Shawn J. Waked, M.S., CFP®, is an intrinsically motivated financial professional with over 20 years of experience in the financial industry. Based in St. Petersburg, Florida, Shawn dedicates his professional career to helping businesses, governments, and individuals achieve their financial goals while advancing education in personal finance. He is the owner of Maestro Financial Partners, an independent practice affiliated with Raymond James, where he combines his expertise in personal finance and behavioral economics to offer a holistic approach to financial planning.
Professional Background
Shawn's career journey began in the mortgage industry, where he swiftly rose to the position of National Director of Administration and Technology at HomEq Mortgage. He then transitioned to the insurance sector, opening an Allstate insurance practice in 2006. By 2012, Shawn had sold his Allstate practice to establish an independent insurance brokerage, Practical Insurance Solutions, providing a broader selection of products for his clients.
In 2019, Shawn founded Maestro Financial Partners. As a Certified Financial Planner™ and investment advisor, he creates a space where clients can openly discuss their financial goals while addressing cognitive biases and heuristics. His holistic approach, rooted in behavioral finance principles, enables him to design custom plans that meet clients' unique objectives. Shawn also oversees all aspects of his business, including marketing, compliance, budgeting, investment management, and staff development.
Notable Achievements
- He has acquired, sold, and moved multiple financial and insurance practices.
- He has recruited and trained numerous financial professionals.
- Since 2018, he has collaborated with the Financial Therapy Association to advance the fields of behavioral economics and financial therapy.
- He has delivered talks on the psychology of money at industry conferences.
- He negotiated a multi-billion-dollar plant retooling investment with a leading American Car Manufacturer in Wentzville, MO.
Community Involvement and Personal Life
Shawn's commitment to community service is evident from his early career. At 24, he became the youngest alderman in Wentzville, MO’s history, contributing to the city’s master plan and various infrastructure projects. His name is listed on dedication plaques throughout the city, including overpasses, the police station, and parks. Shawn has served on various boards and committees during and after his term as alderman.
Shawn resides in St. Petersburg, Florida, but spends much of his summers in Santa Fe, New Mexico. When not working, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Theresa, and their energetic Doberman, Scarlett. The family loves traveling, exploring new places, and volunteering in their communities. Shawn is also passionate about biking, hiking, reading, and attending local art and music festivals.
Education and Certifications
Shawn holds a master’s degree in Personal Financial Planning and a Certificate in Financial Therapy from Kansas State University, as well as a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Lindenwood University. His credentials include:
- CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™
- Master of Science in Personal Financial Planning – K-State
- Graduate certificate in Financial Therapy -K-State
- Series 7, 66, 9 & 10
- Life, Health, P&C Insurance
In summary, Shawn J. Waked is a dedicated and highly experienced financial professional who combines his extensive knowledge in personal finance, behavioral economics, and financial therapy to help clients achieve their financial goals. His commitment to community service and continuous learning underscores his holistic financial planning and investment management approach.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.
Raymond James is not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, Certified Financial Planner®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization's initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.