President & Founder

Eric L. Dunavant is an author, speaker, consultant, serial entrepreneur, and philanthropist who has spent more than two decades in financial services. A Certified Financial Planner™, Qualified Kingdom Advisor™, and Financial Planning Association affiliate, he is the founder of Paradiem, a family wealth advisory firm built on a single mission: to align family and capital with a 100-Year Vision. Over his career, Mr. Dunavant has helped hundreds of families and business owners build simple, holistic strategies for reducing taxes, giving generously to the causes they love, and preparing their wealth to succeed across generations.

At the heart of his work is a conviction shaped by his own story: most families don’t lose their wealth because of poor investments. They lose it because their intentions were never made clear or passed on. Mr. Dunavant learned this early. His grandfather farmed cotton in West Texas — land meant to be handed down for generations — and by the time Eric graduated high school, it was gone, along with his father’s business and the family home. That season taught him a truth that has guided everything since: financial success means little if it costs a family its relationships and purpose. Sound stewardship, he believes, requires preparing both the money for the family and the family for the money — the half of the equation most advisors overlook.

In addition to his certifications, Mr. Dunavant is a two-time winner of the New Orleans CityBusiness Money Maker award, a back-to-back recipient of the New Orleans Area Five Star Professional Wealth Manager award, and a recipient of Safe Harbor’s Real Man of St. Tammany Parish. He is also an accomplished writer. His book What If We’ve Been Doing It All Wrong? explores the ways our worldview quietly shapes our financial behavior, and At the Bistro with Bob, drawn from the life of a real and cherished mentor, offers a story of building a legacy that lasts. His work has been featured in a variety of media outlets, including the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, and Business Insider.

Outside of his work, Eric is a devoted husband to his wife, Angel, and a father to their three children — Clayton, Austen, and Gracyn. It is the Dunavant family’s deepest desire to impact lives by teaching the power of intentional generosity. In keeping with that mission, Eric and Angel are the proud founders of To All With Love, a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to the fight against world poverty. Eric’s greatest passion is helping families create a legacy — of both capital and character — that endures for generations.

CEO

Drew Brown is an accomplished entrepreneur, international leadership mentor, and CEO at Paradiem. Having run his own leadership and team development consulting business successfully for 12 years, Drew understands firsthand the pressures of leading a family and a company at the same time, without disconnecting from your sense of faith, family, focus, and financial well-being.

As a business mentor, Drew has spent more than 19 years training leaders all over the world to step into their full potential. He encourages faith-centered leaders to dream beyond traditional vocational limits and ask themselves how they can be a true transformational representative of the Kingdom, whether in business, the non-profit space, serving their church, or simply showing up for their family.

Having spent more than a decade in full-time church ministry as a youth pastor, associate pastor, worship pastor, and lead elder, Drew feels a deep calling to equip men and women to carry God’s message into the world and make a meaningful impact through their personal and professional legacies.

From co-pastoring with his wife, Dawn, to developing a ministry training business school based on a Kingdom of God mentality, Drew is an expert at bringing together a Kingdom-mindset and business strategy to create and steward lasting abundance.

When he isn’t serving the Paradiem team and client base, Drew enjoys spending time with his grandkids, reading, playing guitar and singing, practicing Tae Kwan do as a 1st degree black belt, and playing racquetball or disc golf.

Senior Planning Strategist

Carl has been with Paradiem since 2014 and is our Senior Planning Strategist. Carl helps to oversee our personal and business transformation services.

He received a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University in 1989 and worked as an engineer for several years before taking on positions in marketing, strategy development, and business management. In 2007, Carl began serving families by helping them find clarity in what they want to accomplish with the relationships and resources entrusted to them and develop and implement plans to help them effectively accomplish their goals.

Carl grew up in Louisiana, but at the age of 13 moved to Indiana when his father passed away. He has two adult children and is married to his lovely wife, Sherri. Carl and Sherri love to travel and have both been on several mission trips throughout the world.

Chief Planning Strategist

Dani Wauchope has been with Paradiem since 2008 and is the Chief Planning Strategist. Dani works to help families determine what they would like to accomplish and uses her technical skills and expertise to accomplish those goals. She has a gift for communication and the unique ability to bring all parties involved in planning — families and their other advisors — together to create a unified implementation. Dani is not only key to Financial Transformation, but she also plays an important part in the Family Transformation. Dani is a proud graduate of Indiana Wesleyan University, where she graduated at the top of her major with a bachelor’s degree in Management and Business Administration and a minor in Intercultural Studies.

Dani and her husband, Orrette, currently reside in Staten Island, New York. She is passionate about serving and engaging people. In college, she was awarded the Servant Leader award for her service on campus and in the community. She loves serving internationally, creating opportunities to take teenagers to other countries to experience the culture and gain an others-focused worldview.

