Travis is a jack of all trades, wielding experience in auctions, real estate, and running his own farm. Need your farm equipment appraised or sold faster than a greased pig at a county fair? Travis is your guy. 

He’s not just a regular fundraising auctioneer, though. Travis served as President of the Texas Auctioneer Association and was the Rookie Champion Auctioneer back in the day. He’s got over a decade of auctioneering experience under his belt. 

But wait, there’s more! For the past 7 years, Travis has been lighting a fire under the next generation of auctioneers as an Adjunct Instructor at the McLennan Community College Auctioneer Academy. And if that wasn’t enough, he’s spent years teaching students in Government, World History, Geometry, and even coached Football and Basketball. Talk about a multi-talented machine!

Oh, and let’s not forget his near decade of service with the Texas Army National Guard. Travis brings the same dedication and grit to everything he does.

Emily Preble is a certified Benefit Auctioneer Specialist (BAS) and licensed Texas auctioneer known for her infectious energy, unwavering enthusiasm, and natural stage presence. As a former Division I softball catcher and captain,
she brings the same leadership, tenacity, and charisma honed on the field to every fundraising endeavor.

Emily is a storyteller at heart. With a background in journalism, design, and brand strategy, she is experienced in asking the right questions, weaving compelling narratives, and building momentum that inspires real generosity. She is quick with a well-timed joke, rooted in authenticity, and relentlessly passionate about the causes that light her up.

Whether she is hosting a paddle raise, energizing a crowd, or working behind the scenes to fine-tune your messaging, Emily prides herself on being a thermostat: not just reading the temperature of the room, but setting the tone with intention, joy, and a uniquely creative spark. She is here to help you
and your cause win, and have a ball doing it.

From the vibrant, multicultural city of Durham, NC, emerges the remarkable force that is Suhailah Waheed. She splits her time between Austin, TX, and  Raleigh, NC, in a relentless pursuit to uplift the voices of the marginalized through the power of sustainable funding.

She is the proud recipient of the prestigious 2020 Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Emerging Leader Award. 

Suhailah’s astounding journey in fundraising began in her youth, sparking a lifelong dedication to creating sustainable support systems for those in need. She began by fundraising for her school and local Masjid, setting the stage for a career marked by empathy, innovation, and an unyielding commitment to her community.

Now, as a principal consultant with Giving Geeks and a clerk with Astounding Auctions, she stands as a master of crafting strategic, impactful fundraising initiatives. She’s made it her mission to improve the quality of life for communities marginalized by systems. She does this with compassion, efficiency, and incredible storytelling – empowering through access to sustainable funding. 

She specializes in developing and enhancing fundraising strategies, supporting nonprofit institutions with trend-smart sector insights, and driving impactful initiatives that resonate deeply with donors and stakeholders alike.

*Don’t tell him we told you, but he is the glue, always stepping up for the good of Team Astounding and our clients.*

This Louisiana hotshot is not only here to charm the crowds (though that winning smile certainly helps)! He is TK’s secret weapon. He remains calm amidst the auction storm, always ready to smooth things over and bring a ray of sunshine (or a plate of his famous Louisiana cooking) into any situation. Whenever TK needs support, he is ready and waiting to step into the scene and save the day.

As a fellow entrepreneur and experienced insurance whiz, Blake understands the hustle and drives Astounding Auctions and its causes forward with a strategic, growth-minded focus. He has been able to expand his own business to new states across the country.

Blake is a true people person, a master networker with a heart of gold. So next time you see Blake, do not be shy! He is more than happy to chat or just share a good laugh.

Introducing Melissa Falls, the fierce ringman, bringing in high bids and fast fans!

Starting from her roots in hospitality and eventually becoming a business owner, Melissa honed her skills in customer engagement and business management.

Her journey took an exciting turn when she transitioned into the role of a Professional Ringman. With an innate ability to read the room and engage bidders, Melissa has become a pivotal figure in the auction world. Her achievements speak volumes: she clinched the title of the 2021 Texas State Reserve Champion Ringman, followed by an impressive win as the 2022 Kentucky Battle of the Bluegrass Ringman Champion. Not stopping there, Melissa also contributed to the 2023 State of Texas Team Championship, showcasing her team spirit and competitive edge.

What sets Melissa apart is her deep understanding of the auction process and her ability to create an electrifying atmosphere. Her skills go beyond catching bids, she brings strategic insights, audience engagement, and performance to every auction. Clients request Melissa’s energy because they know she brings the heat! Melissa hears every story and feels honored to be able to touch the lives of the community and contribute in her own special way as a part of Team Astounding.

Naomi Lewis has a Master’s in Strategic Fundraising & Philanthropy and designations like CAI and BAS, she brings unparalleled expertise to her role as a Benefit Auctioneer Specialist on the auction team.

Naomi’s career is marked by impressive achievements: she’s boosted annual giving by 1500% and managed a $250,000 portfolio as a Corporate and Community Relationships Manager. Her knack for event planning ensures every fundraiser she leads maximizes revenue streams.

Beyond her professional achievements, Naomi is deeply involved in community service, serving on the boards of the National Auctioneers Association and Black BRAND. She also serves as the Community Cornerstone Committee Chair on the NAA Board of Directors.
Her dedication extends to public speaking, where she’s achieved Distinguished Toastmaster status.

As a breast cancer survivor and mother of a premature child, Naomi brings resilience and empathy to her work. Her passion for nonprofit causes and strategic approach make her an invaluable asset, ensuring every auction is a success at Astounding Auctions and beyond.

Jake Addams has two decades of communication and e-commerce expertise and graduated from the Auctioneer Academy in Waco, bringing unmatched dedication to his role as a Benefit Auctioneer on the auction team.

Jake’s career is marked by impressive achievements: he spent years as a radio personality on 96.3FM in Lubbock, TX, managed successful annual liquidation auctions starting in 2018, and honed his skills as a versatile voice talent and event announcer. His knack for digital marketing ensures every fundraiser he leads maximizes outreach and engagement.

Beyond his benefit auction work, Jake is deeply involved in the asset market, specializing in the sale of antiques, militaria, and fine art when he is not raising vital funds for charity.

His dedication extends to community and family advocacy, having first discovered his passion for fundraising while leading his children’s elementary school auction.

As a husband and father of three, including two children with special needs, Jake brings deep resilience and personal empathy to his work. His passion for nonprofit causes and authentic approach make him an invaluable asset, ensuring every auction successfully connects with donors and inspires vital support.