
I grew up as a pastor’s kid in Esko, Minnesota (just south of Duluth) and graduated from high school with the class of 1988. After high school I went on to attend the University of Minnesota, Duluth for civil engineering but transferred to Concordia University in St. Paul, MN graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education, Social Studies with Coaching Certification in May of 1993. Following college graduation I enlisted in the United States Army Reserve as a Psychological Operation Specialist assigned to the 13th PSYOP Battalion out of Ft. Snelling, MN (later moved to Arden Hills, MN). Upon completion of 9 months initial active duty service, I began teaching science and math full-time at St. Peter’s Lutheran School in Edina, MN. While attending Concordia, I met Paula Vrieze of Chatfield, MN, and following marriage in 1996 we settled in Maple Grove, MN. In the fall of 1997 I was added to the Social Studies department at Wayzata Sr. High teaching American History and several different elective courses.
After one year teaching at Wayzata, I was deployed in August of 1998 for a 9 month tour to Tuzla, Bosnia in support of Operation Joint Forge. The deployment provided a unique experience working with a multinational NATO force as well as local Bosnian centers of influence to attempt to resettle different areas of the country to their pre-war status, continuing to focus on the capture of many Balkan War criminals, keeping the peace between the warring ethnic groups (Muslims, Serbs and Croatians) along with many other campaigns targeted for our unit by the US and NATO.
Upon returning from active duty, I sought a career change and began as a District Representative with Aid Association for Lutheran working primarily in the areas of the western Twin Cities suburbs. My military career ended as a Staff Sergeant (E-6) in the U.S. Army Reserve with an Honorable Discharge in July of 2001.
My wife and I reside in Arden Hills, MN with our two daughters Abbie and Emily. I have enjoyed my time leading the Sr. High Youth, serving on the Church Council and being an Elder at church. I also had the privilege to serve as head coach for my daughter Emily’s girls fast pitch softball team and we travel around to watch her play. Playing tennis, boating, fishing, yard work, home improvement projects, reading about the economy and investments, following the MN Wild & Twins rounds out a schedule he thoroughly enjoys.
In order to better serve our clients, I am continually working at increasing my knowledge of the industry passing 30 exams thus far in pursuit of excellence. I hold the professional designations of Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC), Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), Chartered Advisor for Senior Living (CASL), Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow (LUTCF) and Fraternal Insurance Counselor (FIC). To work with the full array of investment products, I also received the FINRA series 7 and 66, 6 and 63 securities licenses.
I would love to connect with you on LinkedIn or if you prefer follow my team on Facebook to see what we are up to.
Meet My Team

Journey Financial Consultants
- Title
Team Practice
- Website
- https://connect.thrivent.com/journey-financial-consultants

Dena DeGroat
New Client Connections
Authenticity and openness are the name of the game for Dena. YOUR financial success is her greatest goal and she loves to find the way there by creating a strong relationship with you. It isn't just about a transaction or desire to check something off a list with Dena, it's about really knowing your goals and helping you to achieve them. She especially loves working with generous people whose goals encompass more than themselves. One of the best compliments Dena can receive is the referrals to your family and friends. She is fun, funny and warm-hearted and really good at limbo contests!
- Title
Financial Advisor

Barry Springborn
Plan Fulfillment and Implementation
Barry passionately wants his clients to not be scared of money and finances. He wants to be the resource that helps to make understanding and managing your financial situation an enjoyable experience. Barry believes when you invest the time in creating a financial plan that aligns with your goals, you will be confident and content. Barry especially loves working with philanthropic clients to find the best way to give to the causes you care about! Barry is an avid hunter and is especially committed to conservation practices that benefit wildlife.
- Title
Wealth Advisor

Darin Stevens
Director of Dedicated Planning Operations
Data analysis and strategic thinking are what set Darin apart. He never tires of digging into the details because it allows him to help tailor a strategy. The first step is to uncover your vision for the future and what makes you tick. Then, he can help navigate your journey to success.
Darin also enjoys a good board game and driving a tractor on his family’s crop farm in Western Minnesota.
- Title
Director of Dedicated Planning Operations

