BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS
THAT BUILD WEALTH

EXTRAORDINARY RELATIONSHIPS BEGIN WITH EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE.

Clients who come to Van Hulzen after working with other financial advisory firms consistently note the quality of our people. This doesn’t happen by chance. It’s the result of our deep commitment to hiring and retaining team members who are not only highly qualified, but reflect our core values and culture. Here, character matters. So does caring.

Our people find joy in serving and are passionate about making a transformational impact on the lives of our clients, their families, employees, and our larger community. At Van Hulzen, you’ll work with experts worthy of your trust who are constantly looking for ways to achieve your goals and improve your outcomes.

We help you to find certainty in chaotic times and stay the course toward long-term financial freedom. Most of all, we stand by you every step of the way. Because that’s what true financial partners do.

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OUR STORY OUR INSIGHTS

MEET OUR TEAM

Craig Van Hulzen

Chief Investment Officer | Executive Chairman

Craig Van Hulzen

Chief Investment Officer | Executive Chairman

As founder and Chairman of Van Hulzen Financial Advisors, Craig has been dedicated to educating people and organizations in the area of financial education for many years. As a risk management professional, he served in the role of expert witness for several states, and he worked as a technical consultant to domestic and foreign investment firms. In addition, Craig served as a lead manager of a private long/short equity fund and manager of a 1940 Act mutual fund. In 2011, he co-founded the Iron Horse Fund.

Today, he gives technical and options advice to other registered investment advisors. As a seasoned writer, he is the author of several white papers on options utilization in portfolios, and regularly shares his insights with readers of national media, including Business Week, Fortune Online, Financial Planning and USA Today. Craig also serves as a board member on various for-profit and nonprofit organizations and foundations. An interesting fact: Craig holds the record for the most strikeouts recorded in California high school baseball.

Brad Nicholson CFP®

Financial Advisor | President

Brad Nicholson CFP®

Financial Advisor | President

Brad approaches both life and work with a strong sense of purpose. A former NAIA First Team All-American and Academic All-American in basketball, he understands dedication and leadership, and he carries that commitment into everything he does. Off the court, you can find him kayaking, hiking, fishing, or playing basketball with friends—and cheering on his kids at their own sporting events.

Brad is passionate about mentoring, whether he’s leading small groups for business leaders or guiding young men to discover their potential. He believes that money can be a powerful tool for helping people achieve their goals and find deeper meaning. In his personal life, he’s inspired by his faith in Jesus and the lessons he learned from his college coach, Art Wilmore.

An avid music lover (though he’ll admit he can’t carry a tune a cappella), Brad also once made 96 out of 100 three-pointers in a single session—a testament to his focus and drive. Looking ahead, he’s excited to watch his kids grow into young adults and continue empowering others with truth and purpose in a world filled with endless information and choices.

Rhett Beal ChSNC®

Financial Advisor | Vice President

Rhett Beal ChSNC®

Financial Advisor | Vice President

Rhett is the Vice President of Van Hulzen Financial Advisors, where he leads the firm’s Special Needs Advisory services. Holding a Chartered Special Needs Consultant (ChSNC) designation, he’s deeply committed to serving families with special needs and helping them navigate the complexities of financial planning.

What truly drives Rhett is the belief that people’s relationship with money can affect every aspect of their lives—from personal well-being to family dynamics. He’s motivated by the impact clear, thoughtful guidance can have in fostering healthier relationships and stronger communities. Driven by his Christian values, Rhett strives to be caring, reliable, and wise in every client interaction.

Outside the office, Rhett loves spending time with his wife, Jenna, and their two young children, especially in the great outdoors, whether he’s playing basketball or caring for his horses. An avid supporter of Young Life and Infinite Friends, he offers mentorship and guidance to young people, looking forward to growing his own family and making a positive difference for others in the years ahead.

Amber Adams

Financial Advisor | Director of Client Services

Amber Adams

Director of Client Services

Amber has been a vital part of Van Hulzen Financial Advisors for 11 years, serving as an Advisor, Director of Client Services, and member of the leadership team. She’s passionate about helping people feel valued and cared for—an outlook that informs everything she does.

Outside the office, you’ll often find Amber at concerts, live theatre shows, or comedy clubs. She also loves crafting and playing guitar. Volunteering is important to her, too—she supports the Interfaith Food Bank and Infinite Friends, and hopes to become more involved with animal welfare organizations.

Guided by responsibility, fairness, and empathy, Amber takes pride in raising a bright, ambitious child and championing the success of women in finance. She’s looking forward to all the concerts on her calendar, as well as continuing to create a welcoming environment for clients and colleagues alike.

Paul Nederveld CPA

Financial Advisor | Director of Business Operations

Paul Nederveld, CPA

Financial Advisor | Director of business operations

Paul specializes in helping small business owners balance the unique demands of personal and business finances. Guided by a commitment to stewardship, truth, and quality, he finds his purpose in developing strategies that let clients focus on what matters most. When he’s not in the office, Paul is happiest on the water—fishing, boating, or simply spending time in the mountains with his family. He also appreciates good food, good wine, and good music (from ’90s country and bluegrass to early-2000s hip hop), and never passes up the chance to wrestle with his boys.

