Les Watson, CFP®, CPWA®, CIMA®, RMA®, CEPA®, RICP®, TPCP®

I help clients build a Healthy Plan so they can live a Wealthy Life™.

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YellowWood Wealth Solutions Les Watson, CFP®, CPWA®, CIMA®, RMA®, CEPA®, RICP®, TPCP®
Charlotte, NC

Serving Clients Nationwide

I help clients build a Healthy Plan so they can live a Wealthy Life™.

15 Certified Advisor Reviews™
5 out of 5 Stars
Jump to Reviews

Areas of Focus

  • Business Owners
  • Estate Planning
  • Financial Life Planning
  • Investment Management
  • Retirement Income Planning
  • Retirement Planning
  • Social Security Optimization
  • Taxes

About Les Watson, CFP®, CPWA®, CIMA®, RMA®, CEPA®, RICP®, TPCP®

Hi, I'm Les Watson, Managing Director of Wealth Solutions and Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) at Yellowwood Wealth Solutions, a Financial Planning and Investment Management boutique in Charlotte, NC.

I hold the Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA®), Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®) and Retirement Management Advisor® (RMA®) designations awarded by the Investments & Wealth Institute™ (The Institute). I also recently acquired my Certified Exit Planning Advisor® (CEPA®) designation, helping prepare business owners for their transition into their next act or retirement.

I started my financial planning career with A.G. Edwards and Sons, Inc. from 2001–2007, and worked for Merrill Lynch from 2008 until 2018, when Jason and I opened the doors of YellowWood.

I take a Wealth Management approach with clients, getting to know their specific life, financial planning and investment challenges. After the initial strategy is in place, I communicate with clients on a regular basis to help make sure that changing circumstances haven't created a need to adjust the strategy. I excel at helping clients cope with the emotional aspects of investing, helping to keep their financial goals front and center even during times of tough market volatility and negative news in the media. I am a big believer in helping clients get the most out of life with the financial resources they have!

I recently completed the 12 course Ed Slott and Company's IRA Success Program through the American College of Financial Services®, giving me an advanced understanding of IRA Planning and its intricate nuances as it applies to preparing for Retirement.

I have taught the Investments course for the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ program at both Queens University in Charlotte and at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, and have enjoyed teaching the Dave Ramsey, biblically based financial planning courses over the years.

I have an M.B.A. with a Marketing concentration from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA (my hometown), and double majored at Virginia Tech in Management Information Systems and Marketing.

I am 30 years happily married to my wife Robyn, and have one daughter, Taylor, currently living in Charleston, SC. I have enjoyed CrossFit and working out for many years and enjoy Virginia Tech football (Go Hokies!), live music of just about any kind, craft beer and any travel destination that features palm trees and temps above 80 degrees!

Professional Designations

  • Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA)
  • CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER ®
  • Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA)
  • Certified Private Wealth Advisor (CPWA)
  • Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP)
  • Retirement Management Advisor (RMA)
  • Tax Planning Certified Professional (TPCP)

Primary Location

1515 Mockingbird Lane, Suite 880, Charlotte, NC 28209

Video

Meeting Options

  • Video Conference
  • In-Person
  • Phone

Compensation Methods

  • Percentage of Assets Managed

What to expect in the first meeting

Click the Book Intro Call button above to schedule a complimentary introductory meeting. During our first conversation, we'll get to know you — your goals, your values, and where you are on your financial journey. From there, we'll walk you through our proprietary Healthy Plan process and discuss which of our service solutions best fits your unique needs. We look forward to speaking with you.

Offers Investment Management

Yes

About YellowWood Wealth Solutions

At YellowWood Wealth Solutions, we believe everyone deserves a chance to strive for the financial freedom wealth can provide. Having access to financial advice and investment solutions can be crucial to your success. We engage with our clients in multiple ways because wealth management isn’t a one size fits all solution.

Why Work With Us

Working with a financial advisor should be fun and fulfilling. After all, isn’t that what you want your life to be? We are a privately held, independent financial advisory firm built on financial planning and a team-based approach to working with clients. Our proprietary process, The Healthy Plan, is designed to build custom solutions for each unique relationship so your money can serve you best.

Approach

Our philosophy is to help clients focus on their goals and what will give them the greatest return on life.

