Recognized Trusts and Estates Leaders 2025

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.

In 2010, Mr. Ford achieved the highest distinction available to an attorney practicing in the area of estate planning and probate in Texas. He became Board Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, which is a coveted recognition bestowed on only the few attorneys, less than 2% of all licensed attorneys in Texas, who have demonstrated special competence in this area of law and who have received recommendations from fellow attorneys and judges with whom they have worked. In 2009, Mr. Ford completed the required course-work to become certified to serve as a mediator. In pursuit of this distinction, Mr. Ford attended the world-renowned Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution at the Pepperdine University School of Law in Malibu, California. He attended this intensive course with the goal of being able to conduct mediations in probate and guardianship cases, as few mediators in Texas specialize in these areas. In 2006, Mr. Ford was appointed by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Texas to serve on the Guardianship Certification Board, which is a 15-member board that creates policy and oversees the regulation of private professional guardians in the State of Texas. At the inaugural meeting of the GCB, Mr. Ford was elected as the Chair of the Rules Committee, where he has served with distinction since that time. Mr. Ford’s recent distinctions are reflective of a dedication to the areas of estate planning, probate, and guardianship that began early in his education. In law school, Mr. Ford was fortunate to be able to concentrate his education in estate planning and business planning, not unlike a major in undergraduate school. His concentration in estate planning and business planning involved a curriculum designed around an in-depth study of those areas. Mr. Ford graduated from Baylor University with degrees in Accounting and Law. He has also completed several post-graduate courses at Baylor in pursuit of a Masters in Taxation. Don was designated a Super Lawyer in 2025 by Thomson Reuters, is a fellow of the Houston Bar Foundation, has served as Commissioner since 2014 on the Texas Judicial Branch Certification Commission, and was Editorial Board Member, 1999 to 2010, for The Houston Lawyer Magazine. He is the founding attorney of Ford + Bergner LLP which celebrated it's 25th year in 2025.

Seann Malloy is a seasoned civil litigator and founding partner of Malloy Law Offices, specializing in litigation. With over 20 years of experience, he represents clients in a wide range of civil matters, including personal injury, commercial litigation, real estate disputes, and employment litigation. Known for being persuasive, meticulously prepared, and confident in the courtroom, Seann handles cases at both the trial and appellate levels—delivering results for individuals and businesses alike. Whether it’s a personal injury claim or a complex business dispute, Seann’s approach is rooted in strategy, clarity, and an unwavering commitment to his clients. Licensed to practice in Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Florida, Seann is also admitted to several federal courts, including the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia and the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals. As a graduate of Loyola University New Orleans College of Law and the University of Missouri, he has earned distinctions such as National Trial Lawyers Top 100 and a perfect 10.0 Avvo rating. His track record is backed by glowing client reviews and a reputation for personal, attentive service. Seann believes that early, informed legal action can make all the difference—and he's the kind of advocate you want on your side when it counts.

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.

I am a lawyer from Long Island NY who has been practicing since 2003 with expertise in NY no-fault, personal injury, and employment discrimination.

Some people list houses. Hilary Schultz builds solutions. With over 20 years in the industry as a licensed Realtor in Texas and Florida, she helps homeowners sell with confidence—whether through a fast and fair cash offer, a carefully structured listing, or a creative financing strategy. She and her husband operate a portfolio of real estate companies that cover every stage of the home-selling process. From acquiring and renovating distressed properties to managing long-term investments, their businesses are designed to create value while giving sellers real options. Hilary understands that no two home sales are alike, which is why she takes a problem-solving approach to every transaction. Her expertise in market trends, negotiations, and deal structuring allows her to help homeowners find the best path forward—quickly, efficiently, and with real financial results.

Scott Levin, known as the Chief PeaceKeeper™, is a leading San Diego divorce lawyer and mediation expert. As the founder of San Diego Divorce Mediation & Family Law, Scott helps couples achieve amicable divorces without the stress of court battles or high legal fees. With over 20 years of family law experience and a magna cum laude degree from the University of Virginia School of Law, Scott is dedicated to providing affordable, peaceful resolutions for families. Scott's clients typically reach amicable out of court agreements in months for a fraction of the cost of a contested litigation. Scott’s expertise as a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst™ ensures a fair division of assets and debts, while his problem-solving approach has earned him recognition as one of San Diego's top family law attorneys, including awards from San Diego Business Journal, Super Lawyers, Mediate.com, and San Diego Metro Magazine. Scott is proud of his and the firm's compassionate approach to separation empowering families to resolve all aspects of divorce with dignity. To learn more about Scott and mediation law services, call 858-255-1321

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.

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.

