Kate Wallace, CFP®, ChFC®, RICP®, APMA®

President & Senior Wealth Advisor

kate.wallace@basepointwealth.com
(319) 826-1898

The reason I got into this business...

My degree from Cornell is in Psychology and Secondary Education. I always wanted to be a teacher. I remember the first time I taught a neighborhood friend to ride his bike without training wheels; it was so satisfying! Although I didn’t end up teaching high schoolers, what I love about my career is the same feeling I get today when I help someone achieve a financial goal. It is very fulfilling to be a part of the process.

One thing I am doing to help our community...

My community means so much to me as does my role on the board at our local YMCA, and volunteer with HACAP (Hawkeye Area Community Action Program).

Outside of work, my passions include...

I’m a founding member of Orangetheory Fitness Cedar Rapids, which is my favorite place for “me time.”  I recently joined a women’s tennis team and have enjoyed playing when my schedule allows.  

I’ve always been interested in Ancient Egypt, so I love to visit museums with exhibits or read about their civilization.

Who doesn’t enjoy a Netflix marathon in their spare time? I’ve recently been watching the television sitcom, “Cheers.” It’s such a great show and a little walk down memory lane.

One goal I am saving for...

I am proud to say that we are in the midst of accomplishing a goal we saved for - paying for our son, Jake’s, college education!  He’s a student at the University of Iowa.  Go Hawks!

The primary way I am advancing my career knowledge...

My most recent advancement was acquiring my APMA (Accredited Portfolio Management Advisor).

Every year I enjoy taking the time to keep up on my continuing education requirements to keep my CFP designation current.  

My personal financial plan is focused on...

My personal financial plan is focused on financial security. Like a lot of my clients, I don’t ever want to worry about money.  I just want my family and I to feel secure in our financial situation.

I am trying to expand what is possible with money by...

Applying my years of experience and hours of advanced education to help my clients. Being in this career allows me to help others by utilizing my time, resources, and knowledge of the financial industry to better help the people I care about most.

W. Allen Wallace, CFA, CPA/PFS, CFP®

Chief Investment Officer

allen.wallace@basepointwealth.com
(319) 826-1898

The reason I got into this business

I love solving problems. This profession provides an endless stream of opportunities to turn important financial problems into financial successes for our clients. While the basic rules of financial planning are simple, mastery of the depth and layers of complexity is definitely not easy!

One thing I'm doing to help our community

Kate and I enjoy supporting the local YMCA after many years of support from them growing up.

Outside of work, my passions include

Learning new things, watching my children grow, and spending time with friends and family.

One goal I'm saving for

Education is very important to me, and it is important to my family to provide a sound education for our children.

The primary way I'm advancing my career knowledge

I am constantly reading - my children think I'm a book with arms and legs.

My financial plan is focused on

Priority number one is managing the things we can control, while also preparing ourselves for the things we can't.

I'm trying to expand what's possible with money by

I aim to identify strategies that are tested by time and using them in creative ways that provide opportunities while minimizing risk.

From the Desk of W. Allen Wallace, Chief Investment Officer:

Insights & Principles

Landis T. Wiley, CFP®

Managing Partner & Senior Wealth Advisor

landis.wiley@basepointwealth.com
(319) 826-1898

The reason I got into this business

As a child, I saw the impact good financial planning and advice can have on people.  My parents were fortunate to work with an advisor in a day and age when the industry was littered with salesmen and brokers.   At the age of 10, I got to see their adviser's work in action, and I was fascinated.  By the time I got to college, I knew eventually I wanted to get into financial planning.

One thing I'm doing to help our community

I enjoy volunteering for organizations where my problem solving nature can help the organization grow or become more successful.  Ask me today which one I'm working on, it's probably different than a week or month ago!

Outside of work, my passions include

First and foremost is my family:  my wife Sally and three sons, Beckett, Theo, and Grady make my day.  Beyond that, I love to golf, and do yard work.  "Down time" isn't a thing I do well at!

One goal I am saving for

I figure college might cost about $500,000 per kid by the time mine get there (sarcasm, maybe...).  So let's go with that one.  

The primary way I am advancing my career knowledge

I love to read - anything and everything.  I find having a breadth of knowledge on topics both related and seemingly unrelated to financial matters is incredibly helpful when working with clients. Beyond that, I try to talk to as many people in the industry as I can, and shamelessly borrow the best ideas.

My personal financial plan is focused on

Stability for my family, and balancing the long term savings needs and goals with the requirement that we still enjoy life in the here and now.

