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The SWAG Team

The Strategic Wealth Advisors Group Team™

We’re a collection of experienced financial professionals dedicated to helping you like family.

Our Core Values

At Strategic Wealth Advisors Group, these core values go into each and every financial plan we create.

We Love You Like Family

We Support You Like Family

We Challenge You Like Family

Meet the team

Tim Sullivan

Founder and CEO

Tim Sullivan, NSSA® ChFEBC℠ and FRC℠ is a National Recognized Financial Educator, Author, Retirement Planner, Federal Employee Retirement Specialist, Radio Show host, TV Show Host, whom you may have seen on CBS News, FOX Business, The Wall Street Journal, Kiplinger, Investor’s Business Daily, U.S. News and World Report, and others. Sullivan is the Author of, Retire Abundantly, The Principles to Help Create a More Worry-Free Retirement with Less Stress, Strategic Wealth: A Tactical & Practical Guide to Winning in Retirement, Federal Employee Retirement Made Simple: 11 Key Areas to Retire with Financial Peace as a Federal Employee, Empowering Today’s Women for Tomorrow, Daylana’s Wacky Adventures in the World of Finance, Thriving in Retirement, and a former Radio Show Host on WDTK “The Patriot” FM 101.5/1400 AM in Detroit, Michigan. Tim is also the host of the TV show Retire Abundantly which airs on channel 62 CBS in Detroit. As the founder and CEO of Strategic Wealth advisors Group, Inc. Tim and his team help Federal Employees, Executives, and Professionals successfully navigate the retirement maze of options and regulations so that they can enjoy a larger lifestyle and still pass on legacy to their family. At Strategic Wealth Advisors Group, we believe more than anything that you deserve to feel loved, supported, encouraged, and challenged for greatness by someone who serves you as a leader. Tim enjoys time with his wife Julie and three children Devin, Kaitlynn and Daylana. He also enjoys staying fit at the gym, playing golf and softball.
Bud Eastes headshot

Bud Eastes

Financial Advisor

Bud began his career as an insurance agent with Prudential in 1985. He quickly made a name for himself, earning the prestigious title of Rookie of the Year for the entire Eastern division and a spot at the Million Dollar Round Table. His outstanding performance led to his promotion to Manager.

For the next 18 years, Bud specialized in selling Long-Term Care (LTC) insurance with LTC, Inc. and ACSIA Insurance. His dedication and expertise saw him rise to become the second top agent out of over 400 representatives in his first year. He was then promoted to Regional Manager, overseeing operations in four states. Under his leadership, his region consistently ranked top in production, lead usage, and customer satisfaction.

In 2002, Bud joined Alliance America as the Ohio Manager, expanding his expertise to full financial services. His office earned the Top Office accolade six times, again leading to his promotion to Regional Manager, where he was responsible for 15 states and 20 representatives.

In 2018, Bud further enhanced his qualifications by studying for and obtaining the Retirement Income Certified Planner (RICP) designation from the American College. This advanced training equips him to help both pre-retirees and retirees create sustainable income throughout retirement.

Bud is married to his high school sweetheart, and together they have three grown sons and nine grandchildren. He enjoys life on a small beef cattle farm as well as traveling and hiking.

David Heim

Financial Advisor

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Michael Ayoub​

Owner Of Cranbrook Loans / Mortgage Specialist

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MICHAEL BINGER, CFA®

President of Gradient Investments, LLC

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JEREMY BRYAN, CFA®​

Portfolio Manager of Gradient Investments, LLC​

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MARIANN MONTAGNE, CFA®​

Portfolio Manager of Gradient Investments, LLC

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Financial Advisors

Brandon Ramirez

Financial Advisor

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Hunter MATEER

Financial Advisor

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Jason Recchia

Financial Advisor

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Emily Marzec

Financial Advisor

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Bud Eastes

Financial Advisor

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David Heim

Financial Advisor

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Kenneth Arafat

Financial Advisor

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Marketing & Operations Team

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Jen Gawronski

Director of Client Relations

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Enzo Recchia

Director of Marketing

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Megan Sawicki

Office Manager

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Jennifer Merian

Chief Operations Officer

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Business Development Team

Christina Pehlis

Director of New Business

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Thomas Sanders

New Business

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Caleb Roy

Life Insurance Consultant

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Tammi Heim

Insurance Agent

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Investment and Advanced Planning Team

To help you with investment management and financial planning, we have partnered with Triad Wealth Partners, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (www.triadwealthpartners.com). Triad Wealth works with financial advisors across the country and specializes in investment management research and strategies, advanced planning, and back-office operations. By partnering with Triad Wealth, we’re able to leverage industry leading experience and deliver more value to our clients.

