Comprehensive Solutions for More Confident Retirements

We’re here to provide the insight, security and strategies you need to build the future you deserve.

Our Planning Process

Your Retirement Itinerary

Did you know many Americans spend more time planning for vacations than they do retirement? By building Your Retirement Itinerary, we help bring that same energy and attention to detail to mapping out your financial future.

 

Step 1: Gather Your Essentials

Every adventure begins with preparation. We’ll help you take inventory of your financial assets, assess risks and define your goals to help you get ready for the adventure ahead.

Step 2: Chart Your Course

Together, we’ll design a personalized retirement itinerary that combines flexibility and structure, helping you anticipate any twists and turns while keeping your dream destination in sight.

Step 3: Embark on Your Journey

With your plan in place, we’ll stay on as your financial copilot, offering ongoing support and adjustments to keep your retirement path smooth and rewarding.

When it comes to retirement, MERIT Matters

You’ve earned your retirement through years of hard work and wise choices — and it deserves a plan built with equal dedication and excellence. By helping you Retire with MERIT, we deliver a comprehensive strategy that can put you on a path toward enjoying the rewards of all you’ve achieved

M: Medicare / Medical Planning

Health care costs can be one of retirement’s biggest surprises. We help you plan for potential medical expenses so you’re covered without compromising your financial stability.

Your legacy is an important part of your financial story. Our estate planning services help honor your wishes and take care of your loved ones.

Unforeseen market risks can disrupt your retirement dreams. We build strategies to help protect your plans and provide you with confidence in your financial future.

A steady and reliable income is the foundation of a fulfilling retirement. We create customized income strategies designed to sustain your lifestyle for decades to come.

Retire smarter by limiting unnecessary tax burdens. Our tax-efficient planning helps you maximize your savings and keep more of what you’ve worked hard for.

Tammy Hossfeld

Client Relationship Manager

Tammy is a Client Relationship Manager with Investor FAN and joined the company in 2023. She graduated from Washington State University in 1996 with a degree in Business Administration with Accounting and Finance concentrations. She worked in the accounting and finance industry for 25 years as a Certified Public Accountant and spanned several industries including public accounting, telecommunications, high tech, and financial professional services. Tammy passed the Series 65 securities exam in 2021.

Rod Ehrlich

CCO

Rod is the principal of Investor FAN and RIA Systems, which he runs on a daily basis. ​Prior to starting Investor FAN in 2011, he was the Vice President of Advisory Services at Pacific West Financial Consultants, Inc. from 2003 to 2012 where he served as Chief Compliance Officer and then VP of Advisory Services overseeing more than 200 Representatives and approximately $1.3 billion under management. He graduated from Kansas State University in 1991. Prior to working at Pacific West, he was at Merrill Lynch as a retail broker from 2000 to 2003.

Tyler Ellegard, CFA®

Senior Portfolio Manager, Gradient Investments, LLC

Tyler is a Senior Portfolio Manager at Gradient Investments, where he focuses on portfolio management, asset allocation, and investment research across multiple asset classes. He provides market insight and portfolio strategy to support client investment decisions. Tyler is a CFA® charterholder and has been featured in media outlets including Schwab Network, Reuters, and The Wall Street Journal.

Keith Gangl, CFA®

Senior Portfolio Manager, Gradient Investments, LLC

Keith joined Gradient Investments in 2018 and has more than 30 years of industry experience. Prior roles include senior portfolio manager for a large institutional asset management firm, managing a multi-billion-dollar portfolio. Keith is a CFA® charter holder, and has been featured in media outlets such as CNBC, Bloomberg, Investor’s Business Daily, Nasdaq and Reuters.  

michael binger, CFA®

President, Gradient Investments, LLC

As President, Michael is the leader of Gradient Investments and has been with the firm since 2012. He brings more than 35 years of industry experience, including prior roles managing multi-billion-dollar portfolios for an institutional asset manager. Michael is a CFA® charter holder and is a frequent contributor on CNBC, Fox Business, Barron’s, and the Wall Street Journal.

Emma Laskey

Client Experience Specialist

Originally from England, Emma brings a background in social work, where she developed a strong foundation in empathy, discretion, and thoughtful communication. Her people-first approach now guides the care and attention she brings to each client relationship.

At Retirement Risk Managers, Emma is dedicated to delivering a seamless and highly personalized experience for every client whether in person, over the phone or through video call. Everything from the customized scent of our office to the curated drink selection, Emma ensures the experience of our brand is everything it’s meant to be.

Outside of work, Emma enjoys attending live music and traveling. She especially looks forward to exploring more of the United States now that she calls it home, as well as spending time with her cats and husband.