PeopleNewspapers 20 Under 40

20 Under 40 | People Newspapers | August 2018 3B

PEOPLE NEWSPAPERS DEBUTS 20 UNDER 40

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n this 20 Under 40 special section, People Newspapers highlights young adults in the Park Cities and Preston Hollow who are making a name for themselves and a difference for their community. During a month-long nomination process, we solicited recommendations from our readers, and through an editorial process, considered career accomplishments, community ties, and philanthropic work to

Matt Renna

determine the final 20. A few standouts helped to widen our scope and led to the creation of the Power Couple and Teens to Watch honorary sections. We find our 20 Under 40 to be exemplary models of what it means to be a Dallasite, and we hope to continue highlighting you, our readers, for years to come.

- Bianca R. Montes, assistant editor

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CREATIVE Company: Boulevard East Education: Cox School of Business (SMU)

The most critical lesson Matt Renna learned from a mentor happened to be the key to being a good businessman: Make a good first impression. Renna turned that lesson into his own personal philosophy, “Start with the relationship - it is the most important thing.” A commercial banker by day, Renna also embodied the “follow your journey” motto to pursue a lifelong passion by opening Boulevard East, a leather goods store in a Knox-Henderson garage, which also sells at DLM Supply. In his free time, Renna volunteers with United Way, Hearts & Hammers, and Habitat for Humanity.

Q: A:

What was your first summer job?

My First Job Ever - selling baseball cards at Left Field (an old shop in Snider Plaza in the ‘80s).

Brittany Underwood

ALICIA RICO CREATIVE Company: Bows & Arrows Education: TCU

By Bianca R. Montes People Newspapers

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s a florist, gracing the front cover of Martha Stewart Weddings is the pinnacle of success.

For Alicia Rico, a Dallas-based florist with a romantic flair for gardenesque designs, that aspiration has already been de-pinned from her vision board.

While landing that “best floral designer” cover has been a significant highlight for the Bows & Arrows coowner, it isn’t the only one. Rico and her husband and business partner, Adam, have a growing following of more than 165,000 on Instagram, have been featured in Harper’s BAZAAR as “best florist,” and showcased their work on the tables of several Dallas events, including Texan By Nature, Fiesta de las Seis Banderas, and the Dallas Arboretum Artscape.

It all began when the couple – both native southerners; him Georgia, her Texas – left Brooklyn to make Dallas their home.

“One of the reasons I wanted to start my business in Dallas is that I felt there

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36 was a need for my aesthetic and style,” the Park Cities mother of two said about her move back to the Lone Star State to be closer to her family.

“In New York City there were tons of great florists and creatives,” she continued, and “I felt like the Dallas art scene was really growing – I felt there was a place for me.”

While at first, Rico said Dallasites weren’t ready for her designs, which she describes as garden imitating nature with a romantic, painterly twist, today she’s a trendsetter in the community.

That community, she said is what makes the Park Cities her home.

Today, Rico said she’s now replaced her vision of landing a Martha Stewart cover with finding a little more balance between her work and home life.

“I’ve been doing so many destinations, which I love to do,” Rico said about the work that sends her to some of the most beautiful wedding locations. “But, I do want to do a lot more in Dallas and get more involved with its activities.”

Spending more time giving back to

Dallas charities and supporting local businesses that cater to her two Bradfield Elementary school children are at the top of the to-do list.

Whether it’s the musical theater and dancing opportunities her eldest daughter loves, such as at DAMPA, Preston Center Dance, and Park Cities Ballet, or educational tutoring at Hola HP and Mathnasium of Highland Park, Rico said she’s a fan of all the opportunities the community offers her family.

That and the fact that she can walk across the street to the Highland Park Village movie theater to catch a flick anytime.

Q: A:

What did you learn from your best boss or mentor?

My father is my business mentor, and he has always encouraged me and never looked down on me. He listens to all of my crazy ideas and never shuts me down! He is a hard worker and makes things happen!

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CREATIVE Company: Akola Project Education: SMU

Brittany Underwood has transformed the lives of more than 600 Ugandan women since starting the Akola Project in 2004.

