Featured Equity Research Experts

Damon Paull, AWMA® - Financial Advisor, Best-Selling Author, Military Veteran As a wealth management advisor and Amazon best-selling author in Money and Business, Damon Paull brings a military precision to financial journalism. His recent collaboration with former FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss on "Empathetic Leadership" shows he can take complex financial concepts and turn them into stories that resonate with everyone. With over 8 years of industry experience and a background as a Marine Corps veteran and State Department contractor, Damon writes about: • Intergenerational wealth transfer • Corporate benefit plan optimization • Investment portfolio construction • Business succession planning • Veteran financial empowerment • Global market analysis through a geopolitical lens As a Wealth Management Advisor at Cetera Investors, Damon’s expertise goes beyond traditional financial planning. He uses cutting-edge financial technology and analysis tools to bring you fresh perspectives on emerging trends and investment opportunities. His writing style is data-driven with a storyline, making complex financial concepts accessible to sophisticated investors and general audiences. Regular contributor to discussions on wealth preservation, market dynamics and financial technology. Damon welcomes opportunities to provide professional commentary and in-depth analysis for financial publications looking for expert opinions on wealth management and investment strategies. For editorial inquiries or commentary: Damon Paull, AWMA Damon.Paull@ceterainvestors.com 832.535.2286 Glen Allen, VA Available for national and international commentary Cetera Investors. Damon Paull, Wealth Management Advisor. Securities and Insurance Products offered through Cetera Investment Services LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC. 140 EASTSHORE DR. SUITE 105, GLEN ALLEN, VA 23059. 804-346-4670. The opinions expressed are those of the writer, not recommendations of Cetera Investment Services LLC or its representatives.

If you’re here, you’re probably curious about who I am and what we do at spectup. Let me fill you in. I started my career with a banking apprenticeship, thinking I’d spend my life crunching numbers. But then I discovered startups—and everything changed. At N26, the fintech unicorn, I got my first taste of the fast-paced world of innovation. I fell in love with the chaos, creativity, and energy. After that, I joined Civey, where I dove into digital market research, business models, and marketing strategies. Then came Deutsche Bahn, where I worked on international expansion, competitor analysis, and market strategies. I learned how to make sense of complex industries (global transport markets, anyone?) and drive growth. At diffferent (yes, that’s how it’s spelled), I helped brands like Audi and Zalando identify growth opportunities and design innovative business strategies. And at Deloitte’s Innovation & Ventures team, I worked on building future-proof businesses with cutting-edge tech. One highlight? Leading 30+ projects at the BMW Startup Garage, helping startups find their place in the world of mobility. That’s where I saw the real power of connecting startups with the right partners. Now, I’m building spectup. We work with growth-stage companies and select early-stage startups, helping them raise capital, connect with the right investors, and position themselves for long-term success. We also work with investors—PEs, VCs, angels, and family offices—helping them find promising, vetted companies to invest in without spending countless hours on due diligence. Why? Because startups fail too often, and investors waste too much time looking for the right opportunities. We’re here to bridge that gap. Whether you’re a founder looking for investors or an investor seeking quality opportunities, spectup is about making those connections—and making them work.

As a seasoned finance professional and entrepreneur, I offer a unique perspective that blends rigorous financial analysis with real-world business experience. My career spans various roles in higher education finance, entrepreneurship, and corporate settings, giving me a comprehensive view of today's economic landscape. My expertise allows me to provide insights on a wide range of topics, including budget planning, financial forecasting, entrepreneurship, and the challenges facing modern universities. I can offer data-driven analysis on financial trends, as well as practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Additionally, as a local business owner and community member, I can speak to the economic climate and lifestyle of the Bay Area, particularly Marin County. Whether you're looking for expert commentary on financial matters, insights into the world of startups, or a local perspective on Bay Area living, I'm ready to provide clear, informed, and engaging responses to support your reporting.

Anant Wairagade is a Technical Lead with over 20 years of experience in Software Engineering enabling IT organizations with digital transformation and helping them become secure organizations. In his more than two decades long career, Anant has worked for financial services companies where he led the design and development of several successful products in the Security, Finance and CRM domain. Beginning of his career, Anant worked as a Technology consultant for major Financial Services companies and Banks. Anant is a thought leader in Enterprise Integrations solutions. He is expert in API based data connector development, Kafka and Messaging Middleware. Anant is also an active member of several Industry Open Standard communities. He is an IEEE Senior member and serves as Program Committee Member for several IEEE and other IT conferences.

