick Adkins brings a servant’s mindset and a mission-driven approach to his role as a Wealth Advisor. With a background in military service and experience at Raymond James, Nick is driven by the belief that financial advice should be clear, relevant, and rooted in genuine care for others.

He guides clients through every stage of planning, from building personalized portfolios to crafting tax-conscious retirement strategies. However, for Nick, the work is always personal. “I love helping people gain confidence in an area that often feels uncertain. Financial planning isn’t just about money, it’s about unlocking peace of mind.”

Nick values intellectual humility and continuous learning. A favorite quote of his is, “Those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.” That philosophy guides how he approaches both planning and life.

Nick lives in North Carolina with his wife, Alex, their daughter, Hazel, their son, Luke, and their beloved dog, Salem. Outside work, he enjoys weightlifting, beach time, and casting a line on the water.

Chief Operating Officer

Investment Policy Committee
Leadership Team

Bob Barton’s career path is anything but linear, and that’s precisely what makes him a dynamic and versatile leader at Hobart Wealth. As Chief Operating Officer, Bob oversees day-to-day operations, ensuring that internal systems, team processes, and client experiences run at a best-in-class level. His mission is simple but powerful: create a seamless and elevated experience for clients and colleagues.

His professional background is richly diverse, ranging from Army officer to pastor, church planter, corporate trainer, and even a stint at Pfizer. But a unifying thread runs through it all: Bob has always been committed to building people-centered plans and helping others move confidently toward their goals. He sees his role in operations as an extension of that purpose — stewarding systems that protect what clients have worked so hard to build.

Bob was drawn to Hobart Wealth by its culture of excellence, humility, and heart. “When great people are doing wonderful things for amazing clients, it’s a joy,” he says. Outside of work, Bob enjoys spending time with his wife, Pam, and their son, Billy. He also finds joy in teaching, remodeling, hunting, and playing competitive Pickleball.

Executive Assistant & Event Coordinator

Leadership Team

Kim Collins is the logistical heart of Hobart Wealth. As Executive Assistant and Event Coordinator, she keeps the firm’s operations running like clockwork, managing Chris Hobart’s ever-changing calendar, planning company-wide events, and ensuring the office stays polished, professional, and client-ready.

Kim’s background is as varied as it is vibrant. She’s worked as a cosmetologist, cemetery manager, fire educator, and fire instructor, and she even coordinated events for a wealth management firm in Florida before relocating to Charlotte. This unique blend of experience gives her a broad perspective, a calm demeanor under pressure, and a laser-sharp eye for detail.

At Hobart Wealth, Kim is known for her warmth, efficiency, and ability to make everyone feel welcome. She lives in Ballantyne with her daughter, Hannah, and their high-energy pup, Dash (short for Kardashian). When she’s not managing logistics, you’ll likely find her enjoying North Carolina’s wine country, hosting friends, or volunteering in her community.

Director of Insurance Planning

As the Director of Insurance Planning, Jonathan helps clients understand the important role insurance plays in their retirement, tax and legacy planning. He partners with advisors to create tailored insurance plans to protect clients from potential risks they may face during both their working and retired years.

Jonathan brings more than 15 years of experience in insurance planning to the Hobart Wealth team. His passion in the field was spurred after watching three of his grandparents struggle with Alzheimer’s and dementia diagnoses and seeing the toll a long-term health crisis can take on family members. He was inspired to help other families protect against similar situations through proper insurance planning.

Outside of work, Jonathan enjoys swimming and biking with his bonus son Logan and wife Jen. Jonathan is into anything sports-related, particularly golf, and is an active leader of Freedom House Church in Cornelius. Traveling, working out, and playing cards are some of his and Jen’s favorite times together.

Lead Investment Strategist

Investment Policy Committee
Leadership Team
Trading Team Lead

As Hobart Wealth’s Lead Investment Strategist, Jacob Woodrum brings analytical rigor and forward-thinking leadership to the firm’s investment process. He oversees the trading team, chairs the Investment Policy Committee, and bridges research and real-world application, translating complex market trends into practical, client-focused solutions.

