Eric has been a dedicated professional in the financial services industry since 2012, spending his entire career with Thrivent. In 2017, he founded the Third Coast Group at Thrivent to enhance the service and support he provides to clients. After earning his CFP® designation in 2023, Eric focuses on helping individuals and couples make informed financial & investment decisions, emphasizing a strategic approach that considers cash flow, asset location, and tax implications. Outside of work, Eric enjoys golfing when the weather permits and plays basketball when it doesn't. He also cherishes quality time with his wife, Jasmin.

Through his experiences working with professionals, individuals in and approaching retirement, and young families, Jason has learned that the word "money" has different meanings for different people. One thing that Jason has found, however, is that there is one commonality for everyone when it comes to money: being intentional when it comes to money can have a life changing impact for them, their future, and family. When working with clients, Jason uses an effective three step process: Goal Understanding, Cooperative Plan Collaboration, and Strategy Implementation. In his spare time, Jason enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters, coaching his daughters' basketball and softball teams, and being an active member of his church. Jason has been working for Thrivent since 2016.

Melissa went to Indiana University Northwest. After 5 years in retail management and 6 years in banking she transitioned into her role here at Thrivent. She was a ballet dancer and a gymnast for 15 years, so she has a solid foundation and understanding of leadership, teamwork and how important it is to work together. She puts her all into her work and building genuine connections and relationships with the clients that she works with. When she’s not working, she enjoys spending time with her family and close friends. She loves traveling and going to basketball games as often as she can! She also enjoys volunteering, making sure she can give back to the community is very important to her. 

Mike attended Niagara University where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Finance in 2021 and Master’s degree in Finance in 2022. As a Division 1 hockey goalie, Mike values the power of a strong, collaborative team. Mike joined the Third Coast Group in 2023 with the goal of expanding the team’s presence in Chicagoland. Mike strives to help families and business owners build wealth through providing fiduciary-based financial advice. Outside of the office, Mike enjoys golfing, NFL football (go Bills!), spending time outdoors, and being with his girlfriend, Alyssa, and their dog, Whiskey.

Ashley graduated from Benedictine University, Lisle IL in 2008 with a bachelor’s in Psychology and Art. Most of her work experience has been in the retail setting with her focus being on customer service.

Ashley Is a highly organized and friendly individual who brings a new perspective to the group. Her purpose with the team is to oversee our systems, marketing and social media to ensure that our clients are getting the best experience possible, as well as to stay connected with us in creative and fun ways. She has been with The Third Coast Group since 2020.

Being a daughter of a Lutheran Pastor, she believes that love and respect is something everyone is entitled to. She hopes to bring that into her work with the Third Coast Group.

In her free time, she loves to Craft (Knit, Crochet, Sew, Scrapbook), learn about languages and cultures, takes Belly Dancing lessons, and has an extensive Doll Collection. She also loves to play with her 2 Fur-children: a Dachshund, Suzu, and a Pastel Orange cat, Yume.

Connor is a recent graduate of Indiana University Bloomington, where he earned his bachelor's degree in Informatics with a business cognate. He joined the Third Coast Group in 2024, eager to apply his diverse knowledge of technology and business in a dynamic, professional setting. As the youngest of three siblings, with two older brothers, Connor has developed a strong sense of resilience and determination, qualities that he brings to his role at TCG. He is enthusiastic about the opportunity to grow and expand his expertise with TCG, where he looks forward to contributing to the team and learning from experienced professionals.

Outside of work, Connor enjoys spending time outdoors, whether it’s golfing, hiking, or engaging in a friendly game of cornhole with family and friends. His passion for building connections and his commitment to continuous learning make him a valuable asset to the TCG team.