Our Story
Our story

Who we are 

The Tri-Star Wealth Advisors story begins with Financial Consultant Kevin Knoernschild, whose father was a Thrivent financial advisor. Kevin grew up participating in many Thrivent philanthropic events with his dad and has been passionate about spreading generosity ever since. Kevin chose a career at Thrivent to help people reach their financial goals and build lasting relationships.  

Years later, Kevin’s son, Derek, decided to partner with him. Since then, they’ve expanded their practice by adding team members who share their values and commitment to providing personalized client service, including Office Professional Lyndsay and Financial Advisors Chad Brogdon and Natalie England.  

What we do 

Tri-Star Wealth Advisors offers comprehensive advice to help people achieve financial clarity and confidence during each life stage. If you’re starting your career or family, we can help you evaluate your short- and long-term investment options, protection needs and college savings opportunities. If you’re in or near retirement, we can help you navigate your retirement income, legacy planning and insurance needs. We also specialize in helping clients through overwhelming life changes, like losing a partner.  

No matter what season of life you’re in, our Knoxville-based team is here to offer you a dependable helping hand.  

What we believe 

We believe money is a tool, not a goal, and our faith inspires us to be transparent, thoughtful and conscientious in helping you make the most of all you’ve been given.  

See more about how we work with you here.

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Kevin Knoernschild
Kevin KnoernschildFinancial ConsultantFIC

Kevin is a financial consultant for Tri-Star Wealth Advisors. He enjoys building long-term relationships with clients while helping guide them towards achieving financial clarity and confidence. When he’s not at work, Kevin loves spending time with his family, golfing and traveling.  

Derek Knoernschild
Derek KnoernschildFinancial ConsultantCFP®, FIC

Derek is a third-generation financial advisor with Thrivent. He enjoys helping families achieve financial clarity by collaborating with them to develop personalized strategies for working toward their unique goals. Outside of the office, Derek loves spending time with his wife, Kaitlin, and their two children, Harper and Finn. He is also a sports enthusiast and enjoys coaching his kids, playing golf and physical fitness. 

Chad Brogdon
Chad BrogdonFinancial Advisor

Chad is a financial advisor for Tri-Star Wealth Advisors. He is passionate about educating clients and helping them develop and implement strategies to achieve their financial goals. In his free time, Chad enjoys running, coaching his kids' soccer team, and spending time with his wife and children. 

Natalie England
Natalie EnglandFinancial Associate

As a financial advisor for Tri-Star Wealth Advisors, Natalie is dedicated to helping people work toward their goals and creating lasting relationships. Outside of work, Natalie loves spending time with her family, cheering for her kids at their sporting events and volunteering to help the children at her church. 

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: 865-494-2667

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.