Portage, MI Fee-Only Financial Advisor | Credent Wealth Management

Layton Ginder, CFP®

Wealth Advisor

Layton Ginder knows that supporting clients throughout all life events — a birth, a graduation, a marriage, a retirement, a death — can make all the difference. He helps hardworking individuals and families prepare and strategize for the future so they can have comfort knowing they will be okay.

Layton earned his bachelor’s in financial counseling and planning from Purdue University and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional. After close to a decade in the financial industry, he has the wisdom and adaptability to help clients achieve financial freedom.

Layton sits on the Executive Committee of the board of the local Big Brothers Big Sisters and serves as the chair of the Resource Development Committee and the chair of the organization’s largest fundraiser — the Brad Miller Gala and Golf Outing. A father, husband, and Northeast Indiana local, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends and being outdoors at his family farm or Lake James.

“Being there to help guide clients through some of the most important and complicated financial events is why I am so passionate about the work we do at Credent!”

What are you most proud of?

Of all the things I have accomplished, I am most proud of my children, Levi, Hank, and Halle.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

The best trip I have taken was when my wife and I traveled to Siesta Key, just the two of us!

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

On my bucket list is to hunt a Yukon Bull Moose with my bow and arrow!

Andy Mayer

Financial Advisor

Andy Mayer is a trusted financial advisor in the Greater Kalamazoo area, helping clients achieve their financial goals through personalized wealth management and financial planning. With 17 years of experience in financial services, he specializes in connecting clients’ investments to their values and guiding them through wealth, legacy, and retirement planning.

Andy holds a bachelor’s degree in business, with a specialty in financial planning. Before Credent, he worked at MainStreet Financial Advisors, where he progressed from intern to Lead Advisor. Andy is passionate about making financial decisions less stressful and giving clients the confidence to choose well.

A lifelong Kalamazoo resident, Andy is actively involved in his community as the Treasurer and a long-time worship team member at his church. Outside of work, he enjoys playing basketball with friends and going on family adventures with his wife and five kids.

“Money discussions can be a source of tension and stress. My desire is to be a source of calm and peace of mind in those decisions.”

What are you most proud of?

I'm most proud of my family and watching them use their unique gifts and personalities to be a light to everyone around them.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

My best trip was to Hawaii with my wife for our one-year anniversary. One of our favorite days of the trip was when we went on an all-day excursion to visit the filming locations of one of our favorite TV shows. We had the opportunity to visit the Kualoa Ranch, where many movies and TV shows have been filmed.

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

I would like to visit all 50 states. I have 14 to go.

Eileen Findley

Client Service Associate

Eileen Findley serves as a Client Service Associate at Credent, supporting financial advisors and clients in the greater Kalamazoo, Michigan, area. She plays an essential role in helping clients pursue financial freedom — coordinating key administrative functions, managing client meeting preparation, and creating an efficient and welcoming environment.

Earlier in her career, Eileen spent over two decades in logistics and operations for the cotton industry in Memphis, Tennessee, where she developed exceptional organizational and project management skills. After relocating to Michigan, she transitioned into the financial industry, eventually working as a Firm Administrator for MainStreet Financial Advisors, which joined Credent in September 2025.

Originally from Memphis, Eileen now resides in Portage, MI, where she enjoys gardening and birdwatching. She's been married to her husband, Mike, for over 20 years, and together they have six children and six grandchildren.

“I have always enjoyed working, especially with a great team. I believe in working hard and accomplishing the goals set before me. I know my contribution to the team has a direct impact on the success of our clients.”

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of being a mom; my oldest son (36) still has me listed in his phone as "Mama Bear". I am proud that through it all, my family leans heavily on each other and, most importantly, on God as our constant.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

Any of our family trips would top my list: Delaware beaches, North Carolina mountains, or camping in Heber Springs, Arkansas. Any time I am with my family, it is a great trip. My sister trips to Florida have been pretty great too.

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

I used to think I wanted to skydive, but I am not as adventurous as I used to be. So, I must say, I am completely content with my iced coffee and my backyard. Watching all the flowers and birds — that makes me happy and brings me peace.