Gideon Ngobi
Financial Advisor
Gideon is committed to helping individuals, families and small business owners achieve their financial clarity. He will draw from prior experience in real estate investing and retail to understand where you are today financially and where you want to go. As a business owner, Gideon walks the talk every day and will use the team approach to bring your values, goals, and objectives to the forefront. His favorite quote: “Let’s do something today that your future self will thank you for”
Having been born outside Minnesota, I think 10,000 lakes and glacial landscapes are fascinating
- Title
Associate

Greg Hohenstern
Project Management and Business Tracking
Greg is a big picture thinker. He is strategic in his approach to your financial picture and has a wonderful way of seeing the way through your current situations to help reach a positive end result. He is analytical and a strong leader. He's the kind of person you want on your team! Watch for Greg on your local Minnesota lake this summer!
- Title
Associate

Hillary Bement
Client Meeting and Account Services
Hillary supports the JFC team through co-facilitating client appointments and working to enhance the client experience with effective research and communication. She strives to deliver exceptional client interactions by aiding them from the first meeting through new business applications to financial transactions and follow up. Hillary provides guidance and assistance to ensure ongoing client satisfaction.
In the summer, Hillary enjoys camping and hiking with her family. And, during the long Minnesota winters, she loves to cozy up in front of a good fireplace fire.
- Title
Financial Producer I

Jill Gutzmer
Financial Advisor, Director of Operations
I’m the newest member of the team! I bring 25 years of financial industry and advisor experience with me. I get out of bed everyday feeling grateful for the opportunity to help clients feel less stress and more confidence about their money. My mother, who was a teacher for 35 years, taught me many things - the beauty in selfless curiosity, the calling to help others and a love of learning. I enjoy making complex financial planning and investment concepts simple, meaningful and personalized. Those conversations allow our clients a feeling of empowerment to explore their financial situation and live their best lives.
In addition to serving our clients, I am blessed to lead our amazing team of support associates. They work tirelessly to deliver excellent service to our clients, which is the heartbeat of our business. Our client relationships thrive because of our team approach and genuine care for our clients.
Outside of the office, I enjoy kayaking, fishing, hiking, gardening, volunteering, mentoring, painting and channeling my youthful spirit by playing with my kiddos, 14 and 8. Anyone who holds a virtual meeting with me will know my football allegiance quickly by the cheeseheads I have in my background. Go Pack! I look forward to learning what brings you joy in your life!
- Title
Financial Advisor, Director of Operations

Linda Hensel
Client Meeting and Account Services
With her attention to detail, Linda supports the JFC team through co-facilitating client appointments and working with clients and the team to implement financial strategies. She strives to provide excellent customer experiences by supporting them throughout new business applications and ongoing transactional needs. Her primary goal is to facilitate efficient client interactions while maintaining high levels of client satisfaction.
Outside of the office, Linda enjoys puzzles of various kinds, spending time outside as the Minnesota weather allows, and board games with family and friends
- Title
Associate

Katherine Kretzschmar
Dedicated Planning Management
As an Achiever, Developer and Learner, Katie uses her top three Strengths Finder strengths to make the process of gathering your information seamless. She loves to get tasks done, help you see and achieve your goals. She thinks details are fun! Katie loves her family, nature and learning, and she also enjoys being creative. Katie creates handcrafted jewelry that she sells at local art fairs during the summer.
- Title
Office Professional

Annika Pesall
Advice Data Gather and Operations Management
Learning, community, and service are some of Annika’s top values. She is passionate about helping others and making sure clients have the best possible experience. She loves keeping everything organized and connecting with clients. She also enjoys hiking, camping, rock climbing, and connecting with friends.
- Title
Office Professional

Susan Olson
Scheduling and Event Management
When Sue greets you at the office, or on the phone you will know you are in good hands. She is a master at handling the office schedules and loves to chat with clients and hear all about what is new since their last visit with us.
She has lived in Ham Lake with her husband Tim for over 15 years and enjoys spending time with their children, and grandchildren.
- Title
Office Professional

Theresa Janechek
Marketing and Event Management
Theresa has a driving passion to help others by utilizing her talents and gifts in a positive and impactful way. She enjoys helping the team with our marketing efforts and providing an exceptional client experience.
Theresa has lived in Woodbury with her husband Jeff for over 28 years. She enjoys volunteering, long drives, playing cribbage, traveling to see her favorite musicians, watching football and spending time with family and friends. What is most important to her is the happiness and well-being of her family and friends.
- Title
Marketing Coordinator