Chief Relational Strategist

Thea joined the Paradiem team in 2012 and currently serves as the Chief Relational Strategist. In her role, she heads up our Family division, working alongside families to better communication and bring family unity and involvement in the planning process. Thea has a bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in Psychology from Indiana University. Her degree, along with her diverse work history, gives her a unique and creative approach to projects, processes, and family dynamics. She has a gift for working with all personality types and seeing the beauty in differences.

Before joining Paradiem, Thea worked in project management and project coordination for a startup tech company. She felt her previous position was missing the element of working more closely with people and families, which is her true passion.

In her down time, Thea, her husband Dan, and son Jackson, enjoy spending time with family and friends. They share a love for the Cubs and are dabbling in golf. Thea was previously a member of Junior League and has a heart for helping and serving others.

Chief Compliance Officer & Director of Operations

Ray Marie joined the Paradiem family in 2017 and serves as both Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) and Director of Operations, roles that are pivotal to the firm’s success. Beginning her journey as Lead Office Coordinator, Ray Marie’s exceptional organizational leadership and operational expertise earned her the title of Director of Operations in 2020. In this capacity, she oversees Paradiem’s day-to-day functions, ensuring seamless collaboration between planning and investment teams, while also delivering unparalleled support to clients.

As Chief Compliance Officer, Ray Marie leads the firm’s regulatory and ethical initiatives, managing compliance, cybersecurity, and governance policies to uphold Paradiem’s integrity. Her meticulous attention to detail and proactive approach to risk management ensure that the firm stays ahead of evolving industry standards and regulations.

Ray Marie earned a Bachelor of Science degree in General Business Administration from Louisiana State University Shreveport, a foundation that has supported her diverse and people-driven career. Before joining Paradiem, she sharpened her leadership skills as a manager at a local chiropractic clinic, where she streamlined patient care and operations. She also spent 10 years in early childhood education, helping young learners take their first steps — both literally and academically — on the path to success.

Beyond her professional life, Ray Marie is an avid reader and recreational CrossFit enthusiast. She cherishes time with her nieces and nephews and takes particular pride in keeping her neighbors on their toes with spontaneous performances of show tunes (whether they like it or not).

Operations Specialist

Tricia joined Paradiem as our Office Coordinator in March of 2024. Her role focuses on ensuring that our clients receive the highest quality of service.

Prior to joining Paradiem, Tricia spent 30 plus years as an executive assistant working for large corporations, finance, architectural, accounting, and insurance companies. She also currently serves as a member of the Junior League of Greater Covington.

In Tricia’s spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, gardening, relaxing at the beach, music, and practically anything outside.

Senior Research & Trading Associate

Carson Rich is a Research Associate at Paradiem, where he channels his analytical skill and curiosity into research that uncovers opportunities for clients.

From Madisonville, Louisiana, Carson spent five years as a realtor before transitioning into research, a move sparked by his passion for understanding the forces that shape markets and economies. During his real estate career, he developed a keen eye for the housing market’s nuances, advising clients through shifting trends with precision — a skill he now applies to his specialties in geopolitics, economics, and stock screening.

Now based in Franklinton, Louisiana, Carson brings over half a decade of hands-on experience to his role, blending real-world know-how with a systemized approach to research. His favorite moments are those spent dissecting market trends and sharing discoveries, a process he sees as both a challenge and a craft. Guided by his personal motto, “stay present,” Carson ensures his work remains focused and relevant, whether he’s evaluating individual stocks or mapping out global economic shifts.

Beyond the desk, Carson is an enthusiast of life’s simple joys and big adventures. He’s often found building bonfires with friends and family, or planning his next travel destination — hobbies that fuel his love for exploration and learning new things. Married to his wife, Natalee Rich, Carson shares his home with their spirited toy poodle, Honey, who keeps them on their toes. Whether he’s soaking in a new book, tinkering with investment ideas, or unwinding outdoors, Carson’s curiosity and analytical nature shine through, making him a trusted resource for the company and its clients navigating an ever-changing world.

Investment Planning Associate

We’re proud to have Domnic Davenport at Paradiem, where he serves as an Investment Planning Associate. With five years of experience in the financial services industry, Dom works alongside families to create purpose-driven financial plans that align with their values, goals, and legacy.

A 2016 graduate of St. Paul’s School in Covington, Dom went on to study Business Administration at Southeastern Louisiana University, where he built a foundation in client service, strategic planning, and ethical leadership. His approach to financial advising is centered around trust, clarity, and relationships, believing that every family deserves a plan that reflects who they are and where they want to go.

Outside the office, Dom is committed to making a difference in his community. He serves as the varsity wide receivers coach and head 9th-grade football coach at his alma mater, St. Paul’s School. A proud resident of Bedico, Louisiana, Dom’s most important role is being a father to his daughter, Iyla — a driving force behind his passion for helping others build lasting legacies.