Community is important to Paul, and he enjoys connecting people through his church, Rotary, and supporting organizations like the NorCal Guides & Sportsman’s Association and AIM. A seasoned traveler, he’s visited over 15 countries, studied abroad in Spain, and even spent a summer white-water rafting in Alaska. Looking ahead, Paul’s excited to keep finding new ways to help clients thrive—and to take his boys on their very first camping adventure.

Jarrod Jacobi AWMA®

Financial Advisor

Jarrod Jacobi, AWMA

Senior Financial Advisor | AWMA®

Jarrod brings decades of market experience and a spirit of adventure to our team, having started his financial career as a clerk on the NYSE floor in 1994. He thrives on the ever-changing nature of the markets, guiding clients with agility and care. Outside of work, Jarrod is an avid outdoor enthusiast—he’s passionate about skiing, mountain biking, sea kayaking, and dirt bike riding. He also loves cooking (thanks to a stint in culinary school), reading real paper books, and catching live music whenever possible.

Equally important to Jarrod is giving back to his community: he volunteers with the El Dorado County Senior Center, delivering hot meals to homebound seniors, and he maintains backcountry trails with local stewardship groups. He lives by the Golden Rule, credits his daughter (and his dog) for inspiring him daily, and is grateful for the opportunity to help clients achieve their goals while staying true to his core values.

Nicole Zetouna CRPC®

Financial Advisor

Nicole Zetouna CRPC®

Senior Financial Advisor

Nicole joined the VAM team as a Financial Advisor in 2011. With a B.S. in Accounting from the University of San Diego and a CRPC designation, Nicole brings a highly detailed approach and wealth of knowledge to our team and clients. As a Southern California resident, Nicole enjoys making the most of the best weather in the country by golfing and hiking in her spare time.

Stefan ten Brink

Managing Director - Asset Management | Portfolio Manager

Stefan ten Brink

Managing Director - Asset Management | Portfolio Manager

Stefan joined Van Hulzen Financial Advisors in 2011 and oversees global portfolio management. Stefan managed the equity portfolio at Ahold Pension Fund before accumulating 28 years of investment experience at Petercam Asset Management in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Stefan is Certified European Financial Analyst (CEFA). An interesting fact: Stefan is an accomplished skier and has served as ski patrol for the last 11 years.

John Pearce

Managing Director - Asset Management

John Pearce

Managing Director of Asset Management

John joined the Firm in February 2008. He co-manages the Firm’s equity, covered call and small-cap strategies. Prior to joining Van Hulzen Financial Advisors, John was a Director in the Investment Banking division of Credit Suisse Securities. Prior to Credit Suisse, he was an equity analyst at HOLT. John holds a B.A. in Economics from the University of Virginia and a M.S. in Accounting from the College of Charleston. An interesting fact; John is a classic car enthusiast and owns a 1955 Ford Thunderbird.

Gretchen Aubrey

Trading Lead

Gretchen Aubrey

Trading Lead

Gretchen is a key member of Van Hulzen Financial Advisors’ trade team, where she’s energized by researching companies, following economic trends, and pinpointing new investment opportunities. Outside the office, Gretchen loves working out, exploring the outdoors with her husband and son, and traveling the world in search of great food and unique cultures. She also volunteers at her church—serving at the coffee bar and coordinating Meal Train to support families in need.

Motivated by her faith, Gretchen strives to live with integrity and authenticity, using her time and talents to serve others. She’s especially passionate about Foster & Heart, a local organization that helps keep foster families together during times of transition. Whether she’s charting stocks, watching a good comedy podcast, or singing along to a country or rap classic, Gretchen is all about living intentionally, cheering on others, and building a life that honors what matters most.

Andrea Scalzi

Client Services Associate

Andrea Scalzi

Client Services Associate

Andrea has been with Van Hulzen Financial Advisors for six years, serving as Brand Development Manager. She loves spotlighting her team’s unique talents and building meaningful client connections. Outside of work, Andrea enjoys hiking with her kids, cheering them on in sports, listening to podcasts, and walking the lake trails. She also dedicates her time to Infinite Friends, championing youth sports and school arts programs along the way.

Guided by care, attentiveness, and a growth mindset, Andrea finds beauty in everyday details—whether it’s gift-wrapping or designing a welcoming website. Looking ahead, she’s excited to watch her children grow and to continue helping clients use their finances to focus on what truly matters most.

Savannah Van Ness

Client Services Associate

Savannah Van Ness

Client Services Associate

Savannah began her journey at Van Hulzen Financial Advisors as an Office Administrator and now contributes to the Client Services team. She’s passionate about teamwork, believing in “teamwork makes the dream work,” and finds fulfillment in supporting colleagues and clients alike.

