Broker Check

Meet the Team

Where We Treat Our Clients

Like Family

At JWC Wealth, we understand how important your hard-earned wealth is and never take it for granted. Communication is prioritized among clients in order to make investing very easy to understand, every step of the way.

Your JWC Wealth Management Team

Santo Montalbano CRPC®, APMA®

Founder | Managing Partner

8137256061

santo@jwcwealth.com

I founded JWC Wealth with a simple but powerful belief: clients deserve clarity, confidence, and freedom when it comes to their financial lives. After a long career as an executive at Wall Street firms, I saw firsthand how conflicts of interest can get in the way of truly serving clients. I knew there was a better way—one centered entirely on the client, not products, quotas, or corporate agendas.

JWC Wealth was built to deliver a truly world-class experience grounded in transparency, thoughtful planning, and long-term relationships. We believe time is our most precious asset, and our work is focused on helping clients make confident financial decisions so they can spend more time living life on their terms. I often ask clients, “If you were given a week to live, how would you live it?” Our role is to help ensure their finances support that answer—today and well into the future.

Prior to founding JWC Wealth, I held senior leadership roles at national financial services firms, including Ameriprise Financial Services, where I frequently spoke at industry conferences on financial planning, investment management, and practice leadership. That experience continues to shape how we build our firm and advocate for our clients.

My professional registrations include Series 7, 24, 63, and 65. I also hold the Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor™ (CRPC®) and Accredited Portfolio Management Advisor® (APMA®) designations, maintain Life, Health, and Variable Annuity licenses with the state of Florida, and am registered in all 50 states. I have been recognized with the Circle of Success Leadership Award, reflecting my commitment to stewardship—both of the financial services industry and my clients’ wealth.

I live in Lutz, Florida with my wife, Stacie, and we’ve been married for 22 years. We have three children—Sam, Maya, and Lily—and two dogs, Lucky and Bear. Outside of the office, I enjoy playing ice hockey, archery hunting, and fishing.


Liz Leeseberg

Director of Client Services

Liz began her career in Financial Services at Raymond James in 1991, and since that time she has covered many operational areas of the industry, including some areas of Compliance! Liz brings a wealth of industry experience and knowledge, which she uses to provide unrivaled personal service and excellence in everything she does. Liz earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management with a concentration in Finance. In her leisure time, Liz enjoys sporting events and is an avid University of Florida Gator & Tampa Bay Lightning Hockey fan! She also enjoys the performing arts and traveling with her husband Fred.

Daniel MacLean

Senior Wealth Advisor

Daniel “Danny” Maclean is a fiduciary and Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) and Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist® (CRPS®) who works with families, individuals, businesses, and business owners to help them achieve their unique definitions of success. By combining deep listening with advanced financial planning tools, investment strategies, and industry resources, he creates tailored plans designed to help clients make informed decisions with clarity and confidence.

Danny’s interest in investing began with a middle school assignment and quickly developed into a lifelong career path. Over time, he discovered that his greatest fulfillment came from the human side of financial planning—helping people navigate important life decisions and moments with greater confidence.

This passion led him to earn his CFP® designation, pursue advanced training as a Level II candidate in the Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) program, and obtain the CRPS® designation. Through the CRPS® program, Danny works with business owners and organizations to design, implement, and manage retirement plans that support employee retention, align with company goals, and balance cost efficiency with fiduciary responsibility.

With more than 18 years of experience in the financial industry—including time as a Vice President at Morgan Stanley—Danny now serves as an independent advisor with JWC Wealth Management. He is motivated by seeing clients reach meaningful milestones, from sending children to college to enjoying fulfilling retirements and protecting family wealth.

Outside of work, Danny enjoys staying active through golf and spending time with his nieces, one of his greatest personal priorities. He frequently participates in charity physical challenges and golf scrambles and makes it a point to take at least one adventurous trip each year. A Master Mason (Third Degree), he is also active in the Egypt Shrine and is a Colonel of the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels. Among his roles at the Shrine, he has served as President of the Midget Motors—meaning he is one of the dedicated members who wears a fez and drives a tiny car in holiday parades.

 

Michael Palmer

Senior Wealth Advisor

Michael Palmer is a Senior Wealth Advisor at JWC Wealth. In 2004, he began his career by partnering with his father, Bruce, to establish Palmer Financial, LLC, driven by a shared commitment to improving lives through comprehensive financial planning. He brings extensive experience in helping clients pursue their long-term goals, with a focus on understanding individual needs, managing risk thoughtfully, and attending to important details.

