Our team

Team Member
Michael Gerken
MBA, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, LUTCF®, FIC, CLTC®
Wealth Advisor

Michael has been with Thrivent for over 30 years and specializes in Retirement Planning, Investments & Wealth Building, Life Insurance & Protection, Social Security Planning, and so much more. He grew up as a local to the area and just like his father, who was a pastor at the local church, treats his clients as a part of his extended family. He understands the importance of being dedicated, organized, honest and that following up in a timely manner is an essential part of success.


Michael and his wife have 4 children and when he’s not at work, he’s enjoying time with them – whether playing, watching sports, or attending his kids' sporting events.

States Licensed: CO, FL, GA, IN, MA, MO, NC, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, WA, WI

About Michael Gerken

Michael has been with Thrivent for over 30 years and specializes in Retirement Planning, Investments & Wealth Building, Life Insurance & Protection, Social Security Planning, and so much more. He grew up as a local to the area and just like his father, who was a pastor at the local church, treats his clients as a part of his extended family. He understands the importance of being dedicated, organized, honest and that following up in a timely manner is an essential part of success.


Michael and his wife have 4 children and when he’s not at work, he’s enjoying time with them – whether playing, watching sports, or attending his kids' sporting events.

States Licensed: CO, FL, GA, IN, MA, MO, NC, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, WA, WI
Team Member
Paola Yanez
Office Manager

Paola has a genuine enthusiasm for helping others and it shows in how she fosters a familial atmosphere for her clients while addressing all their financial needs. She plays a vital role in the day-to-day operations and is adept at handling all incoming client calls with care while ensuring each individual feels valued and understood.  


She is currently pursuing licensure in life and health insurance, but when she’s not working or studying, you can find this bilingual Office Manager cherishing every opportunity to create lasting memories and nurture meaningful relationships outside of work. 

About Paola Yanez

Paola has a genuine enthusiasm for helping others and it shows in how she fosters a familial atmosphere for her clients while addressing all their financial needs. She plays a vital role in the day-to-day operations and is adept at handling all incoming client calls with care while ensuring each individual feels valued and understood.  


She is currently pursuing licensure in life and health insurance, but when she’s not working or studying, you can find this bilingual Office Manager cherishing every opportunity to create lasting memories and nurture meaningful relationships outside of work. 

Team Member
Tracie Gerken
Office Professional

Tracie began in the financial services industry with Thrivent in 1997 – working at their corporate headquarters in Appleton, Wisconsin. At first, she started working with investments and annuities, primarily focusing on retirement products and plans for clients, but ultimately closed out her corporate career as a Sales Product Trainer in the retirement services, where she was able to travel the country working with Financial Representatives.


When she’s not assisting with office management and marketing, you can find her spending time with her 4 children, volunteering in their schools, coaching volleyball and embracing an altogether active lifestyle. 

About Tracie Gerken

Tracie began in the financial services industry with Thrivent in 1997 – working at their corporate headquarters in Appleton, Wisconsin. At first, she started working with investments and annuities, primarily focusing on retirement products and plans for clients, but ultimately closed out her corporate career as a Sales Product Trainer in the retirement services, where she was able to travel the country working with Financial Representatives.


When she’s not assisting with office management and marketing, you can find her spending time with her 4 children, volunteering in their schools, coaching volleyball and embracing an altogether active lifestyle.