Missy Musleh

Client Care Coordinator

Every client wants a seamless, supportive advisory experience. As a Client Care Coordinator, Missy Musleh is a resource to make that happen, coordinating meetings, greeting clients, and connecting them to the right team members. She strives to make every interaction a good one and helps clients feel at ease.

Missy graduated from the International Business College in Indianapolis, where she majored in the Administrative Secretarial Program. Her experience in accounts payable, project management, and office management helps her confidently navigate diverse situations.

Missy is a wife and mom, and in her free time, she enjoys watercolor painting and scrapbooking. She leans into her local community, whether at church or work, looking for ways to be active and serve.

“I know I can impact our clients’ lives just by picking up the phone with a smile on my face. I strive to have a compassionate heart and the ability to listen and empathize with individuals and families.”

What are you most proud of?

Having been a single mom to my son, Grant, for his first 16 years. I was able to show him my strengths and vulnerabilities, introduce him to Jesus, and instill a moral compass in his heart.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

Our honeymoon to St. Lucia.

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

I have always wanted to see Tuscany. We are very fortunate to have saved up and are visiting in July!

Eli Smith

Wealth Advisor

As a Wealth Advisor serving the Greater Kalamazoo area, Eli Smith helps individuals and families address their finances in an accessible and engaging way. He guides hardworking Americans through a proven process to set their goals, understand investing, and make dreams a reality, applying timeless financial principles to each family's situation.

Eli graduated summa cum laude from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, with his bachelor’s degree in finance and data analysis. Before Credent, he honed technical problem-solving skills as an Information Technology Service Representative at Vestil Manufacturing and worked as a College Financial Representative at another company, introducing new clients to the firm.

Outside work, Eli enjoys watching and playing basketball with his family and friends and spending time at his family’s lake cottage on Crooked Lake. In college, he volunteered for a local Little League team and, growing up, served at the Fort Wayne Rescue Mission for about seven years.

“I am passionate about the work we do because it allows us to have important conversations that don’t come up in daily life and channel the team’s years of expertise into tangible and actionable results.”

What are you most proud of?

I am proud of my family’s history, the perseverance that led my family members to success in their respective fields, and the trust in the Lord they have displayed during struggles.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

Spending time at my buddy’s lake house on the Lake of the Ozarks, where we rode jet skis, explored the coves, went cliff diving, and parasailed.

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

Visit both the urban and rural areas in China and Japan to experience the culture and nature.

Brian Neal, AAMS®

Wealth Manager

After 15 years, Brian Neal is an expert at delivering financial advice that is easy to understand and instills confidence in clients. A typical day for him includes reassessing financial plans, keeping clients informed, and mentoring fellow advisors. Brian loves to see families reach milestones, and he’s eager to help them make the right choices to get there.

Brian attended Ball State University for manufacturing engineering and IU/PU Fort Wayne for organizational leadership and supervision. Before finance, he worked in production analysis and process improvement for a manufacturing company. Now an Accredited Asset Management Specialist℠, he is an expert at balancing a variety of financial topics.

When he’s not carpooling his three kids around town to band, soccer, and volleyball, Brian and his wife, Amy, like to eat out, travel, and hike.

“I appreciate working with other experts in their respective fields, as it takes the burden and pressure off me to provide what is best for me and my family. I strive to provide this same service to those seeking guidance on how to retire successfully and make smart decisions with their money.”

What are you most proud of?

My family. I am grateful for the people in my life. My wife has always been my biggest, most supportive fan and challenges me to grow. My children continue to teach me daily lessons and bring perspective to what is most important. I am also blessed to have my parents live close by and be a part of my family’s life.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

The best trip I have ever taken was to Jekyll Island, Georgia. We rented a house on the beach and were fortunate enough to see a sea turtle on the beach at night. We toured the historical district that housed the vacation homes of the Rockefellers and Vanderbilts. Jekyll Island was also the home of the first financial meeting of our country’s leaders, which later became the Federal Reserve Board.

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

I have always wanted to vacation in Scotland and Ireland. My family lineage resides in that area of the world.

Amy Fluty

Client Service Associate

Amy Fluty serves as a Client Service Associate in the greater Kalamazoo area, providing personalized support to clients and financial advisors. With over a decade of experience in finance, Amy has developed a deep understanding of the importance of precision, care, and communication in client relationships.