During her sophomore year at SMU, she met a Ugandan woman who had taken 24 street children under her care. Inspired by this woman, Brittany set out to provide a means of income for women who had no such prospects in their communities. Since then, the project has expanded to the Dallas area to help women in poverty earn a regular monthly wage through handcrafting jewelry, which is carried at Neiman Marcus.

Q: A:

What do you want your last meal to be?

Fasting and praying.

4B August 2018 | People Newspapers | 20 Under 40 “The focus is going to be on one Japanese dish. It’s something that people love, but people aren’t used to having it the way that they will be enjoying it at Namo.”

With the idea to provide Dallas with a unique high-quality food experience, Cohanim traveled to Japan in June where he spent hours at the fish market speaking with fishers and farmers to strike import deals.

To Cohanim, it was not only essential to give Namo an extra level of authenticity in the dishes but to form relationships with his suppliers.

This approach to business emphasizes his philosophy that no one should know more about his restaurants than him.

Q:

BRANDON COHANIM BUSINESS Company: Pok the Raw Bar Education: SMU

By William Legrone

People Newspapers

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or 21-year-old Brandon Cohanim, his first foray as a restaurateur began under the dim halogen lights of his college dorm room.

Between classes and school work, and often in the middle of the night, Cohanim began forming a plan on how to start and

run his restaurant.

The plan came to fruition in 2017 when his poke restaurant, Pōk the Raw Bar, opened its doors in West Village.

Originally from Los Angeles, Cohanim came to Texas in 2015 for his undergraduate work at SMU. He is studying economics, a degree he said goes hand in hand with his ambitions.

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how they can make small meals out of what they have,” Cohanim said.

Among his incredibly busy schedule, Cohanim is working on his second restaurant concept.

The eatery, called Namo, will feature a trademark Japanese dish as its primary claim to fame.

“It’s a completely different direction from Pōk, and it’s going to look so different,” he said.

the Food Network’s Guy’s Grocery Games – her second run will be Aug. 8. A staple in Dallas’ vegan community, the Boom Juice founder and her husband Davio were behind saving Be Raw, the city’s only raw restaurants in 2016. Beyond food and reality television, Ventouras is a proud Armstrong Elementary School volunteer. She’s also served as a grant writer for an anti-poverty think tank helping feed people and prevent food waste in landfills.

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BUSINESS Company: Be Raw, Boom Juice Education: Cooper Institute Since 2013, Jessica Ventouras has brought refreshing health-focused trends to the Dallas area. Some say you can thank her for Dallasites sipping on rose water and turmeric milk. Her innovative approach to food has landed the mother of three on

Q: A:

What is your business philosophy?

It can be better. Forever tweak and improve.

Q: A:

My philosophy is to know every single little thing about your business no matter what it is. No one knows more about my business than I do.

Q: A:

What is your proudest career accomplishment and why?

when beginning your career?

Jessica Ventouras

My grandfather told me “watch your overhead,

watch your overhead, watch

your overhead.” He was right.

of two children, two dogs and a hamster named Cutie Tickles, is actively involved with Operation Kindness, the Children’s Advocacy Center, and volunteering at his children’s schools.

: What is the best advice you received

I’m very fortunate to know three leaders in the Dallas restaurant

scene, their advice is gold: Gene: Don’t work with your spouse.

If you do, try to remember you’re on the same team. Shannon: Trust your gut and “to Hell with” (PG version of what he said) everyone else.

Dick: Everyone is stealing.

A:

What is your business philosophy?

Among those ambitions is his desire to teach people how to live sustainably.

Cohanim recently spent some time in Haiti working with the Children’s Nutrition Program of Haiti, a non-profit organization committed to fighting malnutrition in the Caribbean country.

“We went from village to village communicating with mothers and community leaders about

Q A:

What is the best advice you received when beginning your career?

Jim Mueller

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LEGAL Company: Verner Brumley Mueller Parker Education: SMU Dedman School of Law

Jim Mueller has already earned membership in the prestigious American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers at an age decades younger than most of his fellows.

