ABOUT US

BRINGING REASSURANCE AND CLARITY TO FINANCIAL PLANNING

“LUCK IS WHAT HAPPENS WHEN PREPARATION MEETS OPPORTUNITY.”

With this guiding principle in mind, Kathleen is on a mission as a Financial Advisor to empower her clients with a deep understanding of their financial landscape. Her aim is to assist them in making decisions aligned with their goals and values, ensuring that success isn’t merely attributed to chance but rather to deliberate planning and effort invested.

KATHLEEN OBERNEDER, CFP®, ChSNC®
Founder, Four Leaf Financial Planning

Kathleen Oberneder is a Certified Financial Planner® professional and Chartered Special Needs Consultant® with more than 24 years of experience guiding individuals and families through meaningful financial decisions. Like the Irish Caim reflected in the Four Leaf logo, Kathleen’s work is grounded in a simple idea: financial planning should create a circle of protection around the people and priorities that matter most. She provides comprehensive, independent advice rooted in a full understanding of each client’s financial life, bringing structure and long-term security to complex decisions.

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Kathleen founded Four Leaf Financial Planning to deliver planning-first guidance that prioritizes clarity over products and long-term partnership over transactions. Her clients include professionals, retirees, business owners, and multigenerational families who value thoughtful strategy and steady counsel.

Kathleen also has deep expertise in special needs planning. As a Chartered Special Needs Consultant®, she advises families navigating government benefits, special needs trusts, long-term care considerations, and the financial structures that support lifelong stability. This work is personal as well as professional. Her youngest daughter has Down syndrome, and that lived experience deepens the understanding and perspective she brings to families preparing for the years ahead.

Before entering financial services, Kathleen earned her Master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology and practiced clinically. That background continues to shape her advisory approach. She listens carefully. She explains clearly. She believes confidence grows from understanding.

Her professional path includes advisory roles at Principal Financial Group, Northwestern Mutual, and Crescendo Wealth Management before founding Four Leaf Financial Planning in 2024. She earned her Chartered Special Needs Consultant® designation in 2017 and her Certified Financial Planner® certification in 2025.

Raised in a family shaped by strong Irish traditions, Kathleen learned early the importance of preparation, perseverance, and taking care of one another. Those values continue to inform her work with clients today.

Kathleen lives on the North Shore of Milwaukee with her Physical Therapist husband, Dan, their three daughters (Lily, Caroline, and Emily), and their Labradoodle, Maggie Mae.

ASHLEY HARKEY, CLIENT SERVICE ASSOCIATE

B.A. in Psychology from California State University, Fullerton

Ashley’s passion for organization and team support shines through in her role at Four Leaf Financial Planning. With over a decade of experience in streamlining processes and managing schedules, Ashley is the behind-the-scenes force that ensures everything runs smoothly. Her dedication to helping others achieve their goals makes her an invaluable asset to our team and our clients.

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Ashley’s background is as diverse and vibrant as a California sunset. From the magic of the Walt Disney Company in Anaheim to the rewarding world of education, she has honed her skills in communication and coordination. These experiences have instilled in her a deep understanding of the importance of clear communication and meticulous attention to detail, qualities she brings to every client interaction.

Beyond her professional life, Ashley expresses her creativity through dance. As a teacher, choreographer, and performer, she understands the dedication and discipline required to achieve success. This same commitment and focus are evident in her approach to client service. Just as she brings joy and artistry to the stage, she brings enthusiasm and professionalism to Four Leaf Financial Planning.

Ashley is excited to be working alongside Kathleen and expanding her knowledge of the financial services industry. She cherishes her time with her husband and daughter and finds fulfillment in both her personal and professional endeavors.

ABOUT US

“LUCK IS WHAT HAPPENS WHEN PREPARATION MEETS OPPORTUNITY.”

Member of Financial Planning Association

Member of Academy of Special Needs Planners

Chartered Special Needs Consultant