Joel Barjenbruch started his journey in financial services with a simple but firm commitment to honesty and relationship-centered service Since beginning his career in 2007 and establishing his firm in 2010, he has steadily developed JS Financial, Inc. into a dependable retirement and wealth planning name He maintains a straightforward philosophy: the client always comes first His dedication to this approach has helped earn long-standing trust from clients nationwide.
Serving with Understanding and Purpose
Joel leads his practice from offices in both Lincoln and Omaha, where he partners with families, individuals, and business owners on retirement strategies and financial planning He does not focus on selling products but on offering thoughtful, personalized solutions. By following a fiduciary standard, he ensures that his client’s needs remain at the center of every decision His process begins with listening and ends with a strategy built around the client’s unique goals
Grounded in Community and Family Values
Barjenbruch was raised in Nebraska and graduated from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. He and his wife live in Lincoln with their three children and remain active in their local church, where he has served on the council and as president. His sense of place is deeply tied to his
identity Whether at home or in the office, he brings the same commitment to his community and the people he advises professionally.
A Familiar Face Beyond the Office
Joel believes in the importance of everyday connections. You might find him coaching at the YMCA, attending local sports events, or chatting at a community gathering He’s approachable, familiar, and grounded in shared experience These relationships are not incidental to his work they’re essential. He makes it a point to remember names, follow up sincerely, and ensure every client feels seen, heard, and valued beyond the numbers
A Lifelong Learner Committed to Mastery
Joel Barjenbruch has always seen education as key to responsible financial service. His certifications include Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP®), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®), Life and Annuity Certified Professional (LACP®), and Certified Life Underwriter (CLU®). These designations reflect a continuous pursuit of knowledge, not for titles but to serve others better His learning is driven by a desire to build confidence and clarity for those who trust him.
Giving Back Through Financial Education
Joel extended his dedication to learning by becoming an educator himself in 2016 As an adjunct instructor, he has volunteered at various institutions that support adult learners across the Midwest and beyond. He shares financial lessons in a clear, relevant way, helping others better understand and navigate the decisions they face Teaching has become another way he fulfills his mission offering value to others without seeking recognition
Personalized Plans with a Broader View
Barjenbruch works alongside his team at JS Financial to develop strategies tailored to the individual Whether helping clients plan their retirement, manage risk, or organize their legacy, he emphasizes customized guidance over one-size-fits-all answers. He asks thoughtful questions and listens carefully Every solution is designed not for short-term outcomes but to support financial peace of mind over time. His planning reflects the life and goals of the person behind the numbers.
Ethics That Guide Every Action
Joel Barjenbruch applies the fiduciary standard not simply because it is expected but because it aligns with his values He does business by acting in his client's best interests He provides complete fee transparency, outlines options clearly, and avoids unnecessary complexity His approach is to make sure people understand what they’re doing, why they’re doing it, and how it supports their goals That kind of honesty is foundational to lasting trust
Recognized for Service and Results
Joel has consistently been recognized within his profession for delivering outstanding service. He has qualified for the Million Dollar Round Table for 12 years, reaching the Top of the Table level 10 times This achievement, limited to top financial professionals worldwide, reflects the depth of his commitment and the consistency of his service. These results have been earned through relationships built over time, not through high-pressure tactics or fleeting achievements
Celebrating a Milestone of Purpose
Barjenbruch and his team at JS Financial will mark 15 years of service in August 2025. Managing over $100 million in assets today, the firm continues to grow not through advertising but through referrals and word of mouth Clients stay with him because they feel respected, heard, and guided with care. This milestone reflects consistency and trust, which are grounded in service rather than self-promotion and achieved through steady work and strong relationships
A Mission Lived Out Daily
Joel operates with a mission that is as clear as it is consistent: “Put good out in the world through financial education, without expectation ” These words are not branding they represent a quiet commitment to do what is right, whether noticed or not. He approaches each conversation, plan, and teaching opportunity to help That mindset shapes how he serves others and what he chooses to contribute.
Values That Inform Every Decision
Joel Barjenbruch is guided by a set of core values that shape his daily work. He believes in constantly moving forward, seeking growth, learning, and better outcomes He places relationships above revenue, choosing to build meaningful and lasting connections Finally, he believes that doing good matters, especially when it goes unseen. These values help him stay centered and consistent across his many roles in life and work
Quietly Giving Where It Matters
Barjenbruch believes deeply in giving back. He supports causes close to his heart, including serving as the Head Chef Sponsor for the Empty Bowls Benefit Luncheon, which supports the Lincoln Food Bank He also volunteers to educate seniors on retirement finances and coaches youth sports. He gives his time and energy not for praise but because he sees value in helping others succeed His involvement is genuine, personal, and intentionally low-profile
Earning Trust Through Transparency
Clients have described Joel as someone who explains financial matters calmly and is approachable He doesn’t rush conversations or rely on technical jargon Instead, he provides straightforward information, outlines costs clearly, and encourages clients to ask questions That level of transparency helps build comfort and confidence, ensuring that clients stay informed and in control of their financial decisions
Looking Ahead With Steady Purpose
Barjenbruch continues to find purpose in his work. In 2025, he was recognized in the “Faces of Lincoln” feature for his contributions to wealth management and is set to appear again in 2026 Yet, for him, recognition remains secondary What continues to matter most is helping clients feel secure, confident, and heard. As JS Financial enters its next chapter, he remains focused on what has always guided him relationships, service, and quiet impact
Professional Affiliation and Compliance
Joel Barjenbruch is a financial planner who offers securities and investment advisory services through LPL Enterprise (LPLE), a registered investment advisor, a member of FINRA/SIPC, and an affiliate of LPL Financial LPLE and LPL Financial are not affiliated with JS Financial Inc The Million Dollar Round Table is a global membership of independent financial professionals, and qualifiers are based on production