He was also selected for inclusion in Texas Rising Stars and then for Texas Super Lawyers, both published by Thomson Reuters in Texas Monthly Magazine. The father

I am most proud of being inducted in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers at such an early point in my career. Being included among such incredible family law attorneys across the United States is very humbling.

Q: A:

What do you love about your community?

I love the fact that, in University Park, you can’t walk down the street without running into 10 people you know. It truly is a neighborhood where I feel that my family is safe and cared for by more than just my wife and me.

20 Under 40 | People Newspapers | August 2018 5B

Daniel Terrell LEGAL Company: Stream Energy Education: LSU Law School

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Daniel Terrell may have grown up in Louisiana, but he’s made a significant impact in Dallas. A chief legal officer at Stream Energy, Terrell bases his philosophy on performance and integrity while striving to be a trusted counselor and company leader. Outside of the office, the single father of three boys spends time with Genesis Heroes, a group dedicated to creating safe homes and communities for domestic violence survivors. He’s also a part of Stream Cares Foundation, which supports charities in North Texas. Stream Cares is partnering with Hope Supply, which provides items for homeless children.

Q: A:

If you could tell 16-year-old you any thing, what would you say?

Build a mindset prepared for challenges and adversity. They are a part of your natural environment, so encountering them should be expected, and overcoming them should be in your nature.

Chip Brooker

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We couldn’t just stick to adults when it came to rising stars in the community. These two teens enbody the purpose of 20 Under 40 and deserve an honorary mention. unlike the golden ticket from Willy Wonka. As an added benefit, Truman partnered with Vogel Alcove to donate a portion of each sale towards helping homeless children on the road to recovery.

LEGAL Company: Law Offices of Frank L. Branson Education: SMU Dedman School of Law

What do you get when you combine a love of sports, a passion for mentorship, and a yearning to help those in need? Chip Brooker. As a trial lawyer with the Law Offices of Frank L. Branson, his work has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America, Texas Super Lawyers and D Magazine’s Best Lawyers in Dallas – just to name a few. When Brooker’s not helping resolve catastrophic personal injury claims and complex business disputes, he serves on the Operation Underground Railroad host committee, a worldwide anti-human trafficking organization, and coaches children’s bantam lacrosse in Highland Park.

Q: A:

What would your superpower be and why?

As a trial lawyer, telepathy would be the ultimate superpower. It would be invaluable to know what the jurors are thinking.

Q: A:

What is your business philosophy?

Truman Wilson

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ENTREPRENEUR Company: The Truman Factory Education: Highland Park Middle School

Truman Wilson started his children’s lifestyle company, The Truman Factory, in 2017 with the goal to create a place where children could decide what they wanted to do and how they could go about it in the most fun way possible. Working alongside other children in what the company calls the “Epic Team,” the Truman factory gives its customers the chance to win cool prizes via a candy bar with a code inside, not

I wanted to build a business by kids and for kids that was focused on what kids love most – gaming, tech, clothes, collecting, and candy. I also wanted to do something that gives back to my local community. I want to give kids an epic experience.

Q: A:

What would your superpower be and why?

Teleportation so I won’t be late to meetings.

able for all skin types. Not stopping there, Stener partnered with Cool Earth, an organization dedicated to preventing global warming, to help fight the destruction of rainforests across the globe.

Robert Thetford

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Holly Rampy Baird

LEGAL Company: ONDA Education: Texas Tech School of Law

Growing up an Eagle Scout helped shape Highland Park High School and SMU jurist doctor graduate Robert Thetford into who he is today – an enthusiastic lawyer who believes in family values, undeniable effort, and being prepared. Farley works to advance solutions-oriented conservatism and effective conservative leaders who get results for our community, region, and state. Along with his wife, Staci, Thetford serves on several boards at University Park United Methodist Church, including the church council.

Baird was named one of D Magazine’s Best Lawyer’s Under 40 and one of the top lawyers in the state by Thomas Reuters. She’s also been named one of the top up-andcoming attorneys in Texas by Reuters. As an attorney with the Park Cities-based boutique family law firm Orsinger, Nelson, Downing & Anderson, Baird works with clients in Highland Park, University Park, and Preston Hollow who find themselves facing a divorce.

