"Where Culture Shapes Leaders, and Leaders Shape the future."

What Sets Ai Merchantry Apart

Ai Merchantry: Independent. Transparent. Always in Your Corner. At Ai Merchantry, we believe real financial guidance starts with integrity—and that means no hidden fees, no commissions, and no sales agendas. As non-fee advisors, we’re redefining how people experience financial services by offering holistic, conflict-free solutions designed entirely around your needs. Unlike many firms driven by affiliations, compensation models, or product quotas, our independent model removes the pressure to “sell.” Instead, our advisors serve as strategic partners—aligned with your goals, not commissions. We provide full-spectrum financial advice powered by cutting-edge tools and a deeply personalized approach, all anchored in the highest fiduciary standards. At Ai Merchantry, you’re not a prospect—we treat you like a partner. Our only mission is to protect your wealth, grow your legacy, and empower your decisions with transparency, education, and purpose.

Leadership

Executive Officers  

Kevin B. Carden

Founder, President and CEO

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Phillip G. Sullivan

Chief Technology Officer

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Tiffany M. Hager Co-Founder And COO of Americas insurance Merchantry®

Tiffany M. Hager

Chief Operating Officer

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Marketing and Communications

Ashley N. Groff

Marketing

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Maria H. Sanchez

Commuications

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Michael L. Hubber

Publications

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Advisors

Stephan L. Freeman

Index Universal Life (IUL)

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Mario H. Grubbs

Small Business Development

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Keith P. Hall

Certified Financial Planner

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Community Advisors  

Kalisha P. Bowden

National Black Communities

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Sofia J. Herrera

National Hispanic Communties

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Maya N. Chen

National Asian Communities

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Specialty Advisors

John K. Collins

Retirement Planning Specialist

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Melissa J. Wilbright

Long Term Care Specialist

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Gregory D. Jones

Annuitites Specialist

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Specialty Advisors

Barry T. Alston

Certified Publice Account

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Elaine K. Willinson

Estate Planning laywer

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Annie W. Henkel

Chief Financial Officer

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Kevin B. Carden

Kevin, a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in business management and innovation, is the Founder at Ai Merchantry® and Agency Director of Americas Insurance Merchantry® (AiM). Since its launch in 2022, AiM has quickly emerged as one of the fastest-growing insurance marketing organizations in the U.S., supporting a nationwide network of independent agents. Under Kevin's leadership, AiM offers extensive resources, including marketing support, product development, and operational services, to empower agents and guide them into becoming trusted Advisors. The organization is committed to delivering competitive life insurance solutions, providing Businesses, individuals, and  families with flexible and affordable protection tailored to their needs.
Before founding AiM, Kevin achieved entrepreneurial success with ReadyWrap®, a patented pre-wrapped gift box system. This innovative product captured national attention, advancing to the final stages for Shark Tank and achieving remarkable sales of over 250,000 units on QVC. Kevin’s ability to take ReadyWrap® from concept to market demonstrated his expertise in product development, marketing, and large-scale distribution. Earlier in his career, Kevin founded EastCoast Packaging, Inc., a packaging manufacturing company specializing in rigid boxes for the pharmaceutical industry. Over 25 years, he grew the company into a trusted supplier with more than 100 employees, overseeing operations, production, and client relations. His leadership solidified EastCoast Packaging’s reputation for delivering high-quality solutions to clients nationwide. Kevin also gained valuable experience in the commercial cleaning industry, owning and operating a contract cleaning business that served prominent clients, including the YWCA and Furniture Market Spaces in North Carolina. With a proven track record of building successful startups, scaling operations, and designing innovative products, Kevin is recognized for his strategic vision, operational efficiency, and commitment to creating lasting value for clients, customers, and partners.

Tiffany M. Hager Co-Founder And COO of Americas insurance Merchantry®

Tiffany M. Hager

Tiffany is a dynamic, client-centered executive and the Chief Operating Officer of Ai Merchantry®, where she leads with vision, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to empowering clients and teams. With a successful track record spanning insurance, financial services, and energy. Tiffany brings strategic insight and hands-on leadership to every role she undertakes. As a life insurance agency owner, Tiffany has built systems that drive success—from recruiting and mentoring agents to developing training programs, policies, and procedures that streamline operations and boost performance. She has personally written countless applications and guided families through critical financial decisions, ensuring every client receives the tailored protection they deserve. Tiffany’s earlier roles sharpened her edge in sales, service, and leadership. At Heartland Payment Systems, she excelled as a Relationship Manager, consistently surpassing sales goals and increasing client retention. At Constellation Energy, she led teams, enhanced operational performance, and delivered strategic solutions for residential and commercial clients. Her foundation in banking and customer service, combined with years of managing a household of four children, speaks to her discipline, organization, and empathy. Licensed in Health and Life Insurance, Tiffany is known for her ability to connect, lead, and deliver—whether she’s guiding a team, supporting a client, or building scalable business systems.Her passion for mentorship, professionalism, and long-term relationship-building is at the heart of everything she does at Americas Insurance Merchantry®.