Joel Johnson, Managing Partner of Johnson Brunetti, has been in the financial services industry since 1989. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, Joel and his team have helped thousands of families develop their own individualized retirement plans based on the unique needs of those approaching this next chapter. Starting from humble beginnings but developing a strong work ethic early on, Joel’s grandfather taught him that by serving others first and creating value for someone else, you will never have to worry about money. These important life lessons were the driving force in establishing a firm that stands for integrity and exceeding customer expectations. The goal of Johnson Brunetti is to create a sense of confidence as individuals head into retirement.

Through Joel’s leadership, Johnson Brunetti has grown as a retirement and investment firm, with a dedicated team of financial advisors and neighborhood offices located throughout Connecticut, Massachusetts, and the Greater Atlanta area. Joel is the host of several weekend morning financial segments: WFSB Channel 3’s “Better Money,” WCVB Channel 5’s “Better Money Boston,” and NBC CT’s “Retire Wiser.” He also started a financial radio show and podcast series which feature the Johnson Brunetti team of advisors. The “Money Wisdom” radio show airs weekend mornings on WTIC NewsTalk 1080 and the “Money Wisdom” podcast series can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other streaming apps. Additionally, Joel has authored numerous books on retirement planning, including “The Money Map,” and has contributed articles to The Hartford Business Journal, Forbes, and the Journal Inquirer.

Joel has been instrumental in creating a team environment at Johnson Brunetti, making him a well-sought-out mentor within the financial services industry. Through the years, his passion for helping others has inspired both him and Johnson Brunetti to donate money and resources to numerous non-profits, including The Salvation Army, Veterans Association of America, Wounded Warrior Project, Dress for Success, Make-A-Wish®, Camp Courant, St. Jude, and many others.

Joel and his wife, Wendy, have four sons. He loves hockey, music, and traveling.

Eric Hogarth is a partner at Johnson Brunetti and is a member of our team of financial advisors. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, Eric has been in the financial services industry since 2003. Eric holds the Series 65 license, as well as Life, Health, Long-Term Care, Accident, and Property & Casualty licenses. Eric values the trust that his clients put in him, and truly enjoys working with them. One thing that Eric loves about his job is being able to help his clients prepare for one of the most important times in their lives – their retirement years. Eric’s honest approach and ability to decipher and explain complex financial situations in a clear, direct manner makes him a true partner to his clients.

Eric loves spending time at the beach with his wife Megan, their three children—Parker, Haley, and Jack—and their dog Tucker. He is very involved in his community coaching tee-ball, softball, soccer, and basketball teams. Eric also participates in local basketball, volleyball, and softball leagues. Eric and his family enjoy cheering on his alma mater, the UConn Huskies, for all sports!

Heath Grossman has been a member of our team of financial advisors since 2012. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, Heath takes great care in assisting his clients to make prudent, well-informed financial decisions. His diverse experience in positions at various financial institutions has included asset management, financial advice, insurance, and independent research. This knowledge has given him a unique vantage point that influences his approach to guiding his clients. Heath holds his Series 66 license as well as a Life & Health license.

Heath loves spending time with his wife, Jetaun, and twin sons. He is a National Ski Patrol certified Alpine Ski Patroller and in his spare time can be found enjoying music, traveling, exercising, and cooking.

What is your favorite part about working at Johnson Brunetti?

“My favorite part about working at Johnson Brunetti is the positive impact we can have upon people’s lives.  Our clients have worked for years to save up their nest egg and managing it in the right manner can be the key to a prosperous retirement.”

As a financial advisor, Josh has extensive experience and a passion for guiding clients toward their financial objectives. With certifications such as FINRA Series 7 and 66, along with the CRPC® designation, Josh is equipped to deliver comprehensive and customized financial planning solutions.

In his role, Josh is skilled in preparing, presenting, and implementing customized retirement plans designed to meet individual goals. He emphasizes the importance of building and nurturing strong client relationships and is dedicated to guiding clients through every aspect of their financial journey.

Outside of work, Josh enjoys staying active and spending quality time with his wife, Sarah, and their daughter, June.

What is your favorite part about working at Johnson Brunetti?

“Everyone has been helpful and friendly!”

Heather Atkins is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional who joined Johnson Brunetti in 2019 and has over a decade of experience in the financial services industry. As a financial advisor, Heather specializes in creating comprehensive financial plans for individuals and families, and she is dedicated to empowering women through educational workshops focused on financial independence. She holds a Series 65 license, Life & Health licenses, and the Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor designation (CRPC®). Heather is also a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® professional. Celebrated as one of Hartford Business Journal’s 2024 “40 Under 40” honorees, Heather continues to make a significant impact in her field.