Mike finds great fulfillment in serving as both a financial professional and a teacher/coach, guiding clients who are actively building a stronger future for themselves and their families. In 2022, he chose to merge with JWC Wealth after recognizing the profound impact of the firm's Clarity, Confidence, Freedom approach on clients' lives. A graduate of Allegheny College with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Mike resides in Fairview, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Michelle, and their two sons, Brady and Bennett. In his free time, he enjoys coaching high school water polo, playing tennis, and watching football.

Curtis Cloke CLTC, LUTCF, RICP

Senior Wealth Advisor

I began my career in the financial services industry in 1987, and from the start, my heart was driven by a deep desire to serve my clients with excellence and integrity. In 1999, my mission expanded—from serving clients locally to helping individuals and training advisors across the nation and around the world. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of speaking on international stages, developing curriculum for The American College, and dedicating my work to being a “ferocious consumer advocate”. In March of 2025, I was blessed to be inducted into the Financial Hall of Fame with a Lifetime Achievement Award. My purpose is clear: to positively impact as many lives as possible through sound, trustworthy financial guidance—and to ensure every client walks away with advice they can truly rely on.

Robert Fourman CFP®,EA

Wealth Advisor

Financial and Tax advisor/analyst.  I work to develop comprehensive retirement planning solutions for our clients, including detailed portfolio and income tax recommendation. As an Enrolled Agenet with the IRS, I also assist clients in tax filing, as well as represent them in any issues they may have with the IRS including appeals and amended returns. In addition to being an Enrolled agent of the IRS, I am also a Certified Financial Planner and a series 7 licensed securities advisor. 

Steve Wright

Senior Wealth Advisor

Steve Wright’s journey to financial advising is rooted in humble beginnings and shaped by a lifelong commitment to hard work and perseverance. Raised in the West End of Louisville, Kentucky, Steve grew up watching his mother walk to work each day to support their family, instilling in him the value of dedication and resilience. From his father, a police dispatcher and amateur radio operator, Steve developed an appreciation for communication and the ability to connect with others.

Steve earned his undergraduate degree from Campbellsville University, where he was mentored on the importance of integrity and discipline, and later received his master’s degree from Murray State University, where he was encouraged to think big and pursue opportunities beyond his circumstances.

He began his career at Humana in the corporate office, gaining valuable experience in finance and operations. However, driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, Steve went on to build and successfully sell a chain of childcare centers before pursuing farming full-time. While that venture proved challenging, it ultimately led him to discover his true calling in financial advising in 1997.

Over the past 25+ years, Steve has built a practice centered on helping clients navigate their financial lives with clarity and confidence. He has served hundreds of families across more than 20 states and established offices in Kentucky and Kansas.

In 2025, Steve joined JWC Wealth Management, aligning his client-first approach with a firm that shares his values of transparency, long-term relationships, and thoughtful financial planning.

Outside of the office, Steve enjoys spending time with his wife, Lisa, of over 40 years, their three children, and their growing family of grandchildren.

Isaac Wright CEPA®

Wealth Advisor

Isaac Wright, CEPA®, is a financial advisor who works closely with individuals, families, and business owners to develop comprehensive strategies spanning financial planning, retirement, estate, and exit planning. As a Certified Exit Planning Advisor, he offers specialized guidance through one of the most significant transitions a business owner can face, while also helping clients at every stage build wealth, prepare for retirement, and establish a lasting legacy.

His approach is thoughtful, proactive, and rooted in long-term planning—partnering with clients well in advance of major decisions so they are prepared, confident, and well-positioned when the time comes.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Alejandro Lofaso

Senior Wealth Advisor

Alejandro Lofaso is a dedicated financial advisor with JWC Wealth Management, splitting his time between West Palm Beach, Florida, and Colorado Springs, Colorado. He takes a thoughtful, education-based approach to wealth management, helping clients make confident, informed decisions about their financial futures. Alejandro began his career in education, working with the Sedona Unified Oak-Creek School District and the Jefferson County School District. That background shaped his ability to listen carefully, explain complex topics clearly, and build strong relationships — qualities that continue to define his work with clients today.

At JWC Wealth Management, Alejandro focuses on developing personalized financial strategies that align with each client’s goals, values, and lifestyle. He holds his Series 7, 66, and Life & Annuity licenses and is registered to provide advisory and investment services throughout Florida and beyond. His practice emphasizes clarity, transparency, and proactive planning — ensuring clients understand not only the recommendations being made but also the rationale behind them.

Known for his calm, approachable demeanor and deep sense of integrity, Alejandro is committed to helping individuals and families build, preserve, and transfer wealth across generations. Whether guiding clients toward a secure retirement, structuring investment portfolios, or coordinating comprehensive financial plans, he provides thoughtful advice grounded in experience, education, and genuine care for those he serves.