Prior to Credent, Amy worked at MainStreet Financial Advisors, which joined Credent in September 2025. She takes pride in helping clients navigate paperwork, digital platforms, and account processes with ease — ensuring their financial journey remains smooth and transparent.

Originally from Saginaw and now living in Bloomingdale, Michigan, Amy enjoys reading, gardening, and exploring the scenic Michigan lakeshore. Outside of work, she’s actively involved in her local church and finds joy in time with her husband, Leward, their four grown children, and their three miniature dachshunds.

“I appreciate being able to assist clients, answer their questions, and elevate their experience.”

What are you most proud of?

The good people my children are.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

To Colorado Springs, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, the mountains, Royal Gorge over the Arkansas River, and the mine and train ride at Cripple Creek.

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

I've always wanted to learn American Sign Language.

Dennis Kehoe

Wealth Manager

Dennis Kehoe offers nearly 20 years of experience as he delivers customized planning, analysis, and strategy to help clients achieve their goals and impact their spheres of influence. As a financial advisor near Kalamazoo, MI, he is skilled at identifying opportunities, offering solutions, and mitigating risk, giving clients peace of mind and a financial plan that works for them.

Dennis co-founded Oak Point Financial Group in 2010, which merged with Hefty Wealth Partners in 2018 to form Credent Wealth Management. With his experience and engineering background, he is uniquely qualified to support clients as they prepare for and navigate retirement.

In his free time, Dennis enjoys CrossFit, golf, cooking, BBQing, and taking weekend getaways with his wife, Holly, and their dog, Wilson. He is an alumnus of Lake Michigan College, a father of two, and an active member of his church and community.

“The work our team does is very rewarding because financial freedom changes lives. What we do has a significant impact on our clients’ families, communities, churches, and the causes they are passionate about.”

What are you most proud of?

Anyone who knows me would tell you I am pretty modest and humble.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas as the COVID-19 pandemic began to rattle the global stock markets. Or one of the two trips spent exploring St John, USVI, with Holly.

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

Build a home in rural northern Michigan.

John Ruzza, CFP®, CKA®

Financial Advisor

A Financial Advisor serving the Greater Kalamazoo area, John Ruzza guides clients through investment management, tax planning, estate planning, and legacy planning. With nearly 40 years of experience in financial services, he helps clients align financial strategies with their values and long-term goals.

A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and Certified Kingdom Advisor®, John is committed to integrity and excellence. Prior to Credent, he was the president of his own firm, MainStreet Financial Advisors, which joined Credent in September 2025. He is passionate about guiding families through multigenerational wealth planning, ensuring that assets and life lessons are successfully passed to the next generation.

Outside work, John enjoys music, sports, traveling, studying the Bible, and spending time with his wife, Cheri, and their grandson. A lifelong Michigan resident, he has also served with several nonprofits, demonstrating a commitment to stewardship and service in both his personal and professional life.

“I enjoy getting to know people well enough that many become like family, and I desire them to prosper in all areas of their lives — relationally, socially, financially, and spiritually.”

What are you most proud of?

Having a successful marriage and being blessed to run a successful business.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

Italy/Switzerland, Hawaii, and many cruises

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

There is nothing that I have not already done, though I do have some places outside the U.S. that I would still like to see/experience.

Theresa Kruizenga

Client Service Associate

Theresa Kruizenga is diligent about helping clients reach financial freedom and retire with confidence. As a Client Service Associate near Kalamazoo, MI, she is skilled at anticipating needs, solving problems, and putting clients at ease. The loss of her children’s father 20 years ago has given her a specific passion to support clients when they lose a spouse, empathizing with them as they navigate the loss.

Theresa holds an accounting degree and has eight years of financial industry experience, including time as a Teller Supervisor at PNC Bank. With her experience, she’s built a daily system to serve clients above and beyond their expectations, even waiting to call until after 10 am in case they are retired and still sleeping.

With her husband, Mark, Theresa has a blended family of nine children and 15 grandchildren. Her hobbies include fishing and boating in the summer and deer hunting with her husband and sons in the fall and winter.

“Seeing the relief and joy in clients’ faces makes me proud to work for Credent. We don’t just manage their money — we guide them along the way.”

What are you most proud of?

