Get to know Drew Bernhagen

Drew Bernhagen
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After earning a degree in Finance and Marketing from Wisconsin Lutheran College, Drew launched his career in financial services at Northwestern Mutual. In his first year, he ranked as one of the top five advisors in the southern half of Wisconsin — a testament to his work ethic and natural ability to connect with clients. At Northwestern Mutual, he developed a strong foundation in insurance planning while discovering his passion for helping people build and protect their future.
Seeking a more tailored and impactful approach to client planning, Drew made a strategic transition to Retirement Income Strategies. As part of an independent firm, Drew now brings flexibility and a holistic mindset to the retirement space, where he specializes in insurance-based solutions and personalized income strategies. His passion for advising comes from a personal family experience that highlighted the importance of having a solid financial plan — a story that continues to drive his commitment to serving others today.
Drew is known for his authentic, client-first attitude and his dedication to being a lifetime learner studying and earning designations. He values building meaningful relationships and believes that true financial planning is about more than numbers — it’s about people, purpose, and peace of mind.
Originally from Markesan, Wisconsin, Drew now lives in Verona. He enjoys spending time with his fiancée, Gracie, spending time at the racetrack with his brother and father, being a godfather and uncle, and staying grounded in his faith.