Saralyn Rickman

Senior Wealth Advisor

With over 35 years of experience in the financial industry, Saralyn began her career immediately after earning a Bachelor of Science in Finance. She started at an accounting firm on Wall Street in New York, then entered the management training program at First Union Bank. There, she built a strong clientele within the professional and medical communities, which led to her appointment as Senior Vice President and Retail Sales Manager at SouthTrust Bank. In that role, she was responsible for overseeing 38 branch locations across the state of Florida.

In the late 1990s, Saralyn transitioned into independent financial services. She is now the President of Capital Financial Opportunities, an independent financial firm partnered with JWC Wealth Management, a full-service wealth management and planning firm. This partnership enables Saralyn to offer clients highly customized financial strategies with access to a full suite of investment products and expert resources.

Saralyn’s interdisciplinary background allows her to take a comprehensive and realistic approach to financial planning. She focuses on five key areas: wealth generation, wealth protection, wealth preservation, wealth transfer, and wealth distribution. Known for her attention to detail and deeply personal client service, Saralyn is committed to helping clients achieve their goals with care and integrity.

Bill Meador

Senior Wealth Advisor

I love being a Financial Advisor and National Social Security Advisor, helping people accomplish their goals and plans for Retirement and their future.  I earned a bachelor’s degree from Kansas State University and hold a Series 65 securities license to help clients with their stock market investments, and a Life and Health Insurance license in Kansas and Missouri to help clients with Safe Money savings, Life Insurance, and Long-Term Care Insurance protection.  In my spare time I enjoy taking piano lessons, the Kansas City Chiefs, my two cats, and spending time with my girlfriend, family, and friends.

Brian Groh

Senior Wealth Advisor

Brian Groh has over 25 years of financial industry experience. Brian specializes in working with business owners, professionals, and retirees. His professionalism, honesty, and integrity are complemented by a warm endearing personality. He places great emphasis on asking thoughtful questions and engaging in meaningful conversations. He believes in educating his clients as well as in keeping an open line of communication with them.

Brian is a graduate of Pennsylvania State University. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance. He holds his Series 7, 63, and 66 licenses. Brian is an Accredited Investment Fiduciary, AIF®, an Accredited Asset Management Specialist, AAMS®, a Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist CRPS®, and a Certified National Social Security Advisor, NSSA®.

Alexandra Groh M.S., CFP®

Senior Client Service Specialist

Alexandra Groh is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional with over 10 years of financial industry experience. She enjoys working with her team and leveraging their combined expertise in a way that allows them to best serve and educate valued clients. She believes in helping others plan and prepare for long and short term personal and financial objectives and goals.

Alexandra is a graduate of the University of Maryland, Summa Cum Laude and a member of the National Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi.  She received her Master of Science with Distinction from The New York Institute of Technology. She holds her series 7 and 66 licenses and has earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIALPLANNER™ (CFP®) designation.

Laura Clark-Brown

Private Wealth Advisor

248-625-4700

laura@jwcwealth.com

Laura Clark-Brown is a Private Wealth Manager at JWC Wealth Management with more than 20 years of experience helping individuals and families clarify their financial goals and build strategies designed to preserve and grow their wealth over time. She founded Successful Equity Management, Inc. in August 2000 and built her practice on a disciplined work ethic, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to client service.

Laura has been affiliated with J.W. Cole for approximately five years and now works as part of the JWC Wealth team, where she combines her independent, client-first approach with the expanded resources, technology, and support of a larger firm. Her primary role is to serve as a trusted financial coach—helping clients coordinate the many moving parts of their financial lives and ensuring that each decision supports their long-term objectives.

Her practice is especially focused on retirees and individuals approaching retirement who are concerned about income planning, portfolio management, and the preservation of their wealth. Laura works closely with managed account providers such as Clark Capital and has extensive experience with annuities, distribution strategies, and required minimum distribution planning. She is known for regularly reviewing client strategies and making thoughtful adjustments as goals, markets, and life circumstances change.

Clients often describe Laura as steady, direct, and genuinely caring. Many have worked with her for years and across generations, taking comfort in her experience, responsiveness, and service-oriented approach. By joining JWC Wealth, Laura has intentionally surrounded her clients with a broader team of planning, service, and operational professionals—ensuring consistent support and clear communication without losing the personal relationships she values.

