Hello, I am Ben. I started Simplified Planning and Investments out of a deep desire to make a real difference in people’s lives. For nearly a decade, I have had the privilege of guiding individuals and families through some of their most important financial decisions. Over time, I realized my greatest fulfillment comes from building meaningful relationships, truly understanding people’s stories, and helping them find peace of mind in areas that often cause stress and uncertainty. This led me to create a firm centered on people first - where financial planning is about more than money; it’s about impact, purpose, and simplicity. At Simplified Planning, everything begins with a passion for people. This firm was built on the belief that the foundation of finacial planning is built on relationships, trust, and helping others live with greater peace and purpose. Our purpose is to equip you to make confident financial decisions with clarity and ease. Every story is unique, and so is every financial plan. Exceptional financial planning starts with listening and understanding. That’s why we take a holistic, relationship-driven approach - thoughtfully blending overarching strategies with the important details that matter most to you. Because we work on a fee-only basis, our only focus is providing sound advice that puts your best interests first. By viewing your financial life as an integrated system - cash flow, investments, taxes, insurance, retirement, and estate considerations - we ensure each piece works together seamlessly, so your money serves your goals and values. Our aim is to simplify complexity, bring clarity to uncertainty, and provide a roadmap that balances today’s priorities with tomorrow’s vision. Outside of work, my life is centered around my family. We love traveling and discovering new places together. I stay connected to my community through commitments to my church, volunteering, and teaching personal finance. I’m also a high school football official, a passionate sports fan, and yes - one of those lawn guys. I look forward to connecting, understanding your story, and helping you create a financial life that reflects both your goals and your values - bringing clarity, confidence, and meaning every step of the way.

Hello, I'm Mike. I founded Teacher Wealth to raise the standard of financial advice to educators. As a former teacher, I understand the challenges that educators face with their finances; as well as the unique opportunities. Unfortunately, in many ways, the financial services community has ignored the profession. I am trying to change that. Teachers deserve better! Many families just need someone to walk with them as they make important decisions. To really get to know them. To ask them the right questions. To challenge them. To offer them accountability. I am honored to be this person for my clients. At Teacher Wealth, we like to say that "it's not just about the money." Instead, the focus is on how money can best create clarity, security, and fulfillment in our lives. The K-12 financial literacy education movement is a passion of mine and I try to help with that by serving on the board of the Iowa Jump$tart Coalition. On the personal side, I've been married to my best friend Tisa for over 20 years. We live in chaos most of the time in our Des Moines, Iowa home as we raise our four awesome kids. We do our best to prioritize our marriage over everything else except our faith. We are active members of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Des Moines.

Travis specializes in working with those nearing and in retirement. He takes a transparent and collaborative approach to helping clients define their best life and outlining the steps necessary to get there. His services include cash flow analysis, tax planning, investment management, risk management, and estate planning. This can be offered via one-time Planning Engagements or ongoing Full-Service Advisory offerings.