Independent Fiduciary

Working with an independent fiduciary legally binds us to place your best interest first.

Expertise

Dedicated to providing sound financial planning services through ongoing learning and development.

Technology

We partner with leading technology developers to provide you sound advice and modernized tools.

Our Philosophy

We strive to help our clients align their financial resources with their values so they can live a full and meaningful life now and in the future. Healthy Plan, Wealthy Life™.

The Healthy Plan Path

We believe that with better guidance, you can live a better life. The Healthy Plan Path is a proprietary process we designed from years of experience working with clients to achieve their financial vision. Our customized solution to your unique goals creates a personalized roadmap to make the important financial decisions in your life. And because life can be crazy at times, we’ll put all of this in an organized binder for you, so your roadmap is always at your fingertips.

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Investment advisory services offered through YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC, a DBA of tru Independence Asset Management, LLC, a registered investment advisor with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Education

Virginia Commonwealth University, MBA, Marketing | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, BS, Management Information Systems and Marketing

Hobbies and Interests

  • Family
  • Football
  • Music
  • Traveling
  • Working Out

Who We Serve

  • Baby Boomers
  • Business Owners
  • Corporate Executives
  • Dual Income Family
  • Families
  • Gen X
  • Intergenerational Families
  • Living in Retirement

Wealthtender® is a trusted, independent financial directory and educational resource governed by our strict Editorial Policy, Integrity Standards, and Terms of Use. While we receive compensation from featured professionals (a natural conflict of interest), we always operate with integrity and transparency to earn your trust. Wealthtender is not a client of these providers. Testimonials may not be representative of other clients’ experiences and do not guarantee future performance or success.

Write a Review


By clicking submit, you acknowledge this review is based on your own experience and reflects your genuine opinion. You also agree to our review policy, privacy policy, and terms and conditions, and give this financial advisor permission to publicly display your review on their website.

5 Stars

✅ Wealthtender Certified Advisor Review™
Jun 26, 2026
										Warm, personal, professional service. YellowWood encapsulates what it means to have a sound and caring financial advocate on your side. We are very fortunate that our advisors know us and understand our needs and goals. The team provides us with objective information and recommendations, which gives us the agency to make informed decisions about our future. We would feel much less confident planning our financial outlook without YellowWood's partnership.									
Relationship to Financial Advisor: Client
Compensation: This reviewer received no compensation for this review.
Conflicts of Interest: There are no material conflicts of interest.
Disclosure: Advisory Services are offered through YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC, a dba of tru Independence Asset Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC. Certain representatives of YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC are also Registered Representatives offering securities through APW Capital, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. With regard to these testimonials and/or endorsements for YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC: (i) the individuals providing the testimonials and/or endorsements are current clients; (ii) the individuals have not been compensated for providing the testimonials and/or endorsements; and (iii) there are no material conflicts of interest resulting from the adviser's relationship with the individuals providing these testimonials and/or endorsements.
Avatar for Lynn Welsh
Lynn Welsh

5 Stars

✅ Wealthtender Certified Advisor Review™
Jun 25, 2026
										This group is fantastic to work with. We trust our financial future with them 100%.									
Relationship to Financial Advisor: Client
Compensation: This reviewer received no compensation for this review.
Conflicts of Interest: There are no material conflicts of interest.
Disclosure: Advisory Services are offered through YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC, a dba of tru Independence Asset Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC. Certain representatives of YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC are also Registered Representatives offering securities through APW Capital, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. With regard to these testimonials and/or endorsements for YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC: (i) the individuals providing the testimonials and/or endorsements are current clients; (ii) the individuals have not been compensated for providing the testimonials and/or endorsements; and (iii) there are no material conflicts of interest resulting from the adviser's relationship with the individuals providing these testimonials and/or endorsements.
Avatar for Karen Oreilly
Karen Oreilly

