Our team

As the Founder of Gateway Financial Group, Matthew has a fervent desire to serve his community by sharing valuable insights gained over 15 years of experience at Thrivent. Matthew enjoys the intricacies of wealth management, where he crafts tailored strategies to help clients grow and protect their assets. His expertise in estate strategies ensures that clients can effectively plan for the future, preserving their legacy for the next generation.

When it comes to Social Security strategies, Matthew meticulously analyzes options to maximize benefits, providing clients with a secure foundation for their retirement years. His proficiency in retirement income distribution planning allows him to design comprehensive plans that help ensure a steady and reliable income stream. His keen understanding of tax and investment efficiencies enables him to optimize clients' portfolios, minimizing tax liabilities and enhancing overall investment performance. Matthew is also well-versed in long-term care planning, helping clients prepare for potential healthcare needs with confidence.

Matthew has been in the St. Louis area for over 30 years, and currently lives in Ballwin, MO with his wife Julie and their three children (Lilly, Ella, and Clayton). The Clauses live an energetic and active lifestyle and enjoy spending time on the sports fields, engaging in outdoor activities, family cookouts, and game nights. As a competitive man, Matthew enjoys coaching youth and encouraging young people to excel in their individual and team sports. He also serves on several non-profit boards in the St. Louis area and is incredibly involved at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and School located in Des Peres, MO. 

Before joining Thrivent in 2018, Brock gained invaluable experience through serving Christian congregations in Virginia and St. Louis as a Pastor for ten years. During this time, he developed a deep understanding of the needs and challenges faced by individuals and families, which has greatly influenced his approach to financial planning. As a visionary servant leader, Brock and Matthew co-founded Gateway Financial Group with the belief that everyone should be able to thrive financially while living generously. Brock understands the importance of a strategic financial plan to prepare for the unexpected, and he emphasizes wise stewardship of financial resources to help his clients develop attainable lifetime and generational goals. His approach is holistic, considering not just financial well-being but also the overall quality of life and future aspirations of his clients.

Brock and his wife Kristi were married in 2011 and have two amazing young boys - Logan and William. With a lively and energetic family, Brock enjoys taking them on camping trips to unwind from the fast pace of life, traveling to Texas to visit cousins, and eating homemade, delicious, healthy food. These activities not only provide relaxation but also create lasting memories and strengthen family bonds. Brock attends One Family Church in St. Louis, where he enjoys serving on the worship team with his electric bass guitar. His compassionate heart also motivates him to actively promote non-profit organizations by connecting people to much-needed services. He believes in giving back to the community and making a positive impact on the lives of others, which is reflected in both his professional and personal endeavors.

Kari joined Thrivent over 25 years ago and for the past 20 years, she has dedicated herself to specializing in helping individuals with their Medicare decisions. She enjoys getting to know her clients and their families on a personal level to help generate a financial strategy that is both sustainable and geared toward their individual values and beliefs. By presenting different options in a clear and understandable way, Kari can alleviate the potential stress of retiring by helping her clients navigate the complexity of Medicare and insurance. Kari has a BSBM with an emphasis in Finance from Mizzou and she can guide her clients onto a clear and purposeful path toward the future. Go Tigers!  

Kari and her husband, Jason, were married in 1994 and both come from large families. With six children of their own, Kari has a very family-oriented perspective and looks forward to spending quality time with her family at sit-down dinners, family fun nights or a friendly tennis match. Boy Scouts of America and Salem Lutheran Church in St. Louis have been a big part of Kari’s life outside of work where she enjoys helping in every way she can to support their missions and visions.  

Nick joined Thrivent in 2022 with the objective of helping every individual reach their financial goals by providing them access to reliable and sound advice. As an entrepreneur with his Business and Marketing degree from Missouri Baptist University, Nick recognizes that everyone’s economic and life situation is unique. He believes that his clients deserve personalized service, which is essential when matching clients with the right financial products and services. Whether his clients’ goals are to start a small business, purchase a first home, finance a child’s education or plan for retirement, Nick has a passion for helping his clients make wise financial decisions. 

