A Message From The president
About john
I’ve been helping individuals and businesses navigate taxes for over 40 years, but what drew me to this work wasn’t just numbers; it was people. From the start, I’ve believed that real tax advising means understanding your life changes, your goals, and helping you plan smarter for the future.
In 2016, I started my own firm so I could focus on what mattered most: meaningful client relationships, not billable hours. What began with 170 clients has grown to more than 1,000 individuals and 250 businesses who trust me to offer honest, practical advice.
Now, as part of Real Wealth Tax Advisors, I’m excited to bring even more value to those relationships by integrating tax, financial, and estate planning under one roof. This collaboration allows us to deliver coordinated, thoughtful guidance, so you can make confident decisions, simplify your financial life, and focus on what truly matters: living your wealth.
When I’m not behind the desk consulting with clients or preparing their taxes, family comes next. I enjoy spending time with my wife of 41 years, my 2 sons, and my 4-year-old grandson. I also manage to fit in about 75 rounds of golf each year, and follow my passion for sports cars (including driving in an SCCA event at Milwaukee Mile on an open track day).
Meet the Real Wealth Tax Advisors Team
Don Mathias – Founder
Don Mathias is the founder of Real Wealth Tax Advisors and brings a client-first approach to every relationship. For more than a decade, Don has partnered with clients to translate complex financial options into clear, actionable strategies. His integrated approach of bringing the tax, financial, and estate planning pieces together to work in better harmony helps clients have the freedom, clarity, and peace of mind to make decisions that support the things in life that matter most to them.
A native of Waukesha with a heart for the Hawaiian Islands due to spending a year on Kauai before launching his career, Don and his wife, Larisa, now reside in New Berlin and are proud parents of three children (2,5,7), a role that has deepened his appreciation for client–family dynamics and planning for the next generation. Outside the office, he and the family spend time working with honeybees and chickens, as well as having fun with things like fort building and go-karting. Giving back is also an important part of life for the Mathias family, who support causes such as The Milwaukee Rescue Mission, Pacific Garden Mission, Compassion International, and other charities focused on compassion and community. Don’s vision is clear: Simplify the complex financial lives of families so they can focus more on what matters most to them.
Jetta Dubay
Jetta is committed to making sure every client feels supported and cared for throughout their journey with Real Wealth Tax Advisors. As Director of Operations, she helps keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. Her goal is simple: to give clients peace of mind by delivering a smooth, organized, and exceptional experience every time they work with us.
A Colorado native, Jetta grew up in the foothills near Pikes Peak, where her love for the outdoors and sense of adventure took root. These days, she enjoys exploring the trails and open plains of Wisconsin with her husband, Tim, and their rescue dog, Mabel.
Before joining Real Wealth Tax Advisors, Jetta worked as a policy acquisition manager in the financial industry and held administrative roles across several organizations. Her attention to detail, dedication, and drive for excellence make us proud she is a part of the team.
Penelope Smith
Penelope earned her degree from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, where she began her finance career at a local credit union assisting clients with real estate loans. After graduation, she transitioned into a role with a FinTech investment company as a post closer, expanding her expertise and deepening her commitment to helping others achieve their financial goals.
Penelope grew up in East Troy, Wisconsin, on Potter Lake. She spent her childhood fishing, swimming, and exploring nature with her family. That same love for the outdoors continues today with her husband, Nick, who introduced her to snowboarding and golf. Together, they enjoy escaping to their cabin in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for peaceful weekends away.
Penelope brings a warm, family-centered approach to everything she does. Her natural ability to connect with others, paired with her genuine passion for building meaningful relationships, makes her an invaluable part of our team. She contributes both experience and enthusiasm, helping create the supportive, client-focused environment we strive to deliver every day.
Christopher Johanowicz
Christopher helps bring the Real Wealth Tax Advisors story to life. As our Marketing Specialist, he focuses on sharing the firm’s mission, values, and expertise in ways that connect with clients and the community. Working mostly behind the scenes, he ensures that every message reflects the clarity, care, and confidence that define the Real Wealth experience.
Christopher grew up in Kenosha, spent time in Madison for school, and later headed to Omaha, where he graduated with degrees in broadcasting and psychology. After a few more years back in Madison, he settled in Milwaukee in 2010 and has called it home ever since.
When it comes to marketing, Christopher is a bit of a Swiss Army Knife. From the publishing, hospitality, and consulting industries to manufacturing, finance, and non-profits, he’s tackled projects big and small.
Outside the office, you’ll find him at live shows, exploring new trails, capturing moments through his camera, watching films, experimenting in the kitchen, or finding the next hidden gem around town (or out in nature).