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Stewardship.
Teamwork.
Family.

Our Team Delivers Personalized Solutions for Complex Problems.

We believe that financial planning should be so much more than just offering a cookie cutter retirement and collecting as many clients as you can. Everything we do for our clients is based on our shared beliefs in our duty as financial stewards, the collaborative effort of teamwork, and the importance of treating your co-workers and clients like your family.

Our Approach

Wealth accumulators, retirees, business owners, and executives all have varying degrees of financial needs. Oftentimes, busyness or confusion get in the way of achieving financial success.

The reality is that you don’t have to walk this path alone. You can have a trusted advisor that knows your situation and helps plan for life’s challenges.

Our comprehensive and personal planning process takes a critical look at your situation from a tax, investment, estate and risk management perspective. We connect and communicate your needs to our network of professionals,  ensuring your best interests are held paramount.  Our goal is to help you save on taxes, enjoy your ideal retirement, and live a life of generosity and purpose.

Raymond James nor its advisors provide tax or legal advice.

our office
Our Office

Our office is our second home, and we want you to feel just as comfortable here as we do. Have a seat. Grab a snack or a drink and tell us how your day is going so far.  What’s the latest with your family? How is your dog?  

Kids and grandkids are always welcome here. Let them enjoy one of our toy baskets and a capri sun while they sit in the meeting with you, or your older children might enjoy relaxing on the couch for a bit or working on their homework in the conference room. (Many members or our team would be overjoyed if your well-behaved dog wanted to come with you as well).

Our Company

As an independent financial firm, we have no products to sell you, no minimums we need to hit each week. Our only goal is to be the best stewards of your finances that we possibly can be. We will always go above and beyond what is expected of us and provide the highest level of service.

As the local branch of a large company, we can offer you the best of both worlds. Here in Knoxville, we can provide the client focused approach of a small firm where everyone is happy to help and you will never get lost in a maze of hallways or wonder which floor you are supposed to be on.

Behind us we have the resources and knowledge of two powerhouses in SageSpring Wealth Partners and Raymond James, two companies that both believe in the importance of helping you reach financial independence, so you can focus on what’s important—personally, professionally, and spiritually.

Our parent company, SageSpring Wealth Partners, was established in 2002 as an independent organization and oversees more than $5.5 billion in client assets as of November 2021. SageSpring is comprised of more than 60 advisors who care for more than 13,000 clients across the country, with offices in Tennessee, Alabama, Texas, Iowa, and Nebraska.

Raymond James is our broker-dealer, meaning they hold our clients’ assets and provide support to our firm with reporting, statements, trading platform, investment analysis, and other various financial planning technology and resources. Raymond James was started in 1962 and currently has approximately $1.26 trillion in client assets under management.

Raymond James nor its advisors provide tax or legal advice.

Why I Became a Financial Advisor 

When I walked into my first financial office, I didn’t expect it to change my whole life. Mostly because all I was thinking at the time was that it smelled like mothballs.  I’ll never forget that smell as I walked into that shadowed brown-leather lobby.  As I was ushered past the dark mahogany receptionist’s desk littered with notes and stacks of paper, I felt a pit in my stomach.  You know what I’m talking about…that “one of these things does not belong—and it might be me” type of feelings. That feeling did not improve once in the advisor’s office.  As I listened to the older gentleman in the three-piece suit spout off terms like “probate” and “defensive strategies”, I sunk lower in my seat.  “What the heck is he talking about?”, I thought to myself.  “Am I allowed to ask? Should I raise my hand, or just play along like I know what he is talking about?”

why i became an advisor

No, this wasn’t my defense attorney prepping and lecturing me on my upcoming trial appearance.  This was my local financial advisor.  As a newly minted 21-year-old, I was taking ownership of an investment account established for me as a child, and I had been told to come to this office to do so. 

When he was done talking at me the well-intentioned advisor successfully filled out the paperwork for me, and I numbly scratched my “John Hancock” on it. I left that one-sided conversation feeling small and more confused than ever.  “What am I investing in again?  The trades cost how much?  And what exactly is a risk tolerance?” I muttered as I left the office and walked back out into the now blinding sunshine.

“Oh well,” I mumbled as I got in my car and fumbled the key into the car’s ignition.  “I guess this is how financial stuff works”. 

And then it happened.  As my car engine roared to life, so did this question—WHY?  Why does it have to be this way?!  Why does it all have to be so confusing? Why should we accept being left in financial darkness as the status quo?  