My family

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

Bear hunt in Quebec with my husband

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

Go on a moose hunt

Joel Macyauski, CFP®

Financial Advisor

Joel Macyauski is a financial advisor with Credent, serving clients in the Greater Kalamazoo area. He is passionate about helping individuals and families find clarity and confidence in their financial lives, partnering with clients to develop personalized financial plans that align with their values, goals, and long-term vision.

Before Credent, Joel worked at MainStreet Financial Advisors, which joined Credent in September 2025. His experience, coupled with his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification and degree in personal financial planning from Western Michigan University, enables him to provide thoughtful, strategic guidance on complex financial topics such as tax optimization and retirement planning.

A lifelong resident of Lawrence, Michigan, Joel and his wife now raise their young son in the same small town where they grew up. Outside of work, Joel enjoys spending time with family and friends, serving at his church, exploring new interests, and staying active through running, golfing, mountain biking, or snowboarding.

“I find it very rewarding to improve the lives of others. In my job, that can mean explaining hard-to-grasp financial concepts, showing someone they can retire, bringing clarity and confidence to a client's finances, partnering with clients in reaching their goals, and even holding them accountable.”

What are you most proud of?

My relationship with my wife and best friend, Heather.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

We recently went to a beautiful wedding of a childhood friend in Pennsylvania, and it was a blast. I got to spend time with family and old friends. The best trips for me are more about the people I'm with than the destination.

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

Go on an Alaskan cruise.

Elizabeth Tulloch, CFP®

Wealth Manager

Elizabeth Tulloch is a Wealth Manager serving clients in the Fort Wayne and Kalamazoo areas. With 15 years of industry experience, she partners with hardworking Americans to provide holistic financial planning that gives clients peace of mind in every stage of life. Elizabeth is passionate about helping each family align their decisions with their values and long-term goals, mapping their course in a dynamic financial plan.

Before joining Credent, Elizabeth worked in financial planning and held various roles at a Fortune 500 company. Her expertise, combined with a client-first mindset, enables her to serve with transparency and excellence. She specifically cares about helping woman advance their financial literacy, giving them hope and confidence in the future.

Elizabeth holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, watching her boys play soccer, spending time with her granddaughter, and serving at her church.

“I fully believe that financial freedom changes lives. Having a plan in place helps our clients see what that looks like to them.”

What are you most proud of?

Completing college and obtaining my CFP® certification while working full time and raising five boys.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

My husband is from London, and we went there with two of the boys over spring break to meet his family and spend time there.

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

Open a bookstore on a beach. Books and the beach are my two favorite things!

Wade Miller

Client Service Associate

As a Client Service Associate serving the Greater Fort Wayne and Greater Kalamazoo areas, Wade’s role centers on elevating the client experience and providing clear, trusted guidance to help others succeed. He builds customized financial plans, prepares meeting materials, connects client accounts, and ensures individuals leave each conversation with hope and confidence.

Wade’s experience in alumni engagement and partner integration taught him the importance of relationships and communication — skills he now channels into his financial career. His commitment to financial literacy stems from his own experiences growing up, which shaped his passion for guiding others through important financial decisions with empathy and integrity.

A high achiever, Wade graduated from Trine University in Angola, Indiana, with a Bachelor of Science in finance, a Master of Science in business analytics, and a Series 65 certification. In his spare time, he can be found watching and enjoying sports. He also volunteers for a local non-profit organization, helping low-income families with their taxes.

“Serving others is my passion. In this industry, there can be many bad actors, but I want to be the light.”

What are you most proud of?

Graduating from Trine with two degrees and the Series 65

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

Wisconsin Dells

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

Go to Brickell, Miami

Todd Hartsough, MBA

Wealth Advisor

Todd Hartsough champions financial education to help hardworking Americans plan for the future. He walks individuals through their current reality and future possibilities, helping them see how to achieve their life goals.

Todd has decades of experience helping people take action on what they learn. He is specifically passionate about helping others navigate change and accomplish what’s important to them. After years of coaching and teaching, he understands that everyone has unique ambitions, and he connects each person to the team they need to create a tailor-made plan.

Todd graduated from Manchester University with a double major in business administration and biology and earned his MBA from Indiana University. When not meeting with clients, he enjoys traveling, fishing, golfing, working on his farm, and spending time with his four children by coaching their sports teams.

