Matt focuses on investment planning, money management and building strong relationships with clients. Working directly with individual, family and institutional investors, he reviews clients’ portfolios, long-term plans and investment performance and helps guide them through retirement. Matt has worked as a Financial Advisor with Wells Fargo Advisors since 1996. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and has attained his Series 7, 63, 65 registrations, and Life and Health Insurance industry license.

In 2009, 2018, 2019 and 2021, Barron’s named him the top financial advisor in Iowa and among the state’s top five advisors between 2010 and 2024 as a part of their Top 1,000/1,200 Advisors list1. Forbes named him in their list of the Forbes Top 250 Wealth Advisors in 2022 and 2023. Other notable recognition includes being listed in the Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024) and #1 in Iowa for Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams in 2024.  Matt was recognized as a Premier Advisor by Wells Fargo Advisors from 2011-2022.

Matt graduated magna cum laude from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, with a degree in finance and a minor in accounting. Matt and his wife, Bridget, have three children: Blake, Parker and Brooklyn. He is the past Chairman and a current board member of the Blank Park Zoo. He is also Past President of Des Moines Golf and Country Club and board member for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa. Outside the office, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, attending his kids’ sporting events, traveling, and playing golf.

The Barron’s Top 1,000/1,200 Advisors rankings are based on assets under management, revenue generated for the advisors’ firms, and the quality of the advisors’ practices.  Investment performance isn’t an explicit factor because clients have varied goals and risk tolerances.

• 2024 Barron’s Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: Awarded March 2024; Data Compiled by Barron's based on the time period from Oct. 2022 - Sept. 2023 (Source: Barrons.com).

• 2023 Barron’s Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: Awarded March 2023; Data Compiled by Barron's based on the time period from Oct. 2021 - Sept. 2022 (Source: Barrons.com).

• 2022 Barron’s Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: Awarded March 2022; Data Compiled by Barron's based on the time period from Oct. 2020 - Sept. 2021 (Source: Barrons.com).

• 2021 Barron’s Top 1,200 State By State Advisors: Awarded March 2021; Data Compiled by Barron's based on the time period from Oct. 2019 - Sept. 2020 (Source: Barrons.com).

• 2020 Barron’s Top 1,200 State By State Advisors: Awarded March 2020; Data Compiled by Barron's based on the time period from Oct. 2018.- Sept. 2019 (Source: Barrons.com).

• 2019 Barron’s Top 1,200 State By State Advisors: Awarded March 2019; Data Compiled by Barron's based on the time period from Oct. 2017 - Sept. 2018 (Source: Barrons.com).

• 2018 Barron’s Top 1,200 State By State Advisors: Awarded March 2018; Data Compiled by Barron's based on the time period from Oct. 2016 - Sept. 2017 (Source: Barrons.com).

• 2017 Barron’s Top 1,200 State By State Advisors: Awarded March 2017; Data Compiled by Barron's based on the time period from Oct. 2015 - Sept. 2016 (Source: Barrons.com).

• 2016 Barron’s Top 1,200 State By State Advisors: Awarded March 2016; Data Compiled by Barron's based on the time period from Oct. 2014 - Sept. 2015 (Source: Barrons.com).

• 2015 Barron’s Top 1,200 State By State Advisors: Awarded February 2015; Data Compiled by Barron's based on the time period from Oct. 2013 - Sept. 2014 (Source: Barrons.com).

• 2014 Barron’s Top 1,000 Financial Advisors: Awarded February 2014; Data Compiled by Barron's based on the time period from Oct. 2012 - Sept. 2013 (Source: Barrons.com).

• 2013 Barron’s Top 1,000 Financial Advisors: Awarded February 2013; Data Compiled by Barron's based on the time period from Oct. 2011 - Sept. 2012 (Source: Barrons.com).

• 2012 Barron’s Top 1,000 Financial Advisors: Awarded February 2012; Data Compiled by Barron's based on the time period from Oct. 2010 - Sept. 2011 (Source: Barrons.com).

• 2011 Barron’s Top 1,000 Financial Advisors: Awarded February 2011; Data Compiled by Barron's based on the time period from Oct. 2009 - Sept. 2010 (Source: Barrons.com).

• 2010 Barron’s Top 1,000 Financial Advisors: Awarded February 2010; Data Compiled by Barron's based on the time period from Oct. 2008 - Sept. 2009 (Source: Barrons.com).