Jacob holds both the CFA® and CFP® designations – a combination that reflects his mastery of portfolio management, financial planning, and ethical practice. With a sharp understanding of macroeconomic conditions and market behavior, he guides the firm’s investment philosophy with clarity and consistency.

At the heart of Jacob’s approach is a steady, long-term mindset. He believes successful investing is not about reacting, but about planning. “My job is to remove emotion from the equation and focus on what works,” he says. “Markets evolve, but principles endure.”

He lives in Charlotte with his wife, Allie, and their two young sons. Jacob says Parenthood has deepened his appreciation for long-term planning: “I want to show my kids how to build something meaningful over time, just like we do for our clients.”

Senior Wealth Advisor

Investment Policy Committee

Andrew Greer has a gift for helping clients see the big picture while honoring every detail along the way. As a Senior Wealth Advisor and member of the Investment Policy Committee, he develops customized strategies for retirement income, tax planning, and succession. He also collaborates with CPAs and attorneys to ensure a comprehensive experience for each client.

Andrew has been part of the Hobart Wealth team since 2010, and his connection to clients runs deep. “Retirement isn’t just a permanent vacation; it’s a huge shift in how people relate to their money. That can be exciting and terrifying. We’re here to walk beside them with both strategy and heart.”

His favorite part of working at Hobart is its family-first culture. “Clients become like family, and the team operates that way, too. It’s a place where people do the right thing simply because it’s right.”

Andrew lives in Charlotte with his wife, Leslie-Ann, and their children, Easton and Isla. On weekends, he coaches youth sports, hikes the Carolinas, and cheers on the Panthers.

Peter is charged with overseeing the Hobart Wealth Client Services team. In his role, he works directly with advisors to get answers to clients’ questions and makes sure every client request is handled quickly and accurately.

Peter brings more than a decade of knowledge and experience to his role. Before joining Hobart Wealth, he worked at Axos Advisor Services (formerly E*Trade Advisor Services), where he worked with six investment advisor firms with more than $2.5 billion in assets under contract. During that time, he gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in resolving client issues and cultivating strong client relationships.

The attention to relationships is what drew Peter to Hobart Wealth. “The relationships that exist here are amazing,” he said. “People care about their clients and coworkers, and it shows. I really enjoy how everyone works hard for our clients.”

Away from work, Peter enjoys outdoor activities like camping in the mountains and swimming at the beach.

Fintech Administrator
Leadership Team

Wendy Casale believes preparation is the key to success in work and life—an outlook that makes her the perfect fit as Fintech Administrator. In her role, Wendy handles all things techrelated for the firm, including client and advisor support, system management, and process documentation. She’s always making sure we’re using the right tech tools to give clients the best experience possible when accessing and managing their accounts.

Wendy’s interest in the financial services industry was piqued during her very first college class, which led her to courses about economics, personal finance, and marketing. Discussions about the potential retirement crisis facing Americans today and the importance of taking charge of your own retirement inspired her to pursue a career helping people plan for their future and make a positive impact on their financial picture.

Before joining the Hobart Wealth team, Wendy gained a wealth of experience working at Vanguard and Wells Fargo. Hobart Wealth “feels like a family,” she said. “If a team member sees that a process can be done better, opinions and ideas are genuinely heard.” Wendy and her husband, Bobby, have three children, Victoria, Allison, and Mila. The family loves visiting Freedom Park/Carowinds in the summer, as well as trying new Charlotte restaurants and checking out live bands throughout the year.

Finance Officer

Leadership Team

Behind Hobart Wealth’s steady operations is Renee Hobart, who brings analytical precision and a heart for community. As Finance Officer, she handles office accounting and contributes to the firm’s philanthropic efforts, ensuring the business runs smoothly while making a meaningful impact beyond the office walls. Along with her work as Finance Officer, Renee is a key member of the HR team and supports the hiring efforts for the business.

