I believe that the key to building a successful financial journey starts with understanding your vision of the future, and together with regular communication, the latest technology, and awareness of market trends, forging a powerful and personalized financial strategy. I’m very passionate about the idea that by planning for tomorrow together, we can clear the path of obstacles like stress and impulsive decisions, and focus today on the dream of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
My own client experience with financial planning, as well as the financial journeys of my family and closest friends over the last decade, motivated me to become a Wealth Advisor in 2011. Recognizing the strength in presenting a team approach to strategic planning, I combined my practice with the practice of Chris Urness in 2012. Prior to becoming a Wealth Advisor, I had an extensive leadership career in the business world, training teams that were designing strategies around corporate technology services. As it was then, my best skill continues to be breaking-down complex concepts and educating others using meaningful, common sense methods. It is my purpose to understand all the details of a scenario and help translate; I aim to help cut through the noise, mitigate frustrations with all the news headlines of our convoluted markets, and answer the questions that really matter to you and your family.
Specialties:
RETIREMENT INCOME: developing optimal strategies for social security, pensions, and investment distributions throughout the retirement journey.
INVESTMENT PLANNING: developing appropriate risk-based portfolios in a complex global environment. Investment strategies must be constantly monitored and adjusted as dynamic situations evolve.
TAX ANALYSIS: analyzing and understanding the tax consequences of various investment products, strategies, and distributions.
ESTATE/LEGACY PLANNING: discussing appropriate strategies to plan for, seek to protect, and preserve your estate.
RISK MANAGEMENT/INSURANCE PLANNING: analyzing the appropriate amount and type of insurance protection throughout the journey.
Education and Experience:
- FOCALPOINT WEALTH MANAGEMENT – Present
VP of Operations / Wealth Advisor - WADDELL & REED, INC. – 2011-2016
Financial Advisor - LAMAR UNIVERSITY, Beaumont, Texas
Computer Science, Business Management & Entrepreneurship
Family Hobbies and Community:
Mark is originally from Southeast Texas, and met his wife Alexis, an educator, in San Antonio, relocating to Phoenix, Arizona in 2010. Together they have six children. Mark enjoys reading, live theater, online gaming, cooking, grilling & BBQ, watching science fiction shows and movies, listening to classic rock and metal music, and being a proud Dad while supporting his children’s various activities.
Mark regularly teaches a High School Financial Planning Program to students at area high schools. He has also served on the Board of Directors for Valley Youth Theatre, an award-winning theatre company dedicated to helping young people achieve their full potential through meaningful engagement, education, and excellence in the performing arts.
Mark also volunteers as a Den Leader in his sons' scouting pack, Cub Scout Pack 335.
Certification:
- Holds FINRA Series 7, 63 registrations through LPL Financial and Series 65 registration through Wealthcare Advisory Partners.
- Licensed to work in AZ, KS, TX, UT, and WA.
