Our Team
Justin “JJ” Kurtz
Hey there, I'm Justin Kurtz. Let me tell you that my journey to becoming the CEO and President of NRG Financial has been one wild ride. Picture this: I was deep into the boat-selling world, crushing it in Sales Management. But I realized I was missing precious time with my daughter, Irie. So, about six years back, I crossed paths with Justin Ellingson, and together, we dove into the company. Man, talk about a switch-up! It's been a game-changer, from chasing paychecks to discovering my knack for lifting others up. I live by this motto: "If the people around me are winning, I'm winning." And let me tell you, that vibe permeates every corner of NRG Financial. Our culture? It's off-the-charts amazing! The folks at NRG? They've quickly become my second family. I'm still learning, growing, and cheering on our fantastic team every day. I can't wait to see where this journey takes us next!
Jake Wunder
I am someone who never takes myself too seriously and loves being surrounded by people that I love. I love the outdoors and try to get out in the woods, marsh, or mountains as often as possible. NRG is not just a business; it is a family name because I am surrounded by people who care for me and want the best for me and everyone around me. It is easy to have a best friend, but finding best friends can be difficult. Not here; I have found my best friends to do life with
Our Team
Alicia Billock
I'm Alicia Billock, and my journey has been one of unexpected twists and turns. After graduating from the University of Minnesota Duluth with a theater degree, I initially found myself in retail management for seven years. However, feeling a yearning for more fulfillment and control over my schedule, I joined NRG just over a year ago. Little did I anticipate the profound impact this decision would have on my life. At NRG Financial, I was surrounded by an electrifying culture of like-minded individuals, all dedicated to mutual success. This career granted me financial freedom and introduced me to incredible friends and business partners. Most importantly, it gave me the flexibility to spend valuable time with my family. Joining NRG Financial has been a transformative experience, and I'm eagerly anticipating the next chapter of this exhilarating journey.
Our Team
Gabby Cohrs
Welcome to Gabrielle Cohrs' corner of excellence! With over five years of dedicated service as a vested agent at NRG Financial, Gabrielle is a shining example of success and commitment. Her remarkable achievements include pioneering first-year sales records within the company and nurturing a thriving clientele of over 1,000 individuals across Southern Minnesota. Beyond her professional prowess, Gabrielle's journey is underscored by her unwavering dedication to service. As an 18-year Air Force veteran and current Flight Medic, she embodies the ethos of selflessness and integrity. Drawing from her military experience, Gabrielle is forging her team on the Air Force Core Values pillars: integrity first, service before self, and excellence in what we do. In her household, Gabrielle is a successful professional and a devoted wife and mother to two boys. Her belief in the transformative power of hard work and perseverance is reflected her approach to business and life. She champions that grit and hard work can turn anyone into a diamond. Join Gabrielle on her journey of empowerment and service, where each interaction is infused with integrity, excellence, and a relentless drive to make a difference.
Dan Persons
IIf you had the opportunity to help Everyone you meet with the Best Product in the Industry, working alongside the Best People in the Industry, who would say no? However, if you could become a better person professionally and personally, you may say, “Yes, I did it ten years ago!”
Unfortunately, the past doesn’t need you anymore, but the good news is Tomorrow Does! The best time to plant a tree was 50 years ago, but if you didn’t, the best time is now!
Reflecting on five years in the business, I can truly say this is what I was meant to do! Professionally, I’ve been given the opportunity to be a part of a team that has added to my vocabulary the true meaning of Abundance and Service. When there are no limits on who I can serve other than the time in my day, Limitless Growth is Inevitable!
I earn the ability to serve my family with financial security, offer opportunities to travel, and participate in programs that will help my children with the skills they need to be successful in life! I also take my wife on Free Trips to places I couldn’t have dreamed of 10 years ago!
And who doesn’t want the freedom and ability to do all that while giving back to a community that has given so much to me?
I’d say there’s only one thing left to do… Let’s plant a tree!
Our Team
Samantha Risnes
As a mother of three who came from a career in the dealership, this was a no-brainer for a switch. NRG has provided much-needed earned flexibility to be a more involved parent and control my career. This isn't a "job" to me, but the opportunity to spread the word of such an amazing protection that makes sense. Everyone is uplifting and helpful, and all-around great people to work with. To be able to be a part of a team where everyone wants everyone to succeed, cheer on, and help isn't something you get just anywhere. My children will always come first to be someone who agrees, supports, and encourages; that is, a fantastic change.
Tyler Hardy
Before coming to NRG, I spent just nine years in the car business, where I met JJ one day. He worked with the dealership I worked for. I was brand new to that dealership and in a new town. We quickly became friends, and it became evident that the car business was not where I was supposed to be; it had been a stepping stone preparing me for something bigger. Joining NRG has allowed me to watch my daughter in her last year of softball and be there for my family when my uncle was hospitalized in Minneapolis. It has forced me out of my comfort zone and pushed me to places I never thought possible. JJ’s endless positivity, although sometimes annoying, is impossible not to let off on you. The journey has not been easy, but a few things worth having are. No matter how difficult it can be, it is 100% worth it.