Our Story
"United by Purpose, Rooted in Care"
At the heart of every great partnership is a shared purpose. For us, that purpose is simple — providing peace of mind.
For years, our three firms worked independently to help individuals, families, and businesses choose the health and benefits solutions that were right for them. Each of us built deep relationships in our communities, guided by trust, expertise, and genuine care for the people we served. It is through these deep relationships that we met each other and began to explore how we could help our communities even more if we worked together.
Over time, we realized we shared more than a mission — we shared a mindset. We all believe that peace of mind comes from having someone in your corner who treats you like family — someone who listens first, understands your needs, and walks beside you every step of the way.
By coming together, we've strengthened that promise. As one team of experienced, trusted health and benefits brokers, we combine decades of local knowledge with a commitment to personalized, reliable guidance. Our vision is to be a trusted resource — a place where every individual and organization has access to trusted health and benefit guidance they need to make the best decisions for their future.
We believe that when people feel supported, informed, and cared for, peace of mind naturally follows.
Mission
We are a team of experienced, trusted health and benefits brokers dedicated to delivering personalized, reliable health and benefit choices for the individuals and businesses we serve. With deep roots and strong relationships, we offer trusted guidance, exceptional service, and peace of mind to our long-time customers and those just beginning their journey with us.
Vision
To be the recognized resource where every individual and organization has access to trusted health and benefits guidance — led by neighbors who care, serve, and lead with heart.
Values
Integrity
We do what's right — even when no one is watching. We act with honesty, honor our commitments, and build trust by consistently aligning our actions with our values.
Communication
We engage in open, honest, and effective communication to build understanding, trust, and collaboration. We share information transparently and in a timely manner.
Have Fun
We bring joy to our work and to each other. Fun fuels connection, creativity, and resilience.
Listen to Others
We listen with curiosity, not just to respond but to understand. We value every voice and create space for open, respectful dialogue.
Teamwork
We succeed together. We collaborate openly, support one another, and recognize that our collective strength is greater than any one individual.
Agencies & Advisors
Our agencies and advisors work closely with dedicated support professionals to deliver comprehensive, relationship-driven insurance and benefits solutions throughout Eastern North Carolina.
CP Financial Group
Founded in 1991, CP Financial Group has been providing group and individual health insurance solutions to clients throughout Eastern North Carolina for more than three decades. The firm was established to deliver reliable, relationship-driven benefits guidance to employers, individuals, and families. Today, CP Financial Group continues to specialize in group benefits, individual health insurance, and Medicare solutions.
Specialties: Group health benefits, Individual health insurance, Medicare coverage, Employer benefit strategies
Ed Porter, CLU, ChFC
Partner, Sound Benefits
Ed Porter brings over four decades of experience in life insurance, retirement planning, annuities, employee benefits, and health insurance. He is known for taking a holistic approach to financial and benefits planning, treating each client relationship with care, trust, and long-term perspective.
Ed began his career in financial services in 1982 with Equitable Advisors and earned the prestigious designations of Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC). He joined Sound Partners in 2015 and became a founding partner of Sound Benefits in 2025.
A graduate of East Carolina University, Ed also spent six years teaching marketing and business courses. His focus remains on helping clients prepare for future security through thoughtful planning and sound benefits strategies.
Marilyn Velez
Account & Administrative Support
Marilyn has provided dedicated account and administrative support to Ed Porter since 2019. She plays a key role in supporting client service operations and is known for her strong work ethic, professionalism, and positive approach.
In addition to administrative support, Marilyn assists eligible participants with enrollment and ongoing service for employer-sponsored retirement plans, including 401(k) and SIMPLE plans. Her responsibilities include beneficiary updates, contribution deferrals, and allocation changes.
The Spence Agency
Established in 2019, The Spence Agency focuses on delivering group and individual health insurance solutions to clients across Eastern North Carolina. Since its founding, the agency has expanded its team, services, and reach, now offering health and life insurance as well as wealth management support. The Spence Agency currently operates offices in Goldsboro and Smithfield, NC.
Specialties: Group health insurance, Individual health insurance, Life insurance
Ed Spence, ChFC, CLU, RICP
Partner, Sound Benefits
With more than 40 years of industry experience, Ed Spence is dedicated to helping clients make informed financial and benefits decisions. His career achievements include induction into the Equitable Hall of Fame, reflecting his commitment to excellence and client service.
Ed earned his degree in Business Administration from North Carolina Wesleyan College and holds the professional designations of Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC), Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), and Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP), all through The American College.
Will Spence
Partner, Sound Benefits
A Wayne County native, Will Spence began his career in health insurance in 2012 after earning a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Mount Olive College. He focuses on supporting clients with practical, relationship-based guidance in navigating today's health insurance landscape.
Will is committed to serving individuals and families throughout Eastern North Carolina and values long-term partnerships built on trust, accessibility, and service.
Mary Anne Powell
Health Insurance Specialist
Mary Anne Powell has over 20 years of experience in the health insurance industry, with a background spanning sales, education, and customer service. She works with individual under-65 clients, Health Insurance Marketplace enrollees, Medicare beneficiaries, and group health insurance clients.
While Mary Anne assists clients at all stages of life, her primary focus and passion is helping Medicare beneficiaries navigate their coverage options. She also represents The Spence Agency at community education seminars, sales presentations, and outreach events.
The Steele Agency
Founded in 2011 by Mike Steele, The Steele Agency provides employee benefit solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of businesses and their employees across Eastern North Carolina. The agency is known for its team-oriented approach, responsiveness, and commitment to client service, offering ongoing support beyond initial enrollment.
Specialties: Employee benefits planning, Group insurance solutions, Employer-focused benefit strategies
Mike Steele
Partner, Sound Benefits
Mike Steele brings more than 35 years of experience in the insurance benefits industry. A former East Carolina University basketball coach, Mike applies the principles of teamwork, leadership, and accountability to his work with clients.
As owner of Steele Insurance, Mike has built a reputation for high-touch service and long-term client relationships. His leadership extends beyond business through strong community involvement and charitable initiatives focused on healthcare and youth development.
Wade Scales
Partner, Sound Benefits
Wade Scales has worked in the insurance and employee benefits industry since 2009 and represents a third generation of professionals dedicated to serving clients through thoughtful benefits solutions. He specializes in helping employers protect their most valuable asset — their people — within an increasingly complex and costly benefits environment.
Wade is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and brings a unique background in customer service and brokerage operations.
Denise Worsley
Benefits Support Specialist
Denise brings more than 20 years of professional experience to her role, along with a strong foundation in employee benefits developed over the past three years. After a long career in the mortgage industry, she transitioned into benefits and quickly established herself as a knowledgeable and adaptable member of the team.
Originally from Whitakers, North Carolina, Denise has lived in Greenville since attending East Carolina University. She supports clients and advisors with care, responsiveness, and a strong commitment to service.