WHO WE ARE

Vision with a Plan

Experienced Minds. Client-Focused Mission.

Sentient Wealth Group was founded by Josh Decker, CFP® on the belief that true wealth extends beyond numbers — it's about aligning your finances with what matters most.

From day one, our mission has been clear: to make the complex simple. What began as a vision has grown into a planning-focused firm now serving over 500 families as they navigate the critical transition from building wealth to distributing it with purpose and clarity.

What sets us apart is the depth of our experience and the scope of our approach. As a comprehensive financial planning resource, we coordinate all aspects of your financial life — from tax strategies to estate planning considerations — to help ensure every piece works together seamlessly.

At Sentient Wealth Group, we bring experienced minds to your planning process, always focused on one goal: helping you move forward with intention.

Delivering Guidance with Purpose

We are dedicated to reshaping the wealth management experience through comprehensive, client-centered service that extends beyond investment management.

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Our goal is to empower our clients to build futures they are proud of, for themselves and for future generations.

Guiding Principles That Define Us

Our core values guide every decision we make and every relationship we build. They form the foundation of our commitment to delivering thoughtful guidance and a high standard of service in all that we do.

Relentless Improvement

We continuously seek better ways to serve, refine, and evolve — never settling for "good enough."

Client First

As fiduciary advisors*, we are legally and ethically bound to act in your best interest, always prioritizing your needs.

Selfless Service

Your goals are our focus. We measure success by how well we help you pursue yours.

Clear Communication

We prioritize open and honest dialogue — ensuring you understand every aspect of your financial plan.

Integrity

We strive to uphold the fiduciary standard of care, operating with transparency and accountability in every interaction.

*Advisors are only legally obligated to act as a fiduciary in advisory relationships. Advisors are not legally obligated to act as a fiduciary in brokerage only relationships.

Disciplined Process. Personal Connection.

At our core, we serve people. Wealth management is simply the tool we use to do it.

Josh Decker

Josh Decker, CFP®

CEO & President | Certified Financial Planner™

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Matt Martinson

Matt Martinson

Financial Advisor

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Josh Ask

Josh Ask

Financial Advisor

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CFP® 25+ Years Experience Five Star Award 2026

Josh is the CEO and President of Sentient Wealth Group, where he leads with a deep commitment to delivering personalized, holistic financial guidance. After earning his degree in Economics from St. Olaf College, Josh began his career in consumer finance at Norwest Corp (now Wells Fargo) in 1995. He transitioned into financial planning and investment management in 2000 and earned his Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) designation in 2004.

With over two decades of experience, Josh specializes in helping clients prepare for retirement, uncover tax-saving opportunities, manage investments for long-term growth, and plan for the smooth transfer of wealth to future generations. His approach is marked by professionalism, reliability, and a genuine desire to improve the financial lives of the individuals and families he serves.

Josh has been consistently recognized for his excellence in client service, including multiple Five Star Wealth Manager awards, most recently in 2026, as featured in Mpls.St.Paul Magazine and Twin Cities Business.*

Outside of the office, Josh enjoys traveling, attending live music events, and spending quality time with his wife, Katherine, and his three children - Maja, Ava, and Jack. He also makes it a tradition to escape the Minnesota winter for a well-deserved family getaway each year.

*Award disclosure: https://fivestarprofessional.com/wmdisclosures/MSPWM26
Award based on 10 objective criteria associated with providing quality services to clients such as credentials, experience, and assets under management among other factors. Wealth managers do not pay a fee to be considered or placed on the final list of Five Star Wealth Managers.

15+ Years Experience Five Star Award 2026 Series 7 & 63

Matt has been helping individuals and families navigate their financial futures since 2002. As a financial advisor at Sentient Wealth Group, Matt serves not just as a planner, but as a dedicated partner—guiding clients through various stages of retirement planning with care, insight, and a deeply personal approach. He believes that the best financial strategies begin with listening, and he takes the time to understand each client's unique goals, values, and circumstances before crafting customized, thoughtful plans.