When he is not working, Nick is still on the go with his family of seven. He married his high school sweetheart, Kristin, in 2011 and together they have 5 young children (Ava, Henry, Ella, Charlie and Lily) who all watch their dad play men’s league softball or sit around his feet while he plays the guitar, violin or piano! Nick attends The Crossing in Chesterfield and enjoys spending his Sunday afternoons playing games outside with his children.  

With a degree in Mathematics from the University of Missouri – St. Louis (UMSL) and extensive experience in the fast-paced casino industry, Nick possesses a sharp eye for detail and an exceptional ability to navigate complex financial strategies. His unique background equips him with the skills to analyze intricate data and make informed decisions swiftly. Nick is deeply passionate about alleviating his clients' stress and helping them align their personal values with their financial goals. He believes that financial planning is not just about numbers but about understanding each client's unique situation and aspirations. Through careful and strategic conversations, Nick builds strong relationships with his clients, ensuring that their financial plans are tailored specifically to their needs.

His approach to financial planning is both meticulous and personalized. Nick takes the time to understand his clients' current financial situation, future goals, and any potential challenges they might face. Whether it's through investment strategies, retirement planning, or debt management, Nick's goal is to provide his clients with peace of mind and a clear path to achieving their financial dreams.

As a dog lover, Nick enjoys the challenges of fostering new pups. He spends his extra time instilling good behavior in the dogs to set them up for success in finding their fur-ever home. He is a strong supporter of Houses for Warriors, a charity that helps get veterans off of the streets and get back on their feet, and a member of Ascension Lutheran Church in Littleton, where he attends with his wife, Rachel.

As a Financial Advisor committed to educating clients on financial literacy and personal budgeting, Christian aims to empower individuals, families, and nonprofit organizations by making financial concepts both accessible and actionable. With his military upbringing and a master’s degree in Divinity from Lipscomb University in Nashville, his unique perspective on financial planning aligns with Thrivent’s ethical and value-based approach. His goal is to provide personalized financial guidance to his clients that enables them to achieve their financial goals while staying true to their beliefs.

Christian enjoys playing pickleball and finds any opportunity to spend time with his lovely wife, Kyra, and their miniature poodle, Archie. Because he understands the benefits of discipline, teamwork, and service, Christian is actively involved with both The Fellowship of Christian Athletes and First Priority. He is also an active member of the Columbia, Illinois Chamber of Commerce, and the Rotary Club, where he contributes to his community through various philanthropic efforts. He and Kyra attend Cornerstone Christian Church in Shiloh, IL, where they serve in the café as members of their welcome team. 

Originally from St. Paul, Minnesota, Brian graduated from the University of Northwestern – St. Paul in 2016 with a degree in business. After graduation, he started a pricing analyst role with his uncle’s ticket selling company. This role honed his attention to detail and ability to analyze data quickly and accurately. Brian's diverse skill set also includes being a certified real estate appraiser which have provided him with a unique perspective on asset valuation and team leadership, further enhancing his ability to guide clients through complex financial decisions. Brian has developed deep expertise in investment strategies, retirement planning, and risk management. His extensive knowledge allows him to craft effective and personalized financial plans that cater to the unique needs of each client.

Driven by a passion for helping individuals and families achieve their financial goals, Brian brings a fresh perspective and a commitment to personalized service. At Thrivent, he is dedicated to understanding the unique financial situations of each client and providing tailored advice to help them make informed decisions. Brian's approach is client-centric, focusing on building strong relationships and being a trusted partner in their financial journey. Brian's extensive experience, combined with his dedication to his clients and his personal interests, make him a well-rounded and effective financial advisor. His ability to analyze complex data, value assets accurately, and lead with empathy and precision ensures that his clients receive the best possible guidance on their financial journeys.

Outside of work, Brian enjoys a competitive round of golf, which helps him stay balanced and energized. He believes that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial and that his hobbies contribute to his overall well-being. Brian is married to Emily and has two young sons, Jude and Silas, who keep him busy and entertained. The family attends Waypoint Church in St. Charles, MO, where they are active members of the community.