5 Stars

✅ Wealthtender Certified Advisor Review™
May 27, 2026
										   									
Relationship to Financial Advisor: Client
Compensation: This reviewer received no compensation for this review.
Conflicts of Interest: There are no material conflicts of interest.
Disclosure: Advisory Services are offered through YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC, a dba of tru Independence Asset Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC. Certain representatives of YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC are also Registered Representatives offering securities through APW Capital, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. With regard to these testimonials and/or endorsements for YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC: (i) the individuals providing the testimonials and/or endorsements are current clients; (ii) the individuals have not been compensated for providing the testimonials and/or endorsements; and (iii) there are no material conflicts of interest resulting from the adviser's relationship with the individuals providing these testimonials and/or endorsements.
Avatar for Jim Foley
Jim Foley

5 Stars

✅ Wealthtender Certified Advisor Review™
May 26, 2026
										Tori Waldman and the professionals and staff at YellowWood Wealth Solutions are aces. Their expertise is off the charts. Equally as important is the way they genuinely care about their clients. They treat their clients as if each one is the most important person to their firm. They also interact with their clients in the same manner as they would want to be treated and interacted with if they were sitting on the other side of the desk. I cannot say enough good things about all of them.									
Relationship to Financial Advisor: Client
Compensation: This reviewer received no compensation for this review.
Conflicts of Interest: There are no material conflicts of interest.
Disclosure: Advisory Services are offered through YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC, a dba of tru Independence Asset Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC. Certain representatives of YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC are also Registered Representatives offering securities through APW Capital, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. With regard to these testimonials and/or endorsements for YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC: (i) the individuals providing the testimonials and/or endorsements are current clients; (ii) the individuals have not been compensated for providing the testimonials and/or endorsements; and (iii) there are no material conflicts of interest resulting from the adviser's relationship with the individuals providing these testimonials and/or endorsements.
Avatar for Jay Waldman
Jay Waldman

5 Stars

✅ Wealthtender Certified Advisor Review™
May 19, 2026
										Yellowwood has helped me reach my goal of a successful retirement. The owners and staff are all top notch, knowledgeable and supportive.									
Relationship to Financial Advisor: Client
Compensation: This reviewer received no compensation for this review.
Conflicts of Interest: There are no material conflicts of interest.
Disclosure: Advisory Services are offered through YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC, a dba of tru Independence Asset Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC. Certain representatives of YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC are also Registered Representatives offering securities through APW Capital, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. With regard to these testimonials and/or endorsements for YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC: (i) the individuals providing the testimonials and/or endorsements are current clients; (ii) the individuals have not been compensated for providing the testimonials and/or endorsements; and (iii) there are no material conflicts of interest resulting from the adviser's relationship with the individuals providing these testimonials and/or endorsements.
Avatar for Chuck Hughes
Chuck Hughes

5 Stars

✅ Wealthtender Certified Advisor Review™
Jan 8, 2026
										I have been working with YellowWood for several years through various stages of life and life events. These are great people with significant financial knowledge, excellent communication practices, and enthusiasm for their business to grow AND for their clients' wealth / goals to be realized. I highly recommend this firm.									
Relationship to Financial Advisor: Client
Compensation: This reviewer received no compensation for this review.
Conflicts of Interest: There are no material conflicts of interest.
Disclosure: Advisory Services are offered through YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC, a dba of tru Independence Asset Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC. Certain representatives of YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC are also Registered Representatives offering securities through APW Capital, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. With regard to these testimonials and/or endorsements for YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC: (i) the individuals providing the testimonials and/or endorsements are current clients; (ii) the individuals have not been compensated for providing the testimonials and/or endorsements; and (iii) there are no material conflicts of interest resulting from the adviser's relationship with the individuals providing these testimonials and/or endorsements.
Avatar for Elizabeth Shelley
Elizabeth Shelley

5 Stars

✅ Wealthtender Certified Advisor Review™
Jan 2, 2026
										I’ve been working with YellowWood for several years and watched the firm grow ( as well as my investments:) They have managed to retain a personal connection while providing excellent service. My questions are answered, I get regularly reports/updates and enjoy a good working relationship with my personal liaison. Highly recommend.									
Relationship to Financial Advisor: Client
Compensation: This reviewer received no compensation for this review.
Conflicts of Interest: There are no material conflicts of interest.
Disclosure: Advisory Services are offered through YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC, a dba of tru Independence Asset Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC. Certain representatives of YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC are also Registered Representatives offering securities through APW Capital, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. With regard to these testimonials and/or endorsements for YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC: (i) the individuals providing the testimonials and/or endorsements are current clients; (ii) the individuals have not been compensated for providing the testimonials and/or endorsements; and (iii) there are no material conflicts of interest resulting from the adviser's relationship with the individuals providing these testimonials and/or endorsements.
Avatar for Jane Bycroft
Jane Bycroft