Matt's commitment to his profession has earned him multiple accolades, including the prestigious Five Star Wealth Manager Award - most recently in 2026 - as featured in Mpls.St.Paul Magazine and Twin Cities Business.*

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business and Marketing from Winona State University, where his studies in adventure tourism mirrored his passion for exploration and new experiences. Matt also maintains his Series 7 and 63 registrations held through LPL, along with a Life and Health insurance license—underscoring his broad expertise and commitment to professional excellence.

Matt lives in Eagan, Minnesota with his wife, Emily, and their four children: Hazel, Oliver, Beatrice, and Esme. When he's not working or spending time with his family, you can find him exploring the great outdoors and discovering the hidden gems of his home state.

*Award disclosure: https://fivestarprofessional.com/wmdisclosures/MSPWM26
Award based on 10 objective criteria associated with providing quality services to clients such as credentials, experience, and assets under management among other factors. Wealth managers do not pay a fee to be considered or placed on the final list of Five Star Wealth Managers.

Josh is a financial advisor at Sentient Wealth Group, where he brings a fresh perspective and a strong passion for empowering the next generation of investors. A graduate of the University of St. Thomas with a degree in Financial Management, Josh is committed to helping individuals in their 20s and 30s establish solid financial foundations while planning confidently for the future.

With a relatable, down-to-earth approach, Josh specializes in guiding young professionals through key life milestones - including managing debt, building budgets, investing strategically, and preparing for major life purchases. He believes that effective financial planning is rooted in trust and long-term relationships, and he takes pride in forming meaningful partnerships with his clients to help them achieve their goals at every stage of life.

Josh is passionate about financial education and strives to make personal finance accessible, actionable, and relevant. His approachable style and clear communication make him a sound guide for those navigating the early stages of their financial journey. Josh holds Series 7 and 63 registrations held through LPL, along with a Life and Health insurance license.

Josh Ask is solely an investment advisor representative of Great Valley Advisor Group, Inc., and not affiliated with LPL Financial.

Meet Our Full Team

Get to know all the professionals dedicated to your financial success

Suzanne Krusell Smith

Suzanne Krusell Smith

Chief Marketing & Growth Officer

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Lisa Decker

Lisa Decker

Operations Manager

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Samantha Haugen

Samantha Haugen

Client Services Manager

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Katherine Renfro-Decker

Katherine Renfro-Decker

Marketing Executive

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Kim Reeves

Kim Reeves

Executive Assistant

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As Chief Marketing & Growth Officer at Sentient Wealth Group, Suzanne brings a strategic, results-driven approach to brand development, client acquisition, and sustainable business growth. With a strong foundation in strategic planning and execution, Suzanne leads marketing initiatives that enhance visibility, strengthen client relationships, and deliver measurable impact across the organization.

Suzanne joined the financial services industry in 2011, following an early career in the buying offices of Target Corporation. A graduate of the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management with a degree in Marketing, she combines corporate discipline with an entrepreneurial mindset—developing client-centric strategies that align closely with Sentient Wealth Group's mission and growth objectives.

Under her leadership, the firm has launched innovative programs and campaigns that have elevated brand presence and delivered strong returns on investment. Suzanne is passionate about fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence, ensuring that every marketing initiative not only reflects the firm's values but also supports meaningful connections with clients.

Outside of work, Suzanne is a dedicated fitness enthusiast who enjoys spending time with her husband, Brad, and their two college-age daughters – Brita and Ava. From driving growth at work to staying active in her personal life, Suzanne brings energy, focus, and a passion for progress to everything she does.

As Operations Manager at Sentient Wealth Group, Lisa plays an essential role in ensuring the firm's day-to-day operations run seamlessly. A Burnsville native, Lisa brings a strong sense of dedication, precision, and leadership to her work—qualities that have defined her professional journey from the very beginning.

Lisa earned her Bachelor of Science degree from St. Cloud State University before launching a successful career in the mortgage industry. At Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, she served as both a mortgage processor and underwriter, where her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to client service earned her the Customer Service Excellence Award three years in a row.