Renee’s professional journey began in science. She started her career as an analytical chemist at Merck, eventually transitioning into pharmaceutical sales, where she educated healthcare providers on complex medical products. That foundation in science and client service now informs her work at Hobart Wealth, where she supports a team committed to doing what’s right for every client.

For Renee, Hobart Wealth is more than a business; it’s a mission she believes in deeply. “Even though I work behind the scenes, I love watching our team serve with sincerity and excellence,” she says. “It’s meaningful to know we’re making a real difference.”

Outside of work, Renee is an avid supporter of the performing arts and regularly volunteers with the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center. She enjoys traveling, spending time with her husband, Chris, and their daughters, Sloane and Blythe, and cheering for the Carolina Panthers on Sundays.

Chief Compliance Officer

Leadership Team

Thomas Hamilton joined Hobart Wealth in 2018 with a personal mission: to help others avoid the kind of financial missteps that once cost his family dearly. After his parents were hit with a major, unexpected tax bill due to poor financial advice, Thomas pivoted into financial services to ensure others could access better, more trustworthy guidance.

Today, as Chief Compliance Officer, Thomas manages the firm’s compliance program and supports HR, trading, database management, and technology systems. His experience in the industry dates back to 2005 and brings depth and reliability to Hobart Wealth’s infrastructure. He thrives in the firm’s team-oriented culture, where opinions matter and clients remain at the heart of every decision. “There’s no corporate red tape here, just good people doing good work.”

Thomas lives in Charlotte with his wife, Jessica, their two children, Caleb and Shelby, and their dog, Albus. He’s passionate about family time, cooking, gardening, music, and binge-watching with his crew. A curious tinkerer at heart, he’s constantly exploring how things work, whether it’s tech tools or new flavors in the kitchen.

Director of Financial Planning

Senior Wealth Advisor
Leadership Team

Corey Sunstrom brings depth and intention to his role as Director of Financial Planning and Senior Wealth Advisor. With a calm, insightful presence, Corey helps clients navigate the complexities of financial planning with clarity and confidence. He specializes in developing tax-efficient retirement income strategies, coordinating estate and beneficiary planning, and integrating long-term goals into every facet of a client’s financial life.

Corey’s passion for planning was sparked early but solidified after his first post-college job, when he realized how overwhelming money decisions could be without proper guidance. That realization fuels his work today: empowering clients to take control of their future, reduce stress, and make choices that align with what truly matters.

While Corey thrives on strategy, he most values the human side of planning. “We hear stories of love, loss, perseverance, and joy. That trust is a privilege,” he says. “Our job is more than numbers; it’s about walking alongside people during some of life’s most meaningful moments.”

Corey and his wife, Lizy, and their newborn daughter, Emerson (Emmy), live in Charlotte with their retriever, Luna. An avid hiker and photographer, Corey finds inspiration outdoors and often brings his camera along to capture life’s small wonders.

Founder & CEO

Investment Policy Committee
Leadership Team

Chris Hobart has never been one to follow a conventional path — not in life, and certainly not in financial planning. His entrepreneurial spirit sparked early (at age nine, he launched a restaurant in his parents’ basement), and it’s that same drive that led him to create Hobart Wealth, a firm committed to delivering honest, personal, and, above all, impactful financial guidance.

Chris believes financial planning should be about more than numbers, it should empower people to live life fully and purposefully. That mission has guided him for over two decades and earned him national media recognition from outlets such as CNBC, CBS, The Wall Street Journal, and USA Today. Whether mentoring clients or fellow advisors, Chris is passionate about providing strategies that are as practical as visionary.

Beyond the office, Chris and his wife, Renee, share a deep love for the performing arts and actively support arts education in Charlotte. He also previously served on the board of Junior Achievement of Central Carolinas, an organization aligned with his passion for financial literacy. When he’s not leading Hobart Wealth, Chris often travels with his daughters, Sloane and Blythe, fly fishing, or tending to his koi pond, accompanied by Winston, the family’s miniature dachshund and Chief Bark-eting Officer.