RPS Financial Group |
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Contact Us5251 W 116th Pl Ste 300 Office: 913-362-5000 Take the first stepAre you ready for financial independence? Are you ready to be your own boss? Are you ready to make a positive impact on people's lives? Take The First Step
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AssociatesOur financial representatives are the face of our organization. They not only represent the Northwestern Mutual Financial Network, but they also represent the best interests of their clients. We are proud of their accomplishments, share in their enthusiasm and drive, and help motivate them to achieve the highest level of excellence. Katie Messer, CLU®, ChFC®Financial Advisor
Katie grew up in the Kansas City area and was an outstanding distance runner. She attended college at the University of Southern Florida on a track scholarship and earned her degree in mass communications and public relations in 2000. She started with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network through an internship during her senior year of college and has been a full-time Financial Representative since 2000.
Katie earned the New Rep of the Year Award as the leading 1st year producer. Her sales rank her among the Top 10 female representatives in the country. Katie has obtained the Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) and the Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) designations.
In 2008 Katie became the Client Relations Coordinator for The RPS Financial Group.
She is married to Brian, and they have two daughters named Reese and Hayden. Katie has completed many marathons and continues to compete in many local races.
Ryan George, CFP®, CLU®Field Director
Ryan graduated from Northwest Missouri State University in 2000. While earning a B.S. in economics and management, he played for the 1998 and 1999 Division II National Champions football team. He started with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network through an internship in the summer of 2000. He then began as a full-time Financial Representative later that same year.
Ryan has received many industry awards, including being the recipient of the National Quality Award (NAIFA) multiple times. He was ranked #3 in 2005-2006 for College Unit Director, and finished #8 for the Mike Gish Award for 2001-2002. This is a company award that tracks full-time representatives in their first year after their internship. Ryan has obtained the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) certification and Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) designation.
Ryan has served four years on the Special Neighbors, Inc. Board, one year as President and as Treasurer. He also has a little brother from the Big Brothers & Big Sisters of KC. Ryan currently serves as Vice-President for Heart of America Chapter of NAIFA. Ryan and his spouse Suzie currently reside north of the river and in his free time he enjoys playing golf.
Thane Bernbeck, CLU®Financial Advisor
Thane attended Kansas State University where he played football and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in business administration and financial services. He started with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network in 2001 through an internship program. He has been a full time Financial Representative since 2002.
Thane focuses his business on financial planning to include, asset and income protection; education funding; retirement solutions; and investment/advisory services.
He was awarded Intern of the Year in 2001 and new Financial Representative of the Year in 2005.
Thane is married to Tara and they have twin boys Creighton and Skyler. In his free time he enjoys camping and attending local sporting events.
James CoopersmithFinancial Representative
Jim was born in Mount Vernon, NY. He graduated in 1962 from the United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD. He served on active duty with Naval Aircraft Squadrons on both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. After leaving active duty in 1968 and affiliating with the Naval Air Reserves, enjoyed promotions and commands, retiring as a Captain in 1985.
Jim spent 28 years flying for TWA and retired in March of 1995. During this period of service, Jim flew as a pilot, instructed at the TWA training centers and represented the Airline Pilots Association in the areas of insurance and retirement matters.
Coinciding with the above activities, Jim formed an insurance business which he has headed up for 35 years working with successful business owners as well as professionals in the maximization of their net worth. He is licensed in 17 states for the placement of insurance and equity products. His industry recognitions include the National Quality Award, Health Insurance Quality Award, National Sales Achievement Award, Life Member of the Million Dollar Round Table and consistent member of the Court of the Table. Professional and personal affiliations include Business Executives for National Security, TEC Advisory Group and the Association for Retarded Citizens.
Fundraising activities and charitable donations include Special Olympics, United States Naval Academy Foundation, St. Agnes Church, Bishop Miege School, The Jewish Community Center of Greater Kansas City, Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired, ALS, International Rett Syndrome Foundation and Easter Seals.
Jim and his wife, Toni, have been married 45 years this year. They have five grown children and one grandson named Charlie.
