LeadingEdge Team
Achieving results at the highest level will require discipline and follow through on your plan. Our team is built to serve you, and to keep you on track for your most important goals. Our team shares a commitment, a passion, and an enthusiasm to helping you achieve your goals.
Greg has been helping individuals and families achieve financial security since 1990. Originally from Fairfax, Minnesota, he brings a personal touch to financial planning, fueled by a desire to see his clients succeed. Greg is married to Kim and has two sons, both married.
Greg’s passion for financial services stems from his natural aptitude for risk management, honed during his studies at St. Cloud State University where he received a Bachelor of Science in Insurance. Outside of work, Greg enjoys hitting the greens for a round of golf, casting a line for some peace and quiet while fishing, or cruising on the water with family and friends. If Greg won the lottery, his priority would be to support children’s organizations and causes.
What Greg loves most about his career is the human connection. Witnessing clients achieve their dreams, whether it's a comfortable retirement, sending children to college, or accessing capital in times of need, brings him immense satisfaction. Greg is a firm believer in understanding each client's unique situation and goals. There's no one-size-fits-all approach in his book.
Through his experience, Greg has developed a particular expertise in working with physicians and other professionals. He and his team understand the specific financial needs of residents, fellows, staff consultants, and private practice owners. Greg empowers his clients to make informed financial decisions throughout their careers, from residency to established practices.
Greg's extensive knowledge and experience encompass wealth preservation strategies, allowing him to help financially successful clients protect their estates and ensure their legacy.
For more than a decade, Cody has served as a Wealth Management Advisor with Northwestern Mutual. Growing up in Faribault, Minnesota and settling in Rochester after college, he understands the importance of community and building strong relationships.
Cody and his wife Maria have four children. Cody is passionate about creating a secure future for his own loved ones; a passion that extends to helping his clients do the same.
Cody believes that financial planning shouldn’t be a mystery. He and his team will work with you to understand your goals and values to equip you with a personalized plan you can feel confident about. Open communication, honesty, integrity, and a commitment to confidentiality are the hallmarks of his approach.
When Cody isn’t helping clients, you’ll likely find him enjoying the great outdoors. Whether he’s waterskiing or playing card games with his kids (don’t expect any mercy), his competitive spirit shines through. But his favorite way to spend his time is with his family, unplugged at the cabin, simply enjoying each other’s company. He also enjoys volunteering with his church, where he runs the Wednesday night games for kids.
Cody was drawn to the financial industry because he enjoys helping people with something universally relevant – money. He credits his grandparents and other family members for instilling in him the importance of financial planning and stewardship.
With a healthy dose of coffee during the week (much needed with four young children), Cody thrives on finding solutions for inefficiencies and appreciates the challenge of navigating the complexities of financial planning.
Zach Kruger RICP®
Director of Planning and Investment Operations
Zach was born and raised in Clear Lake, Iowa, and he graduated from Wartburg College with a Major in Business Administration and an emphasis in Management. Zach currently lives in Pine Island, Minnesota with his wife, Irene, and their two rescue dogs, Raya and Ripley. He is a football, basketball, and rugby enthusiast. When he’s not at work, you can find him outdoors or at the CrossFit gym.
Zach has worked with Northwestern Mutual since 2018. He is a Retirement Income Certified Professional® and has obtained his FINRA; Series 6 and 63; and Life, Accident, and Health Licenses.
Lisa joined Northwestern Mutual in 2016. She primarily services our Advisory and Brokerage accounts but also assists in building Financial Plans.
Lisa has her Master’s Degree in accounting from the University of South Dakota and has passed the CPA exam. She also has her Life, Accident, and Health Licenses.
Lisa has lived in Rochester for the last 20+ years and enjoys attending the activities of her 3 children.
Tiphanie graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from Millersville University of PA. She started working with Northwestern Mutual in 2013 as a Financial Representative Intern, and has since held many roles. Tiphanie is currently our Director of Operations.
Tiphanie is married, and her husband proudly serves in the Army National Guard. They have 3 children who keep them very busy. In her spare time she enjoys hiking, baking, trying new restaurants & traveling with her family. She recently found a love for plants!
Tami joined our team in September, 2021. Tami serves as our Director of Client Experience by providing administrative support and overseeing the client experience.
Tami is married and has 2 daughters. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends at their Lake House in Northern Minnesota.
Sarah joined Northwestern Mutual in 2022. Sarah is passionate about supporting others as they reach their goals.
Sarah was born and raised in Mankato, Minnesota and graduated from Minnesota State University, Mankato in 2011. She spends her time outside of work with her family and enjoys traveling to the Family Cabin in Northern MN.