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Team

TEAM Focus

At Universal Financial Strategies, we pride ourselves on our collaborative team approach, which we believe sets us apart from other financial firms. Our financial advisors work together to craft innovative retirement plans and strategies that are tailored to each client's unique needs and goals. Unlike some firms where advisors compete for clients, our team works harmoniously to ensure that every client receives the best guidance and support possible. When you choose us, you're not just getting one advisor - you're gaining access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise from our team of seasoned, licensed professionals. Let us help you navigate the path to a secure and fulfilling retirement with our dynamic and cohesive approach.


Are you ready to tackle some of life's biggest financial challenges? Look no further, because we've got you covered! Our team of experts can assist you with:

  • Crafting retirement investing and distribution strategies that will set you up for success
  • Navigating Social Security election timing to help maximize your income
  • Developing estate conservation, growth, and transfer strategies (and don't forget to ask about our complimentary one-hour review with a local estate planning attorney)
  • Implementing risk management and catastrophic healthcare strategies to protect your assets
  • Utilizing tax management strategies to keep more money in your pocket


But wait, there's more! We can also provide answers to burning questions like:

  • Can I retire early and still live comfortably?
  • Are my investments pulling their weight?
  • What's the best way to save for my kids' and grandkids' college education?
  • How do I create a solid estate plan?
  • How can I leave a legacy for my loved ones and favorite charities?
  • Do I have enough life insurance to safeguard my family's future?
  • How can I prepare for potential Long Term Care expenses?
  • Will my net worth continue to grow as I start drawing retirement income?

Our team has helped countless individuals facing similar challenges, and we're here to tailor a plan specifically for you. Let's work together to create a financial strategy that fits your unique situation.

Mike Puls

Financial Advisor/Partner

402-323-8141

mikepuls@ufslincoln.com

Mike is a lifelong Lincoln, Nebraska resident and a graduate of the University of Nebraska. He has been an Independent Financial Advisor with Osaic Wealth, Inc. since October of 2003. 

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James V. Predoehl

Financial Advisor/Partner

402-323-8141

jamesp@ufslincoln.com

James Predoehl is a Partner with Universal Financial Strategies and a Financial Advisor with Osaic Wealth, Inc., and a bonded Notary Public. He graduated from the University of Nebraska with B.S. Degrees in Economics and...

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Douglas A. Thompson

Financial Advisor/Partner

402-323-8141

dthompson@ufslincoln.com

Doug Thompson is a Partner with Universal Financial Strategies and a Financial Advisor with Osaic Wealth, Inc. He is a lifelong Lincoln, Nebraska resident and a graduate of the University of Nebraska. Doug and his wife,...

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Kelly Merklein

Sales Assistant

402-323-8141

402-323-8139

kellym@ufslincoln.com

Kelly Merklein is a Sales Assistant with Universal Financial Strategies. She is a graduate of Nebraska Wesleyan with a bachelor’s in accounting. She loves to travel, bike ride and all things outdoors and spend time with her...

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Sondra Hansen

Administrative Assistant

402-323-8141

402-323-8139

shansen@ufslincoln.com

Sondra Hansen is an Administrative Assistant with Universal Financial Strategies. She is a lifelong resident of Lincoln, Nebraska. Sondra and her husband, Kenny, have two grown children, Spencer and Ashley. Sondra and Kenny enjoy...
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Ashley Eastep

Receptionist

402-323-8141

402-323-8139

ashley@ufslincoln.com

Ashley Eastep is a Receptionist with Universal Financial Strategies and lifelong resident of Lincoln, Nebraska. She was a cosmetologist for 8 years & was a stay-at-home mom for the first 2 after having her son. During time off,...

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Meg Thompson

Receptionist

402-323-8141

402-323-8139

mthompson@ufslincoln.com

Meg Thompson is a receptionist with Universal Financial Strategies. Currently a student at UNL, Meg is majoring in Psychology.  She is a lifelong Lincoln, NE resident and enjoys spending time with her family.

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Bryce Williby, CFP®

Financial Advisor

402-323-8141

brycew@ufslincoln.com

Bryce joins Universal Financial Strategies with more than 20 years of experience in the insurance and financial services industry. He is a Financial Advisor with Osaic Wealth, Inc. Prior to joining the team, he spent the...

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Danni McCoy

Registered Assistant

402-323-8141

402-323-8139

dmccoy@ufslincoln.com

Danni McCoy is a Registered Assistant with Universal Financial Strategies.  She grew up in central Nebraska, but has lived with her husband, Shane, and their two children, Mikey and Miley just north of Lincoln for the last 26...

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Jack Puls

Financial Advisor

402-323-8141

402-323-8139

jackpuls@ufslincoln.com

Jack Puls, with Universal Financial Strategies, has over 5 years in the financial services industry and is a Financial Advisor with Osaic Wealth, Inc. He is a lifelong Lincoln, Nebraska resident. In his free time, Jack enjoys snow...
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Kyle Regelean

Registered Assistant

402-323-8141

402-323-8139

kyle@ufslincoln.com

Kyle is a Denver, Colorado native and has resided in Lincoln, Nebraska for the past 15 years after graduating from Nebraska Wesleyan University. He recently earned his Series 7 license and is continuing to expand his knowledge within...
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Terry Johnson

Financial Advisor

402-323-8141

402-650-8190 (voice only)

402-323-8139

tjohnson@ufslincoln.com

Terry joins Universal Financial Strategies with more than 36 years of experience in the insurance and financial services industry. He is a Financial Advisor with Osaic Wealth, Inc. Prior to joining the team, he spent the past 30 years...
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