About Your Team

As the founder of Stratton and Company, with over two decades of experience working with retirees, Eric understands their concerns, needs and risks. He’s spent his career perfecting the Retirement Clarity Process to help retirees reduce financial risks and enjoy their retirement to the fullest.

His unique approach helps retirees budget and plan for the things they’ve always wanted to do, as well as the potential risks that may keep them up at night. The result? A customized strategy for everything on their list, backed by secure income.

Sam Magdalein is an Investment Advisor Representative and Partner of Stratton & Company. Since 2001, Sam has worked with the team at Stratton & Co. to help hundreds of retirees protect their assets from market volatility and excessive taxes, and enjoy their retirement with less risk. Sam is a Jacksonville native and spends his free time with his wonderful wife, and two amazing kids, and he volunteers as the Associate Pastor of his local church.

Schedule a meeting with Sam here.

Jake joined the team in 2015, and applies our approach and vision to help clients secure their retirement. He will work with you to help create, implement, and reviews your retirement strategy.

He brings passion — and compassion — to each retiree he works with. Thoroughly listening to review and update all client concerns and goals, Jake applies those insights to your retirement strategy.

Jake also applies his interest in technology and B.S. in Marketing and Psychology to streamline processes so we can operate more efficiently and better serve our clients.

Originally from Indianapolis, Jake enjoys hiking and spending time with his wife and son.

Cindy has been with Stratton & Company since 2003 and works alongside Eric to create custom retirement strategies for our clients. She is involved in every case at Stratton & Company. From the first time you sit down with us, to the final implementation of your strategy, she is here to  assist you.

Cindy has more than 30 years of experience in the insurance and financial service industry. As Executive Vice President of S&Co., she enjoys working exclusively with retirees to help them realize their goals.

Mrs. Collins has given lectures and created retirement resources on a wide range of topics, including women and retirement, the importance of securing guaranteed income and annuities.

Her work has been featured in key publications including Forbes and Wall Street Journalʼs MarketWatch.

Lauren Schultz, CRPC®, serves as the Vice President of Operations at our firm, bringing a wealth of experience and a track record of success in the financial services industry. Prior to joining our team, Lauren held a pivotal role of Business Development Specialist at Vystar Investments Services, where she honed her skills in strategic planning, operational efficiency, and client relationship management. As a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor℠, she possesses deep expertise in retirement planning strategies, ensuring that our operations align closely with our clients' long-term financial goals. Lauren's leadership is characterized by her commitment to excellence, innovation, and a client-first approach, driving our firm's operations to new heights of success.

Paul Groeschel-Johnson, a valued paraplanner with the Stratton & Company team, contributes his experience in retirement strategies and client services, skills sharpened during his tenure at Principal Financial. At Stratton & Company, Paul plays a key role in supporting our financial services professionals, offering insights that enhance our client-focused approach to retirement planning. His dedication to financial excellence and client success firmly establishes him as an integral part of our team.

Amy joined S&Co. in 2013, with a strong background in hospitality and white glove customer service. She leads client onboarding and transfer paperwork, and clients love her for her quick, careful responsiveness, and attention to detail. She makes the process of becoming a client enjoyable! 

Amy moved north to Jacksonville in summer of 2013 with her high school sweetheart and husband of 25 years, Derek. They have four children and a grandson.

Marena Manning is our esteemed Client Care Coordinator, celebrated for her dedication and exceptional service to our clients for over a decade. With an unwavering commitment to client satisfaction and a deep understanding of our clients' needs, Marena has been instrumental in fostering strong, lasting relationships. Her expertise in client communication and problem-solving ensures that every client receives personalized and responsive support. Marena's role is pivotal in maintaining the high standards of care and excellence that our firm is known for, making her an invaluable asset to our team and the clients we serve.

Who will you work with at Stratton & Company? Not just one person, but our whole team will be involved in your strategy. From investments to income, education, to service and regular reviews, there are no "senior" and "junior" planners at S&Co., but rather a dedicated team that specializes in their unique role and works together to craft a plan that is just right for you.