Tim's journey in the finance industry began in 2009, and from the outset, he understood the importance of broadening his expertise beyond just investments. His commitment to his clients' financial well-being led him to earn the Certified Financial Planning Designation in 2020. This achievement allows him to bring a comprehensive understanding to each client conversation, ensuring that he can address a wide range of financial needs. Tim emphasizes the importance of a solid foundation in areas such as Estate Planning, Taxes, Retirement, Investments, Legacy Planning, and Risk Management. He believes that mastering these key areas is essential for achieving true financial independence.

Tim's dedication to his profession is matched by his roots in Saint Louis, where he was born and raised. He is a graduate of the University of Missouri – Saint Louis, and he takes full advantage of the cultural and recreational opportunities the city offers. Tim and his wife are active parents to their two children and family outings often include trips to the Saint Louis Zoo or the area parks where the children can explore and learn in a fun environment. When not busy with dance classes or soccer games, the family enjoys the lively antics of their two Golden Retrievers, who love to chase each other around the yard.

In addition to his professional and family commitments, Tim is also involved in his community. He serves on the Young Professional Board at the Saint Louis Zoo, contributing his time and expertise to support one of the city's beloved institutions. This role allows him to give back to the community and stay connected with the vibrant life of Saint Louis.

Danny Kapeller, a proud native of St. Louis, has always had a deep connection to his hometown. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminology from the University of Missouri-Saint Louis, where he developed an analytical mind and a passion for helping others navigate complex situations.

As a financial advisor, Danny joined Thrivent in 2024 and brings his analytical skills, local knowledge and connections, and genuine care for his clients to the table. He is dedicated to helping individuals and families achieve their financial goals, providing personalized advice and strategies tailored to their unique needs. Excited about his career with Thrivent, Danny looks forward to building lasting relationships and engaging with new people. He is enthusiastic about meeting his new colleagues and the many individuals he will encounter throughout his career.

Danny's love for St. Louis is evident in his enthusiasm for the city's vibrant culture and community. He enjoys exploring the amazing restaurants, visiting iconic attractions in St Louis, and cheering alongside fellow sports fans. While he loves to travel, Danny finds it hard to leave St. Louis because of the unique character and charm that the city offers. In addition to his professional life, Danny has a "hobby" job at Busch Stadium, where he works private events just to be part of the exciting sports atmosphere he cherishes. When he's not working, you can find Danny spending time with friends enjoying video games, or spending time near an open body of water, which he finds incredibly relaxing. Danny is also a member of First Baptist church in Arnold, MO.

Rachel continues her career with Thrivent and Gateway Financial Group as a Licensed Office Manager, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the team. With 10 years in the financial industry, Rachel thrives on the rewards and challenges that come with managing the daily operations of an office. Her role is multifaceted, encompassing everything from maintaining safe and ethical business practices to managing operational tasks and conducting financial transactions. Her educational background in finance, coupled with her experience as a compliance officer at multiple firms in the industry, has honed her skills in risk assessment and attention to detail. Rachel's genuine passion for these areas makes her an invaluable asset to the Gateway team. She meticulously reviews financial statements, operating procedures, audits, and both customer and employee feedback to ensure that the company maintains legal and ethical operations.

Rachel is proactive in identifying areas of noncompliance and works closely with Advisors and employees to develop and implement improvement plans. Her ability to navigate complex regulatory environments and her commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and efficiency are key to the smooth functioning of the office. Rachel's enthusiasm and dedication to her work inspire confidence and trust among her colleagues and clients alike. 

Rachel finds it impossible to say “no” to fostering dogs to prepare them for their “fur-ever” home and finds extraordinary joy in giving back to her community with the Humane Society. Rachel attends Ascension Lutheran Church in Littleton with her husband, Nick.  