Alan Andrews is a Web Marketing Consultant at KIS Finance with a strong background in finance and a sharp focus on SEO. After 30 years in the finance sector – specialising in large bridging loans and development finance – he turned his attention to digital strategy, using his technical skills to drive online visibility and lead generation. Alan manages KIS Finance’s SEO and content performance, continuously refining the site’s structure and organic rankings. When he’s not testing site architecture or decoding Google updates, he’s sharpening his Krav Maga skills or enjoying coastal walks.

I am an online marketing specialist with a Bachelor's in Computer Application from Karnataka State Open University and a Digital Analytics course from CXL. I have acquired multiple certifications in digital marketing, SEO, and email and newsletter marketing from reputable platforms such as LinkedIn and Delhi School of Internet Marketing. My most recent work experience was as a Tech Process Associate at Google, where I facilitated phone consultations with customers on Google Tag Implementation techniques and created Shopping Campaigns. I also communicated with advertisers and webmasters via various channels and used my knowledge of Google Ads, Analytics, and Tag Manager to assist them. Before that, I worked as an Inbound Assistant Manager at Insnap Technologies, where I optimized website content and meta tags, conducted keyword research, executed technical audits, and edited website copy and landing pages to improve SEO and organic traffic. I also created and monitored website performance and SEO progress reports, provided recommendations on website design and layout, and identified and implemented changes to website architecture. I am skilled in online marketing, SEO, web analytics, and social media marketing. I am passionate about helping businesses grow online and achieve their goals. I am always eager to learn new skills and technologies, and to collaborate with diverse and talented teams.

Earl Yaokasin, CFA, is an investment manager who runs WealthArch Investment Services in Pasadena, CA. He is a fiduciary with over twenty years of experience, and whose entire personal portfolio is managed by the firm in the same investments as the company’s clients. His firm focuses on value investing, similar to Warren Buffet’s successful approach, and disciplined strategies designed to create growth with downside protection, enabling clients to move steadily towards their life goals and aspirations with confidence.

My name is Steven Lowell, a Reverse Recruiter and Career Coach with Find My Profession. I am in my 50's, happily married, deal with Epilepsy, and managed to find jobs in 6 industries across 4 continents, as well as traveled the United States by bus to learn more about the people in the United States. I have been on this search to discover why I exist and the true meaning of success. I am a student of life. I know more than meets the eye. I am that guy in New York City, who always gets stopped by tourists to ask for directions, but you can also drop me in any country in the world and I will look like a local. I always help others. I was born and raised a NYC-native. I love people, diversity, honesty, loyalty, and learning. I am in an interracial marriage to my wife, Wendy, since 2007. And know everything about traveling, pizza, all things technology, writing, blogging, talent sourcing, resume writing, job searching, job boards, community management, customer service, hockey, golf, teaching, and talking to people from around the world. I am not your typical, rule-following person. My career has involved thinking outside the box, traveling, getting startups off the ground, and never turning down a really good challenge. Favorite Quote: "Things get better for everybody when they get better for everybody." -Eleanor Roosevelt

For over 30 years, Jim has been a change agent in the nonprofit and public sectors. Just recently, he finished his 7th interim executive position. Jim was the Interim CEO of the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, a visual and performing arts center in the heart of the cultural and convention district of San Francisco. There, he helped reduce a projected $4M deficit to $600k surplus and built back trust with the staff after a major public relations crisis. Previously, Jim was the Interim CEO of Downtown Streets Team, a nonprofit rated as one of California’s top five evidence-based best practices in transitioning the homeless to self-sufficiency. Over 18 months, he turned an $800,000 deficit into a $500,000 surplus while also paying off a third of their debt. Previously, he served as the interim executive director of five other nonprofits. His additional positions include acting as the Chief Communications Officer for the American Red Cross in Colorado, the interim Chief Operating Officer for More than Me (an international nonprofit for girls in Africa), and the Chief External Relations Officer for the Minnesota Zoo. In addition to his nonprofit work, Jim is passionate about good government. Jim was the VP of Strategy at CivicMakers, a San Francisco government innovation consultancy. There, he co-facilitated a three year strategic roadmap for the City of Hayward and designed process improvements for over 40 internal procedures for the City of Berkeley. As a 2014 Humphrey School Policy Fellow, 2013 White House Innovation Fellow finalist, and winner of the 2012 Minnesota Idea Open, he has been recognized for excellence within the public sector. Jim holds a master’s degree in public policy from Duke University and a bachelor’s degree in political science and communications from the University of Pennsylvania.

Experienced Executive Assistant supporting leadership at Edison Risk, a life and annuity-focused IMO, and The Policy Shop, a health insurance brokerage. Skilled in managing executive calendars, communications, licensing, and agent support across fast-paced, client-focused environments. Known for staying organized, ensuring smooth operations, and handling sensitive information with professionalism and care.