Triad Wealth Partners and Strategic Wealth Alliance Group INC are independent of each other and maintain separate offices.

Scott Rinehart, CPA

President and Chief Wealth Officer

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Mitch Hockenbury

Mitch Hockenbury,
MBA, CFP®, RSSA®, RICP®

Vice President of Wealth Strategy

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David Seufer, CFA®, CFP®

Vice President of Planning

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Brent Coggins, MBA

Chief Investment Officer

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Jackson Sheuputis, CFP®

Sr. Planning Specialist

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Jamie Cinotto

Portfolio Manager

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Blake Matzke

Associate Portfolio Manager

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Our firm may or may not be selected to manage your investment assets. We provide asset management services for certain account types, as determined by your specific financial situation and objectives. In some cases, your assets may be managed by another investment advisory firm or through internal resources. The use of our services as a solution is not guaranteed and is subject to the discretion of your financial advisor.

Schedule a Meeting Today​

Book a meeting and see how we can help you build a retirement rooted in confidence, joy, and doing what you love most!

Brandon Ramirez

Financial Advisor

Brandon is a devoted husband and proud father of two boys who values discipline, growth, and continuous improvement. A former basketball player, he developed a team-first mindset and strong work ethic that continue to guide him today. He enjoys staying active through fitness and golf, where he is constantly working to improve his game. A passionate supporter of Detroit sports teams, Brandon treasures time with his wife and sons and believes family is the foundation of a fulfilling life.

Enneagram Number: 3

Three’s are ambitious, adaptable, and success-driven individuals who value achievement, growth, confidence, and making a meaningful impact.

Hunter Mateer

Financial Advisor

Hunter is a proud Michigan State University graduate and dedicated financial advisor passionate about helping others succeed. She is known for her positive attitude, caring personality, and ability to build meaningful relationships founded on trust and empathy. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Hunter values the teamwork, resilience, and discipline sports provide. Outside of work, she enjoys the outdoors, new adventures, and time with family and friends. She strives to make a meaningful impact every day.

Enneagram Number: 1

Ones are about improvement. And "right action”, ensuring things are done correctly. They are principled, with clear sense of right and wrong.

Jason Recchia

Financial Advisor

Jason grew up in Shelby Township, Michigan, and graduated from Aurora University, where he played NCAA hockey while earning his degree. His experience as a student-athlete helped develop the discipline, work ethic, and team-first mentality that continue to guide him today. Jason is passionate about building meaningful relationships and helping others succeed. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family, staying active, playing golf, and coaching high school hockey. He is committed to continuous growth, leadership, and serving others.

Enneagram Number: 1

Ones are about improvement. And "right action”, ensuring things are done correctly. They are principled, with clear sense of right and wrong.

Emily Marzec

Financial Advisor

Emily developed a passion for finance at an early age, with math quickly becoming her favorite subject. As a competitive soccer player, she learned discipline, perseverance, and teamwork—qualities that continue to shape how she serves clients today. A graduate of Western Michigan University with a degree in finance, Emily is passionate about helping individuals and families make informed financial decisions. She believes financial literacy is a powerful tool for building confidence, reducing stress, and creating long-term financial success.

Enneagram Number: 1

Ones are about improvement. And “right action”, ensuring things are done correctly. They are principled, with clear sense of right and wrong.

Bud Eastes

Financial Advisor

Bud began his career in the insurance industry in 1985, building a successful career in insurance and financial services while holding leadership roles across multiple states. In 2018, he earned the Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP) designation, further strengthening his focus on helping pre-retirees and retirees create sustainable income strategies. Outside of work, Bud enjoys life on his small beef cattle farm, traveling, and hiking. He and his high school sweetheart have three grown sons and nine grandchildren.