As an indispensable member of our team, Matthew excels in managing our clients' financial and investment portfolios with exceptional expertise. He meticulously oversees the daily operations of our brokerage department, ensuring that every aspect of service delivery is both efficient and effective. His role is pivotal in upholding the high standards of service that our clients expect and deserve. Matthew's understanding of financial markets enables him to navigate the complexities of financial transactions and securities trading with ease. He ensures that all operations comply with local, state, and federal regulations, thereby safeguarding our clients' investments and maintaining strict adherence to all governing laws. His expertise in regulatory requirements is crucial in protecting both our clients and the firm from potential risks.

Beyond his technical skills, Matt is known for his thoughtful and client-centric approach. He takes the time to understand each client's unique financial situation and goals, crafting tailored strategies that align with their needs and aspirations. His dedication to personalized service ensures that clients feel valued and confident in their financial decisions.

Outside of his professional responsibilities, Matt cherishes spending time with his family. He enjoys taking a day off to explore the great outdoors with his wife, Rachel, and their three children: Nathan, Elijah, and Amira. Matt is an active member of West County Assembly of God in Chesterfield, MO, where he finds a sense of community and fulfillment.

Colby attended St. Louis Christian College in Florissant, MO, where he developed a passion for scripture. With a BS in Preaching & Biblical Studies, he began his career in Ministry with a focus on youth. His enthusiastic dedication to working with young people has developed excellent communication and organizational skills needed to foster positive relationships. Because Colby believes that money can be a tremendous blessing if managed wisely and used for God’s glory, he made a career change and joined our team in 2022.

In 2017, Colby married his college sweetheart, Taylar, and they’ve welcomed two children into the world: Noah (2018) and Gabriel (2022) and a third son expected in March 2025. His young family occupies his time with neighborhood walks in a stroller or wagon, bath time, playing games with them, and actively engaging in the small lives of his children. If he had an extra hour in his day, Colby would love to dive deeper into theological studies, write poetry or find his way into a comic-bookstore. He served as an elder and occasionally preached at Renew Church in Maryland Heights, but now he mostly enjoys sitting quietly in the pews with his children as his wife is a worship pastor at Cornerstone Christian Church on O’Fallon, MO.

Lisa has always enjoyed working with diverse groups of people toward one common goal: Caring for and meeting the needs of others. As a former speech pathologist, Lisa was delighted to work with the elderly population to improve, restore or develop new communication skills to increase the quality of her patients’ lives. After 29 years of enjoying life away from the St. Louis area, Lisa relocated back in 2020 to be closer to her extended family while her adult children (Ellie, Alex, Sarah & Angel) remain in Michigan and Maryland.  

Lisa is an integral part of our team. She manages the front office and welcomes our clients with a warm friendly smile. She keeps the office organized and running efficiently through excellent customer service, correspondence with and scheduling clients, promoting our workshops and events, and working closely with our partnered non-profit organizations. She finds joy in serving in small and large capacities in her communities with an emphasis on fundraising and supporting the under-privileged, especially women suffering with breast cancer. She attends St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Des Peres, MO and treasures the opportunity to work with people who use their individual gifts to serve others and is really energized by every opportunity to help clean out a basement, garage, or closets!  

Kelsie Hogenkamp is a seasoned office professional with a decade of experience in managing corporate events, financial operations, and marketing. Known for her problem-solving skills and ability to thrive in high-stress environments, she excels in operational management roles. Kelsie is passionate about helping others, demonstrated by her involvement with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, where she organized events like webinars, workshops, and fundraisers. She has managed business and financial operations and created marketing content for social media and events.

Joining Gateway Financial Group in 2024, Kelsie helps ensure efficient operations. Her multitasking abilities and dedication make her a key team member. She holds a master’s degree in public health from Washington University, which enhances her professional work with a broad perspective on public health principles.

Outside of her professional life, Kelsie can be found enjoying the outdoors or playing sports. She also spends her time coaching cheerleading and gymnastics. She and her husband Rob are active members at Arise church in St Louis and are expecting their second child in May to add more excitement to their young family!