I'm trying to expand what is possible with money by

Being as knowledgeable about as many things as I possibly can be, so that when a client or a peer looks to me for an idea, I have a solid foundation from which to dive in and go chase down the solution that nobody else would think to find.

Bryan Knudson, CFP®

Managing Partner & Senior Wealth Advisor

bryan.knudson@basepointwealth.com
(319) 826-1898

The reason I got into this business...

After graduating from Iowa State with a degree in Marketing, I was introduced to this career path. From there, the intricacies of the world of investing and finance had me hooked and I was determined to learn all I could about the business. Before I knew it I was on my way to earning my CFP® and have now been helping others find the balance between finance and lifestyle for 14 years.

One thing I am doing to help our community...

My wife and I are avid recyclers. We do everything we can to reduce our carbon footprint, not be wasteful, and repurpose as much as we can.

We know this will provide a better world for our two children and hope to set a great example for them to follow.

Outside of work, my passions include...

Family is always number one - my wife Jess, and our children, William and Whitney, are my world. We all enjoy living a healthy lifestyle through fitness, outdoor recreational activities like hiking, camping, and skiing, and finally, pairing new recipes with our favorite wine.

One goal I am saving for...

We are in the process of finishing our basement. I love working with my hands and plan on completing as much work as possible myself.

The primary way I am advancing my career knowledge...

My biggest goal right now is to enroll in the Masters of Financial Planning program at Iowa State next year. I know I can also always count on my peers to provide a valuable perspective and often use other professionals in the industry as a resource.

My personal financial plan is focused on...

Short Term - Cash flow for the current calendar year, a ski trip to Montana next year, and finishing the basement. Intermediate Term - my children’s education and the success of our business.

Long Term - a relaxing and adventurous retirement.

I am trying to expand what is possible with money by...

I often try to encourage my retirement-ready clients to think about their legacy. Who do they want to benefit? A charity? Their family? Their community?

Katie Ortgies, CRPC®

Chief Compliance Officer & Director of Operations

katie.ortgies@basepointwealth.com
(319) 826-1898

The reason I got into this business

After I graduated from UNI in 2008, I didn’t have a clear understanding of where life could or would take me. There was one thing I knew: I love to help people. When I started with the firm in 2011, I realized that my passion to help people was equally matched by the services and advice we provide through investment management and financial planning. Helping our clients achieve financial success is our priority.

One thing I am doing to help our community...

I am an active member and volunteer at Lisbon United Methodist Church. I currently sit as the co-chair of Worship & Nurture Committee which involves organizing worship services and acting as a leader in the praise band. I am looking to expand my volunteering through Junior Achievement, Waypoint, and the Red Cross.

Outside of work, my passions include...

Spending time with my family, especially my husband, Chris and son, George. I also enjoy playing my guitar, singing, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, crafting, and reading.

One goal I am saving for...

My husband and I are currently saving up for our retirement and education for George.

The primary way I am advancing my career knowledge...

I am fortunate enough to be surrounded by individuals who challenge my investigative skills, urge me to dig deeper, and support my desires to learn more in the ever-morphing financial environment. My long-term goal is to attain my CFP® (Certified Financial Planner) designation.

My personal financial plan is focused on...

As an accumulator, and having recently started a family, saving is one of the hardest things to do, but I am always up for a challenge.

Gary Godfrey, MBA, ChFC®, RICP®

Senior Wealth Advisor

gary.godfrey@basepointwealth.com
(319) 826-1898

The reason I got into this business...

I became a financial advisor to provide sound financial advice that allows people to prosper and obtain the retirement lifestyle they desire.

One thing I am doing to help our community...

I am an active volunteer with Habitat for Humanity.

Outside of work, my passions include...

I am an avid hobby woodworker and enjoy traveling and snow skiing.

One goal I am saving for...

I am excited to be saving up for a trip to Italy my wife and I are planning to take in 2018.

The primary way I am advancing my career knowledge...

I am passionate about studying any areas relevent to my individual clients’ needs - most recently that is in the form of my RICP® (Retirement Income Certified Professional) designation.

My personal financial plan is focused on...

As I prepare for retirement in the next few years, my current focus is on our budget and planning for retirement.

I am trying to expand what is possible with money by...

My financial conversations start with the basics, such as the prioritization of spending, and a savings plan for the future. This allows for the creation of options and opportunities for my client.

Scott Cooley, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, RICP®

 Wealth Advisor

scott.cooley@basepointwealth.com
(319) 826-1898

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – Basepoint Wealth LLC (www.basepointwealth.com), the largest fee-only wealth management firm in Cedar Rapids is proud to welcome Scott M. Cooley, CFP® as a Certified Financial Planner™ professional and Wealth Advisor.