Outside the office, Savannah loves tackling home projects—upcycling furniture or revamping a room gives her a strong sense of accomplishment. Equally important is her commitment to her community: she participates in mission trips, prepares Christmas food baskets, and donates firewood to elderly neighbors. Savannah is also a devoted advocate for local animal rescues and takes inspiration from her faith in God and her family.

Looking ahead, Savannah hopes to deepen her expertise in client services, continue fostering genuine connections with clients, and spend even more time giving back—whether that’s helping seniors stay warm during winter or volunteering at a local animal shelter.

Sean Sowers

Client Advisory Services Associate

Sean Sowers

Client Advisory Services Associate

Sean joined Van Hulzen Financial Advisors in 2017 as a Client Services Associate, bringing over two decades of experience in the financial services industry. In his role, he supports the firm’s operational needs, drawing on the expertise he’s built since 1995. Sean earned his B.S. in Business Administration with a focus in Finance from California State University, East Bay.

When he’s not at work, Sean loves putting his creativity to use through woodworking and DIY home projects. He’s also passionate about giving back to the Folsom community through volunteer efforts and enjoys traveling throughout the United States, always on the lookout for new adventures.

Brendan Drake

Financial Advisor

Brendan Drake

Financial Advisor

Brendan joined Van Hulzen Financial Advisors in 2024 as a Financial Advisor, bringing 13 years of industry experience focused on insurance and comprehensive financial planning. A native of Amador County, he’s especially committed to serving families in his hometown of Jackson, CA. When he’s not working, Brendan stays active playing pickleball, cheering on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and participating in local Rotary clubs. He also cherishes time with his wife, Melissa, and their two daughters, Mallie and Della.

Martin Weil CFP®

Financial Advisor

Martin Weil, CFP®

Senior Financial Advisor

Martin started MW Investment Strategy in 1997, as an asset manager with a focus on financial planning and individualized client service. In 2016, Martin joined forces with Craig Van Hulzen when he merged his firm into Van Hulzen Asset Management. Martin lives in Sonoma, California with his wife, Deirdre. They have two adult children and one granddaughter, with another on the way. Martin currently serves as Treasurer of Marin Community Clinics, a large nonprofit primary care health provider, and is on the board of Marin Ventures, a provider of program services for disabled adults. Interesting fact: Martin lived and worked for four years in Paris, France and is (was) a fluent French speaker.

Julie Bracken

Client Relations Manager

Julie Bracken

Client Relations Manager

Julie has been a cornerstone at Van Hulzen Financial Advisors for nearly two decades, building lasting relationships through compassion, loyalty, and genuine care. She’s passionate about supporting elderly neighbors, local businesses, and anyone in vulnerable situations—aiming always to be the trusted friend and lifeline clients can turn to.

Outside the office, Julie is a proud grandmother who draws inspiration from her own grandmothers’ nurturing spirit. She’s an avid lover of nature, founding a plant group where members swap knowledge on sustainable plant medicine and homesteading. Whether she’s tending to her garden or cuddling with her granddaughters, Julie finds true joy in helping seeds—and people—grow. Looking ahead, she hopes to establish a community garden to further support those in need.

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Ashleigh Wilberg

Office Manager

Ashleigh Wilberg

Office Manager

Ashleigh is the Office Manager at Van Hulzen Financial Advisors, where she helps ensure day-to-day operations run smoothly. Outside of work, she’s a proud mom who loves camping with her family, taking road trips, and exploring local shops and restaurants. She’s also an enthusiastic supporter of her children’s baseball and Girl Scout activities, guided by her belief in treating others the way she’d like to be treated.

Ashleigh credits her mother’s encouragement—and the inspiration she finds in her own kids—for shaping her sense of purpose. She even homeschooled her children, discovering new strengths along the way. Known among friends for her bargain-hunting skills, Ashleigh is excited to learn and grow with the Van Hulzen team, all while finding fresh opportunities to volunteer and give back in the community.

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS THAT BUILD WEALTH

EXTRAORDINARY RELATIONSHIPS BEGIN WITH EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE.

CONNECT WITH

MEET OUR TEAM

Craig Van Hulzen

Chief Investment Officer | Executive Chairman

Brad Nicholson CFP®

Financial Advisor | President

Rhett Beal ChSNC®

Financial Advisor | Vice President

Amber Adams

Director of Client Services

Paul Nederveld, CPA

Financial Advisor | Director of business operations

Jarrod Jacobi, AWMA

Senior Financial Advisor | AWMA®

Nicole Zetouna CRPC®

Senior Financial Advisor

Stefan ten Brink

Managing Director - Asset Management | Portfolio Manager

John Pearce

Managing Director of Asset Management

Gretchen Aubrey

Trading Lead

Andrea Scalzi

Client Services Associate

Savannah Van Ness

Client Services Associate

Sean Sowers

Client Advisory Services Associate

Brendan Drake

Financial Advisor

Martin Weil, CFP®

Senior Financial Advisor

Julie Bracken

Client Relations Manager

Ashleigh Wilberg

Office Manager

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BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS
THAT BUILD WEALTH