Patrick Schultz brings a sharp analytical edge to real estate investing, shaped by his experience as a research analyst for Jim Cramer on CNBC’s Mad Money. His deep understanding of financial markets, asset valuation, and investment strategies allows him to identify undervalued properties and optimize yield across his real estate portfolio. Alongside his wife, Hilary Schultz—a licensed real estate agent in Texas and Florida— their small family owned portfolio of businesses operate across every stage of residential real estate. They acquire homes, execute strategic renovations in SFR properties, and selectively retain assets that align with their long-term investment strategy. For Patrick and Hilary, real estate isn’t just about buying and selling—it’s about crafting solutions for homeowners. Whether purchasing homes for cash, revitalizing physically distressed properties, or helping sellers move forward with confidence, they approach every transaction with a problem-solving mindset. Their goal? Delivering outsized returns for investors while creating a delightful real estate experience for Texas home sellers.​

Sales and tech strategist driven to the front lines of the fintech evolution within the mortgage lending industry. Ambitiously working to create new opportunities, simplify processes, and pioneer modern solutions. Over 15 years of experience in the financial industry as an executive, strategist, consultant, trainer and team developer. •Founder of Liberty Financing LLC Previously: •Chief Strategy Officer at American Financing Corporation •Investment Advisor at Charles Schwab Knowledge and in depth experience ranges across technology innovation and integration (API, AI, Web design, SEO, SaaS), marketing, mortgage lending, business development, sales training, project management, data analysis and financial analysis. I’m passionate about providing the absolute best experience for our customers and the most rewarding career opportunities for our hard working high quality team members Current NMLS MLO State Licenses. Previously held FINRA Series 7 & Series 66 Licenses, Life and Health Insurance License, and Accredited Asset Management Specialist designation from the College of Financial Planning.

Susan Andrews is a senior HR consultant with over 30 years of experience, specializing in HR functions, employee relations, and workforce strategy. At KIS Finance, she also helps clients navigate complex financial needs. With a deep understanding of risk management, compliance, and employment law, she has worked at board level, ensuring HR strategies align with business objectives. As a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (FCIPD), Susan’s expertise includes designing reward and development strategies, implementing GDPR compliance, and managing complex employee relations issues. Outside of work, Susan enjoys horse riding, pilates, and reading.

Léo Pinon is an International Marketing Strategist at Go Fish Digital. Léo specializes in pay-per-click and social media advertising for local and global businesses. With a passion for driving results, his expertise ranges from developing lead generation strategies for B2B companies to maximizing online sales for e-commerce stores.

Currently serving as Associate Director at Marcitors and Knowledge Excel, I specialize in driving strategic initiatives in digital marketing, market research, and analytics. My role encompasses leading cross-functional teams to execute performance-driven marketing strategies, leveraging tools like Google Analytics 4 (GA4), customer data platforms (CDPs), and marketing automation systems to optimize campaign effectiveness and ROI. At Marcitors, I focus on developing integrated SEO strategies, PPC advertising campaigns, and social media management frameworks, ensuring data-backed decision-making and impactful client results. In my Knowledge Excel role, I spearhead market research projects and cross-platform tracking solutions, utilizing advanced methodologies to deliver actionable consumer insights and enhance digital transformation efforts. With expertise in marketing technology, analytics platforms, and operational optimization, I align marketing and data-driven processes to deliver measurable growth and value for diverse industries.

Alex Schlesinger is the Founder and CEO of Active Mutual. With 15 years of financial expertise in the UK and US markets, Alex brings a global perspective to his work. Alex's extensive knowledge and industry insights are regularly featured in high-profile publications such as MarketWatch, Nasdaq, Newsweek, Hubspot, Yahoo Finance, US News & World Report, MSN, and GoBankingRates, among many others. With a documented understanding of end-of-life products, Alex has become a trusted source for media outlets and a go-to expert for any questions on life insurance. As the founder of a leading final expense marketplace, Alex has shaped a company known for its commitment to transparency, simplicity, and customer care. Recognized for his ability to simplify complex insurance topics, Alex’s commentary continues to help readers make informed decisions about their financial futures.

A highly motivated and detail-oriented professional with a strong foundation in marketing and management, holding a double major in both disciplines. Experienced in human resources across non-profit and for-profit sectors, as well as in marketing, bringing a versatile skill set to any organization. Known for exceptional organizational skills, a keen eye for detail, and a dedication to continuous growth and learning. Passionate about driving efficiency, fostering positive workplace culture, and contributing to strategic business success through hard work and adaptability.