Our Team
F. Clark Denton, MBA
Financial Services Executive
CA Insurance License #0C90732
Business Philosophy
I offer a straightforward approach to building financial strategies, focused around you, your schedule, your circumstances, and your objectives. I take the time to understand your needs, explain different options to you, and earn your trust before offering possible solutions. By working with me, you can take meaningful, manageable steps toward developing an integrated strategy to help achieve a secure financial future. Since your financial situation is bound to change, I work with you over time to monitor your progress and help ensure you are on track to achieving your goals.
BS in Accounting, Carson-Newman University
MBA, Mercer University
Married to Suzanne with three daughters, Emma, Olivia, & Phoebe
Phone:865-588-3533 Fax: 865-588-3522 Email: cdenton@financialguide.com
W. Dean Cates, CFP®
Financial Advisor
CA Insurance License #4504404
MA, Appalachian State University
Enjoys playing music and traveling with his wife, Betsy
Business Philosophy
As the team’s CFP® professional, my focus is on educating our clients on the most efficient financial strategies and tools to help make their dreams into reality. Effective financial planning begins by helping you define your goals, educating you about your options, and tailoring a strategy to make your dollars go farther. Your financial plan is about much more than just saving, investing, and budgeting. It’s about your life, your family, and your future. By working with a team committed to your goals, you can have the confidence and financial independence to take an extra vacation, support your kids through college, remodel your home, or retire on your schedule.
Phone:865-588-3533 Fax: 865-588-3522 Email: dcates@financialguide.com
Scott Shoemaker, ChFC®
Scott Shoemaker, ChFC®
BS in Finance, The University of Tennessee
Enjoys camping and traveling with his wife, Kristin, and kids, Macy and Nickolas, and playing golf
Financial Services Executive California Insurance License: #0H49519; Domiciled in TN
Business Philosophy
The key to a financially secure future is protecting your most valuable assets, looking out for your family, and, if you’re an entrepreneur, taking care of your employees and your business. The future may be uncertain, but you can face it with confidence when you are educated about your options and work with my team to create a financial strategy that can move you closer to your goals, no matter the circumstance. As a Chartered Financial Consultant, I am equipped with a wide variety of specialized knowledge, from income tax strategies to estate planning. I am a lifelong resource for every client, and I’ll be there if your goals or circumstances change.
Phone:865-588-3533 Fax: 865-588-3522 Email: scottshoemaker@financialguide.com
Ed Shoemaker, CLU
Business Philosophy
In addition to offering a broad portfolio of individual insurance and asset accumulation strategies, I am the team’s group medical insurance specialist. We differentiate ourselves through a commitment to exceptional service, decades of accumulated knowledge and experience, and access to an insurance concierge. I serve local small businesses and business owners so that they can simplify their insurance and asset management and put time back on their calendars.
BS, The University of Tennessee
Enjoys time with his wife, children, and grandchildren
Financial Services Executive Arkansas Insurance License: #1115619
Phone:865-588-3533 Fax: 865-588-3522 Email: edshoemaker@financialguide.com
Ian Woodgate
Financial Advisor
CA Insurance License #4497472
I live in Knoxville, Tennessee with my wife Tabitha and our two daughters Rockie and Isla. I love being a family man and family values heavily influence my life both in and out of work. Helping loved ones prepare for their retirement was what drove me to this industry and I've since had a decade of experience working with systems, products, and solutions that have helped Americans meet their retirement goals. Besides family and work, my other passions are woodworking, music, and cinema.
Business Philosophy
Along with a team of professionals, I provide guidance to my clients to help them reach their financial goals.
Phone:865-588-3533 Fax: 865-588-3522 Email: ianwoodgate@financialguide.com
Chelsea Shanahan
Financial Advisor
Enjoys time with husband, Dennis, and their children, Gabriel and Mae.
Business Philosophy
With more than 15 years of licensed investment experience, I work closely with clients to understand what matters most to them. Together, we build thoughtful financial strategies designed to grow, protect, and preserve wealth - so they can move forward with confidence.
Phone:865-588-3533 Fax: 865-588-3522 Email: cshanahan@financialguide.com
J. Shane Michael
Financial Advisor
-BS in Finance/Economics, Carson-Newman University
-Enjoys spending time with his wife Sadie, listening to music, and serving at their church.
Business Philosophy
You may have important financial questions but feel unsure where to begin or who to trust for guidance. Taking that first step is the key to clarity and confidence. I partner with retirees, business owners, and families to create intentional financial plans centered around their goals. When you work with me, you join a team of professionals who will walk with you every step of the way. My goal is to clarify your situation, create your plan, and help you sleep better at night.
Phone: 865-588-3533 Fax: 865-588-3522 Email: shanemichael@financialguide.com