Financial Advising Testimonials and Endorsements

“Having been with a previous planner a long time, I thought I knew what I wanted. I wanted a mix of coach/cheerleader that let me lead, but who brings expertise and knowledge I lack. Stephan has been that–and MORE!

He’s incredibly smart, great human skills, and a subtle and kind desire to help that’s very comforting. This mix of technical savvy and support is an awesome fit for my needs. I like being coached and supported by Stephan and think we’ll be together long term! I certainly hope so.” 

– Current Client Testimonial

We are so glad to have found Stephan and are grateful for his excellent advice. Even during uncertain times we feel confident with his recommendations. He’s very personable and we feel he knows us and understands how to best advise us. He is always available for questions and advice when we need him. Thanks Stephan!

– Current Client Testimonial

Stephan and the team have been terrific. We engaged Scholar Financial Advising about 14 months ago after selling our business and retiring at 55. My wife and I received the initial plan, and have been through year one and follow-on review to check status and adjust. Stephan is responsive, and very supportive if I have questions about the plan or mid-year concerns. All advice and materials provided have been informative and helpful. Recommendations are specific and actionable which has allowed me to manage our own finances effectively and transition away from the assets under management model and our past advisor with confidence. Highly recommended – wish I had found this firm sooner!

– Current Client Testimonial

Stephan and the team are exceptional and cost-effective. They really help educate clients, develop high-quality plans, and provide wonderful service. Highly recommended not only for the service but also as a business to emulate. 

– Current Client Testimonial

We have worked with several advisors over the years and wanted to work with a firm that had critical expertise but also allowed us to play a bigger role in managing things ourselves. We also wanted someone we could work with long term. We started working with Stephan and could not be more pleased. The depth of analysis and advise was beyond what we’ve paid a lot more for. Stephan is also very responsive and very pleasant to work with. We now have a very solid plan and feel we have someone who has covered all the bases for us and is there if we need anything. He and his team’s credentials are impeccable. The mix of very comprehensive planning with guidance to implement the plan (and review as needed) is a difficult combination to find. Everyone should invest in a partnership like this. It gives you a clear path in planning your future which eliminates the guessing, stress and worry that often comes with this critical process.

– Current Client Testimonial

There’s a lot to like about working with Stephan. He can explain complex topics so that a novice like me can understand. He can also dig deep into a complex topic to make certain he and we fully understand. His business model is enlightened in that he makes money by doing his job well, not by how much money he manages for you. He takes full advantage of leveraging passive index funds as a vehicle for wealth creation which makes investing much more straightforward and lower in risk. He’s straightforward to deal with, timely and efficient. Thanks, Stephan!

– Current Client Testimonial

“I searched long and hard, far and wide, to find the kind of financial assistance that fit my circumstances. I like to keep things simple, and paying someone 1+% per year to manage my situation did not offer sufficient bang for the buck. At the same time I value expertise from professionals and was willing to pay for a good consult and strategic advice. I was beyond pleased with my experience with Scholar Financial. My interactions with Stephan Shipe and with Deon Strickland were professional, timely, informative, and gave me the EXACT information I had been looking for. Deon reviewed my particular situation, drafted a specific plan for me, and held my hand as I implemented it. Finding these two was like finding a needle in a haystack – and it was exactly the needle I needed to stitch up the solution I had been looking for. I recommend them highly.” 

– Current Client Testimonial

“I was looking for an advisor that would give solid advice as my wife and I approach retirement, without conflicts of interest. Stephan has lived up to my high expectations. Concrete advice that is easy to understand, flexibility, availability, and no conflicts of interest. Meets our needs completely.” 

– Current Client Testimonial

“I consider myself very financially literate, but I was getting overwhelmed by the plethora of information out there on how to successfully plan for financial goals and retirement. Stephan took all the guesswork away, created a clear path, and provided much needed reassurance. We look forward to our meetings and are excited to share our progress each time! We always come away with concrete action items and it feels good to take ownership of our plan with his guidance. Thanks so much, Stephan!!” 

– Current Client Testimonial

“I have worked with Stephan Shipe for several years, and I have been very pleased with the detailed financial plan he provided to me. While my hope was to find someone that could help make sure I stayed on track, I have in fact gained much more than that over the years. His patience in providing financial education each year has been invaluable. In addition, the entire team at Scholar Financial Advising are incredibly helpful and very professional.” 

– Current Client Testimonial

“I have worked with several financial planners over the years. However this was the first time I went with a fee based financial planner. Stephan was recommended to me by a colleague who was very satisfied with the services. I was not exactly sure what to expect but I also ended up very satisfied with the plan. Stephan provided my husband and I with a very clear view of what retirement will look like as well as a recommendation on actions to take now. I learned a few things and also have a clear understanding. Well worth it and extremely satisfied with the service.” 

– Former Client Endorsement

“My wife and I are very happy we decided to go with Stephan as our financial advisor. He explains everything clearly and is very responsive to questions. He has great advice for specific questions and also for comprehensive planning. After implementing all of his suggestions, we feel much more confident about our financial future. Highly recommend!” 

– Former Client Endorsement