As the Founder of Gateway Financial Group, Matthew Claus has more than 15 years of experience with Thrivent, helping individuals and families develop financial strategies aligned with their goals, values, and long-term objectives. He works with clients to create personalized approaches to wealth management, retirement planning, and legacy considerations.

Matthew's practice focuses on comprehensive financial planning, including retirement income strategies, Social Security claiming considerations, estate planning strategies, and investment planning. He helps clients evaluate options for generating retirement income, coordinating financial resources, and addressing wealth transfer objectives. He also provides guidance on tax-efficient investment strategies and long-term care planning as part of a broader financial plan.

Matthew has called St. Louis home 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 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.

For more than 25 years, Kari Lovera has been helping individuals, families, and business owners navigate life's financial decisions with confidence and clarity. As an Associate Financial Advisor with Gateway Financial Group, Kari is passionate about building lasting relationships and helping clients create strategies that reflect both their goals and their values.

A graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia with a degree in Finance, Kari began her career in financial services at First Community Credit Union before joining Thrivent in 1999. Throughout her career, she has remained dedicated to educating and empowering clients, helping them make informed decisions about retirement, wealth management, insurance protection, estate planning, and long-term care preparation.

Kari especially enjoys helping families prepare for the future and create meaningful legacies for the people and causes they care about most. She believes financial planning is about more than numbers. It is about providing purpose, supporting life's dreams, and helping people use their resources in ways that align with what matters most to them. Her work is rooted in a values-based approach that emphasizes stewardship, generosity, and purposeful planning.

Known for her caring nature and approachable style, Kari takes time to truly understand each client's unique circumstances and goals. Whether she's helping a young family build a financial foundation, guiding clients through retirement decisions, or assisting with estate and extended care planning, her focus remains the same: serving others with integrity, compassion, and expertise.

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.

As a Financial Advisor committed to educating clients, Christian aims to empower individuals, families, and nonprofit organizations by making financial concepts both accessible and actionable. With his military upbringing and professional background in church leadership, 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, his daughter, Haven, and their miniature poodle, Archie. Christian is actively involved in several economic development organizations, two nonprofit organizations that serve families of children with cancer, veteran resource groups, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. 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 Life Community Church Columbia, IL.

With over two decades of experience in the mortgage industry and a deep understanding of the importance of comprehensive financial guidance, Jonathan transitioned into his role as a Financial Advisor with Thrivent to make a greater impact on the lives of individuals, families, and his community. His mission is to provide personalized financial strategies that align with each client’s unique goals and values, helping them achieve financial confidence and long-term success.

A lifelong soccer fan and former player, Jonathan credits the game with teaching him valuable lessons in teamwork, discipline, and resilience. Inspired by his love of soccer and desire to give back, he founded the Goal for Good Charity Soccer Tournament, bringing the community together for friendly competition while supporting local nonprofit organizations serving needs such as foster families, individuals experiencing homelessness, youth sports opportunities, and people with special needs.

Jonathan is also a member of the Rotary Club, serves meals at the Harvest Table, and sits on the board of the Franklin County Foster Closet. He and Katie have two daughters, Madeline and Leah, and share their home with a Goldendoodle named Zoey and a cat named Roo. They attend Our Lady of Lourdes in Washington and enjoy being active in their local community.

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.

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.

With diverse professional experience - from financial services to escape room design (yes, you read that right!), Tyler brings a unique blend of experience, energy, and empathy to his role as a Financial Advisor.

Tyler’s college years were shaped by his leadership at the Newman Center, where he helped the community grow from 5 to over 75 people. He co-founded, organized and led a bi-weekly Life Night Bible studies, and fostered a strong sense of fellowship within the group. Now at Thrivent, Tyler helps individuals and small businesses navigate financial planning and portfolio management with a personalized, values-based approach.

Outside the office, Tyler lives an active life. He’s a puzzle enthusiast, a self-proclaimed jalapeño popper critic, and a proud newlywed enjoying life with his wife Ashley and their first puppy, Mimi. He enjoys being outdoors — fishing, hunting, and camping, and playing competitive volleyball. He’s also surprisingly talented at arranging flowers! Tyler is deeply committed to his faith and community. He attends All Saints Catholic Church in St Peters and hosts an annual Cornhole Tournament to support Backstoppers first responders - a cause close to his heart and family.

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.  

Matthew is an indispensable team member that plays an important role in supporting our clients' financial and investment needs. He oversees the day-to-day operations of our brokerage department and helps ensure every aspect of service delivery is efficient and effective. His responsibilities include coordinating brokerage activities, supporting client service efforts, and helping ensure operational processes are carried out efficiently.

Matthew's understanding of financial markets enables him to navigate the complexities of financial transactions and securities trading.  He works closely with firm policies and regulatory requirements to help support compliance with applicable local, state, and federal regulations. His knowledge of operational and regulatory processes contributes to the firm's risk management and client service efforts.

In addition to his operational responsibilities, Matthew is committed to understanding each client's individual circumstances, financial priorities, and objectives. He works with clients to develop personalized recommendations and strategies that align with their goals and overall financial plan. His dedication to personalized service ensures that clients feel valued.

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.

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 proud parents of Robert Jr. "Junior" and his little "sis" Stevie.

Lisa Perry serves as our Marketing Specialist, bringing a wealth of experience, organizational excellence, and a steadfast commitment to caring for others. With a professional background in speech pathology, Lisa has always been passionate about fostering clear communication and meaningful connections—skills that continue to shape her work in the financial services sector. In her role, Lisa manages the front office and ensures a welcoming environment for our clients. She excels in customer service, scheduling, coordinating workshops and events, and partnering with local non-profit organizations. Her heart for service extends beyond the office - she actively supports fundraising efforts and initiatives that assist underprivileged communities, especially women battling breast cancer.

Before joining Thrivent, Lisa spent nearly three decades away from the St. Louis area, including 23 years in Philadelphia, where she raised her family and cultivated a deep sense of community. In 2020, she returned to St. Louis to be closer to her extended family while her adult children - Ellie, Alex, Sarah, and Angel - and two grandchildren continue to live out of state. Lisa is a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Des Peres, MO, where her faith is the cornerstone of her life. She treasures opportunities to work alongside others who use their gifts to serve and finds joy in organizing and restoring order to spaces – especially closets, garages, or basements.