Brian Patrick Carlson

Brandi, our Director of Operations, joined the Northwestern Mutual West Des Moines District in 2015 before joining the Carlson Team in 2020. She received her bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University. Brandi holds her Life, Health, and Long Term Care licenses as well as FINRA Series 6 & 63 registrations. In her spare time, Brandi enjoys spending time outdoors going camping, boating, and traveling with her husband, Michael. 

As Director of Operations, Brandi is focused on: 

• Overseeing day-to-day administrative and operational functions for the district 
• Getting Team Carlson clients into and through underwriting for risk based products and client service needs 

What fictional place would you most like to visit? 

Central Perk

Marc, our Director of Client Relations, began his career with Northwestern Mutual in 2017 before joining the  team in 2019. He earned his bachelor's degree in Accounting and financial services from the American Institute of Business and currently holds his Life and Health licenses. In his free time, Marc enjoys golfing with friends and traveling. 

As our Director of Client Relations, Marc is focused on: 

• Managing client communications 
• Coordinating meetings/ scheduling 

What fictional place would you love to visit?

Eric Foreman’s basement

Katlynn, our Marketing and Client Relations Manager, began her career with Northwestern Mutual in April of 2022 after earning her bachelor's degree in Marketing from Iowa State University. In her free time, Katlynn loves spending time on the lake, traveling with her Fiancé, and playing with her puppy, Louie. 

As our Marketing and Client Relations Manager, Katlynn is focused on: 

• Client communication 
• Administrative support 
• Overseeing and implementing marketing strategies 

What fictional place would you love to visit?

Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory

Cole, our Director of Investments and Operations, began his career with Northwestern Mutual in 2020. He earned his bachelor's degree in finance at Central College and currently holds his Life & Health licenses in addition to FINRA Series 6 and 63 registrations. In his free time, Cole enjoys golfing and watching baseball.

As our Director of Investments and Operations, Cole is focused on: 

• Creating comprehensive financial plans for our clients
• Opening and managing investment accounts 

What fictional place would you love to visit?

The Sandlot

Matt, our Director of Planning and Investments, began his career with Northwestern Mutual in 2022. He earned his bachelor's degree in psychology and a doctorate in occupational therapy. He has been serving in the Army Reserves for 8 years and is currently a Captain in command of a medical company. 

Matt holds his Life and Health licenses and has successfully completed the SIE, Series 6, and Series 63 examinations.

In his free time, Matt enjoys spending time with his family and playing Army.  

As our Director of Planning and Investments, Matt is focused on: 

• Oversees client experience
• Manages operations of insurance practice 

Tommy, our Director of Recruitment and Selection, joined Northwestern Mutual in May 2023. He brings over 10+ years of valuable experience as a business executive in operations management and business development, making him a  key asset to our team. In his free time, Tommy enjoys coaching his kids’ sports teams, hunting, traveling and spending relaxing moments on the lake. His well-rounded interest and profession expertise make him a great fit for Northwestern Mutual.

As our Director of Recruitment and Selection, Tommy is focused on: 

• Fueling our firm’s growth and development
• Empowering career changers
• Providing guidance and support to new advisors, equipping them with the tools to thrive and excel.

What fictional place would you love to visit?

Ken’s Mojo Dojo Casa House