AFG has had a lot of growth in the past year, and it has been an exciting time for us. One of the highlights of the past year was bringing on a new Paraplanner, Jake Spradlin. He hit the ground running and is scheduled to sit for the CFP® certification exam next month. He’s been a great addition to the team, and we look forward to seeing his future growth.

Here’s a little more about Jake:

What’s something most people don’t know about you?

I can solve a Rubik’s Cube, and I am attempting to learn how to play the guitar, even though I have not an ounce of rhythm in me. 

What are your hobbies?

One of my favorite pastimes is exploring all the fun that Little Rock has to offer, especially trying new restaurants with my fiancée, Brittany. You’ll often find us walking the trails of local parks with our rescue dog, Luna. I’m a big football fan, cheering on the Razorbacks on Saturdays and the Chicago Bears on Sundays. I’m also a car enthusiast who enjoys modifying vehicles and attending car shows. In addition to that, I have an interest in house plants, wristwatches, and cooking.

What was your first job?

My first job was at 16 working as a maintenance assistant for Independent Living Services, a non-profit in Conway serving adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. I spent my time mowing, assisting with maintenance requests, and helping the team with larger projects. I really valued this role and the handyman skills I picked up along the way. I worked there throughout high school, and it was an experience I’m still grateful for.

Favorite Quote:

“Be quick, but don’t hurry” – John Wooden 

What’s one of your favorite memories from the past year?

Getting engaged at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts! We had a celebratory engagement party afterwards with our family and friends that was very special to us. My fiancée, Brittany Taghizadeh, and I have been together over five years and are getting married October 18, 2025 (one year from today!). 

What do you enjoy about the work you do?

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is witnessing the lasting, positive impact we create in the lives of our clients. The financial planning we do not only helps individuals, but it can also transform families for generations to come. Few professions offer the privilege of building life-long relationships like ours. I have particularly enjoyed hearing the stories of so many of our clients. Another aspect I enjoy is the individualized nature of financial planning. Every situation is different, and I love taking a deep dive into the details to find the most optimal solutions for our clients.

Spring, summer, fall or winter?

Fall is my favorite season. I enjoy this time of the year the most – the weather, the leaves changing colors, the Thanksgiving holiday, and football!

I hope you enjoyed learning a bit about Jake. Many of you have had the chance to meet him over the past year during meetings. As we continue to grow, keep us in mind for college students or new graduates you may know who would find this a rewarding career. We are deeply dedicated to this work and enjoy introducing it to the next generation.

As always, we are here for you. Please email or call if you want to set up a Zoom videoconference meeting or talk by phone.

Mary McCraw, CFP®

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The Arkansas Financial Group, Inc. is a Fee-Only Financial Planning Firm located in Little Rock, AR serving clients in Arkansas and throughout the country.

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