Chris Filibeck, Managing Director Foster Klima

05/27/2026

This morning, the lighting at the office stopped me in my tracks. For a moment, everything paused....

The word INSPIRE was shining brightly—like a beacon, a lighthouse, a mindset…a reminder.

At Foster Klima, inspiring people isn’t just something we say—it’s what we do.

We inspire our clients to take control of their financial future by guiding them through a process that is both proven and predictable—helping them gain clarity and confidence in their lives. We become that beacon.

We also inspire our advisors by creating more than just a workplace—we’ve built an environment that’s energizing, creative, and growth-focused. A place where people are encouraged to think bigger, develop personally and professionally, and make a meaningful impact every day. We are that Lighthouse.

If you’re ready for more clarity, more confidence, or a career that truly inspires you…

Let’s connect.

05/06/2026

Sometimes when you need to get things done, you get up early or stay late and put in the time. To get what you want, you need to do things that most people including you are not often willing to do. One of the benefits of coming in early or staying late is I put some cool lights in the office that I get to enjoy...so does my team and the public driving by. Coming in early or staying late allows me to get things done and focus a little harder than when everything is going on during the day. This career can offer so many wonderful things and one is flexibility. If you want to be done early, get to work early!...This flexibility can also be dangerous so you need to make sure you are managing your time accordingly and then there are times you just need to just get to work!!

My dad always told me as a farm kid....Make hay when you can make hay because sometimes there may not be hay to be made!

Have a great day Everyone!!

05/04/2026

I spent last Thursday afternoon attending the Red River Valley Estate Planning Council's annual meeting with Guest Speaker Jeffrey Williamson, JD. The topic was Estate Planning After OBBBA: Asset Protection, Long term Care & Income Tax Efficiency. I also got to network with other Professionals - an attorney, an attorney transitioning to Financial Advising and two accountants that sat next to me for lunch. It's always good to spend some time on Education for my clients and my team...CE is a bonus!!

05/01/2026

We are excited to be working with you Danielle!!! We are doing amazing things up here in the Midwest at our firm.

We are thrilled to announce that Danielle Swann has become the new majority owner and Principal Owner of Foster Klima.

Danielle is making history as the first majority female Principal Owner in Guardian’s 166 year history.

Danielle has long been a driving force in our industry, leading with collaboration, purpose, and an unwavering dedication to helping people thrive. As majority owner, she will continue to build on our strong foundation while guiding Foster Klima into its next era of growth, innovation, and impact.

Please join us in congratulating Danielle on this historic accomplishment and celebrating what this moment represents for Guardian, our community, and the future of Foster Klima.

04/20/2026

A lot has happened in the last year so I decided to take some time to reflect and celebrate my One Year Anniversary with Foster Klima. This past year has been a year of Growth and Change in "my business world." There has definitely been some Growing Pains with actual blood, sweat and tears shed over the past year along with beautiful moments of laughter, grace and love.

A whole new system was learned
A new office location was created
A new team has been forged
A new family has been bonded

I need to Thank my Wife Angie, family, friends and everyone at Foster Klima and Guardian for their unwavering support.

I look forward to Celebrating the next 20 years of Awesomeness with all of you!

04/16/2026

A growing number of Americans are carrying credit card balances, highlighting ongoing financial pressure for many households.

Recent data shows that about 50% of credit card holders—roughly 111 million people—currently carry debt, marking a notable increase over the past several years.

At the same time, borrowing costs remain elevated. Average credit card interest rates are now above 23%, making it more expensive for balances to grow over time.

Some households are adjusting by cutting back on discretionary spending, delaying larger purchases, or relying more heavily on credit to cover everyday expenses.

These trends reflect how shifts in costs, interest rates, and income can influence day-to-day financial decisions across a wide range of households.


Source:

About 111 million Americans are carrying credit card balances, a 17% increase in five years, new research shows.

04/06/2026

A tax refund can be a welcome surprise, but deciding what to do with it matters.
From tackling high-interest debt to contributing to long-term goals (or simply treating yourself), every choice can reflect what’s most meaningful to you.



Sources:
FINRA, “6 Smart Ways to Use Your Tax Refund,” March 18, 2025

CNBC Select, “5 Smart Ways to Spend Your Tax Refund,” April 11, 2025

03/19/2026

I spent yesterday afternoon attending the Red River Estate Planning Council's Presentation on Income & Estate Taxes / Charitable Planning. The keynote speaker was Thomas Pauloski J.D., the National Managing Director for Bernstein Wealth Strategies. The event was well attended!!

The Red River Estate Planning Council is comprised of professionals who practice in the following areas:

Accounting
Appraisal/Valuation
Charitable Giving
Estate Planning
Financial Planning
Insurance
Legal
Tax

Looking forward to attending the next session and meeting more members of our community.

03/17/2026

🍀 Happy St. Patrick's Day! 🍀

Let's celebrate the rich culture and traditions of Ireland with joy and gratitude. Whether you're wearing green, enjoying some Irish music, or cooking up a delicious Irish meal, may your day be filled with luck and happiness!