Scott joins Basepoint Wealth from Northwestern Mutual where he served as a Financial Advisor based out of Coralville, IA for nearly seven years.  He joins the firm with significant experience working with a diverse group of clients, including significant experience working with those in fields of medicine, research and higher education.

“I’m very excited to be joining the extremely knowledgeable, all-fiduciary advisors and staff at Basepoint,” said Cooley.  “I truly believe the way they advise is in the best interest of their clients and what the financial industry should strive to emulate.”

Landis T. Wiley, Managing Partner added, “We are excited to welcome Scott to our advisor team.  His thoughtfulness and attention to detail in working with clients on complex planning and investment needs are a great fit with the principles of transparency and unbiased advice on which Basepoint Wealth operates”.

Scott will be located at the Basepoint Wealth office at 4144 Golf Street NE in Cedar Rapids and can be reached by phone at (319) 826-1898 or email scott.cooley@basepointwealth.com.

Shayne Boles

Associate Wealth Advisor

shayne.boles@basepointwealth.com
(319) 826-1898

The reason I got into this business...

As a recent college graduate, I understand the pressures of financial stability. I chose this path to not only gain the knowledge and experience to help myself, but to also help others attain financial confidence.

One thing I am doing to help our community...

My favorite volunteer activity is assisting in Special Olympics Iowa programs.

Outside of work, my passions include...

I can often be found at the gym getting in a workout, playing pickup games (usually basketball), or cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes, my alma mater.

One goal I am saving for...

Like most individuals my age, I currently am saving up to buy my first home and to eventually start a family.

The primary way I am advancing my career knowledge...

I am fortunate enough to work in an environment where I am always learning from the knowledge and experience of my coworkers.

My personal financial plan is focused on...

My financial plan is to instill discipline into the management of my money - save now, spend later.

I am trying to expand what is possible with money by...

Similar to my financial plan, I am working on staying disciplined and sticking to a budget that not only is comfortable, but allows me to achieve my long term goals.

Aaron Epstein

Associate Wealth Advisor

aaron.epstein@basepointwealth.com
(319) 826-1898

The reason I got into this business...

After attending Mount Mercy University and receiving my bachelor’s degree in accounting, I made the decision to enter the finance industry with the hopes of using my knowledge to help people make educated decisions in pursuit of achieving their financial goals.

One thing I am doing to help our community...

I enjoy coaching club youth soccer in Eastern Iowa. I have had the pleasure of helping kids that are unable to afford the price of competing by working with a group of parents to create an “everybody plays” program - ensuring that any child that wants to participate has the opportunity.

Outside of work, my passions include...

I thoroughly enjoy sporting events, spending time in the outdoors, traveling to new places with my fiancé, and creating irreplaceable memories with family and friends.

One goal I am saving for...

In 2016, I made the purchase of a new home with my fiancé and we are saving once again so we can complete a few home improvement projects: finishing the basement, extending the deck, and possibly a pool if she gets her way.

The primary way I am advancing my career knowledge...

Being new to the industry I try to absorb more advanced knowledge through collaborating with others, reading a variety of literature, and listening to financial podcasts.

My personal financial plan is focused on...

Like most millennials, I am focused on paying off my liabilities, while putting additional cash toward my retirement savings.

I am trying to expand what is possible with money by...

I plan to have enough money saved to be able to travel the world in retirement.

Ann K. Finneman, MBA

Client Service Associate

ann.finneman@basepointwealth.com
(319) 826-1898

The reason I got into this business

I earned my BBA degree from University of Iowa in Management Information Systems and my MBA from Dominican University in River Forest Illinois.  I enjoy using my business background and experience in Customer Service to help people.  The financial industry provides the opportunity to work with a team to help clients achieve their financial goals.      

One thing I'm doing to help our community

I enjoy being involved in the community in several ways.  I am a sustaining member of the Junior League of CR.  The JLCR is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving  our community through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.  I worked on several of our projects including Science Station, and Old McDonalds Farm and on the Under the Harvest Moon Fundraiser.  I am also a member of PEO, which is an organization with a primary focus on providing educational opportunities for female students worldwide.  I have also participated in community projects such as Scouting for Food and other service projects with our sons during their scouting journey to the rank of Eagle Scout. 

Outside of work, my passions include

My passion outside of work could be summed up as ‘my family’.  Spending time with family is the focus of most of my time outside of work.  This includes participating in our sons’ school activities, tennis matches, band concerts, PTA, Foundation for Performing Arts, band concerts, Children’s Theatre Board-Friend of Poppy, cheering on the Hawkeyes, scout events, church activities, theater and travel. 