Q: A:

What fictional world or place would you like to visit?

The Wall from Game of Thrones.

During the Texas summer, it’s nice to know that winter is coming.

A

If you could tell 16-year-old you anything, what would you say?

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LEGAL Company: Private Practice Education: SMU Dedman School of Law

Q:

Q: A:

What is your business philosophy?

: To offer the highest level of representation possible to each client, while always being mindful of the emotional and financial needs of the family, as well as the efficiency of the path being taken.

Sophia Stener

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ENTREPRENEUR Company: Mali Mali Education: The Episcopal School of Dallas Sophia Stener suffered from sensitive skin growing up, often resulting in hives whenever she would try on clothes or walk through a supermarket. Although there were solutions out there, many of them had adverse side effects. After finding no answers to the problem, Stener decided to do her research by studying substances used for medicinal purposes by cultural groups – while still in high school – and developed the brand Mali Mali. Her company makes plant-based skin cream and lip oil suit-

Well, that was just two years ago, but I would probably suggest being more open to vulnerability. At first, I would shy away from embracing my fears and going out on my own and selling.

I have learned in these past few years just how important and valuable it is to put a face behind a brand to drive sales and pique interest.

Q:

Where is the best place for a business power lunch in the Park Cities or Preston Hollow and why?

Royal Blue Grocery! Far and away, Royal Blue is the best place to grab lunch or coffee for work. The atmosphere and vibes are incredible and fun.

A:

6B August 2018 | People Newspapers | 20 Under 40

Alex Perry

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REAL ESTATE Company: Allie Beth Allman & Associates Education: SMU

Real estate agent Alex Perry, an SMU graduate with a real estate finance degree from the Cox School of Business, made his way to Texas by way of Los Angeles and Rhode Island. He has been honored as one of D Magazine’s Best Real Estate Agents five years in a row, and is part of the top producing group at Allie Beth Allman & Associates – all while volunteering at Big Brothers of Texas, St. Jude’s Underwriting Committee, and Habitat for Humanity. When he actually takes time off, he enjoys hitting the links at Dallas’ Brook Hollow Golf Club.

Q: A:

What is your proudest career accomplishment?

KELLY CARDEN BUSINESS Company: Cryo1one Education: Boston University

By Tim Glaze

People Newspapers

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hen Kelly Carden left her corporate job to start her own cryotherapy business, the dubbed “cold therapy” was relatively an unknown way to fight inflammation.

At the time, there were only 30 therapy stations in the whole country.

Now, three years later, the Preston Hollow resident is about to open her third spa in north Dallas.

The 32-year-old is the owner of Cryo1one, located in the Preston Royal Village shopping center.

There is also a Cryo1one on Cedar Springs Road in Dallas, and a soon-to-be location at The Shops at Legacy in Plano.

Multiple centers were necessary after the benefits of cryotherapy spread like wildfire, Carden said.

“Starting Cryo1one three years ago and seeing it expand to more locations is by far my proudest moment,” she said. “I absolutely love seeing all of the people we have helped with chronic pain and inflammation through the business. I also enjoy seeing the culture and Cryo1one community we have created, which sets our business apart from our competitors.”

Cryotherapy originated in Japan as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis in the late 1970s, and was popular in Europe for decades before its demand in the United States.

BIANCA R. MONTES

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Carden said she’s seen near-immediate improvement in some patient’s ailments after as little as one treatment.

“I’ve had people come up to me after their very first session, and they can’t believe how much better they feel already,” she said.

While in the sauna, temperatures can drop to as low as -202 degrees, Carden said she hasn’t tried that level.

“I’m good with the [first level], the -167 degrees,” she said. “I’ve been doing cryotherapy for three years and I still can’t do -202.”

Besides cryotherapy, Carden is also passionate about helping animals.

She adopted her dog, Bella, ten years ago, and has volunteered at Artists for Animals and Operation Kindness.

Carden and Bella are nearly inseperable, with the dog often visiting the Preston Hollow location - to the delight of the customers.

Carden has also created a company called Fixin’ To Save, which offers free spaying and neutering to pets of low-income families.

