Prior to pioneering Yield Private Wealth, Craig built a reputation with his clients for being detail oriented, responsive, conscientious, caring, and always-positive as an advisor. The industry took notice - he was named a Platinum Council Advisor for 2008 - 2023. The Platinum Council distinction is held by a select group of Financial Advisors within Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network as measured by one or more of the following: completion of educational components, business production from the previous year, and professionalism. Additional consideration may have included best practices and team structures. In addition, Craig has been named as
one of the Forbes Best -in-State Wealth Advisors for the years 2018 - 2026.
2026 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors; Awarded April 2026; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/24- 6/30/25 (Source: Forbes.com). 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors; Awarded April 2025; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/23- 6/30/24 (Source: Forbes.com) 2024 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2024; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/22 - 6/30/23 (Source: Forbes.com). 2023 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2023; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/21 - 6/30/22 (Source: Forbes.com). 2022 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2022; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/20 - 6/30/21 (Source: Forbes.com). 2021 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded February 2021; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/19 - 6/30/20 (Source: Forbes.com) .. 2020 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded January 2020; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/18 - 6/30/19 (Source: Forbes.com) 2019 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded February 2019; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/17 - 6/30/18 (Source: Forbes.com). 2018 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: (Awarded February 2018; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/16 - 6/30/17 (Source: Forbes.com). The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors rating algorithm is based on the previous year's industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria.
These industry acknowledgments are supported by his CFP® verified designation and a BS in Business Administration from the University of South Carolina.
Without question, the most important thing to Craig is his family. When not spending time with them at home or traveling, you will find him hiking or fly-fishing. Having grown up in Newberry before attending college in Columbia and then starting his family in Greenville, giving back to the South Carolina community continues to be important to Craig, as he is an avid supporter of causes like 3GEN Ministries and the YMCA Camp Greenville.
CA Insurance License Number: 4297820. Resident State (SC).
Managing Principal
CFP
Martin Culbertson combines a no-nonsense attitude with a studious approach to break down the complexities of wealth planning into a simple yet sophisticated plan for the clients at Yield Private Wealth. As Managing Partner, Martin draws on two decades worth of expertise to be both a devoted sentry of the markets and a long-term steward of his client’s most closely-held goals.
Shortly after beginning his career at Wells Fargo in 2002, Martin discovered that integrity and trust will take you a long way in planning – and in life. To wit, he provides portfolio analysis as well as the creation and monitoring of wealth and retirement plans for his clients with the goal of becoming a trusted, long-term partner they can count on to help achieve what they want. Martin helped pioneer Yield Private Wealth to deliver the highest levels of personal service with honest advice that the client needs – but may not always want – to hear. He backs this all up with business and investment planning education from Boston University and Coastal Carolina University as well as the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® designation to give his clients a comprehensive approach to wealth planning.
A lifelong resident of Greenville, Martin is devoted to his family, friends, and wildlife conservation. He finds solace unplugging from the daily grind by hunting, fishing, and exploring with his loved ones and friends. With a love for discovery, Martin enjoys traveling with family and friends, dogs in tow. He is as passionate about building lifelong memories as he is about helping his client’s plans come to fruition and being a part of creating their own legacy.
CA Insurance Liscense 4297821, Resident Sate SC.
Managing Partner
CFP
Zachary Gillam knows – your money is useless if you can’t fully enjoy it. As a Managing Partner at Yield Private Wealth, Zach helps people both build their wealth AND enjoy the fruits of their labors. His methodology addresses 3 comprehensive categories in his client’s lives - physical needs, emotional & relational needs, and financial needs. Zach helps his clients engage in the lifestyle they truly desire.
Throughout his first fifteen years in the business at Wachovia and then Wells Fargo, Zach became concerned to see many people lack the physical capacity to enjoy their hard-earned retirement savings. He pioneered Yield Private Wealth with his colleagues to help clients balance their mental & physical health on the path to achieving their most closely-held financial goals.
A lifelong learner, Zach worked hard for both the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® and Accredited Wealth Management AdvisorSM designations to infuse his plans with forward-thinking components like taking actions today to mitigate future tax implications. In addition, he graduated with Honors from North Greenville University.
