Our Story
About Rice Creek Group

We help individuals and families make intentional and informed money decisions. Our goal is to help clients feel empowered and confident about their financial future.

At Rice Creek Group, we believe thoughtful, intentional financial planning is strengthened through collaboration. Our team‑based approach brings together diverse experience, shared insight, and dedicated operational support—allowing us to serve clients with consistency, care, and attention to detail. By working as an integrated planning team, we’re able to support a wide range of needs while maintaining a coordinated and personal experience.

Proudly serving the greater Twin Cities area, we work with individuals and families throughout Minnesota, with office locations in North Oaks and Chanhassen. This local presence allows us to stay connected to the communities we serve, while our expanding team structure provides the capacity and continuity to support clients as their needs evolve. As we grow, our focus remains on intentional relationships, clear communication, and a team‑supported experience designed to move alongside clients over time.

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Michael Kauls
Michael KaulsFinancial AdvisorRICP®, CCPS®

Mike helps individuals and families make intentional, tax‑efficient financial decisions that support what matters most in their lives. He focuses on bringing clarity and confidence to every step of the journey—whether it’s preparing for education costs, building reliable retirement income, or strengthening long‑term financial security.

Rooted in the local community, Mike takes a personalized, values‑based approach. He prioritizes understanding each client’s goals before designing meaningful strategies tailored to their needs.

Mike and his wife, Katy, are raising their two children here in the community they love—giving him a firsthand appreciation for the financial decisions families face today and the legacy they want to build for tomorrow.

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Eric Werlinger
Eric WerlingerFinancial AdvisorChFC®

Eric guides families and near‑retirees through some of life’s most important financial decisions, especially when timelines are tight and clarity matters most. He specializes in retirement income planning and late‑stage college planning, helping clients move forward with confidence and a sense of reassurance.

With a master’s degree from Bethel University, a bachelor’s from Concordia College, the ChFC® designation, and FINRA Series 7 & 66 licenses, Eric blends advanced training with practical, real‑world insight. His approach focuses on simplifying complex choices and creating strategies that support long‑term financial wellbeing.

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Edward Sachs
Edward SachsAssociateRICP®

Ed’s goal is to help you achieve your financial goals. Everyone’s financial situation is unique, and his number one goal is to help you create your personal financial blueprint designed to align with your own goals and timeline. Whether your needs revolve around investment strategies, college financing, retirement planning, charitable giving, or leaving a legacy to the next generation, his team can help you put the pieces together to achieve your goals. His wants you to have a sense of assurance knowing you have a comprehensive plan that helps meet your needs and provides you with protection against unknown challenges life may present down the road.

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Kristina  King
Kristina KingLicensed Practice Support Specialist

Kristina serves as our Licensed Practice Support Associate and plays a key role in supporting both the Rice Creek Group and our members. She assists with scheduling, gathering important client information, processing account updates and withdrawals, coordinating money movement, managing paperwork, and responding to any questions or requests that arise. She is dedicated to helping others and strives to ensure our members feel supported and well‑served.

A graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh, Kristina spent five years at Thrivent’s Home Office before joining our team remotely in 2023. She grew up in Kaukauna, Wisconsin, where she now lives with her husband, Alex, and their two young children, Oliver and Veda.

Outside of work, Kristina enjoys sewing and crafting, hosting game nights, volunteering in her community, cheering on the Green Bay Packers, camping, bike rides, and relaxing in the sun with a good book.

Stephanie  Moonen
Stephanie MoonenOffice Professional

Stephanie works part-time for the RCG team, preparing key account information prior to meetings to ensure every detail is accurate and ready for discussion. Stephanie enjoys her cats and gaming in her free time.

Chris Vander Heyden
Chris Vander HeydenSecurities Supt Associate

Chris joined the Rice Creek Group in February 2026 and supports our team on a part time basis. She brings extensive experience in the financial services industry, including a background in banking and eight years at the Thrivent corporate office, where she led the Dedicated Planning Operations team.

In her role, Chris provides administrative support for investment advisory clients with a focus on efficiency, accuracy, and exceptional service. She values the collaborative culture of the Rice Creek Group and is committed to supporting clients and advisors with professionalism and care.

Outside of work, Chris enjoys traveling, gardening, cooking, winemaking, and spending time with her children and seven grandchildren.

Meg Cambronne
Meg CambronneOffice Professional

Meg is the newest member of the Rice Creek Group, joining the team in September 2026. As an Office Professional, she helps keep the day-to-day operations of the office running smoothly by scheduling appointments, assisting with incoming calls, welcoming clients, and providing administrative support to the team. She especially looks forward to getting to know clients and helping make their experience with the Rice Creek Group a positive one. Meg is proud to be working for a purpose-based company that is passionate about giving back.

 

Meg and her husband live near the North Oaks office and enjoy being part of the local community. They have two daughters who keep them busy with sports, school activities, and everything in between. Outside of work, Meg enjoys spending time on the St. Croix River, is passionate about books, and will cheer on the Vikings even though it will break her heart time and time again.

North Oaks Location
Ste 250 100 Village Center Dr
North Oaks, MN 55127
Phone651-219-5838Hours
M – F: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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: 651-219-5838

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