Dom’s mix of professional insight, personal purpose, and deep-rooted community ties makes him a valued guide for the families he serves at Paradiem.

Associate Advisor

Matthew joined Paradiem in 2025 as an Associate Advisor, where he works closely with families to help them plan and secure their financial futures. With a passion for both people and creativity, he brings a unique perspective to his work, always aiming to build strong, trusting relationships with the people around him.

Matthew earned his bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Sales from Southeastern Louisiana University in 2022, a natural extension of his enthusiasm for understanding and connecting with people. His educational background complements his work in investment planning, allowing him to approach financial strategies with creativity and insight.

Outside of his professional life, Matthew is deeply involved in his community. He serves at The Wellspring Church as the Youth Pastor, lead guitarist, and worship leader, where he combines his love for music and service. Above all, Matthew values his family life, where he enjoys spending time with his wife, Jessica, and their young son, Elliot.

Matthew’s unique blend of professional expertise, creative passion, and dedication to helping others makes him an asset to Paradiem and the families he serves.

Executive Operations Assistant

Gavin Morel is an operational specialist focused on driving clarity, efficiency, and execution. At Paradiem, he optimizes internal systems, streamlines workflows, and supports initiatives to deliver a seamless and elevated client experience.

He specializes in translating vision into execution — building operational processes, improving team coordination, and ensuring operations run with precision. Gavin earned his Bachelor’s degree in Ministry and Leadership in 2021 from Oral Roberts University and later developed experience across management, sales, and analytics within the finance and energy sectors.

Gavin and his wife, Annie, are committed to building a life grounded in faith, fun, and intentionality. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, spending time with his wife and daughter — whether at the park or on walks — and maintaining a disciplined lifestyle through early morning training and athletics.

Director of Relationship Management

Chris Callahan serves as Director of Relationship Management at Paradiem, where he helps successful families, business owners, and leaders gain clarity around the opportunities and complexities that come with growing wealth. His passion is helping people align family and capital with a 100-year vision so that the people they love and the resources they steward can thrive for generations to come.

A first-generation college graduate of Liberty University, Chris brings a unique blend of leadership experience, relational insight, and strategic thinking to every conversation. Throughout his career, he has helped individuals and families navigate important decisions around legacy, family dynamics, leadership, and long-term impact.

Chris is also the host of the Impactful Leader Podcast, where he sits down with business owners, executives, pastors, and thought leaders to explore leadership, purpose, emotional health, family, resilience, and the lessons learned through life’s defining moments. These conversations reflect his belief that meaningful growth begins with meaningful dialogue.

Chris often describes his life’s purpose with a simple statement:

“I am a shepherd of hearts.”

That purpose shapes the way he serves clients, colleagues, and his community. Whether guiding a family through a visioning process, facilitating a strategic conversation, or helping a leader think through the future, Chris is committed to helping people move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and intentionality.

Chris lives in Louisiana with his wife, Mallory, and their daughter, Elleanna Grace. Together, they are passionate about investing in people, cultivating meaningful community, and building a legacy that extends far beyond themselves.

Financial Planning Associate

Caleb joined Paradiem in July of 2025 as a Financial Planning Associate. He works alongside the planning team to serve families with intentional strategies that align with their values and build lasting impact for future generations. Caleb brings a unique combination of interpersonal experience and analytical skill, helping families find clarity in their financial decisions while pursuing transformation in every area of life.

A graduate of the University of Arkansas with a degree in Finance and a minor in Business Analytics, Caleb has a gift for asking “why” and finding solutions that address root causes. His background includes time working in the small business manufacturing world, where he learned the value of efficiency, problem solving, and teamwork. He also spent years in the hospitality industry, developing a passion for listening well, building trust, and serving people with excellence.

Originally from West Texas, Caleb recently relocated to Covington, Louisiana. Outside of work, he enjoys running, reading, volunteering at church, supporting faith-based media, and investing in the next generation of leaders through his long-standing involvement with the Texas Boys State program.

Financial Management Associate

Sandy Tackett has been with Paradiem since 2008, shortly after the company was founded. Raised in Southwest Louisiana, she has called the Northshore home since marrying her husband, Reggie, in 1995. Together they have three children and six beautiful granddaughters who bring great joy to their lives.

With a degree in Business Administration and a diverse professional background that includes roles ranging from Personal Assistant to District Training Supervisor, Sandy brings a wealth of organizational, operational, and administrative experience to the team. Known for her attention to detail and commitment to excellence, she takes pride in ensuring that every project is completed accurately and efficiently.

Outside of work, Sandy enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, watching reality TV, and serving as an active member of First Baptist Church Covington. As recent empty nesters, she and Reggie are embracing this new season of life by working through their bucket list and taking every opportunity to explore new destinations together.