David Heim

Financial Advisor

David Heim has been helping people since 1989 as a financial representative reach their retirement and investment objectives. He obtained a Finance Degree with an emphasis in Investments from Missouri State University while playing football and obtaining All-American honors. David is currently licensed in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Oklahoma. He also holds a Series 65 securities license as an Investment Advisor Representative.

Kenneth Arafat

Financial Advisor

Ken is a relationship-driven professional who is passionate about helping others achieve their goals. With a background in sales, he is known for exceptional client service, strong communication, and building lasting relationships founded on trust and integrity. Outside of work, Ken’s faith, family, and friends are central to his life. He values honesty, service, and compassion, and is committed to helping individuals and families pursue long-term financial confidence while continuing to learn and grow.

Enneagram Number: 3

Three’s are about seeing the work that they do and learn how to do the best job possible in the most efficient way!

Jennifer Gawronski

Director of Client Relations

Balancing work with personal life is essential to Jennifer. She cherishes spending her time with her husband and three college aged busy kids. Her passions include trying new recipes in the kitchen, growing fresh fruits and vegetables in her garden and late-night game night with friends. She is inspired to travel and see the world! She has her sights set on a Mediterranean cruise in the very near future!

Enneagram Number: 2

Two’s want to meet others’ needs in helpful, supportive way. Warm and giving and people-oriented, they seek affirmation from their relationships and are extremely grateful when they feel appreciated.

Enzo Recchia

Director of Marketing

Enzo grew up in Sterling Heights, Michigan, and earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and master’s degree in Professional Communication from Youngstown State University. As Director of Marketing, he combines creativity and strategy to help strengthen connections, support growth, and share SWAG’s mission. Outside of work, Enzo enjoys playing and coaching hockey, golfing, and traveling. He values continuous growth, strong relationships, and making a positive impact both personally and professionally.

Enneagram Number: 8

Eights are forces of nature, with a strong presence and personality that values being in control. They are guarded but caring and protective of those around them.

Megan Sawicki

Office Manager

Megan holds a degree in Business Administration, which has further strengthened her skills in leadership, communication, organization, and business operations. In her current role, she focuses on maintaining efficient office processes, supporting the team, coordinating internal initiatives, and helping create meaningful experiences for SWAG clients.

Outside of the office, Megan’s greatest priority is her son, King. She values spending quality time with him and creating lasting memories together. They enjoy being outdoors, swimming, visiting lakes and waterparks, riding bikes, exploring new places, and finding new activities to experience together.

Megan also enjoys spending time with family and friends and values opportunities to bring people together. Summer is her favorite season, and she especially enjoys warm, sunny days spent outdoors and near the water.

Both personally and professionally, Megan values strong relationships, continued growth, organization, and creating meaningful experiences. She strives to bring a positive and dependable approach to everything she does while making the most of each opportunity along the way.

Enneagram Number: 3

Three's are about seeing the work that they do and learn how to do the best job possible the most efficient way!

Jennifer Merian

Chief Operations Officer

With more than 20 years of experience in financial services, she serves as Director of Operations at Strategic Wealth Advisors Group, where she is passionate about leadership, operational excellence, and building systems that help teams succeed. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband, their blended family of five children, and growing family of grandchildren. She is dedicated to mentoring women in their spiritual journeys and helping them grow with confidence and purpose. In her free time, she enjoys reading, antiquing, hand sculpting with clay, and preparing to build her dream home in the mountains of Northeast Tennessee.

Enneagram Number: 8

Eights are forces of nature, with a strong presence and personality that values being in control. They are guarded but caring and protective of those around them.

Christina Pehlis

Director of New Business

Christina Pehlis grew up in Macomb, MI. Her passion for math and complex problem solving led her to pursue a Finance degree at Western Michigan University, where she graduated in May of 2022. Christina is dedicated to making a difference in people’s lives and committed to helping others reach their goals. She is continually complimented on her positive energy and ability to put a smile on someone’s face.

Enneagram Number: 1

Ones are about improvement. And “right action”, ensuring things are done correctly. They are principled, with clear sense of right and wrong.

