who we are

About Foothills Retirement Solutions

Proudly serving East Tennessee with work shaped by integrity, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to the people who rely on us.

Built by Advisors With Real Field Experience

Foothills Retirement Solutions was established to address the unique financial planning needs of pre-retirees and retirees in East Tennessee. Many individuals in the area face challenges such as inadequate retirement income planning and complex tax obligations. Our team’s extensive experience in retirement, tax, and estate planning positions us to fill these gaps effectively. This foundation ensures that our clients experience reliability and clarity in every interaction.

Our Mission

Everything we do is driven by a belief that real guidance should feel honest, human, and truly helpful.

Values That Shape How We Show Up for You

Integrity:

We believe financial guidance begins with honesty, transparency, and open communication. We are committed to providing clear information so you can make informed financial decisions.


Service:

We take the time to understand your goals, priorities, and circumstances, delivering personalized guidance and ongoing support throughout your financial journey.


Community:
As a locally rooted firm, we are proud to serve the Maryville and Blount County communities. Through local involvement and community partnerships, we strive to build lasting relationships and support the people and organizations that make our region strong.


Trust:

We recognize that trust is earned over time. Our commitment is to act with professionalism, consistency, and care as we help clients navigate important financial

decisions.

Herbert K. Catledge CF2®, LUTCF®, RICP®

President/Founder

After 21 years of service in the United States Marine Corps, Herbert “Ken” Catledge didn’t just begin a new career—he carried forward a lifelong commitment to leadership, discipline, and service into the financial lives of others.


Throughout his military career, Ken operated in environments where decisions mattered, trust was non-negotiable, and outcomes directly impacted the well-being of others. That same mindset now defines his approach as a financial advisor: clear strategy, disciplined execution, and an unwavering responsibility to those he serves.


When Ken transitioned into the financial services industry, he quickly recognized that true financial guidance is not about selling products—it’s about protecting families, creating stability, and helping people navigate uncertainty with confidence.


Driven by that mission, he built a deep technical foundation by earning multiple professional designations, including  Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow® (LUTCF®), Retirement Income Certified Professional® (RICP®), and Certified Financial Fiduciary®. He further strengthened his expertise by earning a Bachelor of Science degree with highest honors in Accounting and Finance.

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Credentials alone don’t define Ken’s approach. His leadership philosophy is rooted in a simple principle:


People come first—always.


He believes financial planning should be personal, disciplined, and built on trust—never driven by shortcuts or one-size-fits-all solutions. As an independent financial advisor, Ken takes the time to understand each client’s unique goals, values, and concerns, then develops tailored strategies designed to protect what matters most while building long-term financial confidence.


Today, Ken serves individuals and families with the same sense of duty that guided his military career—helping them prepare for life’s transitions, navigate risk, and pursue a retirement defined by independence, security, and purpose.

Because for Ken, financial advising isn’t just a profession—it’s a continuation of service.

The People You’ll Work With Every Step of the Way

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Duncan Smith

Business Development

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Mary Schiefelbein

Operations

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Tyler Prescott

Operations

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Amber Froendt

Project Management

Proudly Rooted in the Maryville Community

We proudly serve individuals, families, and business owners throughout Maryville and the greater Blount County area, providing personalized financial planning and wealth management services. Our office is a welcoming resource where clients can meet with our team, ask questions, and receive ongoing guidance tailored to their financial goals.


As a locally rooted firm, we value being an active part of the communities we serve. Through participation in local events and community partnerships, we strive to build lasting relationships and support the people and organizations that make our region

strong.


We are honored to serve clients throughout Maryville, Alcoa, Knoxville, Sevierville, and Townsend, delivering thoughtful guidance and responsive service as they work toward their financial objectives.

Take the First Step Toward Greater Financial Confidence

Taking the next step with Foothills Retirement Solutions means partnering with a team committed to helping you navigate the complexities of financial planning. We work to simplify the process, provide thoughtful guidance, and help you make informed decisions with greater clarity and confidence as you pursue your financial goals.