Outside of her professional life, Heather enjoys spending time with her dog Taz at the dog park, playing card and board games, and trying new restaurants. She has an ambitious goal of visiting all 50 states by the age of 50. As an active member of the community, Heather provides financial education presentations through Dress for Success and is a member of the Junior League of Hartford, having served on various committees with them.

What is your favorite part about working at Johnson Brunetti?

“My favorite part of working for Johnson Brunetti is the team camaraderie.”

The annual 40 Under 40 Award recognizes outstanding young professionals in the Greater Hartford Region that are excelling in their industries. The award is based on an individual’s cumulative career achievements. Heather was presented the Award in 2024.  No compensation has been provided in connection with obtaining or using this award. For additional information click here: (https://johnsonbrunetti.com/financial-resources/press-releases/celebrating-heather-atkins-2024-40-under-40-honoree/)

Marlin Breard, CFP®, RICP®, joined Johnson Brunetti in 2022 and has been in the financial services industry throughout the Atlanta region since 2009. Marlin strives to become his client’s trusted advisor; helping them make the complexities simple and their plan understandable. Retirement is a long-anticipated phase of life where each day should be focused on what matters most. Marlin holds the Series 7 and 66 licenses, the Life and Health Insurance license, is certified to sell Long-Term Care insurance in Georgia and holds a Behavioral Financial Advisor® (BFA™) certification. 

Marlin and his wife, Elaine, are a blended family of six. He was a full-time single Dad of two boys (Jhean and Beau). She was a full-time single mom of two girls (Kayla and Maddie). They consider themselves blessed beyond words to have mixed this amazing group into a big family that loves to spend time together enjoying meals and traveling to experience new adventures.

What is your favorite part about working at Johnson Brunetti?

“My favorite part of working at Johnson Brunetti is our team approach to serving our clients.”

Nick Colantuono, CFP®, joined Johnson Brunetti in 2018 and has been in the financial services industry since 2009. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, Nick lives a life of helping others achieve their financial goals and dreams. Using a holistic approach to planning, Nick seeks to understand his clients’ personal and financial goals as they transition from a life of working to a life of doing the things they love in retirement. As a fiduciary to his clients, Nick takes a proactive approach to their investment, insurance, business planning, estate planning, and other financial planning needs. He holds his Series 66 license as well as his Life, Health and Property and Casualty licenses and serves clients in our Needham, MA and Franklin, MA offices.

Nick lives in Westborough, MA with his wife Julia, daughter Laura Rose and son Jordy. They love exploring all New England has to offer as a family. Nick is a die-hard Boston sports fan and an avid golfer and softball player.

Joe joined the Johnson Brunetti team in 2026 as a Financial Advisor. He helps individuals and families prepare for a confident retirement by developing personalized income, investment, and financial planning strategies. Joe brings nearly 20 years of experience in the financial services industry to this role. He holds Series 63 and 65 licenses and is also licensed for Life & Health Insurance.

Outside of the office, Joe enjoys spending time with his wife and three children as well as staying active through strength training, golfing, hiking, and walking his family rescue dog. He also enjoys coaching youth sports, attending live sporting events, and supporting veterans service organizations.

What is your favorite part about working at Johnson Brunetti?

“The people and the culture. There is a strong sense of teamwork, a commitment to doing what’s right for clients, and a shared passion for helping people navigate retirement with confidence.”

As a Financial Advisor, Ian assists clients’ successful transition into retirement by providing financial planning and investment management analysis, strategy, and support. He is dedicated to nurturing strong connections and assisting individuals in achieving their financial dreams. Ian is a Retirement Income Certified Professional® (RICP®) and holds two bachelor’s degrees, a Series 65 license, and a Life & Health producer license.

Outside of work, Ian enjoys spending time with his wife, Chelsea, their son, Bryce, and their labradoodle. He is an avid golfer, cyclist, and accomplished musician.

What is your favorite part about working at Johnson Brunetti?

“I really enjoy working with the great team of people here at Johnson Brunetti. It’s thrilling to be involved on the ground level with such driven, knowledgeable, and supportive colleagues.”

Alex joined Johnson Brunetti in 2017. His attention to detail, good listening skills, and great empathy are strong attributes which help create an all-around positive experience for our clients. Alex is a Retirement Income Certified Professional® (RICP®) and also holds the Series 65 license and a Connecticut Life and Health license.

Alex has a wife and three children and loves to spend any free time he may have by traveling.