We make the complex simple.

It’s Not Just About Money—It’s About What Matters Most.

 

At Nautical Star Financial, we believe financial planning isn’t just about numbers. It’s about people — your family, your purpose, and your legacy. That’s why we listen before we plan, and we lead with your values, not just your assets.

Founded by fiduciary advisor Lance Peters, with over 20 years of experience, our firm was built to serve clients who want thoughtful, tax-savvy guidance with integrity at the core.

Let’s start a conversation so we can learn what matters most to you.

Note that while we are based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, we serve clients across the United States and welcome relationships nationwide.

WHY WE EXIST

 

Too many advisors move fast, talk more than they listen, and give clients a plan that doesn’t reflect their real priorities. We started Nautical Star Financial to make a difference. We’re here to help you reduce unnecessary taxes, find clarity in complexity, and build a financial plan rooted in what truly matters: freedom, faith, or family legacy.

 

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT

 

Fiduciary First

We are fee-only and act in your best interest — always.

Tax-Centric Planning

Tax-Centric Planning: Our strategies focus on helping you pay less in taxes and grow with purpose.

Deep Listening

You’ll never be rushed. We take time to understand your story and your goals.

Accessible & Clear

No jargon. No confusion. Just transparent, understandable guidance.

Values-Led Service

Ethics, patriotism, family, and servant-leadership are at the heart of how we operate.

 

Meet the Team

  • Lance Peters, AIF

    FOUNDER, CEO

    Lance is the Principal of Nautical Star Financial Group.

    With more than 30 years of experience advising individuals and small businesses, Lance excels at working with successful business owners to create customized financial solutions to help them reach their goals faster and more efficiently.

    Lance specializes in providing holistic advice that frees up cash flow for businesses and individuals and allows them to achieve their goals quicker and more efficiently.

    Among other things, Lance incorporates proactive tax reduction strategies, investment management, insurance strategies, estate planning, retirement planning, employee benefit plans, and other business owner pain points.

  • Ralph Smith

    FINANCIAL ADVISOR

    Ralph Smith is a trusted financial advisor. His passion is to help clients make wise decisions and achieve their lifelong financial goals. I help them prepare for retirement by advising and showing them how to convert their current investments to produce retirement income.

    I have extensive experience in Retirement Planning, Wealth Management, and Fixed Income Investing using tactical management strategies for capital preservation and market risk management. I'm incredibly passionate about helping clients plan and build a tax-efficient retirement income portfolio.

    Further, I help clients with estate planning, life insurance, social security advice, long-term care, and family and charitable legacy planning. College funding for children and grandchildren and helping avoid college debt is another way I serve families with practical needs.

  • Susan D. Marshall, CLU®, ChFC®, RICP®

    FINANCIAL ADVISOR

    Susan D. Marshall, CLU®, ChFC®, RICP®, is an esteemed Investment Advisor Representative and Life/Health Agent dedicated to redefining how advisors collaborate with business owners and individuals.

    With a passion for enhancing collaboration among professionals, Susan provides a more holistic and seamless experience. By addressing clients' financial and business needs comprehensively, she clarifies her approach and reinforces the value she brings to clients.

    Susan helps business owners and families improve their retirement plans with strategies that help minimize taxes and maximize security. She also specializes in helping women who find themselves suddenly single strive to achieve financial independence, enjoy renewed confidence, and have the ability to live the lifestyle to which they are accustomed.

    With a background enriched by professional licenses and certifications, Susan brings expertise and a fiduciary commitment to every client's financial journey. She is proud to be affiliated with Nautical Star Financial Group, LLC, which adds a level of credibility and excellence to her services.

    Susan's dedication extends beyond conventional financial planning. As a published author and sought-after speaker, she shares her insights and expertise in financial planning and retirement strategies with audiences nationwide. Her warm and professional demeanor fosters lasting relationships built on trust, integrity, and a shared vision of economic prosperity.

  • Tim Simunds

    CLIENT SERVICES

    As a Client Service Associate at Nautical Star Financial, Tim is committed to helping clients and advisors alike find clarity and make impactful financial decisions. With over a decade of experience in the financial services industry, Tim has an analytical mind that excels at quickly assessing situations and providing sound, actionable advice. Known for a high level of communication skills and a dedication to making sure clients always feel understood, Tim strives to treat every client as they’d want to be treated—honestly, respectfully, and with a focus on doing the right thing.

    A graduate of Seattle Pacific University, Tim brings a diverse professional background, having worked in non-profit and educational settings before moving into financial services in 2012. Having assisted clients from varied backgrounds with financial planning, portfolio analysis, and investment model applications, Tim enjoys the continual learning that comes with helping people achieve their unique goals. Currently pursuing their Series 65 license, they remain dedicated to keeping up-to-date on financial regulations and industry best practices to better serve clients.

    Outside of work, Tim is a family person who values quality time with their spouse and children. Together, they enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, camping, birdwatching, and gathering around a campfire. Whether supporting clients in their financial journeys or spending time with family, Tim brings a grounded, thoughtful approach to every endeavor.