About Piedmont Financial Associates

We are passionate about walking alongside our clients through every stage of life. We take a holistic and personal approach to financial planning, with specialties in investment planning, tax-efficient strategies, estate and legacy planning, protecting loved ones, and charitable giving.


As knowledgeable professionals who genuinely care about the people we serve, we work to align your financial decisions with your values — so your plan not only supports your life today, but also the impact you hope to make tomorrow.


Plans made today can shape not only your future, but the future of those you love — and we honor that responsibility with care and intention. We believe in thoughtful planning without shortcuts, one-size-fits-all solutions, or pressure-based sales. Instead, we focus on building meaningful, long-term relationships grounded in transparency, trust, and dependability. Our mission is to help you reach your financial goals while living generously and with purpose.

James Tobias

James Tobias

FIC

Jay has been serving clients since 2000 and he has worked with clients of all types...those who are just starting out, pre-retirees, retirees and small business owners. Jay loves to help finances make sense for our clients and to help them put a plan in place to get where they want to be. Through collaborative discussions, a formalized process and ongoing reviews, we feel like we can help make a difference for our clients to help them achieve the goals that are important to them.

Title

Financial Advisor

State(s) Licensed
AL, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, ID, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, NC, NY, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV,
Location

Warrenton, VA

Website
https://connect.thrivent.com/james-tobias
Email
james.tobias@thrivent.com
Phone
540-680-2690
Bob Schmiesing

Bob Schmiesing

LUTCF®, FIC

Bob served our Thrivent clients full time for over 30 years and now serves in an Associate role as a part time advisor and mentor to the team. When he's not enjoying time being Grandpa to his grandchildren, Bob still loves to roll up his sleeves and help with the collaborative planning that is required to help our clients achieve their goals.

Title

Associate

State(s) Licensed
MA, MD, NC, NE, VA,
Location

Charlotte, NC

Website
https://connect.thrivent.com/bob-schmiesing
Email
bob.schmiesing@thrivent.com
Phone
540-680-2690
    Sara Beyer

    Sara Beyer

    Title

    Senior Practice Support Specialist LIC

    Phone
    920-628-6522
      Laura Welch

      Laura Welch

      Title

      Advanced Practice Support Specialist LIC

      Phone
      920-628-6522
        Mariah Larsen

        Mariah Larsen

        Title

        Practice Support Specialist - UNL

        Phone
        920-628-6522
          Allison Tobias

          Allison Tobias

          Allison joined the practice in 2025 with over 25 years of experience in medical office administration. She brings dedication, organization, and compassionate leadership to every environment she serves. As an experienced office professional, she understands the importance of efficiency, clear communication, and creating a supportive space for both clients and colleagues. Allison primary tasks include client correspondence and servicing, coordinating all of our client events and onboarding our new clients to their client portals as well. She is committed to providing clients with excellent service and works hard to meet their needs in an efficient manner. Outside of the office, Allison is a proud mother of four and grandmother of two. She values time with family and enjoys vacationing in warmer destinations whenever she can.

          Title

          Office Professional