Why can’t advisors condense complex ideas into simple action items?  Why aren’t they prioritizing listening over talking, teaching over lecturing?  Or what if they focused on serving over selling?  Whether you’re 21, 51, or 81 you deserve the knowledge and the confidence to understand your finances. And I am sure we can all agree that investing in relationships has equal if not greater value than picking the investments in a portfolio…

That is the reason why I started Cullman Wealth Team.  I will never forget the feeling I had in that office. I never want to feel that way again, and I don’t want anyone else to either. 

In this complex, confusing world, you deserve a trusted guide who delivers clear financial advice and works beside you to cut through the noise

Meet Our Team

Learn more about each of the dedicated members of the Travis Cullman Wealth Team.

Travis Cullman
Travis Cullman

CFP®, CPFA

Senior Vice President, SageSpring | Financial Planner, RJFS

865-686-5202

Luke Powers
Luke Powers

CFP®

Financial Planner, RJFS

865-686-5209
Matt Degraff
Matt DeGraff

CFP®

Financial Associate, SageSpring | Financial Professional, RJFS 

865-686-8457

Erin Phillips
Erin Phillips

Client Services Manager, SageSpring

865-686-8456

SageSpring Wealth Partners Placeholder
Clint Graves

Client Services Associate, SageSpring

865-686-8443

Connect with Us

SageSpring is invested in more than just your finances. We are invested in you.
Connect with us today, and discover how our unique, holistic approach to financial planning can guide you to long-lasting peace and prosperity.

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Our Location

136 Concord Road
Knoxville, TN 37934

865-686-5202

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615.861.6100
SageSpring Wealth Partners Placeholder
Clint Graves

Client Services Associate, SageSpring 

865-686-8443

Clint Graves

Client Services Associate, SageSpring 

A Knoxville-native, Clint graduated from the Webb School in 2013. He holds two bachelor’s degrees, in communication studies and English, from the University of Tennessee—as well as a master’s degree in communication studies from the University of Georgia.  While his professional experience comes from varied fields, Clint’s career has been marked by client-centered service. His background includes work in wholesale building materials, higher education and research, and recreational golf. Clint was initially attracted to the position of Client Services Associate at SageSpring given the alignment of the firm’s humble-yet-assertive core values and client-centered approach with his own educational and professional experience. Beyond work, Clint can mostly likely be found golfing at Beaver Brook Country Club, singing country music at Knox Box Karaoke, or making dinner for friends and family. Clint also teaches communication courses for Miami University and writes academic research when his reading eyes are not too tired.

Erin Phillips
Erin Phillips

Client Services Manager, SageSpring 
865-686-8456 

Erin Phillips 

Client Services Manager, SageSpring

Originally from Massachusetts, Erin Phillips holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Asheville. She has worked in customer relations and office management for over 20 years, and her background also includes experience in education, logistics, and finance.

In her role as Client Services Manager for the Cullman Wealth Team in Knoxville, Erin looks forward to assisting with clients’ daily needs and helping the team to focus on client successes. Erin was drawn to SageSpring because of its company values and the way in which clients are genuinely cared for. Seeing firsthand how SageSpring is interested in helping individuals who need its services affirmed to Erin all the more that this is a company she wanted to be a part of. Regarding the daily office environment, Erin appreciates that each of her colleagues focus on their clients’ best interests and that the team chose to serve in this industry for all the right reasons.

Beyond the office, you’ll find Erin reading a good book, fly fishing, watching college basketball, traveling at every opportunity, and spending quality time with her family (her most favorite activity). Erin is also a volunteer at her child’s school library, and she and her family are very active within their church.

Matt Degraff
Matt DeGraff

CFP®

Financial Associate, SageSpring | Financial Professional, RJFS 
865-686-8457

Matt DeGraff 

Financial Associate, SageSpring | Financial Professional, RJFS 

Matt DeGraff attended Baylor University, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in Finance. After graduation, Matt worked as a financial advisor for a firm in Fort Worth, Texas before eventually joining the SageSpring team.

As a mentee for the Travis Cullman Wealth Team in Knoxville, Matt’s role is focused on assisting Travis providing clients the best level of service possible.

While looking for a company focused on embodying the heart of a teacher and not simply “selling a product,” Matt felt right at home at SageSpring. He enjoys working with like-minded people each day and being able to make a positive impact in others’ lives.

Beyond the office, Matt loves staying active and taking his German Shepherd on walks. He’s also become quite the pro at smoking brisket.

Luke Powers
Luke Powers

CFP®

Financial Planner, RJFS
865-686-5209

Luke Powers

Financial Planner, RJFS

Born and raised in Germantown, Tennessee and a graduate of the University of Tennessee, Luke holds a degree in Supply Chain Management and Economics. While attending college Luke had the opportunity to get an array of work experience from Walt Disney World, Sherwin-Williams, and a local boat dealership.

