Who We Are

We are committed listeners, problem-solvers, and partners in planning for a life well-lived, centered on what you value most. 

Our Story 

Years ago, two recent grads and a pharmaceutical sales rep began new careers in finance, starting like many did at the time—in an insurance-centric company. 

There, they discovered a passion for guiding individuals and families through key financial decisions and planning for life's uncertainties. Over time, it became clear that their clients needed more than just insurance solutions; they needed guidance on their entire financial picture. 

In the basement of their office—over countless rounds of putt-putt—Chris, Brian, and Ryan began dreaming of building something different: a company founded on relationships first. They dubbed their early discussions the "Bat Phone" meetings, where big ideas started turning into steps to create a firm rooted in three core pillars: 

Independence 

Free from affiliations or sales quotas, they would offer advice that truly served their clients' best interests.

Lifelong Learning 

Recognizing the ever-evolving financial landscape, they committed to investing in people and technology to deliver the best client experience. 

Long-Term Relationships 

They aimed to design a model focused on ongoing guidance and support, not one-off transactions. 

The dream became reality in 2006, when the trio signed their first office lease as 'Argus Financial Consultants.' Ryan, fittingly, arrived straight from the hospital after welcoming his daughter, Claire, into the world—a reminder of why they started this journey: to help families build an independent and meaningful future. 


Since that day, the team has grown, the office has moved, and the firm has rebranded as 'Growtrust Partners,' intentionally choosing 'Partners' to better reflect their commitment to a collaborative approach, where it is not about them but their clients.  

Nearly two decades later, their mission remains the same: to help clients plan a life well-lived. And while the future is sure to bring new changes, their dedication to building lasting relationships and empowering clients to pursue their goals will never waver. 


Meet the Team

Brian C. Sandberg, ChFC®, AEP®

brian@growtrust.com

Hi, I'm Brian! I've been fortunate to guide clients through life's big moments since beginning my career in financial services in 1999. Over the past two decades, it’s been incredibly rewarding to build long-term relationships and see...
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Ryan P. Smith, ChFC®, CASL™, CFP®, AEP®

ryan@growtrust.com

Hi, I'm Ryan! Originally from Minnesota, I found my calling in financial services in 2000, driven by a passion for helping people create financial plans that align with their goals and dreams. With a degree in Business Administration...
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A. Christopher Engle, LUTCF, CFP®, ChFC®, AEP®

chris@growtrust.com

Hi, I'm Chris! I believe that a well-crafted plan and a commitment to lifelong learning are key to building a secure financial future. My career in financial services began in 1994, but my passion for practical, well-thought-out...
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Rachel Dick, MS, CFP®, AWMA®

LPL Financial Planner

Rachel@Growtrust.com

Hi, I’m Rachel! I grew up in the Grand Rapids area and am a proud Forest Hills Northern Husky – but I was raised a Wisconsin Badger. On top of being alumni, my Mom was a UW cheerleader and my Dad was none other than Bucky Badger...
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Michael Steinebach CRPC®, CFP®

Wealth Advisor

877-696-1919

Michael@Growtrust.com

Hi, I'm Mike! I have always been inspired by my father’s incredible work ethic. He maintained two jobs for 30 years to support our family and taught me the significance of every dollar he earned. Through his commitment to practical...
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Timothy T. Sullivan, MBA

tim@growtrust.com

Hi, I'm Tim! I grew up in Flint, Michigan, where I learned the value of hard work and commitment from a young age. My interest in finances began during my time in the Business and Finance office at Grand Valley State University, where...
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Peter M. Smith

pete@growtrust.com

Hi, I'm Pete! I joined GrowTrust Partners in 2007 after a 34-year career with 3M Company, where I gained extensive experience in business management, sales leadership, and international business development. My background in strategic...
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Jim Yost

LPL Registered Admin

jim@growtrust.com

Hi, I'm Jim! I’ve spent more than 42 years helping my clients navigate their financial journeys, and it’s been an honor every step of the way. My career in financial services began in 1976, but my problem-solving mindset goes back even...
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Lisa M. May

Client Services Manager

lisa@growtrust.com

Hi, I’m Lisa! I’ve been with Growtrust Partners since May 2013. I graduated from Aquinas College in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a minor in Accounting. As a Client Service Manager, I strive to offer...

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Monica J. Zweedyk

Client Services Associate

monica@growtrust.com

Hi, I’m Monica! I joined Growtrust Partners in August 2016, bringing 20 years of experience as an administrative assistant at a local CPA firm. I'm excited to bring my talents to our administrative team. My husband, Brent, and I live...
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