When I started working in my dad’s financial planning business as a high school kid, I could not have imagined that being in this business would change my perspective on family and faith. Very early on, I knew my Dad was much more than a trusted financial advisor. Today, I realize that in the course of helping to guide our clients, the financial advice is really secondary. It is the vehicle we use to fund their family story. While we take great pride in our track record of being second to none in the financial advice we provide, it is the work we do to help our clients live with purpose that gives deeper meaning to what we do. As a result, they become family to us. Hearing about a child being accepted into their dream school, setting a retirement date, or helping a client to plan a family vacation with all the kids and grandkids — those are the most rewarding moments as an advisor. Knowing too, that we will be one of the first calls made when a spouse dies, or a layoff happens, or when mom or dad have become frail, is a responsibility we don’t take lightly. Today, nearly 30 years into this journey, my kids are working in the business, and our story is completely intertwined with those of our client family. My definition of family hasn’t changed, but my perspective certainly has. One of my favorite Bible verses is Jeremiah 29:11, which reads “For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you hope and a future.” At each milestone we share in our client’s lives, I get to see how God has used the work we do to help them live out the plans He has for their lives. That is a true blessing. I am very thankful to be on this journey with you—our extended client family. It is because of our journey together that I strive to help our clients “Live their Legacy with Confidence” every day. Like all families, we celebrate when a new member joins the group. We would love to be a part of your story, to see how we might be able to help you gain more confidence to live the legacy God has created you to live.
Whether I’m relaxing at home or helping folks in the office, I always strive to be a lifelong learner. I believe there’s tremendous value in understanding who my clients are, what’s standing in their way, and where they’d like to go. From there, I help provide thoughtful solutions and close guidance to better move them towards those goals.
I was raised to cherish my family, live my faith, and enjoy the little things in life. That’s why some of my favorite memories from childhood are the days spent fishing on the lake with my grandparents. In the quietest moments, it’s amazing how much clarity can come. This is a lesson I keep with me today while serving clients and enjoying time with loved ones.
My wife of over 25 years, Julie, and I are blessed with four amazing children: Bengt, Anna, Aden, and Eddie. With three moved away beginning their adult life and Eddie starting college, we are enjoying even more quiet moments than ever before.
Julie and I enjoy a road trip and exploring new places. When we’re out traveling, we’ll always try out new restaurants and breweries wherever we are. But when we stay close to home, don’t be surprised if you see me at Wrigley cheering on the Cubs or Soldiers Field watching the Bears.
Now that you know a bit about me and my family, I thoroughly look forward to learning more about yours. I’m here to help guide you through today while pursuing your greater purpose for tomorrow.
As an Associate Wealth Advisor, I specialize in helping young professionals take control of their finances, and build a smart, confident path to wealth. Whether you’re navigating career changes, planning for future retirement, or simply want to feel more in control of your financial future—I’m here to be your guide, sounding board, and strategist.
I believe that financial planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming or intimidating. It can actually be empowering—when you have the right person in your corner. My mission? To help you make the most of your money, so you can live fully, stress less, and get closer to that two-comma dream.
Outside of the office, I’m fueled by strong coffee, spontaneous travel, and a good thriller novel (bonus points if there’s a twist ending… or a little spice). I’m also a proud karaoke queen—whether it’s a power ballad or a guilty pleasure, I’m not afraid to take the mic. If you’re ever down to talk life, money, or mystery novels over coffee, I’m your girl.
As the Client Service Manager, my passion lies in creating seamless, behind-the-scenes processes that allow our team to deliver service that is prompt, accurate, and consistent. I find great satisfaction in knowing that the systems I help build and maintain allow us to serve our clients with excellence and heart. Every task I take on, no matter how big or small, plays a part in supporting the important life moments we help our clients navigate—whether it’s retirement, a big move, or simply a sense of ease and clarity in their financial journey.
I believe that the strength of a firm comes from how well it serves others, and my role allows me to support both our team and our client family in meaningful ways. There’s a quiet joy in helping things run smoothly, making space for thoughtful conversations, and ensuring that our clients feel cared for—not just as account holders, but as people with stories, dreams, and legacies.
Outside of the office, you’ll likely find me making memories with my family and friends or planning my next adventure—ideally one that feels like a “two-comma life” dream getaway! I also have a soft spot for baby animals, quirky little pets, wildlife, and the beauty of nature. These moments serve as a reminder that life is made up of meaningful details, both big and small—the very kind I aim to recognize and support in my work each day.
It’s a blessing to be part of a team that treats each client like family and truly wants to see them live their legacy with confidence. I’m grateful to contribute to that mission in my own unique way.
Meet Katie Umland, the co-host of our “Retirement Readiness” podcast.
There are a few things in this world I’m passionate about: my family, my health, and helping our team guide clients to live for their greater purpose. Oh, and I can’t forget deep-dish pizza.
In April 2022, my husband, Alex, and I welcomed our first child, Dylan. As any parent knows, bringing new life into this world really helps you understand what’s most important. That’s why I truly cherish the time spent with my family, like the evening walks we take together every night.
In fact, I’m convinced that heaven looks an awful lot like reading a book on the couch while my husband watches the White Sox game with Dylan by his side.
I know family and faith are important to the clients we serve as well. That’s why caring for your and your loved one’s financial future is a responsibility I don’t take lightly. I consider all clients an extension of my family, and that means caring for their financial needs as if they were my own.
Hi there! I’m Erin, the newest Client Service Associate at PrairieView Wealth & Tax Advisors. I’m very passionate about building strong relationships with clients through all stages and phases of life. I graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and have always loved working in roles where I can connect with people and make a difference.
Outside of my work at PrairieView, I am also an instructor at Orangetheory Fitness. Coaching classes gives me a chance to share my energy and encourage others to reach their goals – something I find really rewarding. When I am not working, you’ll usually find me reading, listening to music, or spending time with my family. I’m very close with my parents and two older sisters, and I love hanging out with my dog, Sally. Whether at work, in the studio, or at home, I try to bring a lot of positivity and personal care to everything I do.