“We have prevented over 1 millions unwanted births in Dallas-Fort Worth, which has greatly improved the animal overpopulation epidemic that this area experiences,” she said.

Whether it’s helping animals or improving the lives of people through cryotherapy, Carden has called Preston Hollow home for her endeavors - even though she lives in Dallas.

“While Dallas is my city, Preston Hollow

Becoming a well-respected agent in the market with my peers. Having the respect of the people you work with every day allows you to grow in the business you are in and gives you the confidence to reach any height.

Nina Sachse for sure is my home,” she said.

“I have met the most interesting and nice people the last three years owning a business at Preston Royal.

“Everyone is so supportive of Cryo1one and is genuinely excited for the businesses success. Although it may be a big neighborhood, it feels very well connected.”

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REAL ESTATE Company: The Rhodes Group at Compass Education: SMU

Q: A:

What is your fondest Park Cities or Preston Hollow memory?

Bringing puppy yoga to Dallas and being able to see over 200 Park Cities/ Preston Hollow residents come together for such a worthy cause.

Q: A:

Where is the best place for a business power lunch in the Park Cities or Preston Hollow and why?

TJ’s in Preston Royal. I love supporting my fellow business owners who equally care about customer service and quality like I do.

After attending school at SMU, Nina Sachse couldn’t imagine leaving her adopted hometown. So, she stayed and went on to become an indelible member of the Park Cities and Dallas communities and business world as a real estate agent where her approach to service mirrors her approach to her work as a real estate agent: energetic, innovative, diligent, and focused. Her philanthropic work includes chairing the Cattle Baron’s Ball, and she has been a member of the Junior League of Dallas since 2009.

Q: A:

Where will we find you enjoying your hard-earned time off?

You will find me at home with my family, on the Katy Trail, and at The Pilates Barre.

20 Under 40 | People Newspapers | August 2018 7B – she is heavily involved at her children’s schools as a room mom, vice president of fundraising, and even the chairman of the school’s carnival. Cocotos began her career in medical sales at a Fortune 500 company before moving into real estate where she’s continued her education by obtaining her Texas Real Estate Broker License, graduating from the Metrotex Leadership Program, and obtaining her GRI Certification.

Q Kimberly Cocotos 39 A :

houses in three different states. A Park Cities native, Thompson attended The Episcopal School of Dallas through sixth grade before heading off to New Mexico, and then California. The third-generation real estate professional loves to give back to her community, and is involved in the Junior League of Dallas, the Dallas Cotillion Club, and the Slipper Club of Dallas. She also is an active volunteer at the Perot Museum.

which one would you choose?

REAL ESTATE Company: Virginia Cook, Realtors Education: Texas Tech University

Kimberly Cocotos wears many hats, and she wears them all well. Besides being selected as a D Magazine “Best of D” in the real estate category and a top producer at Virginia Cook, Realtors – a goal she set for herself and achieved in five years

Rogers Healy

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REAL ESTATE Company: Rogers Healy and Associates Education: SMU

Southern Charm, the cast always knows how to enjoy the southern culture.

Q A:

: What is your proudest career

accomplishment?

The first time I was a top producer. I had set my goal of hitting it before my fifth year in the business. I had a baby during that time, which made it a little hard, but it all worked out.

Taylor Gromatzky

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REAL ESTATE Company: Dave Perry-Miller Real Estate Education: Texas Tech University

Q: : A 30

What is your proudest career accomplishment?

: If you could be on a reality TV show,

Caroline Thompson

REAL ESTATE Company: Jobst Randall Group at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty Education: University of Arizona Caroline Thompson ended up in Dallas as an up-and-coming real estate agent, but her path to North Texas wound through 18

Ace Lahli

Real estate has so many victories, like negotiating the best outcome for your client, and making both parties have a win-win experience.

But the biggest yet was selling over $3.5 million in properties in a week.

Q: A:

What did you learn from your best boss or mentor?

Get creative in order to get things done, and never taking no for an answer.