James King, CLU®, ChFC®, CFP®Financial Advisor
Jim graduated from Cornell University in 1987 with a degree in business management and applied economics. He began his career with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network in 1996 after being introduced to the company by an outside agent.
Jim’s areas of specialty include business and retirement planning, life and disability insurance, as well as long term care.
He is the recipient of the National Quality Award (NQA), the National Sales Achievement Award (NSAA), a Qualifying Member of the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT), and the Winner’s Circle Award. Jim is a Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), a Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC), and a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Jim is currently serving as membership chair for KCAIFA. In his free time he enjoys playing rugby and hunting. He played rugby for the Kansas City Blues for almost 20 years and represented Team America at the 2001 World Rugby Classic in Bermuda.
Thomas Lipscomb, CLU®Financial Representative
Tom Lipscomb has been a financial representative since 1985. Tom has received the Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) designation. The CLU designation is the professional credential for persons involved in the protection, accumulation, preservation and distribution of the economic values of human life. For Financial Representatives such as Tom Lipscomb, as well as field managers, home office personnel and others involved in providing life insurance products to the public, the CLU designation is the common bond for continuing growth and commitment to professionalism. Tom Lipscomb is active is his community, recently supporting the KU Marching Band Initiative and when the KU Endowment asked Tom Lipscomb why he support the organization, Tom Lipscomb replyed: My first sense of community as a KU freshman was in the marching band. I want others to experience the thrill of being a part pf something extraordinary." Matt Melton, CPADirector of Investment Services
Matt is a graduate of University of Kansas where he earned his B.S. in accounting and business administration. He began his career with Northwestern Mutual in 1998 as the director of Investment Services. Prior to joining Northwestern Mutual, Matt was a CPA in a local consulting and auditing firm, practicing in the area of tax, estate planning, and business valuations. Matt has been consistent Million Dollar round Table (MDRT) Qualifier and recognized member of the Northwestern Mutual MVP. Matt also was a recipient of the John J. Foster award. In 2010, he qualified for the Northwestern Mutual Forum. Today, he has a comprehensive wealth management practice, focusing on wealth accumulation and retirement planning for families. For businesses, Matt and his team of specialists provide solutions in the area executive and employee benefits. Matt is involved in various charities and organizations, including University of Kansas Alumni Association, Kansas City Estate Planning Symposium, the Golf Club Investment Club, and he is also a member of Hallbrook Country Club of Leawood, Kansas. Tracy VanDyke, CLU®, ChFC®, CFP®Financial Advisor
Tracy graduated from Peru State University with a degree in accounting. She began her career with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network in 1994 after being introduced to the industry by her father, who was a Representative with Northwestern Mutual. Tracy had a strong desire to have her own business and make a difference in people’s lives.
Tracy has earned the Pacesetter 1st 40 Award and went on to achieve her Bronze, Silver and Gold awards. She has been a consistent Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) Qualifier. Tracy has obtained the Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC), the Chartered Advisor for Senior Living (CASL) designations and Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) certification.
Today she has a very strong, diversified practice of insurance and investment products, and is one of the Investment Specialists in The RPS Financial Group.
Tracy and her husband Doug have two boys, Quinn and Drew. Doug is a part of Tracy’s practice as an Associate Financial Representative.
Paul MontelloManaging Director
Paul graduated from Davidson College of North Carolina in 1999, where he was an avid player on the University’s tennis team. He then began his career with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network that same year.
In 2003, Paul’s production earned him the New Rep of the Year Award in our Network Office. He has been the recipient of the Bronze, Silver and Gold awards as a new representative. In addition to a successful practice, Paul contributes his time towards mentoring and coaching new representatives that join our firm. He is a member of The RPS Financial Group Leadership Development Group (LEAD).
Paul and his wife Lindsey recently welcomed a new addition to their family, a son named Luca. He and his wife are members of the Central Church of the Nazarene. Paul enjoys playing tennis and spending time with his family.
Thomas AndersonFinancial Representative Bradley AndersonFinancial Representative Dustin AndrewsFinancial Representative Jeb Beckley, CLU®, ChFC®Financial Advisor
Jeb is a graduate from Ohio State University where he earned his B.S.B.A. He began his career with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network in 1994 after being recruited by Financial Representative, Dan Ertz.