“I am passionate about guiding clients through ever-changing life events and helping them understand how we can work together and make their goals a reality.”

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of the four awesome children I have and seeing them mature into young adults.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

The best trip I have ever been on was a two-week trip out west in 2021 with my family. We visited multiple national parks in Arizona, Nevada, California, Utah, Colorado, Idaho, Wyoming, and South Dakota.

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

I’ve always wanted to go to Maine, get on a lobster boat for the day, and then return to shore and enjoy a fresh catch.

Kentrina Mapes

Financial Advisor

Kentrina Mapes excels at serving clients, connecting their stories, struggles, and milestones to a plan that reflects their goals and dreams. With 20 years of industry experience and an authentic desire to serve, clients trust Kentrina to help them clarify and pursue what they care about most.

Kentrina earned her degree in organizational leadership and supervision. As a financial advisor, she guides clients through the highs and lows, giving them confidence and peace of mind as they make decisions.

Outside of work, Kentrina is a wife and mom of two. She loves riding in the Jeep with her husband, enjoys lazy pool days and “swim lessons” with her great nieces and nephews, and is active in her faith community.

“I find real purpose in celebrating with clients as they pay off a mortgage, welcome a new child or grandchild, reach that anticipated retirement date, or take that dream vacation. As a financial advisor, I get to be a real part of making a difference in others’ lives.”

What are you most proud of?

My children. They both have serving hearts and love Jesus. That’s the most important thing!

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

It’s a tie between exploring DC with my husband and the road trip with my son after his high school graduation to go humpback whale watching in Provincetown, Massachusetts.

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

Go orca whale watching on the West Coast.

Chris Scott

Financial Advisor

Chris Scott believes everyone deserves a chance at financial freedom. As a Financial Advisor for the Financial Guidance team, he helps accumulators and retirees experience the relief and joy of a secure future. A University of Georgia alum, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics.

In his previous finance roles, Chris learned to listen, understand, and respond to client needs. Now, he partners with hardworking Americans to create and optimize their plans, address their concerns, and support their goals.

In his free time, Chris serves with Hosea Helps and enjoys working out, cooking, traveling, trying new foods and restaurants, and spending time outdoors.

“To wake up every morning without worrying whether your loved ones will be taken care of is an amazing feeling, and I would love to see everyone I encounter reach that point in their financial journey.”

What are you most proud of?

Being the first in my family to graduate from college

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

Puerto Rico for my birthday

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do? (“bucket list item”)

Skydive or visit Bora Bora

Noah Richer

Client Service Associate

As a Client Service Associate, Noah Richer makes life easier for clients and advisors, helping them get the resources they need to accomplish their goals and tasks. Practically, this means taking requests for withdrawals or deposits, answering questions about paperwork, and maintaining an organized process for clients.

Before coming to Credent, Noah worked as a Cost Analyst and IT Contact at a home building company in Topeka, IN. His responsibilities included troubleshooting company programs, auditing cost materials, and performing inventory, giving him the skills to streamline systems so others can succeed.

Noah graduated from Grace College with a Bachelor of Science in business management. On weekends, you can often find him spending time with his significant other, Kayla, or watching college football, particularly The Ohio State Buckeyes.

“I am passionate about my work because it benefits someone else, helping clients build their futures, avoid financial hardships, and make their lives better.”

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

A cruise to the Bahamas with my family

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

Travel to Japan

Marques Glaze

Wealth Advisor - Private Wealth

With more than 20 years of financial industry experience, Marques Glaze serves as a Wealth Advisor on Credent’s Private Wealth Team, partnering with high-net-worth clients across the country to develop tailored strategies that address investment opportunities, tax efficiencies, risk management, legacy planning, and philanthropic goals. A cornerstone member of a family's multi-disciplinary advisory team, he helps them align their wealth with their values and vision.

Before Credent, Marques held leadership roles at The Vanguard Group, PNC Capital Advisors, and Fisher Investments, cultivating extensive expertise in portfolio management, fixed income strategies, and guiding clients through complex financial decisions. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Commonwealth University and an MBA with a finance focus from LaSalle University.

Outside of work, Marques is active in the Dallas community through Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, where he and his family volunteer for food drives, fundraisers, and service events. He enjoys traveling, fitness, and most of all, spending time with his wife, Vanessa, and their son.

