Justin Souder
Justin joined Acorn full-time in 2020 following several years as a dedicated intern. Now serving as Lead Wealth Advisor, he provides strategic oversight to the core advisory team while partnering with families to navigate their long-term financial journeys.
A graduate of the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business, Justin double-majored in Finance and Information Systems and was a member of the Banking and Private Wealth Management Fellows program. Over his eight-year history with the firm, he has leveraged this technical foundation, his Series 65 license, and deep institutional knowledge to deliver sophisticated, comprehensive planning solutions for his clients.
A resident of Arlington, Justin is an avid (albeit struggling) golfer and a loyal supporter of his alma mater, the Maryland Terrapins, along with the other local sports teams. He frequently explores Washington, D.C., enjoying the city’s historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Above all, Justin values time spent with his family, particularly his four nieces and nephews, who remain a central part of his life outside of his leadership responsibilities at the firm.
What do you believe is the most common misconception people have about managing wealth?
People often think wealth management is strictly about “beating the benchmark.” I see it as a much broader practice of aligning a family’s entire financial picture with their specific objectives. It’s less about chasing a number and more about ensuring your resources are intentionally structured to balance your immediate needs with your long-term goals.
What is the most rewarding part of your relationship with our clients?
Witnessing the exact moment a long-term goal shifts from a “maybe” to a reality. Financial planning is often a marathon, and being there for the “leap” – whether it’s the first day of retirement or funding a major milestone like a child’s wedding – is an incredible privilege. Helping families navigate life’s complexities to provide that sense of peace and clarity is ultimately why I find this work so fulfilling.
What core philosophy or favorite quote drives your daily approach to life?
“Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.” This quote from Warren Buffett is a constant reminder that the most meaningful outcomes aren’t accidental. Whether in finance or in life, the security and comfort we enjoy tomorrow depend entirely on the intentional, long-term foundations we choose to build today.
What is a travel destination that completely changed your perspective or exceeded your expectations?
Visiting the Great Wall of China completely exceeded my expectations. The scale of the wall winding through the mountains is something you really can’t grasp until you see it in person. It was one of those moments that makes you step back and appreciate just how vast and fascinating the world is.
What was your very first job, and what humbling or valuable lesson did it teach you?
Working on the cart staff and in the pro shop at my local golf course taught me early on not to let someone else’s “bad round” impact my own composure. It was a lesson in staying steady regardless of someone else’s frustration. I apply that same mindset today when helping clients navigate life’s challenges, knowing that staying grounded is the best way to help them do the same.
What is a hobby, sport, or skill you are currently terrible at but determined to master?
Recently, I have been getting more into chess, though my strategy still tends to fall apart after the first few moves. I’m determined to get to a point where my next move is a surprise to my opponent, not just to me.