Jeb is a Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) Member since 1997 and has also been the recipient of the National Sales Achievement Award. He has obtained the Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) and the Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) designations.
He and his wife Robyn have two children Leighton and Alec. In Jeb’s free time he enjoys running, mountain biking and spending time with his family.
John Black, CFP®Wealth Management Advisor Bryan Buckley, CFP®Financial Advisor
Bryan earned a two year degree with Dodge City Community College while playing baseball on a scholarship. He then went on to earn a business administration degree from Kansas University. He began his career with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network in 2001 after being introduced to the company by a retired General Agent with Mutual of New York.
Bryan focuses his business on comprehensive financial planning to include, asset and income protection; education funding; retirement solutions; and investment/advisory services.
Bryan has obtained the Certified Financial Planner ™ (CFP®) certification.
He and his wife Kathryn are members of Westside Family Church where they teach 2nd grade Sunday school. Bryan enjoys golfing, traveling and spending time with family and friends.
Cody CarpenterFinancial Representative Thomas Carrigan, CLU®, ChFC®, CFP®Financial Advisor
Tom is a Wealth Management Advisor with the Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company. Tom is a graduate of Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. He has been with Northwestern Mutual since March of 1990. Tom is a CLU and ChFC and earned his CFP certification in March of 2004. Prior to his association with Northwestern Mutual he was involved in various entrepreneurial endeavors and businesses. He specializes in helping professionals and business owners to define and act upon their long term financial goals, specifically in the areas of retirement planning, college education funding for children and grandchildren, and wealth accumulation of capital to fund other specified goals. He helps clients create a Financial Plan providing a compass to base decisions on saving and accumulation and using risk based products such as Disability Income Insurance and Life Insurance to help insure the completion of financial goals in the event of injury, sickness or death. Tom also works with various local attorneys, CPA's and other advisors in order to provide a very comprehensive and holistic planning approach.
"My process is very hands on. It starts with the initial fact finding interview, then moves onto the information gathering session, and concludes with the presentation of the financial planning options. I have access to various insurance and investment products that can be used in implementation of the plan, if you choose. Also as a part of my process I provide quarterly investment reporting and monitoring of your investments should you choose to engage my guidance in that area. I then meet face to face with clients for an annual review and analysis of your needs and progress in the achievement of your desired goals. I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you and discuss your planning needs.”
Butch CarsonDisability Income Specialist
Butch graduated from University of Missouri with a BS in Marketing. In 1993, he joined Northwestern Mutual. He is the RPS Financial Group Disability Specialist.
In his practice, Butch specializes in working with with physicians and dentists. He has achieved numerous industry awards including Million Dolllar RoundTable and the National Quality Award.
He is a board member of KCCAN, plays ice hockey, coaches in-line hockey, and is an
automobile enthusiast. Butch has two children, Julia and Nicholas.
John H ChalfantFinancial Representative Micah CharynFinancial Representative Derek ClemensFinancial Representative Brian CunninghamFinancial Representative Shayne DentonFinancial Representative George Dietrich, CLU®Financial Representative John DistefanoFinancial Representative Dan ErtzFinancial Representative Calvin Finn, CLU®, ChFC®, CASL®Financial Advisor Gene FisherFinancial Representative Edward Frantz, CLU®Financial Representative Terry Gerber, CLU®, ChFC®Financial Representative Edward GipsonFinancial Representative John GoodwinFinancial Advisor
John is a graduate from Princeton University with an B.A. in biochemistry and economics. John began with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network in 2001 due to the encouragement of long time Northwestern Mutual Financial Representative, Fred Goodwin. Prior to Northwestern Mutual Financial Network, he worked for a Financial Services Internet Firm and an Employment Database Firm both which he founded.
John focuses his business on a comprehensive planning process to include, estate and business planning.
John is actively involved in his community. He is the President of the Princeton Alumni Association of Kansas City, Executive Council and Advisory Board Member of the Salvation Army, Board Member of Grace United Community Ministries and K-Life Ministry. He is also the Board Director and Treasurer of FRA of Northwestern Mutual.