“I’m passionate about cultivating deep, long-lasting relationships with our clients based on trust and empathy. My goal is to go above and beyond what our clients expect and for them to have the confidence that Credent is always doing what’s in their best interest.”

What are you most proud of?

My son. He is a top-five honors student, played a piano solo at Carnegie Hall in New York, and is just an awesome human being. I’m very proud of him and give all the credit to my wife, as she pushes him to be his best.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

So far, my favorite trip has been to Portugal. My wife and I visited Lisbon for our 10-year anniversary, and it was a wonderful trip. Between the history, the castles, and the cobblestone streets, I always tell people it’s one of the best places I’ve ever been.

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

I’ve always wanted to skydive but have never taken the time to schedule a tandem jump.

Chris Gautier, CFA, CIMA®

Portfolio Manager - Private Wealth

Chris Gautier is passionate about helping families secure their financial futures. There are countless ways to structure assets and investments in a financial plan, and as a Portfolio Manager, Chris helps busy, hardworking Americans navigate these choices and find the freedom to embrace more of what they love.

A Texas A&M alumnus, Chris earned his bachelor’s degree in economics and then obtained a designation as a Certified Investment Management Analyst®. In addition, he holds the Chartered Financial Analyst®designation, a rigorous achievement in the investment space. His background in the financial industry includes time with an over $80 billion asset manager and work with a family office and asset management firm in Dallas, TX. He's helped construct portfolios for advisor and client needs, served as an investment specialist for complex client situations, helped with tax strategy, and led new initiatives.

Outside work, Chris volunteers with Help For My Parents, which supports families as they select the best long-term care facilities for their loved ones with acute needs. He also enjoys spending time with his two kids, golfing, and traveling with his wife.

“If you have a solid base of financial freedom, you can focus on and enjoy the parts of life that provide happiness and meaning.”

What are you most proud of?

My kids and how much joy our family gets from our time together. Time goes faster every day, and I’d like it to slow down before my kiddos are all grown up.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

My wife and I went to Maui and got to experience and explore the entire island, and I got to play golf at Kapalua. It was one of those few trips where you aren’t quite ready to go home when it comes to an end.

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

I have a golf wish list of iconic courses across the country. At the top right now are Pebble Beach and Bandon Dunes.

Brian Remson, CFP®, CPWA®

Advanced Planning Advisor

Brian Remson is dedicated to excellence in planning and believes the right plan provides confidence and hope. He’s committed to helping Credent advisors build financial plans that guide clients to make well-informed decisions, navigate challenges, and achieve their bucket list goals and dreams.

Brian holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in economics and international business from Baylor University, is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, and earned the Certified Private Wealth Advisor® designation. His specialties include business and succession planning, philanthropic planning, tax-efficient intergenerational wealth transfer, and risk management services.

Brian is a husband and father of four, a trustee for the Greater Waco United Fund Foundation, the treasurer for the Heart of Texas Estate Planning Council, and a 2020 Waco under 40 honoree. He also enjoys cycling, participating in triathlons (including multiple half Ironman races), and coaching baseball and swimming.

“There is no better feeling than seeing a wave of peace wash over a client as they realize that even in severe downturns, they’re able to continue doing the things they want to do – traveling more, giving more, or leaving behind a significant legacy. It's not just about the numbers or the commas in our clients' net worth. It’s about their journey from success to significance, and I’m honored to be a part of that.”

What are you most proud of?

I'm most proud of the harmony we've achieved in our family of six, balancing quality family time, work commitments, and fun, all while keeping our faith at the core of our lives. It's not always easy, and there are moments when it feels like we're simply surviving, but we've also witnessed significant growth in our relationships, even amidst the chaos.

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

I would like to get my private pilot’s license and learn how to make croissants. I’m not sure which one I will start with as one hits the pocketbook and the other, the waistline.

Hayden Neely

Client Service Associate

Hayden Neely is committed to helping others embrace financial freedom and stay the course as they live out their financial plans. A member of the Private Wealth team, he serves high-net-worth individuals and families, addressing questions, anticipating needs, and finding ways to enhance each client’s experience above and beyond their expectations.