With over two decades of experience as an International Protective and Intelligence Specialist, Denida Grow has cultivated a wealth of expertise across various countries and cultures. In 2002, she founded Athena Worldwide & Athena Academy in Greece, a pioneering training and placement company exclusively dedicated to female security professionals. Her vision was to establish a nurturing and empowering environment where women could receive comprehensive guidance in essential areas such as soft skills, protective intelligence, covert protective details, and conflict management. Inspired by the ancient Greek goddess Athena, Denida’s focus was to teach her students to “protect through wisdom and intelligence.” Expanding her portfolio in 2008, she introduced Nannyguards, a groundbreaking hybrid service merging childcare with protective services. Throughout her career, Denida has assumed numerous leadership roles including Executive Protection Operative (both Covert and Overt), Security Consultant, Intelligence Analyst, Instructor, Investigator, and Project Manager. Her clientele has spanned the globe, with work experience in countries such as India, Greece, France, Italy, Albania, and the USA. Holding a BSc in Counseling and Psychology from Teesside University, Denida has received training in various Executive Protection methodologies from esteemed British, American, and Israeli organizations. Over the past decade, she has honed her focus on Protective Intelligence, Intelligence Analysis, and Open-Source Intelligence. Currently serving as the managing partner for LeMareschal LLC, an International Risk Management, Protective Intelligence, and Logistics company headquartered in Seattle, WA, Denida continues to drive innovation and excellence in the field. Fluent in Albanian, Greek, and English, she remains deeply committed to delivering bespoke security solutions and training programs to individuals and organizations worldwide.

Healthcare and business attorney licensed in California and Minnesota. I'm David ("DJ") Holt, a dedicated Healthcare Attorney and the founder of Holt Law - a boutique multi-state health law firm. I am the "surgeon" of attorneys - focusing on highly specific practice areas that I do very well. Coincidently, I also work with surgeons and medical doctors often! Also, I work well to team up with other attorneys who are the experts in their areas in order to serve as a one-stop-shop for my business-owner clients.

Meet Jim Lee and Ann Cummings – Trusted Coastal Real Estate Experts with RE/MAX Shoreline Jim and Ann are an experienced, highly regarded real estate team specializing in the vibrant markets along the New Hampshire Seacoast and Southern Maine. As seasoned professionals with RE/MAX Shoreline, they bring a dynamic blend of market intelligence, thoughtful strategy, and personalized service to every client relationship. With decades of combined experience, Jim and Ann have successfully guided clients through a wide range of real estate journeys—from first-time homebuyers and seasoned investors to families navigating relocation, downsizing, or life transitions like divorce. Their deep understanding of local market trends, zoning, coastal regulations, and community nuances enables them to offer expert guidance in even the most complex transactions. Jim is known for his strategic mindset, calm professionalism, and sharp negotiation skills. Ann brings a creative edge, a detail-oriented approach, and a warm, empathetic style that puts clients at ease. Together, they form a balanced partnership built on trust, integrity, and a shared commitment to delivering exceptional results. Their marketing approach is rooted in compelling storytelling, refined coastal branding, and data-driven insights that keep clients informed and empowered. They leverage the strength of the RE/MAX Shoreline network to provide broad exposure for sellers and unmatched access to off-market opportunities for buyers. Consistently recognized as top performers in the region, Jim and Ann are also active members of their coastal communities, often supporting local causes and promoting the lifestyle that makes this area so special. Whether you're buying, selling, or simply exploring your options, Jim and Ann are the trusted local experts you want by your side—professional, approachable, and always focused on your goals. For interviews, expert commentary, or media features about coastal living and real estate trends in New Hampshire and Southern Maine, Jim and Ann are available to share insights that reflect both the lifestyle and the market dynamics of this exceptional region.

Real estate isn’t just about transactions—it’s about solving problems, and that’s where Hilary Schultz excels. A licensed Realtor in Texas and Florida with over two decades of experience, she helps homeowners make smart, strategic moves, whether they need a fast cash offer, a market-listed sale, or something in between. Alongside her husband, Hilary operates a portfolio of real estate companies that cover every stage of residential real estate—acquisitions, renovations, and long-term asset management. They don’t just buy and sell houses; they create value, revitalize communities, and help homeowners move forward with confidence. Her expertise in property valuations, negotiation, and market trends makes her a go-to resource for sellers looking for real solutions—not just quick fixes. With a strong track record and thousands of successful transactions, Hilary is known for getting deals done the right way

I'm passionate about helping families build generational wealth through strategic retirement planning. As a retirement income strategist, I specialize in self-directed retirement solutions that give people more control over their financial future. My approach is pretty straightforward - I believe everyone deserves access to the financial strategies that the wealthy have been using for generations. I focus on showing clients how to leverage their existing assets, whether that's an old 401(k), home equity, or other resources, to create multiple streams of retirement income. What really drives me is seeing families break free from traditional financial limitations. I love educating people about options they didn't even know existed, like self-directed 401(k)s and velocity banking strategies. It's amazing to watch someone's eyes light up when they realize they have more control over their financial destiny than they thought. I take pride in sitting on the same side of the table as my clients - their success is my success. Whether we're mapping out a debt elimination strategy or creating a retirement income plan, my goal is to empower people with the knowledge and tools they need to build lasting wealth.

Licensed to practice law in both Texas and Louisiana, Chaile focuses her practice on high-stakes civil cases, representing clients in personal injury suits, complex commercial litigation, product-liability claims, energy disputes, and construction litigation. Chaile’s legal experience includes more than 17 years of litigating hundreds of civil lawsuits arising from catastrophic injuries and deaths due to the negligence of others. Chaile resides in Abilene, Texas, and is proud of her record of success serving members of her community and surrounding communities as they seek needed compensation for their serious injuries. Chaile has the compassion, experience, and trial experience to achieve the results her clients need to get on with their lives. Chaile has been designated a Texas Rising Star by Super Lawyers every year since 2020, an honor determined by both results for her clients and the endorsement of her legal peers. Chaile understands that quality representation begins the minute a new client contacts her office and continues until all aspects of the case are satisfactorily addressed.