A Greenville original since he was born, Zach and his wife Sarah have been thrilled to raise their family of 4 here – along with their Goldendoodle, Whitt! Having been closely involved with the foster care & adoption system for a long time, it was a natural choice for them to give a forever home to their son Chris. As making a difference in someone’s life goes beyond his career for Zach, he gives back to Greer by volunteering with various community organizations and at Ridgewood Church. When he gets some time to himself, you’ll find him keeping fit outdoors on a run or enjoying a hunt!
CA Insurance License 4297751, Resident State SC.
Managing Partner
AWMA, CFP
Amy’s previous work experience in the insurance and healthcare industries helps her deliver a superior experience for the clients at Yield. She backs this up with a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from Miami University in Oxford, OH. A big believer in serving others, Amy is also a supporter of Homes for Hope.
A native of Chicago, Amy enjoys the hustle and bustle of the city but loves Greenville for its more laid-back lifestyle. Having always understood the connection between exercise and mental health, she can be found on the yoga mat or in the gym most days of the week. Amy also accomplished her goal of completing her first half marathon in 2023. In her free time, you’ll find her walking downtown with her husband and their 2 labradoodles, visiting her children at the University of South Carolina, or traveling to see family.
Administrative Assistant
Having over 25 years of continuous experience in the financial & investment industry, there is very little Karen has not encountered and overcome. Throughout that time, she built a reputation for fostering client loyalty by doing whatever possible to help them. In addition, she streamlines operations and provides critical sales support to Craig Bedenbaugh (Managing Principal), Martin Culbertson (Managing Partner), and Zachary Gilliam (Managing Partner). The industry has taken notice - Karen earned the Wells Fargo Advisors Platinum Council Client Associate from 2013 until it was discontinued in 2020.
Karen grew up in New York before moving to South Carolina after graduating from college with a degree in Business Administration and has made her home here ever since. Bar none, her favorite out of office activity is spending time with her two sons Owen & Noah. Karen is involved at Brookwood Church and volunteers her time serving within the congregation, recovery programs, and their summer camp for kids. When she does get some time to herself, she likes hiking, reading a good book, or tending to the plants around her house.
The Wells Fargo Advisors Platinum Council Client Associate (previously Premier Client Associate) distinction is held by a select group of Registered Client Associates within Wells Fargo Advisors nominated by their management for their consistent display of professionalism, integrity and core leadership values.
CA License 0H10669 resident state SC
Senior Registered Client Associate
As a Greenville, SC native, Clay has strong ties to his community and is active in local volunteer work, including Mobile Meals of Spartanburg. His involvement in the Merge Multisport triathlon team reflects his love for physical activity, and he spends much of his free time cycling, running, and enjoying the outdoors. Clay’s educational background includes a degree in psychology from Clemson University, further enhancing his ability to connect with and understand his clients.
Through a personalized approach and a commitment to continual growth, Clay provides clients with the support and tools they need to help them thrive financially. Whether guiding clients through complex retirement planning or engaging in his own personal challenges like Ironman races, Clay brings a dedication to excellence in everything he does.
Financial Advisor
CRPC
As a lifelong resident of Greer, SC, Drew has strong ties to his community and is actively involved in local initiatives, including coaching youth sports and supporting Ridgewood Church. He enjoys participating in ultramarathons and trail races, often spending his free time running and exploring the outdoors with his family.
Drew is known for his caring nature and determination, qualities that guide his work at Yield Private Wealth. He was drawn to our practice because of our team’s authentic commitment to serving clients with compassion. With a desire to be remembered as someone who loved and helped others, Drew prioritizes building strong relationships, ensuring that every client feels valued and supported throughout their financial journeys.
Registered Client Associate
In her role, Naomi assists clients and advisors by managing incoming calls, scheduling appointments, preparing paperwork, and conducting follow-up communication. For Naomi, a perfect workday includes a sunny view, a good cup of coffee or tea, and the opportunity to help clients move closer to their goals.
Outside the office, Naomi is passionate about health and wellness. She loves spending time exercising outdoors, such as hiking and running. Naomi also enjoys cooking healthy, delicious meals for herself and her husband. Her favorite thing to listen to is the Revive Our Hearts podcast, a source of encouragement and personal growth. Of all the places she has traveled to, Scotland remains her favorite, for its charm and the warmth of the people. Naomi brings fresh energy, and a desire to serve; qualities that make her an invaluable part of the Yield Private Wealth team.
Client Associate