Georgia-based independent firm selects RFG for integrated platform, operational support and institutional investment capabilities
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – March 3, 2026— RFG Advisory (“RFG”), an innovator in the wealth management industry dedicated to helping independent financial Advisors build their business without compromise, today announced the addition of Black Oak Asset Management (“Black Oak”), an established independent advisory firm based in Alpharetta, Georgia managing more than $200 million in client assets. Led by Ryan Ledden, CFP®, RICP®, the firm serves clients across the Southeast.
This affiliation is grounded in a planning-centric approach to wealth management and enables the firm to enhance scale, consistency and execution while preserving its independence and longstanding client relationships.
“Firms like Black Oak are why RFG exists—for Advisors who refuse to compromise on ownership, growth, or the future they’re building,” said Shannon Spotswood, CEO of RFG Advisory. “Ryan and his team have built a deeply client-focused business grounded in planning, education and long-term relationships. RFG provides the infrastructure, resources, and support that allow firms like Black Oak to scale deliberately while preserving what makes their business unique.”
Black Oak selected RFG for its integrated technology, streamlined operations, institutional-quality investment management, and access to specialized teams across operations, client service and marketing. The firms also share strong cultural alignment around independence and client-first advice.
“From the beginning, our priority was finding a partner that could elevate how we deliver for clients without changing who we are,” Ledden said. “RFG provides the scale, execution and strategic support we need to continue growing while staying true to our values and maintaining the independence that matters to both our team and our clients.”
Black Oak joins RFG with a five-advisor team including Ledden; Nick Morgan; RICP®; Autumn Mower; Damon Gibbs; and Rick Howard, supported by Andrea Roche, project manager and advisor support, and Chloe Miller, client service associate.
“We are excited to welcome Black Oak to the RFG community,” said Ed Swenson, president of RFG Advisory. “Their commitment to culture and exceptional client service aligns closely with RFG’s mission to equip Advisors with the resources, integrated technology, and strategic partnership needed to build enduring businesses and serve clients at the highest level.”
The addition of Black Oak advances RFG’s strategy of partnering with growth-minded independent firms and Advisors who want to elevate execution, streamline operations, and deliver a more differentiated client experience while building long-term enterprise value.