Today, Lisa oversees the operational backbone of Sentient Wealth Group, managing everything from internal workflows and systems to client-facing processes. Whether handling account distributions, scheduling appointments, or addressing client questions, Lisa ensures that each interaction is timely, accurate, and rooted in care.

Her deep operational knowledge, combined with a collaborative spirit, makes Lisa a key leader within the firm. She fosters a positive, well-organized environment that supports both team success and exceptional client service. Simply put, Lisa is the glue that keeps the team—and the office—running smoothly.

As Client Services Manager at Sentient Wealth Group, Samantha (Sam) brings a rare blend of leadership, empathy, and operational excellence to every client interaction. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, Sam holds a bachelor's degree from the College of Science and Health, where she developed a strong foundation in communication, collaboration, and critical thinking.

Before transitioning into the financial services industry, Sam built her leadership skills in the salon and hospitality space, where she was recognized for her commitment to excellence and her ability to connect with others.

At Sentient Wealth Group, Sam plays a pivotal role in ensuring a seamless and high-touch client experience. From onboarding new clients and processing important documentation to managing day-to-day communication and in-person connections, she is the engine behind many of the firm's client service operations. Her attention to detail and proactive approach helps ensure that clients feel supported and confident at every stage of their financial journey.

Outside of work, Sam enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring shops and restaurants in St. Paul, and getting outside for a run when the weather allows. Her commitment to building a welcoming, responsive environment—both professionally and personally—helps foster the client-first culture that defines Sentient Wealth Group.

Katherine brings over a decade of experience in the insurance and financial services industry to her multifaceted role at Sentient Wealth Group. With a background that spans sales, client service, and agency oversight, she has developed a deep understanding of both the operational and relational sides of the business. Her professional credentials include dual licenses in Life and Health Insurance across Minnesota and Wisconsin, as well as extensive experience in Property and Casualty insurance - making her an asset to both our team and our clients.

In her marketing role, Katherine wears many hats. She plays a key role in enhancing the client experience, supporting operational efficiency, and assisting with bookkeeping efforts. Her ability to pivot between strategic and tactical responsibilities ensures the smooth day-to-day functioning of the firm while keeping our brand and service experience strong and cohesive.

Katherine's dedication to excellence is matched by her commitment to community service. She is a three-time Rotary Paul Harris Fellow, a recognition that reflects her ongoing efforts to give back and make a positive impact beyond the workplace.

Outside of work, Katherine enjoys gardening, traveling, and exploring new places. She treasures time spent with her husband and family, finds joy in playing piano and creating art, and is devoted to her little dog, Bruce.

With over 40 years of experience in customer service, management, and marketing, Kim brings a wealth of knowledge and professionalism to her role as Executive Assistant at Sentient Wealth Group. A native of Mankato, Minnesota, Kim has called the Twin Cities' south metro home for the past 35 years. She joined the team in December 2023 and quickly became an integral part of the firm's day-to-day operations and client service experience.

In her role, Kim ensures that all client meeting materials are prepared with accuracy and delivered in a timely manner. She is often one of the first friendly voices or faces clients encounter, whether assisting over the phone or in person. Her warm demeanor, attention to detail, and problem-solving mindset help create a smooth and welcoming experience for every client interaction.

Kim's ability to manage multiple priorities with calm efficiency makes her a vital support to both advisors and clients alike. Her decades of professional experience, paired with a genuine commitment to helping others, reflect the values that define Sentient Wealth Group's service approach.

Outside of work, Kim enjoys spending time with her family and friends, especially cheering on her grandkids at their various sporting events. She finds joy in being of service to others, and she values quiet moments reading or spending time outdoors, taking in all that nature has to offer.

Let's Plan for What's Next—Together

Your financial journey deserves more than one-size-fits-all advice. If you're preparing for a life transition, we're here to guide you with clarity and care.

Schedule a Discovery Call