“I strive to understand what keeps my clients awake at night,” John shares. “Then, I guide them step-by-step to reduce anxieties and build financial habits that align with their long-term goals.”

Growing up with seven siblings, John learned early the value of perseverance, patience, and empathy, qualities that have shaped his success as both an advisor and mentor. After beginning his career in the hospitality industry with Marriott, his desire for greater purpose and autonomy led him to financial planning.

In 2002, John helped to found Spaugh Dameron Tenny as a partner, where he found his calling: helping people make confident decisions about their financial future. Over the past two decades, he has guided hundreds of individuals, including physicians, executives, and business owners, through major life and career transitions.

John’s national work with medical institutions such as Atrium Health (formerly Carolinas Medical Center) established him as a trusted educator in financial wellness. His early workshops for residents and fellows evolved into speaking engagements across the country and the publication of The Residents and Fellows Financial Survival Guide, a resource designed to help medical professionals navigate complex financial challenges.

Today, John applies that same educational mindset to all his clients, helping them develop coordinated wealth strategies that align their goals, values, and opportunities. His approach to personalized financial planning emphasizes clear communication, long-term relationships, and proactive planning for life’s turning points — from career changes and liquidity events to retirement and legacy decisions.

“I believe in seeing the best in people,” John says. “My goal is to help clients uncover their strengths so they can make decisions with clarity and confidence.”

Outside the office, John enjoys time outdoors, boating, hunting, or experimenting with his signature homemade grilling rubs. He also serves as the Executive Director of The Herbert Spaugh Foundation and remains active in his church community at Lifepointe.

John lives in Indian Land, South Carolina, with his wife, Meredith, and their four children — Lucas, Benton, Palmer, and Sutton. His older sons, Fletcher and Tyler, are proud graduates of Appalachian State University and the University of South Carolina, respectively.