I was going through a job transition 12 years ago when we had our second son. The added expenses of a new baby, combined with income loss, made for challenging times. This shed light on the fact that people going through job transitions don’t always pay attention to their assets when they’re so focused on finding their next job. This personal experience ignited my passion for helping people in the job transition community navigate their unique financial situations. From education on 401(k) rollovers and maximizing lower tax brackets, to tax-efficient accumulation and distribution strategies, I offer first-hand experience and expertise to help people prepare financially for a job change. I started my career with Thrivent in 2002 and created the Focus Forward Financial Group to help bring hope, clarity and organization to the ever-changing financial needs of the people we serve.

I firmly believe having a solid, well-thought plan better prepares anyone to adjust in case of life-changing events. I joined this team because I'm passionate about helping people build robust strategies and guide them through good times and bad. I serve as a financial professional working with clients, as well as in an operational role for the team. In my operational role, I oversee financial plans and investments, including retirement income planning, asset allocation strategies, tax efficiency strategies and estate wealth transfer strategies that are tailored to each client. I'm also adept at integrating investment solutions, along with complex financial planning strategies for high net-worth households and aligning asset management strategies with client goals. I joined Thrivent in 2019, bringing with me years of experience working in several Fortune 500 companies where I held a variety of financial planning and analysis roles, as well as a corporate investor relations position. In my free time, you'll find me with my wife, Brooke, our two children, Minka and Sawyer, spending time enjoying all the great activities Minnesota has to offer.

I have been through a job transition and know how challenging it can be. It feels like a weight that affects every element of your life. It’s my goal to use this personal experience to help lift that weight for others by helping them navigate financial choices and make the transition process easier. My father was a former Minnesota Insurance Commissioner and President of Lutheran Brotherhood (now Thrivent), so I was introduced to the financial industry at a young age. After graduating from the University of Minnesota, I built a business focused on helping people with insurance and risk management. In addition, I taught continuing education classes for insurance professionals nationally for nearly 30 years. This vast expertise and knowledge of the industry has allowed me to bring his voice and training skills to various media outlets, too. I currently live in Chaska with my wife Susan, son Asher and daughter Margaret. Outside of work, I like volunteering for job transition networking groups, serving as a deacon at church and watching sports (especially the Vikings!)

Having experienced first-hand how life events can lead to financial stress, I am dedicated to helping people find financial clarity whether they are new families, individuals undergoing job transitions, or those planning for retirement. This allows them to focus more on their passions and loved ones. I joined Focus Forward Financial Group because our team is committed to building life-long relationships with clients and their families. We take the time to understand each person's unique values and goals and leverage our industry expertise to guide them towards a more secure financial future.

Beth joined Focus Forward Financial Group in 2024 after working in Thrivent’s Central Ohio area as an Office Professional for over 3 years. She lives in the Columbus, Ohio area with her husband of 23 years David and their 16 year old son Daniel. Beth volunteers in her community helping with event planning, children’s ministry and often times finds herself mentoring young people in budgeting and goal setting.

Beth’s experience in Business Analysis, Technology and Client management drives her in creating and improving processes. She has a heart for service and believes greatly in Thrivent’s promise to help clients to achieve financial clarity, enabling lives full of meaning and gratitude.  She has a soft spot for helping people understand why retirement planning is so important and that you are never too young to start working that plan with a Financial Advisor. Beth also has a personal story to share about why safe guarding your retirement against scams is so critical in today’s society. Having a dependable advisor with a company such as Thrivent is a great first step in putting those safe guards in place.

Theresa has a driving passion to help others by utilizing her talents and gifts in a positive and impactful way. That is why working for the Focus Forward Financial Group to help show people why Thrivent is different is a great fit. Owning her own business in the past makes her uniquely qualified to help the team manage their marketing, development and growth. She enjoys helping the team provide exceptional service to clients while working as efficiently as possible.

Theresa has lived in Woodbury with her husband Jeff for over 26 years. She enjoys volunteering, long drives, playing cribbage, traveling to see her favorite musicians, watching football and spending time with family and friends.