Luke found himself at SageSpring because of the company’s values and its strong relationship with Dave Ramsey. Our goal of offering families long-term financial planning with a client-first mentality is what separated SageSpring from other potential employers.

When Luke’s not at work, you can find him at home with his wife Bethany, a guitar, and a cup of coffee. Weather permitting, the two of them enjoy spending time on the lake with their family or cruising down country roads on their motorcycle.

**Raymond James is not affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions or services of Dave Ramsey or Financial Peace University.

Travis Cullman
Travis Cullman

CFP®, CPFA

Senior Vice President, SageSpring
Financial Planner, RJFS
865-686-5202

Travis Cullman

Senior Vice President, SageSpring
Financial Planner, RJFS

Growing up in the Lone Star State, Travis learned the meaning of hard work at an early age. Patching fence and feeding cows, Travis spent his childhood as a ranch hand helping his dad maintain 800 acres beneath the sweltering Texas sun. Cowboy boots and blue jeans were not only functional–they were necessary protection from thorns, ticks, and every other “challenge of nature” that ranch work presented!

Travis began his financial planning career with SageSpring Wealth Partners. After marrying his college sweetheart, Travis saw an unfulfilled need in East Tennessee, so he started his own branch in Knoxville to serve the city and the surrounding communities.

Travis’ true calling is working directly with clients, helping them plan their financial futures in a manner that aligns with their values and ensures their families will be confident in their finances. To help meet these goals, Travis leads Cullman Wealth Team and incorporates the expertise of attorneys, accountants, and other professionals to provide exceptional service and advice.

In order to meet the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in the industry, Travis is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER practitioner*. Travis enjoys working with fellow Dave Ramsey fans and supporting Financial Peace University coordinators.

Travis and his wife, Rebekah, live in Knoxville and are active members of Christ Covenant Church. They are enthusiastic fans of Dave Ramsey and the broader message of financial literacy and behavioral change pioneered by Ramsey Solutions. Travis’ work and personal life are both guided by his faith and the Christian principles of honesty, generosity, compassion, and integrity. Outside of work, Travis enjoys music, football, fishing, woodworking, and spending time with his wife and four young children—Bryan, Brynleigh, Tyler, and Zakai.

Raymond James is not affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions or services of Dave Ramsey or Financial Peace University. 

Jeffrey Dobyns
Jeffrey T. Dobyns

CFP®, CLU, CHFC

President, SageSpring | Financial Advisor, RJFS 
615-861-6102

Jeffrey T. Dobyns

President, SageSpring | Financial Advisor, RJFS

Jeff Dobyns is President and Founder of SageSpring Wealth Partners. Passionate about serving his clients, he strives to truly get to know them, understand their goals, and provide them with financial confidence before developing and executing ongoing, strategic financial plans. 

In order to meet the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in the industry, Jeff is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, a Chartered Life Underwriter, a Chartered Financial Consultant, and a participant of the Dave Ramsey SmartVestor referral service program.

Jeff has held executive positions with financial planning firms for more than two decades. He served as VP of Investments of Lykins Financial Group CPAs before founding SageSpring in 2002. Jeff has been recognized for his unwavering commitment to his clients, and as a leader among Raymond James financial advisors, earning membership in Raymond James Chairman’s Council every year since 2008.

Jeff devotes considerable time and resources to a number of causes. He serves as Chairman of the Board of Men of Valor, a prison ministry and mentoring program. He is on the advisory board of The Signatry of Middle Tennessee, which works with families to increase their charitable giving to their favorite causes, as well as the advisory board for Halftime Institute of Nashville, an organization that coaches marketplace leaders to discern and engage in their life purpose. Jeff also serves on the board of Send Musicians to Prison, which shares hope, healing and restoration with the imprisoned through musicians & artists. He is a past board member of Porter’s Call, a Nashville charity that provides free counseling for musicians and their families, and the Martha O’Bryan Center, which empowers those in poverty to transform their lives through work, education, employment, and fellowship.

Jeff and his wife, Amy, are grateful to be raising their four children, Gracyn, Hunter, and twins Tanner and Logan at Christ Presbyterian Academy. Jeff enjoys being outdoors with his family- boating, hiking, skiing, hunting and fishing.

Ramsey Solution’s relationship and agreement is between SageSpring Wealth Partners only. Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. is not affiliated with the solicitor arrangement between Ramsey Solutions and SageSpring Wealth Partners.

Membership is based on prior fiscal year production. Re-qualification is required annually.  The ranking may not be representative of any one client’s experience, is not an endorsement, and is not indicative of an advisor’s future performance. No fee is paid in exchange for this award/rating.

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.