In his free time John enjoys playing tennis and being a member of the Kansas City Country Club and the YMCA.
Matthew Griessel, CLU®, ChFC®, CFP®Financial Representative Kyle HaeusserFinancial Representative Russell Haley, CLU®, ChFC®Financial Representative Joseph Hart, CLU®Financial Representative Jonathan HartFinancial Representative David Heeter, CLU®, ChFC®Financial Advisor Mark HolderFinancial Representative
Mark was introduced to Northwestern Mutual as a referral from a current Financial Representative. Like many referrals, Mark knew he wanted a career change, but was not sure what he was looking for. Six years later Mark not only found a new career, but a career that fit his strengths. Previously a store manager local grocery store chain, Mark was drawn to the income potential and the ability to work for himself. Mark explains, “You have to take risks to be successful, but it certainly pays off.”
Mark believes that a professional with a good work ethic and a couple years of real-world experience would be a successful Financial Representative. Mark wants recruits to know, “If you are looking for an opportunity to make a difference in people’s financial lives, but also make money knowing that you are doing the right thing for your clients, then this is the career for you.
Robert HullFinancial Representative Jeff Imlay, CLTCField Director
Jeff started his career as an insurance broker with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network 1990. In 1991, Jeff was the leading 1st year Rep, and in 1993, he was the leader among all reps under 4 years. On a national basis he has earned the Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards. He has been a member of the 100 Lives Club and a consistent qualifying member of MDRT.
Over the years, Jeff has developed expertise in the area of Disability Income and Long Term Care. He currently serves as our specialist in these areas of planning as well a continuing his own personal practice. Jeff is serving has served as a field advisor to the Home office in the specialty product lines of Disability and Long Term Care. He has also been a sales mentor to new associates as they begin their career. Jeff is married to Becky and they have three children.
Brian IsmertFinancial Advisor Russell JenkinsFinancial Advisor Joe B Jones
Nancy JonesFinancial Representative Assistant Tim Kaiser, LUTCFFinancial Representative Ryan J Kramer
Abby LaraCollege Unit Director Douglas LeikerFinancial Representative Brian LesterFinancial Representative Michael Lewis, CLU®, ChFC®Financial Representative Ryan O Neil LewisFinancial Representative Tyler Kenneth MarkhamFinancial Representative Blake Martin, MBAField Director Ashley MathenyFinancial Representative Mary Ann Mc Tigue, CLU®Financial Representative David McAbee, CLU®, ChFC®Wealth Management Advisor David is a graduate from Washburn University with a Bachelor’s degree in business administration. He began his career with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network in 1978 after being referred by a pension specialist with another life company. Prior to Northwestern Mutual, David was an underwriter for two years and a sales specialist for three.
David has obtained the Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) designations. In 1997 he was awarded the Agent Community Service award from Northwestern Mutual.
His areas of specialty are investment and retirement planning.
David is currently involved as President of the Advisory Board of The Capper Foundation. He also served as chairman of the Board of Trustees for The Capper Foundation as well. Paul MeyerFinancial Representative Timothy Moyer, CLU®, ChFC®Financial Advisor Thomas Mulhern, CLU®Financial Representative Frank MulhernFinancial Representative Intern Jim North Jr, CLU®, ChFC®Financial Advisor Jim North SrFinancial Representative Ron PaulFinancial Representative Scott PenningFinancial Representative Jared PetersFinancial Representative Dale J Peterson, CLU®Financial Representative Allin PhisterFinancial Representative James Porter, CLU®, ChFC®Financial Representative Brett L. RogersFinancial Representative Marvin RomerFinancial Representative Donald Rothwell JrFinancial Representative Ken SchmidtFinancial Representative Geoff Stalker, CLU®Financial Advisor Curtis Stilley JrFinancial Advisor Jake StoetznerFinancial Representative Clinton StullFinancial Representative Steve Terbovich, CLU®, ChFC®Financial Representative Lance TrammellFinancial Representative Andrew J WattersFinancial Representative Kent Wilson, CLU®, ChFC®Financial Advisor Jared WirsigField Director David Yaktine, CLU®, ChFC®Financial Advisor |
