Our Story

Who we are 

Michael Gerken grew up in the Newton-Conover area and his father was the pastor of a local church. Family has always been important, and being able to guide people in their financial life has been truly rewarding. 

Now as the needs of our clients have grown, so has our team. The addition of Michael's daughter, Natalie Raatz, brings an added level of expertise for people starting their careers, saving for college and beginning to chart out their financial futures.

Our approach

When you work with us, you’ll find our total-needs approach helps us create a plan that is personalized to fit you, your life and your dreams. It’s an opportunity to bring clarity to where you are today while building confidence for where you want to go tomorrow. Our experienced financial professionals specialize in the following areas:  

• Financial planning

• Estate planning

• Retirement

• Life Insurance

What we believe

We believe that money is a tool, not a goal. As the shepherd of your financial journey, we strive to help you achieve a higher level of success that aligns with your personal values and long-term needs, so you can live more generously.

Gerken Wealth Advisors our story image 1
Michael Gerken
Michael GerkenWealth AdvisorMBA, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, LUTCF®, FIC, CLTC®

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.

Natalie Raatz
Natalie RaatzFinancial Advisor

Natalie graduated from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2019 and started her finance career at a major investments firm in the area. She spent her time there in client-facing roles as well as internal auditing positions where she reviewed other client interactions for regulatory compliance and company accuracy. After gaining five years of invaluable experience, she wanted to pursue a more purpose driven position and started her career at Thrivent. She’s learned from her parents, who are also a part of the Thrivent family, the importance of financial preparation. She’s passionate about helping others reach financial freedom and security through education, planning, and management.

She has her Life, Health, Variable Annuity, Long Term Care and Medicare Supplement insurance licenses as well as her Securities licenses and brings a fresh energy and enthusiasm to the team. She is dedicated to her work, team, faith, and clients.

In her free moments, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, tending to her garden, cooking new foods, traveling to new places, and cheering on her favorite sports teams!

Ken Arendt
Ken ArendtAssociate

As an experienced investment analyst, I specialize in evaluating financial data and providing strategic insights to help clients achieve their financial goals. Since joining Thrivent in 2006, I’ve honed my skills in portfolio management, risk assessment, and market analysis. I’m dedicated to your financial success. I stay informed about market developments and adapt strategies accordingly. Whether you’re planning for retirement, saving for education, or building wealth, we are here to guide you.

When I am not analyzing stocks, you’ll find my wife Hannah and I exploring our great country by planes, trains, and automobiles!

Paola Yanez
Paola YanezOffice 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. 

Tracie Gerken
Tracie GerkenOffice 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. 

Ken Arendt
Ken ArendtAssociateFIC

Ready to connect?

We'd love to answer any questions you may have and start learning about your goals. We can meet however you're most comfortable—phone, virtual or in person.

Or call us directly: 828-465-3222

Licensing is available through your State Insurance Department’s website, which can be located through the National Association of Insurance Commissioners website.

Thrivent financial advisors and professionals have general knowledge of the Social Security tenets. For complete details on your situation, contact the Social Security Administration.

Not all team members may provide all products, programs and services in all states.

Not all team members may office at the locations listed.

* as of December 31, 2024

** Thrivent and its financial advisors and professionals do not provide legal, accounting or tax advice. Consult your attorney or tax professional.

Rating is based on Thrivent’s financial strength and claims-paying ability. Does not apply to investment product performance. For information on this rating, visit the rating agency's website.

Designations
For additional information on professional designations and the requirements to earn them, visit https://www.thrivent.com/designations

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization's initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.