Thomas Sanders

New Business

Tom is a lifelong Michigan native from the small town of Yale. He graduated from Grand Valley State University in 2022 and joined SWAG while pursuing his goal of becoming a financial advisor. Outside of work, Tom enjoys golfing, spending time outdoors, and cheering on the Detroit Lions. He’s also a proud Michigan fan, which makes for some friendly rivalry around the office.

Enneagram Number: 1

Ones are about improvement. And "right action”, ensuring things are done correctly. They are principled, with clear sense of right and wrong.

Caleb Roy

Life Insurance Consultant

Caleb is passionate about helping people live their best lives and build confidence in their future. Guided by his faith, he is actively involved in mentoring young adults and serving his church community. He enjoys traveling, exploring new experiences with his wife, Andrea, and spending time with family and friends. Outside of work, Caleb enjoys fitness, outdoor recreation, home projects, and lifelong learning. He is currently pursuing his CFP® designation and is committed to helping clients achieve lasting financial confidence.

Enneagram Number: 8

Eights are forces of nature, with a strong presence and personality that values being in control. They are guarded but caring and protective of those around them.

Tammi Heim

Insurance Agent

Tammi Heim has been helping people in the legal field and with estate planning since 1990. The last few years Tammi has been focused on helping people with their retirement goals along with her husband, David. She currently holds her insurance licenses in Missouri, Arkansas, and Kansas. Together, David and Tammi have over 50 years of experience with assisting clients.

Scott Rinehart, CPA

President and Chief Wealth Officer, Triad Wealth Partners

Scott Rinehart is an accomplished leader in the RIA space with extensive experience in helping advisors and clients navigate complex financial landscapes. As President of Triad Wealth, Scott is responsible for overseeing the firm’s strategic direction and driving its growth by providing comprehensive investment management, technology solutions, and advanced planning to advisors seeking a strategic partner for growth.

Before taking on the role of President, Scott served as Triad’s Chief Planning Officer, where he built the Planning team from the ground up. Under his leadership, the planning team and its offerings grew significantly, and he worked closely with his team to implement the strategies and frameworks that are fundamental to Triad’s planning approach. Scott’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the firm’s ability to deliver a unified planning approach to clients.

Prior to joining Triad, Scott played a key role in the growth of Carlson Financial, helping the firm expand from $70 million to over $300 million in assets under management. During his six years at Carlson, Scott led a team of financial advisors, developed robust financial planning processes, and directly managed a client base of over 200 households. His strategic oversight ensured that the firm maintained a high-touch, holistic approach to wealth management across more than 1,000 client households.

Scott’s career began in corporate finance, where he built a strong foundation in financial strategy, forecasting, and investment management. After earning a degree in Accounting and Finance from Washburn University, he began his career in SEC Reporting and later transitioned to Corporate Finance at Westar Energy (now Evergy), where he supported the Investment Committee, contributed to debt and equity issuances, and provided senior leadership with crucial financial insights. This experience in managing large-scale financial data and strategic decision-making provided a solid foundation for his transition into personal financial planning.

Scott joined Triad Wealth Partners in 2023, bringing a passion for educating advisors and sharing his expertise in tax optimization and retirement planning.

Scott and his wife live in Topeka, Kansas, where they stay busy with their two young children. When he’s not working with advisors or spending time with his family, you can find him enjoying time on the golf course.

Mitch Hockenbury

Mitch Hockenbury, MBA, CFP®, RICP®, RSSA®

Vice President of Wealth Strategy, Triad Wealth Partners

Mitchell (Mitch) Hockenbury is a distinguished financial authority, industry thought leader, and decorated military veteran. As Vice President of Wealth Strategy at Triad Wealth Partners, Mitch plays a pivotal role in advising and equipping financial advisors with the strategies, tools, and insights needed to elevate their practices and maximize client success. His leadership ensures that families and business owners benefit from personalized, tax-efficient planning focused on protecting wealth, optimizing income, and achieving long-term financial goals.