• 2009 Barron’s Top 1,000 Financial Advisors: Awarded February 2009; Data Compiled by Barron's based on the time period from Oct. 2007 - Sept. 2008 (Source: Barrons.com).

The Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors ranking algorithm is based on industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC, which does not receive compensation from the advisors or their firms in exchange for placement on a ranking. Investment performance is not a criterion. 

• 2024 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2024; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/22 - 6/30/23 (Source: Forbes.com).

• 2023 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2023; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/21 - 6/30/22 (Source: Forbes.com).

• 2022 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2022; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/20 - 6/30/21 (Source: Forbes.com).

• 2021 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded February 2021; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/19 - 6/30/20 (Source: Forbes.com).

• 2020 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded January 2020; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/18 - 6/30/19 (Source: Forbes.com).

• 2019 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded February 2019; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/17 - 6/30/18 (Source: Forbes.com).

The Platinum Council distinction is held by a select group of Financial Advisors within Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network as measured by one or more of the following: completion of educational components, business production from the previous year, and professionalism.  Additional consideration may have included best practices and team structures.

The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams rating algorithm is based on the previous year’s industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria.

• 2024 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams: Awarded January 2024; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 3/31/22 - 3/31/23 (Source: Forbes.com).

The Forbes Top 250 Wealth Advisors (AKA Top Wealth Advisors) rating algorithm is based on the previous year’s industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria.

• 2024 Forbes Top 250 Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2024; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/22 - 6/30/23 (Source: Forbes.com).

• 2023 Forbes Top 250 Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2023; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/21 - 6/30/22 (Source: Forbes.com).

Chris Pedersen is a Senior Financial Advisor for Fryar Private Wealth in West Des Moines, IA. Chris works closely with clients to help develop customized plans focused on short-term and long-term financial goals. Chris’s focus is to create, implement, and review customized investment portfolios to help meet client’s individual investment objectives and goals, while at the same time managing risk.

Professional Experience

Chris joined Wells Fargo Advisors in November of 2010 after working in sales and operations with Wells Fargo & Company for 17 years. Chris focuses on serving high-net-worth investors and their families. Chris graduated from Iowa State University in 1993 with a degree in Business Administration.

Education/Designations

• Bachelor of Business Administration from Iowa State University.
• CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification (CFP®)

Family & Personal

Chris and his wife, Rosemary, have resided in central Iowa for most of their lives. They have two children, Bennett and Ella. In his free time, Chris enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf and traveling.

Andy has been in the investment industry since 2002. Prior to joining Fryar Private Wealth in 2002, he was a relationship manager for DCM. Andy has managed a broad number of mandates including high net worth individuals, retirement plans, and non-profit endowments.

Andy holds a BS in Finance and Economics from the University of Northern Iowa.

At Fryar Private Wealth, Ted focuses on investment planning, investment management, and tax/estate planning for individuals, families, and business owners. Having worked nearly 30 years in financial services, his experience spans personal and commercial finance, retail lending and leasing, personal and consumer insurance, investment planning, and retirement planning for businesses. 

Ted’s ultimate goal for the people and families he supports? Simply confidence. He enjoys helping clients understand their financial situation so they can make important life decisions with confidence and achieve their goals. 

In his personal life, Ted prioritizes time with his family, including his wife of 27 years and their two sons, both who serve in the military. He enjoys Hawkeye (and occasionally Cyclone) sports, outdoor activities, fishing in northern Minnesota, and being involved in his faith community. He and his wife have been active members of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church for more than 20 years, and have served on parish council, various committees, and special events over the years. Ted also served as a public member of the Iowa Architectural Board.

Trent Hilbrands is an Associate Financial Advisor at Fryar Private Wealth, where he is involved in all areas of the practice with a particular focus on advising clients. He holds the Series SIE, Series 7 and Series 66 registrations as well as life and health insurance. Trent brings a unique perspective to the financial advisory field, having spent the last two years as a middle school math teacher at ADM, where he honed his skills in education and communication.

Trent grew up in LeMars, Iowa, and later played basketball at Northwestern College, showcasing his passion for sports both on and off the court. He continues to enjoy watching and playing sports in his free time. Trent is also deeply committed to his family and friends, valuing the time he spends with them.

He currently resides in Adel, Iowa, with his wife, Devyn, and their dog, Sammy. Trent’s diverse background and dedication to helping others make him a valuable asset to the Fryar Private Wealth team.