5 Stars

✅ Wealthtender Certified Advisor Review™
Dec 30, 2025
										In all the years we have been with YellowWood, we have never had the need to question any decisions they have made on our behalf. This company operates with the utmost degree of integrity. Trust in management and staff standouts out up front.Thank you YW!									
Relationship to Financial Advisor: Client
Compensation: This reviewer received no compensation for this review.
Conflicts of Interest: There are no material conflicts of interest.
Disclosure: Advisory Services are offered through YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC, a dba of tru Independence Asset Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC. Certain representatives of YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC are also Registered Representatives offering securities through APW Capital, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. With regard to these testimonials and/or endorsements for YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC: (i) the individuals providing the testimonials and/or endorsements are current clients; (ii) the individuals have not been compensated for providing the testimonials and/or endorsements; and (iii) there are no material conflicts of interest resulting from the adviser's relationship with the individuals providing these testimonials and/or endorsements.
Avatar for Walter Kaiser
Walter Kaiser

5 Stars

✅ Wealthtender Certified Advisor Review™
Dec 30, 2025
										We've been working with Les and the Yellowwood team for ~20 years and would recommend highly!									
Relationship to Financial Advisor: Client
Compensation: This reviewer received no compensation for this review.
Conflicts of Interest: There are no material conflicts of interest.
Disclosure: Advisory Services are offered through YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC, a dba of tru Independence Asset Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC. Certain representatives of YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC are also Registered Representatives offering securities through APW Capital, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. With regard to these testimonials and/or endorsements for YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC: (i) the individuals providing the testimonials and/or endorsements are current clients; (ii) the individuals have not been compensated for providing the testimonials and/or endorsements; and (iii) there are no material conflicts of interest resulting from the adviser's relationship with the individuals providing these testimonials and/or endorsements.
Avatar for Anthony Fowler
Anthony Fowler

5 Stars

✅ Wealthtender Certified Advisor Review™
Dec 20, 2025
										The people at YellowWood are what makes the difference. They are experts at managing portfolios to meet their clients expectations. I have been with them since they opened their doors and couldn't be happier with the service they provide.									
Relationship to Financial Advisor: Client
Compensation: This reviewer received no compensation for this review.
Conflicts of Interest: There are no material conflicts of interest.
Disclosure: Advisory Services are offered through YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC, a dba of tru Independence Asset Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC. Certain representatives of YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC are also Registered Representatives offering securities through APW Capital, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. With regard to these testimonials and/or endorsements for YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC: (i) the individuals providing the testimonials and/or endorsements are current clients; (ii) the individuals have not been compensated for providing the testimonials and/or endorsements; and (iii) there are no material conflicts of interest resulting from the adviser's relationship with the individuals providing these testimonials and/or endorsements.
Avatar for Greg Gardner
Greg Gardner

5 Stars

✅ Wealthtender Certified Advisor Review™
Dec 20, 2025
										I have been working with Les Watson since before YellowWood Wealth Solutions and have had an excellent experience with my portfolio, discussing financial forecasts, trends and more. They have been very attentive, professional and a joy to work with. I would highly recommend them.									
Relationship to Financial Advisor: Client
Compensation: This reviewer received no compensation for this review.
Conflicts of Interest: There are no material conflicts of interest.
Disclosure: Advisory Services are offered through YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC, a dba of tru Independence Asset Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC. Certain representatives of YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC are also Registered Representatives offering securities through APW Capital, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. With regard to these testimonials and/or endorsements for YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC: (i) the individuals providing the testimonials and/or endorsements are current clients; (ii) the individuals have not been compensated for providing the testimonials and/or endorsements; and (iii) there are no material conflicts of interest resulting from the adviser's relationship with the individuals providing these testimonials and/or endorsements.
Avatar for Brent Nultemeier
Brent Nultemeier