One goal I'm saving for

Currently we are focused on saving for our boys’ college educations.  Planning for more travel in the future is also a goal.  We have enjoyed taking our kids on trips to expose them to different cultures along with learning the history of our country.  I think it is important to provide experiences for our kids in a variety of ways including earning scout merit badges relating to academics, fitness, the outdoors, community service, helping others along with an appreciation for the arts.    

The primary way I'm advancing my career knowledge

I am fortunate to utilize my skills from both prior work experience in the corporate world and being self-employed as an AP Consultant.  Expanding my knowledge into the financial industry by learning from my coworkers is something I’m excited to be doing.  

My financial plan is focused on

My financial plan is focused on providing stability for our family so we may accomplish our long term goals while providing the opportunity to enjoy life.  

I'm trying to expand what's possible with money by

Being new to the job, I am enjoying learning financial strategies from our knowledgeable team at Basepoint Wealth.  

Bailey K. Hinrichs

Client Service Associate

bailey.hinrichs@basepointwealth.com
(319) 826-1898

The Reason I got into the Business:

I’m new to the finance industry. When I graduated college with a degree in Child and Adult Family Services, I thought I would be working with adults in need or Human Resources.  I was attracted to Basepoint Wealth because ultimately this is a business of helping people, which is what I’m passionate about.

Outside of work my passions include:

I enjoy going to the gym. It’s a little something to unwind from the day while also being active.  

Having “chill out” days with my friends and family, watching Netflix, having a barbeque, a fire, anything relaxing is my favorite!

I love taking my dog, Riggs, on walks and playing fetch with him when it’s nice outside. Although we do play fetch inside most days!

I love to travel! I haven’t gone anywhere super exciting, but I love having a little get-away to have fun in a new place, even if that means just visiting a near-by town or state for the weekend.

One goal I am saving for:

Like most people my age, I’m focused on paying off my student loans.

The primary way I am advancing my career knowledge: 

I’m young and I’m excited to learn about financial planning and apply it to my own financial plans.   I’ll be ahead of my peers by starting to save for my retirement early.

I also have a goal of going back to school to get my master’s degree.

My financial plan is focused on:

Saving to buying a house.   I also want to save for retirement so I can live comfortably.

I’m trying to expand what’s possible with money by:

I’m learning everything I can. Being in this industry opens my eyes to all the possibilities we can all do with money, and how far a dollar can really go.

John Carstensen

Associate Financial Analyst

john.carstensen@basepointwealth.com
(319) 826-1898

Why I got into the business

Helping people is something I have always desired in a career.  After graduating from the University of Iowa with a degree in Economics, I found that finance was the best avenue for me to pursue something I love while still helping and educating the people within my community.

One thing I am doing to help our community

In the spring, I volunteer as a golf coach. The best part of volunteering as a golf coach is watching students develop their game both physically and mentally. There is nothing more exciting than seeing a drastic improvement in a golfer due to how they think their way around a golf course.

Outside of work, my passions include

Baseball, golfing, fishing, and spending time with family and friends.

One goal I am saving for

As a recent college graduate, I have begun saving for a new place to live and a new vehicle.

The primary way I am advancing my career knowledge

Studying for the Chartered Financial Analysist designation.

My personal financial plan focuses on

At the moment, my focus is primarily paying off student loans and increasing my emergency funds. Once I feel comfortable with those, I plan on developing my financial portfolio.

I am trying to expand what is possible with money by

Expanding my experiences and relationships.  I am a firm believer that possessions cannot bring happiness.  True happiness is found in developing relationships and sharing experiences and memories with others close to you.

Marci Flanagan

Director of First Impressions - Cedar Rapids

The reason I got into this business...

After a couple of years as a substitute teacher, I knew I was ready for a family. I was able to devote my time and energy to being a full-time mother of four daughters. The opportunity to work within the community again came when I was offered a position as a receptionist for a tax office, which eventually led me to the transition of my position as Office Manager at Basepoint Wealth.

Outside of work, my passions include...

I love making our house a home, and spending time with family and friends. I enjoy healthy eating and walking regularly, as long as it is at least 70°! Our cat, Donovan holds an extra special place in my heart.

One goal I am saving for...

Although we are not quite there yet, as empty nesters, my husband and I have our eyes on the prize: RETIREMENT!

The primary way I am advancing my career knowledge...

I am always learning on the job; constantly asking questions and listening to my coworkers.

My personal financial plan is focused on...

See goal I am saving for... RETIREMENT!

I am trying to expand what is possible with money by...

Continuing to engage in smart saving and wise investing has shown me that I can reach my goals.