What would Launch Workplaces be without out our members? Our Member Spotlight Series features a member each month, showcasing our amazing community and what makes Launch Workplaces such an inspiring place to work!
This month, we are delighted to highlight Brad Sherman!
Tell us about Sherman Wealth Management and how it came to be.
I created SWM based on a combination of many experiences in my life. I knew from what I had seen in the field and how my family had been treated in the financial services industry that the service standard was not good enough. When I went back to grad school and saw that most of my peers who were finance majors didn’t really have a clue about financial literacy and personal finance, I knew that there was an underserved market that I really wanted to help. The bigger investment companies and insurance salesmen don’t want to talk to you unless you have a large minimum investment or if they can sell you an expensive product or service that you may or may not need based on a corporate agenda. We do things very differently at Sherman Wealth. We take a holistic view of financial planning and as a conflict-free, independent RIA, we offer clients customized services that are unhindered by corporate agendas. At the same time, we are able to incorporate the newest tech tools that not only make it easy for new clients to get started but also offer fast, best in class tools to help them with their financial plans and investments.
Are there any exciting things happening with Sherman Wealth Management at the moment?
Yes, we have some exciting things happening. We’ve incorporated top notch web tools for our clients that make it much easier for them to effectively track and see if they’re sticking to their financial plan and the progress they are making. In addition, we have developed presentations aimed at financial literacy for potential clients and local businesses who want to educate themselves on financial planning and investment management. We recently spoke at American University to a group of interns and graduating seniors. We are also continuing with our podcast in Launch Workplaces with Launch Podcast and Charlie Birney to bring on guests such as accountants and estates and trusts attorneys that will help anyone who listens plan better for their futures.
If you could give one piece of advice to college students on investing what it be?
Start now. Even if it’s just a small amount, start saving and investing on a regular basis and stick to it through market ups and downs. As a college student you have the wonderful gift of time on your side. Don’t think of it as saving for retirement, think of it as working toward financial independence. You don’t need to know where you will be 10 years from now. By incorporating good financial habits at a young age, you will see the benefits down the road, regardless of what path you take.
What financial tips would you give to members of Launch Workplaces (small businesses) some of whom are starting a business for the first time?
There are different tips that are going to be more appropriate for different people (i.e. emergency fund, retirement, income savings). One that will benefit everyone is the creating a financial plan as a road map to guide you. This can and should be a fluid process but taking the time to write out your financial goals, and a plan for how you aim to get there will help keep you on track.
What are some of your interests and hobbies?
I’m a huge Nats fan and enjoy fantasy baseball and football so I’m really excited for spring to come and for baseball to start again. I really enjoy reading about the stock market, behavioral finance and the ever-changing world of financial technology. I really enjoy spending time with my wife and son and we are looking forward to welcoming our daughter in April.
What is something we may not know about you?
Most people don’t know that I am huge music fan and I listen to as much music as possible. When I was in high school I used to sneak into lots of local concerts and really enjoyed every minute of it.
What brought you to Launch Workplaces?
I came to Launch Workplaces because it was near my house and I really like the environment and the space that they had built. Some of the people that I’ve met along the way I really enjoy collaborating with and building our businesses together.
What is your favorite aspect of having an office at Launch Workplaces?
I love the energy. You can feel it when you’re surrounded by creative, entrepreneurial people and the energy is contagious. Plus, the coffee’s great.
The information provided by Sherman Wealth Management LLC, a registered investment advisor, is general in nature and not intended to offer investment advice. Please visit our website (www.shermanwealth.com) for important information.
