Riley Saunders, CFP®

Riley Saunders, CFP® is a financial planner at Cassaday & Company. He plays a key role in client relationships, leading meetings and managing financial plans. With a background in the psychology of financial planning, Riley integrates behavioral finance principles into his practice to help clients navigate their financial lives with confidence.

Riley earned his undergraduate degree in Finance from Virginia Tech, studying under Dr. Ruth Lytton to complete his CFP® coursework while there. Shortly thereafter, Riley obtained a master’s degree in Personal Financial Planning from Kansas State University, specializing in Financial Therapy under the mentorship of Dr. Megan McCoy and Dr. Meghaan Lurtz. He is actively involved in industry thought leadership, contributing to the Journal of Financial Planning and serving on George Mason University’s Financial Planning and Wealth Management Board of Directors.

A dedicated advocate for financial education, Riley works closely with Virginia Tech and worked with the FPA NexGen community, helping start up FPA NexGen’s The Blueprint podcast. He also participates in the Financial Planning Association’s advocacy initiatives in Washington, D.C.

Originally from Charlottesville, VA, and a third-generation Hokie, Riley is passionate about advancing the profession, mentoring young advisors, and helping clients achieve financial clarity and security.