Laura was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and has resided in Michigan since 1992, where she maintains her primary office. She is married, has two adult children, and is a proud grandmother of five. Family plays a central role in how she views planning and legacy. Outside of work, Laura enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and continuing to learn through platforms like MasterClass.

Hunter McCarthy

Wealth Advisor

Nicholas Adams

Wealth Advisor

Nick Adams is a Wealth Advisor at JWC Wealth Management with six years of experience helping clients navigate retirement planning and comprehensive wealth management. Holding Series 6, 63, and 65 licenses, Nick takes a holistic and simplified approach to financial planning, aiming to make the process less overwhelming and more empowering. He’s passionate about helping individuals and families feel confident and secure about their financial futures. Outside the office, Nick channels his entrepreneurial spirit into his craft beer business, Fueled By Hops, where he blends creativity with community.

 

Ethan Nuebling

Wealth Advisor

Ethan Nuebling is a Customer Relationship Manager at JWC Wealth Management with over two years of experience in the financial services industry. Prior to Joining JWC Wealth Management, Ethan worked at J.W. Cole Financial in the Compliance Department where a foundational understanding of industry regulation and financial planning was developed. Ethan earned his bachelor’s degrees from the University of South Florida in Accounting and Personal Financial Planning. In his free time, Ethan enjoys cheering on his local Tampa sports teams. He also enjoys spending time with his three dogs and exercising.

Michele Gebhardt

Office Manager

Michele started her career in the financial industry in 2002, beginning as a receptionist and quickly moving up into office management, and currently is the Office Manager in the Burlington Office. Her professional registrations include her SIE, Series 6 and 63 security licenses, as well as her Iowa Life and Health Insurance license. With her years of experience, Michele provides various expertise in the daily operations of the office and the financial industry. She enjoys learning and staying up to date on the latest news and rules in the industry.

In her spare time, she enjoys traveling with her husband and spending time with their family and friends.

Julie Morrow

Client Service Manager

Julie Morrow is the Client Service Manager at The Wright Legacy Group/JWC Wealth KY Office engaging with clients in a professional and approachable manner to support their financial needs. Julie has over 47 years of experience in the financial field, including 20 years as a Bank Officer while completing the Graduate School of Banking program at the University of Virginia.

Clients appreciate her focused approach by providing knowledgeable support, and clear, timely communication to promptly resolve questions and issues.

Outside of work, Julie enjoys being a sports Mamaw, shopping, and family trips.

Jess Farber

Client Service Manager

Always eager to learn and surpass expectations, Jess ensures that JWC Wealth clients have a world class experience. Prior to joining JWC Wealth, Jess ran the front office of a surgical podiatrist’s office in Scranton, PA, and transitioned to Florida to spend more time with her husband Matt and her four children Nicholas, Nathan, Elizabeth, and Emmitt. Jess and her family have a 2 Great Danes named Blu and Jack . In her personal life she is a self-proclaimed Harry Potter nerd, and loves to read and spend time outside.

 

Brittny Olson

New Business Manager

As the New Business Manager, I’m here to make the process of completing paperwork and processing your business smooth and enjoyable. Not only am I here to help with the new paperwork process but I continue to service and provide clarity on your investments by preparing account reviews, hosting in-person meetings and handling service calls to answer any questions you have while being a valued client. Seeing people’s money work for them in the way they desire and knowing I played a part in that is the reason I love doing what I do. Clients’ satisfaction and positivity is what I strive to provide. Being in the community I was born and raised in and seeing people be financially successful is something I hope to continue to witness for many years to come.

I received my bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University in 2010 graduating with honors receiving a degree in Merchandising with a secondary in Consumer Behavior & Marketing. Shortly after graduating I entered the financial industry and received my Iowa Insurance License allowing me to provide better service for our client’s insurance needs. 

If I’m not at the office, my Husband Seth and I are usually driving our 3 kids (Isla, Silas & Sebastian) around town to their various extracurricular activities or entertaining them in our back yard that consist partly of playing soccer/ baseball games with neighborhood friends. Although we live in a river town my favorite place to be is at a lake usually during our summer vacations.

Brooke Thiel

Client Relationship Manager

Brooke is a Client Relationship Manager at JWC Wealth Management, where she works with advisors to create, implement, and review clients’ financial plans and investment strategies. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Finance from Florida State University and currently holds Series 7, Series 66, and 2-15 Life, Health, and Variable Annuity licenses.

Brooke is passionate about supporting advisors in developing thoughtful, thorough financial plans and investment recommendations that help clients feel confident in their financial security. She takes pride in contributing to work that keeps clients’ best interests front and center. Prior to her current role, she gained experience in account paperwork, money movement, trading, and exemplary client service as a Client Service Coordinator.