An alumnus of East Texas A&M University, Hayden received his bachelor’s in business administration with a focus in marketing and business analytics. Before Credent, he worked as a financial representative, helping clients with insurance and financial planning.

In his free time, Hayden is involved in his community and has organized several fundraisers for the Huntsman Cancer Institute. He also likes to travel and play the guitar.

“I am passionate about my work because I enjoy the rewarding feeling of helping people become financially free through a proven process.”

What are you most proud of?

I attended college on an academic scholarship and became fully licensed before graduating.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

Edinburgh, Scotland. I really enjoyed the culture and history of the town.

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

I would like to travel to Greece and experience the culture and food.

Edison Byzyka, CFA

Chief Investment Officer

Edison Byzyka leads Credent’s in-house investment team, offering clients strategic, transparent, tax-efficient options to help them build wealth. As the Chief Investment Officer, he maintains Credent's Unified Managed Account (UMA) platform through varying market cycles, upholding the highest standards with third-party-audited performance results.

Edison has been a guest on local and national radio and television shows and provides monthly market commentary for clients, helping them make smart investment decisions. He holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation and is a member of the CFA Institute and the CFA Society of Indianapolis.

Edison has 15 years of experience and earned his bachelor’s degree in finance with a minor in economics from Indiana University. When he’s not working, he enjoys cycling, traveling, trying new cuisines, and spending quality time at the lake with his wife and kids.

Alisha Norris, CFA

Senior Portfolio Manager

Alisha Norris manages all aspects of our UMA investment platform, making it possible for clients to accumulate wealth, mitigate risk, and minimize the tax impact of their investments. With over a decade of experience, she presents and publishes research to help advisors and clients understand the market and the impact of macroeconomic events.

Alisha earned a Bachelor of Science in finance and insurance and an MBA in finance from Ball State University. She is also a Chartered Financial Analyst, a rigorous and highly-regarded achievement in the investment community.

In her free time, Alisha enjoys traveling with her husband and two daughters, reading, running, and kayaking. She serves as an Investment Committee Member of the Junior Achievement Foundation, a Board Member of the Kendallville Day Care Center, and a member of the Noble County Young Professional Network.

“Investment management is a critical component of a solid financial plan by serving as a means to help clients grow their wealth, achieve their financial goals, manage risk, and establish lasting financial security.”

What are you most proud of?

Earning my CFA charter and being selected as a 2023 Fort Wayne Forty Under 40 recipient.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

St. Lucia for my honeymoon and study abroad in Italy during college

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

Travel to Australia with my family

Brady McBride

Investment and Research Analyst

Brady McBride’s work with structured assets, 401(k) management, and client portals creates a seamless, diverse investment experience for clients. A member of Credent’s Investment Policy Committee, he also provides researched investment recommendations intended to help clients succeed.

An investment authority, Brady provides weekly education to equip team members to support clients, answer questions, and understand Credent’s investment decisions. He also helps the firm maintain high investment standards through reporting to a third-party auditor.

Brady holds his Series 65 and passed Level 1 of the CFA exam. He is an alumnus of Ball State University, with a bachelor’s degree in finance and minor in financial planning. In his free time, Brady likes to workout, golf, and read.

“I am passionate about the work I do because there is great joy in knowing I am contributing to guiding clients towards financial freedom.”

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of passing Level 1 of the CFA exam and continuing down the path of becoming a charter holder.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

Las Vegas

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

Skydiving

Gabriel Wyatt

Investment and Research Analyst

Gabe Wyatt helps clients use high-quality, tax-efficient financial strategies to work toward their goals. An Investment Policy Committee member and direct indexing expert, he analyzes the markets and economy and proposes ways to elevate Credent’s investment offerings.

A key resource for advisors and clients, Gabe helps create weekly write-ups, debriefing recent events and helpful information for advisors. He is also involved in performance reporting, ensuring the integrity of Credent’s investment data.

Gabe graduated from Ball State University with a double major in finance and economics. He is also Series 65 certified. In his spare time, he enjoys playing guitar and spending time with his wife.

“I am most passionate about our direct indexing platform, as it allows us to give passive investors the ability to achieve market-like returns while simultaneously capturing losses that occur within the market.”

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of my wife. She’s everything to me, and I am so lucky to have met her so young.

What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?

London.

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do?

I would like to travel to Europe.

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