
I am a Financial Consultant with Thrivent with more than 20 years’ experience and am passionate about guiding individuals and families as they plan for their financial future.
During my previous career as a social worker in the community-based long-term care setting, I consistently witnessed people’s lives being negatively impacted by preventable financial disasters. It dawned on me that financial professionals are uniquely positioned to help people avoid these types of crises. This realization led me to a career in the financial services industry where I am able to help people navigate financial choices, maximize and protect their assets, and guide them on their journey to a confident retirement. I love working with Thrivent and connect personally with its values of helping people reach financial clarity and live meaningful, generous lives.
I live in New Brighton with Gary and am mom to two young men, Isaac and Ben. In my free time, I enjoy music, dancing, biking, improv and being outdoors (especially during patio season)!
I would love to connect with you on LinkedIn or if you prefer follow my team on Facebook to see what we are up to.

Giving Back - helping where I can
Giving back is something I hold close to my heart and is why I chose to join the board of the Minnesota Planned Giving Council, volunteer at Family Promise in Anoka County, and am a member of the Department of Human Services Project Vision 2030. I also serve my community with involvement in Small Sums, Habitat for Humanity and Hope4Youth. The impact that money and resources can have on the world is important to me. I believe that humanity can find great contentment in sharing and joyfully giving.
Education and Professional Designations
- Bachelor’s degree, Social Work and Economics, Concordia College
- Ebenezer Society – Social Work and Program Director (1990-2001)
- FINRA Series 6 – Investment Company Products/Variable Contract Representative
- FINRA Series General Security Representative
- FINRA Series 66 – Uniform Combined State Law
- FINRA Series 63 – Uniform Securities Agent State Law
- FIC
Meet My Team

Journey Financial Consultants
- Title
Team Practice
- Website
- https://connect.thrivent.com/journey-financial-consultants

James Aman
Financial Strategist
James is best known for being thorough and finding unique solutions to each financial situation. He knows that applying cookie cutter strategies doesn't consider the nuances of a person's finances or goals. James works VERY hard to make sure that each person has a plan that is complete with a high attention to details. James is especially good at helping clients to better understand their own situations and find a path forward. In addition to being thorough in his work with clients, he is also thorough in his travel - having now visited all 50 states and 12 different countries.
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Financial Consultant

Barry Springborn
Plan Fulfillment and Implementation
Barry passionately wants his clients to not be scared of money and finances. He wants to be the resource that helps to make understanding and managing your financial situation an enjoyable experience. Barry believes when you invest the time in creating a financial plan that aligns with your goals, you will be confident and content. Barry especially loves working with philanthropic clients to find the best way to give to the causes you care about! Barry is an avid hunter and is especially committed to conservation practices that benefit wildlife.
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Wealth Advisor

Darin Stevens
Director of Dedicated Planning Operations
Data analysis and strategic thinking are what set Darin apart. He never tires of digging into the details because it allows him to help tailor a strategy. The first step is to uncover your vision for the future and what makes you tick. Then, he can help navigate your journey to success.
Darin also enjoys a good board game and driving a tractor on his family’s crop farm in Western Minnesota.
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Director of Dedicated Planning Operations

Gideon Ngobi
Financial Advisor
Gideon is committed to helping individuals, families and small business owners achieve their financial clarity. He will draw from prior experience in real estate investing and retail to understand where you are today financially and where you want to go. As a business owner, Gideon walks the talk every day and will use the team approach to bring your values, goals, and objectives to the forefront. His favorite quote: “Let’s do something today that your future self will thank you for”
Having been born outside Minnesota, I think 10,000 lakes and glacial landscapes are fascinating
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Associate

Greg Hohenstern
Project Management and Business Tracking
Greg is a big picture thinker. He is strategic in his approach to your financial picture and has a wonderful way of seeing the way through your current situations to help reach a positive end result. He is analytical and a strong leader. He's the kind of person you want on your team! Watch for Greg on your local Minnesota lake this summer!
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Associate

Hillary Bement
Client Meeting and Account Services
Hillary supports the JFC team through co-facilitating client appointments and working to enhance the client experience with effective research and communication. She strives to deliver exceptional client interactions by aiding them from the first meeting through new business applications to financial transactions and follow up. Hillary provides guidance and assistance to ensure ongoing client satisfaction.
In the summer, Hillary enjoys camping and hiking with her family. And, during the long Minnesota winters, she loves to cozy up in front of a good fireplace fire.
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Financial Producer I

Jill Gutzmer
Financial Advisor, Director of Operations
I’m the newest member of the team! I bring 25 years of financial industry and advisor experience with me. I get out of bed everyday feeling grateful for the opportunity to help clients feel less stress and more confidence about their money. My mother, who was a teacher for 35 years, taught me many things - the beauty in selfless curiosity, the calling to help others and a love of learning. I enjoy making complex financial planning and investment concepts simple, meaningful and personalized. Those conversations allow our clients a feeling of empowerment to explore their financial situation and live their best lives.
In addition to serving our clients, I am blessed to lead our amazing team of support associates. They work tirelessly to deliver excellent service to our clients, which is the heartbeat of our business. Our client relationships thrive because of our team approach and genuine care for our clients.
Outside of the office, I enjoy kayaking, fishing, hiking, gardening, volunteering, mentoring, painting and channeling my youthful spirit by playing with my kiddos, 14 and 8. Anyone who holds a virtual meeting with me will know my football allegiance quickly by the cheeseheads I have in my background. Go Pack! I look forward to learning what brings you joy in your life!
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Financial Advisor, Director of Operations

Linda Hensel
Client Meeting and Account Services
With her attention to detail, Linda supports the JFC team through co-facilitating client appointments and working with clients and the team to implement financial strategies. She strives to provide excellent customer experiences by supporting them throughout new business applications and ongoing transactional needs. Her primary goal is to facilitate efficient client interactions while maintaining high levels of client satisfaction.
Outside of the office, Linda enjoys puzzles of various kinds, spending time outside as the Minnesota weather allows, and board games with family and friends
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Associate

Katherine Kretzschmar
Dedicated Planning Management
As an Achiever, Developer and Learner, Katie uses her top three Strengths Finder strengths to make the process of gathering your information seamless. She loves to get tasks done, help you see and achieve your goals. She thinks details are fun! Katie loves her family, nature and learning, and she also enjoys being creative. Katie creates handcrafted jewelry that she sells at local art fairs during the summer.
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Office Professional

Annika Pesall
Advice Data Gather and Operations Management
Learning, community, and service are some of Annika’s top values. She is passionate about helping others and making sure clients have the best possible experience. She loves keeping everything organized and connecting with clients. She also enjoys hiking, camping, rock climbing, and connecting with friends.
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Office Professional

Susan Olson
Scheduling and Event Management
When Sue greets you at the office, or on the phone you will know you are in good hands. She is a master at handling the office schedules and loves to chat with clients and hear all about what is new since their last visit with us.
She has lived in Ham Lake with her husband Tim for over 15 years and enjoys spending time with their children, and grandchildren.
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Office Professional

Theresa Janechek
Marketing and Event Management
Theresa has a driving passion to help others by utilizing her talents and gifts in a positive and impactful way. She enjoys helping the team with our marketing efforts and providing an exceptional client experience.
Theresa has lived in Woodbury with her husband Jeff for over 28 years. She enjoys volunteering, long drives, playing cribbage, traveling to see her favorite musicians, watching football and spending time with family and friends. What is most important to her is the happiness and well-being of her family and friends.
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Marketing Coordinator