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REAL ESTATE Company: Dave Perry-Miller Real Estate Education: UTD

FOLLOW MORE ON

SOCIAL MEDIA Rogers Healy’s ties to the special needs community in the Park Cities and North Texas run deep. The SMU and Highland Park High School alumnus is involved in Autism Awareness, Miles for Mazy, and a laundry list of other organizations and nonprofits. He enjoys spending time assisting at Operation Kindness. His company, Rogers Healy and Associates, eclipsed the $1 billion sales mark a short while ago.

Healy is also a proud dog-dad father of three – Amigo, Batman, and Coach.

Q: A:

What did you learn from your best boss or mentor?

My dad’s selfless approach to every aspect of his life has led to his success, which has nothing to do with finances. In 1995, my parents decided to move us to the Park Cities from South Texas, just so we could attend the schools. To me, a mentor is someone you want to be like because you have the opportunity to be like them. I’ve wanted to be my dad for my entire life, and I’ll always chase that dream.

A lifelong member of Highland Park United Methodist Church and avid volunteer with longtime Dallas nonprofit Hope Cottage Pregnancy and Adoption Center, Taylor Gromatzky’s passion for community and generous attitude off the clock mirrors her role as a real estate agent. She has been a top producing agent at Dave Perry-Miller Real Estate five out of the past six years where she and her mother, Kim, work as a team. When she’s not treating clients to brunch at Hillstone, the Dallas native is either traveling or relishing in Park Cities traditions, such as sitting at the corner of Preston Road and McFarlin Boulevard to watch the Park Cities Fourth of July Parade – just like she did as a child.

Q A:

: What do you love about your community?

I love the way the community comes together whether something not

so good or something great has happened.

Q: A:

What did you learn from your best boss or mentor?

Patience is key. And, to always be able to laugh at yourself.

Ace Lahli used to drive through the Park Cities as a child, staring in amazement at the large, beautiful houses that are synonymous with the area. Now, he’s selling those very homes. In two years as a real estate, agent Lahli sold almost $20 million in volume while dealing with units ranging from condos to mansions. He’s a member of the Dallas Millennial Club and participates in countless volunteer opportunities through his firm, Dave Perry-Miller. As a resident of Uptown, Lahli loves being able to walk everywhere, and he’s a big fan of the beach, steak, Game of Thrones, and the television show Million Dollar Listing: LA.

Q: A:

What inspires you?

Knowing that people trust me with the biggest asset they have, whether it is a $150,000 condo in Uptown or a $4.5 million estate in Preston Hollow. Having that trust and confidence put in me lets me know that people believe in me, which in turn helps me believe in myself.

The more I do that, the more I realize that any goal I set forth can be achieved.

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8B August 2018 | People Newspapers | 20 Under 40 Drawing on her experience as an athlete, Collins, who serves on the SMU Athletic Forum Board, continues to pursue that dream in full force but also has learned that weathering the ups and downs has helped her succeed in reaching her goals and be happier with the work she is doing.

a lesson that has played no small part in her rise to leading the Day School. In her off time, Good loves to hang out with her husband and two boys at parks, zoos, and wherever else nature can be found.

Q: A:

If you could tell 16-year-old you anything, what would you say and why?

Sarah Good

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EDUCATION Company: Highland Park Presbyterian Day School Education: Dallas Baptist University

A former teacher and currently the executive director at Highland Park Presbyterian Day School, Sarah Good has dedicated the past eight years of her life to educating children in the Dallas area.

During that time, Good has run into her fair share of work related dilemmas, but through those trials she has learned the importance of standing up for what’s right,

16 wasn’t an easy time for me, but I wish I would have known that many of the hard things weren’t significant in the long run. I would tell myself to focus on being the truest me I could be, and to keep my head up.

That everything was going to be alright, and that my story takes a happy turn!

Q A:

: What would your superpower be and why?

I wish I could automatically and clearly see what’s going on in someone’s heart when they bring their issues to me. Then, I could always respond with empathy and with understanding, and better meet their needs.

Q: A:

What do you love about your community?

Genevieve Collins

I love that Dallas is a city of optimists who dream big and accomplish even bigger goals. I love that people here are friendly, honest and thoughtful. Dallas is one big, small town... despite all its glitz and glamour - it is a place where people strive to be and do good.