Mitch’s financial career began in 1999, giving him over two decades of experience in wealth management, financial planning, and investment strategy. He has worked as an investment advisor for Ameritrade and Edward Jones, consistently exceeding client expectations and business growth benchmarks. In 2018, he founded 1440 Financial Partners, a firm dedicated to helping families and small businesses achieve financial independence. His expertise spans tax-efficient investing, retirement income strategies, risk management, and Social Security optimization.

A committed lifelong learner, Mitch holds an MBA from the Naval Postgraduate School and a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Banking from the University of Nebraska-Omaha. He has earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®), Retirement Income Certified Professional® (RICP®), and Registered Social Security Analyst® (RSSA®) designations. His thought leadership in financial planning has been featured in MarketWatch, USA Today, CNBC, Forbes, and Barron’s.

Before transitioning to finance, Mitch served with distinction in the Marine Corps and later as an Infantry Officer in the U.S. Army, completing multiple combat tours, including leading the final fighting force out of Iraq in 2011. His military career, marked by numerous commendations, ingrained in him a disciplined, mission-focused approach that he applies to financial planning and leadership.

Mitch is also an award-winning author and international speaker, known for his books Tactical Influence: How I Countered an Insurgency with Words and If I Had Only Known About Money Then: Wisdom That Would Have Saved $1,000,000. He has delivered keynote speeches and financial education sessions to organizations, universities, and professional conferences across the U.S. and internationally.

He resides in Omaha with his wife, daughter, and two pets. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, reading, and continually seeking new ways to empower others in their financial and personal lives.

David Seufer, CFA®, CFP®

Vice President of Planning, Triad Wealth Partners

David Seufer is the VP of Planning supporting advisors in crafting tailored financial plans and strategies that address their clients’ unique needs. His expertise spans retirement income planning, tax-efficient strategies, and investment management.

Before joining Triad Wealth Partners, David founded Gravitas Wealth Planning, where he prioritized delivering clarity and peace of mind to clients navigating the complexities of retirement. In his previous roles, David focused on building and scaling financial planning services and delivering an outstanding client experience.

As both a CFA® charterholder and a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) professional, David combines deep investment expertise with comprehensive financial planning knowledge to deliver exceptional value to clients and advisors alike. When he’s not creating strategies for financial success, David enjoys family time with his wife, toddler, and two dogs. He also enjoys strategy board games, fountain pens, golfing, and everything Formula 1.

Brent Coggins, MBA

Chief Investment Officer, Triad Wealth Partners

As Chief Investment Officer, Brent Coggins leads the overall investment strategy for Triad Wealth Partners, a Registered Investment Adviser (RIA). His approach to holistic investment management leadership and expertise is evident in the strategies built around asset allocation, portfolio construction, security selection, investment research, and trading.

Brent has worked in financial services for his entire career, most recently for a trust and investment management company based in Kansas City. There, he served on the investment leadership team, was the co-chair of the model portfolio committee, and oversaw the fund research team that covered all third-party managed investment products. This platform included traditional assets such as equity and fixed-income strategies, as well as alternatives including hedge funds, private equity, real estate, and venture capital.

Brent received his bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Kansas and his MBA from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Brent and his wife live in the Kansas City area with their two daughters. In their free time, they love spending as much time together outdoors as possible.

Jackson Sheputis, CFP®

Sr. Planning Specialist, Triad Wealth Partners

Jackson Sheputis is a Senior Financial Planning Specialist with Triad Wealth Partners. He specializes in developing personalized financial planning strategies and reports to assist financial advisors in communicating their recommendations with their clients. Jackson believes every client deserves a clear, honest, and detailed review of their financial picture and goals, and he creates plans with this idea in mind from start to finish.

Before joining Triad, Jackson had four years of experience in financial planning within the RIA industry. Prior to that, he received his bachelor’s degree in finance from Valparaiso University. He completed his Series 65 designation in 2021 and received his CFP® certification in 2023.

Jackson lives in Northwest Indiana with his girlfriend Kyra and their two dogs, Rae and Martin. He enjoys golfing, watching sports, and exploring things to do in the Chicago area.

Jamie Cinotto

Portfolio Manager, Triad Wealth Partners

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Blake Matzke

Associate Portfolio Manager, Triad Wealth Partners

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