Matthew S. Hackler, 40

Occupation: Co-founder and Financial Advisor for Edgewater Family Wealth, Mount Dora

What I do: As an entrepreneur, sometimes you are the chef, head cook and chief bottle washer, but my main responsibilities include financial and retirement planning as well as investment management.

How I got started: In 2012, I was hired by a local bank/trust company. I eventually became a trust officer. I transitioned to financial advising in 2018, which was a relatively natural shift; more broadly focused than trust-specific work, but still in the same industry.

I’m passionate about finance because: The people with whom I work. We help normal, everyday people figure out how to go from accumulating assets while they are working to figuring out how to start using what they have built throughout their life.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far: Co-founding Edgewater Family Wealth / Mount Dora. There is a whole new level unlocked when you become an entrepreneur; more risk, but to build something is an amazing feeling.

When I’m not advising my clients: My spare time is limited, but usually I’ll be found at Disney with my wife and two daughters. If not there, then either cooking and smoking meats, in my shop working on a guitar or car or just working out.

My first job: I worked at the membership desk of the Downtown Orlando YMCA.

My local mentor: There are so many people in the local community who make a difference. We all have something we can offer, and I try to look for that and hopefully help, in some way, to bring that out. Without naming names, because I am sure I’ll forget someone, there have been several senior leaders who have taken me under their wings and taught me invaluable lessons. I’ve also had several pastors here locally whom I greatly admire.

The best advice I’ve received: Mistakes are not the problem, it’s how they are handled and the lessons learned for next time that really matter.

Fun fact: I was a music director for a local church for several years.

If I had a million dollars to give away: With that size of donation, I would look to set up either a donor advised fund, or a charitable trust to make the funds stretch for a longer period of time, but I think there are three main causes I’d support: church, education and health care. I believe those three causes are cornerstones and help shape the direction of a community.

Life after 40: My goal is to continue building Edgewater Family Wealth, Mount Dora so we can better serve our clients and community.