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EDUCATION Company: Istation Education: SMU

Q: A:

Looking toward the future of education, Genevieve Collins dreams of better educational infrastructure for generations of incoming and current students. Last year, the Highland Park High School alumna took that dream to the White House, pitching Vice President Mike Pence on how the United States can improve the educational system.

Where is the best place for a business power lunch in the Park Cities or Preston Hollow?

Sevy’s. Great food, fast service, easy parking.

While many of our 20 Under 40 are rising stars in their own right, The Hammel’s follow-your-dream story made them the perfect couple to highlight in an honorable mention.

Scott Company: Atlas Wealth Advisors Education: University of Texas

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Q: A:

If you could tell 16-year-old you anything, what would you say?

Allow the journey to unfold in its own time, it’s easy to be impatient, especially in business. Some of the best moments came after I stopped pushing so hard.

The Hammel’s love for giving back has manifested itself into a new career for GeeGee and a slew of volunteer work for Scott.

It’s just the way they want it to be.

The couple attends Highland Park United Methodist Church along with their two children, Hadley and Hayden. GeeGee Hammel is the accounting and finance director for HPUMC (she also teaches Sunday School). Scott Hammel, who runs his financial practice, is a member of an HPUMC small group, volunteers at the church’s cafe, and is scheduled to go on a mission trip soon to the Dominican Republic.

All of this wasn’t possible for the Hammel couple until they made drastic career moves: Both left their jobs.

GeeGee dove headfirst into volunteer work at her church, and Scott became his own boss – and gained plenty of extra time with his family – by opening Atlas Wealth Advisors.

Both Scott and GeeGee said that quitting

GeeGee

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Company: Highland Park UMC Education: University of California Santa Barbara

Q: A:

What did you learn from your best boss or mentor?

She taught me to “dig in, roll your sleeves up, and figure it out.”

their other jobs and pursuing their passions was life-changing.

“Quitting my job in 2007 to start a financial planning practice is the proudest moment of my life,” Scott said. “GeeGee and I moved from San Diego, and she had no job, and we had virtually no money. We had to live very, very frugally, and we love to reminisce about it because it really brought us closer and helped us define who we did and did not want to become if we ever became fortunate enough to have any kind of wealth.”

Also, for GeeGee, choosing to focus on her family and faith was an easy decision.

“My family is the reason I decided to leave my corporate career to find more balance in my life and to give back to my community through my gifts and talents,” she said.

The power couple even has a weekly lunch date at Below 40 Poke House.

“That’s when we discuss important business matters, like our marriage,” GeeGee said.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING CONTENT

JIM MUELLER FAMILY LAW

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egal battles are tough; add divorce to the mix and they seem impossible. Board certified in family law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, Jim Mueller is a caring and reputable family lawyer who goes above and beyond in his work.

Mueller, who specializes in complex divorce, custody battles and property division, is one of the youngest members ever to be initiated into the prestigious American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. He has represented the Dallas area for the past 12 years as the managing partner of Verner Brumley Mueller Parker. His courtroom expertise succeeds his years and he skillfully serves his clients with honesty and hard work.

Mueller makes his cases a priority and strives to make a positive impact on his clients during a difficult process.

Known for his integrity, Mueller stands out as a respected and dedicated attorney in the courts and among his peers.

He has been recognized time and time again as a top lawyer locally and nationally. Mueller has also been elected President by the National Advocates Top 40 Under 40 and recognized in Best Lawyers in America and Texas Super Lawyers.

Not only is he passionate about his work, but the Dallas community as well.

He serves Operation Kindness, Jonathan’s place and the Akola Project with his family and firm. Mueller is inspired by his wife, Olivia, and two children, Leisel and Boone, as well as his clients. “I truly want to make my family proud and help my clients get to a point where they are happy, supported, and confident in themselves and their future.

EDUCATION B.A., Rhodes College; J.D., Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law CONTACT Verner Brumley Mueller Parker 4311 Oak Lawn Avenue, Suite 450 Dallas, Texas 75219 214-526-5234 | jmueller@vernerbrumley.com