AUTHENTIKOS ADVISOR - Key Persons


C. Brieanna Mason

Job Titles:
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Head Lacrosse

Job Titles:
  • Coach at Valley Christian High School

James P. Bergis

Job Titles:
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Jared Elson - CEO

Job Titles:
  • CEO

Jason Kurchner

Job Titles:
  • Tax Minimization Specialist / President & CEO of Sage Consulting
In his nearly 40 year career, Jason is our go-to expert in Tax Planning and Asset Protection. He takes pride in his ability to solve complex, repetitive tax problems and in effectiveness in risk management. His philosophy is simple, but has proven time and time again to produce powerful results: The Math tells the story. Every dollar saved in income and/or capital gains taxes reduces risks and enhances returns. Jason's practices demand unique data analysis for thoughtful, prudent solutions. He distinguishes himself through the timing, combining, and sequencing of tax law, risk management, and compensation planning. He is an expert in finding tax-free solutions and helping individuals and organizations alike keep and grow their wealth.When he's not minimizing tax exposure, you might find him speaking! He is a sought-after speaker as well as a panel member for national tax planning forums for CPA's, attorneys, and investment advisors.

Julie Martin

Job Titles:
  • Client Experience Specialist
Julie Martin joined Authentikos Advisory's marketing team as a Client Experience Specialist where she enhances customer satisfaction and organizes and runs many of our educational events. Her background in marketing and customer support, along with her accumulated education has made her a tremendous asset to our team. She graduated Cum Laude from Cal Poly in June 2024 with a bachelor's degree in business administration (concentration in Marketing). With her strong leadership skills, Julie has also been tapped to manage Morgan Hill Volleyball Club, handling an array of responsibilities from team management to event planning to social media. She believes a blend of analytical thinking, relationship building, and creativity is key to success. When Julie is not volunteering or working, she enjoys hanging out with her friends, taking photographs, going to the gym, and trying new coffee shops. She believes that you need to get enough sleep and treat everyone with kindness. If you ever see her around town, don't be afraid to say hi and start up a conversation! You'll be glad you did!

Lynda Varada - COO

Job Titles:
  • Director of Operations
With a background in business, public speaking, and networking, Lynda brought a diverse mix of talent to Authentikos Advisory when she joined in 2017 as our Events Coordinator. Her leadership and community-building skills set a new pace for our team, and her adaptability and sharp acumen quickly led to an expanded role as Director of Operations. In this position, Lynda oversees a wide range of responsibilities, supporting our teams across California and Texas. Lynda holds a Life & Health Insurance license and embraces a continual learning mindset. Guided by her motto, "life is stewardship," she approaches each day with gratitude and strives to bring ever-increasing value to the wonderful clients who make up the Authentikos Family. A west coast native, Lynda and her husband relocated to Austin in 2019, where she has since worked alongside James Bergis to grow our Texas office. When she's not at work, you'll find Lynda outdoors. A life-long equestrian and accomplished horsewoman, she is passionate about expanding access to horses and collaborating with the industry to preserve and protect the culture and welfare of these incredible animals for generations to come.

Phon Vilayoune - Chief Investment Officer

Job Titles:
  • Chief Investment Officer

Shane Winter - CMO

Job Titles:
  • Director of Marketing
  • Head
Shane Winter came to Authentikos with a degree in Marketing and boundless energy. He has revamped our systems, automated and enhanced everything he touches. Shane is the magic behind our Authentik Living Series for our clients. As Director of Marketing he manages our marketing channels, optimizes our existing networks as well as creating new and innovative ways to reach our community. As a former college athlete, Shane attended Notre Dame de Namur University where he would go one to be a 4-year starter, 2-year captain and end his college lacrosse career as the number 1 player in the country! This commitment to excellence has translated in how he helps our community connect with our team of advisors to provide insight and options for their ideal retirement. Out of the office, Shane has served as head lacrosse coach at Valley Christian High School, Head Lacrosse Coach for an ADVNC lacrosse club and is on the Board of Directors for the Palo Alto Men's Lacrosse Club. He has been invited to play lacrosse internationally with the British Virgin Islands National Team and has been short-listed for 2028 Olympics! But most importantly, he prides himself on making a "mean turkey avocado sandwich" and "as a world-renowned Line Dancer".

Sherry Neeley

Sherry Neeley brings a comprehensive skill set to her advisory role. With her securities and life insurance licenses, Sherry is committed to empowering clients through financial education, helping them make informed decisions that align with their goals. Her approach is focused on education and building strong, lasting relationships. Sherry believes that financial planning is about finding balance-living well today while planning wisely for the future. This philosophy is rooted in her background, where a deep passion for teaching and helping others led her to financial advising. She takes pride in walking clients through each step, empowering them to take small actions that lead to significant results. Beyond her work, Sherry is dedicated to community service. She and her husband actively volunteer in their church, promote financial literacy within the community, and she advocates for parents of children with learning disabilities. She finds joy in helping others, whether through financial planning, volunteering, or simply sharing a good laugh. Sherry resides in New Braunfels, Texas, with her husband and children. Her love for helping others, paired with her friendly and resourceful nature, makes her a trusted advisor to all those she serves.

Thomas Kerney - Chief Compliance Officer

Job Titles:
  • Chief Compliance Officer
Thomas Kerney has over 17 years of experience in the financial services industry. Before joining Authentikos, he led a turnkey asset management platform. Previously, Thomas was the President, CCO, and CFO (FINOP) of Hanover Securities, a full-service investment bank focused on capital markets for small and medium-sized businesses. In this role, he managed the broker-dealer's regulatory relationships, supervision, due diligence, and partnerships. Thomas also launched a consulting practice that worked with asset managers on corporate strategy, mergers & acquisitions, operations, risk management, and regulatory compliance. Thomas possesses the FINRA Series 4, 7, 24, 27, 53, 57, 65, 66, 79, 99, and SIE. He is an Enrolled Agent (EA) admitted to practice before the Internal Revenue Service and a licensed real estate managing broker. He obtained the Investment Adviser Certified Compliance Professional (IACCP®) from the Investment Adviser Association and Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®) through the Yale School of Management. Thomas earned his Master of Business Administration from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a Bachelor of Science in Small Business Administration from Northern Arizona University.

Yazmeen Tovar

Job Titles:
  • Office Manager
  • Value! As a Client Experience Specialist