5 Stars

✅ Wealthtender Certified Advisor Review™
Dec 19, 2025
										YellowWood is a wonderful financial services company. They help with planning as I age, providing money for my grandchildren and investments to add to my retirement as I age.									
Relationship to Financial Advisor: Client
Compensation: This reviewer received no compensation for this review.
Conflicts of Interest: There are no material conflicts of interest.
Disclosure: Advisory Services are offered through YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC, a dba of tru Independence Asset Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC. Certain representatives of YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC are also Registered Representatives offering securities through APW Capital, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. With regard to these testimonials and/or endorsements for YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC: (i) the individuals providing the testimonials and/or endorsements are current clients; (ii) the individuals have not been compensated for providing the testimonials and/or endorsements; and (iii) there are no material conflicts of interest resulting from the adviser's relationship with the individuals providing these testimonials and/or endorsements.
Avatar for Nancy Wilson
Nancy Wilson

5 Stars

✅ Wealthtender Certified Advisor Review™
Dec 18, 2025
										YellowWood Wealth Solutions is excellent. They have been my financial advisors since 2011. They are knowledgeable, organized, patient, and keep me well-informed. I highly recommend them.									
Relationship to Financial Advisor: Client
Compensation: This reviewer received no compensation for this review.
Conflicts of Interest: There are no material conflicts of interest.
Disclosure: Advisory Services are offered through YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC, a dba of tru Independence Asset Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC. Certain representatives of YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC are also Registered Representatives offering securities through APW Capital, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. With regard to these testimonials and/or endorsements for YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC: (i) the individuals providing the testimonials and/or endorsements are current clients; (ii) the individuals have not been compensated for providing the testimonials and/or endorsements; and (iii) there are no material conflicts of interest resulting from the adviser's relationship with the individuals providing these testimonials and/or endorsements.
Avatar for Norma J Holowach
Norma J Holowach

5 Stars

✅ Wealthtender Certified Advisor Review™
Aug 12, 2025
										The friendliest people to deal with especially Tori! They are super responsive to inquiries and concerns and have a vast amount of practical information for your financial planning goals.									
Relationship to Financial Advisor: Client
Compensation: This reviewer received no compensation for this review.
Conflicts of Interest: There are no material conflicts of interest.
Disclosure: Advisory Services are offered through YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC, a dba of tru Independence Asset Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC. Certain representatives of YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC are also Registered Representatives offering securities through APW Capital, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. With regard to these testimonials and/or endorsements for YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC: (i) the individuals providing the testimonials and/or endorsements are current clients; (ii) the individuals have not been compensated for providing the testimonials and/or endorsements; and (iii) there are no material conflicts of interest resulting from the adviser's relationship with the individuals providing these testimonials and/or endorsements.
Avatar for John Philbin
John Philbin

5 Stars

✅ Wealthtender Certified Advisor Review™
Aug 12, 2025
										I have had the pleasure of working with Yellowwood Wealth since 2022 as a recommendation from a close friend, and I can confidently say they are an outstanding financial advisory firm. From the very first meeting, their team demonstrated a deep understanding of my financial goals and provided tailored strategies that truly resonated with my needs.Their professionalism and expertise are evident in every interaction, and they consistently go above and beyond to ensure I feel informed and supported. The personalized attention I received made a significant difference in my financial planning journey.What impressed me the most was their commitment to transparency and education; they took the time to explain complex concepts in a way that was easy to understand. I now feel empowered to make informed decisions about my financial future and couldn't be more grateful. I highly recommend them to anyone seeking a trustworthy and dedicated financial advisor!									
Relationship to Financial Advisor: Client
Compensation: This reviewer received no compensation for this review.
Conflicts of Interest: There are no material conflicts of interest.
Disclosure: Advisory Services are offered through YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC, a dba of tru Independence Asset Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC. Certain representatives of YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC are also Registered Representatives offering securities through APW Capital, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. With regard to these testimonials and/or endorsements for YellowWood Wealth Solutions, LLC: (i) the individuals providing the testimonials and/or endorsements are current clients; (ii) the individuals have not been compensated for providing the testimonials and/or endorsements; and (iii) there are no material conflicts of interest resulting from the adviser's relationship with the individuals providing these testimonials and/or endorsements.
Avatar for Darla Petrosius
Darla Petrosius