Matthew Strode, in Madison WI

Guiding Financial Decisions with Clarity and Purpose

I work with individuals, families, business owners, pre-retirees, and retirees who want a thoughtful strategy behind the financial decisions that shape their future. A major focus of my practice is helping clients approaching retirement confidently transition from accumulating assets to creating a sustainable plan for income, protection, and long-term flexibility. Many people have strong financial habits in place but often haven't fully evaluated how investments, taxes, insurance, and retirement distributions work together when life begins to shift. I help identify opportunities, simplify complex decisions, and provide guidance in areas that are often overlooked until they become critical.

My goal is to help clients move forward with greater confidence, knowing their financial decisions are aligned with both present priories and long-term objectives.

The First Meeting

Our first meeting is simply a conversation focused on getting to know you, your goals, and what matters most to you both now and in the future. We'll discuss your current situation, short-term and long-term priorities, and explore ways I may be able to add value along the way. There's no cost or obligation- the goal is simply to see if we're a good fit to work together.

My Journey

My path to Thrivent was shaped by both education and elite competition.

After graduating from UW-Madison, I pursued an opportunity that pushed me far outside the traditional path- professional water skiing. I relocated to Winter Haven, Florida, where I performed at LEGOLAND Florida, and later moved to Australia's Gold Coast to ski at Sea World Australia.

That season of life led to the opportunity to represent Team USA and ultimately win a gold medal- an achievement that required discipline, resilience, and long-term focus.

As rewarding as that chapter was, I began to ask a bigger question:

Where could I apply that same discipline and competitive drive in a way that created lasting impact for others?

That search led me to Thrivent.

What stood out to me was the emphasis on education, integrity, and long-term thinking. I wanted to guide, coach and build strategies that truly help people thrive. The values-driven foundation aligned with how I was raised and how I approach life and relationships.

The same principles that shaped me as an athlete now shape how I serve clients. Just as athletics requires clear strategy and disciplined execution, so does building a strong financial life. My journey wasn't conventional, but it prepared me to guide others with focus, accountability, and long-term vision.

Education and Professional Designations

FINRA Series 7 General Securities Representative
FINRA Series 66 Uniform Combined State Law
Life & Health Insurance Licenses
University of Wisconsin-Madison Bachelor of Business Administration, Real Estate and Urban Land Economics