With nearly three decades in financial services, Paidemoyo “Pai” Charasika has worn many hats, from bank teller to seasoned investment advisor. But it wasn’t until he aligned his passion with his purpose that his work truly transformed.
Today, Pai leads with heart and strategy as the Senior Wealth Manager at Copperwood Financial, a boutique investment firm serving high-net-worth individuals, business owners, and professionals. He’s also the Co-Founder and Director of Pro Athlete Wealth, a mission-driven affiliate dedicated to helping athletes navigate their financial futures. Whether he’s creating legacy plans for retirees or teaching young athletes how to manage NIL income, Pai’s approach is the same: build authentic relationships, empower with education, and design plans that last beyond the game.
Check out our Q&A with Pai Charasika below…
At Copperwood Financial, I’m the Senior Wealth Manager, working primarily with high-net-worth families and professionals ages 45–75. We focus on intensive financial planning—whether for retirement income, tax strategy, charitable giving, or risk management. We stay agnostic in our investment approach and are strong advocates for private market opportunities like venture capital and private equity.
I also serve as the Director of Sports & Entertainment for our affiliate, Pro Athlete Wealth. There, I help professional, college, and even high school athletes navigate the evolving world of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation, helping them plan both financially and for life after sport.
Where did your vision begin?
My journey started over 27 years ago as a bank teller. While I loved the client-facing side, I soon realized that traditional banking was too transactional. After transitioning into investment advising and building a successful career at major firms, I still felt something was missing. Four years ago, I met Larry Gatz—now our managing partner—who introduced me to a financial planning model focused on deeply understanding clients and building tailored strategies. That’s when it all clicked.
Who are your key partners?
These partners provide the multidisciplinary support that makes our financial plans truly holistic.
What makes your business stand out?
At Copperwood, we emphasize planning first and investment strategy second. At Pro Athlete Wealth, we’re changing the narrative for athletes by offering practical education and support—from budgeting basics to exit strategies. Our financial literacy platform, Athluential, helps athletes become “Champions Beyond the Game.”
What advice would you give to someone starting in your field?
Know where your passion lies within financial services, and let that passion guide the value you provide. Early in my career, I thought being a financial advisor meant being a salesperson. But it’s really about active listening, educating, and building trust-based relationships.
What does “community” mean to you?
After Hurricane Helene, I officially made Asheville home—and I’ve never seen a community more tightly knit. Crises can divide or unite, and Asheville chose unity. Community, to me, is an ecosystem of people with different strengths coming together for the greater good.
Explore Copperwood Financial’s services at copperwoodfinancial.com and discover how Pro Athlete Wealth is empowering athletes at www.proathletewealth.net. You can also follow Pai on LinkedIn or catch more insights on Instagram and TikTok @proathletewealth.