Outside of work, Brooke enjoys traveling, trying new restaurants, building LEGO cars, and spending time with her family and friends. If she is not reading, she’s likely working on an art project or attending a concert with friends.

 

 

 

Tyler Pendyck

Client Service Manager

Joelys Castellanos

Client Service Coordinator

Prior to joining JWC Wealth, Joelys built a strong foundation in client service as a lead receptionist at a busy veterinary clinic, where she managed daily operations, coordinated communication, and ensured a welcoming experience for every client. Known for her proactive mindset and collaborative spirit, she is always eager to contribute ideas, support her team, and take on new challenges. Joelys brings that same energy and curiosity into the financial services industry, where she is excited to continue developing her skills and growing her career.

Outside of work, Joelys values quality time with her husband and toddler, who keep her both grounded and inspired. In her free time, she enjoys diving into a good book, exploring her many hobbies, and hosting friends and family—creating meaningful connections both personally and professionally.

Veronica Vazquez

Client Service Coordinator

Veronica brings over 30 years of experience in wealth management and private banking, with a strong focus on delivering exceptional client service and building long-term, trusted relationships. She is dedicated to supporting clients with their financial needs while ensuring a seamless and professional experience at every interaction.

In her role, Veronica oversees the day-to-day operations of the Satellite Beach office and works closely with advisors to support account documentation, meeting coordination, and overall client satisfaction. Known for her collaborative approach and attention to detail, she plays an integral role in maintaining an efficient, client-focused environment and contributing to the continued growth of the office.

Outside of the office, Veronica enjoys following UCF athletics and has a particular interest in studying fighters’ strategies and journeys to success. She is also passionate about interior design and home projects, and enjoys spending time gardening and playing volleyball.

Ambriel Gebhardt

Client Service Coordinator

As a client service coordinator, I work directly with clients to ensure their established investments, investment opportunities and personal questions don’t go unnoticed. I am the first person you will see when you walk into our Burlington office. You will notice, I am consistently talking with clients and companies. My job is to confirm that any changes to the policies are made in a timely manner by all parties. I also ensure that we meet with each client consistency to go over all products and any questions or concerns they may have. I love working with the public and witnessing the growth we offer to all our clients. We get to work with some of the best clients who trust us in knowing we do everything to make their life easier and to ensure a brighter future.

 

I received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Culver Stockton University in 2023. This degree has provided me with the skills to anticipate any needs or questions clients may have and promptly address any issues.

 

When I am not in the office, I am normally spending time with my fiancé Joshua, his daughter Aleena, and our two cats, Toby and Gimli. My favorite outdoor activity to do with my family is fishing but we also enjoy playing board and card games together.

Ryan Robinette

Client Service Coordinator

Ryan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Marketing from Penn State University. Prior to joining JWC Wealth, he built a strong foundation in the banking and financial services industry, gaining valuable experience in client service and strategic business operations. A former collegiate baseball player, Ryan brings the same competitive drive and team-oriented mindset to the professional world. Outside of work, he enjoys attending and watching a variety of sporting events, especially baseball, football, basketball, and hockey.

Joshua Green

Client Service Coordinator

Alison Whiteside

Marketing and Brand Coordinator

Alison serves as the Marketing and Brand Coordinator at JWC Wealth, where she helps shape the firm’s brand and oversee marketing initiatives. With a passion for storytelling and digital media, she creates engaging content that connects with clients and strengthens the firm’s presence across platforms. Alison’s background includes hands-on experience in social media strategy, content creation, and campaign development. Outside of work, she enjoys going to the beach, traveling, and trying new foods.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Morgan Kincade

Client Service Coordinator

Morgan Kincade is a Client Services Coordinator at JWC Wealth, where he supports the team in delivering a seamless and high-quality client experience. In his role, he assists with day-to-day client service needs and works closely with advisors to learn the fundamentals of financial planning and relationship management.

Morgan is currently a senior at the University of South Florida, pursuing a degree in finance. He is passionate about financial planning and values the opportunity to combine his interest in the markets with helping individuals and families improve their financial well-being. Following graduation, he plans to continue developing his expertise with the goal of becoming a financial advisor.

Originally from St. Petersburg, Florida, Morgan enjoys staying active through basketball and working out. In his free time he enjoys spending time outdoors—especially taking walks!

Client Centered

Client Centered

Whether you are investing to build wealth, protect your family, or preserve your assets, our personalized service focuses your needs, wants, and long-term goals.

Our team of professionals have years of experience in financial services. We can help you address your needs of today and for many years to come. We look forward to working with you.