Matt’s primary role on the team is building custom portfolios for clients to help them meet their financial needs and goals. He is responsible for trading, asset allocation, asset selection and investment research. When building investment portfolios for clients, he carefully considers each one’s unique financial situation, objectives, time horizon and risk tolerance. Prior to his current role with the Fryar Private Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, he was an Investment Management Specialist at Wells Fargo & Company. He also served as an Investment Banking Analyst at Piper Jaffray and an Investment Grade Corporate Bond Research Intern at Principal Global Investors. He is a CFA charterholder, and his industry registrations include his Series 7 and 66, as well as his life and health insurance license. Matt has a degree in finance from the University of Iowa.

Matt was born and raised in Greenfield, Iowa. Matt and his wife, Haley, have three children: Harper, Madison and Lincoln. He is a member of the CFA Institute and the CFA Society of Iowa. Outside of work, he enjoys coaching his kids’ sports.

Brooks Kehoe serves as the Director of Wealth Strategies at Fryar Private Wealth. In his role, Brooks leverages his extensive experience as a CPA to develop comprehensive eMoney plans for clients. He plays a crucial part in nurturing and managing long-term client relationships.

Before joining Fryar Private Wealth, Brooks honed his expertise in tax management at prominent firms. He was a Tax Manager at RSM LLP, where he oversaw complex tax planning and compliance for a diverse clientele. Prior to that, he served as a Tax Associate at PwC LLP, gaining invaluable experience in tax advisory and strategy. Brooks is a licensed CPA in the State of Iowa (no longer practicing), reflecting his deep knowledge and commitment to financial excellence.

Brook holds both a bachelor's and a master's degree in accounting from the University of Iowa, where he developed a strong foundation in financial principles and practices. He also has his Series SIE, 7 and 66 registrations as well as life and health insurance.

Originally from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Brooks enjoys spending time with his family and participating in outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing. He is also an avid supporter of the Iowa Hawkeyes. 

Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network is not a legal or tax advisor.  Any discussion of taxes represents general information and is not intended to be, nor should it be construed to be legal or tax advice.  Tax laws or regulations are subject to change at any time and can have a substantial impact on an actual client situation.

Joan’s role is to provide excellent customer service to clients while also providing administrative support to the team’s financial advisors. Her responsibilities include working with clients to resolve their various service needs, opening accounts, managing client paperwork, scheduling appointments for new and existing clients, and executing trades. She takes pride in providing the highest level of service to every client. Joan has been in the industry for more than 35 years. Her industry registrations include her Series 7, 66, 65 and 63, as well as her Iowa insurance license. She has an associate degree in applied science from Des Moines Area Community College. Joan has two children and three grandsons. Her community involvement includes work with Youth Shelter Services, Meals from the Heartland, and Children’s Cancer Connection. Joan enjoys spending time with family and friends, overseeing her family farm, being outdoors and traveling.

Lisa meets various service requests for clients, including preparing account reports, supporting financial reviews, handling scheduling needs and initiating trades. She is dedicated to satisfying client requests quickly and efficiently. She also works hard to build and maintain clients’ confidence and trust, so that they know their tasks will be completed properly and they will always be in communication. Lisa joined Fryar Private Wealth in 2010. Before coming to Wells Fargo Advisors, she spent four years at an independent firm, first as a registered client associate, then in the compliance and licensing department. Her professional industry registrations include Series 6, 7, 63, 65 and 24, as well as her life and health insurance license. Lisa and her husband, Matt, have one son, Michael, and a dog, Cubbie. Outside the office, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, being a passionate Hawkeyes, Packers and Cubs fan, spending time outdoors and being active.

Karla has worked in the financial services industry for more than 33 years and is passionate about ensuring that every client has an exceptional experience. Karla’s role at Fryar Private Wealth is to provide superior customer service to clients as well as provide administrative support to the financial advisors. Her responsibilities include working with clients to complete service requests, opening accounts, managing client paperwork and scheduling appointments. For Karla, the opportunity to serve individuals and families with a tailored and personal approach has been a rewarding part of growing with the Fryar Private Wealth team. 

In her free time, Karla loves to take in Iowa State and Chicago Cubs games. She also loves to travel and be outdoors. Her favorite place to volunteer is Meals from the Heartland, a faith-related organization that believes in the importance of prayer, volunteer service and financial giving to feed starving children.